Kids Guide NJ by Kids Guide NJ

NEW JERSEY’S GUIDE FOR KIDS, TEENS, AND FAMILIES FREE WINTER/SPRING 2014

INSIDE… 2014

Camp and School Guide

MUSEUMS, ARTS, EVENTS GUIDE ENRICHMENT, PARTY PLANNER

OUTDOORS, SPORTS, HEALTH CHILD CARE, SHOPPING & MORE

STEPPING FORWARD Counseling Center

An Innovative Mental Health Facility for Children and Young Adults

-2,1 86 )25 7+(5$3(87,& 6800(5 352*5$06 &20( /($51 3/$< :,7+ 86 We teach the mind to think The hands to work The heart to love

$ VXPPHU RI VXQ IXQ DQG IULHQGV DW RXU WKHUDSHXWLF VXPPHU FDPS $FKLHYH JRDOV FRQTXHU IHDUV EXLOG FRQILGHQFH DQG VHOI HVWHHP DQG GHYHORS DQ HQWKXVLDVP IRU OLIH ZKLOH OHDUQLQJ VRFLDO DQG HPRWLRQDO VNLOOV WKDW ZLOO ODVW D OLIHWLPH FOLHQW WR VWDII UDWLR '$< 352*5$06 $%$ &$03 7((1 352*5$06 6/((3 $:$< $// 352*5$06 $5( ,1685$1&( $33529(' { (9,'(1&( %$6(' ,17(59(17,216

,17(16( 3$57,$/ &$5( f $)7(5 6&+22/ 62&,$/ 6.,//6 f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

36<&+,$75,67 287 3$7,(17 6(59,&(6 'U 1DWDOL\D 2VPDQRYD 3V\FKLDWULVW VSHFLDOL]LQJ LQ FKLOGUHQ DGROHVFHQWV DQG IDPLO\ WUHDWPHQW IRFXVLQJ RQ PHQWDO KHDOWK QHHGV 'U 2VPDQRYD KDV D PRVW FRPSUHKHQVLYH KROLVWLF DSSURDFK WR WUHDWPHQW &DOO IRU DQ DSSRLQWPHQW

$87,60 |$%$} 62&,$/ 6.,// 352*5$0 $XWLVP |$%$} SURJUDP LV D GLYLVLRQ RI 6)&& 7KH SURJUDP RIIHUV D VWDWH RI WKH DUW HDUO\ LQWHUYHQWLRQ GD\ SURJUDP VWDUWLQJ DW PRQWKV RI DJH 6)&& SURJUDPV DOVR RIIHU |$%$} 6RFLDO 6NLOOV VWDUWLQJ DW \HDUV RI DJH 2XU &XVWRP |$%$} 3URJUDPV DUH GHVLJQHG WR VXSSRUW WKH LQGLYLGXDOL]HG QHHGV RI RXU FOLHQWV 7KH LQVWUXFWLRQDO SURFHGXUHV LPSOHPHQWHG PD\ LQ FOXGH 1DWXUDO (QYLURQPHQW 7HDFKLQJ )XQFWLRQDO 5RXWLQH 3LYRWDO 5HVSRQVH 7UDLQLQJ 9LGHR 0RGHOLQJ 3URPSWLQJ 'LVFUHWH 7ULDO ,QVWUXFWLRQV DQG 9HUEDO %HKDYLRU $SSURDFK WR /DQJXDJH ,Q DGGLWLRQ WR WKLV ZH SURYLGH JURXS DQG LQGLYLGXDO SDUHQW WUDLQLQJ 7KLV HYLGHQFH EDVHG SURJUDP LV DQ HIIHFWLYH ZD\ WR LPSURYH WKH OLIH RI FKLOGUHQ DQG WKHLU IDPLOLHV ZLWK $XWLVP

26 Main Street, Chatham, New Jersey, 07928 ~ 973-635-6550 Christine Robertello, LSCW, CEO ~ Over 20 years of experience and service

www.SteppingForwardCounselingCenter.com

ABOUT THE COVER Alexandra Papalitskas Berkeley Heights, New Jersey Many thanks to the creative teachers, students and children who submitted artwork for the Kids’ Guide cover. See more cover entries on the back of the coupon page. REWARD! ART TEACHERS, ART STUDENTS! FUTURE COVER ART WANTED! The Kids’ Guide seeks artwork by children or teens (any medium) for consideration for the front cover. High resolution JPG files are accepted. Artwork should have a vertical orientation unless it can be successfully cropped. For paper entries, size to approximately 8.5" x 14" or smaller, do not fold. Kids’ Guide will award $100 for individual artwork accepted for publication on the cover. When the cover features multiple pieces of art, each artist will receive $30 or a donation to the student organization. We cannot guarantee artwork submitted will be used. All entrants receive a certificate. Include name, age (18 and under eligible), address and phone number of artist. For return of artwork, enclose a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Schools may call (908) 665-0607 to arrange pickup. Deadline for the Summer/Fall 2014 edition is Friday, May 2, 2014.

PageWorks, LLC • Kinnect Guides P.O. Box 892 • Murray Hill, NJ 07974-0892 908.665-0607 • Fax 908.665-2052 email: kids@kidsguidenj.com • www.kidsguidenj.com Jean Flood Unger Publisher Maureen Coleman Administrative Assistant Mary Gleason Macy Advertising Sales Representative Johanna Miele Advertising Design Please note: Listings for retail and professional businesses are paid for by the business owner. All listings in the Kids’ Guide are provided for information purposes only. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by the publisher. When applicable, we encourage you to visit the facilities and programs of interest to you and your family, observe, ask questions and check references. The Kids’ Guide reserves the right to refuse advertising we deem inappropriate. While we make every effort to provide the most accurate, up-to-date information, we are not responsible for inaccuracies that may occur. We would like to correct them for the next issue, however, so please notify us by mail, email or phone if you find an error. If you know of an event, service or place that you believe should be included in the next Kids’ Guide, we would like to hear from you. Your comments and suggestions are important. Subscriptions are available for $9 for 3 issues, $3.50 each single issue. To order a subscription, mail a check along with your name, address and when you would like subscription to begin to P.O. Box 892, Murray Hill, N J 07974-0892. Community groups who would like to receive the Kids’ Guide in bulk may call 908-665-0607. To update listing information or add new listings, write, fax 908-665-2052, or e-mail kids@kidsguidenj.com. For advertising information, call 908-665-0607. © 2014 Kids’ Guide

5 ACTIVITIES

ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL PLACES

6 Historic Sites 6 Museums 14 Planetariums 22 Trains, Planes & Ships 23 Going Places–New York 25 Going Places–Pennsylvania 34 Going Places–Baltimore 38

THE ARTS Music & Dance Theatre Film & Speaker Series Storytime–Libraries

OUTDOORS

59 59 60 62 63 65 66 68 80 82 84 89

ENTERTAINMENT

90 Amusement & Water Parks 90 Outdoor Entertainment 90 Indoor Entertainment 91 Mommy & Me 93 Drop-In Creative Fun 94 Fairs & Festivals 94 Big Shows & Concerts 95 Spectator Sports 97

PARTY PLANNER Party Places Party & Special Event Entertainment Party Supplies

ENRICHMENT All Around Art Computers Cooking Crafts Dance Exchange Students Filmmaking Gardening Gifted & Talented Especially for Girls Language Legos/Robotics Music Safety Science/Technology Theatre Group & School Outreach Programs Ideal for Camps, Schools and Community Groups

98 99 101 105 106 106 107 110 110 111 111 112 112 112 112 113 114 114 115 118 119 119 125

123 126

CAMPS

127 127 127 128 128 131 131 131 131 136 136 136 137 138 138 139 136 142 142 160 144 146

Camp Fairs Academic Camps Animal Camps Art/Craft Camps Computer Camps Cooking Camps Culture Camps Day Camps Gifted Girls Camps History Camps Horseback Riding Language Music / Dance Camps Nature Performing Arts Camps Science /Tech Camps Sleepaway Camps Special Needs Camps Sports Camps Teen Camps

RECREATION & SPORTS Sports Baseball Circus Skills Fencing Fitness Golf Gymnastics Horseback Riding Martial Arts Multi Sports Paintball Rock Climbing Self Defense Skating–Indoor Ice, Inline Soccer Swimming, Water Polo Tennis Ys / JCCs/Rec Facilities/Clubs Recreation Depts. Team Sports Teen Recreation

148 148 148 148 148 149 150 150 150 150 150 151 151 151 152 152 153 153 156 157 157

COUPONS Shopping Consignment Shops Vacation Rentals Restaurants CALENDAR Calendar of Events

Enrichment 158 Recreation & Sports 158 Universal Playgrounds 160 Camps 160 Therapeutic Services 162 Specialized Services 176 Child Care 164 Education Services 184 Special Education 205, online

Adoption Foster Care Children’s Groups Health Care Facilities Health Education Museums Health Professionals

168 168 169 170 171 171

Audiology, Occupational Therapy, Pediatric Dentistry, Pediatrics, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Psychotherapy, Social Work, Speech/ Language Pathology

Hotlines / Information Lines 175 Health Services 176 Financial Assistance, Safety

Specialized Services

176

Apraxia, Arthritis, Aspergers, Attention Deficit Disorder, Autism, Cancer, Celiac Disease, Cerebral Palsy, Diabetes, Eating Disorders, Fitness, Food Allergies, Hospice, Spina Bifida, Stuttering, Tourette Syndrome

Support Groups

178

CHILD CARE

180 180 180 182 182 183

Child Care/Nanny Services Child Care Providers Drop-In/Parttime Child Care After-School Child Care Child Care Services Baby Safety

EDUCATION

184 184

Tutors, Testing, College Prep, Study Skills, Learning Disabilities Support

Schools 188 Preschool & Kindergarten 188 Student-Led Programs online Elementary & Secondary 204 Special Education online, 201 FAMILY TRAVEL Visit Family Travel online for family deals & vacation ideas www.kidsguidenj.com

PARENTS PLACE Adult Education & Enrichment Moms Groups/Playgroups

213

SERVICES

HEALTH & FAMILY

Education Services/Tutors SPECIAL NEEDS

165 167

211 207 207 208 210

ADVERTISER INDEX Index of Display Advertisers 218

W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 014 D e c e m b e r – M a y

Biking Boating, Fishing & Swimming Holes Camping Farms/Pick Your Own Hiking & More Horseback Riding Outdoor Education Centers Parks & Playgrounds Down The Shore Winter Sports Zoos

39 39 48 56 57

MARKETPLACE

Clubs Volunteer Opportunities

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

about this guide

he Kids’ Guide is a reference guide to inform and remind us of the great variety of activities, services and businesses dedicated to children and families. The guide is published twice a year for the Summer/Fall and Winter/Spring seasons. This edition of the Kids’ Guide is available free at advertisers and at libraries, schools, child care centers, real estate offices, hospitals, professional and retail businesses and select grocery stores throughout Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties in northcentral New Jersey. Communities include Summit, Chatham, Madison, Florham Park, Morristown, East Hanover, Hanover Twp., Livingston, Montclair, Millburn, Short Hills, Maplewood, South Orange, West Orange, Union, Spring field, Cranford, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, North Plainfield, Plainfield, Mountainside, New Providence, Berkeley Heights, Long Hill Twp., Watchung, Warren, Bernards Twp., Bernardsville, Martinsville, Bedminster, Chester, Bridge water, Somerville, Hillsborough, Flemington and surrounding areas. Information in the Kids’ Guide is sorted by category (see Contents on page 3). If you were interested in theatre productions, for example, refer to the “Theatre” category and you will find the calendars of area theatres. Places that offer on-going, regularly scheduled and/or advance registration or tickets for their children and family programs appear under their category rather than in the Calendar of Events, so you can view at a glance what’s happening in any given category, and plan ahead for the events of interest to you. In general, the Calendar of Events is limited to one or two-day events that are open to everyone on that day. If you are looking for an activity on a specific date, it is highly recommended that you scan other categories in addition to the Calendar. In particular, the activity categories under “Special Places,” “Outdoors,” and “The Arts,” all located at the front of the book, contain many dates of interest. Dates are highlighted in bold type throughout the book for quick reference. You can attend many events on short notice if space is still available. While we strive to be as accurate and complete as possible, late changes and additions may occur after presstime. Please call ahead to confirm dates, times and prices and to check for any new programs. And please support our fine advertisers. They are dedicated to serving our children and families and it is only through their support that the Kids’ Guide is possible. For the latest calendar updates as well as convenient links to the websites of Kids’ Guide listings and advertisers, visit Kids’ Guide online.

www.kidsguidenj.com

HISTORIC SITES

revolutionarynj.org The Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area celebrates New Jersey’s rich history and significant contributions to our nation through partnerships with preservation groups, historical societies, governments, schools, libraries and museums. The comprehensive website provides information about historic sites and upcoming events statewide. You can also subscribe to the Crossroads Gazette e-newsletter.

morris county tourism bureau 6 Court St. (across from Morris County Court House), Morristown, 973-631-5151. Open Mon.-Fri. 9-4; also open Sat. 9-12 June-Aug. Excellent one-stop source of information about destinations and events in Morris County. Brochures, maps and calendars are available. Hosts themed guided walking tours of historic Morristown, school and homeschool programs. Or download a self-guided tour online or free app, “Historic Morristown Walking Tour.” www.morristourism.org

www.visitnj.org New Jersey is filled with homes and sites of historic interest. Listings below are noted for their ongoing programs specifically geared to children and families. For a complete list of historic and other sites to visit, consult the State of New Jersey’s official website at www.visitnj.org.

Acorn Hall 68 Morris Ave., Morristown, 973-267-3465. Wed. & Thurs. 114, Sun. 1-4. Guided tours every half hour. Group tours by appointment. Adults $6, srs. $5, students $3, under 12 free. Italianate Victorian mansion, built in 1853, is the headquarters of the Morris County Historical Society. From the back of the garden, a short trail leads down to the Whippany River and to the site of a Revolutionary War gunpowder mill. On and off-site speakers and educational programs; traveling trunks available for rental. Gardens and gift shop. Selected Special Events Dec 1Victorian Christmas, visit the house decorated Jan 17 in Victorian fashion. Special events for all ages include crafts, special exhibits, treats and a visit from Santa. Jan 4 The Downtown Abbey Experience, tour and tea, 1-3pm. Call the Cosy Cupboard for reservations, 973-998-6676. $45.

Allaire Village Allaire State Park, Rt. 524 (exit 98 GSP), Wall Township. Village: 732-919-3500, Park: 732-938-2371. Historic buildings open Memorial Day-Labor Day: Wed.-Sun. 12-4; May and Labor Day-mid-Dec.: Weekends 12-4. Open special weekends Jan.-March. Admission fee to visit historic buildings on weekends May thru Nov.: Adults $3, ages 6-12 $2, 5 and under free. Parking fee: Memorial Day weekend thru Labor Day.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Kids’ ? ? ? S E S S A L EYEG Try the ONLY place that GUARANTEES eyeglasses against breakage until age 12. REC SPECS and SPORT GOGGLES Suburban Optik, Inc. 369 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights 908-464-3322 Open Tues., Wed. & Fri. 8am-5:30pm • Mon. & Thurs. 8am-8pm • Sat. 8am-3pm

www.suburbanoptik.com

Suburban Eye Institute Drs. Laura A. Lukaszek, Brenda Lynly, Brian Mackey, Optometric Physicians

908-464-0123 Living museums display artifacts from the Howell Iron Works village of 1822-1848. Costumed interpreters explain the history and demonstrate various crafts. The Pine Creek Railroad, a narrow gauge rail line operating both diesel and steam locomotives, makes a 1.5 mile loop in the park and runs 10-4:30pm weekends & holidays April-Nov. 1; weekdays July & Aug. Tickets are $4 ages 3 and over, free under 3. The Christmas Express operates weekends in late Nov.-Dec. with tickets on sale beginning Oct. 1 (732-938-5524). State park features hiking and multi-use trails, camping, nature center (staffed Memorial Day thru Labor Day) with interpretive programs (732-938-6707), picnicking, snack bar, playground, canoeing and fishing on the Manasquan River. Selected Special Events Dec 6, A Christmas Carol, 7:30-9pm performance. Dec 13 Advance tickets recommended.

Dec 7, 14, 21 Dec 8, Dec 15 Feb 16 Mar 9 Mar 23 Apr 13 Apr 19 Apr 26 May 3 May 10 May 17 May 18 May 31Jun 1

Christmas Lantern Tour, 5-8pm. 90 min. tours leave every 15 min. $12.50, advance tickets. Christmas at Allaire, 11-4. Adults $7, ages 5-12 $5. Horse and wagon ride additional. George Washington’s Birthday Celebration. St. Patrick’s Day in the 1830’s. Temperance Rally. Bee Hive Oven Baking. Easter Egg Hunt. Flea Market. Rain date April 27. Craft Market/Art in the Park. Flea Market, History Fair. Baseball Reenactment & Spring Fest. Militia Muster. Civil War Encampment.

Jun 8 Jun 14 Jun 22 Jun 28

School Days in the 1830’s & Children’s Tea Party. Flea Market, rain date June 15. Maria Allaire’s Wedding. Craft Market.

Bouman Stickney Farmstead 114 Dreahook Rd., Stanton, 908-236-2327. Open 1-4pm year round first Sun. of every month. 1741 stone Dutch House on 68 acres with outbuildings including a Revolutionary era New York Dutch barn offers traditional craft demonstrations and guided tours of buildings and grounds. Self-guided nature trail is available daily during daylight hours. Mar 2 Butter Making, 1-4pm. May 10 Barn Dance, 7-9:30pm. Oct 18 Barn Dance, 7-9:30pm.

Cooper Gristmill Black River County Park, County Rt. 513 (old Rt. 24), Chester Twp., 908-879-5463. April-June: Sat. 10-5, last tour at 3:30. July & Aug.: Wed.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5, last tour at 3:30. Sept. 3-Oct. 27 Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5, last tour at 3:30. Gristmill closed holidays. Adults $3, srs. $2, children 4-16 $1, under age 4 free. Visitors can watch the water-powered millstones grind grain into flour at a turn-of-the-century gristmill on the Black River. Different demonstrations of life in the 1800s on most Sat. and/or Sun. School programs; group tours, 973-6315343; summer day camp (see Travels in Time under Camps), 973-829-8419. Black River County Park is open for hiking sunrise to sunset daily. Selected Events May 10 Born to Be Shorn, 11-4. Watch the hand shearing of sheep and try spinning and weaving.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

historic sites Cooper Gristmill continued Home School Day Thursdays 1-3pm. $6 per student. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call for new schedule, 973-631-5343. Preregistration required.

Crane House Museum 110 Orange Rd., Montclair, 973-744-1796. Owned and operated by the Montclair Historical Society, this 1796 house was home to three generations of the Crane family, one of the founding families of Montclair. Furnished period rooms plus temporary exhibits. Adult and family programs on local history are offered periodically year-round. Open for tours and group tours by appointment. Offices and local history library at Clark House, 108 Orange Rd., is open Mon.-Fri. 9-5. Dec 7-8 Essex County Holiday House Tours, 1-4pm. Dec 15, See the Holiday Decorations, 1-4pm. Adults Dec 22 $8, children $5, max. $25 per family.

Crane-Phillips House Museum 124 N. Union Ave., Cranford, 908-276-0082. Open Sun. 2-4pm Sept.-June or by appointment. Small Victorian-style house, built in 1840 as a honeymoon cottage for Josiah Crane Jr., offers a glimpse of what life was like for a modest family during the opulent Victorian era. Antiques, Revolutionary War and Civil War artifacts, old tools and farm equipment are on display inside. School and scout tours; third grade history program; lectures and special events.

Deserted Village of Feltville/Glenside Park Glenside Ave., Union County Watchung Reservation, Berkeley Heights, 908-527-4900. Listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, this site has been a farming community, mill town, deserted village, and summer resort over the course of two centuries. Ten buildings remain and the church/store building and Maskers Barn have been restored. A 1-mile self-guided walking tour begins in the parking lot off Glenside Ave. Guided tours are offered periodically. Call for information about Operation Archaeology site, a school program for 5th grade students, 908-558-2550.

Drake House Museum 602 W. Front St., Plainfield, 908-755-5831. Open Sun. 24pm or by appointment. Beautifully restored rooms portray the farm life of the Nathanial Drake family in the 1700s and the Victorian life of New York City banker, John S. Harberger, during the late 1800s. The original 1746 farmhouse served as headquarters for George Washington during the Battle of Short Hills in 1777. Significant American paintings, folk art, period furniture and decorative pieces are on display. Group tours; Traveling Trunk exhibit available for school and community groups.

Drumthwacket 354 Stockton St., Princeton, 609-683-0057. Suggested donation $5. Tours of the official residence of the Governor are given most Wed. throughout the year (except Aug. and Dec.). Spring, summer and fall tours include the formal Italianate gardens. Reservations required, call or visit www.drumthwacket.org. Wed Guided Tours, most Wed., reservations required. Dec 4, 8, Holiday Open House, open for self-guided Dec 11 tours to view holiday decorations. 11-1:30pm.

Durand-Hedden House & Garden 523 Ridgewood Rd., Maplewood, 973-763-7712. Sept.-June: Sun. 1-4pm. Closed summer. Donations appreciated. Historic

house circa 1790 has been restored to show the continuum of its life from 1790 to 1930. Open houses are held each month with tours, children’s activities and country store. Jr. docent after-school program for members and jr. members in grades 3 & 4. School tours available. Dec 8 Gingerbread Houses & Meet Jolly Old St. Nick. Jan 26 Getting A Taste for History. Feb 23 The Maplewood Theater: The Forgotten Saga. Mar 30 Someone Must Wash the Dishes: An AntiSuffrage Satire. Apr 13 Landscaping Your Old House. May 18 The Garden State: Where Ideas Grow. Jun 8 Dining Wild: Foraging Wild Plants.

East Jersey Olde Towne Village Johnson Park, 1050 River Rd. (intersection of River Rd. & Old Hoes Lane), Piscataway, 732-745-3030. Tues.-Fri. 8:30-4:15; Sun. 1-4. Guided public tours: Tues.-Fri. & Sun. 1:30. Group tours by appointment. Podcasts available online. A collection of original, replica and reconstructed 18th and 19th century structures depict the farm and merchant communities once found in central New Jersey. Storytellers and crafts are periodically presented.

Edison National Historic Site 211 Main St. & Lakeside Ave. (exit 9 Rt. 280), West Orange, 973-736-0550 x11. Laboratory Complex: Wed.-Sun. 10-4. Glenmont: Fri.-Sun. 11:30-4. Glenmont house tours: 12-3. A car pass must be obtained at the Laboratory Visitor Center prior to going to Glenmont. House tour tickets are limited and distributed on a first come-first served basis at the Visitor Center. Entrance fee of $7 is valid for 7 days and includes Laboratory Complex and Glenmont. Ages under 16 free. Standard and family audio tours $5. Thomas Edison’s original music recording studio, private laboratory and photography studio are open for all to see, hear and experience, displaying many original furnishings and a vast collection of unique artifacts and documents. Glenmont, Edison’s home in Llewellyn Park, is open for tours Fri.-Sun. on the hour 12-3pm. A pass must be obtained from the Laboratory Visitor Center in order to enter Llewellyn Park. Download cell phone tours of Glenmont from www.nps.gov/edis. Selected Special Events Thru Holidays at Glenmont, guided tours 11-3 Fri..Jan 5 Sun. Enjoy the Edison’s festive decorations and family stories. Tickets required from Visitor Center on the day of the tour, first-come, firstserved. Jan 11 Understanding Light, children’s program. 10am. See if you can make a bulb light. Jul Camp Edison, programs for ages 8-12 feature a different theme each day. Call 973-736-0550 x89 for more info. 2013-2014 The Year of Innovation A new program theme will be featured each month. 1st Fri.: Family & general audience program, 2:30pm. 2nd Sat.: Program especially for children, 10am. 3rd Thurs.: Evening programs for adults. Dec The Tinfoil Phonograph. Dec 14: Make a Tin Foil Recording, 10am. Dec 19: Evening tours at Glenmont. 6:30 & 7:30pm. Reservations required. Jan A BIg Bonanza: Edison’s Electric Lighting System.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Feb Mar Apr May

From Menlo Park to West Orange. Ore Milling. Portland Cement. Edison in World War I.

Thomas A. Edison Center at Menlo Park 37 Christie St., Edison, 732-549-3299. Thurs.-Sat. 10- 4. No charge, suggested donation $5. Free tours during operating hours. 13-ft. replica light bulb sits atop 131-ft. Memorial Tower where over 400 patented inventions were developed including the phonograph and electric light bulb. Indoor and outdoor galleries house many inventions, interpretive exhibits and educational activities.

Samuel Fleming House 5 Bonnell St., Flemington, 908-782-4607. Open 2nd Sat. 14pm. Tours by appointment for scout and school groups. Visitors to the c. 1756 building can play with Colonial toys and games and discover Castle artifacts in a scavenger hunt. Children’s workshops and special events are held throughout the year.

Ford Mansion Washington Headquarters Museum Morristown National Historical Park Morristown National Historical Park, 30 Washington Place (exit 36 I-287), Morristown, 973-539-2016 ext. 210. Daily 95. Ford Mansion shown by guided tour on the hour 10-4 except noon. Adults $4, ages under 16 free. Mansion served as the military headquarters of General George Washington during the Continental Army’s winter encampment at Jockey Hollow in 1779-1780. A separate 1930s museum includes three exhibit galleries, 30-min. movie about Morristown during the Revolutionary War and bookstore. Junior Ranger activity booklets are available at Washington’s Headquarters or Jockey Hollow or print from online. www.nps.gov/morr Ongoing Primary Source Seminar, students have the opportunity to study historical manuscripts firsthand. Classes by appointment only. Junior Ranger Booklet, print your own online or pick one up at Visitors Center to complete activities and earn a Junior Ranger badge. Winter Ranger-Led Activities Dec 14 You, Me & Us in the Museum, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30. Jan 25 Dining with Washington, 1:15, 2:15, 3:15. Feb 16 The Making of an American Icon, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30. Feb 22 Myths of George Washington, 1:15, 2:15, 3:15. Winter of 1777, Fort Nonsense, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30.

Fosterfields 73 Kahdena Rd., off County Rt. 510 (old Rt. 24), Morristown, 973-326-7645. April-June 29: Tues.-Sat. 10-5. July-Oct. 31: Wed.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5. Adults $6, srs. $5, children 4-16 $4, ages 2- 3 $2, under 2 free. Additional fee for some special events. Memberships available. Farmers can usually be found engaged in one of their many daily chores from tending the crops to animal care on an operating farm from 1880-1910 era. Weekends feature different demonstrations of farm chores and early crafts. Guided tours of the Willows, one of New Jersey’s finest Gothic Revival restorations, are available afternoons (additional $1). Group & school tours. Travels in Time summer program for ages 10-12 (see Camps).

Selected Special Events Dec 7-8 Historic Holidays at Fosterfields, wagon ride, period holiday festivities, help with farm chores, make a holiday craft. 12-4pm. Feb 2 Winter’s Day at the Farm, harvest ice, tap trees, help with chores, ride a wagon & more. 12-4. Mar 16 Luck o’ the Irish: Farm Hands & House Maids, farm & domestic chores, Irish music, Irish jig, family-friendly craft. May 17 Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Weekend, healthy food lectures, demonstrations, fitness activities and more. 11-4.

The Hermitage 335 N. Franklin Tnpk. (GSP exit 165 to Rt. 17N), Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-8311. Guided tours Wed.-Sun. 1-4, last tour starts at 3:15. Adults $7, srs. & students $5, ages 6-12 $4. Stone house, renovated in 1847-48 in Gothic Revival design, was visited during the Revolutionary War by Washington and was the site of the marriage of Aaron Burr and Theodosia Prevost. Living history events are held throughout the year. History lecture series; birthday parties; on-site and in-class school programs; scout, after-school programs and summer history camps are offered.

Historic Cold Spring Village 720 Rt. 9 South, Cape May, 609-898-2300. During the off-season, the Village Welcome Center is open 10-4:30 weekdays and grounds are open for strolling, free admission. The Country Store is open weekends in Dec. Hours June 17Aug 31: Open 10-4:30 Tues.-Sun., select weekends in Sept. Adults $10, ages 3-12 $8, under 3 free. Combination tickets are available for Cape May Lighthouse, Hereford Lighthouse, NASW Aviation Museum or Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate. Thirty acres of shaded lanes, gardens, working farm and 26 restored historic buildings bring to life the day-to-day activities of villagers living in South Jersey during 17891840. Historically-clothed interpreters educate and entertain visitors and children can participate in hands-on crafts and games at the activity area. Download walking tour from website, www.hcsv.org. Special Events May 31- Community Open House Weekend, arts, crafts Jun 1 and antique vendors sell their wares; tours. Jun 7-8 Hands-on History, children get their “Pastports” stamped as they complete hands-on activities from the 1800s. Jun 14- Military Timeline Weekend, exhibition of Jun 15 conflicts spanning several centuries. Jun 21- Paranormal Pursuits: Spiritualism in the 1800s, Jun 22 experience the spiritual side of history. Jun 28- Cape May Quilt & Fiber Show, workshops and Jun 29 demonstrations.

Historic Speedwell Rt. 202 (333 Speedwell Ave.) at Cory Rd., Morristown, 973-285-6550. April-June.: Tues.-Sat. 10-5; July-Oct.: Wed.Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5. Adults $5, srs. $4, children 4-16 $3, 3 and under free. Restored 19th century mansion and ironworks buildings on 7.5 acres capture the daily life of the Vail family and their contributions to the American Industrial Revolution. The Factory building was the site of the first successful public demonstration of the telegraph in 1838. Group tours; scout programs; home school programs; picnic area; adult and children’s craft series; summer history camp.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

historic sites Historic Speedwell continued

Liberty Hall Museum

Selected Events Apr 2Wednesday Afternoon Wiggle Time, every Jun 11 Wednesday at 2pm, ends at 4pm. May 17 Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Weekend, healthy food lectures, demonstrations, fitness activities and more. 11-4.

1003 Morris Ave., Union, 908-527-0400. April-Dec.: Mon.-Sat. 10-4 (last tour 3:00), closed Sun. Adults $10; srs., Kean alumni $8, college students with valid ID, srs. and ages 3-17 $6; children under 3 free. Beautifully preserved estate, built in 1772 and lived in until 1995 by seven generations of the Livingston/Kean family, Liberty Hall is an intact, fully furnished home, which reflects two hundred years of New Jersey and United States history. Guided tours, formal garden, apple orchard, carriage house, ice house, firehouse and wagon shed. Picnic area and gift shop; meeting and wedding facilities; firefighter and Victorian tea parties. Group educational programs are offered Mon.-Fri. New Ursino, farm-to-table dining inspired by the Liberty Hall Estate farm. Located inside Kean University STEM Building, 1075 Morris Ave., Union, 908-249-4099. Tour and Dine experience includes walking tour and tasting menu. www.ursinorestaurant.com Wed Afternoon Tea, select Wed. from 2-4pm. $40 includes house tour. Reservations required. Dec 11, 18, 26 Selected Special Children & Family Events Dec St. Nicholas to Santa Claus, Liberty Hall is decorated to celebrate 5 different styles of Christmas all month. Dec 14, Gingerbread House Workshop, decorate your Dec 21 own gingerbread house and house tour. Recommended for ages 7-12. 10-11:30 & 121:30. $20 reservation admits one child and one adult. Additional adults $5. Dec 15 How the Grinch Stole Lunch, enjoy Grinchy grub and a tour of Liberty Hall decorated for the holidays. 11:30-1:30. Adults $25, children $20, reservations required. Dec 22 Breakfast with Santa, hot breakfast buffet, photos with Santa and house tour. Recommended for ages 7-12. 9-11 & 11:301:30. Adults $25, children $20, reservations.

Howell Living History Farm 101 Hunter Rd., Titusville (off Rt. 29 2 mi. south of Lambertville), 609-737-3299. Open Sat.: 10-4 on specified dates, with field or craft programs from 11-3. April-Nov.: Open Sun. 12-4 for self-guided tours only. Feb.-Nov.: Open Tues.-Fri. 10-4. Closed Mon., holidays and month of Jan. Free admission, materials fee for craft. A working farm for 200 years is being restored to operate like a typical family farm circa 1900. Farmstand (open Wed. & Sat. July-Oct.); group programs; Farmhands farm experience for ages 6-9 and 10-12 with adult; The Hatchery for ages 35 with adult; and summer farm camp for ages 3-15. Craft programs, which take about 20 min. to complete, are offered most Saturdays during open season from 11-3. Materials fee varies from $1-3. Groups of 8 or more must preregister. Call for date-specific craft information.

Industrial Heritage Tours Morris County Park Commission, 973-285-6534. Historians lead easy to challenging, 21⁄2-hour to full-day hikes to mines, dams, canals and other sites of significance to Morris County’s industrial heritage.

Jockey Hollow Morristown National Historical Park Tempe Wick Rd. west to Visitor Center parking, Morris Township, 973-543-4030. Visitor Center: daily 9-5. Wick House: daily 9:30-12 and 1:30-4:30. Park: daily ’til sunset. Free. Follow in the footsteps of General George Washington and his continental army during the winter of 1779-80 as you explore the forests and rolling terrain of Jockey Hollow National Park. 1750 Wick House and farm; herb garden; NJ Brigade site; 5 reconstructed soldier huts; 27 miles of hiking trails include Old Camp Road Trail (blue blazes) built by Washington’s army, the Aqueduct Trail, and yellow trail to the site of the original soldier huts and actual hearthstones that were placed by Washington’s soldiers. Trail map available at Visitor Center. Ongoing Morristown National Historical Park Junior Ranger Badge, children ages 6-12 can learn about the American Revolution at Washington’s Headquarters or Jockey Hollow, complete activity booklet and earn a Junior Ranger Badge. Call 973-539-2016 x210 for reservations for school or scout groups. Park Brochure includes trail routes, topography, photos and descriptions of the 27 miles of trails through the historic site. Winter Ranger-Led Activities Feb 22 Winter of 1777, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30 at Fort Nonsense. Feb 23 African American Patriots, discover their role in the war. 2, 3, 4pm at Wick House.

Please Note Events are subject to change or cancellation. Confirm by calling or using links at www.kidsguidenj.com

Liberty State Park 200 Morris Pesin Dr. (Exit 14C NJ Tnpk.), Jersey City, 201915-3403. Daily 6am-10pm. Exhibits at CRRNJ Terminal open Memorial Day-Labor Day 8-6, limited exhibits year ’round. Free. Statue of Liberty Ferry fees: Ages 13+ $17, srs. $14, ages 4-12 $9. As the launching point to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Liberty State Park offers dramatic waterfront views, a visitors center, interpretive center, and exhibits at the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal where about two-thirds of all immigrants boarded trains to their new homes from 1892-1954. Ferry service runs year round from Liberty State Park to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. For ferry information: 877-523-9849, www.statue cruises.com. Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island info: 212-363-3200, www.nps.gov/stli, www.nps.gov/elis. The park also features a giant playground; bike/walking paths; Liberty Walk, a 11⁄2 mile promenade along the Hudson River; dining at the marina and visitors center. Water taxis and scenic cruises leave from Liberty Landing Marina. For programs at CRRNJ, call 201-915-3412; for programs at interpretive center and outreach programs, call 201-915-3409 (both currently closed; see below). See listing under Outdoor Education Centers for interpretive center programs.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Ongoing Statue of Liberty. With the purchase of a ferry

Longstreet Farm

ticket from www.statuecruises.com, visitors can reserve a Pedestal/Museum ticket, which provides access to the statue’s pedestal observation levels and museum galleries, or Crown ticket, which provides access to both the Crown and Pedestal/Museum. Both tickets require a secondary screening. Reserved tickets are strongly recommended on weekends, holidays and May-Sept. A limited number of monument access tickets may be available daily at the ferry ticket booths. The only way to reach the crown is to climb 354 narrow steps. Children must be 4 ft. tall. Junior Ranger Program booklet available at Liberty or Ellis Island Information Centers, recommended for ages 7-12. Self-Guided Audio Tours for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum are offered in 9 languages. Children and family audio tours provide an interactive experience through the use of animal characters. Park in a Pack educational kit available “on loan” free of charge to educators for 2 week periods. Includes teaching guide, activities and 4 videos about the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for grades 4-8, 212-363-3200. American Family Immigration History Center at Ellis Island Museum and on the internet at www.ellisislandrecords.org provides advanced computer technology for geneology research. Visitors can access records of more than 22 million immigrants through 41 computer terminals. Hurricane Sandy Update The Nature Interpretive Center & Historic Terminal Building remain closed due to damage from Hurricane Sandy. Ellis Island is open on a limited basis while repairs continue and is expected to fully open in early 2014. Check New Jersey State Park website for reopening dates for the Interpretive Center and Railroad Terminal, www.njparksandforests.org

Holmdel Park, 44 Longstreet Rd. (GSP exit 114), Holmdel, 732-946-3758. Daily 10-4. Memorial Day-Labor Day: 9-5. Farmhouse open weekends and holidays 12-3:30 or by reservation. Life on a general farm in the 1890’s is recreated by costumed interpreters working in fields and buildings throughout the 9-acre site. Discovery Room at HolmesHendrickson House, built in 1754. Free weekend activities give visitors a glimpse into life during the 1890s. Park features picnic areas, snack bar, two playgrounds, walking trails and arboretum. Seasonal Highlights Summer Cultivating, some harvesting. Fall Harvesting, plowing, threshing, cider pressing. Winter Craft and cooking demonstrations. Spring Plowing, blacksmithing, sheep shearing, newborn farm animals, cooking. Selected Events Dec 21- Visit with Santa, an old-fashioned Victorian Dec 22 Christmas. 12-3pm.

Macculloch Hall 45 Macculloch Ave., Morristown, 973-538-2404. Open Wed., Thurs. & Sun. 1-4pm, last tour at 3:15pm. Garden open daily dawn to dusk. Adults $8, srs. and over 12 $6, ages 6-12 $4, ages 5 and under free. Federal-style mansion built in 1810 is furnished with fine 18th and 19th century decorative arts, a display of Thomas Nast memorabilia (the original artist to depict Santa Claus as we know him), and features changing exhibit galleries with related programs for adults and children. School tours and outreach, scout tours, adult/senior tours and rentals may be scheduled by appointment. For information about home school programs for ages 7-12 or preschool programs for ages 3-5, call 973-538-2404 ext. 16. Exhibitions Thru Controversies: The More Things Change… Jun explores local history events which had national significance. Thru Thomas Nast Brings Down Boss Tweed, 20 Aug examples of political cartoons Thomas Nast created attacking Boss Tweed & Tammany Hall.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

historic sites Selected Special Children & Family Events Thru Christmas at Macculloch Hall, see the house Jan 30 decorated for the holidays, Thomas Nast’s wellknown original Santa and Christmas images, antique toys and ornaments. Museum is closed Dec. 23-Jan. 1. Feb 17 Abraham Lincoln Remembered, family program. Three sessions available, pre-registration required.

Apr 8, May 13 Architecture: Past & Present, 4-6pm. Walking tour and building challenges meet requirements for Boy Scouts Architecture merit badge. $10 per scout, $5 per adult. Pre-register. Apr 25 Arbor Day Activities for Homeschool Families, 1-4. $15 per family. Pre-registration required. May 9 National Public Gardens Day, 2-5pm. Free, preregistration required. Growing in the Garden Preschool Program Year-round hands-on art program for ages 3-5 with caregiver includes a story, walk and art project focusing on the natural resources found in Macculloch Hall’s garden. Morning and afternoon sessions, 10:15-11 and 1:15-2. Pre-registration required, ext. 16. $12 per pair, $8 members. Jan 7 What’s the Weather? Jan 21 Pinecones with a Purpose. Feb 4 What’s the Dirt on Soil & Earthworms? Feb 18 Cardinals Can! Mar 4 Wake Up Seeds! Mar 18 Habitats High & Low. Apr 1 Lions in the Garden, April Fool–Dandelions. Apr 15 Countdown to Earth Day. May 6 Finding Ferns. May 20 Lots and Lots of Ladybugs. Jun 3 World Environment Day. Jun 17 Take Time to Smell the Roses. Spring Homeschool Series: One Life to Another Two-hr. programs suggested for ages 7-12 focus on immigration and stories about people and ethnic groups who chose to make New Jersey their home. Morning and afternoon sessions, 10-12 or 1-3. Pre-registration required by Feb. 7. $8, $30 for series by Feb. 7. 973-538-2404 x16. Feb 25 Remembering Generations Past. Mar 25 Understanding Languages. Apr 22 Viewing Identity. May 27 Celebrating Diversity.

Millbrook Village Delaware Water Gap, Old Mine Rd., 12 mi. N I-80, 908-8419531. Grounds open dawn to dusk daily. Selected buildings open weekends summer-early fall and for special events. Re-creation of a late 19th century rural community with schoolhouse, general store, woodworking shop, blacksmith shop, carriage shop, weaver’s house, church, some homes and barns. Run by Millbrook Village Society with the National Park Service. Self-guided tours, demonstrations of 19th-century folk-life skills weekends in summer.

Miller-Cory House Museum 614 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-1776. Open Sundays during school year (except holiday weekends) 2-4pm. Closed summer. Adults $3, ages 4-12 $2, under 4 free. Costumed docents guide visitors through 1740 farmhouse and skilled craftspeople demonstrate crafts and tasks of the 18th century farm family. Open hearth cooking demonstrated most Sundays (except Jan. & Feb.). Museum shop. Weekday tours

for groups available. Showcase of 18th Century Skills visits local schools. Visit website for weekend events.

Morristown National Historical Park See separate listings under Ford Mansion & Museum/ Washington’s Headquarters and Jockey Hollow.

Morven Museum & Garden 55 Stockton St., Princeton, 609-924-8144. Open Wed.-Fri. 113, tours every hour 11-2. Sat. & Sun. 12-4, tours every hour 12-3. Adults and students (appropriate for ages 8 & up) $6, srs. $5. Former New Jersey Governor’s Mansion and 18th century home of Richard Stockton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Morven now showcases fine, folk and decorative arts of New Jersey. Museum tours year round, garden tours May-Oct. Strollers are not permitted. Wed Tea & Tour, tea served at 1pm, docent-led tour can be scheduled before or after tea (not available in Dec.). Selected Exhibitions Thru Festival of Trees, thirteen galleries decorated Jan 5 for the holidays. Selected Special Events Dec 14 Morning with Santa, cookies, milk and holiday crafts. 10-11:30am. May 2-4 Morven in May, handcrafted art, heirloom perennials and annuals for sale. Jul 4 July 4th Jubilee, full day of activities.

Museum of Early Trades & Crafts Main St. at Green Village Rd., Madison, 973-377-2982. See complete listing under Museums.

New Jersey State House West State St., Trenton, 609-633-2709. Tours on the hour 103 Mon.-Fri. and 1st and 3rd Sat. of month. Free. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. Tours of the nation’s second oldest state capitol in continuous use include the restored Senate and Assembly chambers, caucus rooms and the Governor’s Reception Room. The Welcome Center, open Mon.-Fri 9-4:30, houses interactive exhibits about New Jersey history. Ongoing Free Scout Programs, tours and Make-A-Law program offered for all ages year round. Mar 1 GIrl Scout Civic Leadership Conference, handson workshops, tours, female leaders panel, designed for grades 8-12. 609-847-3150.

Old Barracks Museum Barrack St., Trenton, 609-396-1776, 609-777-3599. Daily 105. Adults $8, srs. & children 6 & over $6, 5 & under free. A registered State and National Historic Landmark built in 1758, this is the last surviving barracks built for British regulars during the French & Indian War. The barracks was also actively used in the American Revolution as a barracks and army hospital. Interpreters recount life during the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the process of historic preservation through hands-on activities in the History Lab. Group programs; youth camp-ins; private tours; summer camp. For outreach programs, call Education Dept. at 609-777-4042 or 888-227-7225. Selected Special Events Dec 26- Patriots Week in Trenton, annual battle Dec 31 re-enactment, tours and historical activities. Consult www.patriotsweek.com for schedule. Dec 28 The Battles of Trenton Reenactments, 11am, First Battle of Trenton, 3pm, Second Battle of Trenton, East State St. to Mill Hill Park.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Dec 28

Battle of Trenton Marionette Puppet Show, 12:30 & 1:30pm, E. Hanover & Warren.

Red Mill Museum Village 56 Main St. (exit 15 Rt. 78), Clinton, 908-735-4101. Nov.-Mar.: Tues.-Sat. 10-4, Sun. noon-4 in Nov. and Dec. Winter admission: $5, under 12 free. April-Oct.: Tues.-Sat. 10-4, Sun. noon-5. Adults $8, srs. $6, children 6-12 $5. 10-acre historic site features 12 structures, including the landmark Red Mill, and a permanent collection of 40,000 regional objects. Craft workshops; lectures; group programs, outreach programs; special events. Mar 29 Free Youth Art Workshop, make fabric-yarn pictures with Kimberly Cheifer of Art Journey Studio. Apr 5 Civil War Reenactment, encampments, civilians, weapon demonstrations, ladies of the era, kids activities. 10am-4pm. May 18 Storytelling Festival, professional storytellers on multiple stages, family activities. 12-4pm.

Samuel Fleming House 5 Bonnell St., Flemington, 908-782-4607. Open 2nd Sun. 14pm. Tours by appointment for scout and school groups. Visitors to the c. 1756 building can play with Colonial toys and games and discover castle artifacts in a scavenger hunt. Check website for special events.

Sterling Hill Mine Tour & Museum 30 Plant St., Ogdensburg, Sussex County, 973-209-7212. See listing under Museums.

Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms Rt. 10W & Manor Lane (3 mi. west of Rt. 287), Parsippany, 973540-0311. Open year round Thurs.-Sun. 12-4. Tours hourly 12:15-3:15. Adults $10, students/srs. $5, under 12 $4. Explore the simple life philosophy advocated by furniture manufacturer, architect, and publisher, Gustav Stickley, at his family home. Guided tours; group tours; architecture and heritage scout programs (call 973-540-0311); museum shop. Ongoing Scout Programs, tours for Cub Scouts, Daisies, Brownies and older girl scout workshops. 1st Sat Mr. Stickley’s Detectives: Time Travel Tour, 1112pm first Sat. of the month July-Dec. (except Nov. 2). Ages 6-9, accompanied by adult, use photo clues and handle objects to investigate life in the Stickley home 100 years ago. Reservations required. Selected Events SepMr. Stickley’s Style: Beauty, Simplicity & Dec Harmony, 11am on the 2nd 3rd, 4th Sat. of the month, except Sept. 21 and Nov. 23. Reservations required. Dec 1, 7, Holiday Trunk Show, finely crafted gifts for Dec 14 sale. Holidays in the Log House: Candlelight Tour, explore Christmas traditions amid period decorations. 5pm. Winter Twilight at Craftsman Farms, evening tour featuring the Log House and North Cottage. $15, dates TBA. Reservations required. Spring In Mr. Stickley’s Steps: The Craftsman Farms Walking Tour, 2 hour walking tour. 10am, dates TBA. Reservations required. May 10 Family Fun & Games Day, indoor and outdoor scavenger hunts, museum open house. 12-4.

Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum 120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. Open daily 10-5. Adults $8; srs. $6; ages 6-12 $5, 5 & under free; group rates; student rates. Recreated seaport village traces the area’s maritime history with docents and artisans bringing the village to life. Buildings include Tucker’s Island Lighthouse, a cafe, oyster house, sawmill, boat works, decoy shop, surf museum, yacht club and houseboat. Selected Special Events Dec 1Festival of Trees, 10-5.

Jan 7 Dec 27

Feb 14Feb 17 Feb 16 Apr May 18 Jun 7 Jun 21Jun 22

The Affair at Cedar Bridge, 2pm. Reenactment of the last documented land battle of the Revolutionary War at Cedar Bridge Tavern historic site, 200 Old Halfway Rd., Barnegat. Free. Cocoa Cup Open, winter mini golf tournament. 10-4pm. Victorian Tea, 12-2pm. $25, pre-register. April Arts 2014, special programs celebrate fine and folk arts throughout the month. Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival, crafters, vendors, food, family activities, boat rides. 11-5. Privateers & Pirates Festival, 11-5pm. Baymen’s Seafood & Music Festival, Jersey fresh seafood, crafters, music, family activities. 11-5.

Washington Crossing State Park 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd., Titusville, 609-7370623. Visitor Center Museum: 609-737-9303. Interpretive Center: 609-737-0609. Johnson Ferry House: 609-737-2515. Interpretive Center & historic buildings open Wed.-Sun. year ’round. George Washington and the Continental Army crossed the Delaware River and landed at this site on Dec. 25, 1776, leading to pivotal events in the American Revolution. Living history demonstrations are frequently held on weekends at Johnson Ferry House, an early 18th-century farmhouse. Outdoor education programs are offered at Interpretive Center. Hiking trails; fishing; picnic facilities; playground; group campsites; outdoor air theater; cross country skiing & snowshoeing in winter. Selected Interpretive Programs Visitors Center or Nature Center. Most programs are free, advance registration required. Visit website for calendar. May -Sep Open Air Theatre, plays, musicals and concerts for adults and children are presented by Downtown Performing Arts Center of Lambertville. Group discounts and discount ticket packages. www.DPACatOAT.org Dec 14 Holiday Wreath Making, all ages. 1-3:30pm. Advance registration required. Dec 21 The Christmas Night Crossing & The Battle of Trenton, lecture. 2pm Visitor Center. Free. Dec 25 Washington’s Christmas Crossing of the Delaware, annual reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 river crossing. 1-3.

Winakung at Waterloo Waterloo Village, Allamuchy Mountain State Park, 525 Waterloo Rd., Byram Twp., Stanhope, winakungatwaterloo@gmail.com. Recreated Lenape Village in the historic canal town of Waterloo Village is open for school trips, scout groups and summer camp field trips. Reservations are required for all tours and may be made online. www.winakungatwaterloo.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

museums blue star museums

Over 2,000 art centers, museums and exhibits nationwide offer free entrance for active duty, National Guard and Reserve military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Find participating museums at www.bluestarfam.org.

Adventure Aquarium 1 Riverside Dr. (NJ Turnpike exit 4), Camden, NJ 08103, 866451-AQUA. Daily 10-5. Adults $24.95, srs. & ages 2-12 $18.95, under 2 free. 4D Theater $3 (riders must be at least 36" tall and at least 5 yrs. old). Advance tickets available online. Aquarium exhibits include a West African River experience with hippopotamuses, crocodiles, African porcupines and fish inside a free-flight aviary; Amazon rainforest; Caribbean Currents; shark exhibit with 40-foot long walk-through tunnel; Jules Verne Gallery of deep sea exhibits; Inguza Island penguin habitat; 760,000-gallon Ocean Realm Exhibit; Stingray Beach Club; touch exhibits featuring jellyfish, lobsters, sharks, spider crabs, stingrays and other sea creatures; and interactive KidZone designed for ages 6 and under. Shows and feedings daily, live entertainment. Ongoing Aquarium Adventures, hands-on aquarium experiences include swim with the sharks, scuba dive with fish, explore hippo habitat for ages 12 yrs. and older. Call 800-616-JAWS for reservations and information. Waterfront Connection links Adventure Aquarium and Battleship New Jersey on the Camden waterfront with Philadelphia’s Penn Landing. Riverlink Ferry offers daily service May-Sept. An inexpensive connection to Philadelphia historic and cultural attractions is offered on the purple Phlash Trolley for $2. Jan 17- Frogs: Nature’s Messenger, frogs of all types, Apr 27 sizes and different colors. Spring Hippo Haven, new theatrical environment to experience a day in the life on an African river. Selected Special Events Thru Christmas Celebration, Scuba Santa, Rudolph, Jan 1 twinkling lights, dance party and more. Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Splash, family-friendly music & activities, dance party and premium views of fireworks over the Delaware at 6pm. Kids 12 & under receive a free gift.

Aljira 591 Broad St., Newark, 973-622-1600. Wed.-Fri. 12-6, Sat. 114. Contemporary visual arts center promotes the work of emerging artists.

The Center for Contemporary Art 2020 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-234-2345. Mon.-Sat. including evening hours. Open to the public free. Housed in an historic c. 1912 former schoolhouse, the Center presents exhibitions of contemporary art by emerging, mid-career and under-represented artists as well as its members. Studio classes for children, teens and adults; summer art camps; birthday parties; lectures; and community outreach programs are offered. www.ccabedminster.org

Children’s Museum of Somerset County The PeopleCare Center Multipurpose Room, 120 Finderne Ave. (parking and entrance in the rear), Bridgewater, 908595-0001. Open for scheduled themed programs designed

See frogs from around the world at the Adventure Aquarium through April.

for children ages 3-9. No charge for those in need, but suggested donation of $3 per child. Youth and youth organizations interested in helping with programs to obtain service hours should contact Tom Davidson, 908-725-4677. Ongoing Youth and youth organization volunteers needed to assist with children’s programs. 2014 Weekend Activities Jan 18 Celebrations Around the World, in celebration of Martin Luther King Day. 11-4. Feb 2 Science Magic Day, 1-4. Feb 15 Journey Back in Time: Rocks, Minerals & Dinosaurs, 10-3. Mar 2 Let’s Get Going! (Mostly Trains & Automobiles), 1-4. Mar 15 Robots!, 10-3. Mar 30 Rainforest Adventure, 1-4. Apr 12 Astronomy & Flight Day, 10-3. Apr 27 Simple Machines, 1-4.

Field Station: Dinosaurs One Dinosaur Way, Secaucus, 855-999-9010 tickets, 973748-4317 groups. See complete listing under Amusement & Water Parks or Outdoor Entertainment.

Franklin Mineral Museum 32 Evans St., Franklin, Sussex County, 973-827-3481. Open daily April-Nov. Admission fee. Educational and hands-on fun! Great for kids of all ages! Learn all about fluorescent rocks and minerals found in New Jersey’s “Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World,” view thousands of minerals and go collect your own. Put your hand into a dinosaur’s footprint and tour through a two-story mine replica. Go prospecting for fossils and gem pan for gemstones. Groups accommodated. Guided tours offered. www.franklinmineralmuseum.com

Garden State Discovery Museum 2040 Springdale Rd. (Exit 4 NJ Turnpike), Cherry Hill, 856-4241233. Mon.-Sun. 9:30-5:30, open Sat. ‘til 8:30 Oct.-April. Open Mon.-Thurs. ‘til 8:30pm during July and Aug. Admission $10.95, srs. $9.95, under 12 months free. Handson museum for infants to 10 yr. olds offers 15 larger-thanlife interactive exhibit areas. Workshops; performances; parties; teacher workshops; outreach programs.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Grounds for Sculpture 18 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, 609-586-0616. Tues.-Sun. 106. June 1-Labor Day: open Fri. & Sat. until 10pm with grounds admission $6 from 6-9pm. Adults $12, srs. $10, ages 6-17 $8, 5 & under free. A 35-acre sculpture park and museum on the site of the former New Jersey State Fairgrounds exhibits the works of emerging and well-known artists. Over 240 contemporary sculptures can be found throughout the landscaped grounds and gardens. Workshops for adults, children, families and private groups; gallery talks; poetry readings; book club; concerts and special events are scheduled throughout the year. School tours, group tours and Touch Tours for visually impaired by appointment. Gazebo Cafe (open seasonally), The Peacock Cafe and Rats, a full-service gourmet restaurant, are on-site for dining and cooking classes. Outside food is not permitted. Children must be accompanied by an adult and within reach at all times. www.groundsforsculpture.org Sat Tots on Tour, storytelling and art for ages 3-5 with adult 11am and 1pm on select Saturdays per month. No reservations, first come-first served. Free with park admission. Dec 14, Jan 11, Feb 8, Mar 8, Apr 5, May 10, Jun 14 AprWeekend Drop-in Tours, Sat. & Sun. at 11am Oct and 1pm. During summer, additional tour may be offered at 3pm. Weekday Drop-in Tours are offered May-Oct. on Tues., Thurs. and Fri. at 11 and 1pm. Meet inside Visitor’s Center. 1st Storytime in the Gallery, stories and hands-on Thurs art project on first Thurs. of the month at 10:30am Sept.-Feb. Dec 5, Jan 8, Feb 12, Mar 12 Selected Special Events Free with park admission, unless noted. Advance reservations recommended for picnic baskets from The Peacock Cafe, 609586-0616 ext. 111. Thru Holiday Tram Rides through the Twinkling Dec 28 Park, Fri. & Sat. 5-8:30pm. Winter Wonders Brunch, Sundays 11-2 at teh Peacock Cafe. Dec 14 Holiday Cookie Decorating, 2-4pm. Pre-registration required. Jan 12 Ice Sculpture Demonstrations. Feb 1 Playing with Shadows in Honor of Groundhog Day, shadow-inspired drop-in workshops (123pm, ages 6-10), park tours, musical performance. 11am-4pm. Feb 22 Tire Tread Sculpture Family Workshop, create your own mini blow-out sculptures. 11-1pm. $5 materials fee per child. Mar 15 Animated Flipbook Workshop, -24pm. $5 materials fee per child. Mar 29 Artists in Action, GFS artists open their studios, music by local artists, teaser classes. 114pm. Apr 19 Easter Egg Hunt, 2-3pm. Pre=registration required. Easter Tea Party, 4-6pm at the Peacock Cafe. Reservations required, 609-890-6015. Apr 20 Easter Brunch in Rat’s Kitchen, 11-5pm. Reservations required, 609-584-7800. Apr 27 Day at the Fair, celebrate the Ground’s roots as the site of the New Jersey State Fairgrounds with an old-fashioned country fair. 11-4pm.

Life Changes... We Can Help! NCJW Center for Women is a safe and affordable place to get the help you need.

Support Groups • Computer Classes Workshops • Legal & Financial Guidance Job Search Assistance

973.994.4994 centerforwomenNJ.org All programs nonsectarian.

70 South Orange Avenue, Suite 120 Livingston, NJ 07039

May 10 May 11

May 31

Mother’s Day Tea at the Peacock Cafe, 4-6pm. Reservations required, 609-890-6015. Mother’s Day Brunch at the Peacock Cafe, 113pm. Reservations required, 609-890-6015. Poetry in the Park: Cool Women, 1pm. Mother’s Day Brunch in Rat’s Kitchen, 11-5pm. Reservations required, 609-584-7800. Impressionist Postcards Family Workshop, 13pm. $5 materials fee per child.

Hunterdon Art Museum 7 Lower Center St., Clinton, 908-735-8415. Tues.-Sun. 11-5. Suggested admission $5. Gallery and exhibitions of contemporary art in a 19th century gristmill on the Raritan River. Exhibition-inspired workshops, events and studio classes are offered for adults and children seasonally; summer art camp; birthday parties; docent-led tours; scout programs. Open Artzone, child-friendly space on third floor is open for hands-on art projects, free. Jun-Aug Summer Art Camp.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

museums Imagine That!!! Discovery Museum for Children 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, 973-966-8000; Monmouth County, 732-706-9000. Daily 10-5:30. Adult $9.95, child $10.95. Under one year no charge. A hands-on discovery museum for children ages toddler through 10. Over 50 activities, including an authentic plane and fire truck, shadow play, pirate ship, arts and crafts, dance studio, music room, science room, multi-cultural area, grocery store, diner, pet vet area and much more! Theme birthday parties and field trips available year round. See coupon on page 211. www.imaginethatmuseum.com Selected Special Events & Craft Days Call for reservations.

Dec 14-15, Dec 21 Santa Breakfast, 10am. Snowflake Family Tree Craft, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30. $12.99/child. Dec 27 Snowman Sock Craft, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30. $13.99/child. Dec 28 Mitten Frame Craft, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30. $12.99/child. Dec 29 Snowman Sock Craft, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30. $13.99/child. Dec 30-31 New Year’s Eve Ball Craft, 10::30, 12:30, 2:03. $12.99/child. Jan 25 Princess Breakfast, 9:30am. $14.99/child, $12.99/adult. Jan 28 Mommy & Me Day, 50% off admission. Feb 8 Valentine’s Day Craft & Breakfast, $14.99/ child, $12.99/adult. Feb 17 President’s Day Log Cabin Craft, $13.99/ child. Mar 29-30 Easter Bunny Breakfast, $14.99/child, $12.99/adult. Apr 19 Celebrate Earth Day craft, $13.99/child. Apr 20 Easter Bunny Breakfast, $14.99/child, $12.99/adult. May 4 Mother’s Day Breakfast & Craft, $14.99/ child & $12.99/adult. May 5 Celebrate Cinco de Mayo!, $5 admission. May 11 Celebrate Mother’s Day!, all moms receive a special gift. Weekend Craft Calendar Dec 21-22 Design your own card to exchange. Dec 28-29 Ring in 2014 with a celebration card. Jan 4-5 Thank you cards. Jan 11-12 Mittens. Jan 18-19 Martin Luther King, Jr. “dream” picture. Jan 25-26 Snowman scavenger hunt. Feb 1-2 Groundhog Day pictures. Feb 8-9 Make a card for your Valentine. Feb 15-16 President’s Day pictures. Feb 22-23 Create your own tropical island. Mar 1-2 Read Across America Day bookmark. Mar 8-9 Decorate a kite. Mar 15-16 St. Patrick’s Day shamrock. Mar 22-23 Macaroni bracelet. Mar 29-30 Create your own Very Hungry Caterpillar. Apr 5-6 April showers umbrella. Apr 12-13 Create an Easter funny bunny. Apr 19-20 Earth Day recycled craft. Apr 26-27 Build a butterfly clothespin. May 3-4 Rock ladybug paperweight. May 10-11 Mother’s Day teapot.

Dec 26

May 17-18 May 24-25 May 31

Create a flower bouquet. Memorial Day red, white & blue painting. Seashell craft.

Insectropolis, The Bugseum of New Jersey 1761 Lakewood Rd. (Rt. 9), Toms River, 732-349-7090. Tues.Sat. 10-3. Closed Dec. 24-Jan. 1. Admission $7, ages 2 & under free. The Koerner family, owners of Ozane Termite and Pest Control, have created a unique, interactive bug museum housing thousands of pinned specimens from around the world and hundreds of live specimens. Visitors can interact with touch-screen computer games, hands-on exhibits and view exotic specimens in themed display areas. Bug store; birthday parties; overnights for scouts; group tours by appointment. Ongoing Touch Presentations, 12:30 and 2pm Tues.-Fri.; once every hour on Sat. Night Crawl, overnight for scouts ages 7-12. Jan 18, Feb 8, Mar 1, Mar 22 Scout BugOut, open 4-6pm on the third Wed. of the month Oct.-May for scouts to work toward badges. Reservations required. Dec 18, Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 19, Apr 16, May 21 Jun Annual Bugfest, cockroach races, facepainting, scavenger hunts, special guests.

Jenkinson’s Aquarium Ocean Ave. & Parkway (exit 98GSP), Point Pleasant Beach, 732-892-0600. Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-5. Summer hours: Daily 10-10. Adults $10, ages 3-12/srs. $6, 2 and under free. Group rates. Small aquarium on the boardwalk features tropical fish, alligators, penguins, seals, sharks, rays and touch tank. Outreach programs; workshops; behind-thescenes tours; Junior Keepers program; birthday parties.

Kidsbridge Tolerance Museum The College of New Jersey, Ewing Twp., 609-581-0239. Open to groups only, by appointment. Learning lab on the campus of The College of New Jersey features “Face to Face: Dealing with Prejudice and Discrimination,” an exhibit created by the Chicago Children’s Museum that focuses on diversity appreciation and tolerance. Visits can include a tour of the college campus. Pre- and post-curriculum materials available.

Liberty Science Center 251 Phillip St. (Exit 14C or 14B NJ Turnpike), Liberty State Park, Jersey City, 201-200-1000, 201-451-0006. Mon.-Fri. 94, weekends 9-5:30. Exhibit only admission: adults $19.75; juniors 2-12 $14.75; srs. $16.75; under 2 free. Combination tickets available for exhibits, IMAX Dome and 3-D Theater. Teacher and member discounts and community days available. Traveling science show for schools; scout programs; birthday parties; overnight group camp-ins (recommended for grades 1-8). Interactive science and technology exhibitions include Skyscraper! featuring artifacts from the World Trade Center, a walk along an I-Beam two stories above the exhibition floor and an earthquake shake table; Eat & Be Eaten where live animals are used to explore how they catch prey and avoid being caught; Communication traces the growth of the human exchange of ideas; Infection Connection helps visitors understand germs, viruses, parasites and other life forms; Our Hudson Home explores the Hudson River; Energy Quest takes visitors on a journey through the major sources of earth’s energy; and I Explore is an age-restricted exploration area for children under 6 yrs. old and their care-

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

There is a 1 in 5 chance that your teen will develop hearing loss. It can be prevented. Lower the volume.

goitold4@gmail.com

givers. Other interactive experiences include a rock climbing wall, digital darkroom and outdoor climbing exhibit. Live science demonstrations are scheduled daily with additional special events on weekends. IMAX films are not suitable for children under 6. Ongoing Give Me Liberty! Combo Pass. Visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Liberty Science Center for $25 adults, $15 children, good for seven days from date of purchase. Activities for Families with Young Learners, include I Explore exhibition for ages 2-5; We Explore science demonstrations and hands-on activities; kids’ cinema; and story time. Dec 21- Twelve Days of Science, activities, events, Jan 1 movies & more for ages 3 & up. Selected Special Exhibitions Thru The Polar Express: An Imax Experience.

Dec 30 Thru Jan 12 Thru Mar 2

Bob the Builder, Project: Build It! kids can build, fix, plant and improve Sunflower Valley. Gridiron Glory, combines football sports, history, culture and more in time for 2014 Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium.

Monmouth Museum On the Brookdale Community College Campus (GSP exit 109 to Newman Springs Rd. to Parking Lot #1), Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732-747-2266. Tues.-Sat. 10-5; Fri. 10-9; Sun. 125. Admission $7, under 2 free. The Becker Children’s Wing features changing exhibitions that offer interactive learning experiences geared to elementary school age children. Fees and hours vary depending on current exhibit. Call for hours for Wonder Wing, a creative play environment with an undersea theme for children 6 and under. Birthday party room. MMKIDS Children’s Programs Tues Discover Series, ages 7+. Tuesdays at 3pm. MMKIDS Family Friendly Planetarium Shows, Tues. & Thurs. at 4pm. $1 with admission. Wed Exploration Series, ages 7+. Wed. at 2pm. Green Art Hour, all ages. Wed. at 4pm. MMKIDS Movies, Wed. at 3pm, Fri. at 7pm. Thurs Math Monsters, ages 4-6. Thurs. at 1pm. MMKIDS Family Friendly Planetarium Shows, Tues. & Thurs. at 4pm. $1 with admission.

Fri

MMKIDS Story Time, preschool storytime Fridays at 10:30am. MMKIDS Craft Time, preschool craft with a new theme each week, Fridays at 11am. MMKIDS Twinkle Tots Planetarium Show, StarLab show for preschoolers Fridays at 2pm. MMKIDS Movies, Wed. at 3pm, Fri. at 7pm. Free popcorn served Fri. evenings. Sat, Sun MMKIDS Storytime & Craft, weekends at 12:30pm. MMKIDS Family Friendly Planetarium Shows, Sat. & Sun. at 1:30 & 3pm. $1 with admission. Becker Children’s Wing Exhibition Designed for school-age children. Hours vary Tues.-Thurs. 25, Fri. 2-9, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5, call ahead to confirm. StarLab Shows: Twinkle Tots program Fri. at 2; shows Sat.-Sun. at 1:30 & 3. Admission $7, $8 with StarLab show. Birthday parties; group sleepovers; group tours available. Open Ancients to Astronauts: How We Communicate, includes hands-on, interactive displays and activities on different topics: Changing Climate: Changing Weather; Ancient Egypt; Explore Space includes StarLab Planetarium; and Green Arts Studio features craft activities. Selected Exhibitions Thru Artists Celebrate the Holidays, from traditional Jan 5 to contemporary. Special holiday programs and events will be scheduled throughout Dec. Selected Special Events Thru Holiday Gift Gallery, handcrafted gift items Jan 12 created by local artists. Jan 15- Chairish the Museum: Artful Furniture & AccesFeb 9 sories Exhibition & Silent Auction Benefit, old chairs & decorative items transformed by local artists are on display. Silent auction finale on Feb. 9 from 4-5:30pm. Mar 30 Teddy Bear Tea, ages 3-8, parents and grandparents. Music, dancing, Teddy Bear parade, lesson on manners, gourmet treats. 2pm, Navesink Country Club.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

museums Montclair Art Museum 3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair, 973-746-5555. Wed.Sun. 12-5pm. Adults $12, srs./students with ID $10, members and under 12 free. Admission is free 5-9pm the first Thursday Oct.-June and 12-5pm the first Friday of the month. Strollers permitted; changing table. Permanent collection dedicated solely to American and Native American art encompasses painting, works on paper, photography, and sculpture by American artists from the 18th-century to the present, as well as traditional and contemporary Native American art. Studio art classes for adults and children (973-259-5139), teacher training workshops, gallery talks and tours, summer art camp, special family events, birthday parties. Ongoing Cell Phone Audio Tours; Family Gallery Guides. MAM Family Learning Lab, drop in for selfguided family art activities on the 3rd floor. 2nd Wed MAM Park Bench, 9:30-11:30am on the second Wednesday. Bring your stroller inside for an artistic social outing for adults with young children. Art projects for children, guided tours and storytelling. Program themes are posted online. Family $18, member family $6. 3rd Thurs Home School Day, gallery tour and art project for ages 9-13. 12-2pm. Family $18, member family $6. Register online or call 973-259-5137. 3rd Fri Home School Day, gallery tour and art project for ages 4-8. 12-2pm. Family $18, member family $6. Register online or call 973-259-5137. Selected Exhibitions Thru Looking Forward: Gifts of Contemporary Art Jan 15 from the Patricia A. Bell Collection. Jan 15- 100 Works for 100 Years: A Centennial CeleJul 31 bration. Feb 22- Robert Smithson’s New Jersey, a pioneer of Jun 22 earthworks and native son of New Jersey. Selected Special Events Feb 1 Free Family Day, a day of art activities. 1-5pm.

Morris Museum 6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3700. Tues.Sat. 11-5, Sun. 12-5. Open to 8pm on 2nd and 3rd Thurs. of the month. Adults $10, srs./children $7, members & under 3 free. Pay-what-you-wish admission 4-8pm on 2nd and 3rd Thurs. Permanent exhibits include galleries devoted to Native American history and crafts; antique dolls, toys and dollhouses; natural science with mounted mammal specimens; rocks & minerals; dinosaurs and fossils; model train exhibit. Adult art workshops, speakers and trips; children’s art workshops and drop-in programs; scout and group programs; summer art, science and theatre day camps; school outreach; portable planetarium; school loan program. See Theatre for Bickford Theatre main stage and children’s theatre and Music & Dance for jazz series. Selected Exhibitions Ongoing Musical Machines & Living Dolls: The Murtogh D. Guinness Collection, permanent exhibition of over 150 mechanical musical instruments & automata. Live demonstrations 2pm Tues.-Sun. Thru When Sandy Hit: The Storm That Forever Jan 20 Changed New Jersey, the work of Star Ledger photographers. Dec 13- Mega Model Trains, train display, puzzle staJan 26 tions, dollhouse displays, holiday tree display.

Thru Mar 9 Thru Mar 30 Jan 30Apr 20 Thru Jul 13

The Brick Art of Nathan Saway, large scale LEGO sculptures of Nathan Sawaya. Beards: The Long & Short of It, explores men’s facial hair trends. The Art, Science & Culture of Eggs, hands-on activities unscramble the marvels of eggs. Nano: The Science of the Super Small, explore nanoscale science and technology. Ongoing Programs for Children & Families Adults must accompany children, registration not required for the activities listed below, unless noted. Fri Tot Tours, mini-gallery tour and art project for ages 2-5 and caregiver monthly on select Fri. at 10am. Free with admission. Dec 13: Trains. Jan 17: The Brick Art of Nathan Sawaya. Feb 21: Egg-Zibit: The Art, Science & Culture of Eggs. Sat Super Science Saturdays, hands-on science workshops monthly for ages 5 and up. 122pm. $3/child plus admission, members free. Dec 7: Liquid Densities. Jan 4: Pennies. Feb 15: Chromatography. Selected Special Family Events & Children’s Vacation Day Workshops For workshop information, call 973-971-3718 or email programs@morrismuseum.org. Adults must accompany children. Workshops are $3/child, $2/member child. Dec 27 Toyland Family Festival, 11-4. Family crafts, activities, Yo-Yo People performance at 11:30 & 1pm. Dec 28 Gingerbread Decoration, 12-2pm. Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Noisemaker, 12-2pm. Jan-Mar Studio Art Courses, for children, teens and adults. Weekend, after school classes and oneday workshops. Call 973-971-3740 or email studioart@morrismuseum.org for info. Jan 20 Make a Symbolic Peace Dove, 12-2pm. Feb 8 Chocolate Festival, 11-4. Chocolaty crafts, activities, The Chocolate War performance at 11:30 & 1pm. Feb 17 Presidential Bingo, Make a Patriotic Bracelet, 12-2pm. Mar 1 Dr. Seuss Family Festival, 11-4. Mar 22 Astro Day, 11-4. Apr 29 Dino Day, 11-4. Building Blocks Family Workshops LEGO community architectural workshops led by Stephen W. Schwartz, AIA, Architect. 9-11am. $40 per family (up to 4 members). Call 973-971-3706 to register. Jan 11 Windmills & Wind Power. Jan 25 Build Historic Morristown. LEGO Building Workshops Ages 6 & up build LEGOs. 10-11 or 11:30-12:30pm. $8, $6 members. Materials list provided with registration. Call 973-971-3706 to register. Jan 18 Build a Catapult. Feb 22 Piece by Piece Mosaic.

Museum of Early Trades & Crafts Main St. at Green Village Rd., Madison, 973-377-2982. Tues.Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-5, closed Mon. and major holidays. Closed Sun. and Mon. during July & Aug. Adults $5; ages 6-17 and srs. $3; members and under 6, free; family maximum $13.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Drawing on its collection of over 8,000 hand tools and their products, the museum, listed on the National Register of Historic places, interprets what life was like for a 19th century farm family and craftspeople who lived and worked in Madison before the rise of large-scale industrialization. Changing exhibits; family workshops; gallery talks; drop-in activities; children’s discovery space. On-site and outreach youth group programs; preschool and young children’s group programs; playgroup programs; scout badges; school programs pre-K to grade 8; summer history camp. 2nd Sat Family Fun Days, drop in between 1-3pm on the second Sat. of the month for family fun and craft activity. Museum admission, advance registration recommended. Dec 14, Jan 11, Feb 8, Mar 8, Apr 12, May 10, Jun 14, Jul 12 Time 4 Tykes Museum activities may include games, craft, snacks designed especially for ages 2-6. $3 participants. Space is limited, pre-registration recommended, 973-377-2982 x12. Feb 13 Groundhog Shadow Prediction, 3-4pm. Feb 28 Widget’s Birthday Party, 4-5pm. Apr 1-2 Stuffed Animal Sleepover, bring your stuffed animal for snack and storytime, tuck them in, then return to see what mischief occurred. Jun 13 Friday the Thirteenth, 3:45-5pm. Aug 29 ABCs of Kindergarten, 11am. Nov 14 Teddy Bear Picnic, 4-5pm. Selected Family & Adult Events Advance registration recommended for most programs. Participant fee for some activities. Jan 5 Harp Ensemble Concert, 2pm. Mar 2 Read Across America, bring your favorite book, storytime, puppets. 1-3pm. Mar 15 Lucky Leprechaun Day, ages 5-10. Irish history, crafts, activities, refreshments. Apr 27 Cook Like a Soldier, learn about soldier’s diet during Revolutionary War. 2pm. Jun 13 Reeds, Rhythms & All That Brass, free familyfriendly Downtown Concert Series on the lawn. 6-8pm. Jul 11 Folk Violinist David Rimelis, free family-friendly Downtown Concert Series on the lawn. 6-8pm.

Newark Museum 49 Washington St. (24/78 to Newark exit for Rt. 21N, left on Raymond Blvd., right on Washington St.), Newark, 973596-6550. Jr. Museum: 973-596-6616. 24-hr sky report & program info: 973-596-6529. Wed.-Fri. noon to 5. Oct. 1-June 30: Sat. & Sun. 10-5; July 1-Sept. 30: Sat. & Sun. 12-5. Suggested admission: Adults $12, children, srs. students with valid ID $7, members & Newark residents free. The state’s largest museum features 80 galleries exhibiting American art; decorative arts and the magnificent 1885 Ballantine House, a restored National Historic Landmark; arts of Africa, the Americas and the Pacific; classical art; the arts of Asia; numismatics; and natural science collection. Grounds contain 1794 schoolhouse and Newark Fire Museum. Junior Gallery, mini-zoo, family theater and planetarium. Attended parking in adjacent lot at corner of University & Central Aves. Year-round fine arts and crafts workshops for adults and children, summer Camp Junior Museum for ages 3-13 (973-596-6637). Adult gallery tours daily, reserved group gallery/planetarium and outreach programs; scout programs. See listing under Planetariums for more information.

Thousands of Wonderful Gently Used Books! ALL TYPES of books: fiction, non-fiction, textbooks, children's books, best sellers, mysteries, romance, self help, art, health and much more

Hundreds of authors Gently used — all wonderful books! Hard covers and paperbacks

Volume discounts Paperbacks: 50¢ each, 3 for $1; 20 for $6; 50 for $12; 100 for $20; Hardcovers: $1 each; 3 for $2; 10 for $5; 50 for $20; 100 for $35

marym227@comcast.net or 908-464-3485 Selected Exhibitions Ongoing Dynamic Earth: Revealing Nature’s Secrets, natural science galleries include hands-on exhibits and activities. Tibet Information Zone, interactive Tibetan art gallery provides hands-on learning experiences about Tibetan culture. Fire Escapes: Danger & Survival, interactive exhibit at the refurbished Newark Fire Museum includes exhibits, films and displays in a replica burned-out house to reinforce safety education for children and their families. Look / Touch/ Learn: Nature & Art, cozy handson art exploration area in American Art Galleries, First Floor North Wing. Generation Fit: Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle, interactive family exhibition explores and addresses the issues of nutrition, exercise and related disease prevention. Thru EmPOWERED: Your Renewable Energy Future, Apr ’14 interactive exhibit showcases advanced energy technologies and demystifies the science behind generating electricity. emPowered weekend activities, 1-4pm. Jan Wind Power. Feb Solar Power. Mar Water Power. Jan 8City of Silver & Gold from Tiffany to Cartier, Mar 30 featuring the original Vince Lombardi Trophy produced in Newark. Feb 28- American Chronicles: The Art of Norman May 26 Rockwell. Adults $15, srs./students $10, Newark residents $5, members free. School Year Programs Sept.–June Sat & Drop-In Activities, themed gallery explorations Sun and art activities begin at 1, 2 & 3pm. 1-4pm. Planetarium Shows, see Dreyfuss Planetarium. Gallery Adventure Packs, pick one up for a scavenger hunt in the galleries. Free, ages 6+. Gallery Gear, games, activities and surprises for ages 4-8 to explore the galleries. $2. Sat Super Saturdays, curiosity carts and D.I.G. (Discover, Invent, Grow) Lab 1-4pm on the 3rd Sat. of the month.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

museums Newark Museum continued

Ongoing New Jersey’s Original People: Interpreting the

Selected Special Events DecFeasting with Family & Friends: Christmas in Jan the Ballantine House, the historic home is decorated for the holidays in 1881. Dec 27- Holiday Fun Days, kids activities, gallery tours, Dec 28 planetarium shows. Fri.: The Lion’s Whiskers by Catskill Puppet Theater 2pm. Sat.: Share the Kwanzaa Spirit, African Dance Company 2pm. Jan 20 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, 12-4:30.

Archaeological Collection, the museum’s newest permanent exhibit. Natural History Highlights, a sampling of many of the most impressive, most popular specimens in the Natural History collections. Pretty Big Things: Stories of New Jersey History, some of the biggest artifacts from the museum’s collection and hands-on activities. Remember 9.11, Reflections & Memories from New Jersey, artifacts and oral histories of families, survivors, rescue workers and volunteers. Selected Special Events Dec 19, Storytime: Over & Under the Snow, 2pm, 1st Dec 21 Floor, Natural History Highlights. Winter animals; winter craft. Dec 24- Planetarium Presentation, includes a demonDec 29 stration of the sky set to Dec. 25, 1776, when Washington crossed the Delaware. Closed Dec. 25. Dec 27 Patriots Week: Civil War Flags Unveiling, 12-1. Dec 28 Colonial America Activity Cart, 11-3. Living History: Edward “Ned” Hector, Black Patriot of the American Revolution, 2pm. Dec 29 Colonial America Activity Cart, 11-3. Exhibition Tour: Where in the World is New Jersey? Historical Maps, 2pm. Dec 31 Exhibition Tour: New Jersey’s Original People, 11am. Jan 11- Story Time: Snowflake Bentley, 2pm, 1st Floor, Jan 12 Natural History Highlights. How to photograph snowflakes for study; snowflake craft. Feb 15- Story Time: Owl Moon, 2pm, 1st Floor, Natural Feb 16 History Highlights. Observing nature; owl craft. Apr 12 Fine Art–Slow Art Day, discover the joy of looking at and loving art. May 3 34th Annual Super Science Saturday, free, funfilled day of hands-on activities and entertainment for the whole family. Merit Badge Days Professional geologists and archaeologists on hand, bring collections for identification. $5, advance registration required, open to scouts & non-scouts. Apr 5 Merit Badge Day: Geology, 1pm. Apr 12 Merit Badge Day: Archaeology, 1pm. Apr 5, 12 Merit Badge Day: Astronomy, 10am. Learn how to read a star map, find constellations, locate stars, more. Jun 30- Summer Explorers, programs for visiting sumAug 29 mer camps include planetarium shows, theatre performances, enrichment programs, and gallery tours. Call 609-292-6347 for info.

New Jersey Children’s Museum 599 Valley Health Plaza (Exit 165 GSP), Paramus, 201-2625151. Tues.-Fri. 10-5, weekends 10-6, closed Monday (call for Monday hours). Adults $9.99, children $11.99, under 1 free. Play and learning center for preschoolers and toddlers features a real fire engine, helicopter and backhoe; dress-up ballet studio; castle and hospital; toddler grocery & pizzeria; science exhibits; and sand and water play. No strollers or food allowed; snuglis are usually available. Museum may be very busy until 12:30pm as groups visit in the morning. Daily Special Events include crafts, stories and skits.

New Jersey Historical Society Essex Club, 52 Park Place, Newark, 973-596-8500. Tues.-Sat. 10-5. Library open Wed., Thurs., Sat. 12-5. Adults $3, library admission $5. Families can explore New Jersey’s history through interactive exhibitions and research local history and family geneology through the society’s extensive archives, library and useful website. Sat. family programs, adult workshops and lectures, education programs offered for schools and groups.

New Jersey State Museum 205 West State St., Trenton, 609-292-6464 (recorded information), 609-292-6308 (weekdays only). Tues.-Sun. 9-4:45. Closed Mondays and state holidays. Suggested admission: Adults $5, srs./students $4, ages 12 & under free.. A four-inone museum offers distinct sections uniquely devoted to New Jersey’s archaeology/ethnology, cultural history, fine art, and natural history in a modern main building overlooking the Delaware River. Entertaining and educational programs are offered in a state-of-the-art 150-seat planetarium and adjacent 400-seat auditorium. For a schedule of family and student programs and teacher workshops and information on scout merit badge days (it is not necessary to be a scout to enroll), visit the Museum’s website. For planetarium information, see listing under Planetariums. www.newjerseystatemuseum.org Ongoing Food for Thought Gallery Talk, adult tour of a current exhibition with museum curator. Free, no reservations required. Activity Carts & Family Events, stop by special carts for in-gallery activities and visit the information desk upon arrival for scavenger hunts and a schedule of gallery activities. Performances and demonstrations are offered on select weekends. Paleontology Field School, join museum paleontologists on a summer expedition to Montana and Wyoming; adults & ages 14+. Selected Exhibitions Mar 15- Drawn to Dinosaurs: Hadrosaurus foulkii, Jan 3 ‘15 meet Haddy, the world’s first mounted dinosaur skeleton uncovered in a marl pit on a Haddonfield farm in 1838.

Pierro Gallery of South Orange The Baird, 5 Mead St., South Orange, 973-378-7754. Fri.-Sun. 1-4 or by appointment. Free. Contemporary art gallery exhibits regional, national and international artists with special interest in supporting emerging artists. Exhibitions change approx. every six weeks. Group tours and scout programs. www.pierrogallery.org

Princeton University Art Museum McCormick Hall, center of campus, Princeton, 609-258-3788. Tues.-Sat. 10-5, Thurs. 10-10, Sun. 1-5. Closed Mon. and major holidays. No charge. Permanent collections range from ancient to contemporary art. Group tours for pre-

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

school-high school students can be arranged. Gallery talks; films; concerts; museum shop. Ongoing Passport to Adventure, pick up an activity guide at the Museum information desk for self-guided tours and family activities. Sat Art for Families: Art Safari, drop-in anytime 10:30-1 for self-guided, interactive tour and related art project. New theme each week. Sat & Highlights Tour, meet at the entrance every Sun Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Free. Selected Exhibitions Thru The Itinerant Languages of Photography.

Jan 19 Thru Jan 4 Jan 25May 11 Feb 8Jun 8 Jun 28Sep 21

New Jersey as Non-Site, innovative artists and New Jersey as subject, 1950-1975. 500 Years of Italian Master Drawings from the Princeton University Art Museum. Edvard Munch: Symbolism & Print. Lee Bontecou: Drawn Worlds, sculpture.

Rutgers University Geology Museum Geology Hall, Old Queens Section, College Ave. Campus, 85 Somerset St., New Brunswick, 732-932-7243. Tues.-Thurs. 10-6, Fri. 10-4, Sat. 10-2. Free. Exhibits on geology and anthropology, with an emphasis on the natural history of New Jersey, include a dinosaur trackway from Towaco; a mastodon from Salem County; mineral exhibits featuring the zeolite minerals of Paterson; and the zinc minerals of Franklin. Group tours; birthday parties; geology field trips; small rock shop. 1st Wed Late Nights at the Museum, activity stations for children and adults from 4-8pm the first Wed. of the month. Jan 25 Annual Open House, lectures, mineral sale, rock and mineral identification, make and take stations for all ages, hands-on activities for ages 8+.

Sterling Hill Mine Tour & Museum 30 Plant St., Ogdensburg, Sussex County, 973-209-6463. See website for current hours of operation, tour schedules and special events. Adults $11, seniors $10, ages 4-12 $8, ages 3 and under free. Group discounts with advance notice. Come take a 1⁄4-mile walking adventure into the fourth oldest mine in the country and the last working underground mine in New Jersey. The tour takes two hours and includes a tour of the mine, the Warren Museum of Fluorescence and the 5,000 sq. ft. Mining Exhibit Hall. Also available are Rock & Fossil Discovery Centers and an on-site observatory. You can purchase or collect minerals yourself any day the museum is open. Collecting for adults and children ages 7 and up is $5 plus $1.50 per pound. Ongoing Mine Run Dump, open to adults and children ages 7 and up for rock and mineral collecting. $5 plus $1.50 per pound.

Vietnam Era Educational Center Garden State Parkway, Exit 116, Homdel, 800-648-VETS, 732-335-0033. Tues.-Sat. 10am-4pm. Adults $5, srs./students $3, veterans and under 10 free. The story of the Vietnam era is told through photographs, timelines, films, interactive displays, personal letters and artifacts. The New Jersey Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial is nearby featuring a circular black wall engraved with the names of more than 1,000 New Jersey

soldiers who lost their lives in the war. Guided tours available for groups of 10 or more.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey 68 Elm St., Summit, 908-273-9121. Mon.-Wed. & Fri. 10-5, Thurs. 10-8, Sat. & Sun. 11-4. Suggested donation: Adults $5, children/srs. $3. Docent tours available for school, family and community groups. www.artcenternj.org Contemporary art exhibitions change every four to six weeks. Adult lecture series; classes for all ages and abilities; birthday parties; kids’ & teens’ art camp.

Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center Montclair State University, 8 Quarry Rd., Little Falls, 973-6552378. Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm. Closed major holidays. Adults $6, srs. $5, students under 18 $4. Artifacts from the life of the legendary catcher, exhibits on the history of the Yankees, Yankee Stadium, baseball in New Jersey, baseball equipment and baseball during World War II. Guest speakers; book signings; group and school tours; on- and off-site sports parenting and coaching seminars; sports leadership workshops; afterschool programs; baseball clinics; baseball/softball and sports broadcasting summer camps. Opens Hometown Teams: How Sports Shape America, Jan traveling exhibit in time for the Super Bowl. Feb 9Jerry Winick Sports Art Drawing Class, for ages Mar 9 7-12 Sun. 1-2:30pm.

Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University Rutgers University (Tnpk. exit 9 to Rt. 18N), George and Hamilton Sts., New Brunswick, 848-932-7237. Tues.-Fri. 104:30pm. Weekends noon-5pm. Closed Mon. Closed Aug. and major holidays. Adults $6, srs. $5, under 18 free. Free admission 1st Sun. of month. One of the largest university art museums in the country features strong collections of Russian art, French, Belgian and American graphic arts and Japonisme (Western art influenced by Japan). Of particular interest to families and children is the Rutgers Collection of Original Illustrations for Children’s Literature which documents the process of creating a book for children. Group tours; outreach program to local schools; after-school drawing club; workshops for teachers; adult and children’s education; high school volunteer program; summer art camp for ages 7-14; Z Cafe. Ongoing ZAMbassadors for Teens, motivated high school students in grades 10-12 are trained to become junior volunteers. Email info@ zimmerli.rutgers.edu. 1st Sun Free First Sundays, free day of admission, 125. One hour tour begins in lobby at 2pm; Family Guide available 12:30-4pm; Studio Z learning center is open. Jan 5, Feb 2, Mar 2, Apr 6, May 4, Jun 1, Jul 6 3rd Sun Films About Art & Artists, 3-4pm third Sun. Appropriate for teens and up. Wed Drawing Club for Children & Young People, 5 week sessions for ages 6-14 meet 4:15-5:45 during fall and spring. $50 members, $75 nonmembers. Jan 29-Feb 26 Ages 6-8. Mar 5-Apr 2 Ages 9-14. 1st Wed, Insights: Gallery Talks, curator- or docent-led 2nd Sun tour of select artworks each month. Wed. 67pm, Sun. 2-3pm. Free.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

museums Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers continued

Longo Planetarium

Sat

ZAM Session for Teens & Young Adults, program for aspiring and accomplished artists to draw from works in the collection or on Rutgers campus. Sat. 3-4:30pm. Feb 8, 22, Mar 8, 22, Apr 5, 19 Open Studio Z: The Adi Blum Learning Center, selfguided activities for the whole family during regular museum hours. Selected Exhibitions Ongoing The Dodge Collection of Nonconformist Art from the Soviet Union, 1956-1986, the world’s largest collection of its kind. Thru Maples in the Mist: Chinese Poems for Children Jun 22 Illustrated by Jean & Mou-sien Tseng. Thru Diane Burko: Glacial Perspectives, photographs Jul 31 and sketches. Thru George Segal., sculpture.

County College of Morris, Cohen Hall, B building, 214 Center Grove Rd., Randolph, 973-328-5076. Planetarium programs are presented to school groups during the week and to the public on select weekends. Call or visit website for upcoming programs, www.ccm.edu/planetarium.

Dec 31

205 West State St., Trenton, 609-292-6464. Weekend shows at 1, 2, 3 & 4pm. Adults $7, 12 and under $5, available on first-come, first-served basis. 150-seat planetarium with high definition and Full Dome Video technology is open for public programs, school programs and scouting astronomy programs. Planetarium lobby includes interactive exhibits providing the latest astronomical information. Dec 1-31 Holiday Laser Spectacular, all ages. Sat. & Sun. 12, 1, 2 & 3pm. Dec. 17-21 11 & 1pm.

Selected Special Events Mar Celebration of Storytelling, free week-long performances by nationally acclaimed storytellers. Apr 26 Rutgers Day, 10-4pm. Free tours and familyfriendly activities throughout the day. Jun-Jul Summer Art Camp, weekly sessions for ages 7-14.

Watchung Arts Center 18 Stirling Rd., Watchung Circle, Watchung, 908753-0190. Tues.-Fri. 12-5, Sat. 10-3. Non-profit, volunteer-run center offers new art exhibitions each month, performances and classes. www.watchungarts.org

William D. McDowell Observatory Meadowlands Environment Center, Two Dekorte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst, 201-460-8300. Open telescope viewing nights and astronomy workshops held throughout the year. Mon Public Viewing Nights, for all ages, weather & Wed permitting. Free, limited space.

Morris Museum Astronomical Society 973-631-0178, www.mmastrosociety.org. Meets at the Morris Museum on the second Thursday of every month at 7:30pm. Membership is open to ages 14 and older.

New Jersey State Museum Planetarium

Dec 24, 26, 27

Dec 28Dec 29

PLANETARIUMS Dreyfuss Planetarium Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., Newark, 973-596-6529 for schedules. Press 2 for weekly update on the night sky, sunrise, sunset and moon phase information. 24-hr. Sky Report: 973-596-6611. For the latest dates to see the space station and other satellites, visit www.heavens-above.com or link to it from www.newarkmuseum.org. Wed.-Fri. shows at 2pm, Sat. & Sun. shows on the hour from 1-4pm. Adults $5, children under 12 /srs./ college students $3, not recommended for children under 4. Tickets available at the Information Desk when the museum opens on a first come, first served basis. Strollers are not permitted and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Planetarium shows are followed by a tour of the constellations and information on how to view the planets. Sphæra portable planetarium outreach program, 973-596-6690. Thru Extreme Planets, adults & ages 10 & up. Wed.Dec 22 Fri. 2pm, Sat. & Sun. 2 & 4pm. Zula Patrol: Under the Weather, ages 6-9. Sat. & Sun. 1pm. Season of Lights, adults & ages 6 & up. Sat. & Sun. 3pm. Dec 26- Zula Patrol, 1pm; Extreme Planets, 2pm; Season Dec 29 of Light, 3pm; Extreme Planets, 4pm. Jan 2Extreme Planets, adults & ages 10 & up. Wed.Mar 30 Fri. 2pm, Sat. & Sun. 2 & 4pm. Earth, Moon & Sun, ages 6-9. Sat. & Sun. 1 & 3pm. Schedule will be shown Jan. 20 too.

Ongoing

Patriots Week Planetarium Presentation, includes demonstration of the sky of Dec. 25, 1776, when George Washington crossed the Delaware. 11 & 1pm. Patriots Week Planetarium Presentation, includes demonstration of the sky of Dec. 25, 1776, when George Washington crossed the Delaware. 1 & 3pm. One World, One Sky, ages 2-6. The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket, ages 3-10. Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure, ages 6+. Passport to the Universe, all ages.

North Jersey Astronomical Group www.njastro.org. Free telescope nights Thurs. 8-9pm in front of Richardson Hall at Montclair State University, Montclair during the school year and skywatches for special events, weather permitting. Monthly kids’ telescope nights begin at 7:30pm.

Robert J. Novins Planetarium Ocean County College, College Dr. (parking lot 2), Toms River, 732-255-0343, 732-255-0400 ext. 2111. Recorded show information: 732-255-0342. Public shows are presented Fri.Sat. Adults $10, srs. $8, children 12 & under $7. School programs; portable planetarium; birthday parties; space store. The Astronomical Society of the Toms River Area (ASTRA) meets 7pm on the second Friday of the month and is open to interested people of all ages. Ongoing Wonders of the Sky, tour of the current season’s night sky; children’s shows; laser shows. Visit website for schedule and to purchase tickets. tickets.ocean.edu Dec 13- Holiday Schedule, extended children’s shows.

Dec 31

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium

Apr 15

Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd. (Rt. 78 exit 26 or Rt, 22W), North Branch, 908-231-8805. Park in lot #1, 6 or 7. Admission $6 two shows on the same day $12, not recommended for children under 5. Reservations recommended. Group rates; school group shows; Starlab portable planetarium for rent to educators who have attended summer workshop. Also offers Project ASTRO, a program that matches teachers in grades 2-9 with a volunteer astronomer; Family ASTRO, a one-day training program open to anyone with an interest in astronomy; and astronomy workshops for teachers of grades 2-12. Sensory-Friendly Shows One-hour show adapted for families with children on the autism spectrum or with developmental disabilities.

Apr 27

Dec 15, Jan 19, Feb 9, Mar 9, Apr 27, May 18 Sensory-friendly shows, all ages. 4:30-5:30pm. Astronomy Shows

Jan 4, 11, 18, 25 Magic Tree House: Space Mission, ages 5+. 3. Laser Light Waves, ages 6-12. 4pm. Winter Skies, tour of winter sky. 7pm. Rock of Ages, laser concert. 8pm Jan. 4 & 18. Laser Beatles, 8pm Jan. 11 & 25.

Jan 5, 19 Perfect Little Planet, ages 6-12. 2pm. Laser Kids, ages 6-12. 3pm.

Jan 12, 26 Black Holes, ages 8-adult. 2pm. New Jersey Rocks, laser concert. 3pm. Night of Lasers, four laser shows.

Jan 31 Feb 1, 8, 15, 22

Feb 9 Feb 17 Feb 14

Earth, Moon, Sun & Coyote, ages 6+. 2pm. Laser Kids 2, ages 6+. 3pm. Winter Skies, all ages. 7pm. Laser Queen, 8pm Feb. 1 & 15. Laser ELO, 8pm Feb. 8 & 22. Rockin’ Rocket Ride, ages 3-8. 2pm. SkyLights, ages 3-8. 3pm. Follow the Drinking Gourd, ages 6+. 2pm. Laser Kids 2, ages 6+. 3pm. Romancing the Stars, ages 18+. 7 & 8:15pm. $15 per couple. Laser 80’s, 8pm.

Mar 1, 8 Mar 2, 9, 16, 23

Mar 9

Perfect Little Planet, ages 6-12. 3pm. Laser Pop Rock, 4pm. Winter & Spring Skies, all ages. 7pm. Space Shapes & Tycho to the Moon, ages 5-10. 2pm. Storybooks in Space, ages 4-8. 3pm. Best of Pink Floyd, 8pm. Pink Floyd’s The Wall, 8pm.

Mar 15 Mar 22, Mar 29 Apr 5, 12, 26

Apr 14

Solar System Odyssey, ages 8-12. 3pm. Laser Light Waves, ages 6-12. 4pm. Spring Skies, all ages. 7pm. Laser Led Zeppelin, 8pm April 5 & 12. Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, 8pm Apr 26. Magic Tree House: Space Mission, ages 5+. 2. Perfect Little Planet, ages 6-12. 3pm.

The Little Star That Could, ages 6-12. 2pm. Laser Kids, ages 6+. 3pm. The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket, ages 6-12. 2pm. Magic Tree House: Space Mission, ages 5+. 3.

May 3, 10, 17

May 18

Magic Tree House: Space Mission, ages 5+. 3. Laser Pop Rock, 4pm. Spring Skies, all ages. 7pm. Rock of Ages, laser concert. 8pm May 3 & 17. Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, laser concert. 8pm May 10. Perfect Little Planet, ages 6-12. 2pm. Laser Pop Rock, 4pm.

Paul H. Robinson Observatory Voorhees State Park, 251 County Rd. Route 513 (rt. 78 to Rt. 31N), Glen Gardner, 908-638-8500. Memorial Day-Oct. 31: Sat. 8:30-10:30 & Sun. 2-5. Nov. & Feb.-May: Open 4th Sat. 8:30-10:30 weather permitting. Sponsored by the New Jersey Astronomical Association, lectures begin at 8:30pm rain or shine followed by viewing until 10:30, weather permitting. Youth class offered by appointment for groups of five or more. 2nd Sat Young Astronomer’s Programs, hands-on activities the second Sat. of May through Oct.

Robert A. Schommer Observatory On the roof of the Serin Physics Laboratories, Frelinghuysen & Allison Rds. (park in lot 53 or 53A), Busch Campus of Rutgers, Piscataway, 732-445-5500, ext. 2531 or 2503. Open to the public for two hours on the second and fourth Thurs., weather permitting, starting at 8pm Oct.-March and one hour after sunset April-Sept.

John W. H. Simpson Observatory Washington Crossing State Park (enter off of Bear Tavern Rd.), Titusville, 609-737-2575. The Amateur Astronomers Association of Princeton opens its observatory to the public every Friday April-Oct. from twilight to 11pm, if weather is clear.

Sperry Observatory Union County College, 1033 Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-276-STAR. Monthly meetings of Amateur Astronomers, Inc. are held on third Fri. of the month from Sept.-May. Informal meetings are held on most other Fri. All are open to the public. Call to schedule programs for younger audiences at 7:30pm. Celestial viewing takes place throughout the evening, weather permitting.

UniverseToday.com Astronomy news, photos and videos compiled from space agencies, science journals and university research groups.

TRAINS, PLANES & SHIPS Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of New Jersey Teterboro Airport (off Rt. 46 on Fred Wehran Dr.), Teterboro, 201-288-6344. Tues.-Sun. 10-4. Closed Mon. Adults $7, children 2 & older/srs. $5, group rate discount. Aeronautical Education Center (on east side of airport) features historical exhibits, hands-on aircraft engines & equipment, a Martin202 airliner, M.A.S.H. unit and 60-seat theater with film tracing the history of aviation in New Jersey. Picnic area. Birthday parties for ages 5 and up; Dare to Fly 4-hr. group program for ages 8-15; scout overnights.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

museums Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of New Jersey continued Jun 14Jun 15

Wings & Wheels Expo, WW II airplanes, helicopters, military vehicles, car show, kids activities, vendors and live entertainment.

Battleship New Jersey Camden Waterfront (Tpk. exit 4), 866-877-6262. Open for guided tours. Nov.-Dec. 31: Sat. & Sun. 9:30-3. Jan. 1-Feb. 1: closed for tours. Feb. 2-Mar. 31: Sat. & Sun. 9:30-3. April 1-30: Daily 9:30-3. May 1-Sept. 3: Daily 9:30-5. Sept. 4-Oct. 31: Daily 9:30-3. Adults $21.95, srs./veterans $17, ages 5-11 $17, under 5, active military and BB62/WWII Vets free. Floating museum and veteran’s memorial showcases the most decorated ship in history. Group tours; team-building programs; overnight encampments. Strollers are not allowed on board. www.battleshipnewjersey.org Ongoing Fish ‘n Ship, combo tickets for Battleship and Adventure Aquarium available. Dec 14 Breakfast with Santa on the Battleship, 9am. Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Family Overnight Encampment, ages 6-17 and families.

Black River & Western Railroad 12 Stangl Rd., Flemington; John Ringo Rd., Ringoes, 908782-6622. Antique passenger coaches depart Flemington and Ringoes weekends May-Oct. for a scenic ride through rural Hunterdon County. Adults $14, children 3-11 $7, under 3 free. First come, first served, no advance tickets sold except for special trains. Special events include the Easter Bunny Express, Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch Train, North Pole Express and Santa Express. www.newjerseytrain.org Special Events Jun-Aug Excursion Trains, 75 min. round trip ride between Ringoes and Flemington every Sat. and Sun. Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Circle Line Pier 83, W. 42nd St. & 12th Ave., New York, 212-563-3200. Sightseeing and special event cruises on the Hudson River and around Manhattan year round. May-Oct Kids Cruise, NYC tour with live interactive tour guide and onboard entertainment sails select Sat. May-Oct. Sailing 10-11:15am.

Model Railroad Club, Inc. P.O. Box 1146, 295 Jefferson Ave., off Rt. 22 East, Union, NJ 07083, 908-964-9724; 964-8808 recorded message. Open to the public Sat. 1-4pm. Adults $5, srs. $4, ages 3-15 $3.

New Hope & Ivyland Railroad 32 W. Bridge St., New Hope, PA, 215-862-2332. Nov.-May: weekends. June-Oct.: daily. Travel through historic Bucks County, Pennsylvania, in restored 1920s vintage passenger coaches and antique bar car aboard an authentic steam locomotive or historic diesel locomotive. Passengers for regular hourly excursion trains may board either at New Hope or at Lahaska Station (1 mile east of US 202 on Street Rd., Lahaska), get off and take a later train back to their originating station. Special events include North Pole Express, Easter Bunny Express, dinner trains, murdery mystery dinners, Grapevine Express, Halloween trains, Song & Story Hour, fall foliage, private charters and birthday parties.

New Jersey Naval Museum Court & River St., Hackensack, 201-342-3268. Sat.-Sun. 10-4pm, last tour at 3:15. Adults $12, srs. $7, under 12 $6, group rates. Guided tour of the USS Ling, a WWII submarine. Birthday parties; scout tours.

New Jersey Transit Train and Bus Information: www.njtransit.com. Weekend and Holiday Family Supersaver Fare: Two children (ages 5-11) ride free with a passenger paying any valid fare in effect from 7pm Friday (or the eve of a holiday) until 6am Mon. or the day after a holiday. At all times, up to 3 children 4 and under travel free when accompanied by a passenger paying any valid fare; children ages 5-11 save at least 50%. Ongoing Visit www.njtransit.com under “Rider Tools – Deals & Discounts” for discount offers to destinations in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia with a valid light rail, rail or bus ticket. Family-Friendly Train Destinations We welcome reader’s suggestions. • Bound Brook George’s Station Restaurant at station with train memorabilia, brunch, outdoor dining. • Cranford Walk to downtown shops and restaurants. • Far Hills Short walk to cafe, retail shops in Far Hills Center. • Maplewood Station directly across from downtown shops, diner, bakery, ice cream and Memorial Park playground. • Millington Millington Café at station with outdoor dining. • Newark Museum is a few steps from the Light Rail Washington Park Station. • New Jersey Performing Arts Center Light rail service connects all rail lines served by Newark Penn Station and Newark Broad St. Station to NJPAC. NJTransit.com/NLR • South Orange Diner, ice cream shop at station, downtown shops, short walk to Meadlowland Park. • Summit Mabie Playground and downtown Summit shops and restaurants are directly across from the station. • Westfield Walk to downtown shops and restaurants.

New York Susquehanna & Western 100 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg, 908-454-4433 (weekends 104), 877-train-ride. Steam train runs weekends May-Oct. Diesel locomotive runs Nov.-May. Adults $16, children $8, tickets available online. Special event fees vary. The only steam locomotive operating in New Jersey offers scenic one-hour trips along the Delaware River weekends May-Oct. or themed excursions throughout the year including Santa Claus, Polar Express (tickets go on sale in Aug.), Easter Bunny, Wine and Great Pumpkin Trains. Check website for dates. www.nyswths.org

New York Waterway 800-53-FERRY, www.nywaterway.com. A quick, convenient and scenic route to midtown and downtown Manhattan via ferry service from Hoboken, Jersey City or Weehawken. Free shuttle to Times Square area.

Pine Creek Railroad In Allaire State Park, Rt. 524 (exit 98 GSP), Allaire (Wall), 732938-5524. July– Labor Day weekend: Daily 12-4:30. Sept.-Dec. and April-June: 12-4:30 weekends and special events. Tickets $4. Parking fee Memorial Day-Labor Day. Narrow gauge rail line operates vintage diesel locomotives every half hour on a 1.5 mile loop in Allaire State Park. School groups; birthday parties. Selected Special Events Thru Christmas Express & Christmas Express Nights, Dec 21 with Santa Claus. Day trips depart weekends every half hour 11-4, night trips 6-8:30pm. $6.

Whippany Railway Museum 1 Railroad Plaza, Rt. 10W & Whippany Rd., Whippany, 973887-8177. Open for special events. Suggested donation:

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Adults $1, children under 12 $.50. Railroad memorabilia, exhibits, large operating Lionel train layout, gift shop, picnic grounds. 45-min. rides depart 1, 2 3, & 4pm. Seasonal events include rides with Santa, the Easter Bunny, on the Pumpkinliner or choose a restored caboose. Reservations are strongly recommended. Order online with credit card or send ticket order with check or money order and self-addressed, stamped #10 envelope to: PO Box 16, Whippany, 07981-0016. Tickets go on sale at noon on day of trip for remaining seats. Adults $14, under 12 $9, babes-in-arms free. www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net

Apr 12, 13, 19 Easter Bunny Express, see listing for details. Limited tickets available for seating in the elegant 1927-era Jersey Coast Club Car.

NEW YORK

the broadway league 1-888 BROADWAY, Broadway information line. www.broadway.org, the official website of The Broadway League, lists shows, sells tickets, and offers dining, hotel information and special offers. Add name and address to Broadway Club for Kids or the Broadway Fan Club mailing list to receive special offers. Kids Night on Broadway, held annually during the winter, offers almost every show on Broadway free for kids 6-18 with purchase of adult full price ticket. For tickets and info, visit website at www.kidsnightonbroadway.com. Jan 8 Tickets go on sale for Kids Night on Broadway, Feb 24-Mar. 2.

high 5 tickets All teens ages 13-18 and preteens enrolled in middle school can buy theater, music and dance tickets for $5 with ID at High 5 Headquarters at 1 E. 53rd & 5th Ave. or online @ www.high5tix.org. Museum and film screening admissions and Mon.-Thurs. performances are 2/$5. Take 5 program enables small groups of students and their adult chaperones to purchase tickets for participating arts events, 212-750-0555. www.high5tix.org

entertainment-link.com Source for discount tickets to Broadway and other theaters, family, sports, performing arts and music events provides age recommendations and reviews.

nycgo.com The website of NYC & Company, the official marketing organization for the City of New York, provides NYC travel guides, maps, tips, event calendars, promotions and tour information. Visitor Information Centers are located in Times Square at 1560 Broadway (between 46th & 47th Sts.); midtown at 810 7th Ave. (between 52nd & 53rd Sts.); downtown at the southern tip of City Hall Park on the Broadway sidewalk at Park Row; in Chinatown at the triangle where Canal, Walker and Baxter Sts. meet; and in the Financial District at the Federal Hall National Memorial, 26 Wall St. 1-800NYC-VISIT, visitorinfo@nycvisit.com.

discount tickets TKTS Times Square Discount Booth Father Duffy Square, 47th & Broadway (under the red steps). For evening performances open Mon.-Sat.: 3-8, Sun. 3pm to one-half hour before latest curtain time. For matinee performances open Wed. & Sat. 10-2, Sun. 113. Sells discount tickets to same day performances of Broadway, Off-Broadway, dance and music events. Credit cards accepted. TKTS Booth at South Street Seaport (Front & John Sts.) sells same day evening tickets and next day matinee tickets. Open Mon.-Sat. 11-6, Sun. 11-4. See current listings of available tickets at www.tdf.org or sign up for daily email of available tickets. 212-912-9770. School Theater Ticket Program 1560 Broadway, Suite 1113, New York, NY 10036, 212354-4722. Provides discount coupons for plays on and off-Broadway, events at Lincoln Center and other events in New York City to schools, educational facilities, camps or non-profit groups of 15 or more. www.schooltix.com www.StudentRush.org Registration is free to find discount coupons and student rush info on almost any show. Some of the discounts are restricted to current students with ID; all free ticketed events and non-ticketed events are available to anyone. Theater Development Fund 212-912-9770. Teachers, students, retirees, union members, military members and others are eligible to join and receive discounted tickets. Teen blog and student discount show list online, www.tdf.org. Through the Autism Theater Initiative, TDF presents autismfriendly performances at discount prices to families. Visit website for performance dates and to sign up for notification, www.tdf.org/autism. Hit Show Club 630 Ninth Ave. (between 44th & 45th), 8th floor, 212581-4211. Responsible for the free discount coupons often found in stores and libraries. Email to join and receive weekly email updates of discount offers, members@hitshowclub.com. www.hitshowclub.com www.BroadwayBox.com Free listing of discount codes available to purchase Broadway and Off-Broadway show tickets at up to 50% off. www.nytix.com Useful website offers Broadway ticket discount codes ($3 fee) and other discount ticket information, free TV show tickets, hotel discounts, tour info, event information. www.playbill.com Top Broadway and off Broadway show tickets are available at discounts to those who register on line. You will receive a code to give to the box office upon ordering. www.theatermania.com theatermania.com/kids Comprehensive theater information site with listings, news, reviews, tickets, discount offers and guide to New York family theater.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

new york Ongoing A Night at the Museum, sleepovers for families

discount tickets Lincoln Center Visitor Center atrium.lincolncenter.org The David Rubenstein Atrium, 61 W. 62nd St., posts discount ticket availability to performances at Lincoln Center, New York City Center, 92nd Street Y, Merkin Concert Hall and Miller Theatre. Box office for discount tickets is open Tues.-Fri. 2-7:45pm, Sat. 12-2 and 37:45pm. When available, Sun. tickets are sold on Sat. Limit four tickets per person. Full price tickets can be purchased at kiosks near the information desk. Atrium hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-10pm, Sat. & Sun. 9am-10pm.

discount parking Search by neighborhood, address, cross street or attraction and print out parking coupons before you go for substantial discounts. nyc.bestparking.com, iconparking.com centralparking.com, parkfast.com

American Ballet Theatre City Center, West 55th St. between 6th & 7th Aves., 212-4773030. ABTKids Hotline: 212-419-4321. CityTix: 212-581-1212. Oct.-Nov. & May-July seasons feature premieres, full-length classics and repertory ballet, ABT Family Series for ages 6-17 and ABTKids performances designed for ages 4-12. Discount student rush tickets available at the Met box office on day of performance for elementary to college students 25 yrs. of age or younger with valid I.D. Thru The Nutcracker, appropriate for ages 4 & up. Dec 22 BAM Howard Gilman Opera House. May 12- Spring Season & ABT Family Series, MetroJul 5 politan Opera House. May 17 ABT Kids, one hour program presents bitesized clips from the spring season. 11:30am.

American Museum of Natural History Central Park W at 79th St., 212-769-5100. Sky info: 212769-5900. Open 10-5:45, Rose Center open Fri. to 8:45. Suggested admission: Adults $22, children $12.50, students/srs. $17. Additional fee for space show, IMAX films, special exhibitions and audio guides. www.amnh.org One of the world’s preeminent scientific, educational and cultural institutions displays the world’s largest collection of real dinosaur fossils among many other outstanding exhibits, including the Hall of Biodiversity, Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth, Hall of Ocean Life, spectacular home of the beloved 94-foot-long blue whale, and Rose Center for Earth & Space featuring the Hayden Planetarium. Thematic tours of the museum’s collections are offered daily. CD audio guides and apps are available for touring different collections. Visit website for information about adult and children’s workshops for ages 4 and up, summer day camps and travel with the museum. For tour info, call 212769-5566. For workshop info, call Dept. of Education, 212769-5304. For space show information, see listing for the Hayden Planetarium. For the latest exhibition information, visit www.amnh.org/visitors.

www.KIDSGUIDEnj.COM Get more info with easy links to Kids Guide listings!

and groups with children ages 6-13. Tour the Mammal and Dinosaur Halls with flashlights, see a space show, and sleep beneath the 94-footlong blue whale in the Hall of Ocean Life. Advance reservations required, www.amnh.org/ sleepovers. Jan 10, 18, Feb 7, 15, Mar 7, 15, 28, Apr 5, 11, May 2, 17, 31, Jun 13, 21 Public Programs, demonstrations, films, performances and special events. 212-769-5315, www.amnh.org/calendar for current schedule. A calendar of children and family events can be found on Ology, the “Kids & Families” section of the website, at www.amnh.org/ology Discovery Room, an interactive space near the 77th St. entrance offers families, especially children ages 5-12, a behind-the-scenes look at the Museum and its science. Pick up a free timed pass for a 40-min. session at the Discovery Room entrance. AMNH History Explorer Mobile App, available free from the App Store, uses Wifi to function as an “indoor GPS” within the museum. Information on exhibits, customized tours and a fossil treasure hunt are included. A Dinosaur App and Astronomy App highlighting the museum’s collections are also available. AMNH Expeditions, family travel programs around the globe. View online or call 800-462-8687. Fossil Halls trace the evolution of vertebrate life with more than 100 dinosaur specimens (85% real), videos, exhibits, and computer information stations. CD audio guide and app available. Mystery at the Museum: An Accomplice Experience, part game, part theater, part walking tour, participants, 10 yrs. old and up, follow clues and solve puzzles in the museum halls and behind-the-scenes locations to unravel a mystery. Purchase tickets online for weekend programs, limited to 10 people per tour. Selected Special Exhibitions Thru Whales: Giants of the Deep, explores the latest Jan 5 research on whales, dolphins and porpoises, and examines whale biology and the history of whaling in New Zealand. Thru Frogs: A Chorus of Colors, illuminates the Jan 5 diversity and evolution of frogs. Thru The Butterfly Conservatory: Tropical Butterflies May 26 Alive in Winter, walk through a tropical vivarium housing up to 500 live, free-flying butterflies. Thru The Power of Poison, explores the role of poiMay 26 son in nature, human health & history, literature and myth. Aug 10 Alive in Winter, walk through a tropical vivarium housing up to 500 live, free-flying butterflies. Selected Special Events OctSciCafe, after-hours series features informal talks Jun on current topics in science, stories from the field & cocktails on the first Wed. of the month. Thru Origami Holiday Tree, annual holiday tree display Jan 12 and two lit 19-foot holiday barosaurs welcome visitors to the museum. Volunteers are on hand to teach origami folding.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

The Anne Frank Center USA 44 Park Place, 212-431-7993. Tues.-Sat. 10-5. Located two blocks north of the World Trade Center site, interactive exhibits tell Anne’s story through excerpts from her diary, photographs, and a life-sized simulation of her attic room. Changing exhibits; onsite group programs, tours and outreach programs; teacher resources. Visit website for schedule of films, lectures and family programs. www.annefrank.com 1st Sat Conversations with Anne, interactive performance brings Anne Frank alive for ages 9 and up. Q&A follows each performance.

Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Park Fordham Rd. & the Bronx River Parkway, 718-367-1010. April-Nov. 1: Mon.-Fri. 10-5, weekends/holidays 10-5:30. Nov.-Mar. 30: 10-4:30. April-Oct.: Adults $16.95, srs. $14.95, ages 3-12 $12.95, 2 & under free. Nov.-Mar.: Ages 2 & up $9. Special rides and attractions have additional entry fees. Parking fee. Admission on Wed. by donation. Admission rates discounted during winter. Total Experience tickets are discounted online. Family or group tours available by reservation, 718-220-5141. 265 wooded acres allow spacious, naturalistic habitats for over 4,000 animals. Habitats include Congo Gorilla Forest, Baboon Reserve, African Plains, Wild Asia, World of Birds, World of Reptiles and Madagascar, the restored 1903 Lion House and NYC’s first landmark LEED certified building. Special rides and attractions include hands-on children’s zoo (open Apr.-Nov.), Butterfly Garden, 4-D theater, monorail ride through Wild Asia (open May-Oct.), camel rides, Zucker Bug Carousel, and zoo shuttle.

Carnegie Hall 154 W. 57th St., New York, 212-903-9600. Tickets available at box office, online at www.carnegiehall.org or through Carnegie Charge, 212-247-7800. Sign up at carnegiehall.org/ students for $10 student tickets. Family Concert Series 2013-2014 60-minute concerts with world-class artists and hands-on preconcert activities recommended for ages 5-10. 1pm. $9. Visit “Education & Community” at www.carnegiehall.org to purchase tickets. Dec 21 The New York Pops, 2pm. Family Concert Series 2013-2014 Feb 1 Bang on a Can All-Stars. Mar 8 Regina Carter’s Reverse Thread. Apr 26 Natalie Merchant, 3pm.

Central Park A wonderful oasis in the heart of the city, Central Park can be an all-day adventure in good weather with non-stop activities and entertainment. Park information: 212-3106600; www.nycgovparks.org/parks/centralpark. Consult centralparknyc.org for walking tours and cityparksfoundation.org for information about cultural events. Central Park Zoo 5th Ave. & 64th St., 212-439-6500. Nov. 4-Mar. 29: Daily 104:30. Mar. 30-Nov. 5: Daily 10-5:30. Adults $12, srs. $9, ages 3-12 $7, under 3 free. www.centralparkzoo.com Visit the Tropic Zone, Temperate Territory and the Polar Circle where you can observe animals at close range. Daily animal feedings, guided tours, Wildlife Theater shows (AprilOct.) and 4D Theater. The Tisch Children’s Zoo is an interactive area designed for toddlers and preschoolers to meet a number of small, gentle animals.

Belvidere Castle Mid-park at 79th St., 212-772-0210. Open May-Oct. 10-5; Nov.-Apr 10-4. Free admission. Houses the Henry Luce Nature Observatory with discovery activities for children and adults. Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre Swedish Cottage, Central Park W. & 79th St., 212-988-9093. Brought to Central Park by Fredrick Law Olsted in 1877, the Swedish Cottage has been home to the Marionette Theatre since 1947. Performances daily. Adults $8, children $5, reservations required. www.cityparksfoundation.org Other Park Attractions Historic carousel rides (midway at 65th St., 212439-6900, www.centralparkcarousel.com); free storytelling appropriate for ages 6 and up at 11 am on Sat. June thru Sept. at the Hans Christian Andersen Statue (5th & 72nd St., www.hcastorycenter.org); model Yacht Club races and regattas most Sat. April thru Nov. on the Conservatory Water (near 5th & 76th); 21 playgrounds. Jun-Sept Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling in Central Park, ages 6 & up. Sat. 11-12. Free. Oct-Mar Ice Skating, Wollman Rink, Central Park East between 62nd & 63rd Sts., 212-439-6900. www.wollmanskatingrink.com

Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center 70 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, 212-875-5788. Presents annual series of concerts and educational events. Pending availability, tickets are available at the box office at a 50% discount for students; $10 student rush tickets are available one hour prior to curtain; and CM360 series tickets entitle ages 21-39 to three tickets for $60. Free tickets are available to middle and high school students for select concerts. Several teen-only concerts are presented each season. 2013-2014 Meet the Music Family Concert Series Afternoon concert series or single concerts for families with children ages 6-10. Performances at 2pm. Mar 16 Meet theMusic! Leave it to Ludwig. May 11 Meet the Music! Inspector Pulse’s Mother.

Children’s Museum of Manhattan 212 W. 83rd St. (between Broadway & Amsterdam), New York, 212-721-1223. Tues.-Sun. 10-5, Sat. 10-7. Adults & children $11, srs. $7, under 1 free. Target Free First Friday Nights: free admission 5-8pm on the first Friday of the month. Hands-on exhibits include Time Warner television studio where daily workshop participants ages 6 & up produce their own TV news; reading/storytelling room; art studio; an outdoor waterplay area (open April to Oct., weather permitting); PlayWorks exploration area for ages 4 & under; and changing exhibitions. Strollers must be checked; no food. Sign up for workshops upon arrival. Sat & Guest artists & hands-on workshops scheduled Sun weekends and holidays, daily in summer. New EatPlayGrow Curriculum, 11 healthy lifestyle lessons are available for download online. Open EatSleepPlay: Building Health Every Day.

Children’s Museum of the Arts 103 Charlton St. (between Hudson & Greenwich Sts.), 212274-0986. Mon. & Wed. 12-5, Thurs. & Fri. 12-6, Sat. & Sun. 10-5, closed Tues. Pay as you wish Thurs. 4-6pm. Admission ages 1-65: $11. Hands-on, interactive arts programs, play areas and exhibitions designed for toddlers to age 10. Art projects daily, music performers and visiting artists on Sat. Ongoing Wee Arts Drop-In Sessions, for ages 5 and under and caregiver. 10:45-12 before general admission hours. $25 per family.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

new york Discovery Times Square Exposition

Ongoing Thannhauser Collection, masterpieces of

Former New York Times Building, 226 W. 44th St. (between 7th & 8th Aves.), 866-987-9692. Sun.-Tues. 10-7, Wed. & Thurs. 10-8, Fri. & Sat. 10-9. Admission by timed ticket, fees vary by exhibition. Large-scale exhibitions are presented in the vast space that housed the New York Times printing presses for almost a century. Free education guides can be downloaded for students, seniors, groups and scouts. Audio guides are available online and at the box office. Strollers are not permitted in the galleries. Cafe; Discovery Store; New York Times Store. Open Odyssey’s Shipwreck! Pirates & Treasure, The Exhibition. Gunther von Hagens’ Body Worlds: Pulse, The Original Exhibition. The Art of the Brick, by artist Nathan Sawaya. Check website before visiting to confirm current exhibitions.

Impressionism, Post-Impressionism and contemporary French and German avant gardes art on view in a dedicated gallery. Selected Family Programs Sat Family Activity Kiosk, 10-4. Pick up a Family & Sun Activity Pack designed for ages 4-12. Sun Just Drop In, creative projects led by museum educators for families with children ages 310. 1-4pm most Sun. Free with admission. Open Studio for Families, ages 5-14, 1-4pm Sundays. 212-423-3587. Family Tour & Workshop, family-oriented tour and art project for families with children ages 5-12. Registration required, 212-423-3587. Jan 19 Print it Out. 2nd Sun Second Sunday Family Tours, family-oriented tour (ages 5-12) and hands-on gallery activities. 10:30-12. Registration required. Jan 12 Lines in Motion.

FDNY Fire Zone 34 W. 51st St. (adjacent to Radio City Music Hall), 212-6984520. Mon.-Sat. 9-7, Sun. 11-5. Free admission. Multi-media fire safety presentation every hour on the half hour 9:305:30, Sun. 11:30-3:30. Adults & children $6, srs. $2, not recommended for children 4 or younger. Fire safety learning center where visitors can climb on a real fire truck, try on bunker gear, meet a firefighter, feel a “hot” door, and learn to crawl through a smoke-filled hallway.

Forbes Magazine Galleries 62 Fifth Ave. at 12th St., 212-206-5548. Open Tues.-Sat. 104. Guided group tours by reservation on Thursdays. Call before visiting to confirm Galleries are open. Free, for children of all ages. Galleries occupy the lobby level of the Forbes building and include soundtrack and display of 500 toy boats, 10,000 toy soldiers, collections of the oldest Monopoly sets, trophies, Presidential manuscripts & WWII documents, painting gallery and Faberge gallery.

Fraunces Tavern Museum 54 Pearl St., New York, 212-425-1778. Mon.-Sun. 12-5. Adults $7 ages 6-18 & srs. $4, 5 & under free, family group $20. Built as an elegant residence for merchant Stephan Delancey and his family, this is Manhattan’s oldest surviving building. In 1762, the home was purchased by tavern-keeper Samuel Fraunces and became an important place for politics as well as food and drink. It is best known as the site where Washington gave his farewell address to the officers of the Continental Army in 1783. School tours and guided group tours available. Programs include evening and lunchtime lectures, family programs and special events.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum 5th Ave. at 89th St., New York, 212-423-3500. Sun.-Wed. and Fri. 10-5:45, Sat. 10-7:45. Adults $22, students/srs. $18, under 12 free. Pay-what-you-wish Fri. 6-8. Audio tours free with admission. Strollers permitted on ground floor only; baby carriers available at coatroom. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the building is a New York City landmark and also home to one of the finest collections of modern and contemporary art. Family activity packs and Guggenheim sketchbooks can be checked out at the Information Desk. Printed family activity guides are available at the museum and online. Selected Exhibitions

Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth & Space Central Park West at 81st St., 212-769-5900, space show and current sky information. Free audio tours available with admission. Also see listing under American Museum of Natural History. Tues Astronomy Live, interactive tour of the universe and view of the changing night sky. 6:30-7:30pm last Tues. of each month. Monthly One Step Beyond, live bands, DJ, VJs, drinks and dancing in the Rose Center. 9pm-1am. Must be 21 or older to attend. Tickets can be purchased at amnh.org/osb or by calling 212-769-5200. Open Dark Universe, space show celebrates the pivotal discoveries that have led to our current knowledge of the universe. Space shows are shown every half hour 10:30-4:30.

Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum Pier 86 (on the Hudson River) at West 46th St. & 12th Ave., New York, 212-245-0072, 877-957-SHIP. Nov. 1-Mar. 31: Daily 10-5. April 1-Oct. 31: Mon.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-6. General admission: Adults $22, srs./students $18, ages 7-17 $17, ages 3-6 $10, under 3 free. Save $2 on each ticket purchased online, www.intrepidmuseum.org. Explore the the 900 ft.-long aircraft carrier, USS Intrepid, the command center of the submarine, Growler, British Airways Concorde, A-12 Blackbird spy plane, Space Shuttle Enterprise (additional fee) and 25 other aircraft on display. Virtual Flight Zone Simulators include a G-Force Encounter or flying an F-18 jet fighter mission in a Navy Flight Simulator (additional fee). The Exploreum is an interactive area for children. Scavenger hunts and family guides are available for self-guided tours. Ongoing Operation Slumber, overnight program for families and organized youth groups. Birthday Parties. Call 646-381-5010 or email groupsales@ intrepidmuseum.org to book. All Hands on Deck, hands-on arts, crafts and experiments 11-1 & 2-4 Sat. & Sun. Intrepid Adventure, interactive website for kids. www.intrepidmuseum.org/adventure Space Shuttle Pavilion, space shuttle Enterprise finds its new home on Intrepid’s flight deck. Advance tickets can be purchased online.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Selected Special Events

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

Feb 15- Kids Week 2014, nine-day family-friendly event Feb 23 with interactive activities & live performances.

Alice Tully Hall, 65th St. & Broadway, 212-721-6500. The world’s leading performing arts center comprises 12 resident arts organizations. For the complete schedule of performances at Lincoln Center, consult website, www.lincolncenter.org. Ongoing Zucker Discount Ticket Box Office, is open inside the David Rubenstein Atrium Visitor Center, Tues.-Fri. 2-7:45pm and Sat. 12-2, 37:45pm. Discounts of 25-50% may be available, limit four tickets per person. Full price tickets can also be purchased at kiosks near the information desk or at theater box offices. The Visitor Center is open Mon.-Fri. 8am-10pm, Sat. & Sun. 9am-10pm. Tom Colicchio’s ‘wichcraft restaurant inside the Atrium offers breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, salads, pastries and full bar. atrium.lincolncenter.org Thurs Free Public Performances, Thurs. at 7:30pm at the Atrium. 1st Sat Meet the Artist Saturday, informal, interactive one-hour presentation for the whole family is presented at 11am on 1st Sat. of the month.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Frederick P. Rose Hall, Columbus Circle, Broadway at 60th St., 212-258-9800. CenterCharge: 212-721-6500. Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra performances, jazz artists, talks, films, Jazz 101 to master classes, WeBop! classes for children 8 months to 5 years old and their caregiver, and family concerts. $10 student tickets (with valid ID) are available one hour before start of performances in Rose Theater and The Allen Room (subject to availability). Hot Seats, $10 seats for each Rose Theater performance, are available on the day of performance through CenterCharge (subject to availability). Jazz for Young People 2012-2013 Two-concerts of kid-friendly lessons by Wynton Marsalis and guests from the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra corps, recommended for ages 6 and older. 1 & 3pm at the Rose Theater. Feb 8 Who is Dave Brubeck?

Jazz Standard Jazz for Kids Jazz Standard, 116 E. 27th St. (between Park & Lexington), 212-576-2232. Hosts Jazz for Kids brunch every Sunday throughout the school year with music by the Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra and barbecue, lunch and kids menu from Blue Smoke. Doors open at 1pm. Free admission, $5 donation benefits Jazz Standard Discovery program.

The Jewish Museum 1109 Fifth Ave. at 92nd St., New York, 212-423-3200. Fri.Tues. 11-5:45, Thurs. 11-8, closed Wed. Friday hours change after Nov. 1. Museum shop and cafe closed Saturdays. Adults $15, srs. $12, students $7.50, 18 and under free. Free admission on Sat.; pay-what-you-wish Thurs. 5-8pm. Museum explores the diversity of 4,000 years of art and Jewish culture through permanent and changing exhibitions. Culture & Continuity: The Jewish Journey tells the unfolding story of Jewish culture and identity. Audio guide available for children ages 6 and up, free with museum admission. Family activities every Sun. and selected holiday weekdays; Sun. family concerts and theater. Ongoing Archaeology Zone: Discovering Treasures from Playgrounds to Palaces, interactive children’s exhibition designed for ages 3-10. Closed Sat. Sun Sundays at the Museum, drop-in art workSeptshops, gallery tours, stories, archaeological Jun digs, concerts and performances for families are scheduled. For more info and current calendar, call 212-423-3337 or visit website at www.thejewishmuseum.org/families. Selected Exhibitions Thru Chagall: Love, War & Exile, 1930s-1948.

Feb 2

The Joyce Theatre 175 8th Ave., New York, 212-691-9740. An intimate 472-seat venue in Chelsea presents a full spectrum of dance movement styles and traditions. Dance talks, pre- and post-performance events and Family Matinee series designed for ages 6-14. Family Matinee Series 2pm performances for families with children ages 6-14. Adult tickets start at $10, children $10. Jan 25 Parsons Dance. Mar 15 Dance Brazil. May 3 Limon Dance Company. Jul 23 Pilobolus.

Little Orchestra Society 212-971-9500. Concert series for both children and adults. Single tickets go on sale after Labor Day. Happy Concerts for Young People 2013-2014 Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center. 60-min. 3-concert series begins in Oct. for ages 6-12. Performances at 11 & 1pm. Subscriptions and single tickets available. Apr 5 Hansel & Gretel, new production. May 17 The Composer is Dead. Lolli-Pops Concerts The Kaye Playhouse, Hunter College, 695 Park Ave. (68th between Park & Lexington). Popular 3- or 6-concert series for children ages 3-5. Sat. 10 & 11:30, Sun. 11:30 & 1. Mar 8-9 Bach, Beethoven & Brahms! Apr 26-27 Peter & The Wolf.

Lower East Side Tenement Museum Visitor Center: 108 Orchard St. (corner of Broome), 212982-8420. Tickets: 866-606-7232 or online. First tour at 10:30am, last tour at 5pm daily. Adults $22, students/srs. $17, 5 and under free. Tenement museum, open by guided tours only, consists of a Visitor Center, where all tours begin, and 1863 tenement building, a National Historic Landmark that was home to over 7,000 people from 20 nations between 1863 and 1935. One-hour tours take you into re-created apartments to tell the stories of different immigrant families (suitable for children ages 8 and older). Three hour free parking is available on Broome St. between Norfolk & Suffolk Sts. www.tenement.org New Shop Life Exhibit, at 97 Orchard St., re-creates an 1870’s German beer saloon and reveals stories of immigrant businesses through photos and audio clips. Suggested Tour for Children (ages 5 & up) & Families Sat & Victoria Confino. In a 45-min. tour designed Sun especially for families, a costumed interpreter, playing teenage Victoria Confino around 1916, welcomes visitors to her apartment as though they were new immigrants and teaches them how to adapt to the American way of life. Visitors can touch any items in the apartment.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

new york Madame Tussaud Wax Museum

Museum of Arts and Design

234 W. 42nd St., Times Square, 212-512-9600, 800-246-8872. Sun.-Thurs. 10-8, Fri.-Sat. 10-10, closes early for special events. All Access Pass: Adults $36, ages 4-12 $29, under 3 free. 20% discount for tickets purchased online. Mingle with life-like notable figures and celebrities from past and present; 4D theater. A hit with teens; bring a camera. www.nycwax.com.

2 Columbus Circle, New York, 212-299-7777. Tues.-Sun. 106, Thurs. & Fri. 10-9. Closed Mon. and major holidays. The Store at MAD: Mon.-Sat. 10-7, Thurs. 10-9, Sun. 10-6. Adults $16, srs. $14, students $12, high school students with ID and children 8 and under (excluding groups) free, members free. Pay-what-you-wish Thurs. 6-9pm. Formerly the American Craft Museum, MAD collects, displays and interprets everyday objects that exemplify innovation and creativity in craft, art and design. Open Studios on the 6th floor give visitors the opportunity to observe and talk to artists at work and watch special demonstrations by exhibiting artists. Workshops for families, youth and adults, workshops and portfolio reviews for high school students, school and camp programs and summer art camps are offered. Special Family Days are offered three times a year. For information, 212-299-7780. Only umbrella-style strollers can be accommodated on the gallery floors. Ongoing Open Studios, artists at work on the 6th floor daily 10-1:30pm and 2:30-5pm. Thursday nights 6-8:30pm. Docent Tours, Tues.-Sun. 11:30 & 3pm, Thurs. & Fri. 6:30pm. 1st Sun Studio Sunday, explore the galleries with a professional artist followed by a hands-on workshop the first Sun. of the month. Suitable for ages 6 and up. 2pm. $10.

Metropolitan Museum of Art 1000 Fifth Ave., 212-535-7710. Fri.-Sat. 10-9, Sun.-Thurs. 105:30. Suggested: Adults $25, srs. $17, students $12, members & under 12 free. No strollers on Sun. and at most special exhibitions. Back carriers available at 81st St. coat check. Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and finest art museums with magnificent collections of classical art, Old Masters, Impressionists, American art and crafts, and ancient Egyptian artifacts. Over two million works of art span 5,000 years of world culture. Gallery talks, family programs and guided tours daily. Concert series; lectures; films; school, camp and teacher programs; adult and teen art classes; family programs in Spanish; access programs and services for visitors with disabilities are offered. Chinese garden; rooftop garden; Costume Institute. The Cloisters, a branch of the museum constructed from portions of five medieval cloisters, is dedicated to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages and offers a splendid setting overlooking the Hudson River. Check website for schedule of gallery talks, special events, workshops for families, concerts and seasonal garden tours. Located in Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan, 212-923-3700. www.metmuseum.org/cloisters Main Building Events A host of family programs are offered free with museum admission and do not require advance reservations. See online calendar at www.metmuseum.org/events/find-events for schedule or call 212-650-2217. Ongoing Pick up Family Guides and Hunts at the information desks and check at the information desk for scheduled drop-in guided tours and family programs. To view and print family guides or suggested itineraries before your visit, go to www.metmuseum.org/learn/forkids. Family audio guide is available. Start with Art at the Met, families with children ages 3-7 sketch, explore and listen to stories. Art Trek, program for families with children ages 5-12 explores art around the globe. Discoveries, workshop for children and adults with developmental and learning disabilities. Reservations required, 212-879-5500, ext. 3561. Selected Exhibitions Thru Christmas Tree & Neapolitan Baroque Creche.

Jan 6 May 8Aug 10 May Nov

Charles James: Beyond Fashion, 20th century couturier. Costume Institute. Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden open weather permitting.

Metropolitan Opera Lincoln Center, Columbus Ave. between W. 62nd and 65th Sts., 212-362-6000. www.metopera.org

Museum of the City of New York 5th Ave. at 103rd St., New York, 212-534-1672. Mon.-Sun. 106. Families $20; adults $10; students & srs. $6, 12 & under free. Free admission Sun. 10-12. Five floors of exhibits relating to New York and its history. Antique fire gallery, Dutch Gallery with life-size replica of Dutch fort, Big Apple multi-media exhibition, costumes and Toy Gallery contains more than 10,000 playthings from the late 18th century to the present. Ongoing Family-friendly scavenger hunts, for self-guided tours. Request from Admissions staff. Sat, Sun Storytelling, special events, drop-in history & art activities, ages 6-12. 11-2 weekends. Selected Exhibitions Thru Norman Bel Geddes: I Have Seen the Future, Feb 10 innovative theater & industrial designer who shaped modern America. Thru Rising Waters, juried exhibition of photoMar 2 graphs of Superstorm Sandy. Feb 4City As Canvas: New York City Graffiti from Jul 27 the Martin Wong Collection, street art of the 1970s and 80s.

Museum of Modern Art 11 W. 53 St., Manhattan, 212-708-9400. Sat.-Mon., Wed.Thurs. 10:30-5:30. Fri. 10:30-8. Daily 10:30-5:30, Fri. until 8pm. Extended summer hours: Adults $25, srs. $18, fulltime students with ID $14, 16 & under free with adult (includes admittance to galleries and film programs). Admission is free during UNQLO Free Friday Nights every Fri. 4-8pm. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.moma.org. An unrivaled view of modern masters and art movements from about 1885 to the present is displayed in a renovated and expanded building designed by Yoshio Taniguchi. Ford Family Programs offer guided tours, artist talks, art workshops, and film screenings for children and their adult companions (see below for more details).

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Ongoing Ford Family Activity Guide for ages 4 & up available at Education and Family Information desk on the second floor (next to Cafe 2). MoMA Audio, guides to the collections and temporary exhibitions are available free. MoMA Audio: Modern Kids audioguide provides four child-friendly tours geared for ages 5-10. Audio guides may be listened to and downloaded onto MP-3 devices at www.moma.org/audio. www.moma.org/destination, website for children ages 5-8. www.moma.org/visit/plan/family, website provides tips for planning a family visit. Art Safari: An Adventure in Looking for Children & Adults, (www.mom.org/artsafari), book and website for children ages 5-12. Selected Special Exhibitions Thru American Modern: Hopper to O’Keeffe.

Jan 26 Thru Jan 12 Dec 21Apr 21 Feb 9Dec 1

Magritte: The Mystery of the Ordinary, 19261938. Ileana Sonnabend: Ambassador for the New.

A World of Its Own: Photographic Practices in the Studio. Family Programs at MoMa All programs are free with museum admission. Some programs do not require pre-registration, but tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 10am on the day of the program. For dates and registration information, email familyprograms@moma.org, call 212708-9805 or visit www.moma.org/family and subscribe to Family Programs E-News. For info on programs for high school students, call 212-333-1252 or email teenprograms@ moma.org. School Year Family Programs Fri Teen Nights, for high school students. 4-8pm, pizza & refreshments served before program begins at 4:45. Bring a valid high school ID. Sat Family Films, 12-1pm in The Roy & Niuta Titus Theater 2. Families should use 54th St. entrance. Films for Tweens, for ages 11-14 and adult companions. 2pm. Conversations with Contemporary Artists: The Family Edition, 1-2, registration required. Sat & Tours for Fours, morning drop-in program Sun for 4 yr.-olds and their adult companions. A Closer Look for Kids, morning drop-in program for ages 5-10 and adult companions. Tours for Tweens, ages 11-14 and adult companion. 10:30-12, registration required. Family Art Workshops, 10:30-12:30 & 2-4pm. Advance registration required.

New Museum of Contemporary Art 235 Bowery, New York, 212-219-1222. Wed., Fri.-Sun. 11-6. Thurs. 11-9. Adults $16, srs. $14, students $10, under 18 free. Free Thurs. from 7-9. A seven-story stack of metal mesh-clad boxes shifted off axis is home to changing contemporary art exhibits. 1st First Saturdays for Families, hands-on programs, Sat conducted by museum educators, are designed for families with children and young adults

ages 5-15 on the first Sat. of each month. Free, includes museum admission for up to 3 adults per family. Tickets are given out on a first come, first-served basis. Selected Exhibitions Jan 22- Report on the Construction of a Spaceship Apr 6 Module.

New Victory Theater 209 W. 42nd St. (just west of Broadway), 646-223-3020. Tickets: 212-239-6200 (Tele-charge). Ticket prices $14-$38. Tickets purchased for 3 or more events receive discount and membership, 646-223-3010. Oct.-May season of professional productions specifically for children and their families by national and international artists. Educational programs include day-time performances for students, curriculum materials, after-school career workshops and apprenticeship programs for high school and college students. 646-223-3092 for information. 2013-2014 Season Dec 6Mother Africa, Circus Der Sinne. Ages 5+.

Jan 5 Jan 18Jan 20 Feb 7Feb 23 Feb 12Feb 23 Feb 28Mar 16 Mar 21Mar 30 Apr 4Apr 20 Apr 26May 4 May 7May 18 May 9May 18

Still Awake Still!, Jump Leads & Jessica Wilson. Ages 4+. Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds, Adventure Theatre MTC. Ages 5+. This [Baby] Life, Sally Chance Dance. Ages 418 mos. New 42nd Street Studios. Measure for Measure, Fiasco Theater. Ages 13+. Knee Deep, Casus Circus Company. Ages 7+. Bello Mania, athletic comedy. Ages 4+. Fluff: A Story of Lost Toys, Cre8ion Theatre. Ages 5+. Baby Rave, Young at Art from Belfast, Ireland. Ages 4 mos.-4 yrs. The Duke on 42nd St. HyperISH, ISH Dance. Ages 8+.

Family Workshops Workshops focus on a different theatrical genre or performance style related to select shows. Tickets to performance are not necessary in order to participate. Jan 19 Storytime Sing Along, 12:30pm. Ages 4+. Feb 8 Storytelling & Music, 3pm. Ages 5+. Apr 14- Circus Kids Week. Ages 7-10.

Apr 18 May 3 May 10

Theater Games, 12:30pm. Ages 6+. Breakdancing, 12 or 3:30pm. Ages 8+.

New York Aquarium West 8th St. & Surf Ave., Coney Island, 718-265-FISH. Admission for ages 3 & up: $9.95 while Aquarium is being rebuilt. Summer: Mon.-Fri. 10-6, weekends 10-7. Fall and spring: Mon.-Fri. 10-5, weekends 10-5:30. Winter: Daily 104:30. Adults $14.95, children 3-12 $10.95, srs. $11.95, under 3 free. Admission on Fridays after 3pm by donation. Purchase discount combo tickets online for Coney Island and the Aquarium Total Experience. Group rates. Parking fee. Indoor and outdoor sea cliffs exhibit, shark tank, touch tank (May-Sept.), jellyfish exhibit, 4D theater and Aquatheater features shows year ’round with dolphins (MayOct.) and sea lion. Guided tours; family workshops; summer camp; group programs.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

new york New York Aquarium continued Open

Aquarium is partially reopened after Hurricane Sandy. Visit website for details. Tax-deductible contributions to help fund recovery efforts can be made to the Wildlife Conservation Society online at wcs.org or call 800-250-1662. Admission for ages 3 & up is $9.95 during rebuilding.

New York Botanical Garden 200th St. & Southern Blvd. (I-95 Bronx River Parkway exit 4B), Bronx, 718-817-8700. Travel directions: 718-817-8779. Event line: 718-817-8777. April-Oct.: Tues.-Sun. and Mon. holidays 10-6. Adults $20/$25, srs. & students $18/$22, ages 2-12 $10/$15, under 2 free. Parking $10. 250 acres of natural and landscaped grounds include 27 outdoor gardens, a 40-acre forest, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, hands-on family garden and Everett Children’s Adventure Garden featuring discovery center, wetland trail, kids herbarium and playful outdoor landscapes. Golf cart and tram tours. Strollers are not permitted in Conservatory. www.nybg.org Selected Exhibitions Thru Holiday Garden & Train Show, a holiday tradiJan 12 tion in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Gingerbread Adventures in Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. Advance timed tickets available online. Mar 1The Orchid Show.

Apr 21 Apr 24Apr 27 JulOct

Garden Sculpture & Antiques Fair. The Edible Garden, hands-on activities at the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden.

New York City Ballet David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, 63rd & Columbus Ave., 212-496-0600. Fall, winter and spring seasons and annual presentation of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker begins Thanksgiving weekend through Dec. For information about Family Saturday performances, children’s workshops and pre-show discussions, call 212-870-5636 or email education@nycballet.com. Performance companions for kids and families are available at www.nycballet.com. Student rush tickets are offered for select repertory performances. Call student rush hotline, 212-870-7766, for information. Thru George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker.

Jan 4 Family Saturdays Interactive one-hour family program with live music and excerpts performed from NYCB’s repertory, appropriate for children ages 5 and older. Sat. 11-12. $20. Feb 22 NYCB–More Than Meets the Eye. May 10 An Exploration of Choreography.

New York Hall of Science 47-01 111th St. & 48th Ave., Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, 718-699-0005. April 1-Aug. 31: Mon.-Fri. 9:305, Sat. & Sun. 10-6. Sept. 1-Mar. 31: Tues.-Fri. 9:30-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-6. Closed Mon. Adults $11; children (2-17)/srs. $8. Sept. 1-Jun 30: Free Fri. 2-5pm and Sun. 10-11. No free hours during July and Aug. Originally built as a pavilion for the 1964-65 World’s Fair, the building and grounds now feature more than 400 hands-on exhibits devoted to science and technology including a space exhibit, biochemistry lab, technology gallery,

sports challenge, interactive math exhibition and Preschool Discovery Place. Birthday parties; sleepovers; scout and community programs. Sat & Drop-in workshops, demonstrations, videos Sun shows and make-and-take activities are related to a monthly theme. Open Historic Rocket Park, chronicles the history of rocket development and includes an Atlas rocket, original Mercury 1 capsule and interactive “climb-in” replica of the Friendship 7 Mercury capsule that carried the first American Astronaut John Glenn into orbit. AprScience Playground. Experience physics through Dec 31 outdoor play equipment– special slides, seesaws, water wheels, windmills and musical sound station. For all ages with adult supervision. Expanded area for ages 6 and younger. Flat shoes must be worn. $4. Rocket Park Mini-Golf, explore the science behind mini-golf. Weekends 10-6. $6, children & srs. $5. Selected Exhibitions Thru Gingerbread Lane, handmade gingerbread Jan 12 house display. Thru Flight of the Butterflies in 3D, 3D film traces Apr 11 the Monarchs’ migration. Thru Human Plus: Real Lives + Real Engineering, May 4 explore and create low tech and high tech tools that extend human abilities. Selected Special Events Dec 27- ReMake the Holidays, bend, twist, light, sculpt Dec 30 in holiday workshops, demos, artist installations and more. 12-4pm.

New York Philharmonic Avery Fisher Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, 212875-5656. Four Young People’s Concerts Nov.-Mar. introduce children ages 6-12 to live symphonic music. Pre-concert Kidzone Live! features demonstrations, activities and a chance to talk to musicians. Phil Teens offers $12.50 Philharmonic tickets, Saturday matinees and pre-concert events for ages 12-17. Very Young People’s Concerts use games, active listening and hands-on music-making with musicians of the New York Philharmonic to introduce children ages 3-5 to classical music. Ongoing $13.50 Student Rush Tickets, may be available up to 10 days before a concert by visiting www.nyphil.org/studentrush or the box office on day of show. Must have valid student ID. Young People’s Concerts 2013-2014 Sat. 2pm for ages 6-12; preceded by Zidzone Live!, an interactive music fair beginning at 12:45. Dec 7 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Jupiter. Feb 1 Benjamin Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. Apr 12 Johannes Brahm’s Piano Concerto No. 1. Very Young People’s Concerts 2013-2014 Sun. 12:30 & 3pm, Mon. 10:30am for ages 3-6 and their families includes games and hands-on music making. Jan 5 Brass. Apr 27 Percussion. Selected 2013-2014 Special Events May 1-3 Pixar in Concert, scores and film clips.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

New York Theatre Ballet Florence Gould Hall, 55 E. 59th St., 212-679-0401; box office 212-355-6160. Chamber ballet company presents Nov.-May repertory and family season including a one-hour Nutcracker in Dec. and Ballet for Kids & Families series for families with children ages 3-12. Individual tickets, subscriptions, group discounts available. Ballets for Kids & Families

Dec 14, 15, 22 Keith Michael’s The Nutcracker.

Jan 25-26 The Alice in Wonderland Follies. May 3-4 Carnival of the Animals & Sleeping Beauty’s Wedding.

9/11 Memorial Entrance at the intersection of Albany and Greenwich Sts., www.911memorial.org. Free, but timed visitor passes obtained from website are required for $2 service fee. Passes for same-day visits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at 20 Vesey St. Two pools in the footprints of the Twin Towers are surrounded by a plaza of more than 400 swamp white oak trees. Names of the 2,983 men, women and children who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11 are inscribed in bronze around the pools. One Calery pear tree survives from the original WTC plaza. 9/11 Memorial Preview site is located at 20 Vesey St. Memorial Museum is scheduled to open in 2014. The Tribute WTC Visitor Center 120 Liberty St., 866-737-1184. Mon.-Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Adult admission $17, students/srs./military $12, ages 6-12 $5. Five moving galleries, created by the September 11th Families’ Association, convey the tragedy of September 11 and the passionate response from people around the world. Self-guided audio tours; guided tours; school programs; lectures available. www.tributewtc.org If planning to visit a number of sites in Lower Manhattan, consider purchasing a Downtown Culture Pass, offering three days of admissions and discounts to more than 12 attractions, museums and tours, all within walking distance. www.downtownculturepass.org

The Paley Center for Media 25 West 52 St., 212-621-6800. Wed.-Sun. 12-6, Thurs. 12-8pm. Adults $10, students/seniors $8, children under 14 $5. View ongoing screenings in museum theaters daily or select your own program from over 60,000 radio and television programs to view or listen to at an individual console. Sat Re-creating Radio, two-hour workshop for groups ages 9 and older to produce old-time radio drama. Advance reservations necessary, 212-621-6600.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium 234 W. 42nd St., 212-398-3133. Daily 9am-1am. Adults $32.61, ages 4-12 $24.99, online discounts. Themed galleries feature strange and unusual, and sometimes gruesome, artifacts collected from around the world. Group and school tours; event space rentals; themed birthday parties for ages 4 and up. Download free study guides from website, www.ripleysnewyork.com.

Sony Wonder Technology Lab Sony Plaza, 550 Madison Ave. (entrance on 56th St. side), 212833-8100. Tues.-Sat. 9:30-5:30, last group 1⁄2 hr. before closing. Free, advance reservations recommended. Interactive science

center geared to ages 8-18. Learn the history of communications technology, how the technology works and try your hand at a variety of professions that rely on communication technology—recording studio, TV studio, virtual surgery, robotics, movie maker, video game production and others.

Staten Island Children’s Museum Historic Snug Harbor Cultural Center, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, 718-273-2060. Open Tues.-Sun. 12-5, 10-5 when NY Public Schools are closed. Wed. 10-8 in July and Aug. Ages 1 and up $6, under 1 free. Grandparents free on Wed. Strollers not permitted. Creative, hands-on exhibits encourage toddlers to age 10 to explore and experiment. Current exhibits include Bugs & Other Insects, Portia’s Playhouse, House About It, Great Explorations, Ladder 11 and Sea of Boats (outdoor play-space, weather permitting). Walk-in workshops and preschool activities most days and every weekend. Staten Island Botanical Garden is next door, children 12 and under are free.

Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway, Staten Island, 718-442-3100, 718-442-3101. See listing under Outdoors–Zoos.

Symphony Space 2537 Broadway at 95th St., New York, 212-864-5400. Community-based arts organization is committed to offering a continuing calendar of artistically and culturally diverse programs at the lowest possible ticket prices. Events include Just Kidding, a Saturday morning multi-art series for children ages four and older.

Theatreworks USA 212-647-1100, 800-497-5007. Creator and producer of professional theater for young and family audiences tours throughout the U.S. and presents free summer theatre at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in NYC. Touring productions and presentations, residencies and workshops available. Enter your zipcode on www.theatreworksusa.org, “class trips,” to find local performances.

Whitney Museum of American Art 945 Madison Ave. (at 75th St.), New York, 1-800-WHITNEY. Wed.-Thurs. 11-6, Fri. 1-9, Sat. & Sun. 11-6. Adults $20, students/srs. $6, under 8 free. Fri. 6-9pm pay-what-you-wish. Explore modern masterpieces of American art in Marcel Breuer’s landmark building. Free tours daily; family guides and family audio guides available in museum lobby. Whitney Family Programs Reservations required for family programs, 212-671-5300. Select Stroller Tours, tours for parents and babies Fri ages 0-18 months when museum is closed to the public. 12-1pm, registration required. Select Family Fun Art Workshop, gallery tour and art Sat activity for ages 6-10 with adult on select Sat. New theme each month. Artist’s Choice Workshop, conversations with contemporary artists and activities for ages 812 and family. Whitney Wees, interactive tour of museum galleries for ages 4-5 and family. Selected Exhibitions Ongoing American Legends: From Calder to O’Keeffe, rotating exhibition of Whitney holdings. Thru Robert Indiana: Beyond LOVE.

Jan 23

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

pennsylvania philadelphia visitors center

Sixth & Market Sts., 800-537-7676. Opens daily at 8:30am. City Hall Visitor Center: Broad and Market Sts. (east end of City Hall Courtyard), 215-686-2840. Pick up entry tickets to Independence Hall at 6th & Market St. Center. For free visitors information, tour and attraction tickets, events calendar and hotel packages, call or visit www.independencevisitorcenter.com. Pay-one-price CityPass provides admission to six Philadelphia area attractions with no waiting in main entrance ticket lines. www.citypass.com Philadelphia Pass offers free entry to over 30 attractions and line skipping privileges. www.philadelphiapass.com See phillyfunguide.com for a comprehensive entertainment calendar for the Philadelphia region coordinated by the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance. Refer to www.PhiladelphiaUSA.travel for visitor information from the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau and www.visitpa.com. the official tourism website for Pennsylvania, for information about the entire state. www.visitphilly.com is the official visitor site for greater Philadelphia providing Philadelphia information as well as travel info for Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties. Search Philadelphia Official Visitor Guide in the iTunes store to downland Philadelphia CVB’s free app on your iPad.

The Academy of Natural Sciences Logan Circle at 19th St. and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, 215-299-1000. Mon.-Fri. 10-4:30, Sat.-Sun.holidays 10-5. Ages 13 & up $15, srs., ages 3-12, college students with I.D. $13, under 3 free. Founded in 1812, this is the oldest science research institution in the Western hemisphere and home to the first dinosaur skeleton ever displayed (in 1868, found in Haddonfield, NJ, in 1858). Dinosaur Hall, African, Asian and North American Halls, live butterflies exhibit, live animals center, and changing natural science exhibits highlight the ongoing research of Academy scientists. “Outside-In” is an exploration area for young children open weekends and holidays. Library open Mon.-Fri. 1-5. Scavenger Hunt activity sheets available at Entrance Desk. Family workshops for ages 7 and up; summer camps and workshops; birthday parties; scout badges; overnight safaris and Late-Nights for families, scouts and groups ages 7-14 are offered. Sat & Crafts, activities, presentations and demonSun strations, weekends. Ongoing Butterflies!, tropical garden filled with butterflies from around the globe. Safari Overnights, interactive activities, refreshments, sleep in the galleries for ages 7-14. One adult required per 3 children. Special dates are set for scouts. 6:30pm-9am. Reservations, 215-299-1060.

Selected Exhibitions Thru Dinosaurs Unearthed, life-like dinosaurs invade Mar 30 the Academy. May 3Birds of Paradise, observe the unusual behavSep 1 iors of New Guinea’s Birds of Paradise. Selected Special Events Dec 27 All-Star Week: Dinosaur Day, dinosaur stations, craft, live animal show, ask the expert. Dec 28 All-Star Week: Live Animal Day. Dec 29 All-Star Week: Bug Day. Dec 30 All-Star Week: Weird-Thing-in-a-Jar Day, strange specimens from the past 200 years.

The Barnes Foundation 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, 888-6160277. Wed.-Mon. 10-6, Fri. 10-10. Adults $22, srs. $20, ages 6-18 and full-time students $10, 5 and under free. Advance reservations recommended. Free admission 1-6pm on the first Sun. of the month. Advance reservations required. Backpacks and backpack-type child-carriers must be checked; strollers are permitted. Dr. Albert C. Barnes amassed one of the world’s most important collections of post-impressionist and early modern paintings, including 181 paintings by Pierre-Auguste Renoir. In his home, Dr. Barnes arranged paintings, metalwork, sculpture and decorate arts of different periods, cultures, styles and genres in symmetrical wall “ensembles” based on continuity of light, line, color and space. The new museum recreates Barnes’ striking rooms and ensembles just as they were in place at his death in 1951. Adult and family audio tours are included with admission or download the apps in advance from iTunes or Google Play. School programs, educator workshops, performances, lectures, and family programs are offered. www.barnesfoundation.org Ongoing Docent-led Tours, daily. Family Audio Tour, interactive audio game designed for ages 7-12, can be downloaded in advance from iTunes or Google Play. Riddle of the Room ArtSee Gallery Kit, borrow kid-friendly tote with art cards for ages 7-12. ArtSee Activities Drop-In Program, monthly drop in arts & crafts program for families. Artkids @ the Movies, ages 6-12 and caregivers. ARTime Storytime, ages 3-5 and caregiver. 10:30-11am & 11:30-12 most Thurs. ARTime Pajama Tour, gallery exploration for ages 5 and under and caregivers. See “Programs” online for scheduled times.

Crayola Factory Two Rivers Landing, 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA, 866875-5263. Sept. 3-Dec. 30: Tues.-Fri. 9:30-4pm, Sat. & Sun. 106. Jan. 1-May 27: Tues.-Fri. 9:30-4, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5. Memorial Day-Labor Day: Mon.-Sun. 9:30-5. Admission $16.99, under 2 free, group discounts. Learn how crayons are made, participate in hands-on activities. Scout programs, birthday parties, family workshops, homeschool programs, teacher workshops available. Admission includes entrance to National Canal Museum on 3rd floor. Hugh Moore Park, located on the Lehigh River nearby, illustrates America’s canal and industrial revolution eras with canal boat rides (May-Sept.), locks, 19th century industrial ruins and the Locktender’s House Museum.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Do you want to own your own business? Work your own hours? Do you enjoy exploring New Jersey with your family? New Jersey’s Kids Guide and kidsguidenj.com offer an enthusiastic, energetic mom, dad, group of moms/dads, couple or family an ideal business opportunity! As the Kids’ Guide has grown with our family, our family has grown with the Kids Guide. And now, with mixed emotions, we begin to prepare for our kids and the Kids Guide to spread their wings and fly. As we proudly begin the celebration of our 20th year serving New Jersey communities, we are beginning to dream about our own next adventure and looking for that special team who can nurture the Kids Guide for the next generation. If you are looking for an affordable, profitable, ready-to-go business in print and online with enormous growth potential and plenty of support and training available, please give us a call. We’d love to talk to you. email kids@kidsguidenj.com or call Jean, 908.665.0607

1994~2014 Celebrating Our 20th Year

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

pennsylvania The Franklin Institute Science Museum Benjamin Franklin Parkway at 20th St., Philadelphia, 215-4481200. Science museum exhibits open daily 9:30-5. Special limited engagement exhibitions are open extended hours Thurs.-Sat. until 8pm and Sun. until 7pm. Advance tickets available online or call 877-TFI-TIXS. Adults $16.50, ages 311 $12.50, in-service teachers PreK-12 receive complimentary admission with advance registration. Founded in honor of America’s first scientist, Benjamin Franklin, the Franklin Institute is the pioneer of hands-on exhibits. The museum consists of the Science Center, Mandell Futures Center, IMAX Theater and Fels Planetarium. Traveling Science Show for groups; camp-ins; home school workshops; summer Discovery Camp. Daily Interactive shows and demonstrations daily. MayScience Park, 30 interactive science-related Sept exhibits and activities in outdoor park. Free with admission. 9:30-4, weather permitting. Wed Target Community Night, fun, educational events 5-8pm on the third Wed. of the month. Free admission and shows. Call to confirm. Thurs Night Skies in the Observatory, see different planets and stars 2nd Thurs. of every month. Aug.-May 6-9pm, June-July 7-10pm. Ongoing The Franklin Air Show, permanent exhibit simulates environment of an actual air show. The Giant Heart: A Healthy Interactive Experience, walk through a giant heart. Electricity, the exhibit most closely identified with the Franklin Institute features interactive devices and glowing graphics, sustainable dance floor, cell phone disco wall and sparking tesla coil. Ben’s Curiosity Show, reenacts some of Benjamin Franklin’s most famous and exciting experiments. Check program guide upon arrival. Amazing Machine, highly interactive exhibit allows visitors to explore the inner workings of everyday machines. Selected Special Exhibitions Advance tickets can be purchased online. Thru One Day in Pompeii, a glimpse into the daily Apr 27 life and tragic end of the ancient Roman city.

Independence National Historical Park Chestnut St. between 5th & 6th Sts., Philadelphia, 800-537-7676. Visitor Center: open daily 8:30-6. For info on park buildings, hours and free interpretive programs with park rangers, call the Visitor Center, 215-965-2305, visit www.nps.gov/inde or www.phlvisitorcenter.com. The Park is home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and another dozen sites of historic importance, such as Carpenters’ Hall, Old City Hall, Congress Hall and Franklin Court. The Historic Philadelphia Gazette, available at Visitor Centers and online at www.phlvisitorcenter.com (under National Park), describes walking tours, plays and other daily events in the historical area. Learn about Ben Franklin and printing at Franklin Court. Horse drawn carriage rides. Apr Lights of Liberty, 60 min. sound & light walking Oct tour leads visitors through the events of the Revolution. Adult and children’s tape available. www.lightsofliberty.org or 877-GO-2-1776.

Ongoing Independence Hall Tours. Obtain free, timed

New

tickets at the Independence Visitor Center at 6th & Market Sts. Tickets are given out beginning at 8:30am. Allow about 30 min. to go through security at 5th & Chestnut Sts. Tickets may be reserved up to one year in advance at 877-444-6777 (10am-10pm) or at http:// recreation.gov for $1.50 per ticket. Tickets are not required for the Liberty Bell. Cell Phone Tour, follow the “key” graphic in Independence Park and ring up historical stories at 15 different stops. 267-519-4295. Benjamin Franklin Museum, explores Franklin’s life as a private citizen and statesman. Franklin Court, Market or Chestnut Sts., between 3rd & 4th Sts. Adults $5, ages 4-16 $2.

Independence Seaport Museum Columbus Blvd at Walnut St., Philadelphia, 215-413-8655. Daily 10am-5pm. Extended summer hours: Thurs.-Sat. 107pm. Adults $13.50, children/students/srs. $10, under 2 free. Pay-what-you-wish Sundays 10-noon. Maritime history comes to life with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and tours of Cruiser Olympia from the Spanish-American War and Submarine Becuna from World War II. Winter outdoor skating on the waterfront at Blue Cross River Rink at Penn’s Landing. Access to the RiverLink Ferry to New Jersey State Aquarium. Birthday parties; group tours; overnight programs. Sat Seafarin’ Saturdays, hands-on family activity or craft in the Museum galleries. 11-1. Selected Special Events Thru Oh, Sugar!: The Magical Transformation from Feb 17 Cane to Candy, focuses on Philadelphia’s candy manufacturing history.

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania A must-see for train enthusiasts of any age, the beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch countryside of Lancaster County is home to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, Strasburg Railroad (across the street) and National Toy Train Museum just down the road. For assistance in planning a trip, visit www.padutchcountry.com. Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania Rt. 741, Strasburg, 717-687-8628. Nov.-Mar.: Tues.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 12-5. April-Oct.: Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 12-5. Adults $10, srs. $9, ages 3-11 $8, under 3 free. Housing one of the most significant collections of historic railroad artifacts in the world, the museum displays over 100 locomotives and cars from the mid-19th and 20th centuries. Strasburg Railroad One Historic Dr. (off Rt. 896), Strasburg, 717-687-7522. Enjoy a 45-min. ride aboard an historic coal-burning steam train to Paradise, PA, in your choice of five different railroad cars. Seasonal special events include train rides with Santa, the Easter Bunny, military reenactors or Thomas the Tank Engine. Station includes historic trains and rail cars, bookstore, trackside restaurant, dining car and gift shop. National Toy Train Museum 300 Paradise Lane, Paradise Twp., 717-687-8976. June-Aug.: Daily 10-5. Jan.-Mar.: Closed. Call for off season hours. Families $22, adults $7, srs. $6, ages 6-12 $4, under 6 free. A collection of hundreds of toy trains and accessories from mid-1800s to present are displayed in a modern museum built like a historic train station.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

National Constitution Center 111 S. Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, 215-409-6600, 866-917-1787. Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5, Sat. 9:30-6, Sun. 12-5. Timed tickets are purchased for entry. Adults $14.50, srs. $13, ages 4-12 $8, under 4 free. Established as an independent, nonpartisan, non-profit organization by Congress, this is the first museum dedicated to telling the story and illuminating the ideals of the U.S. Constitution through interactive and multimedia exhibits. Self-guided audio tour and interactive audio tour for 5th-8th graders are available. Freedom Rising, a 17-minute live multimedia show, traces the history of “We the People.” Scout days; home school week; summer and school break camps. The Constitution NewsWire online provides daily news about current issues related to the Constitution. www.constitutioncenter.org Selected Special Exhibitions Thru Capture the Moment: The Pulitzer Prize Dec 31 Photographs, iconic images capture the triumps and tragedies of “We the People.”

National Museum of American Jewish History 101 S. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, 215-923-3811. Tues.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-5:30. Adults $12, srs. and ages 13-21 $11, 12 and under free. Museum traces the history of Jewish life in America from 1654 to present through stateof-the-art interactive media, historical objects, photographs, films and hands-on walk-through period environments. Underlying their story is the central theme of America’s promise of freedom, democracy and opportunity for immigrants. Docent tours and talks daily; cafe; gift shop on-site or online. www.nmajh.org Selected Special Events Thru “Pop” Lubin’s Silent Film Empire.

Feb

Philadelphia Museum of Art 26th St. & Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, 215-7638100. Tues.-Sun. 10-5, Wed. & Fri. ’til 8:45. Closed Mon. and major holidays. Adults $20, srs. $18, ages 13-18 & students $14, 12 & under free. Pay what you wish on first Sun. and every Wed. after 5. Strollers are not permitted in special exhibitions on weekends or when galleries are crowded. Founded in 1876, the museum presents a full range of fine and applied arts from Asia, Europe and the U.S. spanning over 2,000 years with masterpieces in every medium. Sun Something for Every Sunday family programs include Early Bird Read & Look for ages 3-5, family gallery tour for ages 6-10, tours for tots ages 3-5, family drawing together and family art studio. Tickets are first come, first served at the Visitor Services Desks. For schedule, call 215-684-7580 or visit website at www. philamuseum.org/education. Wed Stroller Tour, gallery tour for parents and caregivers and their newborns-age 1, 11am on select Wednesdays. Ongoing Self-Guided Family Tours available at West Information Desk. Activity sheets explore a new theme in art each month. American Art Kids Tour audio guide, written for children ages 6-10, is available to rent for $5 at Visitor Services Desk in the East and West entrances. Stroller Tours, call for dates, 215-684-7580. Free Audio Podcasts can be downloaded from website, www.philamuseum.org.

Selected Exhibitions Thru Leger: Modern Art & the Metropolis.

Jan 5 Thru Mar 2 Thru Mar 14 Thru Spring Apr 27Nov 30

The Surrealists: Works from the Collection. Vermeer’s Young Woman Seated at a Virginal. Cy Twombly: Sculptures. Patrick Kelly: Runway of Love.

Selected Special Events Dec 26- Winter Family Studio, create art, 10-3, Student Dec 31 Lunch Room, ground floor. Family Gallery Tour, all ages. 11 & 1:30, meet in the Great Stair Hall at the Holiday Cart.

Philadelphia Zoo 34th St. & Girard Ave. (exit 36 I-76), Philadelphia, 215243-1100. Mar.-Oct.: Daily 9:30-5. Nov.-Feb.: Daily 9:30-4. April-Nov.: Adults $20, ages 2-11 $18. Nov.-Feb.: discounted admission. Opened in 1874, this is America’s first zoo and home to nearly 1,600 animals, many of which are rare and endangered. Exhibits include KidZooU, year-round children’s zoo and education center, avian center, African Plains, small mammal house, Bear Country, rare animal conservation center and Carnivore Kingdom. Animals move above, across and along visitor pathways on the new animal trail system. Indoor play center; petting zoo; carousel; lorikeet feeding and free-flight bird show in season. The Education Dept. offers scout badge programs, summer camps, overnights for groups and families, Zoo on Wheels outreach. For workshop information, call 215-243-5353. AprBirds of Australia, feed colorful lorikeets Oct inside outdoor aviary. Camel, draft horse & pony rides; swan boat rides; carousel; train; Zooballoon. Ongoing KidZooU, year-round children’s zoo with a farm theme is designed for children ages 2-13. Indoor and outdoor areas are completely accessible, have dedicated quiet spaces and utilize universal design.

Please Touch Museum Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, 215-581-3181. Oct.-March: Mon.-Sat. 9-4, Sun. 11-4. April-Sept.: Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 11-5. Adults and children 1 & over $16. The first museum in the country dedicated to providing cultural and educational hands-on experience for children ages 1-7 now resides in Memorial Hall, a National Historic Landmark built in 1876 as part of the country’s Centennial Exhibition. Six totally interactive exhibit zones include Roadside Attractions, Flight Fantasy, City Capers, Wonderland, River Adventures and Centennial Exploration. The 1924 Dentzel Carousel is housed in a new glass and steel Carousel House. Hands-on activities and special events are scheduled daily. Cafe; theater. 1st Target First Wednesdays, admission is $2 for Wed guests over the age of 1 from 4-7pm on the first Wednesday of the month. Ongoing Grown-Up Tours, guided tours of historic Memorial Hall are available Tues., Thurs., Sat. & Sun. at 2pm. $15. Self-guided tours anytime, pick up a map at admissions desk.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

pennsylvania Sesame Place

York County

100 Sesame Rd., Langhorne, PA 19047, 215-752-7070, 1-866GO-4-ELMO. See listing under Amusement & Water Parks.

York County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 155 W. Market St., York, 888-858-YORK. As the “Factory Tour Capital of the World,” York County capitalizes on its manufacturing tradition. From Harley-Davidson to Herr Foods, Hope Acres Dairy Farm to the Martin Guitar Company, many factories open their doors to visitors so they can learn about the production and assembly process. Age restrictions may apply on factory floors. Consult factorytours.org for details. Jun 18-21 Made in America Tours, annual open house.

Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse Above Kelly Drive near the intersection of 33rd and Oxford in East Fairmount Park, 215-765-4325. April-Sept.: Playground open Tues.-Sun. 10-6pm, until 7pm on weekends from last weekend in June to last weekend in Aug. Playhouse open year round Tues.-Sun. 10-4. Free. Six acre playground for children 10 and under includes a giant wooden slide and 50 pieces of accessible play equipment. The 24,000 sq. ft. Playhouse gives children 5 and under a chance to “drive” a train, “cook” in the kitchen and ride tricycles. Storytimes and special activities are offered frequently. www.smithkidsplayplace.org

United States Mint 5th & Arch Sts., Philadelphia, 215-408-0112, 800-USA-MINT. Gift Shop: 215-408-0230. Tours: Mon.-Fri. 9-4:30. Memorial Day-Labor Day Mon.-Sat. 9-4:30. Free, self-guided tours are offered on a first-come, first served basis pending availability. Line up at visitor entrance on 5th St. between Arch and Race Sts. Adults will be asked to provide governmentissued photo identification and many items are prohibited including strollers. For special needs accommodations, 215408-0110. www.usmint.gov

University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology 33rd & Spruce Sts., 215-898-4000. Tues. & Thurs.-Sun. 10am5pm, Wed. 10-8pm. Closed Mon., holidays and Sundays Memorial Day through Labor Day. Guided gallery tours offered most Sat. & Sun. at 1:30pm. Adults $15, srs. $13, ages 6-17 $10, 5 & under free. Founded in 1887, the Museum has sent more than 400 archaeological and anthropological expeditions to all the inhabited continents of the world. Exhibits include 12-ton sphinx and architectural remains from the ancient Egyptian palace of Merenptah, mummies and other fascinating artifacts from Asia, the Near East, Greece, Africa and the Americas. Family activities include art and artifact workshops, anthropology summer day camps for ages 7-13 and museum sleepovers. www.upenn.edu/museum 2nd Sun Family Second Sunday Workshops, Sept.-May. Drop in anytime 1-4pm for craft, touchable artifacts and gallery activities geared for families with children ages 5 and up. Dec 8 Chinese Calligraphy Scrolls. Jan 12 Hamsa. Feb 9 Hieroglyphic Valentines. Mar 9 Southwest Ceramics. Apr 13 Koi Kites. Wed P.M. @ Penn Museum, extended hours and activities every Wed. 5-8pm. Ongoing 40 Winks with the Sphinx, overnight expedition in the museum’s galleries for ages 6-12 and their parents or chaperones. Jan 17, 24, Feb 28, Mar 14, Apr 11, May 2, Jun 6 Selected Special Events Feb 8 Celebration of African Cultures, music, dance, storytelling, arts & crafts, cuisine, more. 14pm. Apr 5 Year of Sound: Drums Around the World.

baltimore baltimore area visitors center Inner Harbor, 301 E. Pratt St., Pier One, 877-225-8466. Free visitor packet and information, 1-877-BALTIMORE. Advance purchase of a 4-day Harbor Pass is a bargain providing discounted entry to five major harbor attractions. www.baltimore.org

American Visionary Art Museum 800 Key Hwy., Baltimore, 410-244-1900. Tues.-Sun. 10-6. Adults $15.95, srs. $13.95, student/child $9.95, 6 & under free. Seven galleries of unique and unusual creations, all the result of the vision of self-taught artists.

Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum 216 Emory St., Baltimore, 410-727-1539. Tues.-Sun. 10-5. Adults $6, srs. $4, ages 3-12 $3, under 3 free. Through artifacts and photographs, audio and video highlights, visitors recall the life and career of Babe Ruth.

The B&O Railroad Museum 901 W. Pratt St., 410-752-2490. Mon.-Sat. 10-4, Sun. 11-4. Adults $16, srs. $14, ages 2-12 $10, under 2 free. Site of the country’s oldest station displays a huge collection of railroad equipment, models and trains. Locomotives and rolling stock pieces on display in the spectacular 1884 Roundhouse trace the history of railroading in America. Wed-Sun Train Rides scheduled April through Dec., weekends only in Jan., weather permitting. Thru Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys, operating Dec 31 train layouts, visits and trains rides with Santa, Frosty, holiday exhibits.

Baltimore Museum of Industry 1415 Key Highway, Baltimore, 410-727-4808. Tues.-Sun. 104. Adults $12, srs. $9, students $7, ages 6 & under free. Discover the history of Baltimore in a series of recreated workshops and factories designed for hands-on exploration. Restored tugboat, 1880 printing press, oyster cannery, garment loft.

Maryland Science Center Inner Harbor, 601 Light St., 410-685-5225. Mon.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 11-5. Extended summer hours. Adults $15.95, srs. $14.95, ages 3-12 $12.95, under 3 free. Three floors of hands-on exhibits and demonstrations explore space, physics, earth sciences, dinosaurs, energy, math and the Chesapeake Bay. IMAX Theater, Davis Planetarium and also the site of the National Visitors’ Center for the Hubble Space Telescope. Selected Special Exhibitions Thru Mummies of the World.

Jan 19

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

The Maryland Zoo at Baltimore

Port Discovery

Druid Hill Park, 410-396-7102. Tickets: 410-366-LION (5466). Mar.-Dec.: Open daily 10-4. Jan. & Feb.: Open Fri.-Mon. 104. Admission Fri.-Sun.: Adults $17.50, srs. $14.50, ages 2-11 $12.50. Discounted admission Jan. & Feb. 200-acre park is home to 1,500 birds, mammals and reptiles in natural habitats. Chimpanzee forest, African watering hole, leopard lair and outstanding children’s zoo features a playful, wilderness trail and farmyard.

Inner Harbor, 35 Marketplace, 410-727-8120. Oct.-May: Tues.-Fri. 9:30-4:30, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5. Memorial DayLabor Day: Mon.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5. Admission $13.95, under 2 free. One of the largest children’s museums in the country was designed for ages 6-12 by Walt Disney Imagineering. The museum centers around KidsWorks obstacle tower, a 3-story urban climbing structure. Exhibits include a convenience store, fill’er up station, diner, studio workshop, indoor soccer and two intricate mystery mazes— one an archaeology dig in Egypt, the other an oddball dwelling where everything is slightly askew.

National Aquarium in Baltimore Inner Harbor, 501 E. Pratt St., 410-576-3800. Nov.-Feb.: Daily 10-5, Fri. 10-8. Mar.-Jun. & Sept.-Oct.: Daily 9-5, Fri. 9-8, Sat. 9-6. July & Aug.: Mon.-Thurs. 9-5, Fri.-Sat. 9-8, Sun. 9-6. Best time to visit is before 11am or after 3pm. Adults $34.95, srs. $29.95, children 3-11 $21.95. Advance tickets recommended. Unique 5-level building design with spiraling ramps and escalators leads visitors on a one-way, self-guided tour of different marine habitats. Huge ray exhibit, Atlantic coral reef, sharks, South American rain forest, Australian river gorge, touch tank, 4-D Immersion Theater. Dolphin shows daily in Marine Mammal Pavilion. Strollers must be checked; free backpacks available for children under 40 lbs. Ongoing Immersion Tours include gallery tours before the Aquarium opens, behind-the-scenes dolphin and shark tours and sleepovers with the sharks.

the arts

The Arts category includes an incredible array of performances for all ages — from parents and grandparents to young adults, teens, elementary students and young children. Shows geared specifically for young children are typically found under “Family” or “Children’s” series listings. Keep in mind that many shows are full-length performances best suited for older children and teens. Age recommendations are only guidelines. Parents must use their discretion in determining their individual child’s readiness for a theater, music or dance performance. The Arts Council of the Morris Area (973-258-5115) publishes a com plete arts calendar each quarter. Subscriptions and other benefits are available with membership.

www.kidsguidenj.com links The Music, Dance and Theatre listings below are only an introduction to the volume and variety of performing arts offered throughout New Jersey. Consult websites using the convenient links at kidsguidenj.com for complete event calendars and to check for newly added performances.

Jan 17, Feb 21, Mar 21, Apr 18, May 16, Jun 20, Jul 18, Aug 15, Sep 19, Oct 17 Target $2 Family Fun Nights.

Sports Legends Museum at Camden Yards Camden Station at the gateway to Oriole Park, 301 Camden St., Baltimore, 410-727-1539. Oct.-March: Tues.-Sun. 10-5. April-Sept.: Daily 10-5 (7pm on game days). Adults $8, srs. $6, age 3-12 $4. Combination tickets available with Babe Ruth Museum. Interactive museum showcases Maryland’s sports history, heritage and heroes of the Baltimore Orioles, Colts, Ravens and Blast, Negro League teams, the Preakness, college teams and includes the Locker Room and kids discovery zone.

MUSIC & DANCE The Acoustic Cafe Our Lady of Mercy School Cafeteria, 25 Fremont Ave. (GSP exit 172), Park Ridge, 201-573-0718. Live music coffeehouse presenting local, independent and nationally touring performers Sept.-May. Discounts for WFUV members. www.cafeacoustic.org Jan 18 Modern Man!, David Buskin, George Wurzbach & Rob Carlson with special guest Carla Ulbrich. Feb 15 The Kennedys. Mar 22 Ari Hest. Apr 26 The Grand Slambovians. May 31 Toby Walker.

AcousticLive.com A comprehensive listing of acoustic performances in the New York metropolitan area.

Afternoon Music At Unitarian Church, 4 Waldron Ave., Summit, 908-273-3245. Sunday concerts Nov.-April at 4pm, artists’ reception follows. www.ucsummit.org Jan 26 WindSync, wind quintet. Apr 13 Eric Wyrick & Mitchell Vines, violin & piano.

Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre 732-255-4071. Flamenco and Spanish dance company performs at venues throughout the state. www.alboradadance.org Jan 5 El Sueno (The Dream), Hamilton Stage for the Performing Arts, Rahway. 3pm.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

music & dance Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre continued Feb 1

Hispanic Tapas, Yardley Community Center, Yardley, PA. 7:30pm.

American Repertory Ballet Princeton Ballet School 80 Albany St., New Brunswick, 732-249-1254; Princeton Ballet School, 301 N. Harrison St., Princeton, 609-921-7758. Oct.-May season includes annual Nutcracker performances at theaters throughout the state, educational assemblies and residences for schools and school-time matinees. Nov-Dec ARB’s Nutcracker. Dec 20 Nutcracker, for local school students. 10:30am, State Theatre. Dec 21- Nutcracker, State Theatre. 1 & 4:30pm.

Dec 22 Feb 21 Feb 21Feb 22 Feb 25 Mar 8

Our Town, 10am. Romeo & Juliet, 11:45am. Performances for local school students, Ramapo College. Romeo & Juliet, 8pm. Ramapo College.

ARB at the Princeton Public Library, 7pm. Romeo & Juliet, 8pm, Raritan Valley Community College. Mar 12 Night of Fire, 7:30pm, McCarter Theatre. Mar 21 Our Town, for local schools students. 11am, Hamilton Stage at UCPAC. Mar 21- Signature Duets, 2 & 7pm. Hamilton Stage at Mar 22 UCPAC. On Pointe Enrichment Series An opportunity for students to meet the dancers, directors and choreographers of American Repertory Ballet. 5:15pm at Princeton Studio. Free, open to the public. Jan 10 Behind the Music: Stravinsky’s “Firebird,” ages 10 and up. Feb 7 Telling Stories Through Dance, ages 2 & up. Mar 7 Spring Repertory Preview, ages 5 & up. Apr 4 Dancing Your Way into College, high school students. May 2 Dancer Nutrition, ages 8 & up. Jun 6 Artists @ARB, all ages.

Appel Farm Arts & Music Center 457 Shirley Rd., Elmer, 856-538-2472. Arts and music festival, specializing in folk, blues, alt-country, roots, Celtic and acoustic rock, is held annually on the first Saturday in June. www.appelfarm.org

Bergen Performing Arts Center 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood, 201-227-1030. Year round season offers music, dance, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra concerts, comedy, Kidz Cabaret series, family and special events. See Theatre for family theatre events. Check website often for new shows. www.bergenpac.org Selected Events Dec 13 Soft Parade: Tribute to The Doors. Dec 20 Rosanne Cash. Dec 27 Robert Randolph & The Family Band, with special guest Jake Clemons. Jan 5 Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam. Jan 9 Beethoven’s 7th & 8th Symphonies, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Jan 11 Martin Sexton. Jan 23 Linda Eder. Jan 24 Don McLean. Jan 25 Kashmir: The Led Zeppelin Show.

Jan 26 Feb 5 Feb 7 Feb 8 Feb 13 Feb 14 Feb 15 Feb 19 Feb 21 Feb 23 Feb 27 Mar 2 Mar 13 Mar 15 Mar 19 Mar 20 Mar 23 Apr 6 Apr 13 Apr 17 Apr 26 Apr 27 May 1 May 9 May 31

David Sanborn Trio. Haifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel. The Fab Four. Think Pink Floyd. Patrizio Buanne. The Whispers, with special guest Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes. Almost Queen. Michael Bolton. Glen Burtnik’s British Invasion. Zappa Plays Zappa. Grieg’s Piano Concerto, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Air Supply. Celtic Nights. The Folk Reunion, with Kingston Trio, Brothers Four and Tom Paxton. Huey Lewis & the News. The Marshall Tucker Band. The Kronos Quartet. Verdi’s La Traviata, Verismo Opera. John Batiste & Stay Human Band. Queensryche. NJ Ballet’s Ballet on Broadway. NJ Ballet’s Cinderella. Music of the Masters: Beethoven & Brahms, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Dickey Betts & Great Southern & The Outlaws. Bonzo Bash, all star tribute to Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham.

Bickford Theatre Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3706. Year round performances in the 312-seat theater include special concert events, jazz showcase, Main Stage and children’s theater series. Student discounts and subscriptions available. See Theatre for additional events. Selected Special Events Dec 13, Holiday Spectacular X, Morris Choral Society Dec 15 annual holiday concert. Jazz Showcase 90-minute sets start at 8pm. Advance $15, at the door $18. Dec 4 Rio Clemente. Dec 16 Holiday Celebration, with the Warren Vache Quartet. Jan 8 Bucky’s BIrthday Guitar Summit, featuring Bucky Pizzarelli, Ed Laub, Frank Vignola and Gene Bertoncini. Jan 20 Drummer Robbie Scott & the New Deal Orchestra. Feb 3 Annual Groundhog Day Celebration. Feb 12 Kevin Dom’s Valentine’s Day Party. Feb 18 Vibes—A–Poppin, featuring Paul Midiri and Matt Hoffman.

Bloomfield Youth Band Comprised of high school and collegiate musicians, the band performs three or four public concerts each year in Bloomfield. Sponsored by the Bloomfield Recreation Commission. www.bloomfieldyouthband.org

Dec 13, Mar 15, Jun 14

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Concerts, movies, special events and children’s summer theater camp are also scheduled. Selected Special Events Dec 6Holiday Bells of Broadway…A Musical SpecDec 22 tacular.

Calvary Chorale Calvary Episcopal Church, 31 Woodland Ave., Summit, 908277-1814. Sept.-May season of concerts on Sundays at 3pm.

Centenary Stage Company Sitnik Theater at the Lackland Center, Centenary College, 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908-979-0900. Concerts and special events, jazz series, theater season and BlackBox Festival by professional Centenary Stage Company, Women’s Playwright series, family fun series, and Festival of Shows presented by members of Young Performers Workshops at end of fall, spring and summer sessions. Student rates; student matinees; Family Night on Thurs. See Theatre for more events. Selected Events Thru A Christmas Carol, The Musical.

Dec 15 Dec 15Dec 22 Dec 20Dec 22 Feb 8 Feb 16 Mar 15 Mar 21Mar 22

Young Performers Workshop Winter Festival of Shows 2013. The Nutcracker, New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet.

Bishop Townsley’s Jubilee. Rio Clemente, The Bishop of Jazz. Lunasa, Irish instrumental band. Centenary Blues Bash, with headliners Samantha Fish (Fri.) and Royal Southern Brotherhood with Cyril Neville and Devon Allman (Sat.). Mar 30 Lustig Dance Theatre. Apr 5 The Art of Motion Dance Theatre. Apr 11 Moe-tion Dance Theater. January Jazz Fest Jan 11 Igor Butman Moscow Jazz Band. Jan 18 Lao Tizer Jazz Band, featuring Karen Briggs on jazz violin. Jan 25 Sammy Figueroa & his Latin Jazz Explosion.

Central Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Arts Series 70 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-0441. Friday music concerts celebrate the holiday seasons during advent and lent. Bring your own lunch or buy at the church kitchen. All concerts Fri. 12:15-1pm. Free, open to the public.

Chatham Community Band Community band presents free concerts to Chatham and surrounding communities. www.chathamcommunityband.org Dec 7 10th Annual Holiday Concert, 7pm, Chatham High School Auditorium. May 4 Annual Spring Concert, 3pm, Chatham HS.

Coffee with Conscience 908-412-9105, www.coffeewithconscience.com. Sept.-June concerts feature professional and touring singer/songwriters. Performances at 1st United Methodist Church of Westfield, 1 E. Broad St., Westfield. Net proceeds from concerts are donated to charity. Concerts start at 8pm. Dec 15 Sean Altman & the GrooveBarbers Holiday Show, 3pm. Jan 8 The Kennedys. Feb 15 Tom Prasada-Rao & Cary Cooper. Mar 15 Kim & Reggie Harris. Apr 12 Son of TBA.

May 17 May 31

Krista Detor. David Wilcox.

Concerts at the Crossing Unitarian Universalist Church, 268 Washington CrossingPennington Rd., Titusville, concertsatthecrossing.com. Sept.May season consists of 8-9 live music concerts in an intimate 125-250 seat setting. Concerts at 7:30pm. Tickets for ages 14 and under $5, 18 and under for select shows. Jan 11 Jonathan Edwards, with special guest Birdie Busch. Feb 15 The Nuala Kennedy Trio, with special guest Kyle Carey. Mar 22 The Carole King Songbook, performed by the next generation of women singer-songwriters. Apr 26 An Evening with Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas.

Count Basie Theatre 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732-842-9000. Year round season of concerts by major recording artists, comedy, dance, theater, classical music and family events in a 1,550 seat theater circa 1926. Performing Arts Academy offers programs in acting, dance, music, rockband, jazz and an outreach program. Half-price rush tickets may be available on the day of a show at the discretion of the box office. See listing under Theatre for additional events and check website for new shows, www.countbasietheatre.org. Selected Adult & Family Events Dec 12- The Nutcracker, school show. 10am.

Dec 13 Dec 13 Dec 14Dec 15 Dec 17

Danu: A Christmas in Ireland. The Nutcracker, Company of Dance Arts.

Sleeping Beauty, The Rudolf Nureyev State Ballet Theatre. 7pm. School show, 11am. Dec 31 Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes 15th Annual New Year’s Eve Party. Jan 11 Beethoven’s 7th & 8th Symphonies, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Jan 30 Jazz at the Basie: An Evening with Branford Marsalis. Feb 13 Rhythm of the Dance, The National Dance Company of Ireland. Feb 16 Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles. Mar 7-8 The Moody Blues. Mar 12 Cesar Milan Live! Mar 14 Direct from Ireland–Celtic Nights–Emigrants Bridge. Mar 16 Cirque Ziva, Golden Dragon Acrobats. Mar 19 Swan Lake, Moscow Festival Ballet. Mar 20 Suzanne Vega, at Two River Theater. Mar 23 Pat Matheny Unity Group. Apr 3 Tao: Phoenix Rising, Japanese drumming. Apr 4 An Evening with Groucho. Apr 30 Merle Haggard. May 5 Mariachi Reyna, 8pm. School show, 10:30am. May 12 Joe Bonamassa. May 17 Get the Led Out: The American Led Zeppelin. May 22 Bobfest: A Celebration of Bob Dylan’s Birthday, featuring Pat Guadagno & Tired Horses. Selected Kids & Family Events Jan 29 Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live! Mar 17 Cirque Ziva, Golden Dragon Acrobats. School show, 10:30am. May 6 Jim Henson’s Sid the Science Kid Live.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

music & dance Crescent Concert Series

Hanover Wind Symphony

Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church, 716 Watchung Ave., Plainfield, 908-756-2468. Sept.-May series includes concerts by the Crescent Choral Society, the Crescent Singers and outside professional and amateur groups and solo artists. The annual Showcase for Exceptional Young Artists, features local young musicians, ages 16 and under, chosen by audition. 2013-14 Season Dec 15 Yuletide by Candlelight, Make We Joy!, Crescent Singers. 5pm. Free, donations appreciated. Feb 9 Showcase for Exceptional Young Artists, 3pm. Mar 9 An Enduring Reformation, festival of organists. 3pm. Apr 12 The Viennese Connection: Hummel: Haydn’s Heir, 8pm. May 18 There’s A Time for…, The Crescent Singers. 3pm.

973-887-0500. Oct.-Aug. season includes concerts throughout Morris County and annual summer Gazebo Series. Dec 15 Christmas Presence VI, 3pm. Our Lady of Mercy Church, 90 Whippany Rd., Whippany. $15, under 12 free. Mar 9 There & Back: A Musical Journey, 3pm. Mayo PAC, 100 South St., Morristown. May 28 That’s A Nice: An Evening of Italian Favorites, 7pm. Memorial Junior School, 61 Highland Ave., Whippany. Free admission.

Discovery Orchestra P.O. Box 4064, Warren, 908-226-7300. Artistic Director George Marriner Maull teaches listening skills to help people emotionally connect with classical music during intimate in-home recitals, courses and discovery concerts. Recommended for adults and ages 10 and up. Student, group and subscription discounts. Selected Events Jan 26 Intimate Afternoon: Discover the Harp, 3pm. Mar 21 Intimate Evening: Discover the Moonlight, with Roman Rabinovich, pianist. 8pm. Apr 6 Discovery Concert: Laughing with Rossini, 3pm, The Concert Hall at Drew University, Madison. Apr 27 Discover More Rossini, free listening exploration. 3pm, Wharton Music Center. Jun 1 Intimate Afternoon: Discover Broadway, with Mark Jacoby, vocalist. 3pm.

Drew University Arts The Concert Hall, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-408-3917. Drew hosts Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performances, music and theater arts department events, annual Drew Forum lecture series and the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. www.drew.edu/arts Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series 2013-2014 Purchase three concert subscription or individual tickets. 8pm, pre-concert conversation at 7:15pm. Feb 3 Pianos in Paris. Mar 17 Russian Twilight.

Friends of the Library Concert Series Meeting Room, Somerset County Bridgewater Library, N. Bridge & Vogt Dr., Bridgewater, 908-526-4016 x105. Concerts 7:30-9:30pm Sept.-June. Free, sign-up is not required. Dec 13 Madison Brass Quintet. Jan 10 Greg Giannascoli. Feb 14 Simple Gifts. Feb 22 Presley & Melody, interactive concert. 11-11:45. Mar 14 Dan Crisci. Mar 15 Kurt Gallagher. Apr 5 Yosi & Eugene, children’s concert. 11-11:45. Apr 11 Masterworks. May 9 Ken Lelen. Jun 13 Karen Zumbrunn.

Hunterdon Musical Arts, Inc. Hunterdon Symphony and Hunterdon Choral Union present a Nov-May concert season at different venues in Hunterdon County. A Saturday Strings program, chamber ensemble and orchestra camp for youth are also offered. Consult website for tickets and info, www.hunterdonmusicalarts.org. Dec 15 Holiday Concert, 3pm. Hunterdon Central HS. Feb 8 A Trip Across America: A Concert for Young People, with instrument petting zoo. 3pm, Clinton Twp. Middle School. Apr 12 Spring Concert, 7:30pm. Hunterdon Central High School. Jun 26 Pops Concert, 7pm. Deer Path Park, Hunterdon County. Premiere of “Hunterdon Overture,” marking Hunterdon’s 300th birthday.

Kean Stage Kean University Wilkins Theatre, 1000 Morris Ave., Union, 908-737-7469. Sept.-May season includes world-class music and dance artists, chamber music series, student and faculty productions, professional theater, Holocaust Resource Center events, lecture series, family and on school time performances (908-737-4349). Student rates; subscriptions. See Theatre and Film for additional events. www.keanstage.com Enlow Recital Hall Concert Series Eugene and Shelley Enlow Recital Hall, Nathan Weiss Graduate School campus, 215 North Ave., Hillside, 908737-7469. 300-seat concert hall provides an intimate atmosphere to hear renowned artists, established local musicians and Kean University music faculty members. Subscription season Oct.-May; student tickets. Recording studio. http://enlowhall.kean.edu Dec 14 Wilson Phillips “Christmas in Harmony.” Feb 9 Blind Boys of Alabama. Feb 22 Avery Sharpe Jazz Sextet. Mar 2 Emanuel Ax, piano. Mar 23 Sunday Concerts & Cafe, Arco Ensemble. Apr 5 Sutton Foster, Broadway. Apr 27 Tommy Tune “Steps in Time.” Wilkins Theatre Music & Dance Events Dec 14- The Nutcracker, New Jersey Dance Theatre Dec 15 Ensemble. Feb 2 Haifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel. Mar 9 An Afternoon with Betty Buckley. Mar 15 Swan Lake, Moscow Festival Ballet. Mar 22 Ballet on Broadway, New Jersey Ballet. Apr 6 4 Girls 4. Mar 23 Cinderella, New Jersey Ballet. Apr 13 i Balli di Primavera: The Dance of Spring, New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble. Apr 25 Kean University Dance Ensemble. Select Children’s Events Mar 23 Cinderella, New Jersey Ballet, with storyteller narration. 2pm.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College 1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor, 609-570-3333. Home to a student company and 12 resident theater companies, Kelsey Theatre offers live cultural events, family theater, children’s theater and adult events, both professional and semi-professional, year ’round. Most performances Fri.-Sun. Tickets $18-12. See Theater listings for additional events. www.kelseyatmccc.org Selected Events Dec 15 El Sueno, A Cultural Holiday Celebration. Feb 15- Reock & Roll in A Tribute to Eric Clapton Feb 16 –Journeyman. May 10- Mercer Dance Ensemble.

May 11

Light Opera of New Jersey PO Box 344, Millington, 908-903-0702. Most performances at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 140 S. Finley Ave., Basking Ridge. Specializes in shows featuring staged and costumed highlights of (light) opera and musical theatre as well as full scale productions. www.lightoperaofnewjersey.org Dec 13- Amahl & the Night Visitors, 5 & 7pm.

Dec 14 Mar 1, Mar 8

The Magic Flute, all professional cast. March 1 in Basking Ridge; March 8 in Somerville.

Livingston Symphony Orchestra Four concert series takes place Nov.-May at Livingston High School auditorium, 30 Robert Harp Dr., Livingston, 7:30pm. Student winner of annual concerto competition held in Dec. (open to ages 14-21) performs as a soloist with the orchestra in the spring. For advance ticket purchase, call 973980-1809 or email tickets@lsonj.org. www.lsonj.org Jan 19 Family Concert: Musical Journey Around the World, 2pm. Mar 22 Salute to Great Women Composers, winner of the Young Artist Competition soloist. May 31 Grand Finale: The “Titan.”

Luna Stage 555 Valley Rd., West Orange, 973-395-5551. Intimate Sunday concerts feature renowned local jazz artists. 7pm. Advance tickets or at the door. See Theatre for complete listing and theatre events. www.lunastage.org Jazz Series Feb 16 Vocalist Sarah Partridge. Mar 9 Pianist Eric Olsen & Alto Saxophonist Lou Caimano. Apr 27 Guitarist Bob DeVos & Pianist Oscar Perez.

Lyrica Chamber Music Presbyterian Church of Chatham Township, 240 Southern Blvd., Chatham Twp., 973-309-1668. Concerts are held on Sundays at 3pm. Sept.-May subscriptions; single tickets; students are free. Outreach program for school groups and special needs children. Feb 9 Cellist Ashley Bathgate; Percussionist Ian Rosenbaum; Guitarist Mak Grgic. Apr 27 Lyric Chamber Orchestra, with Kent Place Chamber Singers.

Mason Gross School of the Arts Rutgers University, 33 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732932-7511. Student and faculty dance, music, theater and visual art events Sept.-May. Student rates.

Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South St., Morristown, 973-539-8008. 1,200-seat venue offers a wide array of contemporary music, jazz, dance, drama, comedy, speakers, children’s programming and classical music. Create-your-own subscriptions; family subscriptions; student and group discounts. School-time shows for school groups, Performing Arts Academy, master classes, school residency programs and high school internship/community service programs are available. See Theatre for additional events and check website for newly added events. www.mayoarts.org Ongoing The Starlight Series, storytelling, jazz, chamber music and drama featuring local artists in the Theatre’s intimate Starlight Room. Selected Children & Family Events Dec 13- The Nutcracker with Full Orchestra, New Jersey Dec 24 Ballet. Ages 4 & up. Jan 5 Sing-A-Long Grease. Mar 8 The Golden Dragon Acrobats present Cirque Ziva, ages 5 & up. May 9 Tap Factory, all ages. May 18 Cinderella: New Jersey Ballet, with storyteller narration. Ages 4 & up. Selected Adult & Family Events Jan 11 Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam. Jan 25 Don McLean in Concert, with special guest Judy Collins. Jan 29 John Hiatt & Lyle Lovett. Jan 31 Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. Feb 1 Guitar Passions, Latin & Brazilian sounds. Feb 21 Michael Bolton. Feb 22 Sarah Chang, violin. Mar 5-6 The Moody Blues. Mar 13 The Irish Rovers. Mar 18 Starlight on Stage: Cello & Piano Sonatas of Beethoven, Brahms & Prokofiev. Mar 20 Spyro Gyra: Morning Dance 35th Anniversary Tour. Mar 22 Natalie Merchant. Mar 27 Keb’ Mo’. Mar 28 Tao: Phoenix Rising, Taiko drumming. Mar 30 New Jersey Jazz Society presents Bria Skonberg with special guest Tia Fuller. Apr 12 Broadway Showstoppers. Apr 29 Merle Haggard & the Strangers. May 1 MOMIX: Botanica. May 8 Dickey Betts & Great Southern and The Outlaws. May 10 Tito Puente, Jr. May 17 New Jersey Ballet: Ballet on Broadway.

McCarter Theatre Center for the Performing Arts 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. Sept.-May season of internationally known artists in music, jazz, cabaret, dance, theater, world and special events. Extensive education programs include student matinees, touring shows, theater classes, group backstage tours, in-school programs and professional development. Discount subscriptions for ages 35 and under. See Theatre listings for additional events. Selected Adult & Family Events Feb 7 Sleeping Beauty, State Ballet Theatre of Russia. Feb 14 Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles. Feb 28 The Peking Acrobats.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

music & dance Metropolitan Orchestra of New Jersey PO Box 6, Short Hills, NJ 07078. A full symphonic orchestra composed of local professional and amateur musicians performs three concerts in the fall, winter and spring. Suggestion donation $15. www.metropolitanorchestra.org Mar 16 Winter Concert, 3pm, Millburn High School, 462 Millburn Ave., Millburn. Jun 7 Spring Concert, 7pm, Millburn Middle School, 25 Old Short Hills Rd., Millburn.

The Minstrel Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, 21 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-335-9489. Friday concerts feature hand-made music from local and internationally known performers. Second Fri. of the month is an open stage/audition night. www.folkproject.org Fridays 8pm.

Jan 19-Jun 1

Montclair State University Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University, One Normal Ave., Montclair, 973-655-3059. Box office: 973655-5112. School of the Arts theater, music and dance performances and professional arts events are presented through Peak Performances. Every seat, every performance is $15. www.montclair.edu/arts

Morris Museum See listing under Bickford Theatre.

Mar 15 Apr 26 May 17

Freedy Johnston. Lucy Kaplansky. James Maddock.

Music at Morristown United Methodist Church, 50 Park Place (on the Green), Morristown, 973-538-2132. 30 min. Music at Noon concerts in Dec. & Jan. Abendmusik concert series Feb.-April. Music at Noon 30-min. recitals at 12:15pm Thursdays. Light lunch is available for purchase 11:30-1:30pm. Dec. concerts are free; Jan. concerts suggested donation: Adults $6, srs. $5, students with ID free. Dec 12 Max Morden, trumpet and friends. Dec 19 Christmas Singers. Jan 9 Clarinets-a-la-Mode. Jan 16 Express Male, vocal ensemble. Jan 23 Diane Goldsmith, pianist. Jan 30 A Musical Heritage, violin, cello, piano. Abendmusik Concerts 7:30pm. Adults $20, srs. $15, students with ID free. Advance ticket discounts. Feb 8 Uptown Flutes. Mar 8 Paul Zeigler, pianist. Apr 5 Water Music, F. Allen Artz, organist, with chorus and choir.

Music in the Somerset Hills 973-339-7719. Seasoned professionals along with amateur musicians present classical concert series Oct.-June at venues throughout Somerset County. Opportunities for community musicians to participate include a Community Concert Band, open to ages 14 and older, Somerset Hills Community Chorus, and summer vocal and instrumental camps for grades 3-12. Dec 21 A Holiday Festival for Organ & Brass, St. John on the Mountain, Bernardsville. Feb 16 Mark Moliterno in Recital, Lamington Presbyterian Church, Bedminster. Mar 16 Caritas Chamber Chorale, Lamington Presbyterian Church, Bedminster. Apr 6 A Vocal Celebration!, Chapel at Gill St. Bernards School, Gladstone. May 3 French Masters Choral Concert, St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church, Peapack.

Mostly Music

New Jersey Ballet Company

Morrow Memorial Methodist Church, 600 Ridgewood Rd., Maplewood; Temple Emanu-El, 756 E. Broad St., Westfield, 973-762-0108. Five-concert chamber music series Sundays at 2:30pm in Maple wood and 7:30pm in Westfield. Subscriptions; single tickets; students ages 10-21 no charge.

973-597-9600, njballet.org. Oct.-May season features performances throughout the state, Sunday matinees with narration for kids and annual Nutcracker performances. Adult, sr., student tickets. Call box office of venue for individual tickets.

Dec 15, Jan 26, Mar 30, May 4

Musica Morristown 224 E. Broad St., Suite 6, Westfield, 908-232-9400. The New Philharmonic of New Jersey presents concerts in collaboration with the Westfield Symphony Orchestra.

Music at the Mission West Milford Presbyterian Church, 1452 Union Valley Rd., West Milford, 800-613-1455, 973-728-4201. Non-profit, volunteer organization presents live music in a 160-seat coffeehouse atmosphere. Open mic is usually held on the first Sat. of the month. Check website for new shows. www.musicatthemission.org Dec 14 Heather Maloney. Feb 15 Cliff Eberhardt.

New Jersey Festival Orchestra 908-232-9400. Formerly Westfield Symphony Orchestra. Oct.-May season includes performances at The Presbyterian Church in Westfield and at other venues throughout the state. Student discounts; Music Caravan school outreach program. Dec 31 An’ All That Jazz!, Westfield High School. Feb 22 The Gypsy Spirit, Bickford Theatre, Morristown. Mar 22 Natlie Merchant, in concert with NJFO Ensemble. Mayo PAC, Morristown. May 31, Rebirth & Renewal, with Morristown HarmonJun 1 ium Choral Society. Westfield & Basking Ridge.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra 908-603-7691, email info@njio.org. Recognized nationally for its “intergenerational excellence,” NJIO brings together all ages and abilities in its three ensembles. No auditions. Students and seniors play together alongside professional mentors, learning and sharing the experience of musical performances. www.njio.org

New Jersey Jazz Society Sponsors classic jazz concerts, film series, jazz socials, college jazz performances, annual JazzFest and co-sponsors Jazz at the Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum and summer Jazz for Shore. Membership, open to youth and adults, includes subscription to Jersey Jazz Journal, invitation to musical events and CD discounts. Visit website for upcoming events. www.njjs.org Ongoing Jazz Socials, 3-5:30pm monthly at Shanghai Jazz, Madison. $10, members free. See website for schedule, www.njjs.org. Live Jazz, Tues.-Sun. at Shanghai Jazz, Madison. www.shanghaijazz.com

New Jersey Performing Arts Center One Center St., Newark, 1-888-GO NJPAC. 2,750-seat Prudential Hall and 500-seat Victoria Theater in Newark. Classical music, international dance, world music & jazz, contemporary concerts, theater and family series. Subscriptions; individual tickets; $10 student rush tickets offered at the box office one hour before curtain time. Subject to availability, valid ID required, limit two per student. Also see Theatre listings. Selected 2013-2014 Season Events Dec 8 The Apollo Theater’s Ellington at Christmas. Dec 14 Kwanzaa Children’s Festival. Forces of Nature Dance Theatre. Jan 17 Dance Theatre of Harlem, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration. Jan 21 Pixies. Jan 25 Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company. Feb 8 NJSO Music of the Beatles: Classical Mystery Tour. Feb 9 Sleeping Beauty, Rudolf Nureyev State Ballet Theatre from Russia. Feb 13 Rain: The Beatles Experience. Feb 28 Paddy Moloney & the Chieftains. Mar 2 Jazz Meets Sports. Mar 8 Mystic India: The World Tour. Mar 30 An Acoustic Evening with Jon Anderson. Apr 4 The Music of Led Zeppelin, New Jersey Symphony Chamber Orchestra. Apr 11-12 Shen Yun. May 10-11 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Jun 7 Cirque de la Symphonie, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra & acrobatic feats. Dorthaan’s Place Jazz brunch series at NICO Kitchen & Bar. 11am & 1pm. Adults $45, children $15. Dec 15 Cecil Brooks III & Band. Jan 19 The Steve Turre Quartet. Feb 23 The Jon Faddis Quartet. Mar 23 The Antoinette Montague Quartet. Apr 27 The Mulgrew Miller Trio. Family Series–Music & Dance Events Dec 13 Cirque Eloize, Cirkopolis.

Feb 22

Feb 23

Black Violin. Kev Marcus & Wil B. Family workshop available. All-State Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band & Women’s Choir. The Peking Acrobats.

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra 60 Park Place, 9th floor (admin. office), Newark, 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476). Performances at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark; State Theatre, New Brunswick; Richardson Auditorium, Princeton; War Memorial, Trenton; bergenPAC, Englewood; Count Basie Theatre, Red Bank, and Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. Subscriptions; flex passes; individual tickets; student discounts. $10 student rush tickets available at the door one hour prior to most concerts. $25 Class Pass gives students unlimited tickets all season,www.njsymphony.org/ClassPass. Program notes for classical concerts are available online before concerts. www.njsymphony.org 2013-2014 Family Concert Series Performances at 2 pm, NJPAC, Newark. The young and young-at-heart discover the orchestra through engaging concerts and pre-concert adventures. One hour before each concert, learn more about the music, participate in fun activities, play games and meet musicians. Three-concert series for kids is $24; individual tickets on sale in Aug. Feb 8 Music of the Americas, a musical journey through the Americas. Jun 7 Meet the Orchestra, meet each instrument through Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. 2013-2014 NJSO Pops Series Dec 14-15 Home for the Holidays, with John Pizzarelli and chorus of top high-school vocalists. Feb 8-9 Music of the Beatles: Classical Mystery Tour. Apr 26-27 The Wizard Oz with Orchestra, film accompanied by NJSO. Jun 7-8 Cirque de la Symphonie, flyers, acrobats, dancers, jugglers and more perform in time to classical music. Selected Special Events Apr 4 The Music of Led Zeppelin, New Jersey Symphony Chamber Orchestra.

New Jersey Youth Symphony 570 Central Ave., Murray Hill, 908-771-5544. Three orchestral groups, jazz orchestra, string, percussion and wind ensembles and two flute choirs for youth in grades 3-12 present orchestra and chamber music concerts from Sept-May. Auditions are held annually each June for the following year. Summer camp.

Opera at Florham Lenfell Hall, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, 973-4438620. A professional company in residence at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Opera at Florham presents cabaret, recitals, operatic performances and an annual vocal competition. Student ticket discounts. www.operaatflorham.com Jan 26 Songs & Arias of Love. Mar 23 Opera in the Springtime. Apr 27 New Voices, vocal competition. Jun 1 Arias for the Summer.

Please Note Events are subject to change or cancellation. Confirm dates before you go at www.kidsguidenj.com.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

music & dance Outpost in the Burbs 40 South Fullerton Ave., Montclair, 973-744-6560. Presents affordable, quality acoustic entertainment Sept.-June at the First Congregational Church of Montclair, the Unitarian Church of Montclair, 67 Church St., or the Montclair High School auditorium, 100 Chestnut St. Advance tickets by mail or through Ticketweb, 866-468-7619. Check website for new shows, www.outpostintheburbs.org. Jan 10 Willie Nile & Band. Feb 21 Marshall Crenshaw, with Loretta Hagen.

Plainfield Symphony Orchestra PO Box 5093, Plainfield, NJ 07061, 908-561-5140. New Jersey’s oldest community symphony presents concerts Sept.-March at Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church, E. 7th St. and Watchung Ave., Plainfield. Subscriptions; student rates; children 12 and under are free. Concerts begin at 7pm. Dec 7 Broadway Stars Over Plainfield, Cy Coleman & Friends. Feb 8 Annual Free Afternoon Family Concert, Helen Shen, NJYPC Gold Medal Winner, piano. 3pm. Mar 29 Spring Awakenings, Claudia Hu, NJYPC Silver Medal Winner, piano. May 3 Magnificent Mahler.

Princeton Folk Music Society Concerts at Christ Congregation Church, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton, 609-799-0944. Monthly concerts on the third Fri. feature music by new singer-songwriters and well-known folk musicians in an intimate, friendly setting. 8:15pm. Dec 20 Nowell Sing We Clear. Jan 17 Jennie Avila, with Stephen Wright & Friends. Feb 21 Jeff Warner, “Mountains to the Sea.” Mar 21 David Jones. Apr 18 The Honey Dewdrops. May 16 Tom Chapin.

Princeton Pro Musica PO Box 1313, Princeton, NJ 08542, 609-683-5122. Oct.-May season presents choral masterworks and other works at central New Jersey locations. Dec 22 Handel Messiah, 2pm, Patriots Theater, Trenton. Mar 15 Rutter Requiem, Howells Requiem & Cathedral Favorites, 8pm, University Chapel, Princeton. May 11 Handel, 3pm, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton.

Sanctuary Concerts Presbyterian Church of Chatham Twp., 240 Southern Blvd., Chatham, 973-376-4946. Oct.-May acoustic music series fea-

tures concerts by well-loved national, regional and local artists. 8pm. Tickets from $25, unless noted; series discount. Check website for added shows. www.sanctuaryconcerts.org Jan 11 Patty Larkin, Muriel Anderson and Beppe Gambetta. Feb 22 Cheryl Wheeler with special guests Pesky J. Nixon. Mar 1 John McEuen and David Amram. Mar 29 Shawn Mullins with special guest Blind Boy Paxton. May 10 Marshall Crensaw plus Jm Boggia. May 17 Modern Man and Buskin & Batteau.

South Orange Performing Arts Center One SOPAC Way, South Orange, 973-313-2787. Intimate 415-seat theater presents performances by major artists in theater, dance, comedy, music, family events, school time performances and performances by the Seton Hall University Arts Council. See Theatre for additional events. Selected Adult & Family Events Dec 15 Winter Concert, Youth Orchestras of Essex County. Dec 20 John Studebaker, Blues in the Loft. Jan 4 Leon Russell. Jan 10 Marc Cohn with special guest Paula Cole. Jan 11 Josh Ritter. Jan 18 Greg Brown & Steve Forbert. Jan 23 True Blues, with Corey Harris, Guy Davis & Alvin Youngblood Hart. Jan 26 Quartet Senza Misura, Juilliard @ SOPAC. Feb 15 Susan Werner & David Wilcox. Mar 2 Shawn Colvin. Mar 4 Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano. Mar 8 Johnny Winter. Mar 23 Mason Jennings. Mar 28 Iris Dement & Red Molly. Mar 30 PIano Reflections: Imagery, Color & Emotion, Juilliard @ SOPAC. Apr 13 Trio Voce, Juilliard @ SOPAC. May 6 Sparrow & Ska Rebirth Band, presented by Seton Hall University Arts Council.

South Orange Symphony Orchestra Performances at South Orange Middle School, 70 N. Ridgewood Ave., South Orange, www.southorangesymphony.org or email sosymphony@aol.com. Not-for-profit community orchestra, founded in 1949, presents three to four free classical concerts per year to the local community.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Splatter Concerts Shows at Ukrainian American Cultural Center, 60 North Jefferson Rd., Whippany, splatterconcerts@yahoo.com. Blues and American roots music, some rock, folk and country. Under 18 are free or under $5. www.splatterconcerts.com

State Theatre 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-246-7469. Full schedule of live music, Broadway, dance, opera, symphony and variety events plus a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s series and HD broadcasts. Student matinees (open to students and general public), artist-in residence program and professional development workshops for teachers. For education programs, call 732247-7200, ext. 534 or visit www.statetheatrenj.org/education. Students Meet the Arts offers discount tickets for students of all ages to attend select live and HD-broadcast classical music and dance programs for $7 per ticket (plus $3 facility fee). Also see Theatre listings. Visit website for added shows, www.statetheatrenj.org. Selected Adult & Family Events Jan 24 moe. Feb 9 Music of the Beatles: Classical Mystery Tour with the NJSO. Feb 20 Foreigner. Feb 23 Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Feb 28 Eileen Ivers. Mar 4 Dweezil Zappa Guitar Masterclass: Dweezilla On The Road, ages 16+. Zappa Plays Zappa, concert, 8pm. Mar 13 The Oak Ridge Boys: Boys Night Out. Mar 16 Rhythm in the Night, Irish Dance Spectacular. Mar 20 Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.

Mar 28 Apr 12 Apr 27 May 2 May 6 Jun 8

Bowfire. The Sleeping Beauty, Moscow Festival Ballet. The Wizard of Oz with the NJSO. ABBA The Concert. Boz Scaggs. Cirque de la Symphonie with the NJSO. Selected Children & Family Events Feb 17 Hub City Spectacular by Big Apple Circus, State Theatre Family Day. Feb 24 Ladysmith Black Mambazo, performance for schools. Feb 28 Eileen Ivers: Beyond the Bog Road, performance for schools. May 1 A Young Personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to the Orchestra, performance for schools.

Summit Symphony Oct.-May concerts at Summit High School, 125 Kent Place Blvd., Summit. No admission; sponsored by Summit Board of Recreation, local businesses, and Friends of the Symphony. Concerts begin at 3pm, pre-concert lecture at 2:15pm. Mar 16 Soloist Peter Seidenberg, cello. May 4 Young Artists Concert.

Underground Concert Series Hotline: 973-762-0119, www.undergroundconcerts.com Eclectic world and folk music is brought to different venues in Maplewood.

Union County Performing Arts Center Main Stage: 1601 Irving St., Rahway, 732-499-8226; Hamilton Stage: 360 Hamilton St., Rahway. Check website for added events, www.ucac.org. See Theatre for additional events.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

music & dance Union County Performing Arts Center continued

WBGO

Selected Main Stage Events Dec 12 The Wizards of Winter, “A Trans-Siberian Experience.” Jan 5 El Sueno: The Dream, a Spanish Nutcracker. Split Level Concerts in The Loft at UCPAC Dec 14 Jeanne Jolly. Dec 31 Peter Karp, Sue Foley Band, Big City Breakout opening. Jan 11 Amanda Shires. Feb 8 Catie Curtis. Feb 22 Drew Nelson. Mar 15 Baillie & the Boys with special guest Alyssa Bonagura. Mar 22 Carsie Blanton. Apr 19 Rod Picott. May 3 Cliff Eberhardt. May 17 Tracey Bonham and Jim Boggi, at Hamilton Stage. Jun 7 Vance Gilbert. Hamilton Stage Selected Events Dec 21 An Irish Musical Christmas with GIRSA. Jan 8 Snarky Puppy, jazz, funk, world music. Jan 30 Gary Bartz Quartet: The Life & Music of Jackie McLean. Feb 7 Steve Turre Quartet: The Life & Music of JJ Johnson. Mar 14 Luis Perdomo meets Ravi Coltrane: The Art of the Duo. Mar 29 Lionel Loueke Trio.

88.3FM. 54 Park Place, Newark, 973-624-8880. Membersupported station presents jazz, blues, public affairs programming, and sponsors a free children’s jazz series in the fall and spring. www.wbgo.org

Voorhees Ballet Theatre Lowe Dance Studio, 1207 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd., Voorhees, 856-784-0062. Students interested in pursuing a professional career in the performing arts present two major performances annually and perform at special community events. Dec 13- The Nutcracker, Voorhees Middle School Dec 15 Theatre. Sugar Plum Fairy Tea & Show, 3-4pm, Dec. 14.

Watchung Arts Center 18 Stirling Rd., Watchung Circle, Watchung, 908753-0190. Non-profit, volunteer-run center offers new art exhibitions each month, performances in music, comedy, adult and family improv, and classes in drawing, photography and yoga. www.watchungarts.org

WBGO Kids Jazz Concert Series 88.3FM. 54 Park Place, Newark, 973-624-8880. Membersupported radio presents a free children’s jazz series in the fall and spring. Check website for spring dates and locations, www.wbgo.org/kidsjazz.

Woodbridge Music on Main Street United Methodist Church of Woodbridge, 69 Main St., Woodbridge, 732-602-6015. Top contemporary acoustic artists perform in an intimate 250-seat church sanctuary Sept.-May. See Arts in the Parks for free outdoor summer concert series. Check website for new shows. www.woodbridgeartsnj.org

RADIO

WFUV 90.7FM, public radio from Fordham University. www.wfuv.org

WNTI 91.9FM, public radio from Centenary College. www.wnti.org

WNYC 820AM, 93.9FM, New York public radio. Radio Rookies initiative for teens. www.wnyc.org

WQXR 105.9FM. NYC classical station airs McGraw Hill Young Artists Showcase on Wed. at 9pm to showcase the talents of young emerging artists. Classics for Kids airs Saturdays at 8am. www.wqxr.org

theatre new jersey theatre alliance

The New Jersey Theatre Alliance, an alliance of professional theaters in New Jersey, publishes a calendar four times a year. They also sponsor Family Week at the Theatre and The Stages Festival annually in Mar. and publish an online catalog at www.classactnj.org, which details educational and outreach programs offered by the group’s members and affiliate theaters. For information, contact New Jersey Theatre Alliance, 8 Marcella Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052, 973731-6582, email info@njtheatrealliance.org, or visit their website at www.njtheatrealliance.org.

www.njartstix.org A program of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance offers an overview of performances across the state and the opportunity to purchase discounted tickets 48 hours in advance of showtime or one week in advance with a $30 yearly donation.

www.culturalaccessnetwork.org Website lists all accessible theaters, museums, cultural attractions and performing arts centers around the state.

the stages festival march 2014 Professional theatres across the state offer free and discounted tickets to performances and special events including theatrical workshops, classes and backstage tours. For a complete roster of events, visit www.stagesfestival.org.

Actors Shakespeare Company St. Peter’s University, Dineen Hall, 2641 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Jersey City, 609-807-8258. Main stage productions, family classics and staged readings to be announced.

Radio Disney

ArtsPower Field Trip Series

1560AM, http://radio.disney.go.com.

9 Sand Park Rd., Suite 6, Cedar Grove, 973-239-0100. Nonprofit professional touring theater presents original school-

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

theatre time shows at theaters throughout the state and is also available for booking at school assemblies or other events. Consult website for schedule and to purchase tickets. www.artspower.org

Bergen Performing Arts Center 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood, 201-227-1030. Oct.May season offers music, dance, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra concerts, comedy, family and special events. See Music & Dance for additional performances. Selected Events Feb 9 Masters of Illusion. Mar 12 Jim Belushi & The Chicago Board of Comedy. Selected Family Events Dec 15 Angelina Ballerina, holiday musical. Dec 21 A Christmas Carol, musical. Mar 8 Fancy Nancy The Musical. Apr 25 Sid the Science Kid. Kidz Cabaret Series Jan 18 Bill Blagg, Illusionist. Feb 15 Casey Carle’s Bubblemania. Apr 12 Hip Hop Connection.

May 25 Children’s Theatre Dec 8 The Christmas That Almost Wasn’t, adapted from stories written by children. Dec 14 Teddy Bear Tea, treats, festive performance and a visit from Santa for families with children ages 3-8. 11, 1 & 3pm. Reservations required.

Broadway Theatre of Pitman 43 S. Broadway, Pitman, 856-384-8381. Six main stage shows, a Dec. holiday show and children’s theater season are presented in a former movie and vaudeville theater from 1926. Concerts, movies, special events and children’s summer theater camp are also scheduled. 2013-2014 Mainstage Season Dec 6Holiday Bells of Broadway…A Musical SpecDec 22 tacular. Jan 17- Cats.

Feb 9 Mar 7Mar 30 Apr 25May 18 Jul 11Aug 3

The Foreigner. South Pacific.

Rapunzel. Treasure Island. Three Little Pigs. Snow White. Aladdin.

Brookdale Performing Arts Center 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732-224-2411. Music, dance, and theater department performances Sept.-May and free outdoor summer theater. Apr 4-13 Monty Python’s Spamalot. Jul 10-20 Brookdale Summer Shakespeare Ensemble.

Brundage Park Playhouse Carrell Rd., Randolph, 973-989-7092. Community theater with Feb.-Dec. performances, improv comedy, For Kids by Kids performances, youth theater classes and summer camp. Performances on Fri. & Sat. at 8pm, Sunday 2pm. 2013 Season Dec 6The Disappearance of Santa Claus.

Dec 15

Centenary Stage Company Sitnik Theater at the Lackland Center, Centenary College, 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908-979-0900. Concerts and special events, jazz series, theater season and BlackBox Festival by professional Centenary Stage Company, Women’s Playwright series, family fun series, and Festival of Shows presented by members of Young Performers Workshops at end of fall, spring and summer sessions. Student rates; student matinees; Family Night on Thurs. See Music & Dance for more events. Centenary Stage Company Feb 21- The Liar, adapted by David Ives.

Mar 9 Apr 9, 16, 23 Women Playwrights Series 2014. Family Fun Series 2pm, Sitnik Theater of the Lackland Center. Jan 12 The Willow Girl, Catskill Puppet Theatre. Feb 2 The Gizmo Guys, comedy juggling act. Mar 16 Michael Dubois Solo Circus. Apr 13 The Illusionary Magic of Brad Ross. Young Audience Series Stage adaptations of classic children’s literature third Sat. at Centenary Theater in the Seay Building on campus. 11am, unless noted. Feb 15 If You Give A Moose A Muffin. Mar 15 If You Give A Mouse A Cookie. Apr 12 Shake It Up–Shakespeare for Students.

Chatham Community Players

Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up? 2013-2014 Children’s Theatre Season One hour live shows designed for ages 3-9. Dec 17- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Dec 22 Jan 24Jan 25 Feb 20Feb 22

Mar 20Mar 22 Apr 11Apr 12 May 9May 10 Jun 6Jun 7 Jul 17Jul 19

The Frog Prince. The Wizard of Oz.

23 N. Passaic Ave., Chatham, 973-635-7363. In addition to the Player’s regular season, Fantasy Theater, the children’s entertainment arm of the Players, presents a production in Jan. Subscriptions, student rates and group rates are offered. 2013-2014 Season Mar 7-22 Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure, by Stephen Dietz. May 9-24 Barnum, musical. Jul 26Jersey Voices, one-act festival of New Jersey Aug 3 playwrights.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

theatre Count Basie Theatre 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732-842-9000. Year round season of concerts by major recording artists, comedy, dance, theater, classical music and family events in a 1,550 seat theater circa 1926. Performing Arts Academy offers programs in acting, dance, music, rockband, jazz and an outreach program. Half-price rush tickets may be available on the day of a show at the discretion of the box office. See Music & Dance for concert and dance listings and check website for new shows, www.countbasietheatre.org. Selected Children & Family Events Jan 29 Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live! Mar 17 Cirque Ziva, Golden Dragon Acrobats. School show, 10:30am. May 6 Jim Henson’s Sid the Science Kid Live.

Cranford Dramatic Club 78 Winans Ave., Cranford, 908-276-7611. Community theater has been presenting plays and musicals in Cranford since 1918. Oct.-May season features 3 major productions and annual holiday children’s show in Dec. Subscriptions, sr. & student discounts available. Performances Fri.-Sun. Dec 6-8 Dear Edwina, musical. Feb 14- Spring Awakening, musical. Ages 16+.

Feb 28 May 2-17 Doubt, A Parable, by John Patrick Shanley.

Crossroads Theatre 7 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-545-8100. Regional theater presents 4-play main stage season with a focus on literary works that examine the African American experience. Subscription, student and group discounts are offered. Dec 5-15 Holiday Jubilee. Apr 3-13 Lift, by Walter Mosley.

Darress Theatre 615 Main St., Boonton, 973-334-9292. Former 1920 vaudeville house presents theater, special events and film screenings, some with live organ accompaniment. Check website for schedule.

DeBaun Auditorium Stevens Institute of Technology, Castle Point on Hudson, 5th & Hudson Sts., Hoboken, 201-216-8933. Student and faculty theater, music and dance events, Spoken Word series and special events.

Dover Little Theatre 69 Elliot St., Dover, 973-328-9202. Community theater presents Oct.-June subscription series and special events. Performances Fri. & Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 2pm. 2013-2014 Season Dec 7-21 Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!). Mar 15- The Pillowman, by Martin McDonagh.

Mar 29 Jun 14Jun 18

Stage Door, by Edna Ferber and George S. Kaufman.

Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre Oakes Center, 120 Morris Ave., Summit, 908-514-9654. Professional non-profit theater produces innovative mainstage productions, new play readings, holiday special, cabarets, improv comedy shows and offers an internship program for high school and college students, community outreach program and Summer Theater Conservatory for ages 10-17.

2014 Season Rx, by Kate Fodor.

Feb 13Mar 2 Apr 24May 11 Mar 22 May 1, May 28 Aug 1

Motherhood Out Loud, New Jersey premiere. Multiple Personality Disorder, improv comedy. “Meet the Artist” Series, two new play readings. Dreamcatcher Junior, family show by theatre camp students ages 10-17.

Florham Park Players 299 Brooklake Rd., Florham Park, 973-377-9078. Community theater sponsors Jerry Gibson Memorial Youth Summer Theater, a summer theater experience for ages 13-19.

4th Wall Theatre In residence at Westminster Arts Center, Corner of Franklin & Fremont Sts., Bloomfield, 973-566-9255, box office 973-7489008 ext. 279. 4th Wall Theatre is dedicated to producing diverse and lesser known plays and musicals. Theater arts training for children, teens and adults is offered in partnership with the New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts (973-5669700). Subscriptions; student and group discounts. Feb 21- Sunday in the Park with George, music and Feb 23 lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Jun 6Floyd Collins, music and lyrics by Adam Guettel, Jun 15 book by Tina Landau.

The Garage Theatre Group Becton Theatre at Fairleigh Dickinson University, 960 River Rd., Teaneck, 201-569-7710. Professional artists present Oct.-May season focusing on plays in development for offBroadway and regional productions. Youth conservatory productions and summer camps for youth. Dec 13- Shrek The Musical.

Dec 15 Feb 6-23 The Legacy, by Adam Siegel. World premiere.

George Street Playhouse 9 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-246-7717. Professional theater dedicated to the production of new American plays offers subscriptions, student subscriptions, new play readings, student matinees and issue-oriented touring theater productions for grades K and up (732-846-2895 x117). Year-round theater classes for ages 5 to adult. 2013-2014 Mainstage Season Thru Clever Little Lies, by Joe DiPietro.

Dec 22 Jan 28Feb 23 Mar 11Apr 6 Apr 22May 25

Assisted Living, new play. I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti, comedy. Our Town, by Thornton Wilder. Partnership with Mason Gross School of the Arts.

The Growing Stage: The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey Historic Palace Theatre, Rt. 183, Netcong, 973-347-4946. Professional children’s theater presents Sept.-May Main Stage season and experimental works in the Studio Presentation Series. Group rates, subscription series, creative arts programs, birthday parties. Touring show available for schools and community organizations.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

2013-2014 Season Fri. at 7:30pm, Sat. & Sun. at 4pm. Thru Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, musical.

Dec 22 Feb 7Mar 2 Apr 18May 18

The Secret Life of Hubie Hartzel, comedy about the perils of 5th grade. Ages 8+. Knuffle Bunny–A Cautionary Musical, based on the beloved picture book.

Hudson Theatre Ensemble Sixth St. & Park Ave., Hoboken, 201-377-7014. Community theater company presents adult shows and Silly on Sixth children’s series.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse 88 Rt. 173W (Rt. 78 exit 12), Hampton, 908-730-8007, 800-4477313. Dinner theater presents musical reviews, light-hearted comedies, annual holiday revue and summer musical. Thru A Playhouse Christmas 2013, holiday revue.

Dec 22

Kean Stage Kean University Wilkins Theatre, 1000 Morris Ave., Union; or Eugene and Shelley Enlow Recital Hall, Nathan Weiss Graduate School campus, 250 North Ave., Hillside, 908-7377469. Sept.-May season includes world-class music and dance artists, chamber music series, student and faculty productions, Holocaust Resource Center events, lecture series, family and on school time performances (908-737-4349). Premiere Stages (www.kean.edu/premierestages), a professional equity theater company in residence, develops new plays and offers family-friendly summer musical theater, theater camp for middle school and high school students and school residencies for grades 1-12 during the school year. Student rates; subscriptions. See Music & Dance and Film for more events. 2013-2014 Theatre Events Feb 21- In the Heights, by Quiara Alegria Hudes.

Mar 1 Apr 4Apr 12

The Lover, by Harold Pinter.

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College 1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor, 609-570-3333. Home to a student company and 12 resident theater companies, Kelsey Theatre offers live cultural events, family theater, children’s theater and adult events, both professional and semi-professional, year ’round. Most performances Fri.-Sun. Tickets $18-12. www.kelseyatmccc.org Selected Full-Length Events Dec 13-14 Annie The Movie, Sing-A-Long. Jan 10-19 Love! Valour! Compassion! Jan 24-26 The Actor’s Nightmare & A Night in the Theatre. Jan 31The 39 Steps.

Feb 9 Feb 21Mar 2 Mar 8-23 Mar 28Apr 13 Apr 25May 4 May 16-25 May 30Jun 8

Master Class. Peter Pan, The Musical. TBA, musical. HAIR. The Great American Trailer Park Musical. Shrek, The Musical.

Jun 13-22 Much Ado About Nothing. Kelsey Kids Events Dec 20-22 The Nutcracker, New Jersey Youth Ballet. Jan 11 Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, Theatreworks USA. Feb 8 The Monster Who Ate My Peas, ArtsPower. Apr 5 Stuart Little, Theatre IV. May 17 The Emperor’s New Clothes, Kaleidoscope Theatre.

Luna Stage 555 Valley Rd., West Orange, 973-395-5551. Professional equity theater presents new works in an intimate 99-seat black box theater and 40-seat studio theater. Mainstage plays, literary and play reading series, stand-up comedy nights and jazz series are offered as well as education programs, including performing arts workshops for ages 7-17, adult acting classes and school-time matinees. Student tickets $10 with student id 30 min. before showtime. www.lunastage.org 2013-14 Mainstage Season Jan 30- Master Harold & The Boys, by Athol Fugard.

Mar 2 Apr 10May 11

Marisol, by Jose Rivera, winner of 1993 Obie Award.

Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South St., Morristown, 973-539-8008. 1,200-seat venue offers a wide array of contemporary music, jazz, dance, drama, comedy, speakers, children’s programming and classical music. Create-your-own subscriptions; family subscriptions; student and group discounts. School-time shows for school groups, Performing Arts Academy, master classes, school residency programs and high school internship/ community service programs are available. See Theatre for additional events and check website for newly added events. www.mayoarts.org Selected Children & Family Events Jan 12 Fancy Nancy: The Musical, ages 4-12. Jan 26 Dinosaur Train Live! Buddy’s Big Adventure, ages 2-6. Feb 9 Pinkalicious, ages 4-12. Mar 3 Charlotte’s Web, ages 4-10. Mar 25 The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other Erc Carle Favorites, ages 5 & up. Apr 2 Are You My Mother?, ages 3-8. Apr 8 Erth: Dinosaur Zoo, ages 5 & up. Apr 13 The Ugly Duckling & The Tortoise & The Hare, ages 4-8. Apr 18 Scooby Doo Live!, ages 5-12. Apr 27 Sid the Science Kid–Live, ages 2-6. Selected Adult & Family Events Jan 17 Million Dollar Quartet, musical. Feb 8 Masters of Illusion, ages 6 & up. Feb 13 Green Day’s American Idiot, musical. Adult content and strong language. Feb 14 Forbidden Broadway: Alive & Kicking, satirical roast of Broadway hits. Feb 28- Disney’s Beauty & the Beast, all ages.

Mar 1 Mar 8 Mar 14 Mar 19 May 2

The Golden Dragon Acrobats present Cirque Ziva, ages 5 & up. Cesar Millan Live! Rock of Ages, musical. Ages 13 & up. Bring It On, musical. All ages.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

theatre McCarter Theatre Center for the Performing Arts 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. Sept.-May season of internationally known artists in music, dance, theater, world and special events. Extensive education programs include student matinees, touring shows, theater workshops, group backstage tours, in-school programs and professional development. Discount student tickets available. See Music & Dance for additional events. Selected Children & Family Events Jan 25 Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train LIVE. Mar 8-9 Cirque Eloize Cirkopolis. 2013-2014 Theatre Season Dec 6A Christmas Carol.

Dec 29 Jan 10Feb 9 Apr 1May 4 Apr 9May 3

Fences, August Wilson. The Figaro Plays: The Barber of Seville. The Figaro Plays: The Marriage of Figaro.

Classical music, international dance, world music & jazz, comedy, contemporary concerts, film and family series. See listings under Music & Dance. Family Series–Theatre Events Mar 1 Mammoth Follies, giant dinosaur puppets. Family workshop available. Mar 29 We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, musical. Grades pre-K-3. Family workshop available. May 17 Stuart Little, Dallas Children’s Theatre. Jun 7 Cinderella The Remix, hip hop version. Family workshop available.

New Jersey Repertory Company Lumia Theatre, 179 Broadway, Long Branch, 732-229-3166. Professional theater presents new plays, classics and staged readings. Senior, student, group discounts. Thru Middlemen, New Jersey premiere, by David Dec 15 Jenkins. Jan 16Admit One, world premiere, by Wendy Feb 16 Yondorf. Mar 6Date of a Lifetime, new musical.

Apr 6

Monmouth University Performing Arts

Ocean Professional Theatre Company

Pollak Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch, 732-2636889. Sept.-May season of contemporary concerts and special events, The Met Live and live theater in HD, visiting writers, film, theater, dance and children’s events in an intimate 700seat theater. In summer, outdoor theater is presented on the Shadow Lawn Stage. For birthday party packages, 732571-3473. Selected Children & Family Events Dec 8 Peter Pan, Theatreworks. Grades 1-5. Feb 18 Seussical, Theatreworks. Grades K-5. Apr 15 Teacher from the Black Lagoon & Other Story Books, musical revue. 10am. Apr 29 Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo, with large-scale dinosaur puppets. Selected Adult & Family Events Mar 5-13 Little Shop of Horrors. National Theatre of London Live Broadcasts 7pm, Pollak Theatre. Jan 30 Shakespeare’s Coriolanus. Feb 13 Frankenstein. Feb 27 War Horse, original stage production.

Barnegat High School Auditorium, 180 Bengal Blvd., Barnegat, 609-312-8306. April-Dec. season includes Broadway shows and music, a family holiday production and four children’s shows during summer. Apprentice program for high school students is also offered in the summer. 2013 Main Stage Dec 6-15 Holly Jolly Holidazzle. Stafford Twp. Arts Center, Manahawkin.

Montclair State University Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University, One Normal Ave., Montclair, 973-655-5112, box office; 973-655-3059, info. School of the Arts theater, music and dance performances and professional arts events are presented through Peak Performances. All tickets $15. www.peakperfs.org

Montclair Operetta Club (MOC) Performances at Westminster Arts Center on the campus of Bloomfield College, corner of Franklin & Fremont Sts., Bloomfield, 973-744-3133. Community theater presents two musical productions in fall and spring from Broadway classics to contemporaries. Student rates.

Morris Museum See listing under Bickford Theatre.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center One Center St., Newark, 1-888-GO NJPAC. 2,750-seat Prudential Hall and 500-seat Victoria Theater in Newark.

Paper Mill Playhouse Brookside Drive, Millburn, 973-376-4343; 973-379-3636. Professional theater presents musicals, plays, concerts, children’s theater and school time performances. Flex pass options, group, sr. and student subscriptions. Student rush tickets may be available the day of performance in person with student ID. Conversation series with cast and directors prior to curtain is held for some dates. 2013-2014 Season Thru Oliver, musical.

Dec 29 Feb 19- The Other Josh Cohen, new musical. Mar 16 Apr 9South Pacific, Rodgers & Hammerstein. May 4 May 28- Grease. Jun 29 2013-2014 Children’s Theatre Dec 7 The Little Engine That Could Earns Her Whistle, ArtsPower. Ages 4+. Dec 14- A Christmas Carol, TheatreWorks USA. Ages Dec 15 4+. Mar 22 Junie B. Jones, TheatreWorks USA. Ages 4+. Apr 26 Charlotte’s Web, TheatreWorks USA. Ages 4+. Apr 27 Seussical, TheatreWorks USA. Sensory-friendly performance, ages 4+. May 3 Are You My Mother?, TheatreWorks USA. Ages 4+. May 10 The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe, TheatreWorks USA. Ages 4+. Jun 14 Disney’s Aladdin Jr., Paper Mill Theatre School. Sensory-friendly performance, ages 5+.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Sensory Friendly Performances The theater environment is altered to provide a sensoryfriendly, comfortable and judgment-free space for all families. Apr 25 “Meet Your Seat” Open House, 4-6pm. Apr 27 Seussical, TheatreWorks USA. Ages 4+. Jun 13 “Meet Your Seat” Open House, 4-6pm. Jun 14 Disney’s Aladdin Jr., Paper Mill Theatre School. Sensory-friendly performance, ages 5+.

Paper Moon Puppet Theatre 171 First Ave., (on W. Garfield), Atlantic Highlands, 732-7750290. Presents marionette adaptations of international fairy tales, fables and folk tales, offers touring productions, puppetry classes for ages 6-12 and birthday parties. Each performance features interactive pre-show with the audience. All seats $9. Thru The Nutcracker.

Jan 4 Opens Jan

Beauty & the Beast.

Passage Theatre Company Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 E. Front St., Trenton, 609-392-0766. Sept.-June season includes Mainstage productions, new play development and theater programs for ages 8-22.

Patriots Theater at the War Memorial Memorial Dr. in downtown Trenton’s historic Capitol Complex, 609-984-8400. Owned by the state of New Jersey, Patriots Theater hosts limited music, dance and special events. Dec 7 The Nutcracker., American Repertory Ballet. Dec 31 Trenton’s Annual New Years Eve Concert, New Jersey Capital Philharmonic.

Pax Amicus Castle Theatre 23 Lake Shore Dr. (Exit 26 Rt. 80), Budd Lake, 973691-2100. Year round season of Broadway and off-Broadway revivals; professional productions of Shakespeare’s plays for students; comics and other performing artists; and a season of theater for children. School time performances. Call or visit website for 2014 season. www.paxamicus.com 2013 Children’s Theatre Thru The Little Drummer Boy of Bethlehem, new Dec 21 musical.

Plays-in-the-Park Stephen J. Capestro Theater, Rt. 1S (1 block south of Menlo Park Mall), Edison, 732-548-2884. Middlesex County Department of Parks & Recreation’s community theater presents summer outdoor and indoor performances at Roosevelt Park and annual holiday show at the State Theatre in New Brunswick (see summer Arts in the Park). Dec 28- Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Dec 29 State Theatre, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-246-7469.

Playwrights Theatre 28 Walnut St., PO Box 1295, Madison, 973-514-1787. Professional theater devoted to the development of new plays and writers for the stage. World-premiere productions; free new play roundtable readings; extensive yearround educational programs for young people and adults, including special teen classes and classes for teachers (also see Enrichment and Camps). www.ptnj.org

Porch Light Theatre 555 Broad St., Glen Rock, 201-857-3520. Community theatre presents Main Stage season, youth and family productions featuring members of the youth performance troupe, and special events. Studio classes for youth and adults; summer theater; school programs; workshops and mini-camps. Main Stage Jan 10- The Last 5 Years, contemporary musical.

Jan 18 Mar 7Mar 9 Apr 11Apr 19 Jun 20Jun 28

Rent, special student production. True West, by Sam Shepard. Next to Normal, musical.

Youth & Family Shows Jan 31- Peter Pan The Musical, performed by musical Feb 2 theater students in grades 1-5.

Premiere Stages Zella Fry Theatre, Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave., Vaughn Eames Building, Union, 908-737-7469. See listing under Kean Stage. www.kean.edu/premierestages

Pushcart Players 261 Bloomfield Ave., Suite A, Verona, 973-857-1115. Touring company presents family theater and productions for schools, communities and other organizations. Visit website for a list of public performances and booking information. www.pushcartplayers.org

Raritan Valley Community College Edward Nash Theatre, Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd. (Rt. 78 exit 26 or Rt. 22W), North Branch, 908-725-3420. Major Artists Series, Tuesdays with Stories Series, Club 28 cabaret series, Sampler Series for younger children, Family Series for children ages 8 and older and their families, Tiny Tots Series and school-time performances. Student and series discounts. See additional listings under Music & Dance. Selected 2013-2014 Theatre Events Dec 15 A Christmas Carol, Nebraska Theatre Caravan. Dec 18 It’s A Wonderful Life, WVL Radio Theatre. Feb 6 Driving Miss Daisy, Walnut Street Theatre. Apr 12 The Guru of Chai, Indian Ink Theatre. Apr 13 The Fantasticks, Nebraska Theatre Caravan. 2013-2014 Family Series Recommended for ages 8 and up. 7pm. Tickets $15. Jan 31 The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer, Perth Theatre Company. Feb 8 Popovich Comedy Pet Theatre, Gregory Popovich. May 3 Circus Incognitus, Jamie Adkins. 2013-2014 Sampler Series Recommended for ages 4 & up. 1 & 3:30pm. Tickets $10. Mar 1 The Snail & the Whale, Tall Stories. May 4 Peter Pan, TheatreworksUSA. 2013-2014 TinyTots Series Recommended for ages 2 and up. 10, 1:30 & 4pm. Apr 10 Hatched, Treehouse Shakers. 2013-2014 SchoolTime Performances Weekday performances for groups and individuals. 908526-1200 x8267.

Nov-May

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

theatre Rhino Theatre

Somerset Valley Playhouse

247 Wanaque Ave., Pompton Lakes, 973-248-9491. Community theater presents a season of adult and children’s productions and offers theater workshops, summer camps and coaching sessions for kids, teens and young adults. Dec 20- The Night Before Christmas.

Rt. 514 (689 Amwell Rd.), Neshanic Station, 908-369-7469. Year ’round community theater staged in a 1900’s 2-room schoolhouse. Adults $18, srs./students $16. 2013-2014 Season Dec 6Yes Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus, by Andrew Dec 22 J. Fenady. Jan 17- Lost in Yonkers, by Neil Simon.

Dec 22 Mar 21Mar 23

Back to the 80s, musical.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, Drew University campus, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-408-5600. Professional theater dedicated to the presentation of Shakespeare and other classic masterworks. Subscriptions, FlexPass, student rates and $12 student rush tickets available for April thru Dec. season. First performance of each production is designated “paywhat-you-can.” Pre-performance talks and post-performance discussions on select dates. Shakespeare Live!, one-hour production followed by discussion for grades 3-12, available to tour schools, libraries and other organizations, 973-8456742. 2013 Season Dec 4Pericles, by William Shakespeare.

Dec 29 Dec 16

Something Merry This Way Comes, one-nightonly holiday event. Summer Outdoor Stage Family-friendly performances are presented in the Greek amphitheater at the College of St. Elizabeth, Morris Twp. Jun.-Jul.

Shea Center for Performing Arts – WPLive William Paterson University, 300 Pompton Rd., Wayne, 973720-2371. Arts hotline: 973-720-ARTS. Jazz series, professional touring artists, family and schooltime shows, university theater and music performances and lecture series presented Sept.-May. Also sponsors annual NJ playwrights contest. Selected Adult & Family Events Dec 20 It’s A Wonderful Life, Live from WVL Radio Theatre. Feb 7 Downtown Abbey: An Insiders View, with Jessica Fellowes, niece of creator Lord Julian Fellowes. Selected Children & Family Events Dec 15 Snow White’s Christmas, Kaleidoscope Theatre. Feb 22 Doktor Kaboom! Look Out! Science is Coming! Feb 24 Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream, American Family Theater. Mar 28 Seussical, Theatreworks USA Theater for Children with Autism. Mar 30 Henry & Mudge, Theatreworks USA. Apr 27 The Ugly Duckling, Lightwire Theatre

ShowKids Invitational Theatre (SKIT) Shows at Voorhees High School, 256 County Rd. 513, Glen Gardner, 908-638-5959. Non-profit family community theater group provides theater experience for children ages 5-18. Costumes and props available for rent. Jan 25- Annie.

Feb 2 Apr 26May 4

Shrek The Musical.

Feb 2 Mar 7Mar 23 Apr 25May 11 Jun 6Jun 22 Jul 18Aug 3

Murder is a Game, by Fred Carmichael. 9 to 5 The Musical, music & lyrics by Dolly Parton, book by Patricia Resnick. Wedding Secrets, by Joe Starzyk. Treasure Island, by Ken Ludwig & Robert Louis Stevenson.

State Theatre 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-246-7469. Full schedule of live music, Broadway, dance, opera, symphony and variety events plus a children’s series and HD broadcasts. Student matinees (open to students and general public), artist-in residence program and professional development workshops for teachers. For education programs, call 732247-7200, ext. 534 or visit www.statetheatrenj.org/education. Also see Music & Dance listings. Visit website for added shows, www.statetheatrenj.org. Selected Events Dec 28- Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Dec 29 Middlesex County Dept. of Parks & Recreation. Feb 7-8 Memphis, The Musical. Mar 7-8 Rock of Ages. Apr 3-4 Cirque Dreams Rocks. May 30 West Side Story. Selected Children’s Events Feb 17 Hub City Spectacular by Big Apple Circus, State Theatre Family Day. Feb 19, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, performance Feb 21 for schools, Crossroads Theatre. Mar 10- Mayhem Poets, performance for schools.

Mar 11 Mar 18, Mar 21 Mar 24 Apr 11 Apr 17Apr 20

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, performance for schools, Crossroads Theatre. Leo Lionni’s Swimmy Frederick & Inch by Inch, performance for schools. Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo. Sesame Street Live, “Can’t Stop Singing.”

Milk & Cookies Interactive series, recommended for ages 3-8 and their families, features storytelling, music, puppetry and more. Six events in fall and spring are offered once a month on select Saturdays. Free, advance registration required. 732-2467469 ext. 545 or email jcunha@statetheatrenj.org to be added to the mailing list.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Stony Hill Players Oakes Outreach Center, 120 Morris Ave., Summit. Community theater produces Nov.-June shows and offers Pebble Players youth theater program. www.stonyhillplayers.org Jan 24- The Marriage of Figaro.

Feb 2 Apr 4-13 Agatha Christie Trilogy.

The Strollers Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Rd., Maplewood, 973761-8453. Community theater presents three plays and one children’s production during Nov.-May season. Student discounts, subscription rates. 2014 Children’s Theatre Jan 10- Once Upon A Pandora’s Box, by Monica Flory.

Jan 19 2014 Mainstage Feb 28- Twelve Angry Jurors, by Reginald Rose.

Mar 8 May 2May 17

Little Women, The Musical.

Studio Playhouse 14 Alvin Place, Montclair, 973-744-9752. Community theater presents Sept.-June season with main stage and Magic Trunk children’s productions. Student rates; opening night tickets for main stage shows are half price based on the adult ticket price. Mainstage Shows Jan 10- Black Coffee, by Agatha Christie.

Jan 25 TBA. Mar May 30- Spring Awakening, rock musical, mature conJun 14 tent. Magic Trunk Shows for Children Performances 1:30 & 3:30pm Sat. & Sun. All tickets $8. Dec 7Snew White.

Dec 15 Feb 15Feb 23 Apr 26May 4

Goldilocks. Jack & the Beanstalk.

The Summit Playhouse 10 New England Ave., Summit, 908-273-2192. Community theater presents three shows a year and sponsors Kaleidoscope Theatre, a summer youth theater program. Feb 21- The Last Night of Ballyhoo, by Alfred Uhrey.

Mar 9 Apr 25May 10

Harvey, by Mary Chase.

The Theater Project in Maplewood/Cranford Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Rd., Maplewood, 973763-4029. Mainstage production, staged readings, playwrights group; performance classes; sponsors annual Young Playwright’s Competition for students ages 13-18.

Tri-State Actors Theater Performing Arts Center, Sussex County Community College, Newton, 973-383-0510. Professional regional theater presents March–Dec. season, new play reading series and hosts the Tri-State Actors Youth Company, a theater training program for children, teens and adults. 2013-2014 Season Dec 12- Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

Dec 22

Two River Theater Company 21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank, 732-345-1400. Sept.-June season presents theater series and education programs which include student matinees, summer theater classes, internships for high school and college students and professional development. Senior and student discounts are available. 2013-2014 Events Jan 25- As You Like It, by William Shakespeare.

Feb 16 Feb 4-8 Feb 22Mar 23 Mar 13Mar 16 Apr 5Apr 27 May 31Jun 22

A Little Shakespeare: As You Like It, 75-min. version. $10 student matinees; $15 public performances. Pinkolandia, by Andrea Thome. A New Musical Theater Event, with New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Details TBA. Trouble in Mind, by Alice Childress. Third, by Wendy Wasserstein.

Selected Children & Family Events Dec 7A Wind in the Willows Christmas, family Dec 29 musical. Apr 26 Hatched: Life on the Farm, movement-theater especially for ages 2-6.

Surflight Theatre

Union County Performing Arts Center

Beach & Engleside Aves., Beach Haven, 609-492-9477. Presents well-known children’s stories, fully staged professional theater, comedy and concerts all summer to vacationers and residents of Long Beach Island. Surflight To Go brings professional theatre to schools or organizations. Ice cream concoctions at the ShowPlace Ice Cream Parlour next door are named after Broadway show tunes and served by singing and dancing waiters and waitresses during summer. (609-492-0018 for seating info.) Main Stage Thru Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.

Main Stage: 1601 Irving St., Rahway, 732-499-8226; Hamilton Stage: 360 Hamilton St., Rahway. Concerts, jazz, comedy, theater, film, family and children events are presented on the Main Stage in a 1,300 seat vintage 1920’s auditorium, in a 50seat Loft Theater or at the new Hamilton Stage, a 199-seat Main Stage and 60-seat Front Room Theater. Student/sr. discounts. Summer theater camp for ages 5-15. Check website for added events, www.ucac.org. See Music & Dance for additional events. Main Stage Events Dec 19- It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play by Dec 21 Joe Landry. Jan 17- Assassins: A Musical, Bullet Theatre Company.

Dec 22

Jan 26

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

theatre Union County Performing Arts Center continued Sensory Friendly Theatre 60-min. performances with no intermission, general seating, lowered sound, lights up and freedom to talk. “This Is My Theatre” picture packet may be downloaded from website. Jan 12 Things That Go Bang, The Little Orchestra Society. Mar 16 Sleeping Beauty, New Jersey Ballet. May 18 Aesop’s Fables, puppeteer Jim West.

Villagers Theater Franklin Twp. Municipal Complex, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset, 732-873-2710. Community theater presents Main Stage, Black Box (adult themes), teen and children’s productions Oct.-June. Summer theater arts program; children’s parties. Mainstage Feb 7Little Shop of Horrors.

Feb 23 Mar 28- Wrong Window, spoof of Alfred Hitchcock’s Apr 13 Rear Window. KidsVill Children’s Theatre Dec 14- Crystal & the Christmas Snowman, by Alice

Dec 22 Mar 8Mar 16

Emma & the Lost Unicorn.

Westfield Community Players 1000 North Ave. W., Westfield. Box office, 908-232-1221, opens one week before show. Office, 908-232-9568. Community theater presents Oct.-May season. Jan 11- Regrets Only, by Paul Rudnick.

Jan 25 Butterflies Are Free, by Leonard Gershe. Mar 8Mar 29 May 10- A Streetcar Named Desire, by Tennessee May 31 Williams.

Women’s Theater Company In residence at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Rd., Parsippany, 973-316-3033. Professional theater company dedicated to development, promotion and inclusion of women in all aspects of theater production. Oct.-May season. School touring productions and theater workshops available. Mar 7Working, musical.

Mar 23

Young People’s Theatre Performances 1pm at Park Middle School, 580 Park Ave., Scotch Plains. One-hour children’s performances. $6 at door. Feb 1 Happily Ever After, A Cinderella Story. Feb 8 Celebrating New Jersey, Pushcart Players.

FILM & SPEAKER SERIES Centenary Stage Company Great Authors Out Loud Series The Edith Bolte Kutz Theater of the Lackland Center, Centenary College, 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908979-0900. Free presentations of the classics, 3pm. Feb 9 Three French Farces. Apr 6 The Merchant of Venice.

The Drew Forum Drew University, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-408-3917. Annual speaker series Sept.-May features renowned world

leaders, opinion shapers and scholars from a variety of fields. Each new season series is announced in Aug. www.drew.edu/forum Jan 29 Ezra Klein. Feb 26 Walter Isaacson. Apr 3 Barbara Walters.

Kean Stage Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave., Union, 908-737-7469. www.keanstage.com Holocaust Resource Center Hosts events, free lecture series, teacher training and maintains an extensive library and resources for K-12 teachers. www.kean.edu/~hrc Kean Stage International Film Series Award-winning modern foreign films are shown Sundays at 3pm in the Jules Schwartz Lecture Hall, Stem Building, 1075 Morris Ave., 908-737-7469. $9, free with Kean ID. Jan 19 The Intouchables. Jan 26 Leonie. Feb 2 The Rule. Mar 30 Pictures from a Hiroshima Schoolyard. Apr 6 Kon-Tiki. Apr 13 Stories We Tell.

Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South St., Morristown, 973-539-8008. 1,200-seat venue offers a wide array of contemporary music, jazz, dance, drama, comedy, speakers, children’s programming and classical music. www.mayoarts.org Jan 5 Sing-A-Long Grease. Feb 27 Deepak Chopra, book signing follows lecture. Mar 14 Cesar Millan Live!

Monmouth University Performing Arts Pollak Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch, 732-2636889. Sept.-May season of contemporary concerts and special events, The Met Live and live theater in HD, visiting writers, film, theater, dance and children’s events in an intimate 700seat theater. VIsiting Writers Series Mar 25 Richard Blanco, President Obama’s Inaugural Poet. 4:30pm, Pollak Theatre. Apr 24 Louise Gluck, winner of the Pulitzer Prize, former Poet Laureate. 4:30pm, Pollak Theatre. 2013-14 On Screen in Person Screenings of new independent American films are followed by a Q&A with their respective filmmakers. Free, open to the public. 7:30pm in Pollak Theatre. Feb 20 The Exquisite Corpse Project. Mar 20 Wonder Women! The Untold Story of American Superheroines. Apr 14 United in Anger: A History of ACT UP. Provost Film Series 2013-2014 series focuses on “Fateful Choices: Power & Identity in the Promised Land.” 7:30pm, Pollak Theatre. Free and open to the public. Jan 28 Walk on Water. Feb 18 The Time that Remains. Mar 10 Fill the Void. Apr 8 A Bottle in the Gaza Sea. Art Now 4pm, Pollak Theatre. Artist lectures, screenings, workshops. Free. Mar 6 Jeninfer Levonian, stop motion painter.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

New Jersey Performing Arts Center One Center St., Newark, 1-888-GO NJPAC. Movies That Matter Series Films produced to spur social action and panel discussions are designed for high school students and the public. 6:30pm. Apr 10 Last Call at the Oasis, highlights the urgency of facing the global water crisis. May 22 Chavez.

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra 60 Park Place, 9th floor (admin. office), Newark, 1-800ALLEGRO. Performances at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark; State Theatre, New Brunswick; Richardson Auditorium, Princeton; War Memorial, Trenton; bergenPAC, Englewood; Count Basie Theatre, Red Bank, and Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. www.njsymphony.org. Apr 26- The Wizard of Oz, with orchestra. April 26 in Apr 27 Newark; April 27 in New Brunswick.

Shea Center for Performing Arts – WPLive William Paterson University, 300 Pompton Rd., Wayne, 973720-2371. Arts hotline: 973-720-ARTS. Apr 4 Broadway Icon Harold Prince, Distinguished Lecturer Series.

South Orange Performing Arts Center One SOPAC Way, South Orange, 973-313-2787. Feb 5 Poetry Out Loud, regional competition for grades 9-12. 10am. Free admission.

storytime Barnes & Noble Clark 1180 Raritan Rd., Clark, 732-574-1818. No storytimes in Dec. Tues Storytime, 7pm. Wed Storytime, 10:30am. Livingston Livingston Mall, 112 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston, 973758-1310. Tues Storytime, 10am. Thurs Storytime, 10am. Springfield 240 Rt. 22W, Springfield, 973-376-8544. 9am-11pm 7 days a week. Monthly “Events” newsletter lists full schedule of activities. Mon Preschool Storytime, 11am. Thurs Preschool Storytime, 11am.

LIBRARIES

Besides being one of the best sources for information on local events and a fun place to spend some quiet time together, libraries offer many activities for kids of all ages from babies to young adults, including storytimes, crafts, films, games, book clubs, special performances and summer reading programs. Pre-registration is required for most programs and space fills quickly, especially for preschool events. Programs are free and typically limited to library cardholders, although non-residents may be welcome if space is available. Stop by your library to pick up a complete schedule of upcoming events.

essex county Livingston Ruth L. Rockwood Memorial Library Robert H. Harp Dr., Livingston, 973-992-4600 livingston.bccls.org

Maplewood Memorial Library Main Library: 51 Baker St., Maplewood, 973-762-1622 ext. 5005; Hilton Branch: 1688 Springfield Ave., 973-762-1688 www.maplewoodlibrary.org

Millburn Free Public Library 200 Glen Ave., Millburn, 973-376-1006 x115, 973-921-2192

Montclair Public Library 50 S. Fullerton Ave., Montclair, 973-744-0500, ext. 2236 www.montclairlibrary.org

South Orange Public Library 65 Scotland Rd., South Orange, 973-762-0230 www.sopl.org

West Orange Public Library 46 Mt. Pleasant Ave., West Orange, 973-736-0198 www.wopl.org

middlesex county Middlesex Public Library 1300 Mountain Ave., Middlesex, 732-356-6602 www.middlesexlibrarynj.org

monmouth county

Books of Wonder

Monmouth County Library

18 W. 18th St., New York, 212-989-3270. One of the city’s oldest and largest independent bookstores specializes in both old and new children’s literature. Original illustrations; rare and collectible books; author visits; weekly storytime. www.booksofwonder.com

Headquarters: 125 Symmes Dr., Manalapan, 732-431-7220 Visit website for the locations of twelve branch libraries. www.monmouthcountylib.org

Scholastic Inc. 557 Broadway (between Prince & Spring Sts.), Soho, 212-3436166. Regularly scheduled free events and activities.

morris county Boonton Holmes Public Library 621 Main St., Boonton, 973-334-2980. www.boontonholmeslibrary.org

Library of The Chathams 214 Main St., Chatham, 973-635-0603. www.chatham-library.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

storytime morris county Chester Library 250 W. Main St. (Rt. 24), Chester, 908-879-7612. www.chesterlib.org

Denville Public Library 121 Diamond Spring Rd., Denville, 973-627-6555. www.denvillelibrary.org

East Hanover Library 415 Ridgedale Ave., East Hanover, 973-428-3075 www.easthanoverlibrary.com

Florham Park Free Public Library 107 Ridgedale Ave., Florham Park, 973-377-2694 www.florhamparklib.org

Lincoln Park Public Library 12 Boonton Turnpike, Lincoln Park, 973-694-8283 www.lincolnparklibrary.org

Long Hill Township Library 917 Valley Rd., Gillette, 908-647-2088 www.longhilllibrary.org

Madison Public Library 39 Keep St., Madison, 973-377-0722 www.madisonnjlibrary.org

Mendham Borough Library 10 Hilltop Rd., Mendham, 973-543-4152 www.mendhamboroughlibrary.org

Mendham Township Library Cherry Lane, Brookside, 973-543-4018 www.mendhamtwplib.org

Morris County Library 30 East Hanover Ave., Whippany, 973-285-6980 www.mclib.info/kid

Joint Free Public Library of Morristown and Morris Township South St., Morristown, 973-538-6161 www.jfpl.org

Mountain Lakes Library 9 Elm Rd., Mountain Lakes, 973-334-5095. www.mtnlakes.org/library

Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library 449 Halsey Rd., Parsippany, 973-887-5150 Mt. Tabor Branch: 31 Trinity Park, 973-627-9508 Lake Hiawatha: 68 Nokommis Ave., 973-335-0952 www.parsippanylibrary.org

Washington Township Library 37 E. Springtown Rd., Long Valley, 908-876-3596 www.wtpl.org

Whippanong Public Library 1000 Rt. 10, Whippany, 973-428-2460 www.whippanong.org

Bernards Township Library 32 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-204-3031 www.bernardslibrary.org

Bernardsville Public Library 1 Anderson Hill Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-0118 www.bernardsvillelibrary.org

Bound Brook Memorial Library 402 E. High St., Bound Brook, 732-356-0043 www.somerset.lib.nj.us

Branchburg Library In the Station House, Olive St., Neshanic Station 908-369-5355. www.somerset.lib.nj.us

Franklin Township Library 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, 732-873-8700 www.franklintwp.org.

Hillsborough Library Hillsborough Municipal Complex, 379 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-2200 ext. 14 or 34 www.somerset.lib.nj.us

North Plainfield Public Library 6 Rockview Ave., North Plainfield, 908-755-7923 www.somerset.lib.nj.us

Peapack-Gladstone Library Peapack-Gladstone Municipal Complex, School St., Peapack 908-234-0598 • www.somerset.lib.nj.us

Plainfield Public Library 800 Park Ave., Plainfield, 908-757-1111, ext. 129 www.plainfieldlibrary.info

Raritan Library 54 E. Somerset St., Raritan, 908-725-0413 www.raritanlibrary.org

Somerset County/Bridgewater Library North Bridge St. and Vogt Dr., Bridgewater 908-526-4016 ext. 126 • www.somerset.lib.nj.us

Somerville Public Library 35 West End Ave., Somerville, www.somerset.lib.nj.us Children’s Department: 908-725-1336 ext. 14 Young Adult Services: 908-725-1336 ext. 16

Warren Public Library 42 Mountain Blvd., Warren, 908-754-5554 www.somerset.lib.nj.us

Watchung Public Library Watchung Circle, 12 Stirling Rd., Watchung, 908-561-0117 www.somersetlib.nj.us.

union county Berkeley Heights Library 290 Plainfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-9333 bhplnj.org

Cranford Library

somerset county

224 Walnut Ave., Cranford, 908-709-7272 www.cranford.com/library

Bedminster – Clarence Dillon Public Library

Fanwood Memorial Library

2336 Lamington Rd., Bedminster, 908-234-2325 ext. 107 www.clarencedillonpl.org

North Ave. & Tillotson Rd., Fanwood, 908-322-4377 www.fanwoodlibrary.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Kenilworth Public Library

Springfield Free Public Library

548 Boulevard, Kenilworth, 908-276-2451 www.kenilworthlibrary.org

66 Mountain Ave., Springfield, 973-376-4930, ext. 232 www.sfplnj.org

Mountainside Library

Summit Free Public Library

Constitution Plaza, Mountainside, 908-233-0115 www.mountainsidelibrary.org

75 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-0350, ext. 4 www.summitlibrary.org

New Providence Memorial Library

Union Public Library

Elkwood Ave., New Providence, 908-665-0311 www.newprovidencelibrary.org

1980 Morris Ave., Union, 908-851-5450, ext. 3 Vauxhall Branch: 123 Hilton Ave., 908-851-5451 www.youseemore.com/unionpl

Scotch Plains Public Library 1927 Bartle Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-322-5007, ext. 209 www.scotlib.org

BIKING New Jersey’s abandoned railroad lines and historic canal paths make excellent family biking trails as they are virtually flat with mostly cinder and some paved surfaces. See listings under the Hiking & More for more family biking, hiking, or strolling trails. Search TrailLink, a service provided by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, for detailed information, access points, locations and reviews of rail-trails in New Jersey and throughout the country, www.traillink.com

bicycle & pedestrian maps Bernards Township Engineer’s Office, 908-204-3020. Bernards Twp. residents can pick up a map to the township’s eight miles of biking and walking trails at the reference desk of the Bernards Twp. Library. Multiple copies are available from the Twp. Engineer’s office. Cranford Township Bicycle Facilities Map is available at the Municipal Building, 908-709-7350. Morris County Division of Transportation Management, 973-829-8101. A map to multi-use trails, walking trails, bicycle lanes and shared roadways throughout Morris County are available at local libraries, the Morris County Visitors Center, or online at www.morris dot.org. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) publishes twelve bicycle tour guides including a 238-mile route from High Point to Cape May. The pocket-size tour guides have been reprinted in color and contain directions and information about parking, food and other local amenities. You may order copies online or download PDF files at: www.state.nj.us/ transportation/commuter/bike/tours.shtm

Westfield Memorial Library 550 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-789-4090, ext. 3 www.wmlnj.org

Columbia Trail Rt. 24, Washington Twp., 973-326-7600. Wide earthen trail on the abandoned Jersey Central Railroad bed spans Morris County and Hunterdon County for 16.2 miles and is ideal for bicycling, hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. Access the trail at West Valley Brook Rd., Rt. 513, Fairview Ave., Naughright Rd., Four Bridges Rd., Bartley Rd. or Schooley’s Mountain Rd. in Washington Twp.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Park Office: 145 Mapleton Rd., Princeton, 609-924-5705. 44-mile long canal built in the 1830’s to carry coal and industrial goods between Philadelphia and New York City was once a busy waterway, now a quiet and beautiful state park. Canoeing, hiking, bicycling, fishing, horseback riding; cross-country skiing in winter. Access canal paths from small parking areas located at most roads that cross the canal (off Rt. 533) between East Millstone and Rocky Hill in Somerset County. Canoe and kayak rental and Mule Tenders Barracks Museum at Griggstown (www.canoenj.com). In Hunterdon County, access the feeder canal that runs between Frenchtown and Trenton along the Delaware River from Prallsville Mill (Rt. 29, Stockton, 609-397-3586 for program info), Bulls Island or Frenchtown, off Bridge St. Campsites available at Bull’s Island Recreation Area, 2185 Daniel Bray Hwy, Stockton, 609-397-2949. Call 609-924-5705 for schedule of seasonal nature and history interpretive hikes, bike tours and programs or visit www.dandrcanal.com for schedule and information on canoe, kayak or bike rentals, weekend family programs, school outreach and many free scout programs. Closed Bulls Island Campground, canal path portions and bridges remain closed due to damage from Hurricane Irene. Programs are limited, check website for updates and reopening date.

www.kidsguidenj.com Your one-stop online family resource Quick and easy links to Kids’ Guide listings Ticket giveaways on facebook, Kids Guide NJ

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors BIKING

BOAT, FISH & SWIM

Patriots Path Map at Morris County Park Commission, 53 E. Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973-326-7600. A developing trail network will link many parks and points of interest in southern Morris County. Currently, there are 20 miles of continuous trails between Speedwell Ave. in Morris Twp. and Rt. 24 in Mendham Twp. with a branch to the New Jersey Brigade Hut site in Bernardsville. Two miles of level, paved path from Lake Rd. to Washington Valley Rd. (with parking at both ends) in Morris Twp. offers excellent family biking, walking and roller blading. The majority of the path is crushed stone/gravel or narrow dirt trails for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. The path is well marked and follows corridors of the Whippany and Black Rivers winding thru wetlands and forest with lots of wildlife. Access the 3.5 mile stretch that runs through the Black River Wildlife Management Area in Chester Twp. from the parking lot on Dover-Chester Rd. or Pleasant Hill Rd.

Division

Sussex Branch/Paulinskill Valley Trail Kittatinny Valley State Park, Sussex County, 973-786-6445. Abandoned railbeds from the Erie Lackawanna’s Sussex branch and NY Susquehanna and Western Railroad provide gentle-grade cinder paths that provide excellent biking for families. The scenery is beautiful and wildlife is abundant along the trail which follows the Paulinskill River and cuts through the Kittatinny Valley. The 21 mile Sussex Branch Trail begins at Waterloo Rd. (1 mi. west of Rt. 206 in Byram), runs north where it passes through Kittatinny Valley State Park, intersects the Paulinskill Valley Trail at Warbasse Junction, then ends in Branchville. The 26-mile Paulinskill Valley Trail begins in Sparta, heads southwest through Blairstown and ends near the Delaware River at the Columbia Lake Wildlife Management Area. The multi-use trails are also suited to walking, jogging, horseback riding and cross country skiing. Both trails can be accessed from their beginning and end points and at Warbasse Junction. Other access points for the Paulinskill Valley Trail are: Limecrest Rd. at RR crossing near Eastern Propane in Sparta; Swartswood Lake Rd. (Rt. 622); Paulinskill Lake Rd. (Rt. 614); Stillwater Rd. (Rt. 610); Cedar RidgeDixon Rd.; Marksboro Rd. (Rt. 659); and Footbridge Park (off Rt. 94) in Blairstown.

Please Note Events are subject to change or cancellation. Please call or check websites prior to your visit to ensure there have been no changes. For quick access to Kids Guide listings, bookmark

www.KIDSGUIDEnj.COM The only website you need for info about NJ’s best family events, activities and services… Get updates to the Kids Guide Calendar and use the easy links for the all new 2014 Camp and School Guides — coming online in January!

fishing

of Fish, Game & Wildlife, 609-292-2965. Anglers age 16 and older are required to obtain and display a valid New Jersey fishing license to fish the state’s fresh waters. For trout fishing, an additional trout stamp is required. Children under 16 and residents over age 70 do not need licenses. Licenses can be purchased from most county and municipal clerks, designated sporting goods stores, or via the Internet at www.njfishandwildlife.com. Call the trout hotline (in April, May and Oct.), 609-633-6765, for recorded information on stocking locations and times. A free fishing weekend when no license is required for fishing New Jersey’s public waters is held annually in early June. Visit the state website or TakeMeFishing.org for boating and fishing info and tips. Jun Annual Free Fishing Days in early June.

F or

boating

a list of registered and licensed charter and party boat operators on the Jersey shore, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com, “Fishing–Marine Fisheries” and open “Charter and Party Boat Directory” pdf. For information about locations and guides for freshwater fishing, select “Fishing–Freshwater.”

Bayshore Discovery Project 2800 High St., Bivalve , Port Norris, 856-785-2060. Operates the restored A.J. Meerwald, a Delaware Bay oyster dredgeboat built in 1928. The schooner is now a sailing classroom. Field trips, summer sailing camp, deck tours, sailor for a day program, and public sails from ports in New Jersey, including Liberty State Park, are offered in season. www.ajmeerwald.org

Bel Haven Paddlesports 1227 Rt. 542 (GSP Exit 52), Green Bank, 800-445-0953. Canoe, kayak or tube through the Pine Barrens on the calm Batsto, Mullica, Wading and Oswego Rivers. www.belhavenpaddlesports.com

Belmar Municipal Marina Rt. 35 (at Shark River), Belmar, 732-681-2266. A large number of party & charter boats make daily half-day & full-day ocean trips for fluke, blackfish, blues, albacore, or shark.

Bucks County River Country 2 Walters Lane, Point Pleasant, PA, 215-297-5000.

Delaware River Tubing 2998 Daniel Bray Highway, Frenchtown, 908-996-5386. Spend a day floating down the Delaware River in a tube, raft, canoe or kayak.

Highlands Natural Pool 180 Snake Den Rd. (I-287N exit 55), Ringwood, 973-8354299. Open weekends Memorial Day-late June, daily late June-Labor Day. Day passes & memberships. Olympic-size, stream-fed chemical-free pool with stone retaining walls was carved out of the hillside in 1935. Set among poplars and evergreens, it is adjacent to over 24 miles of hiking trails in Norvin Green State Forest. Children’s area; snack stand; picnic tables; volleyball court, basketball court and softball field. www.highlandspool.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Hunterdon County Parks Canoe Trips Office location: 1020 Rt. 31N, Lebanon Twp., 908-782-1158. Canoe trips on Hunterdon’s waterways spring-fall for beginning and experienced canoers include 21⁄2 hr. pond paddles to whitewater and birding day trips and camping trips. Custom trips for groups, schools, clubs. www.hunterdoncountycanoeclub.org

Kittatinny Canoes, Inc. Dingman’s Ferry, PA, 800-FLOAT-KC. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting, tubing on the Delaware River.

Pine Barrens Canoe & Kayak Rental 3260 Rt. 563, Chatsworth, 800-732-0793. Canoe and kayak rentals through the Pine Barrens on the calm waters of the Wading and Oswego Rivers. www.pinebarrenscanoe.com

Ringwood State Park 1304 Sloatsburg Rd., Ringwood, 973-962-7031. State Botanical Garden open 8-8. Ringwood Manor tours: Wed.-Sun. 10-3. Skylands Manor tours: one Sunday per month March-Nov. Entrance fee Memorial Day-Labor Day: $5 weekdays. Encompassing 4,044 acres, Ringwood includes the formal gardens of the New Jersey State Botanical Gardens; Ringwood Manor, a beautiful country house which was once owned by Abram S. Hewitt, America's foremost ironmaster; Skylands Manor, a 44-room mansion built in the 1920s; and spring-fed Shepherd Lake Recreation Area offering boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities. Boat rentals and swimming are offered Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day from 10-6. Hiking and multi-use trails range from easy to difficult, from woodlands to rocky vistas, some connecting the Ringwood and Skylands sections of the park. 7.5 mile mountain bike loop; food concession at Shepherd Lake.

Round Valley Recreation Area Rt. 78 Exit 18, Rt. 22E (8 mi. east of Clinton on Rt. 22), Annandale, 908-236-6355. Regarded as the foremost trophy trout water in New Jersey, scenic reservoir has small boat launch (10hp max.) or fishing from dam or shore. Hiking and nature trails, wilderness campsites accessible by boat, canoe or backpacking 3-6 miles. Separate swimming area with bathhouse, picnicking and playground. Visit website for interpretive programs, www.njparksandforests.org.

Silas Condict County Park William Lewis Arthur Dr. (off Kinnelon Rd.), Kinnelon, 973-8298257. Daily 8am-dusk. Paddleboat and rowboat rentals available weekends and holidays from Memorial Day-Labor Day. Picnic areas, hiking trails, softball fields and lake fishing.

Somerset County Park Commission Putting Course and Paddle Boats Colonial Park, Franklin Twp., 732-873-8585. Putting Course: April-Oct. Adults $7, children/srs. $5, under 5 $2. Paddle boats: summer thru Labor Day, $8. Golf-boat combo: $10. A sports complex for all ages. The putting course is a golf course in miniature with water features and “sand” traps. Both facilities are accessible for persons with physical disabilities. May-Oct Putting Course & Paddleboats open.

Somerset County Park Commission Family Canoe & Kayak Programs 908-766-2489. Spring, summer and fall canoe and kayak trips are designed for adults and families. For canoe and kayak trips, an adult must accompany children under the age of 15. Each canoe can accommodate two paddlers and a child

passenger. A pool session must be completed before a KanU-Kayak session is undertaken. Likewise a Kan-U-Kayak session must be attended prior to a river trip. Call or visit website for schedule of day-long river excursions and whitewater trips. Can-U-Cannu? Introductory canoe workshops for adults and children, ages 7 and older, teach basic paddling, handling and safety on Branta Pond at the Environmental Education Center. $14 per person. May 4 1:30-3:30pm. May 24 9:30-11:30am. Kan-U-Kayak? Introductory kayaking workshops, designed for adults and ages 10 and over, teach basic paddling, handling and safety. Must attend this class and 11⁄2-hr. pool training session (included in fee) prior to taking a river trip. $25 per person. May 7 6-8pm. Passaic Paddle Canoe or kayak on the gentle Passaic River through the Great Swamp basin. $30. May 18 1-4pm.

South Mountain Reservation Swan Boats Cherry Lane, West Orange, 973-731-5800. Spring-fall: open daily 10-8. $14/half hr. for 2 person boat; $18/half hr. for 4 person boat; Orange residents receive half off with ID. Park across the street. Swan paddle boats for rent, walking paths and picnic pavilion. Call 973-735-6229 to reserve picnic pavilion.

Spruce Run State Park Van Syckels Rd. (I-78 to Clinton Rt. 31N), Clinton, 908-638-8572 or 908-638-8573. Seasonal parking fee. Swimming beach and bathhouse, small boat launch for boaters and windboarders, boat and canoe rental (908638-8234), fishing, camping, picnicking and playground.

Sunrise Lake Beach Club Lewis Morris Park, Rt. 24, Morris Township, 973-829-8257. Memorial Day thru Labor Day: Weekends & holidays 11- 7, daily starting June 28. Season passes available. Summer swimming, fishing, rowboat and paddleboat rentals, beach volleyball, bath/boathouse with restrooms, changing rooms and snack bar. Birthday parties. Lewis Morris Park has hiking trails, mountain biking, fitness circuit, softball field, picnic sites and Saturn Kids Kingdom playground in Doe Meadow. Camping for organized groups by advance reservation.

Union County Parks Boating 908-527-4900. Paddleboats: Daily 11-8. Non-motorized boats, registered with Union County, are permitted in some Union County parks including Briant, Echo Lake, Nomahegan, Rahway River Park, Rahway River Parkway, Warinanco and Watchung Reservation. Paddleboats are available for rent in Echo Lake Park, Mountainside/Westfield, and Warinanco Park, Elizaabeth/Roselle. For paddleboat info, call 973-510-1997.

Wawayanda State Park 885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, 973-853-4462. 255-acre lake with a number of explorable islands in the remote, rugged highlands of northern New Jersey. 400-acre park also includes mountain bike trails, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, fishing, beach area with lifeguard, camping, and food concession. Canoe rental available mid-April-late Sept.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors CAMPING See listings under Hiking and Boating for additional references to New Jersey campgrounds. Many state and all national parks offer engaging interpretive programs on the history and environment of the area, with many offered in the evening for campers.

new jersey state parks New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry, PO Box 404, Trenton, 08625-0404. 1-800-843-6420, 609-984-0370. Campsites, cabins, group cabins, lean-tos, shelters and yurts may be available depending on the park. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance either in person at the area office; by mail using an overnight application form (available online); or by telephone using a credit card, for a minimum of 2 nights to a maximum of 14 nights. Cabins must be reserved for 7 or 14 consecutive nights Memorial Day through Labor Day or for a 2 night minimum at other times. A guide to activities and facilities at New Jersey’s state parks and forests can be picked up at any state park service office or can be mailed by calling 1-800843-6420. Information is also available online at www.njparksandforests.org Ask for a Passport when visiting a state park, forest or historic site and collect an official passport sticker as you visit sites throughout the state. Each sticker represents a significant feature of the area. Collect a minimum of 10 different stickers to receive a prize.

new jersey campground association 29 Cook’s Beach Rd., Cape May Court House, NJ 082101723, 1-800-2-CAMP-NJ. For a free copy of the annual Campground & RV Guidebook for New Jersey, call, write or email: request@newjerseycampgrounds.com or download online at www.newjerseycampgrounds.com.

national park service

Individual campsite reservations for National Park Service sites can be made up to 6 months in advance on a rolling basis. For Yosemite, individual campsites can be reserved up to 5 months in advance with inventory going on sale on the 15th of each month. Cabins and lookouts can be reserved up to 6 months in advance for all sites. Group facilities can be reserved up to 12 months in advance. Check the National Park Service reservation website at www.recreation.gov for reservation and campground details. Reservations can be made online, by phone or in person at a site. Phone reservations are taken 10am -12am daily March-Oct; 10am-10pm Nov.-Feb. Call 1-877-444-6777. For customer service, phone 1-888-448-1474. For park information, visit www.nps.gov. Additional information is available at www.nationalparks.org and www. americanparknetwork.com, publishers of visitor guides for national and state parks across America. Reservations for lodging at a number of parks can also be made via authorized concessionaires such as Xanterra Parks & Resorts, www.xanterra.com, and Forever Resorts, www.foreverresorts.com.

national park service Visit reserveamerica.com for campground information, trail maps, guidebooks and to make reservations at many public and private campgrounds nationwide.

junior rangers

The Junior Ranger program, available at many National Parks, consists of completing an activity booklet while visiting the park and upon completion, earning a Junior Ranger badge. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/learn/juniorranger.cfm. For those who are unable to visit a national park, an on-line Junior Ranger program with activities and rewards can be completed at www.nps.gov/webrangers.

Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA Family Camp RR1, Dingmans Ferry, 877-SPEERSY, 570-828-2329. Canoeing, sailing, swimming, horseback riding, and hiking in the Pocono Mountains for multi-generational campers available Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and for a week during the summer.

Fairview Lake YMCA Family Camp 1035 Fairview Lake Rd., Newton, 973-383-9282. Open to organizations and families during the spring, fall and winter. Facilities include modern, winterized cabins with meals in the dining hall or rustic Adirondack shelters with firepits for cooking and campfires (spring and fall only). Seasonal activities include canoeing/boating, archery, swimming, fishing, orienteering and arts and crafts. www.fairviewlakeymca.org

Frost Valley YMCA 2000 Frost Valley Rd., Claryville, 845-985-2291. Established in 1901 as one of the nation’s first summer camps, Frost Valley YMCA is a 6,000 acre residential camping, environmental education and conference center open to individual families, scouts and community groups. www.frostvalley.org

Jenny Jump State Forest State Park Rd., Hope, NJ, 908-459-4366. Small state campground has 23 private campsites in the woods and 6 shelter cabins each furnished with 2 bunk beds, woodburning stove & small table & benches. Several miles of hiking trails lead thru rugged, rocky terrain with scenic overlooks to Delaware Water Gap and other vistas; convenient to Land of Make Believe. United Astronomy Clubs of NJ Greenwood Observatory open 8-10:30pm Sat. late April thru Oct. for presentations and public observing. Sat Stargazing & Lectures, 8-10:30pm. Beginners Apr - Oct and children are welcome.

Mohican Outdoor Center 50 Camp Rd., Blairstown, 908-362-5670. Former boy scout camp on the banks of Catfish Pond, a 60-acre glacial lake, is now operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club in partnership with the National Park Service. Hiking on the Appalachian Trail, fishing, swimming, canoeing, biking, rock climbing, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, campsites and lodging available. Outdoor programs for all ages and levels of interest are offered year round for members and non-members. Facilities, available on a space-available basis, include lodge with heated central gathering area, seasonal meals, shower and fireplace; shared bunkroom and private cabins; seven rustic campsites; group campsite; and three tent platforms and ground site overlooking Catfish Pond.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Ongoing Weekend Getaways, volunteer-led themedprograms are open year ’round to adult members and non-members. Family Adventure Camps and Weekends are offered at AMC locations in New Hampshire during school vacations and summer. Check website for dates, www.outdoors.org.

Pocono Environmental Education Center Rt. 209, Dingmans Ferry, PA, 570-828-2319. Located in a former Pocono resort in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, PEEC offers daytime and overnight nature programs for families. Educational family weekends, nature and birding treks, homeschool programs, workshops for educators, scout/school trips and other special events are held throughout the year.

Wharton State Forest Batsto Village, Rt. 542, Hammonton, 609-561-0024; Atsion Office, Rt. 206, Hammonton, 609-268-0444; 609-567-4559. Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day: $5 weekends. The largest single tract of land within the New Jersey State Park system, Wharton State Forest is the site of Batsto Village in the Pine Barrens, a former bog iron and glassmaking industrial center from 1766 to 1867, and features miles of unpaved roads for mountain biking and horseback riding, trails for hiking, rivers and streams for canoeing/kayaking, and numerous lakes, ponds and fields for wildlife observation. The 50-mile Batona Trail connects Wharton, Brendan Byrne (formerly Lebanon) and Bass River State Forests. Campsites include tent and trailer sites, wilderness campsites and nine furnished cabins.

YMCA Camp Mason 23 Birch Ridge Rd., Hardwick, 908-362-8217. Family camping weekends are generally offered over Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day and for fall foliage. Fee includes accommodations in heated duplex cabins with full bathrooms and bunk beds, meals, self-directed and staff-led activities, and use of facilities. Group rentals available.

FARMS/PICK YOUR OWN

jersey fresh

Farming is the oldest industry in New Jersey. The family-owned farms listed below are dedicated to providing you with the freshest produce, homemade baked goods, specialty gifts, flowers, plants, garden decor and seasonal family activities. Visit the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s website at www.jerseyfresh.nj.gov for Jersey Fresh recipes and additional pick-your-own farms and community farmers’ markets. For more information about farms in Sussex County that offer Christmas trees, farm tours, pick-your-own produce, farmstands and harvest activities, visit www.sussexfarmvisits.com or call 1-800-473-0363. To locate organic farms near you, consult the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey at www.nofanj.org. For a guide to Christmas tree farms throughout the state, visit www.njchristmastrees.org.

Alstede Farms 84 Rt. 513 (Old Rt. 24), Chester, 908-879-7189. Pick-your-own fruits, vegetables and flowers May-Oct. Weekend farm activities Fri.-Sun.; summer farm camp; group tours; birthday parties; special events throughout the season.

Fresh & Fancy Farms 575 River Rd., New Milford, 201-483-9494. Offers children’s gardening, cooking and crafting classes, scout programs, summer farm camp.

Four Sisters Winery at Matarazzo Farms 783 County Rt. 519, Belvidere, 908-475-3671. Wine tasting, wine cellar tours and hosts grape stomping, murder mystery dinners, fall harvest festivals and other special events.

Hillview Farms 223 Meyersville Rd., Gillette, 908-647-0957. Pick your own blueberries, tomatoes, zinnias, peaches, apples, and pumpkins in season. Be sure to call first for availability. School tours.

Jersey Fresh Farmers Markets Farmers Markets, open summer-fall, bring the freshest fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses, baked goods and desserts, pickles and specialty foods weekly right to our communities. www.jerseyfresh.nj.gov

Longmeadow Farm 561 Blairstown Rd. (Rt. 521), Hope, 908-459-5351. Berry picking starts late July. Schools and groups scheduled by appointment. www.upickapples.net

Terhune Orchards 330 Cold Soil Rd., Princeton, 609-924-2310. Pick-your-own May to Oct. from berries, cherries and flowers to peaches, apples and pumpkins. Read and Explore and Read and Pick programs for preschoolers and parents are held year-round. Educational workshops for older students and adults are also offered. Farm store, farm yard and farm trail open to the public daily all year. School and group tours by appointment April-Oct.; barnyard birthday parties; camp; annual special events. Selected Special Events Jan 26 Wassailing the Apple Trees, an old English tradition, singing, dancing, live music. 1-4. Free. Feb 8-9 Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend, 12-5. Mar 16 Gary’s Pruning Demonstration, 11am. Apr 19- Bunny Chase, treasure hunt for ages 2-8, bunny Apr 20 craft, wagon rides, pony rides, food tent, winery tasting room. 10-4, weather dependent. Apr 25 Arbor Day Celebration, “tree” story for children and free blue spruce seedlings. 10am. May 3-4 Kite Day, bring your own kite, choose one in the store, or make one. Music, sheep shorn on Sun., children’s activities, food. 10-5. Free. May 10- Mother’s Day Wine Trail Weekend, free tastMay 11 ings for moms. 12-5pm. Read and Explore Children’s Program Children’s program combines picking fruit or other farm activities and listening to a themed story. For ages preschool to 8 yrs. with adult. 10am. $7 per child, pre-registration requested. Jan 14, The Gingerbread Man.

Jan 18 Feb 4 Feb 18, Feb 22

Animal Tracks. Fur, Feathers, Fluff–Keeping Warm in Winter.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors FARMS / PICK YOUR OWN

Cole’s Country Tree Farm 478 Country Rd. 579, Alexandria Twp., 908-735-5706.

Terhune Orchards continued

Cook’s Evergreen Farm

Read and Explore Children’s Program Mar 4, 8 Composting. Mar 18, Getting Ready for Spring.

7 Railroad Lane, Whitehouse Station, 908-534-2260.

Mar 22 Apr 1,5

Birds, Nesting & Birdhouses.

Valley Shepherd Creamery 50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley, 908-876-3200. Visitors can learn about sheep dairy farming as practiced in Europe for the last 4,000 years. 11⁄2 hr. creamery tours are given on weekends in spring, summer and fall. Cheesemaking workshops are offered on the 3rd Sun. of the month. Participants return 2 mos. later to pick up aged cheese. Farm parties; special events. www.valleyshepherd.com Selected Special Events Apr-Nov Cheesemaking Classes, book online. May-Nov Cheese Wine Tasting Evenings, dates online. Apr Shearing Tours. Spring- Farm Tours, walk-in 1.5-hr. tour is offered on Summer weekends in spring and summer. SepFall Harvest Tours, walk-in 1.5-hr. tour is offered mid Nov on weekends early Sept. to mid-Nov.

Well-Sweep Herb Farm 205 Mt. Bethel Rd., Port Murray, 908-852-5390. Mon.-Sat. 9-5. Call first Jan.-March. Garden paths lead through a formal herb garden and display gardens including butterfly, medicinal, perennial and rock gardens. Visitors are welcome to picnic and visit farm animals. Group tours; guest speaker program; special events; adult craft/horticulture workshops are offered. Gift shop. Selected Special Events Advance reservations required for programs. Apr Lectures & Workshops for Adults, make handFeb crafted projects and herbal creations.

Wightman’s Farms Route 202 (5 mi. south of Morristown/exit 30B Rt. 287), Morristown, 973-425-9819. Store open every day 8am-6pm featuring all varieties of apples, fruits and vegetables, fresh baked pies, donuts, gourmet foods and fresh apple cider made in our own mill. www.wightmansfarms.com

Country Heritage Farm 129 Plains Rd, Augusta, 973-875-5590.

Deerfield Farm 14 Pulaski Rd., Whitehouse Station, 908-534-2523.

Dixiedale Farm Hillside Ave. & River Rd., Chatham, 973-635-2097.

Dower Tree Farm Todd Ave., Peapack, 908-781-5407.

Dutch Valley Tree Farm Changewater-Warren County, 908-689-0793.

Evergreen Farm 4 Bass Lane, Lebanon, 908-236-9550.

Giamarese Farms 155 Fresh Pond Rd, E. Brunswick, 732-821-9494.

Griffin Nurseries 190 Fresh Ponds Rd., South Brunswick, 732-257-2484.

Hidden Hollow Farm 18 Spring Lane, Washington, 908-689-5678.

Hidden Pond Christmas Tree Farm 4 West Field Rd., Mendham, 973-865-6362.

Holiday Tree Farm 44 Augusta Hill Rd., Augusta, 973-948-7488.

Holly Bough Farm 88 Cole Rd., Whitehouse Station, 908-534-2622.

Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop 848 Rt. 524, Allentown, 609-259-0720.

Knothes Farm 645 Millbrook Ave., Randolph, 973-895-7383.

Lantier Tree Farm 163 Dey Grove Rd., Monroe Twp., 732-446-9799.

Mt. Bethel Christmas Tree Farm 41 Mt. Bethel Rd., Washington, 908-852-5811.

Perfect Christmas Tree Farm

Williams Nursery & The Gift House

999 Rt. 22, Phillipsburg, 908-387-1225.

524 Springfield Ave., Westfield, 908-232-4076. Experts in perennials, annuals, shrubs, trees and new and unusual plants. Gift shop complete with everything from Yankee Candles to Christopher Radko Ornaments.

220 Flocktown Rd., Long Valley, 908-852-6669.

Plut’s Christmas Tree Farm Rolling Green Farm 61 Hacklebarney Rd., Chester, 908-879-4497.

CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE

Alger Tree Farm 7 Beacon Light Rd., Tewksbury, 908-832-2298.

Black Oak Farm 9 Black Oak Lane, Asbury, 908-537-4133.

Carriage House Tree Farm 39 Newton Ave., Branchville, 973-948-5102.

Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree Farm 231 Adamic Hill Rd., Milford, 908-995-4365.

Cherryville Farms Quakertown/Cherryville Rd. at W. Sidney Rd., Franklin Twp., 908-806-4580.

Rosemont Tree Farm 131 Kingwood-Stockton Rd., Stockton, 609-397-1809.

Shale Hills Farm 98 Pond School Rd., 973-875-4231.

Simonson Farms 118 Dey Rd., Cranbury, 609-799-0140.

Village Tree Farm 8 Meyersville Rd., Green Village, 908-236-9202.

Wildflower Meadows 163 Old Franklin School Rd., Pittstown, 908-788-4975.

Wyckoff’s Tree Farm Mile Marker 39, Rt. 519, Belvidere, 908-475-4508.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

HIKING & MORE

county and state park calendars • Essex County Park Commission www.co.essex.nj.us • Hunterdon County Park Commission www.co.hunterdon.nj.us • Monmouth County Park System 732-842-4000. www.monmouthcountyparks.com • Morris County Park Commission Trail maps available by logging onto www.morrisparks.net • New Jersey State Parks Calendar of Events, www.njparksandforests.org. Follow event info on the state park facebook page at www.facebook.com/newjerseystateparks. • Somerset County Park Commission 908-722-1200 x7. www.somersetcountyparks.org • Union County Parks & Community Renewal 908-558-4079, www.ucnj.org/parks/index.html

hiking The website for the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, a federation of groups and individuals dedicated to maintaining marked hiking trails and protecting related open space, provides information about easy hikes, Hikes of the Week, and offers regional trail maps and books for sale. www.nynjtc.org

geocaching Explore the great outdoors while using a GPS as your guide and hunt for the many caches hidden in parks, open spaces and communities worldwide. Visit www.geocaching.com for information. For information about geocaching in New Jersey, visit the Northern New Jersey Cachers group at www.nnjc.org. Several natural areas in New Jersey contain a significant number of caches: Griggstown Geotrail 28 caches scattered throughout the 376-acre preserve www.franklintwpnj.org/detailed_trail_maps.html Kittatinny Valley State Park Over 200 caches are located throughout the park. Sign up for a geocaching workshop to learn more; offered monthly at the park, 973-786-6445.

Allaire State Park Rt. 524 (exit 98 GSP), Wall Township, 732-938-2371. Nature Interpretive Center: 732-938-2003. Parking fee. Site of historic Allaire Village and the antique steam trains of the Pine Creek Railroad (see Historic Sites), Allaire State Park also features canoeing and fishing on the Manasquan River and trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and cross country skiing. Nature programs are offered throughout the year. Facilities include a Visitor Center/museum, food concession, and campsites.

Black River Park 973-326-7600. Located in Chester Township, Black River Park is a unique linear park with beautiful hiking trails through Black River Gorge connecting the four cultural sites of Cooper Mill, Kay Environmental Center, Bamboo

Brook, and Willowwood Arboretum. Trails can be accessed from any of these sites. From Cooper Mill, the Black River Trail (blue blaze) follows the Black River for 2.3 miles to Kay Environmental Center. The red Conifer Pass Trail travels another 1.8 miles from Kay to Bamboo Brook Trail. Maps available from Morris County Park Commission.

Cheesequake State Park Exit 120 Garden State Parkway, Matawan, 732-566-2161. Interpretive Center: 732-566-3208. Open daylight hours year-round. A unique variety of plant and animal life is found in this park’s open fields, salt and freshwater marshes, white cedar swamp, pine barrens and hardwood forest. Three main trails (longest is 3.5 mile green) crisscross the park. Exhibits, nature programs and trail guides are available at Interpretive Center. Hooks Creek Lake features a bathing beach with lifeguards in summer (no flotation devices permitted). Bathhouse, concession stand, playground, short boardwalk to crabbing bridge nearby. Fishing in the lake and blue claw crabbing in Hooks Creek can be fun in late summer. 53 campsites are located across the parkway. Visit www.njparksandforests.org for interpretive programs.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Rt. 80W, stop at Kittatinny Point Visitor Center (off 80) for info & map. Dingmans Falls & Visitor Center is located off Rt. 209 near milepost 14 in Dingmans Ferry, PA. Visitors Centers are open 9-5 Memorial Day Sat.-Labor Day, closed Tues. & Wed. Open weekends and some weekdays in fall. The road to Dingmans Falls and Visitor Center is closed when icy conditions set in. Visitor Services: 570-426-2452. Short guided walks leave from Visitor Centers. Jr. Naturalist & Jr. Ranger materials are available. Consult www.nps.gov/dewa for a schedule of ranger-guided activities and children’s materials. Pick up a park map to access boat and canoe launch points and trailheads for the Appalachian Trail and Mt. Tammany. In summer, enjoy a leisurely day tubing, canoeing, or rafting the Delaware River. Old sneakers help for walking on river bottom. Access the river from many points along Old Mine Rd. in NJ or from PA. River guide available at Visitor Centers. Fishing, hiking, bicycling; campsites available on the river at Worthington State Forest, 908-841-9575. Just north of Worthington Park headquarters is the Douglas Trail to Sunfish Pond, a natural glacier lake atop the Kittatinny Ridge. In winter, two major areas are maintained, when conditions permit, for beginner and advanced cross country skiers. Slateford Farm Ski Trail in PA (off 80) offers 5 miles of gentle trails. Blue Mountain Lakes Trail in NJ offers 8 miles for varied abilities. www.nps.gov/dela Ongoing Adventure Guide for Teens, a 16-page introduction to the Appalachian Trail within the park is available at Visitor Centers or online. A patch is available if successfully completed. Junior Naturalist patch can be earned by completing a 4-page activity sheet available at Visitor Centers or online. Junior Park Ranger badge and patch can be earned after completing a 16-page Junior Ranger Explorer Notebook, available at Visitor Centers or by mail. Friends of the Delaware Water Gap Non-profit organization devoted to park conservancy sponsors lecture series and family events, 570-426-2435 x2510, www.friendsofdewa.org.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors HIKING & MORE Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters: 152 Pleasant Plains Rd., Harding Twp., 973425-1222. Open Mon.-Fri. 8-4:30, Sun. hours spring-fall. Helen S. Fenske Visitor Center, 32 Pleasant Plains Rd., Harding Twp., 973-425-9510. North Gate bridge is open during visitor center hours. Thurs.-Fri. 12-4, Sat.-Sun. 10-4. Trails open dawn to dusk. More than 200 species of birds are found in the Great Swamp. Four trails in the Wilderness area total eight miles. There is a parking area at each trailhead. The Wildlife Observation Center off Long Hill Rd. has an information center and three boardwalks with blinds for wildlife viewing. Even if you don’t find any unusual birds, this easy walk is always good for spotting turtles, frogs, snakes and more from the boardwalk. Stop in the Visitor Center for maps, information and to visit the interactive exhibits and Discovery Den for children, bookstore and gift shop. See listing under Outdoor Education Centers for programs for children, adults groups and families offered by Friends of the Great Swamp. Great Swamp Watershed Association 568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown, 973-538-3500. Membership-based nonprofit organization protects drinking water and preserves land in the Great Swamp watershed region. Educational programs for individuals and families, in-school programs and educators workshops are offered.

Greenwood Gardens 274 Old Short Hills Rd., Short Hills, 973-258-4026. Sun.-Tues. 9-4. Adults $10, srs. and students $5, under 12 free. Lovely ornamental gardens on the gilded age estate of Joseph P. Day and Peter P. Blanchard, Jr., are open for the public to enjoy Sun.-Tues. 9-4. Visit website for gardening and craft workshops, guided walks, talks and family nature programs. www.greenwoodgardens.org Dec 14 Holiday Della Robbia Workshop, 10-12. $55/$45. Jan 18 Owls & Rails–Birds We Love, But Seldom See, presentation by NJ Audubon. 2-4. $12/$10. Feb 15 The Great Backyard Bird Count, 10:30-12. Learn from NJ Audubon educators, then help log data. All ages and abilities, loaner bincoculars available. $12, $10 members.

Hacklebarney State Park 119 Hacklebarney Rd., Long Valley (from Chester, 24W 3 mi. to park entrance), 908-879-5677, 908-638-8572. Parking fee Memorial Day to Labor Day. Hacklebarney surrounds a gorge of unusual beauty where two feeder streams, Trout Brook & Rheinhart Brook, flow into the Black River. 5 miles of hiking trails, many picnic facilities throughout the gorge equipped with charcoal grills. Waters, stocked with trout, provide good fishing. Topography is rugged, wear comfortable walking shoes. Kids love to climb on the huge, flat boulders that line the ravine to the river.

High Point State Park 1480 Rt. 23, Sussex County, 973-875-4800. Interpretive Center: 973-875-1471. Cross Country Ski Center, 973-7021222. Hike to the highest point in New Jersey along the Kittatinny Mountain ridge and Appalachian Trail. Panoramic views of New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Camping, fishing, swimming (with bathhouse), boat launch, picnicking, food concession, playground, nature center. In winter, a cross country ski center features 15 km of groomed trails, 6.5 km with snow making equipment.

Specializing in lessons with gentle attention to children and beginner adults. Lesson Package includes 4 half-hr. private lessons for $180

SUMMER & CHRISTMAS CAMPS

Ask about our NEW pricing structure due to the economy. Marilyn Salvetti, Owner 245 Old Turnpike Rd., Route 517 Tewksbury, NJ 07830

908 832 9448 www.clfarm.com • mjsalvetti@yahoo.com Lodge, lessons, equipment sales and rentals, ice skating on Lake Marcia. Ongoing Interpretive Programs are scheduled year round.

Huber Woods Park 25 Brown’s Dock Rd. (off Navesink River Rd., GSP exit 109), Locust Section, Middletown, 732-872-2670. Hands-on environmental center, short nature loop and Discovery Path and guide for children. Eight miles of wooded trails for walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.

Leonard J. Buck Garden Layton Rd., Far Hills, 908-234-2677. Mon.-Fri. 10-4, Sat. 105, Sun.12-5. Begun in the late 1930’s, this 33-acre naturalistic garden has matured into one of the premier rock gardens in the eastern U.S. Rare and exotic plants are tucked among the outcroppings with peak bloom in the spring. The Somerset County Environmental Education Center hosts horticulture and birding workshops and walks seasonally. Call the EEC to register, 908-766-2489. Selected Events Feb 24- Art & Photography Exhibit, photographs, paintMar 14 ings & drawings of Buck Garden. 10am-4pm in Visitor Center. Mar 26 Pruning Fundamentals, 9-11am. $12, pre-registration required. Apr 6Woodland Walks, Sun. afternoons at 2pm.

May 18 Apr 17 Apr 26Apr 27

Garden Photography Workshop, beginner and intermediate photography enthusiastists. 911:30. $35, pre-registration required. Spring Plant Sale & Earth Day Celebration, plant sale, garden lectures, guided tours. Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5.

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation 955 Weldon Rd., Jefferson Twp., 973-697-3140. Visitors Center at Saffin Rock-Rill Area. Morris County Park system’s largest park encompasses more than 3,000 acres with over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. Softball fields, picnic facilities, radio-controlled car track and field archery course. Camping is available year round in 18 wooded trailer sites, 8 tent sites with platforms, or 4 Adirondack shelters. Shower and restrooms. Reservations recommended. Fishing, ice skating, and cross

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

HORSEBACK RIDING Summer Camp • Any Day FLEX Camp Group & Private Lessons Mounted Troop • Show Team PEP Classes for ages 3–7 Pony Birthday Parties • Trail Rides Voted Best Horseback Riding in Morris|Essex Health & Life and Best Summer Camp, Best Place to Volunteer and 2nd Best for Family Entertainment by Daily Record KG

SEATON HACKNEY STABLES 440 South St., Morristown 973-644-3355 www.seatonhackney.com

10%OFF with this coupon

ANYTHING WE OFFER Valid for first time customers, One per customer. Exp. 4/30/14

country skiing in winter. Canoe rentals 1-4pm weekends in July and Aug. on Saffin Pond, life jackets provided. Private boats or canoes are not permitted.

Ringwood State Park 1304 Sloatsburg Rd., Ringwood, 973-962-7031. See listing under Boating, Fishing & Swimming.

South Mountain Reservation Access trails from Locust Grove (Glen Ave. & Lackawanna Place) in Millburn, Elmdale entrance off Brookdale Dr., Turtle Back Zoo, or Summit Field off Crest Drive. 2,048 acre park includes Wildflower Sculpture Park, dog park and twenty miles of carriage roads used for jogging, walking, horseback riding and cross country skiing. Five trails provide 19 miles of hiking paths. Turtle Back Trail (orange blazes) is an easy day hike of 21⁄2 miles roundtrip. Lenape Trail (follow yellow blazes) leads through deep woods, Maple Brook cascades and Hemlock Falls (after plenty of rain or snow). Maps available from Essex County at 973-268-3500, ext. 238, or at www.somocon.org. The South Mountain Conservancy, a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and promoting wise use of the Reservation, offers group guided hikes for individuals and families with children 10 and older who are strong walkers. Designated hikes are designed for younger children. Access website for current schedule, www.somocon.org

Union County Watchung Reservation Coles Ave. & New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908789-3670. 13+ miles of marked hiking trails include the 11mile Sierra loop (maps available at Visitor Center). Interesting stops along the way include the 1845 town of Feltville / Deserted Village, Surprise Lake, Seeley’s Pond and Blue Brook which are stocked with trout annually, picnic facilities, ballfield, playground, Watchung Stables and Trailside Nature and Science Center.

Voorhees State Park Rt. 513 (Rt. 78 exit 17 to Rt. 31N), Glen Gardner, 908-638-8572. Hiking through woods, to scenic overlooks and along Willoughby Brook, picnicking, playground, ballfield, 2 small fishing ponds for children (catch & release), 50 wooded campsites within walking distance to New Jersey Astronomical Association Observatory (njaa.org) open to the public June-Oct. on Sat. night 8:30-10:30pm and Sun. 2-5pm, weather permitting. Call 908-638-8500 for observatory schedule.

Sat & Sun

Observatory open to the public, Sat. 8:3010:30pm, Sun. 2-5pm June-Oct.

HORSEBACK RIDING Center Line Farm 245 Old Turnpike Rd., Route 517, Tewksbury, 908832-9448. Mon.-Sun. Summer and winter ride from 9am-9pm in our spacious indoor arena. Specializing in English riding (pleasure, jumping and dressage) with gentle attention to children and beginner adults. Private or small group lessons. We are known for our very supportive and friendly family atmosphere. Call for more information or to visit our farm in beautiful Tewksbury. Lesson package includes four halfhr. private lessons for $180 summer & Christmas camps. Now offering moonlight, beach rides, home shows, year end banquet and more! mjsalvetti@yahoo.com. www.clfarm.com

Dapple Hill Farm Minutes from I-78, within easy access of NY, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 201-725-0047. An exceptional equestrian facility, Dapple Hill Farm offers lesson programs tailored to suit your specific needs in a safe, relaxed, fun and family atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. www.DappleHillFarm.com • Lesson packages for children and adults • Summer camp • Leasing options for students • Showing opportunities • Boarding • Indoor arena with viewing area.

Kafka Farms 901 Valley Rd., Watchung, 908-405-8038. See listing under Horseback Riding Camps.

Palermo Show Stable 1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500 or 210-8605688. Info@palermoshowstable.com. Open Tues.-Sun., Mon. for summer day camp. Horseback riding lessons for all ages of children and adults, beginner to advanced. Summer day camps, ages 6 to 16 and youth camp ages 3-5. Boarding, training, showing, horse sales and leases, and monthly horse shows – free admittance for spectators. See display ad on page 69. www.palermoshowstable.com

www.kidsguidenj.com Places to go & things to do for kids of all ages!

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors HORSEBACK RIDING River Edge Farm 1575 River Rd. East, Bedminster, 908-420-1274. English riding lessons for children and adults. Year round. Also offers riding summer camp for girls. See listing under Camps. For more info visit the website. www.riveredgefarm.com

Seaton Hackney Stables 440 South St., Morristown, 973-644-3355. Seaton Hackney Stables offers riding activities including Mounted Troop Program for all levels (beginner to advanced), Show Team, dressage lessons, cross country lessons, group lessons, and private lessons. For the explorers and nature lovers, trail riding is available through the adjacent Morris County Parks. Weekly Summer Camps, any day Flex Camp, PEP classes for 3–7 year olds. See discount coupon on page 67. www.seatonhackney.com

Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-766-5955. Office hours 9am-5pm seven days a week. Lord Stirling Stable offers English horseback riding, group lessons from beginner through jumping levels, horse care workshops and several special events year round for all ages. Riding on 18 miles of well groomed trails or in the large indoor or outdoor rings. Lead line available by the half hour for children eight years old or younger who can sit and hold on by themselves. Scout programs; tractor-pulled hayrides; pony parties. Ongoing Horse Fan Badge, 2-hr. program for girl scouts ages 9 and older. 908-766-5955. Lead Line, on pony or horse, half-hour sessions available daily. Introductory Rides for ages 12 & up. Brief lesson followed by trail ride. Registration must be done in person, begins 2 wks. before each ride. Selected Special Events Dec 14 Winter Registration begins. Mar 15 Spring Registration begins. May 4 30th Annual Family Fun Day. May 11 Mother’s Day Horseback Ride. Jun 7 Summer Program Registration begins. Jun 8 Adult Horse Show. Jun 14 Junior Horse Show. Jun 15 Father’s Day Horseback Ride.

Union County Watchung Stables 1160 Summit Lane, Mountainside, 908-789-3665. Adult and children’s troops, private lessons, recreational riding in the ring on an hourly and half-hourly basis, guided rides, horseback rides with lead lines for riders under the age of 9, handicapped riding program, and summer equestrian camp for ages 9-17. Barn and facility is open for visits during business hours. Birthday party room. ucnj.org/stable Ongoing Girl Scout Programs, for Junior Girl Scout Horse Fan badge and Brownie Try-It. Learn About Horses, one-hour group program includes tour of the facility and learning about care of horses. Lead line horses may be added for children under the age of 9. Kiddie Clinics, mini-clinics designed for ages 35 with parent and ages 6-8.

Sun

Guided Trail Rides, are offered Sundays, weather permitting. Ages 9 and up, all abilities. Leadline Rides, for riders under age 9, are offered Sunday mornings. Private Group Rides for groups of ten or more can be scheduled in advance.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION New Jersey State Parks offer a variety of interpetive programs, hikes, bike, canoe and kayak trips at different parks throughout the season. The Park Service publishes a calendar twice a year for Apr.-Sept. and Oct.-Mar. available at Visitor Information Centers, State Park offices or online at www.njparksandforests.org. Or contact the specific park of interest for their most current schedule. Download the official state park app by Pocket Ranger free from www.pocketranger.com. See State Park listings under other Outdoors categories for selected interpretive programs. www.state.nj.us/dep/seeds Visit the SEEDS (State Environmental Education Directory) website for an online catalog of resources available through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Field trips and outreach programs for schools, groups, families and organizations are available.

Camden Children’s Garden 3 Riverside Dr., Camden, 856-365-8733. Mar. 31-Dec. 31: Fri.-Sun. 10-4, Thurs. by reservation. Jan.-Mar.: open limited hours. Admission $6, under 2 free. Modest fee for train ride and carousel. Combination ticket available with New Jersey State Aquarium. Four-acre interactive garden includes a butterfly garden, railroad garden, dinosaur garden, maze, picnic garden, treehouse, amphitheater, carousel and storybook gardens. Visitors can enter the Butterfly House to observe 200 Monarch and Swallowtail butterflies in a lush tropical environment. School Festivals; girl scout workshops; party packages; gift shop; weekend festivals include crafts, games and activities. Wed Sprouts & Seedlings, nature workshops for ages 2-4 with adult 10-11:30am Wednesdays during the school year. $10 single class, $40 per month. Register online or call. 2nd & 4th Weekend Family Festivals Themed celebrations, 1-4pm, feature crafts, activities and concession stand. Apr 12-13 Dino Day & Bug Bonanza. Apr 19 Brunch with the Bunny. Apr 26-27 Earth & Arbor Day. May 10-11 Beautiful Butterflies, Birds & Cinco de Mayo. May 24-25 Fit & Fun. Jun 14-15 StrawBEARy Surprise & Art in Nature. Jun 28-29 Festival de Aibonio, PR Jul 12-13 BlueBEARy Blast & Celebrate New Jersey.

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary 324 Forest Dr. S., Short Hills, 973-376-3587. Stone House Museum: Mon.-Fri. 8-5, Sat. 9-4. Summer: Mon.-Fri. 8-4, closed Sat. Closed school vacations, state holidays and

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

August. Grounds open daylight hours year â&#x20AC;&#x2122;round. 16 acres of woodland with 3 miles of walking trails. Adult day trips and hikes; youth and family nature programs for toddlers to grade 8; summer and vacation camps; scouting programs; birthday parties. Membership is required for youth programs. Registration on first come first served basis with preference to Millburn Twp. residents. Select Family Programs Pre-registration required for most programs. Jan 11 Winter Tracking, 2-3:30pm. Mar 8 Reptiles, 2-3:30pm. May 10 Composting & Planting, 2-3:30pm. Apr 11 Night Hike in April, campfire stories. 7-8:30. Jun 21- Camp Out at Jenny Jump State Park, 12pm Sat. Jun 22 to 10am Sun. Vacation Mini-Camp for Preschoolers-Fourth Graders 9-noon, ages 3-5; 9-3 grades K-4. Registration required, space is limited. Feb 17- February Vacation Mini-Camp.

Feb 21 Apr 21- April Mini-Camp. Apr 25 Jun 9-13, 16-20 June Mini-Camp for Preschoolers.

Duke Farms 1112 Duke Parkway West, Hillsborough, 908-722-3700. Open daily 8:30-4:30pm except closed Wed. 2,740 acre estate and wildlife sanctuary was developed by tobacco and hydropower magnate James Buchanan Duke beginning in 1893. The estate is now a learning center and model of environmental stewardship. The New Jersey Audubon Society, Raritan Piedmont Wildlife Habitat Partnership, and the Rutgers University School of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Office of Continuing Education offer environmental programs for adults, families, educators and professionals. Stop in the LEED Platinum Orientation Center, housed in the 1906 Farm Barn, for displays, interactive exhibits, maps, entrance tickets and refreshments. Borrow an Eco-kit with binoculars, compass, note pad and field guide. Then board the tram to explore the core of the property across Duke Parkway West including the orchid conservatory, Great Meadow, old foundation of the planned Duke family mansion and over 18 miles of trails. Agriculture programs; horticulture classes; community garden; nature programs for adults and children; Rutgers Environmental Stewards program; self-guided bike and walking tours are offered. Some bikes are available to borrow on a first-come, first-serve basis. Consult website for current schedule of events, www.dukefarms.org. Ongoing GeoTrail, bring your GPS to find 11 caches located on the property. Hike or bike, over 18 miles of trails. Four miles of paved paths are wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. Self-Guided Family Activity Sheets, available to download from website before you arrive. Community Garden, plots awarded through lottery to people who live and/or work in Somerset County. Email cg@dukefarms.org. Monthly Birding by Bicycle, 9-noon once a month on Sat Saturdays seasonally. Bring your own mountain bike and protective headgear. Open to birders,

ages 12 & up. $15, members $10. Limited space, advance registration required. Up with the Birds, guided bird walk for ages 12 & up, 7:30-9:30am on the 3rd Sat. of the month. Bring binoculars. Free, no registration required. Meet at Orientation Center. Dec 21 Selected Adult & Family Programs Advance registration required for most programs. Costs are per person, discounts for NJ Audubon members. Dec 6 Family Night Under the Stars, 8:30-10. $15 per family/group of 5, $5 ea. additional. Dec 14 Sustainable Technology at Duke Farms: An Overview, 12-3. $10. Jan 16 Landscape for Life Series, 5-class series Jan.May. 6-9pm. $50.

Jan 25, Mar 22, Apr 10, May 17, Jun 5, Jul 26 Getting to Know Orchids, 9-12:30. $35.

Feb 15, Apr 12, Jun 14 Discovering Orchids for Kids & Parents, ages 812 and parents. 2-3:30. $10.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors OUTDOOR EDUCATION Duke Farms continued Selected Adult & Family Programs Mar 22 Early Spring Tree ID, 9-noon. $10. May 17 Mid-Spring Tree ID, 9-noon. $10. Jun 21 Early Summer Tree ID, 9-noon. $10. Junior Naturalists Monthly nature program for ages 6-11 with adult is held 13pm Sunday afternoons. Children who complete the annual series receive a Junior Naturalist certificate, ball cap and badge. $7 per session or $70 for series. Jan 26 Nature in Winter: A Tale of Survival. Feb 23 Who’s Eating My Sunflower Seeds? Mar 23 Searching for Signs of Spring. Apr 27 Hummingbirds Come Home. May 25 Avian Symphony. Jun 22 All About Amphibians. Jul 20 Habitat is Another Word for Home. Aug 31 Incredible Insects. Sep 21 Plant a Tree Here, Plant a Tree There. Oct 19 Trees with Leaves. Nov 23 Turkey Time! Dec 14 Coniferous Trees Keep Winter Green. Junior Entomologists Monthly programs for ages 6-11 with adult is held 1-3pm Sundays. Children who complete the series receive a Junior Entomologist Certificate. $7 per session, $60 for series. Feb 9 Introduction to Insects. Mar 16 Insects & Others. Apr 13 Early Pollinators & Early Flowers. May 18 Insects & Birds. Jun 15 Moths & Butterflies. Jul 13 Water Bugs. Aug 10 Cicadas, Katydids & Other Noisemakers. Sep 14 Monarchs. Oct 12 Bumble Bees & Late Pollinators. Nov 16 Become a Plant Hero. Dec 7 Insect Eating Plants. Piedmont Explorers Programs explore the geology and biological diversity of the Piedmont region stretching from New Jersey to Alabama. Appropriate for ages 12 and up. 10-noon. $12 for single class, $40 for series. Feb 1 Geology of the Piedmont. May 3 Spring Wildflowers, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. Sep 27 Autumn Colors, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve.

Essex County Environmental Center West Essex Park, 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973228-8776. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. Environmental Center open Mon.-Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-2, closed holidays. Situated in a wooded wetland habitat with access to the Passaic River, the environmental center serves as central headquarters for most of the environmental groups in Essex County including Master Gardeners, 4-H Club (973-353-1338 x103), Essex County Beekeepers Society, Essex County Nature Photographers, New Jersey Woodturners Association and West Essex Park Conservancy. New Jersey Audubon Society hosts children and adult nature programs and birding field trips. Library; natural history and fine art exhibits; nature and horticulture programs for toddlers to adults; center-based and

outreach programs; teacher workshops; scout programs; birthday parties; summer day camp. Ongoing Little Explorers Nature Program, class for ages 2-5 and their caregiver explores nature through stories, walks and crafts. Nature and Outdoor Programs and Themed Clubs for ages 5-12 include outdoor discoveries, crafts, gardening, cooking, bugs, geology and green kids. 4-H Clubs, a variety of special interest clubs for children in grades 1-8 include environmental club, pet club, stamp club and Lego club. Ongoing Hatfield Swamp Guided Hikes, are scheduled upon request for two or more adults. Free. New Jersey Audubon Society Birding Field Trips, for beginners to experts. Call 908766-5787 for upcoming dates and to register. Yoga Series for Adults, beginner to advanced. Selected Special Events Apr 26 Earth Day, celebrate nature with crafts, games, canoeing, hiking, demonstrations, eco-vendors. 11-4. Free. Selected Children, Family & Adult Programs Pre-registration required for all programs, unless noted. Dec 26- Little Explorers Winter Camp, grades K-3.

Dec 27 Jan 4 Jan 11 Jan 20 Jan 27 Feb 1 Feb 8

Feb 15

Feb 15, Feb 22 Feb 24 Feb 27 Apr 15Apr 17 JulAug

Nature Crafts: Food for the Birds, ages 5-10 and families. 11-12. $9. NJ Audubon: Animal Survivor!, ages 5+ and families. 10:30-12. $7, $5 members. MLK Day Celebration, ages 7-14. $7. NJ Woodturners, adults. Learn to turn. 79:30pm. $9. Seed Starting, adults. 10:30-12. $9. New Jersey Audubon: Discover Backyard Birds, ages 5+ and families. 10:30-12. $10, $8 members. Essential Oil Love Potion Workshop & Valentine Craft, adults & ages 15+. 12-1:30. $25. Hawk Rise Great Backyard Bird Count, for birders of all ages and ability. 8:30-11. Meet at Hawk Rise Sanctuary, Range Rd., Linden. Free. Build a Bird House, adults & ages 10+. 10:30-12. Adults $9, children $7. 3-Day Short Course on Beekeeping, adults & ages 12+. 9-4. $150, call to register 973-3968996 or email Pat at bjornlass@aol.com. NJ Woodturners, adults. Learn to turn. 79:30pm. $9. Green Cleaning with Essential Oils, adults. 6:30-8pm. $20. Spring Camp, grades 2-5. 12:30-4:30. Summer Camp, grades pre-K to 4.

Frelinghuysen Arboretum 53 E. Hanover Ave. (Rt. 511), Morris Township, 973326-7600. Haggerty Education Center: Mon.-Sun. 9-4:30. Grounds: 8am-dusk. Beautifully maintained estate known for its rose garden, lilac collection and ideal setting for informal picnics. Self-guided trail booklets and children’s walking tour map available in the Mansion, headquarters for the Morris County Park Commission. Horticulture programs for adults, children, schools and scouts, 973-326-7603; indoor and outdoor dining at the Cottage garden.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Friends of Frelinghuysen Arboretum Volunteer organization dedicated to the promotion and maintenance of Morris County Park Commission’s horticultural facilities sponsors adult and children’s programs, plant sales and other events. Advance registration required for all programs, 973-326-7603. For program information, call 973631-5004. arboretumfriends.org Ongoing Family Discovery Backpack provides materials, activities and games for families to explore the arboretum. $5, first-come, first serve basis. Branching Out, spring and summer sessions for ages 5-13 to learn about gardening, botany, horticulture. Call 973-631-5004 for more information. Garden Sprouts, introduces children ages 3kindergarten to plants and nature. Scout Programs, workshops for all girl scout levels, cub scouts and boy scouts. 973-631-5004. Junior Master Gardeners, school-year-long gardening and horticulture science program for grades 3-5. Call 973-631-5004 for information. Cell Phone Tours, available online under “Resources.” www.arboretumfriends.org Unplugged: Board Games, classic and naturethemed board games for rent, $1 per hr. Sat & Family Photo Scavenger Hunt, grab a camera Sun or phone for monthly scavenger hunt. Take a photo of every item and receive a prize. Anytime 9-3:30 weekends. $10 per family. 1st Sun Garden Tours, first Sun. April-Oct. at 2pm. Free. Apr 6, May 4 Selected Family Events Dec 26- Special Holiday Scavenger Hunt, bring your Dec 31 camera or cell phone, find the items on the list and take home a prize. 9-5. $10/family. Mar 8 Matilda’s Tea Party, tea, brunch & a magic show. 11-12. $25, pre-registration required. Mar 30 Seedball Sunday, ages 6 & up with adult. make seedballs for Frelinghuysen’s meadows and your own restoration projects. 10-11. $15. Garden Sprouts Garden walk, activity and story for ages 3-5 and caregiver. Mondays at 11am. $7. To register, call 973-635-6629. Jan 13 Over & Under. Jan 27 The Nose Knows. Feb 3 Shadows of Spring. Feb 10 The Shape of Things. Feb 24 Shake It Up! Mar 3 Play with your Food. Mar 10 Drip Drip Drip. Mar 17 Lucky Day. Mar 24 Sprouts in Spring. Mar 31 There’s No Place Like Home. Selected Adult Events Pre-registration required, 973-326-7603. Jan 15 Flower Arranging Workshop using Pressed Flowers, 1-3:30. $25. Feb 2 Dreaming of Wildflowers, lecture and planting. 1-2. $25. Feb 11 Hearts & Flowers for Valentine’s Day, design an innovative bouquet, all levels. 1-3:30. $65. Feb 22 Tanked: Indoor Aquatic Gardens, New Jersey Aquatic Gardeners Club presentation. 1-2. $5.

Feb 23

Cooking Demonstration: Do Ahead Hor D’oeuvres, 1-3. $25. Mar 12 Lettuce Begin, lettuce talk and seed planting. 10:30-12 & 6:30-8pm. $18. Mar 19 “Spring Emerging” Flower Arranging Workshop, 1-3:30pm. $65. Mar 23 Cooking Demonstration: Rhubarb, 1-3. $25. Mar 26 Benjamin Blackburn Scholarship Tea: Beatrix Farrand, Rediscovered, dramatic performance and tea benefits Benjamin Blackburn Scholarship. 1pm. $50. Mar 29 How To House Plants, 10-11am. $15. Tri-State Hosta Society Annual Plant Sale. Apr 6 African Violet Club Annual AVSA Show. May 3-4 Plant Sale in the Tent, largest sale in the area, plant experts will be on hand. 9-3. Grow, Cook, Eat Gardening series on the third Wed. of the month during gardening season focuses on a different vegetable each month with planting tips, growing suggestions, pests, diseases, recipes and a tasting sample. 7-8:30pm. $20. Mar 19 Peas.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Helen S. Fenske Visitor Center, 32 Pleasant Plains Rd., Harding Twp., 973-425-9510. North Gate bridge is open during visitor center hours. Thurs.-Fri. 12-4, Sat.-Sun. 10-4. Stop in for maps, information and visit the interactive exhibits and Discovery Den for children, bookstore and gift shop. Friends of Great Swamp offers public and members-only programs, special events, group tours for schools, scouts, youth and adult organizations (908-647-2508), outreach speakers (908232-2921), and Swamp in a Box loan program (908-6475740). See listing under Hiking & More for additional info. www.friendsofgreatswamp.org Ongoing Junior Refuge Manager Activity Guides for ages 5-13 sell for $1 each. After guide is complete, child will receive a certificate and badge. Refuge Readers, adult book group meets monthly on the third Fri. All are welcome. Jan 17, Feb 21, Mar 21 Nature on Film–Lunch & A Movie, bring a lunch, dessert provided. 12:30-1:30 on first Thurs. Jan 2, Feb 6, Mar 6 Nature on Film–Rerun!, 1:30-2:30 on third Sat. Jan 18, Feb 15, Mar 15 1st Refuge Ramble, informal guided walk 1:30Sun 2:30pm on the 1st Sunday of the month. Jan 5, Feb 2, Mar 2 2nd Second Sunday…with Friends, may include Sun talk for adults, nature program, film, walk, 1:30-3pm. Registration not required. Visit website for scheduled activity. Jan 12 Who Uses the Wood Duck Box? Feb 9 Using Primitive Tools. Mar 9 Refuges of New Jersey. Selected Special Events Jan 15 Refuge Work Day, help with an outdoor project. 1-4pm. Meet at Visitor Center. Jan 26 Wilderness 50th Event, strap on your x-country skis for a group trek. 12-3pm. Lack of snow date: Feb. 23. Feb 14- Great Backyard Bird Count, nature activities, Feb 17 crafts for kids, programs, guided walks. Bird watchers of all ages & skills welcome. 12-4.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors OUTDOOR EDUCATION Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge cont. Selected Special Events Feb 14 Wilderness Area Owl Walk, under the “snow” moon. 5:30-7:30pm at Wildlife Observation Center. Registration required. Feb 16 Volunteer Orientation, for prospective volunteers. Mar 16 Navigation Basics, all ages. 12-3pm. Mar 22 Refuge Work Day, join in spring cleanup. 11-1. Mar 23- Spring Migration Staffing Season, volunteers Jun 15 needed. Mar 23, Spring Woodcock Walks, watch the elaborate Apr 6 mating displays of the American woodcock. 6:30-dusk.

Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center 247 Southern Blvd., Chatham Township, 973-635-6629. Visitor Center open daily 9-4:30. Interactive exhibit area and library. Pick up a self-guiding trail booklet for the 2 miles of trails and boardwalks that lead through wooded and swamp habitats. Weekend family programs, environmental programs for toddlers to adults, guided trail walks, Baby & Me Hikes, scout and school programs, homeschool programs and teacher training workshops available. Ongoing Outdoor Adventure, naturalist-led walks, hikes or other outdoor activities scheduled every week. Mon Toddler Trek, walk and story for toddlers ages 23 with adult. 9:30 or 10:45. $5 / child, advance registration required. Dec 9 Who’s Sleeping? Jan 13 Frigid Flyers. Jan 27 Who’s Sleeping? Feb 3 Maple Sugaring for Seedlings. Feb 24 Who Goes There? Mar 10 Frog Frenzy. Mar 24 Spring Has Sprung. Awesome Animal Artists, indoor/outdoor art program for ages 5-9. Parents are welcome to participate. 4-5. $5. Jan 24, Feb 3, Mar 10 Tues Pre-K Walk, hour-long nature walk and craft for ages 4-5 with adult. 10am. $5, limited space, reservations open 2 weeks prior to event. Dec 17 Snowy Snowflakes. Jan 14 Nighty Night Bear. Feb 11 Sap to Syrup. Mar 25 Spring Ahead. Baby & Me Hikes, weekly hikes for parents, grandparents or caretakers and infant children to discover nature at different park locations. All babies must be in front- or backpack; no siblings or strollers. 9:30-11. $1, registration required. Dec 10, 17, Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, Feb 11, 18, 25, Mar 4, 11, 18, 25 Wed Homeschool Adventures, monthly themed programs designed for homeschool families. 12:30pm. $8 per child 3 & over. Dec 11 Birds of Prey. Jan 22 Winter Tracking. Feb 19 Maple Sugaring. Mar 19 Be Bear Aware.

Wed

Creature Crafters, monthly indoor/outdoor art program for ages 5-9. Parents are welcome to participate. 4-5pm. $5. Jan 15, Feb 12, Mar 12 Thurs Nature’s Little Explorers, 6 week nature program for ages 2 & 3 with adult includes walks, activities and crafts. 9:45 or 10:45am Thursdays. $55. Jan 23-Feb 27, Mar 20-Apr 23 Sat Little Critter Storytime, nature stories, crafts, games or walks each month for ages 3-6. 10. $3. Dec 14, Mar 8 Selected Children & Family Events Pre-registration required, unless noted. Fee is per person ages 3 and up. Dec 15 Sense-ational Swamp, all ages. 2pm. Dec 20 Winter Solstice Celebration, campfire, solstice celebration. Ages 6+. 7-8pm. $8.

Dec 29, Jan 18, Feb 9 Dec 30Dec 31

Eagle Watching Trip, van trip to NY and PA to view wintering Bald Eagles. Ages 16+. 9-5. $35. Wild About Winter Mini-Camp, ages 2-4 with adult, 10-11:30, $10 per day; ages 5-8, 9:30noon, $15 per day. The Birds of Winter, all ages. 2pm. $3 per session.

Jan 5, Feb 6 Jan 11-12, 19, 25-26, Feb 1-2, 8, 15-16, 22-23

Jan 12 Jan 25, Feb 22 Feb 13 Mar 1 Mar 16 Mar 20 Mar 27

Maple Sugaring Demo, all ages. Learn how to identify and tap maple trees, collect sap and make syrup; guided walk; taste tests. $3. No registration required. Coping with Cold, ages 3+. 10am. $3. Weekend Family Walk, all ages. 10am. $2. Nature’s Valentine Walk & Craft, all ages. 1pm. $5. Maple Sugar Festival, tapping demos, games, sugaring walks, crafts, maple syrup snow cones & taste tests. 12-4. $4. No registration required. Tree Talk, walk & craft. Ages 3+. 2pm. $3. Welcome Spring Walk, all ages. 1pm. $3. Frog Jamboree, spring peepers and wood frogs call from the vernal pools. All ages. 2pm. $3.

Hunterdon County Parks & Recreation Office location: 1020 Rt. 31N, Lebanon Twp., 908-782-1158. Surrounding park headquarters are 2 miles of nature trails winding through display gardens including children’s garden and picnic area. Over 7,000 acres of public open space at parks and preserves are maintained throughout the county. Parks staff lead a wide selection of daytime and evening nature, sports, art and crafts programs for children, families, adults and school/community groups. Programs on nature, camping and outdoor skills are available to groups both onand off-site. Popular offerings include summer day camps, after-school nature programs, canoe trips, birding trips and walks and free summer concert series. www.co.hunterdon.nj.us, click on Parks and Recreation. Ongoing Basketry & Art Workshops & Classes, for children and adults. SepNature Club for Kids, seasonal children’s series May for ages 4-Kindergarten includes hikes at Echo Hill or Mountain Farm and hands-on activities. Jan 7-Feb 25 Winter at Echo Hill, Tues. Apr 1-May 20 Spring at Echo Hill, Tues. Apr 3-May 27 Spring at Mountain Farm, Thurs.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Young Artists Drawing and Painting, art series for ages 6-10 at Arboretum in Lebanon. Thursday Evening Art Studio, art series for ages 15-adult of all levels. Jan 30-Feb 27 Artists in Training Drawing & Painting, art series for ages 11-15 at Arboretum. Home School Environmental Series, monthly programs explore diverse natural science topics for ages 5-12 Sept.-May at Echo Hill. Eco Book Club, adult club meets monthly. Birding Trips and Bird Walks, for adults. Wed Kidz Art for Home Schooled, six Wed. for ages 815. 9-10:30. $90. Jan 8-Feb 12 Mar 5-Apr 9 Apr 23-May 28 Selected Children & Family Events At Echo Hill, unless noted. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Most programs require registration. Dec 30 Lets Play with Clay: You & Me Make It, ages 8+. 4-5pm. $5. Jan 6 Wildlife Snacks, ages 8+. 4-5pm. $7. Jan 24 Kids Tote Basket, ages 8 & up with adult. 5:309:30pm, Arboretum. $30. Jan 29 Rain Barrel Workshop, ages 13-adult. 7-9. $63. Feb 13 Dad & Me: Valentine Floral Arrangement, ages 3+. 4:30-6pm. $25 per father-child pair. Feb 15 Great Backyard Bird Count, ages 8-adult. 9:3011, Arboretum. $3. Maple Sap Collection, ages 5-adult. 1-2:30. $3. Feb 21 Star Program, ages 8+. 7:30-9pm, Hoffman Park. $3. Feb 22 Bike Safety Program, ages 8+. 10-12. $3. Mar 1 Children’s Simple Basket with Beads, ages 6 with adult. 5:30-8pm. $8. Mar 8 Maple Sugaring Living History Program, 9-3. Tours begin every 20 min. and last approx. 1 hr. Pre-registration is not required. $1. Mar 12 Build A Bluebird Box Workshop, ages 8+. 78:30pm. $15. Mar 18 Woodcock Watch, ages 5-adult. 7-8pm, Tower Hill springhouse. $3. Apr 16, Spring Break Camp, grades K-5. 9-3:30. $25.

Apr 23 Apr 25 Apr 26

Apr 27 May 3-4 May 17 May 23 May 28 May 31 Jun 10

Sunset Hike & Campfire, ages 5-adult. 7-9. $3. 14th Annual Earth Day Celebration, all ages. Carnival-like games and challenges made from repurposed items, live animals, 4-H clubs, canoes, crafts, food. 10:30-4, Deer Path Park. Pre-registration not required. Kidz Trinket Basket, ages 11. 1-5pm. $25. Backpacking: High Point, ages 14-adult. Children’s Napkin Basket, ages 9 with adult. 5:30-8:30pm. $12. Evening with Four Planets Visible, 9-10:30pm, Hoffman Park. $3. Wild Tea Party, making tea with wild plants. Ages 10-adult. 6:30-8pm. $3. Invasive Plant Pull Volunteer Opportunity, ages 12-adult. 8:30-12:30, Hoffman Park. Free. Firefly Hunt, all ages. 8-9pm, Mountain Farm Visitor Center. $3.

JunAug

Summer Camps, week-long nature, art, theatre, sports-themed camps for grades K-10. Volunteer opportunities for teens in grade 1012 to serve as Counselors-in-Training.

Kay Environmental Center 200 Pottersville Rd., Chester Twp., 973-635-6629. Former 400-acre estate with hiking trails through fields, forest and along the Black River. If you follow the red trail blazes to the river, a left before the bridge will take you to a beautiful hemlock gorge, short waterfalls and to the stone ruins of an old summer house and dam. The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey 200 Pottersville Rd., Chester, 908-879-7262. Delaware Bayshores Office: 2350 Rt. 47, Delmont, 609-861-0600. Headquartered in New Jersey at Kay Environmental Center, The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization whose mission is to protect ecologically important open spaces, primarily through acquisition. Field trips, programs and volunteer opportunities are available for members and the public. Special events and trips are planned at Kay Center and at Conservancy preserves in Warren, Sussex, Cumberland and Cape May Counties. Visit www.nature.org/newjersey for public events and field trips. Late Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Phenomenon, May caravan through the Delaware Bayshores and see the ancient ritual between horseshoe crabs and the red knot, one of the longest distance migrants in the animal kingdom.

Kittatinny Valley State Park Goodale Rd. (off Rt. 206N), Andover, 973-786-6445. Featuring glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings and access to the Paulinskill Valley and Sussex Branch rail trails, this State Park offers challenging mountain biking, easy family biking, hiking, fishing, boating and kayaking, 3 group campsites as well as cross country skiing and ice fishing in winter. Interpretive programs are scheduled year round, each weekend during the spring and summer, with less frequency during fall and winter. Visit www.njparksandforests.org for current schedule. Ongoing Junior Naturalist Workbook & Program for ages 7-12. Stop by the park visitor center for info. Geocaching, over 200 geocaches are waiting to be discovered in the park. To participate, create an account on the official website at www.geocaching.com. To learn about NJ geocaching, visit www.nnjc.org or attend a “Geocaching for Beginners” workshop offered monthly at the park. Selected Children & Family Programs No fee, but pre-registration required for all programs. Visit website for adult programs. Dec 21 Winter Solstice Hike, 3.5 mile for adults. 10-12.

Lakota Wolf Preserve 89 Mt. Pleasant Rd. (Rt. 80W, exit 4), Columbia, 877-733-9653. Wolf watch programs presented twice daily; closed Mon. Summer: 10:30 & 4. Fall & winter: 10:30 & 3. Call for reservations. An appointment is required for weekday watches. Adults $16.05, ages 2-11 $7.49. Enjoy a scenic walk to an observation area in the center of four packs of Tundra, Timber and Arctic wolves. Learn about them through informal talks with caretakers and direct observation. Picnicking, hiking and swimming at Camp Taylor Campground (908-4964333) is included in fee.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors OUTDOOR EDUCATION Liberty State Park Interpretive Center Morris Pesin Dr. (Exit 14B NJ Tnpk.), Jersey City, 201-915-3402 x109. Free. In addition to being a launching point to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Liberty State Park is a scenic natural area featuring bike/walking paths, a giant playground and an interpretive center with nature trail, exhibits, offering environmental programs, outreach programs and professional development workshops for educators. Also see listing under Historic Sites. Selected Interpretive Programs 10-noon, unless noted. Free, pre-registration required. Call to confirm program will be held while the Interpretive Center is closed. JunKayak Eco-Tours, adults and ages 16 and up Aug explore the salt marsh and beach habitats from the water. Call to be placed on mailing list, 201915-3409. Free, pre-registration required. Hurricane Sandy Update Interpretive Center is temporarily closed, most of Liberty State Park is open. Some interpretive programs are being offered within the park. Call or visit website for scheduled events and reopening date, www.njparksandforests.org.

Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center 331 Georgia Tavern Rd. (GSP exit 98), Howell, 732-751-9453. Daily 10-4:30; until 8:30pm on Fridays Memorial Day to Labor Day. Visitors learn about the importance of water, wetlands ecology and wildlife and habitat protection through interactive exhibits, multi-media presentations and wildlife observation areas. Free nature programs are offered most weekends. School, scout and group programs available. Monmouth County Parks offers extensive programming for children, teens, parents & childrent and adults at parks throughout the county. Complete guides are published seasonally. Feb 12 Monmouth County Parks spring program registration, begins. Mar 9 Monmouth County Parks summer camp/swim registration, begins. May 7 Monmouth County Parks summer program registration, begins. Selected Weekend Programs Dec 21-22 Winter Wonderland Walk, 1pm. Dec 28-29 Nature Movies, ongoing.

Meadowlands Environment Center 2 DeKorte Park Plaza (east end of Valley Brook Rd.), Lyndhurst, 201-460-8300. Weekdays 8-4, Sat. & Sun. 10-3, closed holidays. Trails open daily. Interactive learning center and observatory, built to LEED standards, is situated in a portion of Richard W. DeKorte Park, an area of several hundred acres of reclaimed landfills and revitalized wetlands along the Hackensack River and an annual migratory stop for thousands of waterfowl and shorebirds. Barrier-free trails with bird and photo blinds; environmental and astronomy education programs for children and adults; interactive exhibits trace environmental history of the Meadowlands; nature walks; teacher development workshops; school programs; outreach programs; scout programs; gift shop. From April-Oct. canoe and kayak rentals are available at Hackensack Riverkeeper Paddling Center in Laurel Hill County Park, Secaucus. Paddlers can explore the marsh-

lands of the Sawmill Creek Wildlife Management Area. Guided paddles, bird walks, eco-cruises, river clean-up days and group outreach programs are offered. For info, call 201968-0808 or visit www.hackensackriverkeeper.org. Ongoing William D. McDowell Observatory, open to the public Mon. and Wed. nights with clear skies. Free Guided Nature Walks, first Sun. and third Tues. of each month with Bergen County Audubon Society. Check website for time and location, www.njmeadowlands.gov/events. html, and meadowblog.net for last minute updates. MayEco-Cruises, Canoe & Kayak Rentals, Guided Oct Paddles, www.hackensackriverkeeper.org. JunNJMC Canoe Tours, three-hour tour of salt marsh; Sep NJMC Pontoon Boat Tours, two-hour tour departs from River Barge Park, Carlstadt. Ages 10 and up. For schedule and info, call 201-460-4640.

Merrill Creek Reservoir 34 Merrill Creek Rd. (Exit 4 Rt. 78W), Harmony Twp., 908-4541213. Open daily daylight hours. Visitors Center: weekdays 8:30-4:30, weekends 10-4. 290-acre environmental preserve surrounds this reservoir that was developed by 7 electric utility companies to store water for release to the Delaware River during periods of low flow. Visitors Center features hands-on exhibits, dioramas and displays. Emphasis is on lowimpact activities — hiking trails, wildlife observation blind, cross-country skiing. Swimming, camping and picnicking are prohibited. Stocked reservoir is popular for fishing and boating (canoes, sailboats and fishing boats, no gas motors). Naturalist-led environmental education programs available for all organized non-profit groups, ages pre-K to adult.

New Jersey Audubon Society Independent, membership-supported organization has the mission to foster environmental awareness and a conservation ethic among citizens, protect New Jersey’s birds and other animals and plants, and promote preservation of New Jersey’s natural habitats. The organization maintains stewardship of 34 sanctuaries and conducts adult, family and children’s programs at eight staffed and partner facilities. • Cape May Bird Observatory Center for Research & Education: 600 Rt. 47 N., Cape May Court House, 609-861-0700. Nature Center of Cape May, 1600 Delaware Ave., Cape May, 609-898-8848. Northwood Center: 701 E. Lake Dr., Cape May Point, 609884-2736. • Duke Farms 80 Rt. 206S, Hillsborough, 908-837-9341 (NJAS partner site). See separate listing. • Essex County Environmental Center 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776 (NJAS partner site). See separate listing. • Hawk Rise Sanctuary End of Range Rd. (GPS 1811 Lower Rd.), Linden. Public programs are listed under Scherman-Hoffman Sanctuary. • Lorrimer Sanctuary 790 Ewing Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-2185. • Plainsboro Preserve 80 Scotts Corner Rd., Cranbury, 609-897-9400. See separate listing. • Scherman-Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary–headquarters. 11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-5787. See separate listing.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

• Wattles Stewardship Center 1024 Anderson Rd., Port Murray, 908-837-9571. Selected Special Events MayHarbor Safari, seine Cape May Harbor to disAug cover the diverse marine life there with special emphasis on horseshoe crabs. Contact Nature Center of Cape May for info.

Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center Rt. 46 (Rt. 78 to Rt. 31N to Rt. 46E 2 miles), Oxford, 908-637-4125. Open Mon.-Fri. 10-4; closed weekends except for special events. Free. 600,000 brook, brown and rainbow trout are raised here annually to stock over 200 public waters. Self-guided tour, videos, exhibit hall, hiking trails and picnic grounds. Group programs. Children and adult workshops related to wildlife and natural resources are offered select weekends. Check website for monthly listings. www.NJfishandwildlife.com

Plainsboro Preserve 80 Scotts Corner Rd., Cranbury, 609-897-9400. Tues.-Sat. 95, Sun. 12-5. Hiking trails open daily dawn to dusk. A joint effort of the Township of Plainsboro, County of Middlesex and New Jersey Audubon Society, the preserve includes a nature center with exhibits, reference library, nature store and over five miles of trails through a variety of habitats. Programming includes family nature programs, field trips and programs for adults and teens, and school vacation and summer camps for ages 6-12. Ongoing Nature Field Trips, for adults and teens, explore a natural area of New Jersey with an environmental educator. Bird Seed Sale Days, all day the first weekend of every month. JunSummer Camps 9am-4pm for grades 1-9. Sign Aug up for one week or the whole summer. Family Nature Programs Saturdays from 2:30-4pm. Perfect for beginning naturalists and their families ages 6 to adult. $5, $3 members, unless noted. Pre-registration is encouraged. Dec 21 Make a Birdhouse or Birdfeeder. Dec 22 The Wonders of Winter Birding. Dec 28 Full Moon Hike, 4:30-6:30pm. Jan 5 Animal Tracking. Jan 12 Summer Camp Open House, 10-1pm. Free. Jan 19 New Jersey Owl Prowl, 6-8pm. Jan 26 Full Moon Hike, 5-6:30pm. Feb 2 Winter Wonderland Hike. Feb 9 Is That an Igloo? Survival Shelters. Feb 16 The Beavers of Lake McCormack. Feb 23 Animal Detectives. Selected School Vacation Camps Outdoor and indoor nature programs for grades 1-6. 9am4pm. $55 per day, pre-registration required. Jan 21 Winter Survival, Martin Luther King Day. Mar 25- Spring into Spring Break.

Mar 29 Selected Programs for Adults & Teens Visit website for complete list of field trips and programs. Most trips cost $25, $20 members. Pre-registration required, 609-897-9400. Jan 6 Sparrow Identification, A Workshop, 1-2. $20/$15. Jan 19, Winter Tracking at Duke Farms, 9-12. $15/$10.

Feb 9

Jan 26 Feb 3 Feb 8 Feb 9

Winter Birding at Duke Farms, 1-5:30. Waterfowl, An ID Workshop, 1-2pm. New Jersey Owl Prowl, 6-8:30pm. Winter Tracking at Duke Farms, 9-12. $15/$10.

Pyramid Mountain 247 Boonton Ave., Boonton, 973-334-3130. Park open year ’round dawn to dusk. Visitors Center Wed.-Sun. 10-4:30. Call for winter hours. Trail guide available at Visitors Center for wooded trails to Tripod Rock, a 180-ton boulder balanced atop three smaller rocks, Bear Rock, and to the top of Pyramid Mountain for fabulous views of the New York City skyline. Nature programs; guided hikes; preschool walks; nature puppet shows; school programs; scout badge programs; birthday parties. All programs require advance registration. Ongoing Baby & Me Hikes, seasonally for parents, grandparents or caretakers and infant children to discover nature. All babies must be in front- or backpack; no registration. Tues Toddler Treks, toddlers ages 2 and 3 with an adult learn about nature with walks and stories on a new topic each month. 10-11am. $5. Jan 28 Frigid Flyers. Feb 11 Who Goes There? Mar 11 Frog Frenzy. Preschool Walk, monthly guided theme walk and activity for ages 4 and 5 with an adult. 1011am. $5. Feb 18 Keeping Warm. Mar 18 Spring Ahead. Tues, Nature’s Classroom, 4-week hands-on science Thurs education for homeschoolers 6-8 and 9-12 yrs. old. 1-3:30pm. $45 for series or $12 per class. Jan 28 Animal Signs, ages 6-8. Jan 30 Classification, ages 9-12. Feb 6 Skulls & Bones, ages 9-12. Feb 11 Mammals, ages 6-8. Feb 20 Orienteering, ages 9-12. Feb 25 Owls & Pellets, ages 6-8. Feb 27 Winter Hike Snowshoe Trek, ages 9-12. Mar 4 Winter Hike Snowshoe Trek, ages 6-8. Wed Nature’s Little Explorers, 6-week nature program for parent and toddlers age 2-3. 1010:45. $55. Jan 22-Feb 26, Mar 19-Apr 22 Awesome Animal Artists, for ages 5-9. Monthly indoor/outdoor program features a different animal each session. 4-5pm. $5. Jan 22, Feb 12, Mar 12 Selected Family Events Advance registration required. Hikes and programs are appropriate for ages 7 and up, unless noted. Fees are per person, ages 3 and older. Dec 11 Family Walk: Make Way for Winter, all ages. 12:30. $2. Dec 15 Holiday Hike: Moderate, 1-3. $1. Dec 21 Welcome Winter Hike: Moderate, 1-3:30. $1. Jan 1 Welcome the New Year Hike, all ages. 1-2:30. $1. Jan 5 Trek to Tripod Rock: Moderate, 1-3. $1. Jan 11 Lil’ Critters Storytime, ages 3-6 with adult. 1011. $3.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors OUTDOOR EDUCATION Pyramid Mountain continued Selected Family Events Jan 12 Snowshoe Adventure: Modernate, ages 8+. 12:30-3:30. $15 ages 13+, $10 ages 8-12. Jan 15 Full Moon Owl Prowl: Moderate, 6-8:30. $5. Jan 29 Family Walk: Winter Wonders, ages 4+. 1-2:30. $4 per child. Feb 8 Lil’ Critters Storytime, ages 3-6. 10-11. $3. Feb 9 Snowshoe Adventure: Moderate, ages 8+. 12:30-3:30. $15 ages 13+, $10 ages 8-12. Feb 14- Great Backyard Bird Count: Easy, ages 5+, assist Feb 16 birdwatchers across the continent to count birds in a 15-minute period. 9-4. Free, pre-register. Feb 23 Woodpecker Hike: Moderate, 1-3. $1. Feb 14- Great Backyard Bird Count: Easy, age Mar 2 Basic Map & Compass Hike: Moderate, 1-3. $1. Mar 5 Family Walk: Here Comes the Sun, ages 4+. 12:30. $3 per child. Mar 8 Weekend Family Walk: Easy, all ages. 1-2:30. $2. Mar 16 Green Trail Hike: Moderate, 1-3. $1. Mar 29 Lil’ Critters Storytime, ages 3-6. 10-11. $3. Mar 30 Chorus of Frogs Walk: Easy, ages 5+. 1-2:30. $1.

The Raptor Trust 1390 White Bridge Rd., Millington, 908-647-2353. Education Center, 908-647-1091. Open year round 7 days during daylight hours. Suggested donation $2 ea. adult. Avian rehabilitation center supplies care, diet and housing for distressed wild birds with the goal of returning healthy, self-sufficient birds to the wild. Outdoor display area for unreleasable hawks, eagles, falcons and owls is open to the public. Group outreach, on-site programs, and telephone advisory service for wild bird related problems; gift shop. Selected Special Events Dec 13 Great Swamp Owl Prowl, ages 15-adult. 710pm. Suggested donation $10, registration required.

Reeves Reed Arboretum 165 Hobart Ave., Summit, 908-273-8787. Grounds open daily daylight hours. Office and library open Mon.-Fri. 9-5. Gift shop open Mon.-Sat. 10-4. Memberships available. Woodland walks, perennial gardens, rose, daylily, herb and daffodil gardens. Picnics and dogwalking are prohibited. Elephant Tree Nature Camp for children in July and Aug.; children, adult and family workshops; nature birthday parties. Teens are welcome to volunteer. Garden Shop. Ongoing Cell Phone Audio Tours, look for the yellow signs throughout the site indicating an audio stop. Discovery Saturdays, Carriage House Discovery Center is open 9am-1pm Sat. Mar.-Oct. for handson activities tailored for children ages 4-10 accompanied by an adult. $5 per child, drop in. Oaks & Acorns, 5-week nature series for ages 35 with adult. $70/series. Mar 12-Apr 9 Signs of Spring. Apr 30-May 28 It’s A Small World. Apr Daffodils, see over 40,000 in bloom. Jun Butterfly Garden in bloom. Sat Saturday Volunteers, 9-12 most Saturdays. Contact Lisa Martin, l.martin@reeves-reed arboretum.org to sign up.

Selected Children & Family Events Advance registration required. Jan 11 Tap that Tree!, families with children ages 5 and up. 1-2:30. $20/family. Feb 2 It’s Groundhog Day, families with children ages 3 and up. 1-2:30. $20/family. Feb 8 Backyard Birding for Families, ages 6 and up. Get ready for Great Backyard Bird Count. 1011:30. $20/family. Feb 23 Maple Sugaring Fest, 1-4pm. $5, $20/family.

Apr 4, May 2, 30 Apr 27

Nocturnal Neighbors, families with children ages 5 and up. 7-9pm. $20/family. Daffodil Day, family games, nature crafts, guided parade, food. 11-4. $10, $25/family.

Scherman-Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary 11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-5787. Trails open 7 days to 5pm, Hoffman building open Tues.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. noon-5. 276-acre wildlife sanctuary belongs to the New Jersey Audubon Society. The new Hoffman Center for Conservation and Environmental Education features an environmental learning center, tree-top level observation deck, exhibits, book and gift shop. 3.2 miles of trails lead through woodland, field and floodplain habitats. Patriot’s Path can be reached from the Scherman parking lot. Field trips; adult and family programs; summer natural history day camp for ages 4-middle school; overnight camps; teacher workshops; digital photography workshops; birthday parties. Group programs and tours by reservation; outreach lectures and slide programs available for club meetings and special events; eco-travel. Publishers of Bridges to the Natural World, a manual for exploring New Jersey habitats with children. Ongoing Bird Walks, every Fri. & Sat. 8-9am. Free. Adult Field Trips, to different wildlife areas. Birdseed Sale Days, buy locally grown birdseed, mixes & suet, 9-5 the first weekend of each month. Little Naturalists Program, story, mini-hike, outdoor activity and craft for ages 2-4 with adult during the school year. Selected Family Events Saturdays, 2-3:30pm. $7, $5 members, unless noted. Advance registration required. Jan 4 Winter Animal Signs & Tracks. Feb 1 Give A Hoot! Owls at Scherman Hoffman. Feb 8 Summer Camp Open House, 1-4. Free. Feb 15 Great Backyard Bird Count, all ages. 10:30-12, Greenwood Gardens, 274 Old Short Hills Rd., Short Hills. Call 973-258-4026 to register. $12/$10. Mar 1 Maple Sugaring, ages 4-12 and family. 10-12. Apr 5 Bird Study Boy Scout Merit Badge, 12:30-4:30. $25 includes materials fee for bird feeder. Registration and payment required by Mar. 22. Selected Hawk Rise Sanctuary Programs End of Range Rd., Linden. Call Scherman-Hoffman Sanctuary to register, 908-766-5787. Feb 15 Hawk Rise Great Backyard Bird Count, all ages. 8:30-11am. Free. Mar 20 Sunset Hike, all ages. Bring a flashlight. 5:457:15. Free. Selected Children’s Programs JunSummer Camps, see listings under Nature & Aug Science Camps and Overnight Camps for camp options for ages 4-grade 8.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Schiff Nature Preserve

Ongoing Tree House Gang, 4-wk. series for ages 3-5

339 Pleasant Valley Rd., Mendham, 973-543-6004. Schiff Natural Lands Trust, a nonprofit corporation, owns and operates the 340-acre Schiff Nature Preserve as public open space. Eight miles of trails are open daylight hours for hiking, biking, horseback riding or nature study. Year round natural history programs for children and adults, homeschooler program, summer day camps for children (see Camps), and environmental book club for adults are offered. Discounts available to members. Selected Programs SepWalkabout for Preschoolers, ages 3-5. May Hike Mendham, visit www.hikemendham.org for hiking trail guide. Homeschooler Trimester, monthly program each season for grades K-6. Tues Environmental Book Club, adults only. 7pm. Free. Baby & Me Hike, 9:30am. $1. Feb 28 Summer Nature Program Registration, opens. JunSummer Nature Programs, week-long advenAug tures for ages 6-17.

features new theme each month. 12:45-3:15. Tues. Jan 7-28; Thurs. Jan 9-30 Tues. Feb 4-25; Thurs. Feb 13-27 Homeschool Offerings, environmental education programs for ages 7-12 offered once a month. The Green Team, volunteer opportunities for ages 12-15. 1-4pm on select Saturdays. Free. Jan 11, 25, Feb 1, 22, Mar 15, 29, Apr 12, Apr 26, May 3, 17, 31 Camera Naturalists Photo Club, dedicated to art of nature and scenic photography. Meetings generally 2nd Thurs. of the month, 7:30-9:30pm. Selected Exhibitions Jan 2- Nature Through A Child’s Eye, children’s enviJan 27 ronmental art exhibit. Feb 7- Vanishing Act–New Jersey’s Endangered Species, Mar 16 Ridge High School Advanced Ceramics students. Mar 21- Bernards Township Community Art Show, nonApr 27 juried art show of Bernards Twp. residents. May 2- Camera Naturalists Photography Exhibit.

Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center 190 Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489. Daily 9am-5pm. No admission. Home to Secrets of the Great Swamp exhibit hall and a host of classes, lectures, walks, and other environmental education programs. 430 acres bordering the Great Swamp and Passaic River feature 8.5 miles of walking trails with 8,000 ft. boardwalk and special boardwalk for individuals with disabilities, bird blind and frog ponds. Year-round nature and discovery programs are offered for children ages infant–5 with parent, preschoolers–age 12, families and adults; canoe and kayak trips; field trips; summer camps; teacher workshops; outreach to Somerset County schools; cross country skiing in winter. For a full listing of programs for toddlers through adults, call 908-766-2489 or access website. www.somersetcountyparks.org SatFamily Walk, hour-long interpretive walk with Sun naturalist for all ages, no registration necessary (not designed for organized groups such as scouts). 12-1pm selected Sun., 10:30-11:30am selected Sat. Free. Dec 21, 22 (3:30-4:30), Dec 28, Jan 19, 25, 26, Mar 16, 22, 30, Apr 6, May 10, 11, 25, 31 Ongoing Tot Trek, stroller walk for ages infant-5 with parent. 10:30-11:30 monthly. Free. Mar 21, Apr 9, May 16 The Young Explorers Club, series for ages infant5 with parent to explore nature. $22 per pair. Jan 6-27, Feb 3 & 24, Mar 3-24, Apr 7-28, May 5-19 KinderNats, 3-day Junior Naturalist series for children in grades K or 1 meets after school. Jan 6-27, Feb 3 & 24, Mar 3-24, Apr 7-28, May 5-19 Story Hour, story and short walk for ages infant5 with adult. 10:30-11:30. Free. Jan 4, Feb 1, 22, Mar 15, 29, Apr 12, May 3, May 17 River Rats, 4-wk. Saturday series for ages 5-8 features a new theme each session. Jan 4-25, Mar 8-29, Apr 5-26, May 3-24

May 31 Selected Special Events Feb 1- Maple Sugaring, see the Native American tradiMar 9 tion of maple sugaring brought to life at the Sugar Shack, a half-mile hike from the ECC. 90min program. Sat. 10, 12 & 2pm, Sun. 12 & 2pm. Suggested donation $1. Organized groups may schedule weekday demonstrations. Apr 1- Eco-Rally, sign up as individual or team to miniApr 15 mize your carbon footprint, then create a display of your contribution to the environment. Awards. Apr 27 Project E.A.R.T.H. Swamp Search, 12-4:30. Scavenger hunt, environmental games and activities, Mammal Mania program with live mammals, 3:45-4:30. Selected Family Programs Pre-registration is required. Fees are per person. Jan 11 Online Program Registration begins. Jan 12 Staying Warm, all ages. 1-2:30. $9. Jan 19 Adapt-Abilities, all ages. 2-3. Free. Jan 25 Winter Waterfowl, ages 8+ with parent, PowerPoint presentation. 1:30-2:30. $6. Feb 20 Bird Feeder Basics, all ages. 10:30-11:30. $6. Feb 21 Backyard Birds, all ages. 10:30-11:30. $6. Mar 8 Natural Spa, ages 9 and older with parent. Make spa treatments from ingredients commonly found in the kitchen. 1:30-3. $16. Mar 15 Papermaking, all ages. 1:30-2:30. $12. Mar 22 Organic Vegetable Gardening, all ages. 2-3:30. $9. Mar 22 Salamander Adventure at Washington Valley, all ages. 2-4. $12. Mar 23 Woodcock Watch, all ages. 6:30-8pm. Free, preregistration required. Apr 6 Bluebird Walk, all ages. 2-3:30. Free. Apr 13 New Jersey Snakes, all ages. 2-3. Free. Apr 15 Learn to Compost, all ages. 4:15-5:15. $6. Apr 19 Vernal Pool Hoppenings, all ages. 3:30-4:30. $6. Apr 23 Secrets in Somerset County–Bluebell Magic, all ages. 3:30-4:30 Duke Island Park. Free. May 23 Lily Pad Ponding, all ages. 4-5:30. $9. May 31 Nature Photography–From the Field to the Wall, Morning workshop in the field, 8:30-11:30. $45. Afternoon workshop indoor classroom seminar, 1-4:30. $35.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors OUTDOOR EDUCATION Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center continued Selected Infant-Age 5 & Parent Programs 10:30-11:30am. $10 per pair, $5 per additional child. Jan 14 The Scoop on Poop. Feb 25 Cool Critters. Mar 7 Turtle Time. Mar 16 Green is the Color! 2-3pm. Mar 20 Little Green Thumbs, 11-noon. Mar 27 Spring Sensations. Apr 1 April Foolers, camouflage. Apr 17 Splish, Splash!, wear your rubber boots to traverse the trails. Apr 25 Squirmy Wormies.

Somerset County Park Commission Junior Ranger Program Colonial Park, Franklin Twp.; Duke Island Park, Old York Rd., Bridgewater, 908-231-0802, x21. Junior Ranger activity book is available for ages 6-12 to learn about the environment and its inhabitants. After completion, a Park Ranger will review work and present an official Junior Ranger badge.

Stony Brook Millstone Watershed Association 31 Titus Mill Rd., Pennington, 609-737-3735. Reserve open dawn to dusk. Nature Center open Tues.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. 104. Butterfly House open dawn to dusk daily May-Oct. Member supported non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of the natural environment drained by Stony Brook and the Millstone River offers education programs for children, adults and families, summer camp, teacher workshops, school, scout and group on-site and outreach programs. The reserve features hiking trails, pond, open-air Butterfly House, and Buttinger Nature Center which houses two Discovery Rooms with hands-on activities, live animal exhibits and nature shop. Birthday parties. Closed Buttinger Nature Center closed for renovations. Call or check website for reopening date. Ongoing Tiny Tot Walks for ages 18-36 mos. are offered monthly (except Jan. & Feb.). Child must be walking and accompanied by adult. 10-11. $10, $7 members. Preschool Series, introduces ages 3-5 to the natural world. Parents must stay with children under 4. Tues. 10-11:30 or Wed. 1-2:30. $15, $10 members. Jan 7, 8 Story Time Winter. Jan 14, 15 Journey to the Past. Jan 21, 22 Ice & Snow & Things That Glitter. Feb 4, 5 Stalking Shadows. Feb 11, 12 Gift from a Tree. Feb 18, 19 Turtle Time. Feb 25, 26 Insects in the Winter. School Age Series. Tuesdays 4-5:30pm. $50 for 4-week session. Selected Adult & Family Programs Registration required for all programs, unless noted. Call 609-737-7592 to register. Non-member fees are listed first, then members. Dec 21 Candle Making, ages 8+ & family. 1-3. $15/$10. Jan 4 Welcome Winter Walk, adults & families (ages 5+). 9:30-11:30. $5.

Jan 11 Jan 17 Jan 23 Feb 1 Feb 8 Feb 15 Mar 1 Mar 8

Insects in Winter, adults & families. 10-12. $12/$8. Winter Exploration Geocache Event, adults & families. 10-12. $12/$8. In Search of Owls–Presentation & Night Hike, adults & families (ages 6+). 7-8:30. $15/$10. Maple Tree Tapping Time, 12-12:45. $3. Groundhog Day Celebration, 1-3. $5. In Search of Owls–Presentation & Night Hike, adults & families (ages 6+). 7-8:30. $15/$10. The Life of Trees: Painting & Sculpting Workshop, adults. 10-3:30. $60/$45. Animal Tracks, Trails & Tales, families & adults. 10-12. $10/$7. Maple Sugar Memories, 10:30-12, 1:30-3. $15/$10 per family. Pysanky–Ukrainian Egg Decorating, adults. 102. $60/$50. Call Arts Council of Princeton to register, 609-924-6777.

Mar 15, Apr 12, May 17 2014 Watershed Nature Camp Open House, 24pm. Free.

Tenafly Nature Center 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, 201-568-6093. Visitors Center open weekdays. 9-5, weekends 11-4. Trails open dawn to dusk. Free admission. Six miles of trails, pond, Visitors Center with live animals and interactive displays. Afterschool programs, parent/child programs, weekend family programs, scout programs, seasonal activities, outreach and summer camp. Ongoing Guided Nature Walks, seasonal topics and activities the first Sun. of the month. All ages, no strollers. Sun. 3:30-4:30. $5, members free. Feb 2, Mar 2, Apr 6 (3-4pm) Seasonal Scavenger Hunt, for adults and children ages 4 & up on the 2nd Sat. Arrive between 2 & 3. $10/$5, family max. $30/$20. Dec 14, Jan 11, Feb 8, Mar 8, Apr 12 Nature Story Time, for families with children 3-7 yrs. old on the third Sat. of the month. 11:30-12:15. Dec 21, Jan 18, Feb 15, Mar 15, Apr 19 Little Naturalists, series for 21⁄2 and 3 yr. olds with adult. 1-2. Sign up for series or single session. Jan 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 25, Mar 4, 11, Apr 22, 29 (11-12) Afternoon Explorers, series for 4-5 yr. olds. 3:45-4:45. Sign up for series or single session. Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26, Mar 5, 12, Apr 23, 30 Home Ecologists Home School Program, series or single sessions during the school year for families with children 5-12 years old. Space is limited, advance registration is required. Home school groups can schedule a private class. Jan 6, 20 Animal Tracks. 1-3pm. Feb 3, 10 Winter Adaptations. 1-3pm. New Adventures in Reading StoryWalk Outdoor Exhibit, hikers read pages of a nature-themed story while they walk in the woods. A new story is posted each season. Dec 21, Mar 15 New StoryWalk posted.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Selected Events Pre-registration required for all programs.

Dec 17, Jan 15, Feb 14, Mar 16, Apr 15 Dec 26Dec 27 Jan 12 Jan 18 Jan 19

Full Moon Hike, 2-hr. walk recommended for adults. 6:30-8:30; Mar 16 7-9. $10/$5. Winter Break Camp, pre-K & K meets 9-12 and/or 12:30-3:30; grades 1-5, 9-3:30. Threatened, Endangered, Extinct or Recovering?, adults & families (ages 7+). 23:30. $10/$5. Winter Seasonal Volunteer Day, adults & teens ages 14+ needed. 10-12. Owl Prowl, adults & families (ages 5+). 5-6:30. $10/$5. Birders without Borders: Eagle Watching on the Hudson River, adults & families (ages 10+). 9:30-4:30. $20/$15.

Feb 2, 9, 16, 23, Mar 2, 9, 16 Feb 15 Feb 17Feb 21 Mar 13 Mar 22 Mar 23 Late Mar Apr 5 Apr 13 Apr 14Apr 18 Apr 19

Apr 26 Apr 27

Maple Sugaring, all ages. 12:30-1:30, 2-3. $10/$5. Backyard Birds at TNC, adults & families (ages 10+). 2-3. $10/$5. Presidents Week Camp, pre-K & K meets 9am12 or 12:30-3:30; grades 1-5 meet 9-3:30. Where are the Kestrels?, adults. 4-5. Free. Spring Campfire, adults & families (ages 5+). 6:30-7:30. $10/$5. Pancake Brunch & Maple Sugaring Program, adults & families (ages 5+). $15/$10. Salamander Search, use flashlights to search for emerging spotted salamanders. Date TBA. Free, members only. 4th Annual Lost Brook Trail Race at TNC, 5 or 10 mile race. 9-11. Eggs Bunnydict, ages 4+ and adult. 2-4. $15/$10. Spring Break Camp, pre-K & K meets 9-12 or 12-3:30; grades 1-5 meets 9-3:30. Earth Day Trail Clean-Up, adult and teen volunteers needed (ages 14+). 10-12. Earth Day Wildflower Ramble, adults & ages 9+. 1-2:30. $5/Free. Arbor Day’s Terrific Trees, adults & families (ages 5+). 3-4. $10/$5. Birthday Birds, celebrate TNC’s Barred Owls and Red-Tailed Hawks. All ages. 12:30-1:30. $10/$5. Frogs! Hop to It for Earth Day, ages 5+ with adult. 2-4. $10/$5.

Union County Trailside Nature and Science Center Watchung Reservation, Coles Ave. & New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3670. Visitor Center: Daily 12-5pm. Free. Located within the 2000-acre Watchung Reservation with 13+ miles of marked trails, the Trailside Museum and Visitor Center offers many opportunities to explore nature. Museum features hands-on exhibits for young children and taxidermy exhibits of local wildlife. Live reptiles and fish live in ponds at the base of a 34-foot-tall beech tree inside the Visitor Center. Interactive exhibits explain local plants, geology, Lenape Native American history and conservation. Weekly nature and exploration programs for children include adult/child interactive programs for toddlers and ages 3-4, drop-off programs for ages 4-6, after-school

programs for grades 1-5, weekend family programs and summer day camps for preschoolers to grade 9. Scout badge and group programs; outreach programs; birthday parties; adult programs, too. Visit website for new programs and self-guided trail guides, www.ucnj.org/trailside. SepSaturday Outdoor Adventures, 45-min. weekly Jun themed hike and nature-related talks for families with children of all ages most Sat. during the school year. Sat & Story Time, entertaining stories of the season Sun 3pm Sat. and Sun. Donations appreciated. Ongoing Mastedon Exhibit, see remains of 6-ton creatures from 25,000+ years ago that were discovered in Lenape Park in Cranford. Selected Special Family Events Pre-registration required. Fees are listed first for out-ofcounty then in-county. JanWorkshops –Toddler Time, Two of Us, Small Fry mid Jun Days, Afterschool Explorations, Trailside Explorers, Family Outdoor Adventure Saturday Programs (no registration required), Adult Workshops & Lectures, visit website for dates. Feb-Mar Saturday & Sunday Story Time, 3pm, lower level of the Visitor Center. Feb 8 Summer Camp Lottery, begins, 12-5 daily for Union County residents. Feb 13- February Festivities, special programs for adults, Feb 17 families and children. Pre-registration required. Visit website for schedule. Feb 15, The Journey of Sap to Syrup, see how real Feb 17 maple syrup is made. 1:30-2:30 Feb. 15; 3-4pm Feb. 17. $5/$6 out-of-county. Mar 1 Summer Camp Registration, begins for Union County residents. Registration for out-of-county residents begins 12-4:45 March 4. Apr 27 Wild Earth Fest, celebrate the Earth with wild animal demonstrations, education displays, music, eco-art, activities for all ages. 11-5. $4, under 6 free.

Wagner Farm Arboretum 197 Mountain Ave., Warren, 908-350-7383. Former site of Wagner Dairy Farm is now a developing arboretum with diverse trees, shrubs, flowers and other plant life in a natural setting, walking trails, children’s garden and community garden. Art classes are offered for adults and children grades 1-8; seasonal special events; summer camp. Selected Special Events Dec 13- Holiday Boutique, local artists and artisans Dec 22 offer original items for sale. Proceeds support the Arboretum. Mon.-Thurs. 10-1, Fri.-Sat. 105, Sun. 11-4. JunFarmers Market, Thursdays 3-7pm.

Sep

Looking for more info?

MAKE kidsguidenj.com YOUR first stop! Convenient links to listing websites Find events, activities & services for the whole family Ticket giveaways on facebook, Kids Guide NJ

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS Here are some parks and playgrounds we’ve enjoyed. For photos and a mom’s commentary about many more, visit www.njplaygrounds.com. For Universal Parks & Playgrounds, see the Special Needs category.

Brookside Park Hetfield Ave., Scotch Plains. Baseball field, basketball court, preschool playground, picnic area, field house, roller hockey, pond with trail.

Colonial Park – Somerset County Park Off of Amwell Rd., Franklin. 651-acre park with picnic areas, softball, tennis center, putting course, paddle boats, gardens, and leash-free dog area. Playground features barrier-free equipment.

Columbia Park Plainfield Ave., Berkeley Heights. Ballfields, basketball courts, shuffleboard court, ice rink, practice handball-tennis board, 6 tennis courts, skate park. Children’s playground and separate toddler playground. Picnic tables.

Community Playground of Montville 130 Changebridge Rd., Montville, 973-331-3305. Large fenced, farm-themed playground with separate play areas, six athletic fields, bocce courts, horseshoe pits, basketball courts, picnic pavilion with barbecue grills, community garden plots and restrooms available.

Dorbrook Recreation Area Sprayground Monmouth County Park 209 Rt. 537E (GSP exit 109), Colts Neck, 732-460-1167 ext. 22. Open from 11am Mon.-Fri. and 10am weekends and holidays mid-May-early Sept. Closes 7:30pm May-July and 7pm Aug.Sept. Large fenced water playground, umbrellas provide shaded seating. Camps and groups serving individuals with disabilities can visit 9-11am with reservations.

Duke Island Park – Somerset County Park Old York Rd., Bridgewater. 339-acre park along the North Branch of the Raritan River features picnic areas, prime fishing, softball, bandshell, walking trails, and visitor center. Playground features barrier free equipment.

Echo Lake Park – Union County Park Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-527-4900. Playground, picnic area, large field provides space for soccer and softball, fitness trail, fishing, seasonal paddleboat rentals, paved walkway along the linear lake, fenced in Dog Park and amphitheater, site of summer concert series.

Esposito Park – Union County Park 659 Madison Hill Rd., Clark, 908-527-4900. 13-acre space includes large playground on soft surface, skate park, walking path, fitness stations, two tennis courts, softball/soccer field, shady picnic areas, park benches and restrooms.

Hedden County Park Reservoir Rd., Dover, Randolph & Mine Hill, 973-829-8257. Six-acre lake, ballfields, hiking and biking trails, picnic sites and shelter, Indian Falls and playground.

Holmdel Park – Monmouth County Park 44 Longstreet Rd. (GSP exit 114), Holmdel, 732-946-9562. 565-acre site features two playgrounds, 10 miles of trails

including a half-mile paved loop, picnic areas, fishing pond, cross country course, four tennis courts, arboretum and Historic Longstreet Farm (see listing under Historic Sites).

KidStreet Claude Dr. at Garretson Rd. & Commons Way, Bridgewater. Large wooden play and climbing structure.

Kip’s Castle Park – Essex County Park 22 Crestmont Rd., Montclair, 973-268-3500. Estate grounds open dawn to dusk. April-Oct.: Castle open for first floor selfguided tours Mon.-Thurs. 12-4. The former estate of Frederic Ellsworth Kip is Essex County’s newest park encompassing a 9,000 square foot mansion that replicates a medieval Norman castle and 11 acres on the ridge of First Mountain with spectacular views of New York City. The park will become the County’s premiere cultural resource center as county offices, public meeting space, museum space and educational programs are developed.

Lewis Morris Park – Morris County Park Rt. 24 West, Mendham, Morris and Harding Twp., 973326-7600. Daily 8am-dusk. 1,154 acres, adjacent to Jockey Hollow. Saturn Kids Kingdom in Doe Meadow features a wood and plastic climbing structure with slides, rings, rope ladder on woodchip surface. Picnic areas nearby along with miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, parcourse fitness circuit, ballfields and Sunrise Lake.

Littell People’s Park Memorial Park, Wahler Rd., Livingston. Ramps, rings, ladders and slides on woodchip surface within fenced area; sandbox.

Loantaka Brook Reservation Morris Township, 973-326-7600. Dawn to dusk. Access trail from Loantaka Way, Kitchell Road, Green Village Road or South St. Five mile paved recreation/bicycle trail from Green Village Rd. in Chatham Township to Seaton Hackney Stables in Morristown. Duck pond at Kitchell Rd. with picnic areas, small playground, ballfields. Playground at South St., also with picnic area and ballfields.

Lurker Park East Hanover. Tot lot features handicapped-accessible swings and two jungle gyms, one for smaller children.

Lyndhurst Town Park 367 Valley Brook Ave., Lyndhurst, 201-804-2482. Spray park, swings, plastic playground structure on soft surface and site for summer “Music under the Stars” concert series.

Mabie Playground 26 Elm St., Summit, 908-277-2932. Preschool playground with mulch, basketball courts, bocce ball courts, horseshoe pits and game tables across from the train station, a short walk from downtown Summit.

Marquandt Park Parking lot on Lovers Lane (between Mercer Rd. & Rt. 206), Princeton. 17-acre park-arboretum features mostly paved walking trails through woodlands, forest glades and open park land. Playground, picnic area, ballfield and large sandpit with toys.

Meadowland Park N. Ridgewood Rd., South Orange, 973-378-7754. Large park with vast fields, tennis courts, platform tennis, playground, duck pond and the Baird Center housing the South Orange art gallery and recreation department. Site of summer outdoor jazz concerts and community events.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Memorial Field Ashland Ave., Summit. Climbing structure with slides, swings, benches, paved walks for bike riding and rollerblading, tennis courts and backboard, basketball, ballfields, kite flying, picnic tables.

Mindowaskin Park Downtown Westfield. Scenic park with walking/strolling trail around duck pond, playground and bandstand.

Nomahegan Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Union County Park Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-527-4900. Paved bike/jogging/walking path, fitness circuit, playground, ballfields, pond, picnic area and rest rooms.

North Branch Park â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Somerset County Park Milltown Rd., Bridgewater. 185-acre park along the North Branch of the Raritan River is home to the Somerset County Park Commission administrative offices. Picnic areas, prime fishing, large fields provide space for soccer, softball, flying model aircraft and launching model rockets. Playground features swings, slides, suspension bridge, bars and rings.

Ski Shawnee

Shawnee Sha wnee Mountain Mountain Ski Area

I-80 P PA A Exit 309 | 5 570-421-7231 70-421-7231 Visit www www.shawneemt.com .shawneemt.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS Pleasant Valley Park Valley Rd., Bernards Township. Large, pretty park features wood playground with open climbing structure, pond, picnic shelter, walking/bicycle trails, tennis and paddle tennis courts, fitness trail, athletic fields, amphitheater and community pool.

Ponderosa Farm Park – Union County Park 1600 Cooper Rd., Scotch Plains, 908-527-4900. 22-acre former farmland features plastic farm-themed playground on soft rubber surface, swings, spray fountains, walking trails, two athletic fields, shady picnic area and restrooms.

Riverside Park Valley Rd., Gillette, 908-647-8000. 24-acre site includes three tennis courts, basketball, bocci and horsesehoe courts, children’s playground designed for ages 2-5, two soccer/ lacrosse fields, walking paths, canoe launch and picnic grove at the Passaic River. Restrooms available.

Roxbury Imagination Station Horseshoe Lake, 78 Eyeland Ave., Succasunna. Fenced-in fortress of wood includes an ocean vessel, towering rocket ship, climbing nets, bridges, stairways and monkey bars and two rock-climbing walls appropriate for younger and older age groups. Separate preschool area includes a doll house, locomotive train slide, rocking horses, swings and four-seat seesaw. Tire swing, music elements, seating and picnic tables available. Also baseball, softball, soccer fields, volleyball courts, basketball courts and paved walkway around the lake.

Schooley’s Mountain Park Camp Washington Rd., Long Valley, 908-829-8257. Lake, ballfield, picnic areas, hiking trails, mountain biking and fishing.

Shunpike Park Shunpike Rd., Chatham Twp. Soccer, baseball fields and basketball court currently undergoing renovation. Castle climbing and play structure, swings, slide and rope climb.

Snyder Avenue Park Snyder Ave., Berkeley Heights. Lighted multi-purpose turf field, baseball fields, fenced playground features new equipment on soft, rubber surface and sprinkler play area.

Taylor Park Main St., Millburn. Fenced in playground, ballfields, walking/strolling trails, duck pond, tennis courts, teen center, basketball courts, site for summer concerts.

Tourne County Park 40 McCaffrey Ln. or Old Denville Rd., Boonton Twp. & Denville, 973-326-7600. 500 acre-park includes a bird sanctuary, wildflower trail, ballfield, family picnic areas, group picnic shelter, playground and trail system with picturesque overlook.

Van Saun Park 216 Forest Ave. (Rt. 4E to Forest Ave., turn right at exit), Paramus, 201-262-3771. Playground with multiple-age play areas, sprinkler, picnic areas, zoo, train ride and carousel. See listing for Bergen County Zoo.

Watchung Reservation – Union County Park The Loop, Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, 908527-4900. Play and climbing structure with slides, misting devices, soft-impact rubber surfacing and wheelchair-

accessible equipment. Open fields, picnic sites (with grills), trails nearby including a trail to Trailside Nature & Science Center and Museum.

White Oak Park Baird Rd., Branchburg, 908-526-1300. 127-acre park features soccer/lacrosse fields, baseball/softball fields, batting cages, tennis courts, practice wall, basektball court, sand volleyball courts, 1.5 mile walking/jogging path, nature trails, playgrounds, wooden tot lot, pavilion, picnic tables, campfire ring, pond, restrooms and concession stand.

DOWN THE SHORE See Historic Sites, Museums, Outdoors, Music & Dance and Theatre categories for more listings down the shore. From the boisterous boardwalks of Ocean City (ocean cityvacation.com), Wildwood (wildwoodsnj.com), Point Pleasant and Seaside (exit82.com) to the Victorian beauty of Cape May (capemaychamber.com) or natural beauty of Island Beach State Park (www.njparksand forests.org) and Long Beach Island (visitlbiregion.com), you’ll be sure to find a favorite beach down the shore to suit your interests and needs. While all seaside communities offer public beach access, finding parking is often the biggest obstacle. For a current list of public beaches and amenities, visit the New Jersey tourism website, order or download the state’s annual travel guide at www.visitnj.org or visit the websites of the shore counties below. Monmouth County: www.tourism.visitmonmouth.com Ocean County www.oceancountytourism.com Cape May County www.thejerseycape.com Atlantic City Region www.atlanticcitynj.com

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park GSP exit 63, at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, Barnegat Light, 609-494-2016. Nov.-Mar.: daily 8-4. Lighthouse: weekends 9-3:30, weather permitting. Memorial Day-Labor Day: Lighthouse open daily 10-4:30. Adults $3, ages 6-11 $1, under 5 free. Originally lit in 1859, Barnegat Lighthouse, affectionately known as Old Barney, guided vessels along New Jersey’s coastline at a crucial “change of course” point. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Island Beach, Barnegat Bay and Long Beach Island (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult). An interpretive center showcases the history of the lighthouse and the changing coastal environment and a short 1/5-mile loop trail leads through one of the last remnants of maritime forest in New Jersey. The park is an excellent area to observe migrating birds in spring and fall and wintering waterfowl in winter. Picnic tables; saltwater fishing; sunbathing. Friends of Barnegat Lighthouse sponsors lectures and special events. May, Oct Best times to view migrating waterfowl.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Great Creek Rd. (off Rt. 9), Oceanville, 609-652-1665. Visitor Information Center features changing wildlife displays: Open weekdays 10-3, weekends 9-4. Wildlife Drive and trails are open seven days sunrise to sunset (check website for periodic closings). $4 entrance fee supports refuge operations. 46,000 acres of coastal area in southern New Jersey is actively protected and managed for migratory birds. The refuge's location in one of the Atlantic Flyway's most active flight paths makes it an important link in the vast network of national wildlife refuges administered nationwide by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. An eight-mile auto trail and nature trails lead visitors through tidal salt marsh, field and woodland habitats visited by more than 275 species of migratory land and water birds. Adult and family bird walks; Nature Discovery Area for children; Junior Refuge Manager, school and scout programs. Oct, May Peak of fall and spring migrations. Bird walks and birding workshops are scheduled. Ongoing Junior Refuge Manager, workbooks for ages 47 and 8+ are available online or at the Visitor Center. Receive a badge upon completion. Nature Backpacks can be borrowed from the Visitor Center. New 12-Passenger Solar Electric Tram, guided tours are offered seasonally on Saturdays. Tours leave from the Visitor Center, 800 Great Creek Rd., Galloway. Fri-Sat Bird Walks, Tram Tours, Nature Activities for adults & families. Check website for schedule.

Gateway National Recreation Area Sandy Hook (GSP Exit 117), 732-872-5970. Park: Daily sunrise to sunset. Lifeguards on duty 10-6 daily Memorial DayLabor Day. Beach parking fee 7am-4pm Memorial DayLabor Day: $15. Spermaceti Cove Visitor Center: open daily 9-5 (currently closed due to damage from Hurricane Sandy). Sandy Hook LIghthouse Keeper’s Quarters: open daily 9-5. Tours are first come, first served, 1-4:30. History House, a restored 1898 lieutenant’s residence on “Officers Row:” Weekends 1-5pm. Fort Hancock Museum: closed for renovations. Note: When parking areas are full, the park closes until parking becomes available. To avoid delays on weekends, arrive before 10 or after 3. www.nps.gov/gate 61⁄2-mile-long barrier peninsula with ocean beach on one side and Sandy Hook Bay on the other, features salt marshes, dunes, hiking trails, migratory shore birds habitat and historic Fort Hancock, established in 1895 as part of the defenses for New York harbor. Seagull’s Nest open deck restaurant at Beach Area D is currently closed due to hurricane damage. Lifeguards are on duty at five ocean beaches from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Overnight camping is available at twenty primitive tent campsites across from the Horseshoe Cove section. Reserve online at www.recreation.gov. Ranger programs include nature and history walks, summer canoe cruise, Nike Missile radar site and gun battery tours. Marine science summer camps, environmental education programs for all ages, family, school and teacher workshops are offered by NJ Sea Grant Consortium in Fort Hancock Bldg. 22 (732-872-1300 ext. 30; www.njsea grant.org); and the American Littoral Society (732-2910055; www.littoralsociety.org).

New

Ongoing

Podcasts for Sandy Hook and other National Parks of New York Harbor are available at www.nps.gov/gate, under the “Photos and Multimedia” link. Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the U.S.’s oldest operating lighthouse (1764), is restored and open to the public weekends 1-4:30pm; daily 9-5 June-Oct. 30. Children must be 48 in. tall to climb tower. Sign up in the Keeper’s Quarters for lighthouse tours, 1-4:30. Reserve tours for scouts and groups in advance, 732-872-5970.

Multi-Use Pathway, shared by bicyclists, skaters and pedestrians, extends 5 miles north from the park entrance to Fort Hancock. Ray’s Bike Rentals offers rental options for all ages, open weekends at Fort Hancock (732-754-5731). For program, facility and concession updates, visit the Gateway National Recreation Area’s facebook page accessible through www.nps.gov/gate. Selected Special Events Free, some request a call to reserve, 732-872-5970, unless noted. Dec 15 Children’s Christmas Crafts Workshop, 1-2:30, Lighthouse Keepers Quarters. Dec 21 Christmas Holly Walk, 2-3:30, Parking Lot E. Jan 1 New Year’s Day Beach Walk, 11-3, Building 18, Fort Hancock. For info, 732-291-0055. Jan 26 Winter Twilight Exploration, 4-6, Lighthouse Keepers Quarters. Bring your own flashlight. Feb 2 Holly Forest Walk, 2-3:30, Visitor Center. Feb 8 Monmouth County Audubon Society Waterfowl Everywhere, 10-12, Parking Lot B. Feb 9 Searching for Seals in the Surf, 2-4, Lighthouse Keepers Quarters. Reservations required. Feb 15 Winter Night Prowl, 6-7:30, Parking Lot E. Feb 22 Winter Seal & Waterfowl Walk, 10-12, Building 18, Fort Hancock. Bring your bincoulars. $5. Call American Littoral Society to reserve, 732291-0055. Feb View harbor seals on Skeleton Hill Island during their annual migration. Call Visitor Center for updates. Families Investigate Science Hands-On Programs Building 22, Fort Hancock, 732-872-1300 ext. 30 or 19. New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium offers 3-hr. hands-on marinethemed workshops for families (FISH) during spring, summer and fall; summer camp; and scout programs. Consult website for current schedule, registration information and fees. www.njseagrant.org. AprFISH, hands-on family workshops.

Oct Jul & Aug

Marine Sciences Day Camp, one week sessions of outdoor exploration and laboratory investigations for grades 3-8. American Littoral Society Mid-Atlantic chapter is headquartered on Sandy Hook, 732291-0055, www.littoralsociety.org. Organization founded by scientists, naturalists and divers focuses on coastal education, advocacy and conservation activities. Hosts school outreach programs; group programs on the beach; speakers and slide shows; local, national and international field trips.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors DOWN THE SHORE Historic Cold Spring Village 720 Rt. 9 South, Cape May, 609-898-2300. See complete listing under Historic Sites.

Island Beach State Park Rt. 35, Seaside Park (GSP exit 82), 732-793-0506. Interpretive Programs, 732-793-1698. Parking fee thru Labor Day: weekdays $6, weekends $10. After Labor Day: $5. Beautiful wide beaches, dunes, fishing, nature center, and 16 miles of trails including paved bicycle path, nature trails and canoe/kayak trail in Barnegat Bay. Horseback riding by reservation only Oct. 1-Apr. 30. Kayak rentals available through private concessionaire. On hot, sunny, summer weekends, it’s best to arrive before 9am or after 1pm to avoid park closure. Surf chairs available for disabled. Aeolium (house of the wind) nature center, about 1.5 miles from entrance gate, features exhibits about barrier islands and their habitats and short nature trail. Discovery Trails of Island Beach State Park brochure lists self-guided nature trails. Interpretive center at the Historic Forked River Coast Guard Station #112 is open Fri.-Sun. 8-4. A guide to the park can be found online at friendsofislandbeach.com. Jun-Aug Visit website for summer interpretive programs.

Marine Mammal Stranding Center 3625 Brigantine Blvd., Brigantine, 609-266-0538. Open Sat. 10-2, closed Sun. Hours change seasonally; call before you visit. Donation. Organization rescues, rehabilitates and releases stranded or otherwise distressed marine mammals and sea turtles. Sea Life Education Center features 25 lifesize replicas of marine mammals and fish, educational exhibits and gift shop. Outreach programs; group tours; internships; summer camp. Jun-Aug Seining, beach activities, marsh walks and children’s camps. View schedule online at www.marinemammalstrandingcenter.org, under “Education.”

The Noyes Museum of Art Lily Lake Rd. (GSP exit 48), Oceanville, 609-652-8848. Summer: Mon.-Sat. 10-4:30, Thurs. until 8, Sun. 12-5. Adults $5, students/srs. $4, 6 & under free. The only fine arts museum in southern New Jersey features American art, especially folk art and crafts and a massive collection of working decoys. Adjacent to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Group tours and workshops; summer camps; outreach programs available.

Seven President’s Oceanfront Park Ocean Ave. (GSP exit 105, Hwy. 36E), Long Branch, 732229-0924. Monmouth County Park System: 732-842-4000; Activity Line: 732-460-1167. Daily 8am to dusk. Admission and parking fee charged Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day weekend. Expansive beach, 2 playgrounds, snack pavilion, jetty fishing, boat ramp, volleyball, skateplex, restrooms and showers. Surf chair for persons with disabilities available at pavilion. Lifeguards on duty 10-5 daily mid-June through Labor Day. Jan 26 Seashore Open House, hands-on activities, aquatic animals, crafts. 1-4, Activity Center. Free.

Tuckerton Seaport 120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. See listing under Historic Sites.

Wetlands Institute 1075 Stone Harbor Blvd. (GSP exit 10), Stone Harbor, 609-3681211. Oct. 15-May 2: Fri.-Sun. 9:30-4:30. May 3-Oct. 13: Mon.Sun. 9:30-4:30. Mid-June-Labor Day: Special evening hours Tues.-Thurs. until 8pm. Adults $8, ages 3-12 $6. 6,000 acres of coastal wetlands are a living laboratory for education and research with salt marsh trail, observation tower, exhibits and museum shop. Open in winter for self-guided tours. In summer, daily events may include wetlands and wildlife workshops, children’s nature programs, family programs, guided walks, kayaking and back bay boat cruises. Birthday parties; scout, homeschool, outreach programs; internships. Ongoing Official New Jersey site for Junior Duck Stamp entries & judging, for K-12 students. Environmental Education for Homeschool Students, 90-min. interactive program meets monthly for students ages 5-15. Family Activities, seasonal science activities 104, aquarium feeding 11-12, creature feature & craft 2-3:30, Fri.-Sun. Jun-Sep Salt Marsh Safaris, back bay boat cruises, dune and beach walks, kayak trips, seining, fishing or other activities are scheduled daily. Selected Special Events Mar 29 Turtle Fest, pancake breakfast, games, arts & crafts, live turtles. Seatings at 9, 10, 10:45 & 11:30. Adults $10, children $8, family $30.

WINTER SPORTS

discount lift tickets In cooperation with the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association, discount lift tickets to many ski facilities are available through Recreation Departments and County Park Commissions. Visit discountlifttickets.net to browse by state and learn about lift ticket discounts offered by many ski areas. Visit liftopia.com to purchase discount lift tickets online in advance for participating ski areas. If you are travelling north on I-87 to ski, Potter Brothers Ski & Snowboard Shops offer discount lift tickets to ski areas in New York, Massachusetts and Vermont. www.potterbrothers.com

hunterdon county parks & recreation www.co.hunterdon.nj.us, “Parks & Recreation” Conditions: 908-782-1158

monmouth county park system Conditions: www.monmouthcountyparks.com For cross country ski and snowshoe rentals and winter activity info, call 732-842-4000 ext. 4312.

morris county park commission Snow & ice conditions: 973-326-7632. Please note: Sledding, skating, and cross-country skiing are not permitted at county golf courses.

somerset county park commission Winter activity hotline: 908-722-1200, ext. 7.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

union county department of parks and community renewal Snow & ice conditions: 908-558-4079. Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal, 908-527-4900. Warinanco Skating Center recording: 908-298-7850.

CROSS COUNTRY SKI/SNOWSHOEING

Essex County Parks • South Mountain Reservation, Brookside Dr., West Orange Millburn, 973-857-8530.

Fairview Lake Cross Country Ski Center 1035 Fairview Lake Rd. (Rt. 80W exit 25), Newton, 973-3839282. Twelve miles of marked, groomed trails, ski lodge, equipment rental, instruction, new skier’s package and group rates available.

High Point Cross Country Ski Center 1480 Rt. 23, Sussex County, 973-702-1222. State Park: 973875-4800. Dec. 1-April 1: Mon.-Fri. 9-4, Sat. & Sun. 8-4. Weather cam on website, www.xcskihighpoint.com. Cross country ski center features 15 km of groomed trails, 6.5 km with snowmaking equipment, 8 km snowshoeing trail, kids trail, and handicapped trail. Lodge with fireplace, food and beverage. Ice skating on Lake Marcia. Lessons; guided tours; equipment sales and rentals available including baby back carriers. Sat & Group lessons at 10, 12 & 2pm. Private lessons Sun at 11 & 1pm. Call for weekday instruction. Nordic Kids xc ski program for 12 yrs. and under. Jan 11 Winter Trails, bring the whole family to discover snowshowing. Registration required (inside lodge). Free demo snowshoes for children and adults, naturalist guided snowshoe hikes at 11 & 1, outdoor gear displays, clinics, giveaways, rentals available for full day. 9-3. www.wintertrails.org

Hunterdon County Parks • Deer Path Park, W. Woodschurch Rd., Readington Twp., 908-782-1158. • Echo Hill Park, Lilac Dr., Clinton Twp., 908-788-1484. • Hunterdon County Arboretum, 1020 Rt. 31N, Clinton Twp., 908-788-1484. • Point Mountain Park, Musconetcong & Point Mountain Rds., Lebanon Twp., 908-788-1484. • Teetertown Park, Hollow Brook & Pleasant Grove Rd., Lebanon Twp., 908-788-1484.

Hunterdon County Area • Spruce Run Recreation Area, Rt. 31N on Van Syckels Rd., Clinton, 908-638-8572. • Voorhees State Park, Rt. 513, Lebanon Twp.

Mercer County Area • Washington Crossing State Park, 355 Washington CrossingPennington Rd., Titusville, 609-737-0623.

Monmouth County Parks • Charleston Springs Golf Course, 101 Woodville Rd., Millstone, 732-409-7227. Groomed trails. • Clayton Park, 161 Emley’s Hill Rd., Upper Freehold, 609259-5794.

• Hartshorne Woods, 300 Navesink Ave., Locust, 732872-0336. • Holmdel Park, 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel, 732-946-9562. • Huber Woods Park, 25 Brown’s Dock Rd., Locust, 732-8722670. • Shark River Park, 1101 Schoolhouse Rd., Wall, 732922-3868. • Tatum Park, 151 Red Hill Rd., Middletown, 732-671-6050. • Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732842-4000, ext. 4312. Groomed trails; cross-country ski and snowshoe equipment rentals available when snow conditions are favorable. • Turkey Swamp Park, 200 Georgia Rd., Freehold, 732462-7286.

Morris County Parks • Bamboo Brook Outdoor Education Center/Willowwood Arboretum, 170 Longview Rd., Chester Twp., 973326-7632. • Central Park of Morris County, Central Ave., Morris Plains, www.morrisparks.net • Columbia Trail, Rt. 24, Schooley’s Mountain Rd., Washington Twp., 973-326-7600. • Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 353 East Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 973-326-7632. • Heddon County Park, 124 Reservoir Ave. & Concord Rd., Dover, Mine Hill, Randolph Twp., 973-326-7632. • Kay Environmental Center, 200 Pottersville Rd., Chester Twp., 973-326-7632. • Lewis Morris Park, Rt. 24, Morris Twp., 973-326-7632. Warming area. • Loantaka Brook Reservation, Morris, Harding & Chatham Twps., 973-326-7632. Warming area at Kitchell Rd. • Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Weldon Rd., Jefferson Twp., Ogden Railroad Trail, 973-326-7632. • Patriots Path, Inamere Rd. & Lake Valley Rd., Morris Twp. • Schooley’s Mountain Park, Springtown Rd., Washington Twp., 973-326-7632. Warming area. • Silas Condict Park, 100 Kinnelon Rd., Kinnelon Borough. • Tourne Park, McCaffrey Ln. or Old Denville Rd., Boonton, Denville Twp. & Mountain Lakes, 973-326-7632. • Traction Line Recreation Trail, Morris Ave. & Rt. 287, Morristown & Morris Twp., 973-326-7632. • Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Rd., Chester, 973326-7632.

Morris County Area • Buttermilk Falls, Calais Rd./Combs Hollow Rd., Mendham Twp., 973-543-4555. • Jockey Hollow National Park, Morristown. Steeper terrain can be found here.

Somerset County Parks • Green Knoll Golf Course, Garretson Rd., Bridgewater, 908722-1301. • Quail Brook Golf Course, New Brunswick Rd., Franklin Twp., 732-560-9528. • Somerset County Environmental Education Center, Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489. Five miles of relatively flat trails are open from 9am-5pm when conditions permit (more than 4 inches of snow on the trails). Staff members set tracks in fresh snow, bring your own equipment. • Spooky Brook Golf Course, Elizabeth Ave., Franklin Twp. • Warrenbrook Golf Course, Warren Twp.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors CROSS COUNTRY SKI/SNOWSHOEING

Feb 3-7

Somerset County Area • Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, 643 Canal Rd., Somerset, 908-873-3050.

Union County Parks • Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains and Oak Ridge Golf Course in Clark, 908-527-4900. • Passaic River Park, River Rd., Long Hill & Chatham Twps., 973326-7632. • Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, 908-789-3670.

DOWNHILL SKIING/SNOWBOARDING

Feb 23 Mar 8Mar 9 Mar 16

Take Your Daughter/Son to the Snow Week, ages 18 & under receive a free lift ticket when parent purchases a full price adult ticket. Coupon required from “Discounts” webpage. Shawnee Winter Carnival Day. 24th Annual Pocono Scout Weekend, discounts for all scouts. Free merit badge testing and Scout race. 31st Annual Costume Carnival Day, those in full costume receive free day lift ticket.

Smugglers’ Notch Vermont 1-800-451-8752. Three mountains, resort village lodging, award-winning children’s programs and off-mountain activities for the whole family. www.smuggs.com

Belleayre Mountain

Tuxedo Ridge Ski Center

Exit 19 NYS Thruway, Rt. 28, Highmount, NY 1-800-9426904. Skiing, terrain park, free cross-country trails, nursery.

At Sterling Forest, 581 Rt. 17A, Tuxedo, NY, 845-351-1122. Open mid-Dec.-mid March for skiing, boarding and tubing. Four double chairlifts service 40 acres of terrain; terrain park; ski & snowboard school; rentals. www.tuxedoridge.com

Blue Mountain Ski Area Rt. 80 exit 304, 209S, Blue Mountain Dr., Palmerton, 610826-7700. Skiing, boarding, tubing, babysitting.

Camelback Exit 45 I-80, Tannersville, PA, 800-233-8100. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing.

Campgaw Mountain Ski Area 200 Campgaw Rd., Mahwah, 201-327-7800. Skiing, tubing.

Windham Mountain 33 Clarence D Lane Rd., Windham, NY, 800-754-9463. Skiing and snowboarding; night skiing and riding Fri.-Sun.; snow tubing Fri.-Sun. and holidays.

ICE FISHING

Hunter Mountain Resort

Monmouth County Parks

PO Box 295, Hunter, NY, 800-HunterMtn.

Only when signs are posted. For information, 732-842-4000 ext. 4312. • Manasquan Reservoir, 311 Windeler Rd., Howell, 732919-0996. • Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732842-4000, ext. 4312. • Turkey Swamp Park, 200 Georgia Rd., Freehold, 732462-7286.

Jack Frost Big Boulder 1 Jack Frost Mountain Rd., Blakeslee, PA, 570-443-8425. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing.

Mountain Creek 200 Rt. 94, Vernon, 973-827-2000. New Jersey’s winter playground offers tons of great things to do both on and off the snow. Just 47 miles from New York City, Mountain Creek boasts best-in-class skiing, snowboarding, tubing, zip lining and kids learning programs from Dec. through March. www.mountaincreek.com

Mount Peter 40 Ski Lane, Warwick, NY, 845-986-4940. Skiing, boarding.

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area I-80, Exit 309, Shawnee-on-Delaware, PA, 570-421-7231. Ski report: 800-233-4218. info@shawneemt.com. The Poconos’ favorite ski resort features 23 trails, 9 chairlifts including new high speed quad lift, Learning Center, 2 terrain parks, snow tubing park, snowmaking system on 100% of the trails, night skiing every night and 4 children’s skiing programs designed especially for their ages and abilities. Half-day sessions for all programs cost $90 daily. Guests skiing at Shawnee for several days can opt for multi-day programpackages, with a three-session package for $225 and a five-session package for $375. Helmet rentals for Children’s Program participants are $8 per day. Reservations are required for all children’s programs. www.shawneemt.com Jan 2 “Learn A Snow Sport” Day, 100 introductory learn to ski packages (beginer lift, lesson and rental) for $20. All proceeds donated to Bushkill Outreach. Reservations required, x210. Jan 5 Girl Scout Day, discounts for all girl scouts. Feb 8 Race Against Cancer, giant slalom race open to all skiers and snowboarders. x254.

O U T D O O R I C E S K AT I N G

Essex County Area Livingston Littell’s Pond, Memorial Park, with 3 1⁄ 2 inches of ice. 973-535-7925 for current skating conditions. No skating sign posted. When open, Mon.-Fri. 3-5, Sat. 11-5, Sun. 12-5. Maplewood Memorial Park, 124 Dunnell Rd., Maplewood, 973-763-4202. Area flooded after Dec. 1; skating allowed when weather conditions permit. Call Rec Dept. for information. Millburn Taylor Park, Main St., 973-564-7097.

Monmouth County Park System 732-842-4000 ext. 4312. When conditions are right and ice is at least five inches thick, look for “Skating Today” signs posted at the park. When ice is safe, skating hours at most parks are Sun.-Thurs. 8am-7pm and Fri.-Sat. 8am-9pm. • Holmdel Park, 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel, 732-946-9562. • Shark River Park, 1101 Schoolhouse Rd., Wall, 732922-3868. • Turkey Swamp Park, 200 Georgia Rd., Freehold, 732462-7286.

Morris County Park Commission 973-326-7632, check with park police for safe conditions. Call 973-326-7600 for a brochure on winter park activities.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

• Central Park of Morris County, 91 Central Ave., Morris Plains. • Hedden Pond, Hedden County Park, Randolph. Night skating available. • Saffin Pond, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Jefferson Twp., ice fishing in designated area, warming area. • George Lake at Schooley’s Mountain Park, Springtown Rd., Washington Twp. Warming area, night skating. • Sunrise Lake at Lewis Morris Park, Rt. 24, Morris Twp. Warming area, ice fishing, night skating available.

Morris County Area Chatham Township Nash Field, 20 Southern Blvd., Chatham. 2 natural ice rinks, fieldhouse, lights. Call 973-635-3201 for conditions. www.chathamtownship.org/recreation_main.html Chester Rt. 24, Chester. Green skating sign is posted when ice is safe. Florham Park Emmet Park, 111 Ridgedale Ave. Lights. Hanover Lurker Park, 973-428-3090 for ice conditions. Separate skating and ice hockey hours, lights. Long Hill Township Safe ice signs posted at Stirling Lake, Chestnut & Maple Sts., Stirling, 908-647-0070. Madison Memorial Park, Rosedale Ave., Madison, 973-593-3097 for rink info. 4" ice needed; flag is flown when conditions prevail. Hockey rink, lights. Mendham Township Brookside Beach, West Main St., 973-543-4555. Randolph Township Red flag or no flag means no skating; green flag means it is safe to skate, 973-989-7085. • Brundage Park, Carrell Rd. • Heistein Park, Doby Rd.

Somerset County Park Commission 908-722-1914, ext. 351. Open 10am-4pm. • Colonial Park, off Mettlers Rd., Franklin Twp. • Duke Island Park, Old York Rd., Bridgewater.

Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal Signs announcing the suitability of any natural area for skating are posted based upon ice thickness and other safety concerns. Unless signs are posted, skating in that area is strictly prohibited. Call Union County hotline at 908558-4079; County Police at 908-654-9800; or the Department of Parks & Community Renewal, 908-527-4900, to verify current open locations and conditions . Lighted lake areas include Warinanco Park Lake in Roselle; Meisel Avenue Lake in Springfield; Rahway River Park Lake in Rahway; and Briant Park Lake in Summit. Non-lighted skating areas are: Warinanco Park Lagoon in Roselle; Black Brook Park Lake in Kenilworth; Nomahegan Park Lake in Cranford and Milton Lake Park in Rahway. See listing under Sports–Skating for Warinanco Center.

Union County Area Berkeley Heights Columbia Park tennis courts, 908-464-0550. Skating conditions: 464-5032. Regular skating every day, ice hockey is scheduled at special hours for informal game play. Fanwood LaGrande Park. Lighted rink, shed with stove. Mountainside 908-232-0015. Echo Brook tennis courts at Borough Hall. Lighted, warming fire on Fri. nights, Sat. & Sun. when supervisor is on duty. Ice hockey is not allowed. Children under 10 must have an adult present when skating. New Providence Oakwood Park. Lights. Call code-a-phone, 908-464-0600, for conditions. Summit Open weekdays 1-9pm, weekends 9am-10pm, weather permitting. • Summit Municipal Golf Course pond, 189 River Rd. at Rt. 24, Summit. Lighted. • Memorial Field, Ashland Ave., Summit. Ice skating on tennis court, lighted. Westfield Mindowaskin Park. For skating conditions, 908-232-8041.

Somerset County Area

SLEDDING

Bernards Township Ice is safe when green flag is posted. No skating when red flag is posted. Night skating at Southard Park only. • Southard Park, North Maple Ave., Basking Ridge. • B&B Little League field, Valley Rd., Basking Ridge.

The following locations have designated sledding “at

Bernardsville Call Bernardsville Recreation for information, 908766-2546. Peapack-Gladstone Municipal pond at Liberty Park, Main St., Peapack. Lights. 908234-2250. Watchung Watchung Lake. Lights. Call Public Works for ice conditions, 908-753-6115, or look for flags on weekends. Warren Township Behind the police station on Mountain Boulevard. Public Works, 908-753-1223. Lighted, hockey & figure skating.

your own risk.” Please use caution.

Essex County Area Millburn South Mountain Reservation, Brookside Dr., West Orange/ Millburn, 973-857-8530.

Hunterdon County Area Clinton Township Round Valley Recreation Area, Rt. 22E, Annandale, 908236-6355.

Monmouth County Park System Holmdel Park, 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel, 732-946-9562. Supervised sledding area is open when there is two or more inches of snow cover. Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 8am-7pm and Fri.Sat. 8am-9pm. Call for conditions.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

outdoors SLEDDING

Morris County Park Commission 973-326-7632. Check with park police for safe ice conditions. Open 9am-dusk. • Lewis Morris Park, Rt. 24, Mendham Twp. Sledding permitted on trails from Mendham Overlook to Doe Meadow ballfield. • Schooley’s Mountain Park, 91 E. Springtown Rd., Washington Twp. Park in main parking lot, trails are clearly marked. • Tourne County Park, Old Denville Rd., Boonton Twp.

Mountainside 908-527-4900. The flag pole area in Echo Lake Park is the only sanctioned site for sledding in Union County Parks. Please note: Toboggans, bobsleds and other non-steerable devices are strongly discouraged at any time. Scotch Plains Scotch Hills Golf Course, Scotch Plains, 908-322-6700. Sledding “at your own risk.” Please keep away from greens. Springfield Meisel Ave., detention basis area.

Morris County Area

Summit Briant Park

Chester Area • Grove St. Park, off Main St. 908-879-5361. • Chubb Park, Rt. 24, Chester Twp., 908-879-5100.

Westfield Behind Tamaques School.

Long Hill Township • Central School, Central Ave., Stirling • Gillette School, Valley Rd., Gillette

TUBING

Blue Mountain Ski Area

Long Valley Hacklebarney State Park, Hacklebarney Rd., Long Valley. Posted areas open 8am-4:30pm, 908-879-5677.

Rt. 80 exit 304, 209S, Blue Mountain Dr., Palmerton, 610-8267700.

Morristown Jockey Hollow, Morristown, 973-543-4030. Designated areas for sledding. Stop at Visitors Center at Tempe Wick Rd. for trail map. Park open 8am-5pm.

Exit 45 I-80, Tannersville, PA, 800-233-8100.

Randolph Township • County College of Morris, Dover-Chester Rd., Randolph Twp. • Brundage Park, Carrell Rd.

Somerset County Area Warren Township • Central School, Mt. Bethel Rd. • Warren Twp., Municipal Bldg., Mountain Blvd. • Watchung Hills Regional High School, Old Stirling Rd. Watchung • Bayberry School, Bayberry Lane. • Phillips Field, Brookdale d. • Valley View School, Valley Rd.

Camelback Campgaw Mountain Ski Area 200 Campgaw Rd., Mahwah, 201-327-7800.

Jack Frost Big Boulder 1 Jack Frost Mountain Rd., Blakeslee, PA, 570-443-8425.

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area

Union County Area

I-80, Exit 309, Shawnee-on-Delaware, PA, 570-421-7231. Ski report: 800-233-4218. info@shawneemt.com. Snow tubing park, snowmaking system on 100% of the trails, night skiing until 10pm. www.shawneemt.com

Cranford • Lenape Park, areas away from the waterway, 908-527-4900.

At Sterling Forest, 581 Rt. 17A, Tuxedo, NY, 845-351-1122.

Garwood Unami Park, 908-527-4900.

Tuxedo Ridge Ski Center Windham Mountain 33 Clarence D Lane Rd., Windham, NY, 800-754-9463.

There is only one Kids’ Guide for reaching children and families. Don’t miss the opportunity to be included in the the Summer/Fall print and online Kids Guide The Kids’ Guide ensures: • Continuous, long-term exposure for your message • Free listing under your business category • Free link and listing on kidsguidenj.com • Free distribution to a targeted, local family market • One low rate for one ad for six months Call or email for information: 908.665.0607 • email: kids@kidsguidenj.com

1994~2014 Celebrating Our 20th Year

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

ZOOS See Going Places listings for information about the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo and The Maryland Zoo at Baltimore. Bergen County Zoo Van Saun Park, 216 Forest Ave. (Rt. 4E to Forest Ave.), Paramus, 201-262-3771. 10-4:30 year-round. Train, carousel and pony rides: April-Oct. Admission charged May-Oct.: Adults $8, ages 3-14 $5, srs. $2, free under 3, discounts for County residents. Exhibits include North American Wetlands Aviary, spider monkeys, farmyard. Train ride around zoo, pony rides, carousel, toddler and older children playgrounds and picnic areas. In-zoo programs for infants to adults; outreach programs; zoo camp, jr. zookeeper, and zoo camp for children with special needs offered in summer. Deadline for summer zoo camp applications in March. Dec 27- Winter Open House, all ages. 11-3, Education/ Dec 28 Discover Lab. Spring Sheep Shearing, shearing, spinning wool and weaving demonstrations. Call for new date. Apr Party for the Planet, annual Earth Day celebration. Free, call for date. Jul-Aug Live animal shows, daily in the outdoor amphitheater.

Cape May County Park & Zoo Rt. 9 & Crest Haven Rd. (GSP exit 11), Cape May Court House, 609-465-5271. Open daily year ’round except Christmas. Park: 9-dusk. Zoo: 10-3:45 (4:45 summer). Free, donations appreciated. 200 species of animals, an amphibian and reptile house, aviary and African savannah are found within a 128-acre county park which features a playground, picnic facilities, nature and bike trails.

Popcorn Park Zoo Humane Way at Lacey Road (Garden State Parkway exit 74), Forked River, 609-693-1900. Daily 11-5pm. Adults $5, children & seniors $4, under 3 free. The Associated Humane Societies established these 10 acres in the Pine Barrens to serve as a refuge for wildlife, exotic and farm animals that were elderly, sick, abandoned, abused or injured and could no longer survive in the wild. Deer Woods, wild animal compounds, monkey house, horse and pony corral, farm; able to feed free-roaming animals. Picnic area.

Space Farms Zoo & Museum 218 Rt. 519, Sussex, 973-875-5800. April-Oct.: Daily 9-5pm. Closed Nov. -April. Adults $15, srs. $14, children 3-12 $10.50, under 3 free. Begun in 1927, Space Farms remains a privately owned collection of over 100 different species of North American wildlife. 11-building museum houses over 50,000 items of “Americana.” Miniature golf; playground; picnic area; parties.

Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY, 718-442-3101. Daily 10-4:45. Children’s Center open year-round, weather permitting. Adults $8, srs. $6, ages 3-14 $5, under 3 & members free. Free on Wed. 2-4:45. Small zoo encompassing one square city block offers year-round entertainment as 90% of exhibits are indoors, including South American tropical forest, Aquarium, a Serpentarium housing amazing reptiles, and African

Savannah. You can purchase food to feed the domestic farm animals in the outdoor Children’s Center. Pony, cart rides, snack bar. Workshops for ages 4 & up; summer camp; Careers with Animals workshops for grades 6-9; Breakfast with the Beasts program. Education schedule available each season (718-442-3174). Wed Donation Day, admission by donation Wed. after 2pm. Sat Animal talk & touch presentations, 1pm. & Sun Reptiles feeding time, Sun. 2:30pm. Open Reptile Wing, houses 120 species of reptiles and features 2-level alligator pool, interactive exhibition space and “Fear Zone,” an exhibit designed to dispel common myths about reptiles. New Amur Leopard Habitat, the world’s rarest cat.

Turtle Back Zoo Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-5800. Winter hours: Daily 10-3:30. Adults $9, children 2-12/srs. $7, under 2 free. April-Nov. 30: Mon.-Sat. 10-4:30, Sun. 11-5:30. Adults $11, children 2-12/ srs. $8, under 2 free. Memberships available. Very kid-friendly zoo includes New Jersey and North American wildlife exhibits, South Asian animal exhibits, Waters of the World exhibit with penguins, otters and alligators, Big Cat Country, an aviary, reptile center, aquarium, Essex Farm with petting zoo and pony rides, train ride, carousel, picnic area, playground and Zoo Cafe. Group programs; outreach; children’s programs; Turtle Back Tots programs; volunteen program; zoo camp; birthday parties; special events throughout the year. Open Year-round Carousel Park, concession stands, restrooms and picnic area. Carousel $2. McLoone’s Boathouse, waterfront family dining. Mar 31- Treetop Adventure Course, visitors traverse Nov platforms built in the trees using rope bridges, zip lines and other challenging features. Must be at least 54 in. tall and under 250 lbs. Adult course $25, junior $15, zipline $10 (min. age 6). Reservations can be made online. A signed Participant Agreement form is required. . Mini-Golf Safari, 19-hole miniature golf course deisgned in the shape of the African continent. New Sea Lion & Sting Ray Exhibit, is open. Turtle Back Tots, toddler & infant programs. Selected Special Events Call ahead to confirm special event date. Thru Holiday Lights Spectacular, the zoo is illuminJan 1 ated by lights and holiday displays 5-9pm. Donations of non-perishable food items, unwrapped toys and new or gently used winter coats are appreciated. Free admission. Jan 18 Appreciate a Dragon Day. Feb 2 Ground Hog Day. Apr 1 Application Deadline for Summer Volunteen Program, open to teens 14-17 yrs. old. Apr 12 Wolf Birthday. Apr 27 AZA Party for the Planet. May 10 International Migratory Bird Day. May 17 AZA Endangered Species Day. Jun 8 AZA World Oceans Day. Jun 14 International Pigeon Day.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

AMUSEMENT & WATER PARKS Participating Recreation Departments sell discount tickets to many amusement and water parks in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through a consignment agreement with the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association. Contact your recreation office for availability and further information. CamelBeach Mountain Waterpark

Sesame Place® 100 Sesame Rd., Langhorne, PA 19047, 215-752-7070, 1866-GO-4-ELMO. The nation’s only theme park based on Sesame Street is designed for families with children ages 213. Water rides and activities, live shows, Vapor Trail roller coaster, Rock Around the Block Parade.

Six Flags Great Adventure & Hurricane Harbor Jackson, 732-928-1821. Reopening for the season in April. Fun for the entire family includes Adventure Alley section, 13 roller coasters, three children’s areas, Safari Off Road Adventure and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor water park.

One Camelback Rd., Tannersville, 570-629-1661.

SplashZone Waterpark

Clementon Park & Splash World

Schellenger Ave. & the Boardwalk, Wildwood, 609-729-5600.

144 Berlin Rd., Clementon, 856-783-0263.

Tomahawk Lake Waterpark

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom

Tomahawk Trail, Sparta, 973-398-7777. Family operated waterpark and “old-fashioned picnic place” features waterslides, bumper boats, paddle boats, rowboats, Kiddie Water World play area, and large swimming area on a white sandy beach. Catered group picnics are a specialty.

3830 Dorney Park Rd., Allentown, PA, 610-395-3724.

Field Station: Dinosaurs One Dinosaur Way, Secaucus, 855-999-9010 tickets, 973748-4317 groups. Reopening April, 2014. Meet a 15-foot T-Rex puppet, enjoy 3D movie Dinosaurs Alive!, and see the park come to life with dinosaur wranglers, troubadours and 32 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs at this interactive outdoor adventure in New Jersey’s Meadowlands. www.fieldstationdinosaurs.com

H20ooohh! Indoor Water Park Split Rock Resort, 100 Moseywood Rd., Lake Harmony, PA, 570-722-9111. H20ooohh! Indoor Water Park is the perfect family destination for hours of fun! The water park features attractions for all ages, 84 degrees all year round, and no hotel room reservation required. Conveniently located at Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony, PA. www.splitrockresort.com

Hershey Park West Derry Rd., (Rt. 78 to I-81S to exit 28), Hershey, PA. 800-HERSHEY.

Land of Make Believe Rt. 611 (Exit 12 Rt. 80), Hope, 908-459-9000. June 1-20: Weekends 10-6. June 20-Aug. 30: Open daily 10-6. Land of Make Believe is the perfect day trip destination. Park features state-of-the-art waterpark with pirate theme and an amusement park with unique rides, shows and attractions. Safe and wholesome. A day full of awesome fun for the whole family. www.Lomb.com

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Waterparks Boardwalk (GSP exit 4B), Wildwood, 609-522-3900.

Mountain Creek Waterpark 200 Rt. 94, Vernon, 973-864-8444, 973-864-8250.

Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor & Outdoor Water Park 535 N. Rt. 73, West Berlin, 856-767-7580. Sahara Sam’s Oasis is your place for great family fun and a birthday party your birthday child will never forget. Open year round under a retractable roof with over 70,000 feet of slides, rides and games. www.saharasams.com

Wild West City Rt. 206, PO Box 37, Netcong, NJ 07857, 973-347-8900.

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT S ee listings under the Outdoors, New York and Pennsylvania categories for many more ideas for getting outdoors. Essex County Treetop Adventure Ropes Course Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-5800. Open last weekend in Mar.-Thanksgiving weekend. Adult course, $25, junior $15, zipline $10 (min. age 6). Visitors traverse from platforms in the trees through a variety of challenging obstacles. Must be at least 54 in. tall and under 250 lbs. A liability waiver signed by a parent or guardian is required for those 18 and under. Reservations can be made online. www.turtlebackzoo.com

Jersey Shore Pirates Riverfront Marina, 281 Princeton Ave., Brick, 732-899-6100. Sailings daily April-Labor Day; Sat. & Sun. through Oct. Tickets: $19, 2 and under $12. One-and-three-quarter hr. pirate adventure includes face painting, dress up and sail on the Metedeconk River aboard the Sea Gypsy.

Mountain Creek 200 Rt. 94, Vernon, 973-827-2000. New Jersey’s winter playground offers tons of great things to do both on and off the

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

snow â&#x20AC;&#x201D; skiing, snowboarding, tubing and zip lining Dec.March and a whole new roster of outdoor fun once summer arrives. www.mountaincreek.com

South Mountain Reservation Paddleboats Cherry Lane, West Orange, 973-731-5800. Spring-fall: open daily 10-8. $14/half hr. for 2 person boat; $18/half hr. for 4 person boat; Orange residents receive half off with ID. Swan paddle boats for rent, walking paths and picnic pavilion. Call 973-735-6229 to reserve picnic pavilion.

MINI-GOLF

Essex County Mini Golf Safari Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, 560 Northfield Rd., West Orange, 862-520-5024. Open seasonally: Mon.-Fri. 1-9, Sat. 10-9, Sun. 11-9. Adults $8, under 12/srs. $6. 19-hole miniature golf course is designed in the shape of the African continent complete with 14 African animals interspersed among Sahara desert, Congo and grasslands habitats. A free shuttle travels between the golf course and Turtle Back Zoo and Codey Arena.

Hyatt Hills Golf Complex 1300 Raritan Rd., Clark, 732-669-9100.

Scotch Hills Country Club Golf Course Jerusalem Rd., Scotch Plains, 908-232-9748. 18-hole miniature golf course and 9-hole course, operated by the Scotch Plains Recreation Commission.

Somerset County Park Commission Putting Course Colonial Park, off Mettlers Rd., Franklin Twp., 732-873-8585. Memorial Day-Labor Day: Daily 10-10. Apr. & May/Sept. & Oct.: weekends 12-8. Adults $7, children/srs. $5, 10 or more $5. One-and-a-half-acre 18-hole putting course offers players mini-gardens, natural landscaping features, and greens from 25-75 feet long. Park also features playground, picnic area, paddleboats and nature trail.

INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT Branchburg Sports Complex 47 Readington Rd., Branchburg, 908-203-1600. New Jerseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand new premiere sports and family entertainment center

features 78,000 square feet of action-packed activities including three indoor turf fields, four batting cages, and a full service Pilates Studio. Arcade and multi-level laser tag arena provide fun for the whole family! BSC hosts laser tag, arcade, and sports themed birthday parties for kids of all ages. www.branchburgsports.com

Bridgewater Sports Arena 1425 Frontier Road, Bridgewater, 732-627-0006.

The Gravity Vault Indoor Rock Gyms 107 Pleasant Ave. at Rte. 17, Upper Saddle River, 201-934ROCK (7625); 40 Watchung Ave., Chatham, 973-701-ROCK (7625), email: info@gravityvault.com. Rock climbing is a fun and exciting sport for the kids and the whole family! The Gravity Vault offers over 13,000 square feet of state of the art rock climbing at each facility. Come take a class or climb with our professional instructors in a fun, safe, environment. Call or visit us online for details, pricing and programs or just stop by for a tour and to see what all the buzz is about! www.gravityvault.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

entertainment INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT Hardcore Paintball Arena 2E Chimney Rock Rd., Bridgewater, 732-868-3188. Open Tues.-Thurs. & Sun. until 10pm; Fri. & Sat. until midnight. Central New Jersey's largest indoor paintball arena offers you a spacious 22,000 sq. ft. to play in. Convenient hours fit any schedule. For true paintball fans, we offer training classes, action-packed summer camps and birthday parties. www.hardcorepaintballarena.com

State-of-the-art Rock Climbing! Adult & Kids Classes with our Professional Instructors Extraordinary Parties!

107 Pleasant Ave. @ Route 17N Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 201.934.ROCK (7625) ------40 Watchung Avenue Chatham, NJ 07928 973.701.ROCK (7625)

www.gravityvault.com Imagine That!!! Discovery Museum for Children

EY'S CENTRAL NEW JERS

LARGEST INDOOR PAINTBALL ARENA

4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, 973-966-8000; Monmouth County, 732-706-9000. Daily 10-5:30. Adult $9.95, child $10.95. Under one year no charge. A hands-on discovery museum for children ages toddler through 10. Over 50 activities, including an authentic plane and fire truck, shadow play, pirate ship, arts and crafts, dance studio, music room, science room, multi-cultural area, grocery store, diner, pet vet area and much more! Theme birthday parties and field trips available year round. See coupon on page 211. www.imaginethatmuseum.com

Medieval Times 149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst, 888-WE-JOUST (888-935-6878). Inside the fully-enclosed climate controlled castle, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feast on a fabulous 4-course medieval banquet while witnessing brave knights compete in daring games of skill, dangerous swordplay and an authentic jousting tournament. www.medievaltimes.com

welcome Walk-ins classes Training for le partiess, b a tt e rg Unfo ions - kid all occas am-building adults, te

New Jersey Rock Gym 373D Rt. 46W, Fairfield, 973-439-9860. Mon.-Fri. 2-10:30pm, Sat. & Sun. 10-8pm. Safe, friendly environment providing indoor rock climbing for birthday parties and groups, classes for kids and adults, boy and girl scout programs, summer and winter mini camp. More information online. www.njrockgym.com

Olympika Gymnastics 250 Sheffield St., Mountainside, 908-514-0449. Open gym, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; night out. www.olympikagymnastics.com

Ask a actionbout our summe -packed r camp s!

HARDCORE PAINTBALL ARENA

2E Chimney Rock Road, Bridgewater 732-868-3188 www.HardcorePaintballArena.com

Plaza Lanes Bowling 300 Main St., Staples Shopping Center, Madison, 973-3778919. Specializing in birthday parties, corporate and private parties and Galactic Bowling. We also have a Sunday morning special: $16 per lane for up to 5 bowlers (shoes extra). Call about our day camps, youth groups and Rec Centers. www.plazalanesbowling.net

Pole Position Raceway 99 Caven Point Rd., Jersey City, 201-333-7223. State-ofthe-art indoor electric karting facility features two racetracks in an 80,000 sq. foot facility. The karts are made in Europe and are capable of speeds of 45 mph. Fun for the whole family, ages 8 to 80! (must be over 48").

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

SET YOUR IMAGINATION FREE! S Weekly themed classes for parents & children 6-48 mos

UM CAMMER P!

Songs, musical instruments, finger puppets, parachute time and imaginative play! Our classes promote social, physical and transitional skills through gym, arts and crafts and preschool songs. Birthday Parties, Summer Camp and Baby Classes Available

P.E.P. CLUB Warren and Bernardsville 908-451-9280 • www.pepclub.info

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Dunellen Theater & Cinema Cafe

New York Ave. & Boardwalk, Atlantic City, 609-347-2001; 234 W. 42nd St., New York, 212-398-3133. Thirteen themed galleries feature strange and unusual artifacts collected from around the world. www.ripleysatlanticcity.com or www.ripleysnewyork.com.

458 North Ave., Dunellen, 732-968-9010. Adults $8, children $6. Families can enjoy dinner while watching familyoriented and children’s movies at a reasonable cost. Order food at the concession counter and it will be served at your table in the theater. www.dunellen-theater.com

MOVIES

AMC Dine-In Theatres Essex Green 9, 495 Prospect Ave., West Orange; AMC Bridgewater Commons 7; AMC Menlo Park 12, 888-AMC-4FUN. www.amctheatres.com/dinein AMC’s Dine-In theater experience combines cuisine and cocktail options inside the movie theatre. Fork & Screen theaters offer a more casual menu, including kids meals, and tabletop dining. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (at least 21). Cinema Suites feature upscale additions to the menu, luxury recliners and a minimum age requirement of 21 yrs. old. Show and seats can be reserved in advance online. Ongoing Sensory Friendly Films, films shown monthly for families affected by autism and other disabilities. Visit website for schedule and participating theatres, www.amctheatres.com. Dates and films are subject to change. 10am. www.amctheatres.com/SFF Dec 7: Frozen 2-D.

Digiplex Theaters Digiplex Rialto Westfield, 250 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908232-1288; Digiplex Cranford, 25 North Ave., Cranford, 908276-3070. Digiplex Sparta, 25 Center St., Sparta, 973-729-2100. Using digital technology, live broadcasts of sports events, concerts, theater performances and other immersive experiences are shown as well as first-run movies. www.digiplexdest.com

IMAX Theatres www.imax.com • Atlantic City: IMAX Tropicana Casino & Resort Atlantic City, 888-605-1435 • Cherry Hill: AMC Loews Cherry Hill 24 & IMAX 2121 Rt. 38, Cherry Hill, 888-262-4386 • Clifton: AMC Clifton Commons 16 & IMAX 405 Rt. 3 E., Clifton, 888-262-4386 • Elizabeth: AMC Lowes Jersey Gardens 20 & IMAX 651 Kapkowski Rd., Elizabeth, 888-262-4386 • Hamilton: AMC Hamilton 24 & IMAX 325 Sloan Ave., Hamilton, 888-262-4386 • Jersey City: IMAX Dome, Liberty Science Center 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City, 201-200-1000 • New Brunswick: AMC New Brunswick 18 & IMAX 17 US Highway 1, New Brunswick, 888-262-4386 • Paramus: AMC Garden State 16 & IMAX 1 Garden State Plaza, Paramus, 888-262-4386 • Rockaway: AMC Rockaway 16 & IMAX 363 Mt. Hope Ave., Rockaway, 888-262-4386 • West Nyack: IMAX Palisades Center 4270 Palisades Center Dr., West Nyack, 845-358-4629

MOMMY & ME Whatever your interests, you won’t run out of activities for you and your young child to enjoy together. In addition to those listed below, see listings under Enrichment for Mommy and Me programs in music, dance, art and more. Browse the Sports categories for infant and toddler swim lessons, gymnastics, tumbling and other sports. Outdoor Education Centers offer parent and child nature programs. Check Museum and Historic Site calendars for programs designed especially for their youngest visitors and stop in at the Library for storytimes for babies and toddlers.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

entertainment MOMMY & ME The Connection for Women and Families 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. The Connection offers a wide variety of parent/child classes providing children and their caregivers a safe and nurturing environment where they can explore, learn and participate in fun activities. Drop in and play $5. www.theconnectiononline.org

Color Me Mine – Summit 438 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-0248. Drop in our Paint-Your-Own ceramics studio where you can discover the art of having fun. See display ad on page 91. www.summit.colormemine.com

Express Yourself Studios 1877 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, 973-763-5256.

Fire Me Up

The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts

117 N. Union Ave., Cranford, 908-272-2600.

1820 East Second Street, Scotch Plains, 908-322-4249. The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts has been fostering the love of dance for over forty years. Join in the fun of a Mommy and Me dance class.

151 South St., Lower Level, Morristown, 973-656-0800.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center 1100 South Ave. W., Westfield, 908-317-0888; 522 Broad St., Glen Rock, 201-444-4644. Day, night, weekend classes and birthday parties. Children’s fitness center, 6 wks.-13 yrs. Songs, dance, puppets, games, relays, sport skills, gymnastics and more. Birthday parties, Parent’s Night Out, Summer, Spring and Winter Fun Days. See display ad on page 47.

Olympika Gymnastics 250 Sheffield St., Mountainside, 908-514-0449. Mom-and-me classes. See complete listing under Gymnastics.

P.E.P. Club (Preschool Enrichment Program) 908-451-9280. Class locations in Warren and Bernardsville. A parent and tot program for ages 6 mos.-4 yrs. that takes your child on imaginary adventures through music, tumbling, puppetry and crafts. Take a train ride, go to the zoo, farm and many other places. Also offer cooking class (3-7 yrs.), birthday parties and holiday theme parties. www.pepclub.info

United Soccer Academy 732 563 2525. Soccer lessons, camps and classes for aged 2 to 5 in the spring, summer, fall and winter! www.UnitedSoccerAcademy.com

US Sports Institute 732 563 2520. Offering classes in soccer, tennis, golf, lax, basketball and hockey for children aged 2 to 5. www.USsportsInstitute.com

Wompy's World of Musical Play Classes in Warren, Westfield, Morristown and Summit, 908-279-3030. Educate. Entertain. Love. Wompy's is an interactive musical playtime that teaches through art, puppets and instruments. Our weekly classes are for children 6 months- 4 years old with caregiver. Each week is a new lesson, encouraging learning and fun in a caring, loving atmosphere. Try it free! www.wompys.com

DROP-IN CREATIVE FUN The Beaded Path 9 Village Plaza, South Orange, 973-821-5280.

Be Craftful 250 South Ave., Fanwood, 908-322-3226.

Bee ‘n Crafty 30 Olcott Sq., Bernardsville, 908-953-9000.

Glassworks Studio

FAIRS & FESTIVALS See Calendar of Events starting on page 213 and Hot Picks on www.kidsguidenj.com for more upcoming fairs and festivals. Clearwater’s Great Hudson River Revival Croton Point Park, Croton-on-Hudson. 845-418-3596. Annual environmental celebration features storytellers, family-oriented entertainers, juried crafts, Green Living Expo, boat exhibits, rides and environmental education displays. Proceeds support the Clearwater organization’s environmental education and advocacy efforts to help preserve and protect the Hudson River. www.clearwaterfestival.org

Jun 21-22

25th Annual Crawfish Fest Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Rd., Augusta, 973948-5500. Three day Louisiana and New Orleans style music, food and camping festival. www.crawfishfest.com

May 30-Jun 1

Governors Ball Music Festival Randall’s Island, 20 Randall’s Island Park, New York. Three day music festival in early June. www.govball.com

Jun

10th Annual Mountain Jam Hunter Mountain, Hunter, NY. Independent four-day outdoor music festival, produced by WDST Radio Woodstock and Warren Haynes. www.mountainjam.com

Jun 5-8

Street Fairs–Kids Traveling Shindig by JC Promotions A full calendar of street fairs feature arts and crafts, merchandise and food plus Kids Traveling Shindig with rides, ponies, games, petting zoo, craft bus, ice cream and more. www.jcpromotions.info Apr 20 Maywood’s 8th Semi Annual Spring Street Fair. Apr 27 Adorno Father’s Springtime Fair, 575 Darlington Ave., Ramsey. May 17 Clifton Street Fair, 1119 Main St., Clifton. May 26 Woodland Park Memorial Day Street Fair, 1150 McBride Ave., Woodland Park. Jun 1 Montvale Street Fair, Paragon Dr., Montvale. Jun 8 Pequannock 16th Annual Street Fair, Newark Pompton Tnpk. & Jackson Ave., Pequannock. Jun 15 Nutley 7th Annual Father’s Day Street Fair, Franklin Ave., Nutley. Jun 22 Summit Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts, 22 Beechwood Rd., Summit.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

BIG SHOWS & CONCERTS

through film, interactive displays, text panels and artifacts. www.BethelWoodsCenter.org

Boardwalk Hall New concerts and shows are continuously added. Go to kidsguidenj.com and use the convenient links to listing websites to view new events. For smaller concert venues, see listings under Arts – Music & Dance.

2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, 609-348-7000. Tickets: 800736-1420. Seaside arena, originally built in 1929, now seats over 14,000 people and hosts world-class entertainers and national touring productions. www.boardwalkhall.com

The Bowery Presents Asbury Park Events Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com; 800-745-3000. Renowned for live music, Asbury Park is home to Convention Hall and The Paramount Theatre, a historic 1,600 seat theater on the boardwalk, and clubs including The Stone Pony, Brighton Bar, Wonder Bar and more, presenting nationally and locally known artists in concert. The Stone Pony expands its lineup during summer with an outdoor Summer Stage series. For current schedule, visit www.stoneponyonline.com or for listings for all venues, www.apboardwalk.com.

Big Apple Circus Damrosch Park, Lincoln Center, 800-922-3772, 888-541-3750. Intimate, classical one-ring circus at Lincoln Center Nov.-Jan. and other locations throughout the year. www.bigapplecircus.org Thru Luminocity, Lincoln Center, NY.

Jan 12 Feb 27Mar 16

Luminocity, TD Bank Center, Bridgewater.

Beacon Theatre 74th & Broadway, New York, 866-858-0008. Group sales 800-223-7565. Concerts and a variety of special events are presented in a renovated 2,800-seat landmark building. www.beacontheatre.com Selected Kids Shows Dec 20- A Very Awesome–Yo Gabba Gabba! Live– Dec 22 Holiday Show.

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts At the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, 200 Hurd Rd., Bethel, NY, 866-781-2922. A diverse selection of popular artists, film, educational and community programs are presented in a 15,000-capacity outdoor performing arts venue and indoor gallery space. The museum tells the story of the Sixties and the unique experience of the Woodstock Festival

Promotes artists at venues throughout the region as well as at their own venues including NYC’s Mercury Lounge, The Bowery Ballroom, Music Hall of Williamsburg, Terminal 5 and Rough Trade NYC. www.bowerypresents.com

Broadway – On & Off For tickets, www.ticketmaster.com; 800-745-3000; www.telecharge.com; www.DisneyOnBroadway.com. See introduction to New York listings for info about Broadway shows and discount tickets. Selected Family Shows Open Aladdin, Disney, New Amsterdam Theatre. Annie, Palace Theatre. Berenstain Bears Live! in Family Matters, The Musical, Manhattan Movement & Arts Center. Blue Man Group, Astor Place Theatre. Cinderella, Broadway Theatre. The Gazillion Bubble Show, New World Stages. The Lion King, Minskoff Theatre. The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe, St. Luke’s Theatre. Mamma Mia, Broadhurst Theatre. Matilda, Shubert Theatre. Newsies, Nederlander Theatre. Peter & the Starcatcher, New World Stages. Phantom of the Opera, Majestic Theatre. Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark, Foxwoods. Stomp, Orpheum Theatre. Wicked, Gershwin Theatre.

Garden State Exhibit Center 50 Atrium Dr., Somerset, 732-469-4000. Many shows offer free admission for children. www.gsec.com. Jan 4-5 Great Train Show. Jan 11-12 The Harley Rendezvous. Jan 17-19 New Jersey Golf Show.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

entertainment BIG SHOWS & CONCERTS Garden State Exhibit Center continued Jan 24-26 Feb 7-9 Feb 21-23 Mar 6-9 Mar 14-16 Mar 21-23 Mar 28-30 Apr 25-27 May 2-4 Jun 6-8 Jul 19-20

The Fly Fishing Show. Garden State Home Show. 2014 Woodworking Show. NJ Quilt Festival 2014. Saltwater Fishing Expo. Sugarloaf Crafts Festival. Paddlesport 2014. Sports & Memorabilia Show. Mind, Body & Spirit Expo. Animenext 2014. Garden State Cat Show.

Izod Center Rt. 3, East Rutherford. Box office: 201-935-3900; group sales 201-460-4370. www.meadowlands.com Selected Events Jan 3-5 Disney On Ice–100 Years of Magic. Feb 14-15 Monster Jam. Feb 17 Harlem Globetrotters 2014 “Fans Rule” World Tour. Mar 1-2 Nuclear Cowboyz. Mar 19-23 Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Presents Legends. Apr 5-6 Disney Junior Live on Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure.

Jambase.com Guide to live music, concerts and festivals, nationwide.

Live Nation From the website of Live Nation, one of the largest producers of live concerts in the world, you can search concerts by artist or venue and purchase tickets. www.livenation.com

Madison Square Garden The Stadium or WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden, 7th Ave. at 33rd, 866-858-0008. Groups: 212-465-6080. Check website for new events. Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com; 800745-3000. www.thegarden.com or www.theateratmsg.com Selected Family Events Winter New York Rangers and New York Knicks home games. Jan 8 Nitro Circus Live. Feb 10-11 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Feb 16 Harlem Globetrotters. Apr 1-3 77th Annual National Invitation Tournament.

New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center Raritan Center (Rt. 287 exit Rt. 514W), 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison, 732-417-1400. www.njexpocenter.com Jan 5 New Jersey Bridal Show. Jan 9-12 Garden State Outdoor Sportsman Show. Jan 17-19 NJ Winter RV Show. Jan 24-26 Country Folk Art Craft Show. Feb 7-9 Super Pet Expo. Feb 13-16 NJ Flower & Garden Show. Feb 20-23 NJ Boat Sale & Expo. Mar 2 Travel Expo. Mar 7-9 New Jersey Home Show. Mar 21-23 New Brunswick Kennel Club Dog Show. Mar 28-30 Country Folk Art Craft Show.

Mar 29-30 Mar 29-30 Apr 5-6 Apr 11-13 May 2-4 May 16-17 Jun 6-7 Jun 15 Jun 22

Greenberg’s Train & Toy Show. Innovative Beads Show. India Fair. NY/NJ Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show. 2014 Abilities Expo. NJ Homeschool Convention. NJ Con4 Gaming Convention. Greater NJ Record Shows. FEIS–Irish Dance Competition.

PNC Bank Arts Center Parkway exit 116, Holmdel, box office: 732-203-2500. Outdoor concert season May-Sept. with seating in open-air pavilion and on lawn. Free heritage festivals and classical performances presented by Garden State Arts Foundation, 732-442-9200. www.artscenter.com, www.gsafoundation.org

Prudential Center 165 Mulberry St., Newark, 973-757-6000. Tickets: 800-7453000, www.ticketmaster.com. www.prucenter.com Ongoing New Jersey Devils, New York Liberty and Seton Hall Pirates men’s basketball. Selected Family Shows Jan 15-20 Disney On Ice. Jan 28 Super Bowl XLVIII Media Day. Feb 16 Harlem Globetrotters. Mar 13-16 Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Presents: Legends.

Radio City Music Hall Rockefeller Center, 60th St. & Ave. of the Americas, 866-8580008. Groups: 212-465-6100. www.radiocity.com Thru Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

Dec 30

St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt St., Staten Island, 718-442-2900. Call box office or Ticketmaster for tickets, www.ticketmaster.com; 800-7453000. Restored 2,800-seat 1929 movie and vaudeville house presents concerts, comedy, Broadway touring companies, small and large scale children's shows, and school-time performances. www.stgeorgetheatre.com Selected Children & Family Shows Dec 30 Blue’s Clues Live! Mar 2 Wizard of Oz. Mar 7 Beauty & the Beast, American Family Theater. Apr 27 Dora The Explorer Live: Dora’s Pirate Adventure!

Sun National Bank Center 81 Hamilton Ave. at Rt. 129 (Tnpk. exit 7A), Trenton, 609-6563200, 800-298-4200. Hotline: 609-656-3222. Tickets: www.comcasttix.com. Group tickets: 609-656-3234. Home for Trenton Steel football and Trenton Titans hockey as well as concerts and special events. www.snbcenter.com Jan 3-4 Monster Jam 2014. Jan 12 Heavy Hitters Cheerleading. Jan 29Disney On Ice: 100 Years of Magic!

Feb 2 Feb 16 Mar 2 Mar 8 Mar 15-16 Mar 22

Mardi Gras Bead Blitz. NJCDCA Cheer & Dance Championships. Harlem Globetrotters 2014 “Fans Rule” World Tour. USA NJ Wrestling 2014 State Finals. Fabulous 50’s Open Championship.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Susquehanna Bank Center at the Waterfront

Dec 28

1 Harbour Blvd. (Tnpk. exit 4), Camden, 800-745-3000. Outdoor amphitheater with huge lawn during the summer months converts to a fully enclosed theater in the fall and winter. www.livenation.com, enter venue name.

Jan 20

Ticketmaster 800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com. One of the largest suppliers of tickets globally to music, sports, arts and theater events consolidates kid-friendly shows in the area at www.ticketmaster.com under the “Family” heading.

Wells Fargo Center 3601 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, 800-298-4200. Event hotline: 215-336-3600. Sports–entertainment complex. Tickets: www.comcastTix.com. www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com Ongoing Philadelphia Flyers, 76ers, Wings Lacrosse and college basketball. Selected Events Dec 26Disney On Ice Let’s Celebrate!

Jan 5 Jan 9 Jan 26 Feb 12-16 Mar 9 Apr 10, 12

Nitro Circus Live. 37th Annual Flyers Wives Carnival. Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus “Legends.” Harlem Globetrotters. NCAA Frozen Four.

Wellmont Theater 5 Seymour St., Montclair, 800-745-3000. 2000-seat concert venue in renovated 1922 theater. Check Ticketmaster for events, www.ticketmaster.com.

SPECTATOR SPORTS Camden Riversharks Campbell’s Field, Cooper St. or Market St. (at the base of Walt Whitman Bridge), Camden, 866-SHARKS-9. Fireworks on Fridays, kids run bases on Saturdays and free ice cream post game on Sundays. Utz Fun Zone. www.riversharks.com

Lakewood BlueClaws FirstEnergy Park, 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood, 732-901-7000. Baseball at the Jersey Shore. Kids (ages 12 & under) eat free every Sunday and Monday. Kids Characters visit on Sundays. Fireworks every Friday. Birthday parties. Selected Special Events Apr 21 Phillies Night. Apr 22 Roy White, autograph signing. Apr 27 Yo Gabba Gabba Character. May 8 Duck Dynasty’s Mountain Man, autographs. May 17 Bark in the Park, bring your dog.

William G. Mennen Sports Arena 161 E. Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973-326-7651. Home to Colonial Hockey League youth hockey program and the New Jersey Revolution, professional indoor football team (www.njrevs.com). Spectators are welcome at youth hockey playoffs and championships, open skating competitions and special events. Thru Friday Night Skate with DJ Earl, 8-10pm Apr 25 Fridays. $7, skate rental $3.50. Nov-Feb Morris County Secondary Schools Ice Hockey Season, spectators welcome.

Feb 12-19 Feb 20-21 Mar 1 Apr 12-13 Apr 19-20 May 15-18

9th Annual Snowball Classic, ice skating show. 4:45-6:15pm. 2nd Annual Olympic Day, skating exhibitions & Olympic flag signing. 1:14-1:45pm. High school hockey league playoffs & championships, quarter final & semi-final games. High school hockey championship games. 2014 NJSIAA state ice hockey playoffs, begin March 1. 2014 Morris Open Skating Competition. North American Grappling Association. Shrine Circus, for show times & tickets, 973992-2860.

Monmouth Park Racetrack 175 Oceanport Ave. (GSP exit 105), Oceanport, 732-222-5100. Thoroughbred racing Wed.-Sun. Memorial Day weekendLabor Day weekend. Grandstand $3, clubhouse $4, under 12 free. Srs. half price. Gates open 11:30; 1st race 1pm.

Newark Bears Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium, 450 Broad St. (on NJ Transit Morris-Essex line), Newark, 973-848-1000. www.newarkbears.com

New Jersey Devils Prudential Center, Lafayette at Mulberry St., Newark, 800NJ-DEVIL. National Hockey League. www.newjerseydevils.com

New Jersey Jackals Yogi Berra Stadium, Montclair State University, 973746-7434. Reserved & box seats. Unaffiliated team in Northeast League. June-Aug. season. Party packages.

New Jersey Revolution Mennen Sports Arena, 161 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 888718-4253. Home to NJ Revolution professional indoor football. www.njrevs.com

New York Giants Meadowlands Stadium, Giants Dr., East Rutherford, www.giants.com. Buy and sell Giants tickets at NFL ticket exchange, www.NFL.com/ticketexchange.

New York Jets Meadowlands Stadium, East Rutherford, 800-469-JETS. Single tickets: 800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com. Buy and sell Jets tickets at NFL ticket exchange, www.NFL.com/ ticketexchange. Jets Training Center, located on the border of Madison and Florham Park, is open to the public in Aug. with an opportunity to watch a scrimmage from the sidelines, get players’ autographs and pictures and purchase Jets gear. www.newyorkjets.com

New York Red Bulls Red Bull Arena, 600 Cape May St., Harrison, 877-924-1624. Major league soccer from March through Oct. in a familyfriendly state-of-the-art arena. www.newyorkredbulls.com

New York Yankees One E. 161st St., Bronx, NY, . Arrive early to walk the impressive stadium, visit the Great Hall, Monument Hall (closes 45 min. prior to game time) and the New York Yankees Museum (open until end of 8th inning). Yankee Stadium tours are available during off-season. www.yankees.com

Philadelphia Phillies Citizens Bank Park, One Citizens Bank Way, Philadelphia, 215463-1000. Pre-game children’s games and activities. www.phillies.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

entertainment SPECTATOR SPORTS Prudential Center 165 Mulberry St., Newark, tickets: 800-745-3000. General information: 973-757-6000. Home to New Jersey Devils hockey, New Jersey Nets basketball, Seton Hall Pirates basketball and New Jersey Ironmen indoor soccer league. www.ticketmaster.com, www.prucenter.com

Rutgers Sports Rutgers Stadium, River & Sutphen Rds., 866-445-4678. www.scarletknights.com

PARTY PLACES Local recreation departments may have facilities and/or play equipment available for parties for a nominal fee. Contact your recreation office for information. Art-4-All Party 265 E. Main St., Somerville, 908-725-4490. All your guests will be thrilled to go home with their own unique creation. 11⁄2-2 hr. party includes facility use and choice of age-appropriate art project such as tinsel painting, book bag painting, placemat, t-shirt and more. $10 per child. www.art-4-all-inc.com

The Ballpark 1 Silver Ct., Springfield, 973-376-9295. One hour and 45 minutes of action-packed fun includes games and drills, pizza or hot dog, unlimited popcorn, soda, t-shirt for the birthday child, one free token per child and all paper goods. Reserve now at Union County's premier baseball and softball facility. www.theballparkonline.com

Branchburg Sports Complex 47 Readington Rd., Branchburg, 908-203-1600. Laser tag, arcade and sports themed birthday parties for all ages.

Building Kidz 355 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston, 973-800-0100. Email: BuildingKidzNJ@gmail.com. Three exciting parties include LEGO-themed games, teamwork and fun! Computers and robotics are used at all parties. Choose from: Building Bash for preschoolers which includes take-home LEGO craft; WeDo Robotics for grades K-3; "Ninjago" spinners, alligators and more are waiting to be built; or Mindstorms for grades 4-6 where participants Battle the Bots they create. www.BuildingKidzNJ.com

Celebrations at JCC MetroWest Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-929-2944. Birthday party options for all ages featuring a JCC instructor and party room for refreshments. Work with our professional staff to celebrate a life cycle event — bar/bat mitzvah, baby naming or adult party.

Somerset Patriots Office: 20 W. Main, Somerville, 908-252-0700. Ballpark: off E. Main St. (on NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley line), Bridgewater. Field box, upper box, family section (alcohol-free), group sales, luxury suites, party packages, Baseball Buddies program for youth teams and Somerset Sluggers Kids Club. Atlantic league club. www.somersetpatriots.com

Trenton Thunder Waterfront Park, 1 Thunder Rd., Trenton, 609-394-TEAM. Tickets $3-8. Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox in Eastern league. April-Sept. season.

Chef Carls Pizza Party 888-794-8540. Our award winning party lets your little chefs make their own pizza. The ingredients for their culinary masterpiece include invitations, chef hats, aprons, paperware, pizza-making, ice cream sundae or cupcake-making, magic tricks, music, dancing, graduation ceremony and certificates, goodie bags and they can even build a stuffed animal (if you choose Party #3). New! Travel the globe by making exciting dishes from the U.S. to the beyond! Five great international cooking party options: Traditional American, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Vegetarian. Three birthday party packages to choose from as well as parties for schools, summer camps, special needs and fundraising. www.makeapizzaparty.com

Circus Place 6 Jill Court, Bldg. 23, Hillsborough, 908-829-3784. Offering exciting parties for all ages — circus skills, aerial arts including trapeze and silks, juggling, stilt walking, unicycle, acrobatics, magic and more. www.thecircusplace.com

Classic Thyme Cooking School 710 South Ave. West, Westfield, 908-232-5445. Our expanded party offerings are for kids as well as teens and adults. For kids ages 3 and older, our “Chef for a Day” and “Recipe for a Bear” are sure-fire favorites. NEW this year is our “Cooking with the Kids” where parents fully participate in the culinary fun with their children. For kids ages 8 and up, especially teens, consider our decadent “Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate,” “Sweet Sixteen,” and “Cook-Off Challenge” parties. For more info, www.classicthyme.com.

Color Me Mine – Summit 438 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-0248. A Paint-YourOwn ceramics studio where you can discover the art of having fun. We host amazing birthday parties, wedding and baby showers, bar/bat mitzvahs, church groups, fundraisers, team-building activities or any other special event. We can accommodate up to 60 people at our studio or can bring our ceramics parties anywhere you want. Call or visit our website for more information. See display ad on page 91. www.summit.colormemine.com

The Connection for Women and Families 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Ages 2 and up choose birthday party themes: Gym Party, Pool Party, Cooking Party or Sports and Games. www.theconnectiononline.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Creative Hands Art Studio and Atelier

Heaven Hill Farm’s Action Fun Farm

14 Kings Rd., Madison, 908-604-0773. Fun and creative birthday workshops for ages 3 through teens. Great choices of fine art techniques and themes from drawing and painting to throwing pots on our pottery wheels. A creative birthday is a happy one! See ad under Enrichment. www.creativehandssignup.com

451 Rte. 94, Vernon, 973-764-5144. In season, kids have a blast at Heaven Hill’s Action Fun Farm. Interactive corn maze, pedal go cart track, duck racing derbies, spider web play area, corn box play area, hippity hop village, farm animals, vortex tunnel, hay crawl tunnel, giant sling shot, obstacle course, fire truck rides, little cabin buildings, post pounder, tether ball, sand box play area, Discovery Center with Maggie the Milking Cow, farm tour hay rides, gem mining and more!

Environmental Party-Somerset County Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489. 2hr. party for ages 5-10 includes naturalist program, setup, cleanup, decorations, dishes, invitations and favors.

The Gravity Vault Indoor Rock Gyms 107 Pleasant Ave. at Rte. 17, Upper Saddle River, 201-934ROCK (7625); 40 Watchung Ave., Chatham, 973-701-ROCK (7625), email: info@gravityvault.com. Rock climbing is the perfect way to celebrate your child’s next birthday! Our parties are 2 hours in length, including an hour and half climbing experience in our state of the art facility led by our professional instructors followed by a half hour in our private party room. The Gravity Vault rock climbing parties give kids (ages 5+) a fun, safe, and exciting birthday they will never forget! www.gravityvault.com

Hardcore Paintball Arena 2E Chimney Rock Rd., Bridgewater, 732-868-3188. Open Tues.-Thurs. & Sun. until 10pm; Fri. & Sat. until midnight. Central New Jersey's largest indoor paintball arena offers you a spacious 22,000 sq. ft. to play in. Convenient hours fit any schedule. For true paintball fans, we offer training classes, action-packed summer camps and birthday parties. www.hardcorepaintballarena.com

For a full 2 hours of

Bowling Fun! Birthday Parties Corporate and Private Parties Galactic Bowling SUNDAY MORNING SPECIAL $16/lane for up to 5 bowlers (shoes extra)

300 Main St. Madison (Staples Shopping Center)

973-377-8919 plazalanesbowling.net

100

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

party planner PARTY PLACES Imagine That!!! Discovery Museum for Children 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, 973-966-8000. Enjoy an exciting, fun-filled adventure at Imagine That! Your child and guests will be thrilled to explore many unique exhibits, including a real plane, fire truck, pet vet, pirate ship, dance studio, grocery store & diner, art gallery and much more. Parties include paper products, hostess, private suite & unlimited time to explore. Theme parties: dance, pirate, firefighter, train, princess/prince and craft parties. Kosher, Indian and Italian catering available. We truly customize your child's party. We will do ANYTHING! Call to ask about PRIVATE parties! www.imaginethatmuseum.com

Kafka Farms Horse Party 901 Valley Rd., Watchung, 908-405-8038. Call for info. www.kafkafarms.com

Liberty Hall Birthday Party 1003 Morris Ave., Union, 908-527-0400. Choose from a Victorian Tea Birthday Party or Firefighter Birthday Party at historic Liberty Hall or at the Firehouse Museum. Recommended for ages 6-12.

Madison Area YMCA 111 Kings Rd., Madison, 973-822-YMCA. Rooms available for birthday parties, as well as staff available to lead party activities in the pool, gym, gymnastic center, dance and arts and crafts.

Meyer’s Dolls Toys Hobbies 35 E. Northfield Rd., Livingston, 973-740-9400. Celebrating our 99th year in business! Have a spectacular Thomas Train Theme Party in a fun, safe, clean party space for up to 30 kids, all at a very reasonable price. Kid-sized tables/chairs included. Huge selection of party favors, too! For more information, visit www.meyerstoys.com.

Montclair Art Museum Art Party Montclair Art Museum, 3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair, 973-746-5555, ext. 259. 2-hr. arts and crafts party offered on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. $20 per child.

Morris County Park Commission Party 973-326-7600. From ice skating to a beach swim party or outdoor hikes, complete party packages are available through the Morris County Park Commission.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center 1100 South Ave. W., Westfield, 908-317-0888; 522 Broad St., Glen Rock, 201-444-4644. Awesome new birthday party packages. Many themes to choose from. Your child is the star. Age appropriate games, relays, rides, songs. Special Birthday March and Space Flight ride. We set up, clean up and take care of it all. See display ad on page 47.

Nature Party-Reeves Reed Arboretum Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Ave., Summit, 908273-8787, ext. 15. Nature-themed parties for ages 4 and up.

Nature Party-Trailside Science Center Trailside Nature and Science Center, Mountainside, 908-789-3670 (9-1pm). Choose from a variety of nature programs.

Nature Party-Essex County Essex County Environmental Center, West Essex Park, 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776. Celebrate your next birthday with a nature theme. Call for party packages.

Nature Party-Hunterdon County Mountain Farm or Echo Hill, Hunterdon County Parks, 908782-1158. 2-hr. birthday party hosted by a park naturalist includes room rental, one hour nature hike, half hour of crafts or field games, and gift for the birthday child.

New Jersey Audubon Party Scherman-Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, 11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-5787 ext. 23. Nature-themed celebration includes party space and lesson with naturalist.

Olympika Gymnastics 250 Sheffield St., Mountainside, 908-514-0449. Basic gymnastics accompanied by many games, obstacle course, tumble track, zip line, trampolines, parachute and flying rings in a fun and safe environment. Boys and girls 2-14. Max. 40 kids. www.olympikagymnastics.com

Palermo Show Stable Party 1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500, 210-8605688. Info@palermoshowstable.com. We host birthday parties and scout troops. www.palermoshowstable.com

P.E.P. Club (Preschool Enrichment Program) 908-451-9280. Your location or ours. Birthday parties available for ages 1-7. Tumbling, crafts and music; cooking parties; and tea parties. Party locations in Warren and Bernardsville. www.pepclub.info

Pony Party-Somerset County Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-766-5955. 2-hr. party for ages 5-10. Pony-themed party favors, invitations, paper goods and souvenirs available for purchase.

Printmaking Council of New Jersey 440 River Rd., Branchburg, 908-725-2110. Creative parties for ages 5 and up. Choose from papermaking, silkscreen t-shirts, soap-crafting and painterly prints in an intimate setting or at your location. www.printnj.org

RVCC Theatre Party Edward Nash Theatre, Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd., North Branch, 908-725-3420. Party package includes invitations, tickets to a Sunday Sampler performance, birthday announced from the stage, use of party room for 45 min., refreshments and special gift for birthday child.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Obsessed With Trains? R

101

HAVE A THOMAS TRAIN PARTY AT MEYER’S! *Decorate & take home your own wooden train *Play at Deluxe Wooden Train Tables *Build your own super Train Layouts *Watch a giant-screen Thomas Train Movie *Run our huge Lionel Train layout- blow the whistles, operate the accessories!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT www.meyerstoys.com WINNER Best Children’s Party

meyer’s

SINCE 1914

35 E. Northfield Rd Livingston, NJ

DOLLS TOYS HOBBIES

(973) 740-9400

St. Hubert’s Animal Party St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, 973-377-8877 ext. 234. Be a party animal! St. Hubert’s supplies party space, animals and fun for ages 7-11. You supply the decorations and food. Call or email Ellen Goldberg at egoldberg@sthuberts.org. See display ad on page 104.

Salta! Jump into Spanish Locations in Livingston, Edison and Princeton, 732-3712221. See ad and listing under Enrichment–Language. www.saltajump.com

Shaolin Kung Fu & Tai Chi 50 Mount Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-988-0779. Strengthen body and mind. Birthday parties. www.njshaolin.com

Seaton Hackney Stables 440 South St., Morristown, 973-644-3355. Celebrate those special occasions in your child’s life at Seaton Hackney Stables. You supply the people and we supply the ponies, pizza and pizzazz. www.seatonhackney.com

Shimon & Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater (conveniently located off Rt. 202-206), 908-725-6994 ext. 206. Email LKopman@ssbjcc.org. www.ssbjcc.org. Numerous birthday party packages are available for children ages 2 years old and up. All run for 1½ hours with the option to extend. Each package includes choice of an activity (Swim, Gym/Sports, Music, Ballet/Dance, Creative Movement, Princess Party and ScienceTime), a party room, party helper, paper goods (for the kids), invitations and the birthday child is free! Swim parties include a free swim with lifeguards. Gym/Sports, Music, Ballet/Dance, Creative Movement, Princess and ScienceTime parties include an activity leader. Parties book far in advance so don’t miss out. Ask about room rentals for your child’s Baby Naming or Briss, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebration, Sweet 16 Party, Graduation Party and more! Book your best party ever by calling today. Upcoming Special Events Mar 9 Purim Carnival. Mar 16 Mah Jongg Tournament. May 4 Lag B’Omer Maccabi Games. Jun 9 Annual Golf Outing (Raritan Valley Country Club).

Jun 19 Jun 23

Mah Jongg Tournament. First Day of JCC Camp Ruach.

Somerset Patriots Party 1 Patriots Park, Bridgewater, 908-252-0700 x209. Birthday party packages include box tickets, singing to the birthday child on the field, name displayed on scoreboard, t-shirt, signed baseball, group picture and more.

The Sports Academy 56 E. Willow St., Millburn, 973-912-9002. Indoor sports birthday parties. See display ad and listing under Multi-Sports.

Union Sports Arena 2441-A Rt. 22W, Union, 908-687-8610. Union Sports Arena is Union County’s “coolest” place for fun, featuring a yearround indoor ice skating rink and two indoor soccer fields. Our skating, soccer, football and baseball birthday parties are the best! www.unionsportsarena.com

United Soccer Academy US Sports Institute 12 Maiden Lane, Bound Brook, 732 563 2525. The experts in providing soccer parties for your child’s birthday or choose a sports themed party and let us take care of everything. Host the party at your home or a suitable location (indoors or out). Alternatively let us take care of everything in our istate-of-the-art indoor facility. www.UnitedSoccerAcademy.com; USsportsInstitute.com

Watchung Arts Center Artistic Party Watchung Arts Center, 18 Stirling Rd., Watchung, 908-7530190. Projects based on storybook or cartoon characters, popular heroes, hobbies, or movies with activities designed for ages 3 and up.

PARTY ENTERTAINMENT Color Me Mine – Summit 438 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-0248. We can bring our amazing ceramics parties anywhere you want. www.summit.colormemine.com

102

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

party planner

The

Lizard Guys

educational animal presentations Parties q Schools h Camps Scouts v Special Events (908) 722-1519

www.TheLizardGuys.com P.O. Box 6, Raritan, NJ 08869

PARTY ENTERTAINMENT Chef Carls Pizza Party 888-794-8540. Our award winning party lets your little chefs make their own pizza. Parties for schools, summer camps, special needs and fundraising. See complete listing under Party Entertainment. www.makeapizzaparty.com

Great Scott! It’s Magic! 973-857-4004. Whether it’s a birthday party or large event, Great Scott brings home the laughs. You’ll be totally amazed by his blue and gold macaw, Thurston, who talks and performs funny sight gags as well as Scott’s unique brand of comedy magic. For details and availability, call 973857-4004. www.greatscott.tv

Hire A Fire Truck 201-807-0077, www.hireafiretrucknj.com. Imagine a real working fire truck at your party! Fire safety, games, pictures, goodie bags, 700-gal. of water fun and more. Available for birthday parties, special occasions, block parties, whatever you can imagine! See display ad on page 105.

Joe Fischer, Magical Entertainer 973-661-9368. A program of magic, comedy and lots of audience participation. Nonstop family entertainment for all ages and any occasion. Also workshops on magic, juggling, balloon sculpting and origami. Full-time professional performer. www.joefischermagic.com

Krafty Kidz

Award-winning PIZZA PARTY packages include magic, music and more!

INTERNATIONAL COOKING PARTIES! N EW!

Travel the globe!

Ideal for birthdays, schools, camps, special needs and fundraising events!

888-794-8540 www.makeapizzaparty.com

Email: kraftykidznj@gmail.com. Krafty Kidz brings art and learning together. Through age-appropriate projects, boys and girls create, learn and laugh. Children engage in unique craft projects based on seasonal themes. A variety of mediums are used in order to promote creativity. Birthday party packages include a unique customizable craft project, full supervision by Krafty Kidz staff, goodie bags, pizza and drinks. Two hour party: $225 for up to 10 children plus $7.50 for each additional child. Email Melissa for reservations and information. See display ad on page 105.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

The Lizard Guys P.O. Box 6, Raritan, 908-722-1519. An entertaining introduction to live lizards, snakes, turtles, frogs and bugs. Available for parties, day cares, camps, schools, scout meetings and special events. Children will look, laugh and learn with The Lizard Guys and their living fossils in a fun, interactive and safe presentation. Ask about our Peas & Carrots music show. www.TheLizardGuys.com

Magic! Wizards! Clowns! Pirates! Balloons! & More! 908-803-5179. Comedy – Interactive family fun for parties, schools, camps, picnics, libraries, etc. by Mark A.S. Dolson. Professional theme magic shows, balloon art, goodie bags, slime lab & more. Check out website for more information, www.wingsofmagic.com.

Multi-Sports Party US Sports Institute, 732 563 2520. Choose a multi sports party for your child’s birthday this year and let us take care of everything, making it a hassle free, and relaxed experience for you. Our coaches travel to you or we can host the party at our facility. www.USsportsInstitute.com

Music To My Ears Kids’ Party Entertainment 908-874-5300. Recognized as one of the best interactive kids’ music shows in New Jersey for first through fifth birthdays, special needs parties, holidays, summer camp and more (entertainment for babies, toddlers and children through 10 years). Live guitar and sing-alongs. Lots of audience participation! Dance with scarves, play with bubbles, a steel drum and more instruments than you can imagine. Children love to strum “Miss Kathy’s” guitar and sing into a real microphone. We bring the fun to you! “Miss Kathy” and her husband team together at each party to make it a unique and memorable experience. They have delighted over 10,000 children in Central and Northern New Jersey with their interactive music show. Great for large and small groups. Personal service and attention. Speak directly with “Miss Kathy” to discuss how she can make your child’s next party extra special! www.MusicToMyEars.com

Party Maniacs by Scott Levy 973-376-2211. We come to you with fast-paced musical games, face painting, balloon sculpting, group dancing, sand art, dj's and more. Please see video clip on website. www.thepartymaniacs.com

TICKLES THE

CLOWN Let my menagerie make your event truly special and fun! Exotic and Unusual Animals Balloon Sculpture • Face Painting Additional Characters Available

Marilyn Madsen

908-689-9392 www.ticklestheclown.net

Top Rated Music Shows for First thru 5th Birthdays Special Needs Parties Holiday Parties and More!

MusicToMyEars.com 908-874-5300

Party Maniacs KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTIES & MORE! We can bring it all!

Fast Paced Games Sand Art Arts & Crafts Clowns Characters Face Painting Balloon Sculpting Group Dances Make-up Parties DJ’s Magic Much More

Call 973-376-2211 www.thepartymaniacs.com

103

104

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

party planner

We Bring Nature to You!

PARTY ENTERTAINMENT

Specializing in reptile, snake and animal birthday parties and educational events that generate excitement about wildlife and nature.

Ritzy Glitzy Girlz Club On-the-Go Glam Spa 646-696-4596. Ritzy Glitzy Girlz Club is the best "On-theGo" Glam Spa for girls in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut. We host fabulous birthday parties for girls ages 4-14. You can choose to be a Glam Princess, a StarStudded Diva, have a Pajama Jam, or simply indulge in our Ice Cream Dreamz Deluxe Spa Party for your special day. Our Glam Squad will bring all the glitz and glam to you, at your home or venue of choice. Our parties include manicures, pedicures, facials, hair, makeup, a pink carpet runway fashion show, photo shoot, dancing, games and prizes. We also have several add-ons and crafts to choose from. We guarantee this is a party the girls will love! Call us now to book your Ritzy Glitzy extravaganza. See you on the pink carpet! www.RitzyGlitzyGirlzClub.com

973-586-0444 • 201-230-2415 www.rizzosreptiles.com Rizzo@rizzosreptiles.com

Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery LLC

Be a Party Animal! Celebrate your birthday at

We supply party space, animals and fun.

You supply the children, decorations and food. For children ages 7—11 For more information and rates, call or email Ellen Goldberg egoldberg@sthuberts.org 973.377.8877 Ext. 234

973-586-0444, 201-230-2415, email: rizzo@rizzosreptiles.com. Our programs are about laughing and learning. Specializing in reptiles, including alligators, mammals and insects, too! We incorporate the adults and the children into our shows to make it fun for everyone. With our passion, excitement for nature, and the experience of a hands-on program, we will have you talking about reptiles for weeks. With a variety of programs we can accommodate any needs for birthday parties, day cares, schools, scouts, camps and special events. Rizzo’s Reptiles has also developed an interactive wildlife game which is used as part of the program and can be given as a party favor as well as an educational tool. www.rizzosreptiles.com

Soccer Party McLoughlin Sports, 908-533-3049. You provide the facility, we provide the coaching for an exciting, action-packed party for ages 4 to 5 by the experts from McLoughlin School of Soccer. www.mcloughlinsports.com

Tickles the Clown 908-689-9392. Let me and my menagerie of exotic and unusual animals make your event truly special and fun! Presenting a unique, high energy performance that

St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center Madison Shelter 575 Woodland Avenue Madison, NJ 07940 www.sthuberts.org www.joefischermagic.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

blends audience participation with skits, magic and live animals leaving everyone to believe there is magic in themselves. Wanda Wizard, seasonal characters, balloon sculpturing, magic and face painting available for all occasions. Free color brochure and references upon request. Additional characters available. www.ticklestheclown.net

105

Celebrate your child's important event with

imagination!

Uncle John’s Traveling Magical & Musical Puppet Show 908-508-9292. Uncle John’s puppet show follows a stand-up comedy format with heavy audience participation. His puppets constantly carry on a dialog with the audience. He invites the birthday child to assist with some classic magic tricks to open the show. He then performs his famous puppet show and follows it with a dance party using an iPod loaded with 3,500 songs. Uncle John uses a pulsating LED multi-colored light show to accompany his music. His high quality sound system with Bose speakers adds excitement and a concert hall realism not expected for a birthday party. www.unclejohnspuppets.com

Krafty Kidz brings art and learning together. Through age-appropriate projects, boys and girls create, learn and laugh. Children engage in unique craft projects based on seasonal themes. A variety of mediums are used in order to promote creativity.

United Soccer Academy United Soccer Academy, 732 563 2520. Have a soccer-mad child? Choose a soccer birthday party for an experience they will remember for years to come! United Soccer Academy will take care of everything, making it a hassle free, and relaxed experience for you. Our coaches travel to you or we can host the party at our facility. www.UnitedSoccerAcademy.com

PARTY SUPPLIES

Birthday Party Packages include unique craft project cusd Atomizable for your child supervision by Krafty Kidz d Full staff who will ensure your party is a success

C AT E R I N G

Marcello’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 268 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-4222, Fax 908-464-6363. Party catering specialists, offering traditional Italian cuisine, pizza, hot and cold subs.

d Goodie bags for all party goers d Pizza and drinks Email Melissa at

FA V O R S

Meyer’s Dolls Toys Hobbies 35 E. Northfield Rd., Livingston, 973-740-9400. See display ad and listing under Party Places.

Uncle John’s Traveling Magical & Musical Puppet Show MuPPET sTyLE PuPPETs

ENTERTAINMENT FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES, SCHOOLS & ORGANIZATIONS SCHOOL HEALTH & SAFETY PUPPET SHOWS

908-508-9292 www.unclejohnspuppets.com

kraftykidznj@gmail.com

for reservations and information.

106

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

ALL AROUND ENRICHMENT In addition to the listings below, see Educational Services for more academic enrichment opportunities. The Adult School & The Jointure Madison Civic Center, 28 Walnut St., Madison, 973-443-9222. Unique enrichment classes, trips and one-day workshops for adults are offered in spring and fall sessions. College prep and study skills classes for middle school students-adults. Class locations in Basking Ridge, Bridgewater, Chatham, Florham Park, Madison. Online courses are offered through www.ed2go.com/tas. www.theadultschool.org

The Baird Visual and Performing Arts The Baird, 5 Mead St., South Orange, 973-378-7754. Year round cultural programs include art, dance, theater and music for adults and children starting at 21⁄2 yrs. old. www.thebaird.org

County College of Morris College for Kids & Teens County College of Morris, 214 Center Grove Rd., Randolph, 973-328-5070. Technology, art and SAT prep classes are offered fall and spring semesters for children and teens. Summer programs are also offered. www.ccm.edu/cfk

Eldridge Overton Educational Programs 326 Route 22 West 8A, Green Brook, 732-903-1200. Education programs for students of all ages and skill levels. Academic camps, classes and tutoring. College for Kids Camp at Kean University and Raritan Valley Community College, beginning June 9th. Tutoring available online, at your home, school, local library, at our site, or a location of your choice. See display ad on page 184. www.aypacademy.com

Hunterdon County Adult Education 215 Rt. 31, Flemington, 908-788-1405. Fall and spring semesters offer adult enrichment and youth courses in theatre, arts, crafts, sports, science and SAT prep. www.hcesc.com

Ivy Clubhouse & Ivy Kids Calvary Episcopal Church, DeForest & Woodland Aves., Summit, 908-899-1338. Creative and interactive enrichment programs for preschool-8th grade. Ivy Clubhouse: Afterschool and Saturday clubs for grades 1-8 include robotics, video game creation, Minecraft, chess, math, investment, cooking, hip-hop dance, singing, 3-D crafts and photography clubs. Ivy Kidz: Early childhood enrichment for ages 2-7. Enrichment programs developed by gifted and talented teachers to enable young children to explore the sciences, arts, economics, world cultures and technology. See display ad on page 108. www.ivyclubhouse.com; www.ivykidz.com

JCC MetroWest School of the Arts Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3421. Classes for preschoolers through adults. Art, music, drama, dance and specialty workshops.

Learning Rx Chester, Cherry Hill, Marlboro, Short Hills, Warren locations. See display ad on page 186 and complete listing under Education Services. www.LearningRx.com

Madison Community House Classes Madison Community House, 25 Cook Ave., Madison, 973377-0244. Classes and one-day workshops offered after school Sept.-May in cooking, arts and crafts, dance, music and science. www.tmcmch.org

Mason Gross School of the Arts Extension Division, Rutgers University 81 George St., New Brunswick, 732-932-8618. Email: extension@masongross.rutgers.edu. Music, ballet, visual arts, summer camps and more for children from infancy through high school.

Middlesex Community School 300 Kennedy Dr., Middlesex, 732-317-6000 x20206. Nonprofit arm of Middlesex Borough Public Schools offers educational and recreational courses for children through adults each quarter and also features seasonal parent/child activities. www.middlesex.k12.nj.us, click on Community School.

Middletown Arts Center 36 Church St., Middletown, 732-706-4100. Children, teen and adult classes in art, music, dance and theatre; birthday parties; summer arts camps.

ART CLASSES YEAR-ROUND for Mom & Me, Pre-Schoolers, Children,Teens & Adults • Painting • Drawing • Sculpture • Printmaking Enroll at any time. Call for information & brochure. Barbara Gerson, M.A. 265 E. Main St. Somerville, NJ 08876 908-725-4490 www.art-4-all-inc.com

Morris Hills School of Adult and Continuing Education Morris Knolls High School, 50 Knoll Dr., Denville; Morris Hills High School, 520 W. Main St., Rockaway, 973-664-2296. Fall and spring semesters offer courses for children and adults in arts and crafts, dance, language, computers, cooking, finances, parenting, careers. www.mhcontinuingedu.com

Newark Museum Classes Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., Newark, 973-5966637. Classes for ages 4 to 18 and adults are inspired by the museum’s galleries of art and science.

Raritan Valley Community College Youth Programs Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd., North Branch, 908-526-1200, ext. 8404. Year round classes for ages 6-17 in computers, academics, enrichment, visual and performing arts, sciences, job skills, study skills, exam prep, sports and fitness. Daytime classes for homeschooled children.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

South Orange Maplewood Adult School 17 Parker Ave., Maplewood, 973-378-7620. Innovative courses open to adults and teens. Parent/child classes in science, cooking, and swimming. College for a Day; summer camps for kids. www.somadultschool.org.

Westfield Adult School 908-232-4050. Most classes held Mon. evenings at Westfield High School, 550 Dorian Rd., Westfield. Classes include adult enrichment and personal growth, SAT & PSAT prep and driver’s ed. www.westfieldadultschool.com

ART See listings under Enrichment – Crafts for additional creative art programs.

Art-4-All 265 E. Main St., Somerville, 908-725-4490. Year-round art classes for all ages — Mom & Me (ages 3-5), pre-schoolers, children, teens and adults. Students may enroll at any time for classes in painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking. Scout programs, also. Call for brochure. Barbara Gerson, M.A. Fine Arts/Education. www.art-4-all-inc.com

Art Journey Studio 20 Windy Hill Rd., Annandale, 908-752-8474. Art classes year round for ages 3 to adult • Drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, printmaking • Small classes • All levels • Kids summer art camps • Sibling discounts • Brochure • Call or email kcheifer@ymail.com • Kimberly Cheifer, artist, NJ certified K-12 art educator.

Art Project A collaboration between seventeen art museums from the United States, Europe, Russia and Google, the Art Project enables users to view more than 1,000 artworks online in extraordinary detail, learn about a work’s history and artist and tour museum galleries. www.googleartproject.com

107

sociation Morris County Art As rristown 10 Catherine Lane, Mo t CLASSES YEAR-ROUND AR FOR & WORKSHOPS tS CHILDREN & ADUL WINtER CLASSES

14 Start January 6, 20 SPRING CLASSES

Start April 7, 2014

Art Classes

(973) 267-1722net

mum. mcaastudio@opti

line at: View catalog on ssoc.org

countyarta year www.morris it entering our 77th A non-prof

#666

ART CLASSES • Exhibits • Workshops

SUMMER ART CAMPS

Arts Guild New Jersey 1670 Irving St., Rahway, 732-381-7511. Gallery and 8-week art classes for kids (7-11), teens (12-16) and adults are offered during winter, spring and fall months; week-long summer workshops for kids and teens; one-day Saturday workshops for adults. www.agnj.org

The Center for Contemporary Art 2020 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-234-2345. Exhibit gallery and year round classes in visual arts for adults and children of all ages and skill levels beginning at age 4. After school classes; workshops; teen programs; classes for children with special needs; summer art camps. www.ccabedminster.org

Creative Hands Art Studio and Atelier 14 Kings Rd., Madison, 908-604-0773. Classical and contemporary training in the fine arts—drawing, painting, cartooning, sculpture, ceramics and pottery wheel—with year ’round classes for ages 3 through adult. Students are taught by professional artists in small classes (10 to 12); use top quality, professional-grade art materials (included in class cost); and are provided an opportunity to develop their artistic vision while obtaining a firm foundation in the skills and joys of creating art. School-year classes once a week offered Mon. thru Sat. in 10-week sessions from Sept. thru mid-June.

The Center for Contemporary Art (908) 234-2345

www.ccabedminster.org 2020 Burnt Mills Rd. Bedminster, NJ 07921

108

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

109

enrichment Ivy Clubhouse & Ivy Kids

ART Creative Hands Art Studio and Atelier cont. Flexible, week-by-week summer program offered JuneAug. Fun art birthday party workshops and cartooning classes. Inquire about our homeschool programs. www.creativehandssignup.com Ongoing Homeschool Programs.

Hunterdon Art Museum 7 Lower Center St., Clinton, 908-735-8415. Gallery and exhibitions of contemporary art in a 19th century gristmill on the Raritan River. Year round classes for adults & children ages 4 and up, all skill levels. Concerts; outreach programs; art camps.

Hunterdon County Parks & Recreation 1020 Hwy. 31, Lebanon, 908-782-1158. Drawing and painting classes for children, preschool-age and up, teens and adults and Kidz Art program for home-schooled students.

Calvary Episcopal Church, DeForest & Woodland Aves., Summit, 908-899-1338. See listing under All Around Enrichment. www.ivyclubhouse.com; www.ivykidz.com

Livingston Arts Association 973-992-7749. Art classes for children, teens and adults in winter, spring and fall sessions by certified art teachers.

Morris County Art Association 10 Catherine Lane, Morristown, 973-267-1722. Year-round art classes and workshops for children and adults in our community. www.morriscountyartassoc.org

Morris Museum Studio Art Program 6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3740. Fine art classes for children, teens and adults — painting, drawing, mixed media and more. All skill levels welcome and encouraged; taught by professional artists. Weekly classes in fall, winter and spring; week-long children’s and teen sessions in summer. Visit website, www.morrismuseum.org, or email StudioArt@MorrisMuseum.org for more information.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey Fine Art Training At Its Best

Great Adult Classes Too!

draWiNG • PaiNTiNG sCuLPTurE • CarTOONiNG & POTTEry WHEEL

Art Classes & Workshops for Kids & Teens Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Comic Book Art, Collage, Fashion Illustration and more! Winter Semester begins January 6 Spring Semester begins April 7

Kids & Teens Art Camp

908.604.0773 Great School Year, Summer and Homeschool Programs

Art Camp begins July 7

Fun Birthday Workshops

A creative birthday is a happy one! Birthday Parties Week-by-week flexible art camp summer programs. Inquire about our Homeschool Programs

The Leader in Art Education for over a decade.

14 Kings Road • Madison www.creativehandsartstudio.com

68 Elm Street, Summit, NJ 908.273.9121

www.artcenternj.org

110

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment ART Newark Museum Studio Classes Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., Newark, 973-596-6637. Fine art classes are offered on Saturdays during fall and spring for all ages, from toddlers with parent to teens and adults.

National Gallery of Art www.nga.gov/kids/kids.htm. National Gallery of Art website offers interactive art activities and projects for kids.

1978 Maplewood Arts Center 1978 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, www.1978artscenter.org. Volunteer-organized, community center features art exhibitions, classes for children and adults, an artists forum and special events.

Roving Press Traveling Outreach Printmaking Council of New Jersey, 440 River Rd., Branchburg, 908-725-2110. The Roving Press offers printmaking programs including woodblock, silkscreen, papermaking and photography for all ages. One-hour, one-day or weeklong programs are instructed by professional artists. Limited scholarships available for schools. www.printnj.org

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey 68 Elm St., Summit, 908-273-9121. Art Classes and Workshops for Kids and Teens • Kids’ Art Camp (ages 5-12) • Summer Saturday Art Camp (ages 6-9) • Teen Art Camp (ages 13-15) • Portfolio Development Intensive (ages 16-18). Ceramics, digital photography, drawing, fashion design/illustration, jewelry, painting, sculpture and more! www.artcenternj.org Jul 7 Art Camp begins, eight one-week sessions.

Watchung Arts Center 18 Stirling Rd., Watchung Circle, Watchung, 908-753-0190. Classes in drawing and painting for children ages 6-12, performing arts for grades 3-12 and MusIQ Piano Lab for grades 2-5; summer camps. Memberships available.

The Zimmerli Art Museum Drawing Club Rutgers University (Tnpk. exit 9 to Rt. 18N), George and Hamilton Sts., New Brunswick, 732-932-7237, ext. 615. After school sessions for young artists ages 6-14.

COMPUTERS Gecko Kids Traveling Creative Computer Studio Cheryl@GeckoKids.com, 908-518-1998. A traveling program that is flexible enough to meet any school’s needs! Creative, fun and unique classes encourage creative intelligence, fine motor control and technical expertise. Students create their own books or movies right in the comfort of their own school! All work is done on our laptops with Gecko Kidstrained teachers. Contact us and we’ll contact your school. www.geckokids.com

Ivy Clubhouse & Ivy Kids Calvary Episcopal Church, DeForest & Woodland Aves., Summit, 908-899-1338. See display ad on page 108 and complete listing under All Around Enrichment. www.ivyclubhouse.com; www.ivykidz.com

COOKING Chef Carls Pizza 888-794-8540. Our award winning party lets your little chefs make their own pizza. Parties for schools, summer camps, special needs and fundraising. See listing under Party Entertainment. www.makeapizzaparty.com

Chef Central 240 Rt. 17N, Paramus, 201-576-0100; 45 S. Central Park Ave., Hartsdale, NY, 914-328-1376. Classes offered year ’round for all ages from 3 years to adults in each of its 15,000 sq. ft. culinary superstores. www.chefcentral.com.

Classic Thyme Cooking School 710 South Ave. West, Westfield, 908-232-5445. Cooking classes for adults and children, beginners to advanced. Learn new culinary techniques, have fun with friends, host special occasions. Everything from appetizers to desserts, Italian Boot Camp to Sushi. A favorite venue for corporate culinary teambuilding events. See display ad on page 130. www.classicthyme.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

111

Diamond Hill Montessori School

Home Depot Kids Workshops

105 Diamond Hill Rd., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-5051. See listing under Preschools.

Free how-to clinics for ages 6-12 with adult are held monthly. Advance registration required. Visit website, search "kids workshops" and enter zipcode for local information. www.homedepot.com

Kings Cooking Studio 778 Morris Tnpk., Short Hills, 973-258-4009; 450 Rt. 206, Bedminster, 908-719-4966. Classes and events year round for adults, teens, and young chefs beginning at age 3. www.kingsfoodmarkets.com

P.E.P. Club Kids Cuisine 908-451-9280. Cooking classes and birthday parties for children ages 3-8. Basic cooking skills are taught through a hands-on approach to cooking. Classes are held in several area locations. www.pepclub.info

ShopRite Culinary Workshops Rt. 28 E. (North Ave.), Garwood, 908-654-0803; 76 Central Ave., Clark, 732-381-2025; 3166 Rt. 22W, Branchburg, 908704-3378; Rt. 1 & Rt. 9 & St. Georges Ave., Woodbridge, 732636-3500. Culinary workshops for children 5-12 yrs. old with adult teach the basics of cooking and healthy eating. Adult and teen classes and birthday parties also offered. www.shoprite.com for workshop schedules and menus.

CRAFTS

Hunterdon County Parks & Recreation Arboretum, 1020 Hwy. 31, Lebanon, 908-782-1158. Beginner to advanced classes for children-adults in basketry, floral and holiday decorations and more.

Lowes Build and Grow Workshops Free Saturday workshops for kids. Visit website for project information. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com

Michael’s Stores 1-800-Michaels, www.michaels.com for local stores. Sat Saturday Kids Club, craft projects designed for ages 5-12.

DANCE Centenary College Conservatory of Dance 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908-979-0900 ext. 4. Dance training for ages 14 to adult in modern, ballet, jazz, tap, intro to dance, Chinese dance, adult yoga and pilates.

A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts

The Connection Dance Workshops

www.acmoore.com for store locator, workshop schedule and coupons.

The Connection for Women and Families, 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Free weekend dance workshops led by professionals are held throughout the year. Open to the public. Call to be placed on dance mailing list.

Color Me Mine – Summit 438 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-0248. A Paint-YourOwn ceramics studio. www.summit.colormemine.com

Fabricland 855 Rt. 22, North Plainfield, 908-755-4700, ext. 142. Sewing classes for adults and children; tours and sewing workshops for scouts; summer sewing camps available.

GlassRoots, Inc. 10 Bleeker St., Newark, 973-353-9555. Students learn to make functional and artistic objects including glass beads, mosaics and coasters, in workshops and camps. Working with glass and fire is dangerous, exciting and fascinating, but with control and the guidance of teachers, students can create beautiful things.

Celebrating 44 years

Enroll now Classes in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Acrobatics, Pointe Now offering Boys Hip Hop

Mommy and Me Dance Birthday Parties

The Do-Re-Mi School 93A S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, 973-758-1500. Little Ballerinas and Young Dancers for ages 3-6, Broadway Dance and Acting for age 7 and older, Latin Ballroom and Contemporary Dancing for age 8 through adult. www.doremi-nj.com

The Institute of Music for Children 780 Salem Ave., Elizabeth, 908-469-1211 x6. Office: Tue.-Fri. 10:30am–6:30pm. See listing under Music Enrichment. www.instituteofmusic.org

www.moderneacademie.com

Summer 2013 Dance Camps ages 3-7: Angelina Ballerina, Pinkalicious, American Girl, Princess Barbie

Workshops ages 7-12: Glee, Disney Dance Party, SYTYCD

Day & Evening Classes for all ages Advanced Workshops for the experienced dancer including Musical Theater, Contemporary & Dance Intensive

1820 East Second Street • Scotch Plains (Located in CVS shopping center) • 908-322-4249

112

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment DANCE Mason Gross School of the Arts Extension Division, Rutgers University 81 George St., New Brunswick, 732-932-8618. Email: extension@masongross.rutgers.edu. Music, ballet, visual arts, summer camps and more for children from infancy through high school.

The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts 1820 East Second Street, Scotch Plains, 908-322-4249. The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts has been fostering the love of dance for over forty years. Classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap, lyrical, acrobatics, pointe, and boys hip hop. Summer dance program includes camps, classes and workshops. www.moderneacademie.com

GIFTED & TALENTED Center for Talented Youth Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, 410-516-0337. Offers summer residential program and school year distance learning courses for students in grades 1-8. www.cty.jhu.edu

Gifted and Talented Institute 973-831-7779. Located at the Wilson School in Mountain Lakes, the G&T Institute is a Saturday morning academic program for motivated youngsters in grades K-8. With course offerings in science, math, law, writing, chess, public speaking, and many other areas, the G&T Institute is proud to be celebrating our 24th year of excellence in enrichment. www.gtinstitute.org

New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble

Gifted Child Society

East Brunswick, 732-923-0005. Pre-professional ballet company offers training in classical and modern ballet to serious dance students aged 9-18.

190 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201-444-6530. Non-profit organization offer Sat. morning workshops, summer programs, parent seminars and educator training. www.gifted.org

EXCHANGE STUDENTS AFS 800-AFS-INFO, www.afsusa.org. Host an international exchange student, be an exchange student or experience the world after high school with gap year programs for graduates and adults. 3-7 week summer programs depart June-July and provide opportunities to live with a host family, take language classes or perform community service.

EF Summer Homestay International students arrive every summer to experience American family life and improve their English. For information about becoming a host family, visit www.efhomestay.org.

FILMMAKING New Jersey Film School 755 Central Ave., New Providence, 908-508-0800.

Montclair State University Academically Gifted/Talented Youth Programs Montclair State University, Center for Continuing Education, Upper Montclair, 973-655-4104. Weekend and summer enrichment courses for gifted students in grades 1-11. POGO (Parents of Gifted Offspring) workshop series. Sept, Open House in Sept. for fall, Feb. for spring Feb semester.

National Society for the Gifted & Talented GARDENING Morris County Park Commission Branching Out Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 53 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 973-326-7627. Programs for ages 5-13 to learn about gardening, botany and horticulture. Workshops for preschoolers and adults are also offered throughout the year. Jul-Aug Summer Session.

Morris County Park Commission Garden Sprouts Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 53 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 973-326-7627. Ages 3-K are introduced to plants and nature through outdoor walks and crafts. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call for upcoming programs.

Morris County Park Junior Master Gardeners Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 53 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 973-631-5004. Hands-on horticulture program for grades 35 meets every other Wed. during the school year (Oct.-June). Participants become certified as Junior Master Gardeners.

www.nsgt.org. Non-profit organization created to help identify and encourage gifted and talented youth provides information about educational resources, gifted programs, scholarships and more.

NJ Association for Gifted Children PO Box 667, Mount Laurel, 856-273-7530. Volunteer organization hosts student, parent and educator workshops, annual conference, supports advocacy and maintains website providing information and resources for gifted children in New Jersey. www.njagc.org

Primoris Academy 120 Washington Ave., Westwood, 201-722-1000. New Jerseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only school solely for gifted and talented children. www.primorisacademy.org

Raritan Valley Community College 118 Lamington Rd., Branchburg, 908-526-1200 ext. 8404. Gifted and talented classes are offered during the summer for ages 8-12. Before- and after-care available.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

113

BILINGUAL BILINGU UA AL BUDS B

IImmersion mmersion P Preschool reschool aand n Elementary School Mandarin Chine Our immersion program ffos oste and creative problem-solving s global perspective. • Full-time Preschool and Elemen Grade 5 • Immersion Program in Mandari • Nurturing and challenging envir • Elementar y Integration Program

SSign ign u up p ffo for or aan nO Open pen H House ouse aatt b bilingualbuds.com ilinguallbuds.com Preschool | Day Scho Summer C

b bilingualbuds.com ilingualbuds.com | (908) 598-8088 SM

587 SSpringfield pringfield A Av Avenue, venue, SSummit ummit NJ 07901

Summer Institute for the Gifted River Plaza, 9 W. Broad St., Stamford, CT, 866-303-4744. Day and residential programs for gifted students ages 4-18. www.giftedstudy.org

ESPECIALLY FOR GIRLS The Girl Project The Connection for Women & Families, 79 Maple St.,

Summit, 908-273-4242. Workshops addressing topics of interest to girls ages 9-teen are offered during the school year and available for school or girl scout groups.

StarPower! Workshop Bergen Community College, Paramus, 201-447-2292. Interactive half-day workshop for tween girls and their parents is sponsored by the Junior League of Bergen County. Topics include self-esteem, cliques, cyber bullying, internet safety, peer pressure and conflict resolution. Visit website for upcoming date, www.thejlbc.org.

at The Wilson School, Mountain Lakes

Celebrating 24 Years of Excellence in Enrichment A Saturday morning academic program for the motivated youngster in grades K-8 Fall & Winter Sessions Available! For a free brochure detailing course offerings:

973-831-7779 • gtinstitute.org

114

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment LANGUAGE Bamboo Shoots 836 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-9550. Diversified full day Chinese program for preschoolers to 2nd grade where children acquire fluency in Mandarin, learn traditional Chinese characters, develop self-confidence, independence and become curious and lifelong learners. Well implemented academic and activity-based curriculum to foster children’s proficiency of Mandarin. Summer camps. bambooshootseducation.com

Bilingual Buds Immersion School for Children 587 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-8088. In addition to its well recognized preschool and elementary school, Bilingual Buds offers full immersion Mandarin Chinese or Spanish programs, including supplemental school for students ages 21⁄2-4, after school for ages 5-15, and summer camp for ages 21⁄2-10. Students receive highly individualized attention, challenge and support in a caring, small-school environment. Beginners welcome. See display ad on page 113. www.bilingualbuds.com

The Cottage School – Spanish & French 224 Main St., Gladstone, 908-719-9610. Spanish and French language immersion classes for Pre-K, Kindergarten, school age children, and adults. Spanish or French and Art summer camp for 3 to 12 yrs. old. See display ad and listing under Elementary & Secondary Schools. www.thecottageschool.net

L.E.A.R.N. associates Inc. (Language Education And Resource Network) 21 Church St., Liberty Corner, 908-626-9655 Email: learnlanguages@earthlink.net Learn a new language or continue studies in a language of your choice, or study other subjects at your own pace with an experienced tutor. Programs for ages 3 to adults are flexible, friendly, up-to-date, and offered in boutique-style center with bookstore and complimentary café. Off-site instruction also available. Languages offered include: Ancient Greek, Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish Swedish, and now also American Sign

Language &Tutoring Center LANGUAGE EDUCATION AND RESOURCE NETWORK An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.... Benjamin Franklin

908-626-9655 www.learnassociates.com learnlanguage@earthlink.net 12+ Languages & Tutoring in Core Subjects

Language (ASL). Other services include tutoring in math, science, language arts and study skills, as well as translation and interpreting. Introducing: Proctoring and support for independent high school programs. We welcome the home school community! www.learnassociates.com

Murray Hill Chinese School (MHCS) Located at Watchung Hills Regional High School, 108 Stirling Rd., Warren, 908-458-MHCS. Email: principal@mhcs-nj.org Chinese language (Mandarin) courses available for school age students from pre-K to High School and adults. Curriculum includes immersion classes (for Chinese-speaking students), bilingual classes (for students from English-speaking families) and cultural classes (for students interested in Chinese culture). MHCS is a non-profit organization established in 1983. Classes run 12:30-3:30pm on Saturdays September through June. www.mhcs-nj.org

Salta! Jump into Spanish Locations in Livingston, Edison and Princeton, 732-3712221. Engaging full day Spanish immersion program for preschoolers (ages 2-6) where children acquire fluency in Spanish, learn the Latin culture through cooking, dance, music and arts, develop self-confidence and long lasting friends, independence and become imaginative lifelong learners. Well established academic and thematic-based curriculum to foster children’s proficiency of Spanish. After School and Saturdays literacy program and full-day summer camps. www.saltajump.com

LEGOS/ROBOTICS Building Kidz 355 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston, 973-800-0100. Email: BuildingKidzNJ@gmail.com. Kidz learn computer programming, engineering and collaboration all while having LEGO fun! We offer LEGO Robotics classes, Jr. FLL and FLL Teams for grades K–6. Additional courses are designed to "Build" your child's mind: LEGO-Stop Motion, Science, Chess, Math, Computers and GIMP Animation. Our LEGO Bricks & Bots love to travel to your after-school enrichment! Pre-K, elementary and middle school options. www.BuildingKidzNJ.com

LEGO® BIRTHDAY PARTIES LEGO-themed games, teamwork and fun! Computers and Robotics are used at ALL parties! Building Bash for Preschoolers • WeDo Robotics for Grades K - 3 • MINDSTORMS for Grades 4 - 6

HANDS-ON ENRICHMENT LEGO Robotics • Computer Programming LEGO Stop-Motion • Engineering • Science GIMP Animation • Chess & Math options... All designed to “Build” your Child’s Mind!

355 Eisenhower Pkwy Livingston

973-800-0100 BuildingKidzNJ@gmail.com | www.BuildingKidzNJ.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

MUSIC Calderone School of Music Two locations: Riverwalk Plaza, 34 Ridgedale Ave., E. Hanover, 973-428-0405. 256 Morris Ave., Springfield, 973467-4688. Open Mon.-Sat. Est. 1975. Private lessons by certified experienced teachers specializing on each instrument. All instruments are taught. Kindermusik and Suzuki Strings Plus classes for 0-7 yr. olds. Summer Kindercamp available. www.calderoneschoolofmusic.net

Celebration Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choir Rehearsals at Cranford United Methodist Church, corner of Lincoln and Walnut, Cranford, 908-241-8200. Tuitionfree choir for children ages 9 and up is sponsored by the Celebration Singers adult choir. Auditions in Sept. and Jan.

The Do-Re-Mi School 93A S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, 973-758-1500. Music lessons in piano (with Russian-trained teachers), singing, violin, guitar & wind instruments. Bringing the joy of music and nurturing development of youth in NJ for 12 years. From preschool music and movement classes through preparation for music majors in college. Drop-out rate of piano students 810 times lower than national average. Convenient classes for

115

CALDERONE SCHOOL OF MUSIC NJ Registered Professional Development Provider

Established 1975 Certified Teachers

All Instruments for Every Age Kindermusik Classes for ages 18 mos. to 7 years College Prep Division Suzuki Strings Plus Program River Walk Plaza 34 Ridgedale Ave. East Hanover, NJ 07936 (973) 428-0405

256 Morris Ave. Springfield, NJ 07081 (973) 467-4688

www.CalderoneSchoolofMusic.net siblings at the same time without compromising quality. Optional performance opportunities from low-pressure music parties to competition winnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; recitals in Carnegie Hall. See display ad on page 116. www.doremi-nj.com

www.kidsguidenj.com More info is just a mouse click away!

Murray Hill Chinese School Established 1983

Celebrating Over 30 years of Teaching Excellence!

www.mhcs-nj.org

Murray Hill Chinese School has more than 30 years of history in providing children and adults the opportunities to immerse in Chinese language and Chinese culture.

Language Programs 25 Language Classes 1. Traditional Language Classes Classes: Pre-K to 10th Grade 2. Youth Bilingual Classes Classes: Pre-K to 8th grade 3. Adult Bilingual Classes Courses available: Level I to III

Hours: Saturdays Language classes: 12:30-2:30pm Culture classes: 2:30-3:30pm

Cultural Programs 20+ Cultural Classes

Culture Platter (age 5+) Arts & Crafts (age 9+) Origami (age 6+) Singing (age 3.5+) Drawing (age 6+) Chinese Painting & Calligraphy (age 9+) Chinese Chess (age 7+) Chinese Kung Fu (age 8+) Chinese Yo Yo (age 8+) Basketball (age 10+) Table Tennis (age 7+) Adult Culture Classes: Tai Chi; Chinese Painting; Zumba; Floral Arrangement; Basketball; Volleyball

Location: Watchung Hills Regional High School, North Building 108 Stirling Road, Warren, NJ 07059 2014-2015 Pre-Registration dates are 5/3/14 (OPEN HOUSE) and 5/10/14 12:30-2:30pm Questions or inquiries, please email the school at principal@mhcs-nj.org

116

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

MUSIC & THE ARTS â&#x20AC;˘ Piano

(with Russian trained teachers)

â&#x20AC;˘ Singing â&#x20AC;˘ Violin â&#x20AC;˘ Guitar â&#x20AC;˘ Woodwinds Art â&#x20AC;˘ Dance & Acting â&#x20AC;˘ Chess Math & Logic â&#x20AC;˘ Krav Maga Summer Camps

enrichment MUSIC Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts 1790 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-464-5928. A full service music store specializing in teaching students of all ages. Year-round private lessons by first-class instructors in all instruments. Group classes offered: dance, musical theater, voice, drama and more. Summer camps in musical theater, jazz, rock, dance and drama. Band and orchestra instruments for rental or purchase. Expert instrument repair. Sheet music, lesson books and music accessories. Birthday parties in bright, spacious studios. www.elefantemusic.com

The Institute of Music for Children

973-758-1500

93A S. Livingston Ave Livingston, NJ 07039

www.doremi-nj.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Camp for ages 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;16 beginning June 30th. Our vision is to create H.A.R.M.O.N.Yâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Helping Achieve Responsible Motivated Optimistic Neighborhood Youth by providing in-depth arts experiences. www.instituteofmusic.org

Lakeland Youth Symphony PO Box 173, Parsippany, 07054, 973-402-6010. String students in grades 1-12 develop orchestral techniques, musicianship, and knowledge of string orchestra literature. Program runs Sept.-July with rehearsals at the Parsippany Arts Center. Modified Suzuki violin program for ages 4-7.

The Institute of Music for Children Elizabeth, New Jersey

Year-Round, Affordable Group Classes and Private Lessons in the ARTS Piano â&#x20AC;˘ Guitar Voice â&#x20AC;˘ Dancing Acting â&#x20AC;˘ Drumming Filmmaking â&#x20AC;˘ Harp and more....

The Masterwork School of the Arts 973-887-1732. Offers the opportunity to begin study under professional guidance or to refine skills already developed, under artist teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in voice, piano, violin, harpsichord, organ, woodwinds, brass, harmonica, theory. David Randolph, Music Director. Beginners welcome.

Montclair State University Preparatory Center for the Arts Montclair State University, 1 Normal Ave., Montclair, 201-6554443. Private lessons on all instruments with class and ensemble opportunities and a full range of dance courses are offered for ages 21â &#x201E;2 and up.

Music TogetherÂŽ A joyous experience of research-based music and movement for children birth to 4 years with their parent/caregiver. Ten weekly 45 minute classes filled with songs, dances, percussion instrument play-alongs, lap songs, chants and rhymes. Call for brochure and free demo class. Tuition includes activity songbook, two CDs and parent guide. â&#x20AC;˘ Basking Ridge, Warren, 908-656-0129 & Morristown â&#x20AC;˘ Scotch Plains, Westfield, Cranford & Madison 908-822-9400 â&#x20AC;˘ Summit & Chatham 973-509-9787 â&#x20AC;˘ Kinnelon, West Milford, Ringwood, Boonton, Denville, Sparta, Vernon 973-875-9300

New Jersey Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choir 973-655-8889. Auditions by appointment in Sept. for two choirs for boys and girls ages 8-17. After-school rehearsals at Union Congregational Church in Upper Montclair. No prior musical training required.

New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra 908-603-7691, email info@njio.org. Recognized nationally for its â&#x20AC;&#x153;intergenerational excellence,â&#x20AC;? NJIO brings together all ages and abilities in its three ensembles. No auditions. Students and seniors play together alongside professional mentors, learning and sharing the experience of musical performances. www.njio.org

5 Week Summer Camp begins June 30th!

www.instituteofmusic.org 908.469.1211 New Jersey Youth Symphony 570 Central Ave., Murray Hill, 908-771-5544. Three orchestral groups, two orchestral training ensembles, flute choir for grades 3-12 and choir for grades 6-12 rehearse and perform from Sept-May. Auditions held annually each June for the following year. Summer camp.

Paul Nazzaro Music Studio 137 Saint Paul St., Westfield, 908-232-3310. Piano lessons with music technology. From 5 1â &#x201E;2 yrs. through adult. Traditional lessons teaching variety of styles. Students receive professionally mastered CDs of their music, and a personal web page with their pieces on the Internet. Summer session available. Highly qualified staff. www.nazzaromusic.com

Scherzo Music Studio 415 Speedwell Ave., Morris Plains, 973-551-7000; 458 Springfield Ave., 2nd Floor, Summit, 908-522-0300. Email: mail@scherzostudio.com. Group and private music lessons for all ages, levels and abilities. Kindermusik groups for ages 0-7 with licensed Kindermusik educators. Summer camps and classes. Spring registration is now open. Enroll today. www.scherzostudio.com

3,$12 /(66216 )25 *5$'( 6&+22/ -81,25 +,*+ Â&#x2021; +,*+ 6&+22/ &2//(*( /(9(/ Â&#x2021; $'8/76

New Jersey Performing Arts Center Arts Training Programs 973-642-8989. Audition applications for Jazz for Teens (open to students ages 13-18), summer arts programs, arts training for ages 8-18. Music and performing arts scholarships for the following year are accepted beginning in November. Auditions are held in spring. http://artsed.njpac.org

New Jersey Youth Chorus 908-342-1830. Auditioned choral program for children grades 2-12 is composed of advanced, intermediate, and preparatory groups. Auditions are held in May/June with weekly rehearsals Sept.-June. www.njyouthchorus.org

117

ZZZ 1D]]DUR0XVLF FRP HPDLO 3DXO#1D]]DUR0XVLF FRP &DOO RU HPDLO IRU DQ LQIRUPDO JHW WRJHWKHU DQG D IUHH LQIRUPDWLRQ SDFNHW

Â&#x2021; 7UDGLWLRQDO OHVVRQV ZLWK D YDULHW\ RI VW\OHV FODVVLFDO MD]] EOXHV SRSXODU HWF

Â&#x2021; 6WXGHQWV UHFHLYH SURIHVVLRQDOO\ PDVWHUHG &'V RI WKHLU PXVLF

Â&#x2021; )ULHQGO\ ZDUP DWPRVSKHUH

Â&#x2021; 3HUVRQDO ZHE SDJH IRU HYHU\ VWXGHQW ZLWK WKHLU SLHFHV RQ WKH LQWHUQHW

Â&#x2021; 3LDQR SDUWLHV DQG UHFLWDOV

6DLQW 3DXO 6WUHHW Â&#x2021; :HVWILHOG Â&#x2021;

118

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment Wompy's World of Musical Play

MUSIC Springfield Community Children’s Chorus Parish House, First Presbyterian Church, 37 Church Mall, Springfield, 973-379-0012. High quality vocal experience open to area children in grades 3-6 through audition. Rehearsals held Wed. 4:30-6pm during the school year.

Classes in Warren, Westfield, Morristown and Summit, 908-279-3030. Educate. Entertain. Love. Wompy's is an interactive musical playtime that teaches through art, puppets and instruments. Our weekly classes are for children 6 months- 4 years old with caregiver. Each week is a new lesson, encouraging learning and fun in a caring, loving atmosphere. Try it free! www.wompys.com

Youth Orchestra of Essex County

The Masterwork School of the Arts David Randolph, Music Director offers the opportunity to begin study under professional guidance or to refine those skills already developed, under artist teachers — in voice, piano, violin, harpsichord, organ, woodwinds, brass, harmonica, theory. Beginners Welcome FOR REGISTRATION OR FURTHER INFORMATION, CALL (973) 887-1732

The Masterwork Music and Art Foundation

PO Box 1409, Maplewood, 07040. 973-378-7879. Auditions in Sept. for four ensembles including Overture Strings, a string training ensemble; chamber music ensemble; Junior Symphony; and the Essex County Symphony Orchestra. www.yoec.org

SAFETY Check the programming of your local Recreation Department and Y/JCC for any babysitting and safety courses offered for children and adolescents. Babysitting & Safety Workshops The Red Cross (www.njredcross.org) offers babysitting, CPR, Community First Aid & Safety, Lifeguard Training and other courses. Some chapters offer basic safety workshops to youth groups ages 6-13. Adult Schools and Ys/JCCs also may offer youth training courses. See listings under Education Services and Recreation Facilities for contact

Early Childhood Music & Movement Program I N FA N T

TODDLER

PRESCHOOL

W I T H PA R E N T S & C A R E G I V E R S

y Songs & Dances y Rhythm Instruments y Songbook and Two CDs y Rhymes y Parent Guidebook Call us for descriptive brochure and free demo class BASKING RIDGE, WARREN & MORRISTOWN www.funfamilymusic.com (908) 656-0129 Sandra Smith, Center Director musictogetherwithsandy@gmail.com SCOTCH PLAINS, WESTFIELD, CRANFORD, & MADISON www.MTofunion.com (908) 822-9400 Judy Wilson, Center Director

SUMMIT & CHATHAM www.musicinsummit.com (973) 509-9787 Leslie Lucas, Center Director KINNELON, WEST MILFORD, RINGWOOD, BOONTON, DENVILLE, SPARTA, VERNON www.singwithmenj.com (973) 875-9300 Debbie Disanza, Center Director

Art & logo design © 1992 Music Together LLC. Music Together was developed by the Center for Music and Young Children, Princeton, NJ. Music Together, CMYC, and Center for Music and Young Children are registered trademarks of Music Together LLC. For information on other Music Together locations visit www.musictogether.com or call 800-728-2692.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

information. Enter your zipcode on the Red Cross website to find your local chapter. www.redcross.org • American Red Cross of Central New Jersey Chapter, 707 Alexander Rd., Suite 101, Princeton, 609-951-8550. • American Red Cross of Northern New Jersey Chapter, 209 Fairfield Rd., Fairfield, 973-797-3300. • Greater Somerset County Chapter, 14 W. Cliff St., Somerville, 908-725-2217. • Millburn-Short Hills Chapter, 389 Millburn Ave., 973379-4198. • Montclair-Glen Ridge-Nutley Chapter, 63 Park St., Montclair, 973-746-1800. • New Jersey Crossroads Chapter, 695 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-273-2076. • Raritan Valley Chapter, 321 Elm St., 908-232-7090. • Sussex County Chapter, 93 Spring St., Newton, 973579-1600.

SCIENCE / TECHNOLOGY S ee Outdoor Education Centers for nature and environmental education programs. Buehler Challenger & Science Center Bergen Community College campus, Paramus Rd., Paramus, 201-262-0984. Hands-on educational and team-building experience designed to stimulate interest in math, science and technology for grades 5 & up. Groups work together in space mission simulations. Full- & mini-missions available for school, scout and organized groups as well as birthday missions, overnight camp-ins, one-day camps and summer camps for grades 3-12. School outreach for preschoolers and up. Check website for public tour dates. www.bcsc.org May Annual Family Science Morning, for ages 6 & up. Students in grade 5 and up have a chance to participate in a simulated mini space mission. Reservations required, beginning in Jan.

Building Kidz 355 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston, 973-800-0100. Email: BuildingKidzNJ@gmail.com. Kidz learn computer programming, engineering and collaboration all while having LEGO fun! We offer LEGO Robotics classes, Jr. FLL and FLL Teams for grades K–6. Additional courses are designed to "Build" your child's mind: LEGO-Stop Motion, Science, Chess, Math, Computers and GIMP Animation. Our LEGO Bricks & Bots love to travel to your after-school enrichment! Pre-K, elementary and middle school options. www.BuildingKidzNJ.com

119

THEATRE Aspire Performing Arts Company Northern New Jersey/Morris County, 201-220-4933. Email: aspirepac@gmail.com. A professional arts experience in a friendly atmosphere is offered year-round for ages 7 and up. Full-length productions, educational workshops and master classes taught by Broadway professionals help foster self-confidence, enhance communication and teamwork skills, and promote artistic expression. See how we can help your child shine! www.aspirepac.com

Brundage Park Playhouse Carrell Rd., Randolph, 973-989-7092. Youth theater and improvisational comedy classes. Auditions for summer workshop for experienced teens ages 13-17 held in Mar.

Centenary Young Performers Workshop 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908-979-0900. Professional theater training open to beginning-advanced performers ages 8-18. 15-week fall, spring and intensive 5-week summer sessions culminate with a 10-day Festival of Shows.

Circus Place 6 Jill Court, Bldg. 23, Hillsborough, 908-829-3784. Offering exciting classes in circus skills, aerial arts including trapeze and silks, juggling, stilt walking, unicycle, acrobatics, tot programs, magic, birthday parties and more. Summer Camps available. www.thecircusplace.com

Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre The Oakes Center, 120 Morris Ave., Summit, 908-378-7754, ext. 2228. Professional non-profit theater offers an internship program for high school and college students and a summer Teen Actors Conservatory.

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts 1790 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-464-5928. Yearround and summer theater arts programs include classes in dance, musical theater, voice, puppetry, performance workshop, audition preparation and audition workshop. Expert professional instructors. Training blends solid stage technique with a nurturing, creative environment. Classes available for ages 3 through 18. www.elefantemusic.com

Essex Youth Theater In residence at The Studio Playhouse, Upper Montclair, 973746-3303. Fall, spring and summer sessions of classes in theater arts for ages 4-12.

Growing Stage Creative Drama Classes The Palace Theatre, Rt. 183, Netcong, 973-347-4946. Theater arts classes for grades K-teen, modern jazz dance troupe for grades 4-adult, summer camp & intern program.

The Institute of Music for Children 780 Salem Ave., Elizabeth, 908-469-1211 x6. Office: Tue.-Fri. 10:30am–6:30pm. See listing under Music Enrichment. www.instituteofmusic.org

TryScience.org

Kelsey Theatre Youth Programs

Supported by more than 400 science centers worldwide, TryScience.org encourages science education through games, activities and experiments.

Mercer Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor, 609-570-3566. 10-week sessions of performing arts workshops for grades K-12 Sat. mornings in fall and spring.

Kids Guide NJ

555 Valley Rd., West Orange, 973-395-5551. Creative drama classes for ages 4- college-age, creative writing for children and adults, and playwrighting workshops for adults. www.lunastage.org

Luna Stage

120

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment THEATRE Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South St., Morristown, 973-539-0345 ext. 6582. Performance-based theatrical training program for students ages 5-18.

McCarter Theatre 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-6510. Fall, spring and year-long training classes for children in grades K-12. Registration in Aug. for First Stage, a year-long experience in creating, producing and presenting a full-length play.

The Theater Project Classroom in Maplewood/Cranford Burgdorff Center, 10 Durand Rd., Maplewood; Cranford location, 973-763-4029. Puppetry–juggling–improvisation–Glee! A unique menu of alternative performance classes to build skills and confidence in kids grades 4-9. The summer musical theater program is for elementary through high school students. www.thetheaterproject.org

Tri-State Actors Theater Crescent Theater, Main St., Sussex, 973-875-2950. Offers acting classes for children ages 6-12, teens and adults.

Villagers Theatre Arts Program Villagers Theatre, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset, 732-873-2710. School year and summer theater arts program for ages 6-18 offers instruction and experience in acting, dance, movement, vocal training, music and production.

GROUP & SCHOOL OUTREACH

New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts 593 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, 973-566-9700. Comprehensive theater arts training program for ages 6-18. www.njactors.org

New Jersey Youth Theatre (NJYT) 908-233-3200. NJYT offers professional classes in drama, musical theater, voice and dance from Oct.-mid-May annually for students (ages 8-18) and intensive summer performance experience. www.njyouththeatre.org.

The listings below are ideal outreach programs for school, camp, scout, home school organizations and community groups. In addition, group enrichment activities can be found under many “Activity” categories listed in the Table of Contents; in particular, see the Historic Sites, Museums, The Arts, Outdoor Education Centers, Party /Special Event Entertainment and Enrichment categories.

Paper Mill Playhouse Theatre School Brookside Drive, Millburn, 973-376-3636, ext. 2626. Theater school offers classes for ages from four to adult. Summer Musical Theatre Conservatory offers rigorous study for gifted and talented performers ages 10-18.

Playwrights Theatre 28 Walnut St., PO Box 1295, Madison, 973-514-1787, ext. 21. A professional theater nationally renowned for its educational projects. Drama and writing classes/programming for students, schools, teachers, and community organizations. All offerings are presented in a non-competitive environment by experienced teaching artists who know how the process of creating art impacts all aspects of a person’s life. Private coaching is available. See display ad on page 122. www.ptnj.org.

Shakespeare Theatre Academy 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-845-6742. Teen and adult classes in classic theatre are taught by Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey artistic and educational staff and guest teaching artists. See Camps for information about summer Junior and Senior Corps. www.shakespearenj.org

Showkids Invitational (S.K.I.T.) Hunterdon County, 908-713-1222. Performing arts experience for ages 6-18 culminates in full productions with live orchestra at Voorhees High School in Glen Gardner. See Arts–Theatre.

Somerset County Vo-Tech Creative Arts Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School, N. Bridge St. & Vogt Dr., Bridgewater, 908-526-8900 x7126. Performing arts classes for ages 8-adult for fall and spring semesters. Somerset County high school students may participate, by audition, in the Gifted & Talented Performing Arts Program at SCVTHS free of charge.

ALL AROUND

4-H Enrichment Programs • Essex County 4-H 973-228-3785 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland essex.njaes.rutgers.edu • Hunterdon County 4-H 908-788-1340 6 Gaunt Pl., Bldg. 2, Flemington www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/depts/rutgers/rutgers.htm • Middlesex County 4-H 732-398-5261 42 Riva Ave., New Brunswick co.middlesex.nj.us/extensionservices/4hclubs.asp • Morris County 4-H 973-285-8300 County Bldg. 550, West Hanover Ave., Morristown morris.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h • Somerset County 4-H 908-526-6644 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater somerset.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h Enrichment programs available to any school in Somerset County. • Union County 4-H 908-654-9854 300 North Ave. East, Westfield 4-H programs available to youth groups to learn about trees, plants, animals, food and nutrition, and other topics. • Warren County 4-H 908-475-6502 165 County Rd. 519S, Belvidere warren4-h.org

ANIMALS/PETS

St. Hubert’s Humane Education Program 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, 973-377-8877. Group presentations on a variety of pet topics are available on- or offsite for children pre-K to grade 12.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Amazing Summers, Lifelong Friends

• • • • • • • • • •

MADISON

at Drew University

Traditional Summer Day Camp 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 and ample air-conditioned space Sports, Visual & Performing Arts, Outdoor Adventure & Red Cross Swim Instruction Hot Lunch & Transportation available Low Ratios with Mature Staff Flexible enrollment for 2-8 weeks Sibling discounts Visit us!

www.oasischildren.com

Simple & Fast Online Registration, Upcoming Info Sessions, Special Discounts, Camp Photos & More or call us at 800.317.1392 This camp is licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

121

122

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment GROUP & SCHOOL OUTREACH

COMPUTERS / TECHNOLOGY

Gecko Kids Traveling Computer Studio

ANIMALS/PETS

The Seeing Eye Morristown area, 973-539-4425, ext. 762. North Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first dog guide school offers free 2-hour tours on selected Mon. and Thurs. mornings at 10:15am. Children should be 9 and older, groups of more than 40 people cannot be accommodated.

Cheryl@GeckoKids.com, 908-518-1998. A traveling program that is flexible enough to meet any schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs! Creative, fun and unique classes encourage creative intelligence, fine motor control and technical expertise. Students create their own books or movies right in the comfort of their own school! All work is done on our laptops with Gecko Kidstrained teachers. Contact us and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll contact your school. www.geckokids.com

ARTS C R E AT I V E A R T S

Young Audiences of New Jersey 12 Roszel Rd., Suite B-102, Princeton, 609-243-9000. Not-forprofit arts-in-education organization links professional artists with schools, community centers, libraries and other youth service organizations. Performances, workshops and residencies are available in dance, theater, language arts, visual and media arts, and music. www.yanj.org

Roving Press Traveling Outreach Printmaking Council of New Jersey, 440 River Rd., Branchburg, 908-725-2110. Printmaking programs include woodblock, silkscreen, papermaking and photography for all ages. One-hour, one-day or weeklong programs are instructed by professional artists. www.printnj.org

$ S F BU J W F " S U T " D B E F N Z B U 1 M B Z X S J H I U T 5 I F BU S F

GHYHORSLQJ WKH GUDPDWLF LPDJLQDWLRQ <HDU 5RXQG &ODVVHV IRU .LGV 7HHQV DQG $GXOWV

HPSRZHU

H[SUHVV

H[SORUH 63(&,$/ ',6&2817 )25 1(: 678'(176 *(7 2)) 7+( 5(*8/$5 35,&( 2) $ &/$66 Â&#x2021; 0HQWLRQ 7KLV &RGH .*:6

6800(5 7+($75( &$03 7ZR ZHHN +DOI 'D\ VHVVLRQV DQG )XOO 'D\ &DPS 9LVLW WKH ZHEVLWH IRU PRUH GHWDLOV 3OD\ZULJKWV 7KHDWUH Â´ :DOQXW 6WUHHW Â´ 32 %R[ Â´ 0DGLVRQ 1- Â´ ZZZ SWQM RUJ Â´ ;

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

ENVIRONMENT

123

R E TA I L

Sustainability Education Clearinghouse

Field Trip Factory

Green Education Foundation along with the Center for Green Schools launched this free online tool that provides K-12 teachers with the ability to upload, share and rate sustainability focused lessons. www.SEClearinghouse.org

800-987-6409. Handles bookings of free educational field trips at local stores including Petco, AC Moore, Michael’s, Stop ’n Shop, Wild Oats. www.fieldtripfactory.com

E S P E C I A L LY F O R G I R L S

The Girl Project The Connection for Women & Families, 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Workshops addressing topics of interest to girls ages 9-teen are offered during the school year and available for school or girl scout groups.

H E A LT H / S A F E T Y

ProKids Atlantic Health, 800-247-9580. Free health educational programs for grades 1-8 are offered off-site in the schools or onsite at the hospitals.

Uncle John’s Traveling Puppet Show 908-508-9292. Preschool Health and Safety Show presented in an interactive and engaging format by full-time professional puppeteer. www.unclejohnspuppets.com

LITERACY

Playwrights Theatre’s NJ Writers Project 28 Walnut St., PO Box 1295, Madison, 973-514-1787 ext. 21. Short-term and long-term hands-on workshops bring professional writers into school classrooms and community centers to guide students in an exploration of the creative process through writing and/or performance. Partial and full grants may be available for qualified schools. www.ptnj.org

Kings Supermarket www.kingsfoodmarkets.com. Check with your local store for in-store guided tours for preschoolers and up to learn about different food products, nutrition and safe food handling.

S C I E N C E / N AT U R E

Buehler Challenger & Science Center Bergen Community College campus, Paramus Rd., Paramus, 201-262-0984. Portable space shuttle for grades K-4; Starlab portable planetarium for grades K-8; EVA (Extra Vehicular Activity) program available for grades 5-8. www.bcsc.org

Field Station: Dinosaurs One Dinosaur Way, Secaucus, 973-748-4317 groups. Open April-Nov. Dinosaur expedition features life-sized animatronic dinosaur.

Great Swamp Watershed Association 36 Main St., Madison, 973-538-3500. Watershed Association staffers and volunteers bring 3-dimensional tabletop watershed model to classrooms to illustrate how human actions affect the water quality of lakes, rivers and streams.

New Jersey Fish, Game and Wildlife PERFORMING ARTS

Arts Horizons 1 Grand Ave., Suite 7, Englewood, 88-522-ARTS. Arts-ineducation organization serves schools in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area with live performances by professional artists, artist-in-residence programs and professional development for teachers. www.artshorizons.org

ArtsPower 39 South Fullerton Ave., Montclair, 888-278-7769. National touring company presents professional theater to grades pre-K-10. www.artspower.org

NJPAC Arts Education Programs 973-642-8989. Arts education programs in-school residency programs and professional development for educators. http://artsed.njpac.org

Pushcart Players 261 Bloomfield Ave., Suite A, Verona, 973-857-1115. Professional theater performances, creative drama and teacher workshops. www.pushcartplayers.org

Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey 973-845-6742. Offers Shakespeare Live!, a professional touring program for schools presenting abridged productions for grades 3-12; summer institute for teachers; semester-long interdisciplinary Shakespeare program; and in-school interactive workshops.

New Jersey Division of Fish, Game & Wildlife, 609-628-2436. Wildlife Conservation volunteers present slide programs focusing on the research, protection and management of endangered and threatened wildlife in New Jersey.

Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery LLC 973-586-0444, 201-230-2415, email: rizzo@rizzosreptiles.com. Specializing in reptile, snake and animal birthday parties and educational events that generate excitement about wildlife and nature. www.rizzosreptiles.com

CLUBS Adventure Guides/Princesses Parent-child scouting program for children entering K-6 grade and a parent or guardian. Groups, formed in Sept., participate in monthly meetings, special events and camping trips. • Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA 1340 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-889-8880. • Madison Area YMCA Family Center 111 Kings Rd., Madison, 973-822-YMCA. • Somerset Hills YMCA 140 Mt. Airy Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-7898 ext. 544. • Summit YMCA 67 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-3330. • Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, 908-233-2700.

124

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Build life-long friendships, learn new skills and have fun!

Since 1966

Enrichment Programs From athletics to academics, Hi-Hills offers a broad range of enrichment programs for all ages Kinder Camp A fun and nurturing environment for 3-5 year olds Traditional Day Camp Making friends and learning new skills for 6-11 year olds Teen Travel Fun day trips and week-long overnights for 12-14 year olds CIT Program Counselor-in-Training – Transition from camper to counselor for 14-15 year olds

Ages 3 - 15 • June 9 - August 22 in Gladstone, New Jersey Visit us at our 2014 Camp Open House Dates from 11am - 3pm:

Call for Information: 908-234-0067 • hihills.com

Sunday, February 2nd Sunday, April 6th Su

Sunday, March 2nd Sunday, May 18th

www.facebook.com/hihills com/hihills

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

125

enrichment CLUBS Boy Scouts of America Youth program designed for boys first grade and up to learn responsibilities of citizenship and enhance physical, mental and emotional growth. • Burlington County Council Serving Burlington County. Service center and scout shop at 693 Rancocas Rd., Westampton, 609-261-5850. • Central New Jersey Council Serving Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer, Warren and portions of Middlesex Counties. Service center and scout shop at 2245 US Hwy. 130, Suite 106, Dayton. Council info: 609-419-1600. Scout shop: 732-438-0600. • Jersey Shore Council 609-272-6820; 732-349-8093. Serving Atlantic, Ocean, Southeast Burlington Counties and Ocean City in Cape May County. Scout supply stores at 1518 Ridgeway Rd., Toms River, 732-473-1796; 6725 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp., 609-272-6820; 229 Brookville Rd., Barnegat, 609-698-2855. • Monmouth Council Serving Monmouth County. Service center and scout shop at 705 Ginesi Dr., Morganville, 732-536-2347. • Northern New Jersey Council Serving Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Passaic Counties. Service center and scout shop at 25 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland, 201-677-1000; shop 201-651-9743. • Patriots’ Path Council 973-765-9322. Serving Union, Morris, Sussex, Somerset and portions of Middlesex Counties. Scout shops at 222 Columbia Tnpk., Florham Park, 973-765-9322 ext. 233; 1130 Rt. 22W, Mountainside, 908-654-9191. • Southern New Jersey Council Serving Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem, Camden Counties. Scout shop at 4468 S. Main Rd., Millville, 856-327-1700 ext. 10.

Garden State Canoe Club 908-647-2088. Active group devoted to canoeing plans canoe trips almost every weekend year ’round. Meetings held 2nd Tues. of every month at Long Hill Twp. Library, 917 Valley Rd., Gillette, at 7:30pm.

Girl Scouts www.girlscouts.org. For girls ages 5-17. Troops meet regularly in schools, homes, community centers, houses of worship. There is always a need for adult volunteers to work with the girls and in a variety of support positions. • Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey 908-518-4400. Merges the Girl Scout Council of Greater Essex and Hudson Counties, Girl Scouts of Rolling Hills Council and Girl Scouts of Washington Rock Council. Serves girls in Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset, Union and Warren Counties. www.gshnj.org East Service Center: 120 Valley Rd., Montclair. West Service Center: 1171 Rt. 28, North Branch. Central Service Center: 201 Grove St. E., Westfield. • Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey 95 Newark Pompton Tnpk., Riverdale, 973-248-8200. Bergen, Morris, Passaic, Sussex Counties and the northern half of Warren County. www.gsnnj.org Paramus Service Center: 300 Forest Ave., 201-967-8100 Randolph Service Center: 1579 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph, 973-927-7722. • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Inc. 242 Adelphia Rd., Farmingdale, 732-938-5454. Monmouth County, Point Pleasant Borough, Point Pleasant Beach, Bay Head, Mantoloking and Brick. www.girlscoutsjs.org • Girl Scouts of Central & Southern New Jersey 40 Brace Rd., Cherry Hill, 856-795-1560; 800-582-7692. Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex and Salem counties and parts of Monmouth County. www.gscsnj.org East Brunswick Service Center: 108 Church Lane, E. Brunswick, 732-821-9090

4-H Club

Hunterdon County Canoe Club

No membership fee. Informal educational programming for grades 1-college by Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Individual clubs are guided by one or more adult leaders and concentrate on a particular area such as gardening, woodworking, small animals, horses, seeing eye puppies, food, karate, photography, etc. Adult volunteers always needed. www.njaes.rutgers.edu • Essex County 4-H 973-228-3785 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland essex.njaes.rutgers.edu • Hunterdon County 4-H 908-788-1340 6 Gaunt Pl., Bldg. 2, Flemington www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/depts/rutgers/rutgers.htm • Middlesex County 4-H 732-398-5261 42 Riva Ave., New Brunswick co.middlesex.nj.us/extensionservices/4hclubs.asp • Morris County 4-H 973-285-8300 County Bldg. 550, West Hanover Ave., Morristown morris.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h • Somerset County 4-H 908-526-6644 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater somerset.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h • Union County 4-H 908-654-9854 300 North Ave. East, Westfield • Warren County 4-H 908-475-6502 165 County Rd. 519S, Belvidere, warren4-h.org

908-782-1158, www.hunterdoncountycanoeclub.org. Monthly meetings 1st Tues. at 7:30pm at Echo Hill Environmental Center in Clinton Twp. Canoe trips are scheduled most weekends. Affiliated with the Hunterdon County Park system.

Seeing Eye Puppy Club Somerset County 4-H, 908-526-6644; Morris County 4-H, 973-285-8300. 4-H Club for grades 4-13 who have an interest in raising and loving a puppy for about 18 mos. before its formal training at the Seeing Eye (973-539-4425, www.seeingeye.org).

www.kidsguidenj.com More info is just a mouse click away! Use the quick and easy links on kidsguidenj.com Become a fan on facebook, Kids Guide NJ Follow us on twitter.com/kidsguidenj

126

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

enrichment VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

www.dosomething.org Through videos and step-by-step instructions, www. dosomething.org helps teens focus in on a cause, plan a project and take action. Check with your local United Way, Red Cross or Y, favorite museum, park or conservation organization for a variety of volunteer opportunities. See Teen Camps for summer volunteer programs.

Bergen County Volunteer Center 64 Passaic St., Hackensack, 201-489-9454. Search website by age and zipcode to locate volunteer opportunities at agencies that have requested help. www.bergenvolunteers.org

Bridges Outreach www.bridgesoutreach.org. Volunteers deliver bagged lunches, breakfast bags, clothing, toiletries and other necessities weekly to the homeless in New York City, Newark and Irvington.

December to low-income families and seniors from Summit, New Providence and Berkeley Heights referred by local social service agencies. Sponsored by the Summit Junior Fortnightly Club, Summit Women’s Club and Junior League of Summit and assisted by community group volunteers. Checks for the purchase of gifts can be made payable to SHIP, with Santa Claus Shop noted on the memo line, and mailed to Santa Claus Shop, PO Box 119, Summit, NJ 07901.

Somerset County Park Commission Volunteer Opportunities PO Box 5327, North Branch, 908-722-1200. Diverse opportunities for volunteers include work on wildlife and resource conservation projects; gardens, grounds, facilities management; instruction and special events.

Somerset County United Way Volunteer Center 1011 Rt. 22W, 2nd floor, Bridgewater, 908-725-6640. Volunteer opportunities are posted at somersetonline.org.

Trail Maintenance • Watchung Reservation, 452 New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3670. Volunteers help monthly. • Morris County Park Commission, 973-829-8257.

Color-A-Smile Program

TryCan

P.O. Box 1516, Morristown, NJ 07962-1516. 973-540-9222. Organization collects & distributes children’s drawings to nursing homes, hospitals & meals-on-wheels programs. Volunteers needed to supply drawings. www.colorasmile.org

Summit Recreation, 908-277-2932; Berkeley Heights Recreation, 908-464-0550 x13; New Providence Recreation, 908464-4430. TryCan trains volunteer teen mentors to provide one-on-one supervision to children with special needs participating in sports, leisure and social development programs.

Community FoodBank of New Jersey 31 Evans Terminal Rd., Hillside, 908-355-3663, ext. 221. Open for volunteers to help sort food or work on bulk mailings. Call for information on volunteer opportunities or to schedule a group tour. www.njfoodbank.org

The Connection for Women & Families 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Volunteers, ages 15 and up, needed to help run special needs classes or tutor newcomers to the U.S. in English as a second language.

Essex & West Hudson United Way 303 Washington St., Newark, 973-624-8300. The United Way of Essex and West Hudson Counties posts volunteer opportunities at uwewh.org.

Freecycle Network Nationwide online recycling movement connects someone who has good items to discard with someone who has a use for them (computers, sports equipment, furniture, appliances and more). To find a local group, visit www.freecycle.org.

Fresh Air Fund 800-367-0003. Become a host family to a New York City youngster ages 6-12 for a 2-week summer vacation.

Jersey Cares Partners with non-profit agencies to provide volunteer opportunities for individuals, families and corporate and community groups. www.jerseycares.org

Pedals for Progress 86 East Main St., High Bridge, NJ 08829, 908-638-4811. A non-profit New Jersey-based organization collects donated bicycles and ships them to developing nations and economically disadvantaged American children. Donations and collection and processing volunteers welcome.

Santa Claus Shop Complimentary holiday shopping is provided in early

Union County Parks and Community Renewal Individuals and groups are always needed to help maintain Union County Parks, 908-527-4231. Adopt-A-Park volunteers assist with after-school programs, summer programs and special events. Adopt-A-Trail volunteers make a twoyear commitment to adopt a trail or section of a trail and monitor and maintain it at least four times a year.

Union County Office of Volunteer Services 908-353-7171 ext. 105. Part of the United Way of Greater Union County, the Office of Volunteer Services publishes a directory of ongoing volunteer projects and posts opportunities on its website at www.uwguc.org, volunteer now.

Volunteermatch.org Enter zipcode and browse a database of local volunteer opportunites.

Volunteer Management Centers 280 W. Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973-538-7200. Provides information on volunteer opportunities in the Morris County area for youth, adults, families and groups. www.vmcnj.org

VolunteerNJ.org Created by the National Council of Jewish Women, the volunteer network refers volunteers to non-profit organizations in Essex, Morris and Union County areas. Volunteers can search opportunities online by interest, organization and interest. Click on link at bottom for opportunities for teens.

Volunteer Solutions http://volunteer.truist.com. Volunteer matching application helps volunteers ages 5 to adult, nonprofit agencies, corporations, event organizers and Volunteer Centers get connected.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Jan 19

In this edition of the Kids’ Guide you will find an extensive list of camps committed to providing an unforgettable summer experience for your children and teens. From half-day to full-day, teen travel to sleepaway, there is a camp for every age and interest. These camps welcome you to visit their websites (use the convenient links on kidsguidenj.com), call for info, plan a visit and attend an upcoming open house. Browse through the listings under the Enrichment and Sports categories, too, for additional summer opportunities that may not be included here. Recreation Departments often offer summer playgrounds and enrichment or sports options. In addition, some school districts hold summer enrichment sessions and school coaches frequently offer weeklong sports camps. Check the programs of local Ys and JCCs (see Ys/JCCs/Rec Facilities). They typically offer a wide selection of traditional day camps, special interest, sports and travel camps for all ages.

attn: camp directors! See the Group & School Programs under the Enrichment category, Party & Special Event Entertainment category and other Enrichment categories to book educational and entertaining programs for campers.

american camp association Founded in 1910, the American Camp Association accredits summer and fall camp programs for health, safety and program quality. Call or write to receive a free copy of the Guide to New Jersey Accredited Camps and for information about selecting the right camp for your child. American Camp Association, P.O. Box 672, Pittstown, NJ 08867, 908-238-9900, 877-488-CAMP, executive@acacampsnj.org. www.acacampsnj.org • www.acacamps.org www.campparents.org

CAMP FAIRS The NJ Camp Fairs Camps of all kinds: day, overnight, adventure, computer, foreign language, sports, special interest, special needs, travel and more. Meet Camp Directors, get door prizes, free giveaways from camps, free snacks, free DVDs of camps, free brochures, jobs available. Bring the family. Free parking. For a list of participating camps and directions for 2014 camp fairs: www.njcampfairs.com or call 732-469-8910. Jan 11 The Outlets at Bergen Town Center, 1 Bergen Town Center Dr. & Rte. 4, Paramus, 12-3pm. Jan 12 Bridgewater Marriott, 700 Commons Way, Bridgewater, 12-3pm. Jan 18 Quaker Bridge Mall, Rte. 1 North, Lawrenceville, 12-3pm.

Jan 25 Jan 26

127

Grand Summit Hotel, 570 Springfield Ave., Summit, 12-3pm The Shops at Riverside, Rte. 4, Hackensack, 12-3pm E. Hanover Ramada Inn & Conference Center, 130 Rte. 10 W., East Hanover, 12-3pm.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS See listings under Day Camps, Teen Camps and under the Education Services and Enrichment categories for more academic options for summer. Eldridge Overton Educational Programs 326 Route 22 West 8A, Green Brook, 732-903-1200. Education programs for students of all ages and skill levels. Academic camps, classes and tutoring. College for Kids Camp at Kean University and Raritan Valley Community College, beginning June 9th. Tutoring available online, at your home, school, local library, at our site, or a location of your choice. See display ad on page 184. www.aypacademy.com

Hunterdon Summer Enrichment Readington Middle School, 48 Readington Rd.; Holland Brook School, 52 Readington Rd., Whitehouse Station. Hands-on, fun enrichment courses for children entering grades 1-8. Open to students outside the community. Email summerenrichment@readington.k12.nj.us.

International Ivy Summer Enrichment Programs 908-899-1338, email info@iisummer.com. www.iisummer.com • Short Hills: The Pingry School, 50 Country Day Dr. • Chatham: Chatham Day School, 700 Shunpike Rd. • Caldwell: Caldwell College, 120 Bloomfield Ave. • Somerset: Rutgers Preparatory School, 1345 Easton Ave. • Far Hills: Far Hills Country Day School, 697 Minebrook Rd. • New Milford: Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County, 275 McKinley Ave. Mon.-Fri.: Full day 9-5; half-day 9-12:30 or 1:30-5pm. $780 per week for full day; $390 per week for half day. We create classes based on what kids would love to learn, like video game creation, robotics, Minecraft, performing arts, weird science. We design the classes to be hands-on where kids learn by doing. There are plenty of choices across many disciplines. Kids select the classes which fascinate them. www.iisummer.com

Newark Academy Summer Session 91 South Orange Ave., Livingston, 973-992-7000. Newark Academy is the premiere source in northern New Jersey for educational and athletic summer programming. The highly respected Summer Session provides students with advanced credit, enrichment and skill development courses. Also see listing under Multi-Sports Camps. See display ad on page 124. www.newarka.edu

128

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps ACADEMIC CAMPS Oak Knoll Academic Summer Session 44 Blackburn Rd., Summit, 908-522-8186. Oak Knoll’s coeducational summer academic program offers students entering kindergarten, and grades 4 through 12, opportunities to preview or review math topics, get a head start on SAT/ACT preparation and college essay writing, or simply develop their writing skills. www.oakknoll.org

Raritan Valley Community College 118 Lamington Rd., Branchburg, 908-526-1200 x8404. Summer programs for ages 4-17 include academics, computers, science, language, chess, fine and performing arts, gifted and talented and more. www.raritanval.edu/youth

Rutgers University Division of Continuous Education and Outreach 800-978-9596. Sponsored by Rutgers University, summer speed reading and reading/ study skills programs for adults

Kids’ Critter Camp

and children from age 4 and up are taught by professional instructors at various locations in northcentral New Jersey.

Rutgers Summer Youth Programs Rutgers Campus, New Brunswick, www.rutgers.edu. Academic summer programs include: Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics, a residential program for talented high school students, 732-445-2825; Douglass Science Institute Program Series, a residential program for girls entering 9th grade, 732-932-9197 ext. 10; SPARK for grades 5-9, www.spark.rutgers.edu; The Academy at Rutgers for Girls in Engineering & Technology (TARGET) introduces engineering to girls in grades 6-11, 732-445-2687 ext. 18.

ANIMAL CAMPS Dapple Hill Farm Pony Camp Minutes from I-78, within easy access of NY, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 201-725-0047. Debuting this summer, Dapple Hill Farm's annual Pony Camp features a unique experience with the addition of the Foal Program. 2013 campers will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to work with three foals alongside our professionals. DHF's Pony Camp is a top rated introductory camp for children and young teens. Campers will enjoy riding 5 days a week,while learning about horses, horse care and having fun! Traditional camp activities are paired with DHF's exclusive camper/pony teams bobbing for apples race, scavenger hunts and culminating at "The Wedding." A full week session is $500, Mon.-Wed.-Fri. $375. Visit our website for further details and other opportunities at DHF. See display ad on inside front cover.

St. Hubert’s Kids’ Critter Camp St. Hubert’s Animal Shelter, 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, 973-377-8877 ext. 234 for more information. Through exciting and educational activities, arts and crafts and games, campers will learn to understand and enjoy the relationship between people and companion animals. One week sessions from 9am-2pm for children in grades 2-6.

A week-long day camp held at our Madison shelter for children in grades 2-6 who love and want to learn about animals. Through fun and educational activities, campers will learn to understand and enjoy the relationship between people and companion animals. One week sessions from 9am-2pm for children in grades 2-6

Call / email for more information 973-377-8877 ext. 234 egoldberg@sthuberts.org Animal Camp • Kids Critter Camp

St. Hubert’s Animal Shelter 575 Woodland Avenue Madison, NJ 07940 973-377-8877 www.sthuberts.org

ART/CRAFT CAMPS Art Journey Studio 20 Windy Hill Rd., Annandale, 908-752-8474. Art classes year round for ages 3 to adult • Drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, printmaking • Small classes • All levels • Kids summer art camps • Sibling discounts • Brochure • Call or email kcheifer@ymail.com • Kimberly Cheifer, artist, NJ certified K-12 art educator.

Arts Guild New Jersey 1670 Irving St., Rahway, 732-381-7511. Week-long summer workshops for kids and teens. www.agnj.org

The Center for Contemporary Art 2020 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-234-2345. Summer art camp for ages 4-12 and teens is designed to stimulate creative expression through theme-based art projects and activities that change each week. All sessions are led by professional teaching artists. www.ccabedminster.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

129

Color Me Mine – Summit–Summer Camp

Hunterdon Art Museum

438 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-0248. Each week of our 9-week long summer camp we use various mediums to explore different themes. including Green Gardens, Africa and contemporary artists. We also have two weeks of clay hand building. We create many arts and crafts, clay and ceramics projects every week. Our well-qualified teachers teach specific techniques while encouraging each child’s individual creativity. Reservations and prepayment are required for all programs. For details, visit our website at www.summit.colormemine.com.

7 Lower Center St., Clinton, 908-735-8415 x16. Choose from over 60 camps for ages 4 to 14. All run five days and most are 3 hours each day. Morning and afternoon sessions are offered with supervised lunch available for a fee. To view brochure, visit www.hunterdonartmuseum.org.

The Cottage School Spanish or French and Art Program 224 Main St., Gladstone, 908-719-9610. Spanish or French and art summer program for 3 to 12 yrs. old. See display ad and listing under Preschools. www.thecottageschool.net

Creative Hands Art Studio and Atelier Summer Camp 14 Kings Rd., Madison, 908-604-0773. Flexible week-byweek summer art camp programs offered June–Aug. See ad under Art Enrichment. www.creativehandssignup.com

GlassRoots, Inc. 10 Bleeker St., Newark, 973-353-9555. Students learn to make a variety of functional and artistic objects including glass beads, mosaics and coasters, in a variety of workshops and camps. Working with glass and fire is dangerous, exciting and fascinating, but with control and the guidance of teachers, students can create beautiful things.

IncrediFlix Locations throughout New Jersey, 949-548-5424. We make incredible movies with kids! Whether your child likes stop motion animation, or creating live action movies, we’re here to guide them. And every child receives a DVD of their movie for memories that last a lifetime. www.incrediflix.com

Montclair Art Museum SummerArt Camp Montclair Art Museum, 3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair, 973746-5139. Two-week sessions for children ages 5-12 with morning, afternoon, and full day options.

Morris County Art Association 10 Catherine Lane, Morristown, 973-267-1722. Summer art classes and workshops for children and adults in our community. www.morriscountyartassoc.org

130

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

The Breene Family’s

A traditional day camp for 3–14 year olds

Where the fun never ends!

Celebrating our 52nd Season in 2014!

Half days for 3&4 year olds Teen trip program • 2–7 week sessions

Winter Open Houses and more! Visit campriverbend.com for more info.

Warren Township, NJ 1-888-THE-CAMP ART CAMPS Printmaking Council of New Jersey 220 River Rd., North Branch, 908-725-2110. Five day summer camps to educate children in the processes of printmaking and photography.

Watchung Arts Center Summer Art Camp 18 Stirling Rd., Watchung, 908-753-0190. 10am-3pm. Threeweek program offers children ages 6-12 the opportunity to acquire or improve artistic skills, learn new techniques, explore different media and get inspired by famous artists.

Summer Cooking Camps at Classic Thyme Cooking School Weekly Sessions for ages 4 and up late June through August r NEW s

p ou cing yard cam u d o intr school le edib

(908) 232-5445

?M[\ÅMTL 62

learn more at www.classicthyme.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

131

camps Zimmerli Art Camp

Camp Addye

Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University, 71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick, 732-932-7237 x615. Students ages 7-14 explore the galleries and learn new skills in drawing, painting, sculpture and more taught by professional artists.

Temple Beth Shalom, 193 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-992-6546. Director: Randi Cohen. Exciting themes each day, daily water activities, arts & crafts, games & sports, Oneg Shabbat and more for ages 2-4.

Camp Harmony COMPUTER CAMPS International Ivy Summer Enrichment Programs 908-899-1338, email info@iisummer.com. www.iisummer.com • Short Hills: The Pingry School, 50 Country Day Dr. • Chatham: Chatham Day School, 700 Shunpike Rd. • Caldwell: Caldwell College, 120 Bloomfield Ave. • Somerset: Rutgers Preparatory School, 1345 Easton Ave. • Far Hills: Far Hills Country Day School, 697 Minebrook Rd. • New Milford: Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County, 275 McKinley Ave. Mon.-Fri.: Full day 9-5; half-day 9-12:30 or 1:30-5pm. $780 per week for full day; $390 per week for half day. We create classes based on what kids would love to learn, like video game creation, robotics, Minecraft, performing arts, weird science. We design the classes to be hands-on where kids learn by doing. There are plenty of choices across many disciplines. Kids select the classes which fascinate them. www.iisummer.com

COOKING CAMPS Chef Central Summer Cooking Camp 240 Rt. 17N, Paramus, 201-576-0100; 45 S. Central Park Ave., Hartsdale, NY, 914-328-1376. Weekly camps for teens ages 11-17 meet Mon.-Fri. from 9am-1pm. For first-time campers, Camp I teaches sanitation, nutrition, kitchen safety, knife skills and basic cooking techniques. For returning campers, Camp II covers Asian, Pan American and Regional American cuisines in addition to more advanced baking. www.chefcentral.com

Classic Thyme Kids Cooking Camps 710 South Ave. West., Westfield, 908-232-5445. Cooking fun for ages 4 and up. Multiple, weekly day camps. Camps are held in the summer AND during school vacations througout the year. New this summer is our Edible Schoolyard. Students will plant, cultivate and harvest ingredients they will use for cooking and eating. A farm to table experience. Register online at www.classicthyme.com or call 908-232-5445. See display ad on page 130.

206 Mt. Horeb Rd., Warren, 800.UGA.BUGA. Camp Harmony and its staff dedicates itself to the mission of ensuring the safety and well-being of “every single child” while providing a fun, unique and creative learning experience that fosters unforgettable moments, lasting friendships, an unrivaled sense of belonging and lifelong memories—all to create the ultimate summer of their lives. www.campharmony.com

Camp Invention Led by educators at local schools, the Camp Invention program is a fun-filled, weeklong adventure in creativity that immerses children entering grades one through six in exciting investigations, experiments and engineering challenges that promote life skills essential to success in the 21st century. Locations throughout the Central and Northern New Jersey area with new adventures for 2014! Discounts are available; visit www.campinvention.org or call 800.968.4332 to register today.

Camp Primrose • Primrose School of Berkeley Heights 260 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-418-6225 www.primroseschools.com/schools/berkeley-heights • Primrose School of Florham Park 31 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park, 973-437-6789 www.primroseschools.com/schools/florham-park • Primrose School of Mountainside 1038 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-228-5589 www.primrosemountainside.com • Primrose School of Warren 117 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-822-9900 www.primrosewarren.com Passport to Adventure offers a new theme for explorers to enjoy every week. Activities, guest speakers and field trips are based on local attractions and resources. From the great outdoors to science and food fun, Camp Primrose has something for everyone. Customize your adventure by selecting specific camp weeks or join us for a whole summer of fun.

Where big ideas become the next big thing.

CULTURE CAMPS Camp Friendship New Jersey At Shrine of St. Joseph, Stirling, www.campfriendshipnj.org; karen@campfriendshipnj.org. Week-long culture camp for Korean born and Chinese born adoptees.

DAY CAMPS

Act A ct Now Now to Save Save Big. $25 oﬀ oﬀ thr through rough March M 28. Sign up at CAMPINVENTION.ORG Brought Br ought to your c community ommunity by local educator educators. s.

Bernardsville Recreation Day Camp Bernardsville locations, 908-766-2546. Six weeks of programs for children entering K-grade 4 cover many interests including horseback riding, science, art, crafts, and sports. Extended day available.

Locations throughout Locations thrroughout oughout Northern and Central Central New New Jersey. Jersey. In partnership with United States Patent and Tr Trademark Oﬃce, an Agency of the Department o off Commerce

132

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps DAY CAMPS Camp Riverbend 116 Hillcrest Rd., Warren, NJ 07059, 908-580-CAMP. info@campriverbend.com. Dates: June 30-August 15, 2014. Daily swimming lessons, full range of sports, creative activities and environmental programs, with a non-competitive approach, well-trained, mature staff, and lots of fun. For boys and girls, ages 3 to 14. See display ad on page 130. www.campriverbend.com

Jan 26, Feb 23, Mar 15, Apr 13, May 3 Open House, sample activities, meet counselors, tour grounds. 10am. RSVP required.

June 30-August 15 2014 Camp Dates.

Congregation Beth El Summer Fun Camp 222 Irvington Ave., South Orange, 973-763-0113. 2, 3 or 4 days a week; 1 to 7 weeks of summer fun. Programs for ages 2-5. Water play, arts and crafts, music, outdoor play, stories and much more.

The Connection for Women and Families 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Weekly day camps for ages 3 and up. Activities include swimming lessons, performing arts, crafts, outdoor play and field trips. Sports camps and gymnastics camps. Before- and after-care. www.theconnectiononline.org

County College of Morris College for Kids & Teens Camps 214 Center Grove Rd., Randolph, 973-328-5072. Week long programs in July and Aug. for grades 3-12.

Dapple Hill Farm Pony Camp Minutes from I-78, within easy access of NY, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 201-725-0047. See listing under Horseback Riding Camps and display ad on inside front cover.

Day Camp Sunshine 3575 Valley Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-647-9624. Safe and nurturing Christian environment offers summer fun at an affordable price with full day hours. Experienced, mature staff. Programs for Pre-K to age 15. Swimming, ropes course, field trips and a variety of electives. www.daycampsunshine.org.

The Early School of Temple B’nai Abraham Summer Camp 300 E. Northfield Rd., P.O. Box 46, Livingston, 973-9947016. See display ad and listing under Preschools. www.tbanj.org/the-early-school

Girl Scout Camps Open to all girls, non-girl scouts welcome. www.girlscouts.org Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey 908-518-4400, www.gshnj.org • Camp Lou Henry Hoover, Swartswood Lake in Sussex County, sleepaway camp for girls entering grades 1-12. • Day Camp at the OVAL, South Mountain Reservation in Essex County, for girls entering grades 1-10. • Day Camp at Camp Dewitt, Hillsborough in Somerset County, for girls entering grades 1-10. Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore 732-938-5454, www.girlsscoutsjs.org • Camp Sacajawea Day Camp in Howell Twp. for ages 4 through high school.

Girl Scout Council of Northern NJ 973-248-8200, www.gsnnj.org • Jockey Hollow Day Camp for ages 5-14, Mendham Twp. • Lake Rickabear Day Camp for grades 1-12, Kinnelon. • Camp Glen Spey, sleepaway camp in Glen Spey, NY. Girl Scouts of Central & Southern NJ 800-582-7692, 856-795-1560, www.gscsnj.org

Greater Morristown YMCA Backyard Kids 79 Horsehill Rd., Cedar Knolls, 973-267-0704. Building strong, bright futures all summer long. Ages 3-16. 8am-6pm June 23Aug. 22. Full and partial weeks available. Safe, affordable and fun. See display ad on page 145. www.morristownymca.org

Hedwig Gruenewald Early Childhood Center of Congregation B’nai Israel 160 Millburn Ave., Millburn, 973-379-4040. We offer a seven week camp for 2 to 4 year olds. Activities include water play, arts and crafts, enrichment specialists, cooking, music, and use of our outdoor playgrounds. See ad and listing under Preschool & Kindergarten.

Hi Hills Day Camp 25 St. Bernard’s Rd., Gladstone, 908-234-0067. Email info@hihills.com. Happiness and fun in a nurturing and supporting environment, ages 3-15 years, ACA accredited, 77-acre campus, incredible facilities, flexible scheduling, extensive range of programs, transportation and lunch included. Established 1966. Follow us on facebook, www.facebook.com/hihills, or twitter, www.twitter.com/ hihillscamp. See display ad on page 124.

Hunterdon County Parks & Recreation 908-782-1158. Full- and half-day week-long nature camps for grades K-9 in theater, art, music, sports and nature.

JCC Camp Ruach Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center, 775 Talamini Rd. (conveniently located off Rt. 202-206), Bridgewater, 908-725-6994 x264, Fax: 908-725-9753. Email: LPaniccia@ssbjcc.org. Website: www.ssbjcc.org/camp Camp Season: June 23-Aug. 15. Located on 14 acres with programs for campers ages 15 months through 9th grade. Busing included. Lunches available. Camp Ruach offers an eight week program with a four week minimum; a ninth week is available for post camp. Sports, swim (indoor and outdoor pools), low and high ropes course, karate, theater, art, cooking, dance, tennis, nature, game room, mini-golf, music, archery and so much more! Preschool and Kindergarten campers have half and full-day options. 4th-6th grade programs consist of three days onsite and two days of offsite trips per week. Road Rulz Teen Travel. LIT (Leadership in Training) for Grade 8 & 9. Special Post-Camp Week Aug. 18-22 for ages 3-Grade 6. Specialty basketball camp with On the Court X-perience. Upcoming Special Events Mar 9 Purim Carnival. Mar 16 Mah Jongg Tournament. May 4 Lag B’Omer Maccabi Games. Jun 9 Annual Golf Outing (Raritan Valley Country Club). Jun 19 Mah Jongg Tournament. Jun 23 First Day of JCC Camp Ruach.

go to Kidsguidenj.com for quick and easy links to camp websites!

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

$750

OFF

NEW Campers Receive

8-Week Enrollment

Spend your summer where the heart is. Transportation and lunch provided

CContact ontact Us camps@jccmetrowest.org camps@jccmetrowest.org | www www.cdr.jccmetrowest.org .cdr.jccmetrowest.org Jewish Community Center of MetroWest New Jersey

973-929-2901 973-929-2901

133

134

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps DAY CAMPS JCC MetroWest Camp Deeny Riback 208 Flanders-Netcong Rd., Flanders, 973-929-2901. Email: camps@jccmetrowest.org. Thirty-five acres including 3 heated pools and over 30 activity areas: arts, archery, ropes course, athletics, boating, Maccabiah, special events, overnights, trips, Shabbat program, leadership training program and more for ages 31⁄2-grade 10. Transportation and kosher lunch included. www.cdr.jccmetrowest.org

JCC MetroWest Early Childhood Camps Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3479. Email: smartin@jccmetrowest.org. Camps for 18 months-age 5 opens the world of camping to your child, yet their summer “world” is close to home.

JCC MetroWest Exploration Camps Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-929-2901. Email: camps@jccmetrowest.org. Explore all 8 weeks of camp or one week offerings for

every interest: Legos, cooking, science, crafts and more. Camp hours are 9am-4pm, with extended day available from 8am-6pm.

Kean University Summer Camps Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave., Union. Athletics, art, theatre and academic camps for ages 6-18. Visit website for details. www.kean.edu/summercamps

Kent Place School Summer Camp 42 Norwood Ave., Summit, 908-273-0900 ext. 297. Coeducational program offering traditional day camps, sports clinics and enrichment to campers ages 3-15, two special camps for middle school students, a summer academy, CIT program and extended hours. Our 26-acre campus offers regulation turf playing fields, tennis courts, an arts center, air conditioned classrooms and dining hall and modern computer labs. Visit our website for more information and “like” us on Facebook. www.kentplace.org/summercamp Jun 9-Aug 22 2014 Camp Dates.

Kinderprep 812 South Ave., Westfield, 908-317-6900, email: kinderprep95@aol.com. Directors: Lara Pallant and Jennifer Kelly. Full day summer camp for both preschool and grades K-2 from 9am-3pm with extended hours available from 7:30am to 6pm. All camp activities follow a summer theme with special days and visitors planned. Older campers may participate in field trips. All campers may participate in extra-curricular activities such as pottery, cooking, Spanish and more. Register for one or both sessions. See ad and listing under Preschools. www.kinderprepofwestfield.com

Mendham Country Day School 204 Morristown Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-3323. Summer camp programs available. Call today. See display ad and listing under Schools.

Morris County Camp Sunrise Lake Sunrise Lake, Lewis Morris Park, Morristown, 973-326-7616. One-week sessions for ages 5-13 offer daily swimming, paddle boats, guided hikes, crafts and organized games.

Morris County Junior Police Academy Morris County Park Police Headquarters, 300 Mendham Rd., Morris Twp., 973-326-7632. Week-long camp for girls and boys 11-15 gives campers a hands-on experience in the training and practice of a police officer.

Morristown-Beard Day Camp 70 Whippany Rd., Morristown, 973-539-3032 ext. 569. State licensed facility, located on a beautiful 22-acre campus, offers a traditional day camp as well as specialty camps including arts and crafts, mountain biking, world languages, history adventures, math skills, writing workshop, teenxtreme, college essay, graphic design, digital film editing, strength and conditioning, musical theatre boot camp and sports clinics. See display ad on page 134. http://summer.mbs.net

Oak Knoll Summer Adventures 44 Blackburn Rd., Summit, 908-522-8186. Ready for a summer adventure? From June 17– August 12, 2014, Summer Adventures at Oak Knoll offers excitement and fun for children ages 3-16. We offer a variety of activities including swim-

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

AT O A

135

K KNOLL

June 17 August 12, 2014

Boys & Girls Ages 3-16 Sports, Arts, Enrichment, and More! Weekly Registration Available

www.oakknoll.org/summer

Mini Camp...Summer Adventures...Academic Summer Session Call 908-522-8186 or e-mail adventures@oakknoll.org OAK KNOLL SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD 44 BLACKBURN ROAD, SUMMIT ming, fencing, cooking, sports, arts, and more! Age-appropriate divisions offer enriching and creative opportunities for playful learning. Head counselors are certified teachers, and a registered nurse is in attendance every day. All campers receive a nutritious lunch and snack. We create an environment where your child can make new friends while creating lasting memories. Summer Adventures is a great place for children to spend all or part of their summer. www.oakknoll.org

Oasis Summer Day Camp Madison, NJ at Drew University Drew University, 36 Madison Ave, Madison, oasischildren.com 1-800-317-1392. Oasis Madison is open to boys and girls, ages 3-11. Campers can boost their creative energies in performing art classes such as dance and drama and tap into their athletic side with various sports activities and outdoor adventure classes. Children enjoy a traditional day camp experience in a safe, nurturing environment. Our popular Teen Travel Program for ages 12-14 offers an exciting blend of fun and educational field trips as well as community service projects. See display ad on page 121.

Randolph Summer Ironia School, 303 Dover Chester Rd., Randolph, 973361-0808. Open to non-residents. Day camp for children in grades 2-5 features art, nature, science and technology activities and field trips. Operated by Randolph Township Schools Community School.

Raritan Valley Community College Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd., North Branch, 908-526-1200, ext. 8404. Visual and performing arts, computer, languages, science, gifted and talented and sports camps for ages 6-17. Before and after care.

S.E.E. Camp (Summer Excitement Experience) Mountain Lakes & Summit locations, 973-831-7779. Camp hours 9am-4pm; extended care 7:30-9am and 4-5:45pm. $695/ two week session, $1,390 four weeks in July. S.E.E. Camp offers above-average students in grades 1-8 a variety of intriguing experiences. Campers delve into science and STEM-related projects, re-create the fine and performing arts as well as take part in sports and recreational activities such as fencing, yoga, and swimming daily. Curriculum-related field trips included. A 10:1 camper-staff ratio. www.seecamps.com

Your Search Is Over... Fun & Exploration in Science, STEM, Theater, Art & Sports

Summer Excitement Experience June 30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;July 25 For Above Average Students Grades 1-8 Choose from 2 or 4 Weeks of Day Camp from 2 Campuses: Mountain Lakes: The Wilson School Summit: Oratory Prep

Call for our Open House Dates

973-831-7779 www.seecamps.com

136

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps DAY CAMPS

GIFTED & TALENTED CAMPS

Somerset County 4-H Summer Camp

Center for Talented Youth

4-H Office, 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater, 908-526-6644. Call for information about this year’s summer program.

Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, 410-516-0337. Offers summer residential program and school year distance learning courses for students in grades 1-8. www.cty.jhu.edu

South Orange Maplewood Community Summer Program 973-378-7620. Creative and performing arts, academic enrichment, sports for grades 1-12.

International Ivy Summer Enrichment Programs

Summer Plus

908-899-1338, email info@iisummer.com. www.iisummer.com • Short Hills: The Pingry School, 50 Country Day Dr. • Chatham: Chatham Day School, 700 Shunpike Rd. • Caldwell: Caldwell College, 120 Bloomfield Ave. • Somerset: Rutgers Preparatory School, 1345 Easton Ave. • Far Hills: Far Hills Country Day School, 697 Minebrook Rd. • New Milford: Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County, 275 McKinley Ave. See complete listing under Academic Camps.

Frelinghuysen Middle School, West Hanover Ave., Morris Township, 973-292-2063. Morris School District Community School’s alternative to camp for children who have completed K to age 12.

Temple Emanu-El’s Summer Camp 756 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-232-7663. See display ad and listing under Preschools.

Temple Sinai Early Childhood Education 208 Summit Ave., Summit, 908-273-4921 ext. 31. Preschool camp programs available for children ages 2-4. Activities include playground and tricycle play, water play, art, music, exercise and games, and weekly themes and special events. See display ad and listing under Preschools.

Montclair State University Summer Camp for Academically Gifted Youth Montclair State University, Upper Montclair, 973-655-4104. Summer camp enrichment experiences for qualified youngsters in grades 4-10. Math, science, cultural, recreational and humanities courses.

Wagner Farm Arboretum

Raritan Valley Community College

197 Mountain Ave., Warren, 908-350-7383. Week-long camps are offered for children in grades K-7 on a variety of different topics.

118 Lamington Rd., Branchburg, 908-526-1200 ext. 8404. Gifted and talented classes are offered during the summer for ages 8-12. Before- and after-care available.

West Essex YMCA Day Camps

Summer Institute for the Gifted

321 S. Livingston Ave, Livingston, 973-992-7500. The West Essex YMCA has the right day camp experience to meet your child’s needs. Choose from our progressive camps (Camp Peanut Shell, Super Summer and the Teen Adventure Camp) or our traditional day camp program, Pioneer Trails. Our camps provide an environment where your child will have fun, make new friends and explore new activities. For more information, call 973-992-7500 or visit www.westessexymca. org. See display ad on page 140.

River Plaza, 9 W. Broad St., Stamford, CT, 866-303-4744. Day and residential programs for gifted students ages 4-18. www.giftedstudy.org

YM-YWHA of Union County Summer Camp 2014 501 Green Lane, Union, 908-289-8112. Swimming, sports, art, nature, music, drama, cooking, dance, fantastic day trips, carnivals, concerts and many special events. Full time EMTs, 50 wooded acres, 4 playgrounds, 3 ball fields, newly renovated gymnasium, air-conditioned rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, snack bar. Add-on options include transportation, early drop-off, late pick-up, lunch. For more information or to download forms visit our website at www.unionycamps.org.

Zadie’s Nurturing Den Summer Wonders 1 Walnut St., Summit, 908-277-8584. Summer Wonders at Zadie’s™ creates exciting occasions to engage our little ones in fun activities. This enriching experience magically unfolds the world for children 21⁄2-6 yrs. old, Mon.-Fri. from 7am-7pm, and includes delicious home cooked meals. Summer Wonders at Zadie’s™ provides a combination of fun and enriching activities including field trips, extra-curricular activities, swimming, gardening and more, all in a development focused and nurturing atmosphere. See display ad on back cover.

GIRLS LEADERSHIP CAMPS Girls’ Leadership Institute Kent Place Kent Place School, 42 Norwood Ave., Summit, 908273-0900, ext. 303. A two-week summer enrichment program for girls entering grades 7 and 8 to develop leadership skills, build self-esteem, and set personal goals. Visit website for more information, www.kentplace.org/gli. Jul 14-25 GLI 2014 dates.

Girls Leadership Institute Summer Camp Located at Miss Hall’s School, Berkshires, Massaachusetts. Residential camp, co-founded by Rachel Simmons, author of “Odd Girl Out,” encourages girls entering grades 6-12 to express their emotions and build authentic relationships through fun, self-discovery workshops, theatre games, sports, storytelling and filmmaking. www.girlsleadership.org

HISTORY CAMPS Camp Edison Thomas Edison National Historical Park, Main St. & Lakeside Ave., West Orange, 973-736-0550 x89. A multi-day series of programs for children in grades 2-6 features a different theme each day. Register for one day or all. No cost to attend, but space is limited.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

137

YM-YWHA OF UNION • 501 GREEN LANE • UNION

suMMEr CaMP 2014 at the“ y ” JuNE 23rd-auGusT 15th (ages 3 – 15)

★ ✮ ★ ✮ ★ ✮ ★

10 Divisions Jewish or Secular programs 8 weeks or 4 weeks Indoor and outdoor facilities 2 pools, new gym, sports fields, air-conditioned rooms Dozens of daily activities and “specials” OPTIONS: Early & Late, Lunch, Transportation

PURIM CARNIVAL

Sunday, March 2 (12-3pm)

Inflatables, Face Painting, Games, Food, Prizes!

Early Discounts for Camp Registration!

REGISTRATION MATERIALS / FEES / ADDITIONAL INFO: www.unionycamps.org • 908.289.8112

Jacobus Vanderveer House Colonial Camp RIver Road Park, 955 Rt. 202/206S, Bedminster, 908-2127000 ext. 404. Children, ages 9-13, experience life in the 18th century through crafts, games, cooking, farming, more.

Liberty Hall Museum History Day Camp 1003 Morris Ave., Union, 908-527-0400. Children ages 8-12 become junior tour guides as they experience historical crafts, activities and games.

Readington Museums PO Box 216, Stanton, 908-236-2327. Museum Camp gives children in grades 4-6 a first hand experience at life in the 1830s with historic costumes and instruction on daily tasks. Archaeology Camp, for students in grades 6-8, teaches field methods in archaeology at township historic sites.

Red Mill Museum Village Summer Camp 56 Main St., Clinton, 908-735-4101. Three half-day weekly sessions for students entering grades 4-8 have colonial life, Victorian days and archaeology themes.

Travels in Time Summer Camp Morris County Park Commission, 973-285-6537. Campers ages 7-14 can “apprentice” at the Speedwell Iron Works, Cooper Gristmill, and Fosterfields Farm to experience jobs that were done in the 19th and 20th centuries.

HORSEBACK RIDING CAMPS Center Line Farm 245 Route 517, Tewksbury, 908-832-9448. NEW pricing structure due to the economy: 50% off second week. See listing under Horseback Riding. www.clfarm.com

Dapple Hill Farm Pony Camp Minutes from I-78, within easy access of NY, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 201-725-0047. Debuting this summer, Dapple Hill Farm's annual Pony Camp features a unique experience with the addition of the Foal Program. 2013 campers will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to work with three foals alongside our professionals. DHF's Pony Camp is a top rated introductory camp for children and young teens. Campers will enjoy riding 5 days

a week,while learning about horses, horse care and having fun! Traditional camp activities are paired with DHF's exclusive camper/pony teams bobbing for apples race, scavenger hunts and culminating at "The Wedding." A full week session is $500, Mon.-Wed.-Fri. $375. Visit our website for further details and other opportunities at DHF. See display ad on inside front cover.

Kafka Farms Summer Camp 2014 901 Valley Rd., Watchung, 908-405-8038. Horseback riding camp for ages 5-14 features lots of horseback riding, horse care, swimming, archery, crafts, fun games on horseback, waterslide, horse and carriage ride, camel rides and horse show. 9-3 Mon.-Fri.

Palermo Show Stable 1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500, 210-8605688. Info@palermoshowstable.com. Mon.-Fri. day camps. Horseback riding lessons, all ages of children and adults – beginner to advanced. Summer day camps, ages 6 to 16 and youth camp ages 3-5. Boarding, training, showing, horse sales and leases, and monthly horse shows. www.palermoshowstable.com

River Edge Farm Girls Summer Riding Day Camp 1575 River Rd. East, Bedminster, 908-420-1274. Ages 5-16 daily riding instruction, swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, environmental education, horsemanship and more. We offer half and full day programs in one or two week sessions. The riding camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and licensed by the State of New Jersey. More info on www.riveredgefarm.com.

Seaton Hackney Stables 440 South St., Morristown, 973-644-3355. Weekly Summer Camps, any day Flex Camp, PEP classes for 3–7 year olds. In addition, Seaton Hackney Stables offers riding activities including Mounted Troop Program for all levels (beginner to advanced), Show Team, dressage lessons, cross country lessons, group lessons, and private lessons. For the explorers and nature lovers, trail riding is available through the adjacent Morris County Parks. See discount coupon on page 67. www.seatonhackney.com

138

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps HORSEBACK RIDING CAMPS

MUSIC/DANCE CAMPS

Union County Equestrian Camp

Calderone School of Music

Watchung Stables, 1160 Summit Lane, Mountainside, 908789-3665. 4-day sessions for ages 9-17, 9-3pm. Ring instruction, trail rides, horse care basics. Each camper is responsible for one horse. Registration begins in late May for June and July sessions.

Two locations: Riverwalk Plaza, 34 Ridgedale Ave., E. Hanover, 973-428-0405. 256 Morris Ave., Springfield, 973-467-4688. See listing under Enrichmentâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Music. www.calderoneschoolofmusic.net

Circus Place 6 Jill Court, Bldg. 23, Hillsborough, 908-829-3784. See display ad and complete listing under Sports-Circus Skills.

LANGUAGE CAMPS Bamboo Shoots

Continuo Arts Foundation Summer Musical Theater Conservatory

836 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-9550. Summer camps. See display ad on page 191. bambooshootseducation.com

290 Springfield Ave., Westfield, 908-264-5324. Students are chosen by audition and range in age from 7-18 for annual three-week musical theater immersion experience.

Bilingual Buds Immersion School for Children

Elefante Jazz & Rock Camps Musical Theater Camp

587 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-8088. Mandarin Chinese or Spanish immersion for children ages 21â &#x201E;2-10. Taught by the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full-time teaching staff, Bilingual Budsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; immersion camp uses hands-on activities and summer fun to ignite language learning. Creative, high-energy themes incorporate sports, the arts, cooking, travel, science, and more. A wonderful introduction to the preschool and elementary school. Two-week sessions available from June to Aug. Beginners welcome. www.bilingualbuds.com

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts, 1790 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-464-5928. Jazz Camp (8/11/14-8/15/14), Rock Camp (8/18/14-8/22/14), All-Girl Rock Camp (8/25/14-8/29/14). All three camps culminate in a Friday night performance at Crossroads nightclub in Garwood on the last day of the respective camp. Highly acclaimed musical theatre camp for children in Pre-K to 12th grade (6/30/14-8/8/14). Dance/Drama Intensive Camp (8/11/14-8/15/14).

4 Strings! At Central Presbyterian Church, Summit, 973-682-9360. Summer Chamber Music Academy for string students in grades 4-12. Chamber works, masterclasses, guest artists, music field trip. Applications and auditions in April/May.

Salta! Spanish Immersion Summer Camp

The Institute of Music for Children

Locations in Livingston, Edison and Princeton, 732-3712221. Children ages 4-11 learn Spanish naturally through interactive games, music and dance, theater and improvisation, arts and crafts, and various outdoor sports and activities. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like visiting a Spanish-speaking country without taking a plane! See listing under Enrichment-Language.

780 Salem Ave., Elizabeth, 908-469-1211 x6. Office: Tue.-Fri. 10:30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;6:30pm. The Institute of Music for Children, a non-profit organization offers year-round classes and private lessons in instrumental music, voice, dance, visual arts and drama to children, teens and adults. Five-week Summer Camp for ages 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;16 beginning June 30th. Our vision is to create H.A.R.M.O.N.Yâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Helping Achieve Responsible Motivated Optimistic Neighborhood Youth by providing in-depth arts experiences. www.instituteofmusic.org

30!.) 3( ) --%23) /. *UMP I NT O 3PANI SH

Â&#x161;

3UMMER #AMP

6OL L EY BAL L

4ENNI S

3OC C ER 0L AI NF I EL D 2D "AS K ET BAL L

3WI MMI NG %DI SON

.* -US I C AND $ANC E 4HEAT R E 0R OGR AM 'AMES

I MPR OV I S AT I ON AND DR AMAT I C PL AY !R T S AND C R AF T S 6I S I T S F R OM OUR ANI MAL AND R EPT I L E F R I ENDS &,%8) ",% %.2/,,-%.4

#HECK OUR WEBSI T E F OR SUMMER CAMP OF F ER I NGS AT OT HER 3AL T A CENT ER S

Mason Gross School of the Arts Extension Division, Rutgers University 81 George St., New Brunswick, 732-932-8618. Email: extension@masongross.rutgers.edu. Music, art, dance summer camps and more.

The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts 1820 East Second Street, Scotch Plains, 908-322-4249. The Moderne Academie of Fine Arts has been fostering the love of dance for over forty years. Summer dance program includes camps, classes and workshops. See complete listing under Enrichmentâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Dance. www.moderneacademie.com

Scherzo Music Studio 415 Speedwell Ave., Morris Plains, 973-551-7000; 458 Springfield Ave., 2nd Floor, Summit, 908-522-0300. Email: mail@scherzostudio.com. Instrument, voice and general music summer camps, morning, evening and weekend hours; group and private music lessons for all ages and abilities throughout the summer; Kindermusik Summer Adventure Camps for ages 0-7. Spring registration is now open. www.scherzostudio.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

139

The Junior & Senior

Shakespeare Corps A dynamic alternative to the traditional summer theatre camp for ages 11–17.

Summer 2014

“Few in millions can speak like us.” -The Tempest

973-845-6745

ShakespeareNJ.org

www.

Westminster Summer Programs Princeton and Lawrenceville, NJ, 609-924-7416. Middle and high school students from across the nation come to Westminster for an extraordinary learning experience. Students will study with renowned artist faculty in the areas of voice, piano, musical theatre, organ, composition and filmmaking. Our programs offer residential and nonresidential options. www.rider.edu/summercamps

NATURE CAMPS AWESIM Kids Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center, Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489 x330. One week or two-week sessions feature boating, hiking, wildlife, unique day trips and more for ages 10-12. Extended day options.

Bivalve Summer Day Camp Bayshore Discovery Project, 2800 High St., Bivalve , Port Norris, 856-785-2060. Discover critters who make Delaware Bay their homes, learn the history and culture of Bivalve, investigate and find solutions to local problems.

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum Nature Discovery Program Cora Hartshorn Arboretum, 324 Forest Dr. S., Short Hills, 973376-3587. Five-day mini-camps for preschoolers.

Eco-Explorers Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center, Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489 x335. One or two-week sessions offer nature lessons, educational

field trips, games, hikes, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts and more for ages 7-9. Extended care options.

Elephant Tree Nature Camp Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Ave., Summit, 908273-8787. Week-long sessions for ages 4-12 explore the Arboretum's gardens and woodlands through hands-on activities, games and crafts.

Essex County Environmental Center Nature Explorers Summer Camp Essex County Environmental Center, 621B Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 908-973-228-8776. Cooperative program beween the Environmental Center and NJ Audubon Society offers outdoor explorations with activities and crafts for grades PreK-4.

Hunterdon County Nature Day Camp Echo Hill or Mountain Farm locations, 908-782-1158. One and two-week sessions for grades K-10 feature hands-on activities, nature hikes, field trips, games and craft projects. Registration via lottery in March.

Morris County Adventures in Nature Camp Elizabeth D. Kay Environmental Center, Chester Twp., and Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area, Montville Twp., 973-635-6629. Hands-on environmental education experiences in Morris County Parks for kids entering grades K-10.

New Jersey Academy of Aquatic Sciences Camp 1 Riverside Dr., Camden, 856-361-1023. Junior marine biologist and sea camps at the Aquarium offer opportunities for hands-on science activities.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

RE GI ST ER

AT CAMP, I CAN

TO DA Y!

WEST ESSEX YMCA CAMPS Camp Peanut Shell

Super Summer Day Camp Pioneer Trails Day Camp Teen Adventure Camp

2014 2 014 Camp Camp O Open pen H House ouse D Dates ates

JJanuary anuary 12, 12, March March 9, 9, 3:00-5:00pm 3:00-5:00pm and and April April 26, 26, 2014, 2014, 11:00am-2:00pm 11:00am-2:00pm 321 S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, NJ P 973 992 7500 westessexymca.org fb.me/weymca

JCC MetroWest

early childhood camps

140

• • • • • • •

Ages 15 months–5 years 4, 6, or 8 Weeks Instructional Swim Outdoor Organized Sports Arts & Crafts Caring, Experienced Staff Before/After Care Options

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

141

camps NATURE CAMPS New Jersey Audubon Nature Camps • Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-5787. Day camps for children Pre-K to middle school focus on environmental activities and crafts. Overnight camps for grades 6-8 explore the ecosystems at Sedge Island and Mohican Outdoor Center. • Plainsboro Preserve 80 Scotts Corner Rd., Cranbury, 609-897-9400. Children entering grades 1-6 connect with nature by exploring the varied habitats of the preserve with trained environmental educators. www.njaudubon.org

SeaQuest Marine Science Summer Camp On Sandy Hook, 18 Hartshorne Dr., Highlands, 732-2910055. Grades 5-8 participate in a week of outdoor, fieldbased learning about coastal habitats, wildlife and human impacts on them with American Littoral Society educators and naturalists. 9am-2pm. www.litoralsociety.org

Schiff Summer Nature Programs 339 Pleasant Valley Rd., Mendham, 973-543-6004. Nature camps for ages 6-12 and 13-15 are offered in July and Aug.

Tenafly Nature Day Camp 313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly, 201-568-6093. One-week sessions for grades pre-K-5 from July through August explore a different environmental theme each week. Full or half day sessions for grades pre-K-K. Ages 12-18 can sign up to be a Counselor-in-Training.

Turtle Back Zoo 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-5800. Children entering K-8th grade can learn about animals, native species, habitats and zoo careers in weeklong camps. Limited space. Teens ages 14-17 can apply by April 1 for Volunteen program.

Brundage Park Playhouse Carrell Rd., Randolph, 973-989-7092. Summer program for ages 8-high school with instruction by professional staff and guest instructors. Each week ends with mini production.

Centenary Young Performers Workshop 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908-979-0900. 5-week professional theater training program for ages 9-18 offers concentrated training by a professional staff. Half-day mini-camp offered for ages 6-8.

Circus Place 6 Jill Court, Bldg. 23, Hillsborough, 908-829-3784. See display ad and complete listing under Sports Camps-Circus Skills.

Count Basie Performing Arts Academy 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732-224-8778 ext. 125. Weekly classes or week-long camps for ages 6-18 in acting, voice, dance, rock music and more.

The Do-Re-Mi School Musical Theatre Camp 93A S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, 973-758-1500. June 30August 1, 2014. www.doremi-nj.com/summer-camps

Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts Musical Theatre Camp 1790 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-464-5928. Highly acclaimed musical theatre camp for children Pre-K to 12th Grade. Daily performance workshops and classes in dance, musical theater and acting. Different special class/event each day, such as a visit from a casting director or Broadway performer, playwriting, pop/legit singing, etc. Three twoweek sessions (6/30/14-8/8/14), with an on-stage, evening performance after each session. 9am-3pm, early drop off and late pick up available. Jazz & Rock Camps and Dance/Drama Intensive Camps are also offered beginning the week of Aug. 11. www.elefantemusic.com

Union County Nature Day Camps

Growing Stage Summer Arts Day Camp

Trailside Nature & Science Center, 452 New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3670. Watchung Reservation is the classroom for discovering nature, astronomy, Native American lore, animals, fossils and dinosaurs for grades pre-1st-6.

The Palace Theatre, Rt. 183, Netcong, 973-347-4946. 1 & 2-week sessions in July & Aug. for grades K-8 offer an introduction to theater arts with a musical show on stage at the end of each session.

The Watershed Nature Camp

780 Salem Ave., Elizabeth, 908-469-1211 x6. Office: Tue.-Fri. 10:30am–6:30pm. Five-Week Summer Institute: Grades PreK–2nd 8am–12:30pm and Grades 3rd–10th 8am–3pm. Aftercare until 5pm available. Begins June 30th. See listing under Music Camps. www.instituteofmusic.org

31 Titus Mill Rd., Pennington, 609-737-7592; fax 609-7373075; email bnc@thewatershed.org. Explore, discover and connect with nature at Watershed Nature Camp this summer. Weekly themes for kids ages 3-17 on a 930-acre reserve. Catch butterflies, explore stream and pond life, build shelters and enjoy crafts, games and hikes. New and exciting activities for each program. www.thewatershed.org

PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS Aspire Performing Arts Company Northern New Jersey/Morris County, 201-220-4933. Email: aspirepac@gmail.com. A professional arts experience in a friendly atmosphere is offered year-round for ages 7 and up. Full-length productions, educational workshops and master classes taught by Broadway professionals help foster self-confidence, enhance communication and teamwork skills, and promote artistic expression. See how we can help your child shine! www.aspirepac.com

The Institute of Music for Children

Jerry Gibson Memorial Summer Youth Theatre Ridgedale Middle School, Florham Park, 973-377-9078. Florham Park area teens try out in early June for summer theater experience.

Kaleidoscope Theatre Summer youth theater sponsored by The Playhouse Association of Summit, Summit Playhouse, New England Ave., Summit, 908-273-2102. Auditions in May, rehearsals start in June.

Kids-in-the-Park Middlesex County Parks Dept., Warren Park Ampitheater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge, 732-548-2884. Creative drama workshop for ages 8-11 consists of two 3-week sessions of theater games, arts & crafts, music and dance.

142

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS Luna Stage Summer Camp 695 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair, 973-744-3309. Children in grades K-6 learn the many aspects of theater craft from professional teaching artists during four-week full-day program.

Middletown Arts Center 36 Church St., Middletown, 732-706-4100. Children explore the arts during morning, afternoon or full-day sessions.

New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts 593 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, 973-566-9700. Comprehensive theater arts training program features summer camps for ages 6-18. www.njactors.org

Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Programs Brookside Drive, Millburn, 973-376-3636, ext. 2626. • Summer Musical Theatre Conservatory Rigorous 5-week study for gifted and talented performers ages 10-18 culminates in New Voices Concert performed on the Paper Mill Playhouse stage. Auditions in February. • Paper Mill Players Camp Acting, dancing and musical theatre workshops for children ages 6-12 meet 3 days a week at Millburn Library.

Playwrights Theatre Creative Arts Academy 28 Walnut St., PO Box 1295, Madison, 973-514-1787 x21. A professional theater nationally renowned for its educational projects offers a Summer Theatre Camp for children and teens. Full-day and half-day camps in acting, musical performance, playwriting and play production are offered in four 2-week sessions. Each session concludes with a presentation for family and friends. Space is limited, enrollment is year-round. www.ptnj.org

Premiere Stages Theatre Camp Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave., Union, 908-737-4092. Professional theatre in residence at Kean University offers two performance-based camps for middle school and high school students. www.kean.edu/premierestages

Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Junior and Senior Corps 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-845-6742. The Junior and Senior Corps is a dynamic alternative to the typical summer performing arts camp for ages 11-17. Professional-caliber classes from a leading Shakespeare theater. 2-3 week sessions June-Aug.

The Theater Project Classroom in Maplewood/Cranford Burgdorff Center, 10 Durand Rd., Maplewood; Cranford location, 973-763-4029. Email: education@thetheater project.org. Summer musical theater program for elementary through high school students. www.thetheaterproject.org

SCIENCE / TECHNOLOGY International Ivy Summer Enrichment Programs 908-899-1338, email info@iisummer.com. www.iisummer.com • Short Hills: The Pingry School, 50 Country Day Dr. • Chatham: Chatham Day School, 700 Shunpike Rd. • Caldwell: Caldwell College, 120 Bloomfield Ave. • Somerset: Rutgers Preparatory School, 1345 Easton Ave. • Far Hills: Far Hills Country Day School, 697 Minebrook Rd. • New Milford: Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County, 275 McKinley Ave. Mon.-Fri.: Full day 9-5; half-day 9-12:30 or 1:30-5pm. $780 per week for full day; $390 per week for half day. We create classes based on what kids would love to learn, like video game creation, robotics, Minecraft, performing arts, weird science. We design the classes to be hands-on where kids learn by doing. There are plenty of choices across many disciplines. Kids select the classes which fascinate them. www.iisummer.com

Space Week Summer Camp Buehler Challenger & Science Center, Bergen Community College campus, Paramus Rd., Paramus, 201-262-0984. One week sessions for incoming 5th-8th graders to learn about space and participate in simulated space missions. 9th-12th graders can volunteer at summer camps.

SLEEPAWAY CAMPS Consult the American Camp Association’s Guide to New Jersey Accredited Camps or the National Directory of Accredited Camps for helpful information about sleepaway camps, 877-488-CAMP. www.acacampsnj.org or www.acacamps.org

Appel Farm Arts Camp 457 Shirley Rd., Elmer, NJ, 800-394-8478. 2, 4, 6 and 8-week sessions for ages 9-17 build skills in music, dance, theater, visual arts, photography, video, recording arts, creative writing, sports and swim. Co-ed residential camp is staffed by artists and arts educators. www.appelfarmartscamp.org

Camp Louemma 43 Louemma Lane, Sussex, NJ 07461, 973-287-7264. Beautiful co-ed sleepaway camp located along the Appalachian Trail in northern New Jersey. Three and six week sessions, 40+ activities, modern cabins and facilities, private lake and brand new pool, great trips, caring staff, nutritious kidfriendly menu. www.camplouemma.com

Camp Mason YMCA 23 Birch Ridge Rd., Hardwick, NJ, 908-362-8217.

Fairview Lake YMCA Sleep-Away Camp

Triple Threat Theater Camp

1035 Fairview Lake Rd., Newton, 973-383-9282.

JCC MetroWest – Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3406. Email: tttcamp@jccmetrowest.org. Hands-on experience studying acting, voice, and dance with working professionals. Weekly theater trips to NYC for workshops with the most creative forces in theater today, lunch out and Broadway matinee. Triple T C is the closest thing to Broadway that your young star can experience!

2000 Frost Valley Rd., Claryville, 845-985-2291. Offering traditional sleepaway age-based camps on 6,000 acres in the Catskills high peaks since 1958. One and two- week horseback riding options, adventure trips from sailing and SCUBA to surf, skate and service learning. www.frostvalley.org

Frost Valley YMCA

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

SUMMER OF A LIFETIME... HAVE THE

2014 FROST VALLEY YMCA SUMMER CAMPS & ADVENTURE TRIPS SUMMER CAMPS FOR FOR CHILDREN A AGE GES S 7-16 1 & 2 WEEK SESSIONS, JUNE T TO OA AUG UGU UST ST

Sleepaway C Cam amp pss | Adve Adventu nturre Trips Trrips | Horse Cam T Camp pss | Farm Farm Cam Camp p

OPEN HOUSES: FEBRU RUA AR RY Y 9, MARCH 9 & APRIL 6 EMAIL: info info@ @fr frostvalley alley.org .org TEL: 845-985-2291

METRO NY/NJ! ONLY 2 HOURS FROM

143

144

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps SLEEPAWAY CAMPS Lindley G. Cook 4-H Camp 100 Struble Rd., Branchville, 973-948-3550. Overnight camp in Stokes State Forest is open to boys and girls who have completed grades 3-10 (4-H and non-4-H members). Six traditional one-week sessions are offered throughout the summer, as well as one week focused on SET (Science, Engineering and Technology).

Play By Play Sports Broadcasting Camps 800-319-0884. Nation’s #1 Sports Broadcasting Camp. Learn from the pros, meet sports celebrities, make play-by-play and reporting tapes, make sports anchor tapes from TV studio and much more. For boys and girls ages 10-18. Day and overnight options available. www.playbyplaycamps.com, facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps, youtube.com/ sportsbroadcastcamp Jul 7Montclair State University.

Jul 11

Speers-Eljabar YMCA Camp Dingmans Ferry, PA, 570-828-2329.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS For Special Needs Camps, visit the Special Needs category beginning on page 158.

SPORTS CAMPS BASEBALL/SOFTBALL

The Ballpark 1 Silver Ct., Springfield, 973-376-9295. Keep the kids moving at The Ballpark's holiday and summer camps with skill stations, games, running bases and more. Coaches chart each players progress daily. Call now to reserve your spot, limited space available. Union County's premier baseball and softball facility. www.theballparkonline.com

BROADCASTING

Jul 11 CIRCUS SKILLS

Circus Place 6 Jill Court, Bldg. 23, Hillsborough, 908-829-3784. Discover the exciting world of circus arts at our 2 week Circus Place Camp. In our new 2,400 square foot facility, your child will be introduced to all the wonder circus has to offer. Campers will explore all circus skills including Aerial Arts, Manipulations and Balance, culminating in a “Big Top” performance for family and friends. Enjoy, as your child builds self confidence as they master balancing on a tight wire, walking tall on stilts, hopping on a walking globe and riding a unicycle. See their focus increase as they experience the joy of juggling, tossing a diabolo, spinning plates and flower sticks. Campers build strength and grace as they learn how to climb, pose and develop routines on our aerial silks, ropes and trapeze. www.thecircusplace.com

FENCING

Fencing Sport Center Summer Day Camps 4 Commerce St., Springfield, 973-376-8565. Email: info@ fencingsportcenter.com. Flexible schedule for Daytime Camps from 8am to 6pm. For beginner and intermediate fencers: fencing footwork, physical conditioning and training, offensive and defensive drills, supervised bouting with tactical and technical analysis, competitions review and analysis. Have fun while learning a great Olympic sport. www.fencingsportcenter.com. See full listing under Sports–Fencing.

Newark Academy Summer Session 91 South Orange Ave., Livingston, 973-992-7000. Newark Academy is the premiere source in northern New Jersey for educational and athletic summer programming. The summer sports program is home to the renowned Mott-Leeney Baseball Camp and other sport-specific camps. State-of-theart athletic facilities and experienced coaches provide young athletes with experiences from skill acquisition to championship-level team play. See listing under Academic Camps. www.newarka.edu

Yogi Berra Camps Yogi Berra Museum, Montclair State University, 8 Quarry Rd., Little Falls, 973-655-2378. Baseball/ softball camp provides boys and girls ages 8-12 a week of expert training with guest instruction from professional players. Sports broadcasting camp info, call 908-233-1113.

GOLF

Morris County Junior Golf Clinics Berkshire Valley Golf Course, Jefferson Twp.; Flanders Valley Golf Course, Flanders; Pinch Brook Golf Course, Florham Park; Sunset Valley Golf Course, Pompton Plains, 973-6971041. Junior Golf Clinics and Intermediate Junior Golf Clinics are offered for ages 10-17. www.morrisparks.net

Somerset County Junior Golf Program Somerset County Park Commission, 908-369-1458 x428. Popular summer golf program introduces the game to Somerset County boys and girls, ages 6-17. Programs include Jr. Golf School, Advanced Golf School, Jr. Golf League, Academy Jr. Golf League, and Pitch & Putt League. Registration begins in March until filled.

Union County Junior Golf Camps

www.kidsguidenj.com More information is just a mouse click away Use the quick & easy links to camp listings!

The Learning Center at Galloping Hill, 1 Golf Dr., Kenilworth, 908-241-8380. Week long and daily summer camps for ages 7-17 of all abilities. Annual Junior Boys and Girls Public Links Tournament held in August for county residents. www.gallopinghillgolfcourse.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

145

The Greater Morristown YMCA Backyard Kids Summer Camp BE AWESOME THIS SUMMER

June 23 - Aug 22, 2014 8:00 am-6:00 pm Ages: 5-16 Full and partial weeks 1/2 day Ages 3-4 Field Trips ~ Theme Weeks Swimming ~ Games ~ Gym 79 Horsehill Rd Cedar Knolls NJ 973.267.0704 greatermorristownymca.org

US Sports Institute

Multi-Sports Camps

732 563 2520. The US Sports Institute golf summer camp is the ideal way to introduce youngsters to the sport of golf. Children will learn all the basic golf techniques using unique and fun training methods. www.USsportsInstitute.com

www.USsportsInstitute.com, 1-866-345-BALL. The US Sports Institute multi sports camp is the original multi sports camp where your child has the opportunity to play over 15 different sports from around the world in one fun packed week! Half day, full day & evening camps are available for children aged 3 to 14 at over 250 locations in NJ. Many others have tried to emulate the success of this camp, but none have come close to the experience and level of energy USSI offers your child. This is the true sports camp experience with so much to do in so little time!

GYMNASTICS

Olympika Gymnastics 250 Sheffield St., Mountainside, 908-514-0449. See listing under Sports-Gymnastics. www.olympikagymnastics.com

MARTIAL ARTS

Shaolin Kung Fu & Tai Chi 50 Mount Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-988-0779. Strengthen body and mind. Summer camps and classes for kids, adults and seniors: Chinese Kung Fu, Tai Chi, SelfDefense and Meditation. Call for a free trial class and special trial period deal – 6 classes for $60. www.njshaolin.com

Newark Academy Summer Session 91 South Orange Ave., Livingston, 973-992-7000. Newark Academy is the premiere source in northern New Jersey for educational and athletic summer programming. The summer sports program is home to the renowned Mott-Leeney Baseball Camp and other sport-specific camps. State-of-theart athletic facilities and experienced coaches provide young athletes with experiences from skill acquisition to championship-level team play. See listing under Academic Camps and display ad on page 124. www.newarka.edu

M U LT I - S P O R T S

Nation’s #1 Sports Broadcasting Camp

Branchburg Sports Complex 47 Readington Rd., Branchburg, 908-203-1600. New Jersey’s premiere sports and family entertainment center features 78,000 square feet of action-packed activities. Lacrosse, soccer, baseball, tennis, basketball and NFL flag football programs. Don’t miss out on our School’s Out and summer day camp programs. www.branchburgsports.com

Drew Athletic Camps Drew University, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-408-3000. Baseball, basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball and tennis camps July and Aug. www.drew.edu

Kean University Sports Camps 1000 Morris Ave., Union, www.keanathletics.com/information/Camps_Clinics/main. Sports camps and clinics for ages 7-18 are offered during summer and school breaks.

Morristown-Beard Day Camp 70 Whippany Rd., Morristown, 973-539-3032 ext. 569. See complete listing under Day Camps and display ad on page 134.

• Learn from the Pros • Meet sports celebrities • Make play-by-play & reporting tapes • Make sports anchor tapes from TV studio • And much more!

July 7-11, 2014 Montclair State University Boys & Girls 10-18 Day/Overnight options available

For more information, call 800-319-0884 or visit www.playbyplaycamps.com,

facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

146

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

camps SPORTS CAMPS M U LT I - S P O R T S

Raritan Valley Community College Sports Camps Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd., North Branch, 908-526-1200 ext. 8235. Sports camps for ages 7-16.

Soccer Camps www.UnitedSoccerAcademy.com, 732-563 2525. USA's wide range of camp options and dynamic professional staff ensure that you’ll never need to look elsewhere for a soccer camp again. With 14 different camp types to choose from, we always have the camp to meet your child’s soccer needs. Camps are open to children aged 3 to 18 and of all ability levels. Over 250 locations to choose from in NJ!

Rutgers Sports Camps

Union Sports Arena

Rutgers Campus, New Brunswick, www.scarletknights.com/ camps.asp. Rutgers coaches teach summer camp programs in soccer, football and basketball and many other sports.

244-A Rt. 22W, Union, 908-687-8610. Summer soccer and hockey camps. www.unionsportsarena.com

The Sports Academy 56 E. Willow St., Millburn, 973-912-9002. Indoor sports programs – baseball, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, preschool, birthday parties, summer camps. www.The-Sports-Academy.com

PA I N T B A L L

TENNIS

US Sports Institute 732 563 2520. Provider of cutting edge tennis programs that cater for all age groups and ability levels. Programs are offered in the spring, summer and fall. All trainers are USTA certified and follow USTA curriculums. www.USsportsInstitute.com

Hardcore Paintball Arena 2E Chimney Rock Rd., Bridgewater, 732-868-3188. Call about our action-packed summer camps and birthday parties. www.hardcorepaintballarena.com

ROCK CLIMBING

The Gravity Vault Indoor Rock Gyms 107 Pleasant Ave. at Rte. 17, Upper Saddle River, 201-934ROCK (7625); 40 Watchung Ave., Chatham, 973-701-ROCK (7625), email: info@gravityvault.com.

New Jersey Rock Gym 373D Rt. 46W, Fairfield, 973-439-9860. Mon.-Fri. 2-10:30pm, Sat. & Sun. 10-8pm. Safe, friendly environment providing indoor rock climbing for birthday parties and groups, summer and winter mini camps. More information online. www.njrockgym.com

RUGBY

Union County Rugby Football Club 908-665-9429, 973-615-2814. Summer flag rugby program for boys and girls from any town in grades K-8. www.mudturtlerrubyyouth.com

S K AT I N G

Union Sports Arena 244-A Rt. 22W, Union, 908-687-8610. Summer soccer and hockey camps. www.unionsportsarena.com

SOCCER

McLoughlin Sports 908-533-3049. Twelve single week camps—mornings or full days. Boys and girls ages 4-18. Led by a professional, experienced, international staff, camps are held locally—Basking Ridge, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Bridgewater, Hillsborough, Watchung, Long Hill Township, Warren and other nearby towns. Speed Training Camps for serious athletes are run simultaneously. Call Tom McLoughlin for more details. www.mcloughlinsports.com

TEEN CAMPS Information about summer travel opportunities for teens can be obtained from www.goabroad.com. See listings under Volunteer for local summer volunteer positions and consider Museums, Historic Sites and Outdoor Education Centers for additional volunteer/ community service/internship opportunities. Many colleges and universities offer summer programs for middle and high school students. Consult schools directly or visit www.usummer.com, a free precollege summer program directory.

Adventures Cross Country 242 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley, CA, 800-767-2722. Adventure travel programs exclusively for teenagers (ages 1318) range from 15 to 40 days in length and may focus on multi-sport activities, water activities or geographic exploration. www.adventurescrosscountry.com

AFS 800-AFS-INFO, www.afsusa.org. 3-7 week summer programs depart June-July and provide opportunities to live with a host family, take language classes or perform community service abroad. See Enrichment-Exchange for more on AFS.

Apogee Adventures 40 Bowker St., Brunswick, Maine, 207-725-7025. One, two & three week goal-oriented bicycle touring, hiking, rafting, sea-kayaking, and community service adventure trips for students (ages 12-18). www.apogeeadventures.com

Appalachian Mountain Club Teen Wilderness Adventures 603-466-2721, ext. 209. Outdoor experience for youth ages 12-18 in a co-ed setting. Trips in New Hampshire, Maine or the Berkshires range from 5-22 days with groups limited to 8 participants and 2 staff instructors.

Chef Central Summer Cooking Camp 240 Rt. 17N, Paramus, 201-576-0100; 45 S. Central Park Ave., Hartsdale, NY, 914-328-1376. See listing under Cooking Camps.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

147

Dapple Hill Farm Pony Camp

Westminster Summer Programs

Minutes from I-78, within easy access of NY, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 201-725-0047. See listing under Horseback Riding Camps.

Princeton and Lawrenceville, NJ, 609-924-7416. Middle and high school students from across the nation come to Westminster for an extraordinary learning experience. Students will study with renowned artist faculty in the areas of voice, piano, musical theatre, organ, composition and filmmaking. Our programs offer residential and nonresidential options. www.rider.edu/summercamps

Day Camp Sunshine 3575 Valley Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-647-9624. Classic summer camp experience provides well-rounded program for today’s teen at an affordable rate. Campers build valuable life skills & create strong bonds with friends and staff in a safe, Christian environment. Weekly field trips, ropes course & climbing tower, variety of electives & daily swimming. www.daycampsunshine.org

Drew University SummerTerm Rt. 24, Madison, 973-408-3400. Summer courses are open to qualified high school students and students from other colleges. www.drew.edu/summer

International Ivy Summer Enrichment Programs 908-899-1338, email info@iisummer.com. www.iisummer.com • Short Hills: The Pingry School, 50 Country Day Dr. • Chatham: Chatham Day School, 700 Shunpike Rd. • Caldwell: Caldwell College, 120 Bloomfield Ave. Mon.-Fri.: Full day 9-5; half-day 9-12:30 or 1:30-5pm. $780 per week for full day; $390 per week for half day. The spirit of International Ivy is to learn and explore while having fun. We create classes based on what kids would love to learn like video game creation, robotics, arts and weird science. Students select the classes which fascinate them. www.iisummer.com

Morristown-Beard Day Camp 70 Whippany Rd., Morristown, 973-539-3032 ext. 569. http://summer.mbs.net

Palermo Show Stable 1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500, 210-8605688. See listing under Horseback Riding Camps.

Playwrights Theatre Creative Arts Academy 28 Walnut St., PO Box 1295, Madison, 973-514-1787 x21. A professional theater nationally renowned for its educational projects offers a summer theater program for teens. Full-day and half-day camps in acting, playwriting, musical performance and audition technique are offered in four 2-week sessions. Each session concludes with a presentation for family and friends. Space is limited, enrollment is year-round. www.ptnj.org

Road Rulz Teen Travel Shimon & Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater, 908-725-6994 x264, Fax: 908-725-9753, Email: LPaniccia@ssbjcc.org. See listing under JCC Camp Ruach. www.ssbjcc.org/camp

Xtreme Adventure Somerset County Park Commission Outdoor Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489 x326. Teens ages 13-15 can sign up for one or more day trips or overnight adventures. No experience necessary.

YEA (Youth Empowered Action) Camp Week-long sleepaway summer leadership program for youth 12-17. Campers choose an issue of importance to them and learn how to take action on the issue once they get home. Locations in Oregon, California and Massachusetts. www.yeacamp.org

OLYMPIC FENCING Kids who crave exercise and a sense of adventure

Foil & Epee Saber Fencing Group & Private Classes Classes from Beginner to Champion, any style On-Site Equipment Store Flexible Summer Schedule Early Registration Camp Discounts Birthday Parties

Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey: Junior and Senior Corps 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-845-6742. The Junior and Senior Corps is a dynamic alternative to the typical summer performing arts camp for ages 11-17. Professional-caliber classes from a leading Shakespeare theater. 2-3 week sessions June-Aug.

Student Conservation Association PO Box 550, Charlestown, NH 03603, 603-543-1700. Service opportunities for high school and college students in National Parks, Forests, Wildlife Refuges and other public and private agencies. www.sca-inc.org

4 Commerce Street, Springfield (973) 376-8565

www.FencingSportCenter.com

148

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

SPORTS ARCHERY

Union County Archery Range Oak Ridge Park, Oak Ridge Rd., Clark, 908-527-4900. Open to archery identification holders. Lessons open to families and small groups ages 9 and over. www.ucnj.org/archery

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL

Fencing Sport Center 4 Commerce St., Springfield, 973-376-8565. Email: info@ fencingsportcenter.com. Fencing club for adults who want to learn and enjoy an exhilarating sport, kids who need and crave exercise and a sense of adventure, fencers who want to achieve their potential. Classes in foil, epee and saber fencing for fencers of any aptitude or style, from beginner to champion. Seasoned and renowned coaches. On-site equipment store. See display ad on page 147. www.fencingsportcenter.com

Medeo Fencing Club 30 Kearney St., Bridgewater, 732-469-2244.

New Jersey Fencing Alliance (NJFA) 50-58 Burnett Ave., Maplewood, 973-763-5728.

Westfield Fencing Club New Jersey Workshop for the Arts, 150-152 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-789-9696.

Union County Youth Baseball League Union County Baseball Association, www.ucba-nj.org. Registration in spring for boys and girls summer minor league, major league and teen league baseball, ages 8-15.

CIRCUS SKILLS

FENCING

FIELD HOCKEY

Get It Dunne Get it Dunne offers a year-round schedule of field hockey clinics for children in grades 1 through 12. Check out our website for information on all our currently scheduled camps and clinics being held at Centercourt Indoor Sports in Gillette. Registration is open for all our programs. Contact us at randa@getitdunne.com or visit www.getitdunne.com.

FITNESS

Dapple Hill Farm Minutes from I-78, within easy access of NY, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 201-725-0047. See listing under Outdoors– Horseback Riding..

Excalibur Fencing Club

Palermo Show Stable

Chatham Club, 484 Southern Blvd., Chatham. www.excaliburfencing.com

1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500, 210-8605688. See listing under Outdoors–Horseback Riding.

Union County's premier baseball and softball facility • Classes and private lessons in: Hitting, catching, fielding and pitching • Ask about our party package • Holiday and Summer camps • Batting cages OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (no appointment necessary!) 1 Silver Court, Springfield, NJ 07081 973-376-9295 • email: theballpark@live.com www.theballparkonline.com

149

C LA E N N S R O SE O W S LL IN G

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

NEW JERSEY’S HOME FOR

CIRCUS ARTS EDUCATION & TRAINING

Balance • Coordination • Fitness Classes offered in • Circus Skills • Aerial Silks • Trapeze • Tight Wire • Juggling • Unicycle, Stilts • Acrobatics • Birthday Parties • Summer Camps 6 Jill Court, Bldg. 23 • Hillsborough, NJ • (908) 829-3784

LPGA- USGA Girls Golf

50 Mount Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-988-0779. Strengthen body and mind. Classes for kids, adults and seniors: Chinese Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Self-Defense and Meditation. Call for a free trial class and special trial period deal – 6 classes for $60. www.njshaolin.com

Learning Center at Galloping Hill Golf Course, 1 Golf Dr., Kenilworth, 908-241-8380. Developmental junior golf program teaches girls ages 7-17 to play golf. Girls work with a PGA or LPGA instructor evenings during the summer. www.greaternewarkgirlsgolf.org, www.girlsgolfonline.org Spring Registration opens.

GOLF

Essex County Mini Golf Safari Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, 560 Northfield Rd., West Orange, 862-520-5024. See listing under Outdoor Entertainment.

The First Tee Junior Golf Program Youth development organization introduces the game of golf and its values to young people at participating golf courses throughout the world. To locate a program near you, contact the nearest chapter. www.thefirsttee.org • The First Tee of Greater Trenton 800-322-4352, www.thefirstteegreatertrenton.org • The First Tee of Monmouth & Ocean Counties 732-759-2170, www.thefirstteemonoc.org • The First Tee of Raritan Valley 732-247-0819, www.thefirstteerv.org

GolfNow.com, EZLinks.com Select a golf course from participating courses nationwide, find a tee time deal and book online 24/7.

Hyatt Hills Golf Complex 1300 Raritan Rd., Clark, 732-669-9100. Public regulation 9hole course, clubhouse, driving range, putting green and 18hole miniature golf. Private lessons, Junior clinics, Junior camps and after-school programs.

Morris County Park Commission Jr. Golf Pinch Brook Golf Course, 234 Ridgedale Ave., Florham Park, 973-326-7602. Applications for summer junior golf clinic for players ages 10-17 are available one day only in June for lottery. Youth tournaments are open to golfers aged 12-18.

Scotch Hills Country Club Golf Course Jerusalem Rd., Scotch Plains, 908-232-9748. 18-hole miniature golf course and 9-hole course, operated by the Scotch Plains Recreation Commission, is open to the public, memberships available. Junior golf clinics for boys and girls ages 10-17 offered in summer. 908-322-6700 ext. 5. Miniature golf birthday parties.

Somerset County Learning Center and Golf Academy Neshanic Valley Golf Course, Branchburg, 908-369-1458 ext. 428. The Learning Center features a driving range, short game area, practice holes, and par 32 nine hole course. A Callaway Golf Performance Center is one of six in the United States offering state-of-the-art golf club fitting and swing analysis. Adult education programs are offered spring, summer and fall. Junior golf programs for ages 6-17 of all abililties start in early spring until the end of Aug. Programs include one-week sessions, free introductory golf clinics, parent child clinics and Junior Masters Day. Beginner to advanced level summer programs and leagues.

150

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

recreation & sports GOLF

South Jersey Junior Golf Foundation Blue Heron Pines (GSP exit 44), 550 W. Country Club Dr., Cologne, 609-965-1800 ext. 2. Summer golf clinics, junior golf tournaments and family clinics. www.acgolf.com

Spring Meadow Golf Course Exit 98 GSP or Exit 31B Turnpike, adjacent to Allaire Village, Wall Twp., 732-449-0806. Part of the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry, this 6,224-yard Par 72 layout is open yearround. Pro Shop, practice facilities and restaurant on site.

Summit Municipal Golf Course 189 River Rd., Summit, 908-277-6828. Par 3 course open Nov.-April to members and guests only. Memberships are available to Summit and Union County residents. Residents of the Chathams are also welcome. www.cityofsummit.org

Union County Golf Facilities • Ash Brook Golf Course, Raritan Rd., Scotch Plains, 908756-0550. 18 hole championship course and family-friendly 9-hole Par 3 pitch and putt course. Rental equipment available. www.ashbrookgolfcourse.com • Galloping Hill Golf Course & Learning Center, Golf Dr., Kenilworth, 908-686-1556. 18-hole championship course; 9 hole course; driving range and practice facility. The Learning Center is open year round with heated and covered stalls and rental equipment. Private lessons, clinics and summer camps are available. www.gallopinghillgolfcourse.com

USGA Golf Museum 77 Liberty Corner Rd., Far Hills, 908-234-2300. Tues.-Sun. 105. Adults $7, ages 13-17 $3.50, under 12 free. Multi-media, interactive exhibits tell the story of golf’s development in the United States, highighting the greatest moments and greatest champions in the game’s history. Weather permitting, visitors are able to hit golf balls with modern and replica equipment on the Research and Test Center’s driving range or use replica antique putters on the Museum’s putting course, inspired by the world-renowned Himalayas putting course in St. Andrews, Scotland. The nine-hole putting course is open April-Oct., call to reserve a tee time.

US Sports Institute 732 563 2520. The US Sports Institute golf summer camp is the ideal way to introduce youngsters to the sport of golf. Children will learn all the basic golf techniques using unique and fun training methods. www.USsportsInstitute.com

GYMNASTICS

Songs, dance, puppets, games, relays, sport skills, gymnastics and more. Birthday parties, Parent’s Night Out, Summer, Spring and Winter Fun Days. See display ad on page 47.

Olympika Gymnastics 250 Sheffield St., Mountainside, 908-514-0449. Gymnastics and tumbling, competitive and recreational, mom-and-me, kids’ night out, cheerleading, open gym, parkour classes, birthday parties, summer camp. www.olympikagymnastics.com

Summit Summies The Connection for Women and Families, 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Girls USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic team for ages 7-15.

HORSEBACK RIDING See listings under Outdoors–Horseback Riding.

MARTIAL ARTS

Shaolin Kung Fu & Tai Chi 50 Mount Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-988-0779. Strengthen body and mind. Classes for kids, adults and seniors: Chinese Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Self-Defense and Meditation. Call for a free trial class and special trial period deal – 6 classes for $60. www.njshaolin.com

M U LT I S P O R T S

Branchburg Sports Complex 47 Readington Rd., Branchburg, 908-203-1600. New Jersey's brand new premiere sports and family entertainment center features 78,000 square feet of action- packed activities. Lacrosse, soccer, baseball and NFL flag football programs. Don't miss out on our School’s Out and summer day camp programs! www.branchburgsports.com

Multi-Sports www.USsportsInstitute.com, 1-866-345-BALL. The US Sports Institute multi sports camp is the original multi sports camp where your child has the opportunity to play over 15 different sports from around the world in one fun packed week! Half day, full day & evening camps are available for children aged 3 to 14 at over 250 locations in NJ. Many others have tried to emulate the success of this camp, but none have come close to the experience and level of energy USSI offers your child. This is the true sports camp experience with so much to do in so little time!

PA I N T B A L L

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

ROCK CLIMBING

151

INDOOR SPORTS FACILITY - BASEBALL - SOCCER - BASKETBALL - PRE-SCHOOL - LACROSSE - FIELD HOCKEY - BIRTHDAY PARTIES - BAR/BAT MITZVAHS - SUMMER CAMPS -

ROLLER DERBY

Red Bank Riots Roller Derby Junior league for ages 12-17. www.redbankriotgirls.com

RUGBY

Union County Rugby Football Club Adult rugby; flag and tackle rugby programs for youth. www.mudturtlerugbyyouth.com

SELF-DEFENSE

Krav Maga – Israeli Self-Defense and Fitness The Do-Re-Mi School, 93A S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, 973758-1500. A new martial arts program for children and adults. Children's program builds high level of confidence. It carries an unrivaled reputation as a perfect method to protect yourself and as an incredible way for kids to learn to lead a healthy life style. Children's program includes antibullying and anti-abduction. The instructors' passion is "to give kids the ability to lead healthy lives, instill in them a love of hard work and to give them the ability to stay safe even in unsafe situations." Adults’ program combines elements of fitness and self-defense, and a separate option is a course for women only. www.doremi-nj.com

S K AT I N G – I N D O O R I C E

Bridgewater Sports Arena 1425 Frontier Road, Bridgewater, (732) 627-0006.

Richard J. Codey Arena at South Mountain 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-3828. Call for public skating hours. Freestyle, dance, youth hockey, private and group instruction for ages 4 to adult with special program for Parents & Tots. Party rooms. Nov Professional Hockey Season opens at arena.

56 East Willow Street, Millburn, NJ 07041 Tel: 973-912-9002 - Fax: 973-912-9824 The-Sports-Academy.com

Floyd Hall Arena One Hall Dr. (on Montclair State University Campus), Little Falls, 973-746-7744. Group lessons, hockey leagues, summer hockey and figure skating camps.

Jersey Wolves Hockey Club League and travel play for ages 8-14. www.jerseywolves.org

William G. Mennen Sports Arena 161 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 973-326-7651. Call for public skating hours. Recorded schedule: 973-326-7650. Three full-size rinks. Home to Colonial Hockey League youth hockey program and the NY/NJ Revolution, professional indoor football team (www.njrevs.com). Beginner skating instruction, house leagues and travel teams, spring & fall clinics, summer hockey school for ages 6-17, summer camp. Group and private skating lessons available age 4adult. Power skating workshops. Birthday party packages. Pro shop and snack bar. Thru Friday Night Skate with DJ Earl, 8-10pm Apr 25 Fridays. $7, skate rental $3.50. Nov-Apr Hockey season, spectators welcome. Nov-Feb Morris County Secondary Schools Ice Hockey Season, spectators welcome. Dec 28 9th Annual Snowball Classic, ice skating show. 4:45-6:15pm. Jan 20 2nd Annual Olympic Day, skating exhibitions & Olympic flag signing. 1:14-1:45pm. Feb 12-19 High school hockey league playoffs & championships, quarter final & semi-final games. Feb 20-21 High school hockey championship games. Mar 1 2014 NJSIAA state ice hockey playoffs, begin March 1. Apr 12-13 2014 Morris Open Skating Competition. Apr 19-20 North American Grappling Association. May 15-18 Shrine Circus, for show times & tickets, 973992-2860.

152

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

recreation & sports S K AT I N G – I N D O O R I C E

Warinanco Skating Center Warinanco Park, Thompson Ave. (off St. George Ave.), Roselle. Recorded message: 908-298-7850. Pro Shop: 908-2987847. Open Nov.-April. Group and private skating lessons, hockey clinics for ages 4 and up, public sessions, family sessions at semi-enclosed ice arena. Skate rentals and snack bar available. Oct 19- Open for the season.

Apr Nov 30 Special Thanksgiving weekend event. Dec TBA Skating with Santa, 1-3pm.

Soccer www.UnitedSoccerAcademy.com, 732-563 2525. USA's wide range of camp options and dynamic professional staff ensure that you'll never need to look elsewhere for a soccer camp again; with 14 different camp types to choose from, we always have the camp to meet your child's soccer needs. Camps are open to children aged 3 to 18 and of all ability levels. Over 250 locations to choose from in New Jersey!

SWIMMING – COMPETITIVE

Many Ys have competitive swimming programs in addition to the independent groups below.

S K AT I N G – I N L I N E

Berkeley Aquatic Club Many communities are dedicating space for skateparks for use by skateboarders and/or in-line skaters. Call your Recreation Dept. for information. Somerville Recreation Wheelpark Veterans Memorial Dr., Somerville, 908-704-6985. Smooth riding surface, ramps, jump boxes, grindable rails & ledges. Annual fee & insurance waiver required for use.

649 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-0574. Satellite location at Drew University, Simon Athletic Center, Madison. USA Swimming Team ages 8-18. Intramural, dual, State, Regional, National and International competitions. Practice offered short course in Berkeley Heights, Drew University and long course in New Providence. Tryouts are conducted in the summer and early fall. www.berkeleyaquaticclub.com

SWIMMING – INDOOR SOCCER

McLoughlin Sports 908-533-3049. Soccer Kids classes for boys and girls 3-7 years old. Classes are held in the spring, summer and fall (with some winter sessions). Tom McLoughlin and his staff combine the skills used by international stars with lots of fun to help children fall in love with the world’s most popular sport. Classes are held locally — Basking Ridge, Berkeley Heights, Bernardsville, Branchburg, Bridgewater, Chatham, Clinton, Florham Park, Hillsborough, Long Hill Twp., Madison, Mendham, Morristown, New Providence, Raritan, Somerville, Summit, Warren, Watchung and other local towns. www.mcloughlinsports.com

Berkeley Swim School 649 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-1995. The Berkeley Swim School conducts swimming instruction year a round for ages 3-adults, everyday in two indoor pools in Berkeley Heights. Preschool, after school, homeschool and weekend classes are open to the public with no memberships. Summer classes run Monday-Saturday. Lap and recreational swimming, Masters and American Red Cross certification programs are also offered. www.berkeleyaquaticclub.com Jun 24 - Summer Sessions, registration begins May 19.

Aug 3

Infant Swim New Jersey 908-227-3674. Lessons in aquatic self-rescue instruction for infants as young as 6 months to 6+ are offered in Morris, Essex and Middlesex Counties by certified ISR instructors. www.infantswim.com

SWIMMING–OUTDOOR

Berkeley Swim Club Plainfield Ave. (adjacent to Columbia Park), Berkeley Heights, 908-464-2125.

Brook Hill Swim & Tennis Club 18 Drift Rd., Watchung, 908-322-8825.

JCC Swim Club 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater, 908-725-6994. Multiple pools, including separate kiddie area with playground; snack bar; tennis courts, sand volleyball court and basketball courts.

Somerset County Park Commission Warrenbrook Pool Warrenville Rd., Warren, 908-754-8404. Open daily late June-Labor Day: Weekdays 12-8, weekends 11-8. Age 3 and under free. Warrenbrook Pool offers seasonal and daily passes. Programming includes swim classes, aquacise, and special clinics such as lifeguarding and diving.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

S W I M M I N G – W AT E R P O L O

Tigers Aquatics Water Polo Princeton University, Coach Derek Ellingson, 609-258-2625. Year round program (Sept.-Aug.) offers instruction and training for ages 8 and older at the Princeton University DeNunzio Pool. Team members play for fun and individual growth and compete in local, regional and national tournaments. www.tigersaq.com

TENNIS

Somerset County Park Commission Tennis Green Knoll Tennis Center, Garretson Rd., Bridgewater, 908722-1303. Colonial Park Tennis Center, Franklin Twp., 732873-8716. April-Oct.: daily 8am-9pm. Weekdays until 3pm, $5; evenings, weekends & holidays $6. The tennis facilities offer walk-on and reserve play, multi-ability instruction and tournaments. Colonial Park is fully accessible for individuals with physical disabilities and is now free for walk-on play. Lessons for adults and children of all abilities offered at Green Knoll Tennis Center and Colonial Park Tennis Center.

Year-a-round Swimming Learn to Swim Adults Lap/Rec Swimming No Memberships

Berkeley Swim School 649 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights 908-464-1995 www.BerkeleyAquaticClub.com

US Sports Institute 732 563 2520. Provider of cutting edge tennis programs that cater for all age groups & ability levels. Programs are offered in the spring, summer & fall. All trainers are USTA certified and follow USTA curriculums. www.USsportsInstitute.com

TRACK

Girls on the Run For locations and dates, visit www.girlsontherunnj.org. 10-week programs in fall and spring for girls in grades 3-5 and 6-8 combine a national curriculum focused on building self-esteem and improving emotional and physical health with training for a 5K event. www.girlsontherunnj.org

Soccer Kids World Sports Speed Training

Ys/JCCs/REC FACILITIES/CLUBS The Connection for Women and Families 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Offers a wide range of recreational and educational programs and services for children and adults. Progressive swim programs begin at 6 months, gymnastics, preschool sports and activities, parent/ child classes, afterschool care for grades K-5, birthday parties, fitness center, lap swim, yoga, pilates, Zumba, aerobics, cardiac rehab, water exercise and dance. Full and partial scholarships available for all programs and activities. www.theconnectiononline.org

Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA 1340 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-889-8880. Programs in swimming, gymnastics, youth sports and fitness. 10 week program sessions. Preschool, Youth and Young Adult programs. Day Camp programs for ages 5-13. Summer Camps and Gymnastics Camps also available.

Greater Morristown YMCA 79 Horsehill Rd., Cedar Knolls, 973-267-0704. We are for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Classes are meant to improve your health and life. Swim lessons teach the lifelong skill of swimming beginning at 6 mos. of age. Youth sports leagues, camp and child care from 6 weeks-5 yrs. Free babysitting for parents who are working out. See display ad on page 154. www.morristownymca.org

• Summer Soccer Camps • Soccer Classes • World Sports Camps • Speed Training • Parties and Events For more information, call

908.533.3049 www.mcloughlinsports.com BASKING RIDGE • BERKELEY HEIGHTS BERNARDSVILLE • BRANCHBURG BRIDGEWATER • CHATHAM • CLINTON FLORHAM PARK • HILLSBOROUGH LONG HILL TWP. • MADISON • MENDHAM MORRISTOWN • NEW PROVIDENCE RARITAN • SOMERVILLE • SUMMIT • WARREN WATCHUNG • AND OTHER AREAS

153

154

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

recreation & sports Ys/JCCs/REC FACILITIES/CLUBS Hunterdon County YMCA Deer Path Branch 144 West Woodschurch Rd., Flemington, 908-782-1030. Round Valley Branch 1410 Rt. 22W, Annandale, 908-236-1055. Aquatics, fitness, youth sports, fun activities for the whole family, full-day childcare for children ages 6 wks.5 yrs., before/after school care at 18 schools countywide, summer camps, and preschools in Clinton and Milford. The Hunterdon County YMCA is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, committed to the philosophy that “the Y is for everyone,” and provides financial assistance to all who qualify.

JCC of Central New Jersey 1391 Martine Avenue Scotch Plains, 908-889-8800. Contact: Caren Goldberg x236. Not-for-profit social services agency committed to serving the Jewish community and communityat-large provides social, recreational, educational and cultural programs and humanitarian services through all phases of life.

The Greater Morristown YMCA

JCC MetroWest Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3400. Offers a variety of programs, activities and special events including Early Childhood Programs and kindergarten; summer camp; School Vacation Programs; afterschool care; parent/childhood classes; 20,000 sq. ft. fitness center with all new equipment, sports and recreation; swim classes; sports leagues; a full size gymnasium with walking/running track; indoor pools; classes in fine arts, music, dance and Jewish education; special needs programs; and more.

Madison Area YMCA 111 King’s Road., Madison, 973-822-YMCA. The Madison Area YMCA has two facilities, the Family Center and the F.M. Kirby Children’s Center. The Family Center features an indoor pool, fitness center, gymnastics center, gymnasium, racquetball courts, teen center, playing fields and indoor playground. Specialty programs are offered for all ages and abilities. A Teen Center is open Friday nights for teens to socialize in a chaperoned environment. Child care and early childhood education for infants-grade 6 are offered through the F.M. Kirby Children’s Center.

Metro YMCAs of the Oranges 139 E. McClellan Ave., Livingston, 973-758-9622. Facilities in Livingston, Maplewood, East Orange, Hardyston and Wayne offer a wide variety of programs including aquatics, youth sports and enrichment, competitive basketball, gymnastics and swim teams, summer day camps, sleepaway camps and conference center/facilities, birthday parties, adult fitness and sports, family nights, teen programs and community outreach programs. Extensive child care options include infant, toddler, preschool, full day and before and after kindergarten, afterschool and vacation care programs. www.metroymcas.org

Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center (JCC)

Making Your Family Stronger Open Swim Family Time Toddler Casses Sports Leagues Swim Lessons Open Gym New Family Locker Room New Locker Rooms, Steam Room New Whirlpool, Saunas Over 90 Free Adult Classes

Join Today! 79 Horsehill Rd Cedar Knolls NJ (973) 267-0704 greatermorristownymca.org Down the street from the new ShopRite

775 Talamini Rd. (conveniently located off Rt. 202-206), Bridgewater, 908-725-6994 x201. Email: info@ssbjcc.org. Website: www.ssbjcc.org The JCC, a non-sectarian facility that serves Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, provides fitness, recreational, social, educational and cultural programs for individuals of all ages to the entire community. The facility includes a fitness center, group fitness studio, spin studio, full-sized gymnasium, indoor salt based swimming pool. The JCC’s salt based outdoor pool (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day) has a dome enclosure for use during the off season. The multi-purpose room is available for private parties and corporate events. The JCC also includes the Bridgewater Tide Swim Team, and Camp Ruach day camp (for campers ages 15 months through teen travel). The Blaustein Early Childhood Center offers infant and toddler day care year round, half-day and full day programs for 2, 3 and 4 yr. olds, Full day Kindergarten and Kindergarten extension (A.M. and P.M.). Swim instruction, music and physical education included. Certified and experienced teachers. Flexible schedules! “J” Crew After School program for Grades K-6. Upcoming Special Events Mar 9 Purim Carnival. Mar 16 Mah Jongg Tournament. May 4 Lag B’Omer Maccabi Games. Jun 9 Annual Golf Outing (Raritan Valley Country Club).

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Jun 19 Jun 23

155

Westfield Area Y

Mah Jongg Tournament. First Day of JCC Camp Ruach.

Somerset Hills YMCA 140 Mount Airy Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-7898. Swim lessons for infants & up, youth swim team, synchronized swim team, gymnastics lessons & teams, Kindermusik, sports, Mom & tot programs, teen programs including SAT Prep course. Babysitting available for participating members. Birthday party packages. • Somerset Hills YMCA at MUJC, 217 Mountainview Rd., Warren, 908-542-1216. Pools, indoor track, basketball gymnasium and wellness center.

Somerset Valley YMCA • Bridgewater Family YMCA, 601 Garretson Rd., Bridgewater, 908-526-0688. • Hillsborough Family YMCA, 19 E. Mountain Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-0490. • Somerville Family YMCA, 2 Green St., Somerville, 908722-4567. Youth aquatics, swim team, recreational gymnastics, movement classes, sports, computer classes, and a wide variety of summer day camps and sports camps. Outdoor swim center and backyard pool lesson program available for the summer season. Child care for ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten and after school. Birthday parties.

220 Clark St.; 422 E. Broad St.; 170 Elm St., Westfield, 908233-2700. Recreation programs for preschoolers to adults. Swim lessons and competitive swim teams, youth sports and games, health and wellness classes and extensive teen activities available. Summer day and travel camps for preschoolers through teens. Childcare services include daycare, preschool-K, school age before and after school care. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. www.westfieldynj.org

Woodbridge Community Center 600 Main St., Woodbridge, 732-596-4103. The 110,000 sq. ft Community Center includes a complete sports center, arenas for ice skating and roller skating, outdoor mini-golf, cafe and Skyline Pavilion rental facility. The YMCA operates and manages portions of the Center including the Wellness Center and strength room, gym, pool, track and provides swim lessons, child care, preschool and exercise classes. www.njwcc.com

Summit Area YMCA www.TheSAY.org • Summit YMCA 67 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-3330. • Berkeley Heights YMCA 550 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-8373. • The Learning Circle YMCA (TLC) 95 Morris Ave., Summit, 908-273-7040. Aquatics, parent/child movement, preschool and youth enrichment and sports, teen programs, yoga and pilates, fitness and wellness. Offering extensive child care programming for all ages, from infant to kindergarten options to before school, after school and vacation care programs. Y Cares financial assistance. Volunteer opportunities. Employment opportunities in Y programs and day camp.

State-of-the-art Rock Climbing! Adult & Kids Classes with our Professional Instructors Extraordinary Parties!

107 Pleasant Ave. @ Route 17N Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 201.934.ROCK (7625) ------40 Watchung Avenue Chatham, NJ 07928 973.701.ROCK (7625)

www.gravityvault.com

MADISON AREA YMCA JOIN US WE’RE HERE FOR GOOD

madisonareaymca.org FAMILY CENTER 111 Kings Road, Madison 973-822-YMCA (9622)

F.M. KIRBY CHILDREN’S CENTER 54 East Street, Madison 973-377-4945

156

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

recreation & sports RECREATION DEPARTMENTS

Recreation Departments offer many recreational and leisure opportunities for all ages, from toddlers, teens to adults, at a price that can’t be beat. Most communities limit enrollment to residents only, however, select programs may be open to non-residents if space is still available after resident registration. In addition to sports, fitness, enrichment, cultural events, summer programs and other seasonal activities, most Recreation Departments also sponsor bus trips to major events and offer discount tickets to many ski areas and amusement parks in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Facilities include parks with walking/fitness trails, playgrounds and sports fields, and often include community pools, tennis and basketball courts, skate parks, ice skating and golf. Recreation facilities and equipment are often available for rental. Program and registration information is typically distributed to residents through newsletters, the schools or email and is also available online through municipal websites. If you are looking for a particular organized sport in your community, your Recreation Department can, most likely, assist you.

Chester Boro Recreation 300 Main St., Chester, 908-879-3660 www.chesterborough.org

Chester Township Recreation 1 Parker Rd., Chester, 908-879-5100 ext. 825 www.chestertownship.org

East Hanover Recreation Lurker Park, 5th St. off Eagle Rock Rd., East Hanover 973-428-3095; Recorded line: 973-428-3090 www.easthanovertownship.com

Florham Park Recreation 111 Ridgedale Ave., Florham Park, 973-410-5390 www.florhamparkboro.net/recreation

Hanover Township Recreation 15 N. Jefferson Rd., Whippany, 973-428-2463 www.hanovertownship.com

Long Hill Township Recreation 915 Valley Rd., Gillette, 908-647-8000, x219 www.longhillnj.us

Madison Recreation 50 Kings Rd., Madison, 973-593-3097 www.rosenet.org/gov/recreation

Mendham Township Recreation 2 W. Main, PO Box 520, Brookside 07926 973-543-4555 x122 • www.mendhamtownship.org

Township of Morris Parks and Recreation

essex county Livingston Senior, Youth & Leisure Services 204 Hillside Ave., Livingston, 973-535-7925 www.livingstonsyls.org

Maplewood Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs The Civic House, 124 Dunnell Rd., Maplewood, 973-763-4202 www.twp.maplewood.nj.us

Millburn Recreation Department 375 Millburn Ave., Millburn, 973-564-7097; Recorded info line: 973-564-7096. www.twp.millburn.nj.us

South Orange Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs The Baird, Mead St., South Orange, 973-378-7754 www.thebaird.org

50 Woodland Ave., PO Box 7603, Convent Station, NJ 07961 973-326-7371 • www.morristwp.com/dept_recreation.asp

Morristown Recreation 200 South St., Morristown, 973-292-6717 www.townofmorristown.org

Washington Township Parks & Recreation 50 Rock Rd., Long Valley, 908-876-5941 www.wtmorris.org

somerset county Bedminster Township Recreation One Miller Lane, Bedminster, 908-212-7014 www.bedminster.us

Bernards Township Parks & Recreation One Collyer Lane, Basking Ridge, 908-204-3003 www.bernards.org

Bernardsville Recreation

hunterdon county Hunterdon County Department of Parks and Recreation 1020 Hwy. 31, Lebanon, 908-782-1158 www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/depts/parks/parks.htm

166 Mine Brook Rd, Bernardsville, 908-766-2546 www.bernardsvilleboro.org https://register.communitypass.net/bernardsville

Bridgewater Township Recreation 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, 908-725-6373 www.bridgewaternj.gov/rec_dept.htm

Greenbrook Recreation

morris county

111 Greenbrook Rd., Green Brook, 732-968-1023 x6507 www.greenbrookrec.org

Chatham Recreation

Hillsborough Township Recreation

Chatham Boro: 54 Fairmount Ave., Chatham, 973-635-7066 Chatham Twp: 58 Myersville Rd., 973-635-3201 www.chathamrecreation.org

379 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-4832 www.hillsborough-nj.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

157

North Plainfield Recreation 93 Greenbrook Rd., North Plainfield, 908-756-0247 www.np-recreation.com

Peapack-Gladstone Recreation Municipal Building, Main St., Peapack, 908-234-2535 www.pgborough.com

Somerville Parks and Recreation 25 West End Ave., Somerville, 908-704-6985 www.somervillenjrec.com

Warren Recreation Commission 3rd floor, 46 Mountain Blvd., Warren, 753-8000, ext. 270 www.warrennj.org/wtrec

Watchung Recreation

Fall sports include soccer, football and cheerleading. Winter sports include wrestling, basketball and hockey. Spring sports include track, baseball, softball and lacrosse. Off-season indoor leagues and summer traveling teams offer additional training and more competitive play. Registration and tryouts, if required, usually begin during the preceding season.

www.eteamz.com Consult www.eteamz.com, leaguelineup.com and leagueathletics.com, online communities of team websites, where you can search registered teams, camps and associations in your area by zip code, sport or level.

15 Mountain Boulevard, Watchung, 908-756-0080 x210 watchungnj.com

union county Berkeley Heights Recreation Commission 56 Columbus Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-0550 www.berkeleyheightstwp.com http://register.communitypass.net/berkeleyheights

TEEN RECREATION Area Ys and community Recreation Departments frequently offer teen space and teen nights featuring sports, games, music or other recreation and special events. Contact your Y or Rec Department for information.

Cranford Recreation and Parks 220 Walnut Ave., Cranford, 908-709-7283 www.cranford.com/rec

Fanwood Recreation 75 Martine Ave. N, Fanwood, 908-370-7092 www.fanwoodrecreation.org

Mountainside Recreation Department Borough Hall, 1385 Rt. 22E, Mountainside, 908-232-0015 www.mountainside-nj.com/recreation.htm

New Providence Recreation Department 360 Elkwood Ave., New Providence, 908-464-4430; recorded information 464-0600 www.newprov.org/recreation

Scotch Plains Recreation Commission 430 Park Ave., Town Hall Room 113, Scotch Plains, 908-322-6700 • www.scotchplainsnj.com

Springfield Recreation Department 30 Church Mall, Springfield, 973-912-2227 www.springfield-nj.us

Summit Dept. of Community Programs Summit Community Center, 100 Morris Ave., Summit 908-277-2932 • http://register.communitypass.net/summit.

Westfield Recreation Department 425 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-789-4080 www.westfieldnj.gov/recreation

TEAM SPORTS Information about registration for organized sports teams is distributed through local schools, newspapers, and Recreation Departments. Your Recreation Department is your best contact for locating current teams. See listings above for phone numbers and websites. Recreation Departments and Ys sponsor additional sports teams. See listings under Sports for professional training.

Black Achievers Program Westfield Area Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, 908-233-2700. African-American men and women are nominated by their employers to serve as mentors and role models to local teens. Industry awareness tours, youth workshops, enrichment activities. Open to grades 7-12.

Greater Morristown YMCA 79 Horsehill Rd., Cedar Knolls, 973-267-0704. Strength and agility training, free weights, treadmills, Wii plus six TVs in our circuit room for ages 12+. Ages 10-12 are welcome with an adult.

Hillsborough Township Youth Services Teen Center at the YMCA Hillsborough YMCA, 591 Amwell Rd., Neshanic, 908369-0490. Games, swimming, basketball, volleyball tournaments, snacks for high school and middle school students on separate Sat. evenings. Registration in June for township residents.

Leaders Club Offers teens ages 12-18 an opportunity to develop leadership skills through participation in meetings, social events, community service projects and regional events. Membership not required. • Madison Area YMCA 111 Kings Rd., Madison, 973-822-YMCA. • Summit Area YMCA 67 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-3330. • Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA 1340 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-889-8880. Junior Leaders for grades 6-8 and Teen Leaders for grades 9-12. • Metro YMCAs of the Oranges East Orange YMCA Teen Center, 973-673-5588. South Mountain YMCA, 973-762-4145. Sussex County YMCA, 973-209-9622. Wayne YMCA, 973-595-0100. West Essex YMCA, 973-992-7500. www.metroymcas.org.

158

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

ENRICHMENT See Special Needs–Recreation, Sports, Health Services and Education categories for additional programs. Bethel Ridge Learning Center 175 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-221-0801. Non-profit organization servicing the developmentally disabled population ages 14 and older in Somerset, Morris and Union Counties offers job placement and coaching, support and education services. Internet courses; homework club available for 14-21 yr. old students in school. www.bethelridgenj.org

The Center for Contemporary Art 2020 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-234-2345. Year round classes in visual arts for children with special needs; summer art camps. www.ccabedminster.org

Chef Carls Pizza 888-794-8540. Our award winning party lets your little chefs make their own pizza. Parties for schools, summer camps, special needs and fundraising. See listing under Party Entertainment. www.makeapizzaparty.com

Classic Thyme Cooking School 710 South Ave., West, Westfield, 908-232-5445. During hands-on classes for ages 4 and up, students prepare a meal, learn food safety and other skills and work as a team. Register online, www.classicthyme.com.

EPOCH (Educational Program of Children Handicapped) Madison Area YMCA, 1 Ralph Stoddard Drive, Madison. Afterschool recreational program for special needs children and teens offers a variety of enrichment and social opportunities. For more information or to volunteer, write to PO Box 231, Madison, NJ 07940.

Hoboken School of Music 720 Monroe St., Hoboken, 201-798-2600. Music studio offers creative arts therapy program for children and bullying prevention program for tweens and teens.

Music Connection New Jersey Workshop for the Arts, 150-152 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-789-9696. Reduced-fee instrumental program for special needs children ages 6 and above and partner to study a musical instrument together.

Apr 27 Jun 13 Jun 14

Seussical, TheatreWorks USA. Ages 4+. “Meet Your Seat” Open House, 4-6pm. Disney’s Aladdin Jr., Paper Mill Theatre School. Sensory-friendly performance, ages 5+.

Sensory-Friendly Performances A number of venues are adapting the theatre environment to offer sensory-friendly events in a comfortable and judgment-free space. Visit Theater listings for Paper Mill Playhouse, Union County Performing Arts Center (see below), McCarter Theatre, AMC Theatres, New York’s Theater Development Fund to start.

Therapy Nook 125 Washington Valley Rd., Warren, 908-967-2421. Therapist recommended, child tested, parent approved educational toys and equipment for parents, teachers and therapists. Coming soon! See display ad on page 174. www.therapynookllc.com

Union County Performing Arts Center Sensory Friendly Theatre 1601 Irving St., Rahway, 732-499-8226. 60-min. performances are adapted with no intermission, general seating, lowered sound, lights up and freedom to talk and move around. “This Is My Theatre” picture packet may be downloaded from www.ucac.org. Jan 12 Things That Go Bang, The Little Orchestra Society. Mar 16 Sleeping Beauty, New Jersey Ballet. May 18 Aesop’s Fables, puppeteer Jim West.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey 68 Elm St., Summit, 908-273-9121 x213. Art outreach program of weekly classes serves special needs students, ages 7-12, from Union, Essex and Morris Counties.

VSA Arts of New Jersey 703 Jersey Ave., New Brunswick, 732-745-3885. Part of an international network, VSA/NJ provides arts programming throughout New Jersey for children and adults with disabilities and resource and referral services for information or assistance with arts issues. www.vsanj.org

Zenful Holistic 55 Walnut St., Suite 102A, Norwood, 201-660-8400. Yoga for children with autism and yoga for children with special needs offer a way for children to connect to themseves and others. Limit 8 per session, divided into two age groups. Visit website or call for details. www.zenfulholistic.com

Paper Mill Playhouse Creative Drama Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Dr., Millburn, 973-3764343. A six-week creative drama class for students ages 912 with developmental disabilities is offered in partnership with VSA-NJ. Check Theatre listing for dates for sensoryfriendly theater performances.

Paper Mill Playhouse Sensory Friendly Theatre Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Dr., Millburn, 973376-4343. Sensory Friendly Performances The theater environment is altered to provide a sensoryfriendly, comfortable and judgment-free space for all families. Apr 25 “Meet Your Seat” Open House, 4-6pm.

RECREATION & SPORTS C heck with your Recreation Department for programs offered for children with special needs as well as your local ARC. In the Kids’ Guide, see listings under Parks & Playgrounds, Enrichment, Camps, Team Sports, Health and Special Education for additional resources. Adaptive Swim Lessons Weisman Children’s Rehab Hospital, 92 Brick Rd., Marlton, 856-489-4520 x251. Inclusive swim lessons for children ages 3-6 and 7-11 focus on water safety, social

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

159

Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders and The Department of Parks and Community Renewal present

interaction skills and basic stroke mechanics in a group setting. www.weismanchildrens.com

Bambino Buddy Ball Baseball Nationwide program established by Babe Ruth Baseball gives ages 5-20 with special needs the opportunity to play baseball with the assistance of a “buddy.” Ask your Recreation Department for information about your local Babe Ruth League. www.baberuthleague.org • Westfield Buddy Ball, www.westfieldbaseball.com

The Connection for Women and Families 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242, ext. 131. Adaptive aquatics for ages 4-adult; Variety Hour for ages 10+; Teen Club/Social for ages 13-24; teen basketball, learn-to-swim for ages 3-8; Young Athletes, co-sponsored with NJ Special Olympics for ages 21⁄2-7; and Club Oh! for adults.

Recreation Programs for People with Disabilities Programs for children and adults with special needs include: • Arts Unbound • Karate • Horticulture • Fishing Derbies • Recreational Swim • Golf • Soccer • Culinary Delights • Yoga Sensory Friendly Theatre for Children with Autism & their Families For information on these and other Park programs, or to be placed on our mailing list to receive brochures and program details, call:

908-527-4806

or visit our website at www.ucnj.org

Easter Seals New Jersey’s Camp Merry Heart 21 O’Brien Rd., Hackettstown, 908-852-3896. Year ‘round fun and recreation at Camp Merry Heart’s beautiful and safe 123acre facility includes a wide variety of activities for individuals of all ages and levels of special needs and abilities. www.eastersealsnj.org/camp

EPOCH (Educational Programs of Children Handicapped) Madison Area YMCA, 1 Ralph Stoddard Drive, Madison. Afterschool recreation, swimming and enrichment program. Students work one-on-one with a counselor for 90 min., up to 3 days a week during the school year. Contact the Director at PO Box 231, Madison, NJ 07940 for info.

Gateway to Social Opportunity 973-376-0676, 973-635-8204. Non-profit organization provides social and recreational activities for special needs children ages 5-30 with mild disabilities. Groups meet on Sat. afternoons at The Connection for Women & Families in Summit. www.gatewaysocial.com

High Expectations, Inc. Email highexpectinc@gmail.com; Bob, 973-202-8994. Parentdriven membership organization based in Union County provides sports, recreation and social activities for children, teens and adults with disabilities. Soccer, basketball, bowling, swimming and softball teams participate in organized leagues, tournaments and venues provided by the Special Olympics of New Jersey. Social activities include dances, craft nights, karaoke nights, movie nights and more. www.highexpectationsinc.org

Kids Blvd 125 Washington Valley Rd., Warren, 732-560-KIDS. Kids gym and interactive playspace offers kids a great place to play and socialize while developing skills in a fun, educational and safe environment. Coming soon! See display ad on page 174. www.kidsblvdgym.com

Livingston Little League Challenger Division open to area children ages 5-18 with any physical, mental or neurological disability. Call Livingston Rec, 973-535-7925, for contact information.

MCARP 973-455-1288. Morris County Adaptive Recreation Program for physically or otherwise handicapped persons.

Mountain Valley Conference Challenger Football & Cheerleading League littlebearsfootball.webs.com. Non-competitive, non-tackle,

no-score Pop Warner Little Scholars football and cheer experience for children in grades 2-8 who have an IEP/ special needs. The Mountain Valley Conference serves all of Somerset County and parts of Hunterdon County. Visit website for information and registration.

Pathways for Exceptional Children Montville organization dedicated to advocating for educational and social reform for children with disabilities, trains communities throughout the state in the children teaching children model for providing programs for children from age 3 to adulthood. www.pathwayskids.org

Saturdays in Motion Somerset Hills YMCA, 140 Mt. Airy Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-7898. Recreational and social program for autistic children and their families on Sat. afternoons.

Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable T.R.A.I.L.S. Program 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-526-5650. Adapted horseback riding instruction for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Somerset County Park Commission Therapeutic Recreation 355 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater, 908-526-5650. Fees vary for programs. Year round recreation programs for children, teens and adults with disabilities. Camp Okee Sunokee is a 6-week summer day camp for Somerset County residents age 6-14 with learning disabilities or Aspergers Syndrome.

SNAP Special Needs Athletic Programs Non-profit organization arranges mentoring programs, inhouse buddy programs and sports clinics in the Morristown area. Clinics include swimming, tae kwon do, soccer, basketball and baseball. Volunteers sought for mentoring. www.snapclinics.org

Special Olympics New Jersey 3 Princess Rd., Lawrence, 609-896-8000. Non-profit organization with its own sports complex in Lawrenceville provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.sonj.org Ongoing Young Athlete Program, for ages 2-7 in many New Jersey communities.

160

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

special needs RECREATION & SPORTS TryCan TryCan Coordinator, 908-277-1392; Berkeley Heights Recreation, 908-464-0550 ext. 13; New Providence Recreation, 908-464-4430. Through a cooperative effort between Summit, New Providence and Berkeley Heights, TryCan is dedicated to serving children with special needs. One-on-one supervision is provided by trained teen mentors who work with the children participating in sports, leisure and social development programs. Children from all communities are welcome to participate. Call to join mailing list or for more information, contact TryCAN Coordinator at 908-277-2932 or email summitcan@gmail.com.

Union County Recreation Programs for People with Disabilities Union County Department of Parks and Community Renewal, 908-527-4806. A full schedule of offerings is available. Activities include karate, golf clinics, culinary delights, fishing derbies, volleyball, recreational swim, yoga, horticulture, Arts Unbound, soccer, sensory friendly theatre for children with autism and their families, and more. Call to be placed on the mailing list. Mar 6Volleyball, 7-8pm Thurs. at Union County Apr 3 College. Pre-registration required. May 10 Fishing Derby, 10am-1pm. Pre-registration required.

Watchung Hills Pop Warner Challenger Division www.whpw.org. Shortened, non-competitive football and cheer program for boys and girls ages 5-16 with disabilities in Long Hill Twp., Warren Twp., Watchung, Bernards Twp., Berkeley Heights and New Providence.

UNIVERSAL PLAYGROUNDS

Memorial Park 713 Cumberland St., Westfield. Built by Greg Ryan, Jr. in 2004 for his Boy Scout Eagle Project, the wheelchair-accessible playground includes a sidewalk from the parking lot to a ramped playground structure with rubber surfacing, two infant, two regular and four special needs swings, one accessible picnic table and four benches.

Morris-Union Jointure Playground 340 Central Ave., New Providence. Open for use by the public on weekends and after 6pm weekdays. Playground, specially designed for children with special needs, features swings with high sides, platform swing, basketball court, enclosed slides, reduced-height climbing bars, cushioned with a 15-inch carpet of wood chips.

Phil Rizzuto Park 594 Morris & North Aves. (across from Kean University), Union, 908-527-4900. 10.4-acre recreational area features a fully accessible play area for children of all physical abilities. The park is decorated with baseball themes, a baseballstyle seating area, gazebo with stadium-theme overhead, and granite dedication monument. Other attractions include a spray pool, pedestrian bridge, soccer field and para-course fitness stations.

Rainbow Land Midland School, 94 Readington Rd., North Branch. Fully handicapped accessible playground for student and community use features sandbox and planter, mock post office and bank, large tire toy, small theater, wheelchair slider, slides, swings and numerous other sensory-motor activities.

Tony’s Place – Monmouth County Park For more detailed info about playgrounds throughout New Jersey including photographs and a mom’s commentary, visit www.njplaygrounds.com. See general listings under Outdoors-Parks & Playgrounds for additional playgrounds.

Central Park of Morris County 91 Central Ave., Morris Plains. Fully accessible facilities include new, state-of-the-art all-access playground, Challenger League rubberized surface ballfield, two lighted regulation size in-line skating rinks, restrooms and walking trails. Park also features 5K cross country trail, fitness stations, 5-acre dog park and ball fields.

Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, 221 Ocean Ave. N, Long Branch. Seaside-themed, universal access playground at the beach; concession stand; restrooms, changing facilities.

Votee Park Located at the northern end of the park, 1097-1235 Palisade Ave., Teaneck. Wheelchair accessible construction, designed for children ages 2-12, is surrounded by a fence and consists of supportive swings, hanging bars and slides on a rubber surface.

Challenger Place – Monmouth County Park Dorbrook Recreation Area, 209 Rt. 537E, Colts Neck. Universally accessible play facility includes elevated surfaces, Braille signs and three play structures with areas where children of varied abilities can play together.

Edgemont Park All Children's Playground 20 Edgemont Rd., Montclair. Full playground offers universal access for children of all ages and abilities.

CAMPS D AY C A M P S

ARC • ARC of Essex County Camp Hope 973-535-1181 x1223 7-week summer day camp in East Hanover for developmentally disabled youth ages 6-21. www.arcessex.org • ARC of Hunterdon County 908-730-7827 www.archunterdon.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

161

Call our about LIFE P fabulous ro 16-18 gram for yr old s

Ask ab FREE out our Inclus Sibling ion We eks

• ARC of Middlesex County 732-821-1199 www.arc-middlesex.org • ARC of Morris County 973-765-9661 www.arcmorris.org • ARC of Somerset County Camp Jotoni 908-725-8544 9-week day camp in Warren; 6-week overnight camp provides summer recreational services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. www.arcofsomerset.org • ARC of Union County Camp Star 908-232-0248 6-week specialized day camp in July and Aug. for ages 621 with developmental disabilities. Donations sought from individuals and businesses who would like to sponsor a camper or activity. www.arcunion.org

Camp Erin 914-939-5338, email afuchs@copefoundation.org. Free weekend camp experience for children and teens ages 6-17 who are grieving the loss of someone close to them. Sponsored by The Moyer Foundation and The COPE Foundation. www.copefoundation.org

acre facility includes a wide variety of activities for individuals of all ages and levels of special needs and abilities. www.eastersealsnj.org/camp

Harbor Haven Summer Program West Orange, 908-964-5411. Harbor Haven is a comprehensive summer program where success is fostered. Our beautiful private school setting provides an opportunity for children ages 3-15 with mild special needs to experience typical summer activities including sports, swim, nature, art and so much more. Social skills group, daily academics and speech/occupational therapy groups are added components of the program. The LIFE Program for 16-18 year olds is a unique balance of independent living skills and summer fun. Individual speech and occupational therapies are also available. Transportation can be provided in most cases. The staff to child ratio is 1:3 or better. Numerous professionals instruct and work with the children. For fun and learning all at the same time, Harbor Haven is truly the right place for your child! www.harborhaven.com

Camp Quality New Jersey 732-642-9238. Non-profit organization provides a free weeklong summer camping experience and support program in Blairstown for children with cancer. www.campqualityusa.org/nj

Camp Starbright Center for Hope Hospice & Palliative Care, Scotch Plains, 908288-9137. Free bereavement camp for children ages 5-13 staffed by Master’s level grief counselors and trained hospice workers and volunteers.

Children’s Specialized Hospital 150 New Providence Rd., Mountainside; Toms River; Hamilton; New Brunswick; 1-888-CHILDREN (244-5373).

Comfort Zone Camp 866-488-5679. Non-profit group founded in 1998 offers camps to help grieving children meet with peers who have also suffered a loss. Recreation, group activities and healing circles. www.comfortzonecamp.org

Easter Seals New Jersey’s Camp Merry Heart 21 O’Brien Rd., Hackettstown, 908-852-3896. Year ‘round fun and recreation at Camp Merry Heart’s beautiful and safe 123-

Children and Adults with Disabilities & Special Needs

Easter Seals New Jersey’s

Camp Merry Heart YEAR ROUND fun and recreation at Camp Merry Heart's beautiful and safe 123-acre facility offering a wide variety of activities for individuals of all ages and all levels of special needs and abilities: Swimming - Fishing - Sports - Games - Canoeing Nature Studies - Challenge Courses - Arts & Crafts - Karaoke - and much more! Download our brochure and register online at eastersealsnj.org/camp or call 908/852-3896 today! Easter Seals New Jersey’s

Camp Merry Heart 21 O'Brien Road Hackettstown, NJ 07840

Providing recreational services to over 30,000 individuals with disabilities and special needs since 1954.

162

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

special needs CAMPS Meadowlands Special Needs Day Camp 3 DeKorte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst, 201-460-4623. 10-1:30. Explore a guided experience in the unique marsh habitat of the New Jersey Meadowlands area.

Somerset County Park Commission Therapeutic Recreation Bridgewater, 908-526-5650. Camp Okee Sunokee is a 6week summer day camp for Somerset County residents ages 6-14 with learning disabilities or Asperger’s Syndrome.

Stepping Forward Counseling Center Therapeutic Summer Programs 26 Main St., Chatham; 172 Chestnut St., Nutley; 973-635-6550. Achieve goals, conquer fears, build confidence and selfesteem and develop an enthusiasm for life while learning social and emotional skills that will last a lifetime. 3:1 staff ratio. Day programs, ABA Camp, teen programs and sleepaway camp. See display ad on page 3. www.steppingforwardcounselingcenter.com

Teen Tracks Travel & Club JCC Summer Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, West Orange, 973-530-3478. Teen Tracks Travel Camp offers daily trips each session for ages 13-21 with special needs. Share new experiences and develop new skills. Club JCC Summer, for grades K-6 with special needs, is designed for children who take part in an extended day school program. Gym and swim, arts and crafts, cooking and social skills development activities at the JCC and offsite. Intake interview required.

Tiny Tots Therapy Camp 908-380-7715. Triple Play Summer Camp for ages 4-9 years. 6 week session with full week or daily options available. Social skills and sensory motor groups include Superhero, handwriting, yoga and Sports Stars. See display ad on page 179. www.tinytotstherapyinc.com

SOCIAL SKILLS CAMPS

S P E C I A L N E E D S S L E E PAWAY

Happiness is Camping 62 Sunset Lake Rd., Hardwick, 718-295-3100. Traditional sleepaway camp for children ages 6-15 with cancer. www.happinessiscamping.org

New Jersey Camp Jaycee 732-246-2525 ext. 44. New Jersey Camp Jaycee is a private, non-profit organization providing a unique summer camp experience in the Pocono Mountains for children and adults with developmental disabilities. www.campjaycee.org

Stepping Forward Counseling Center Camp 26 Main St., Chatham, 973-635-6550. See display ad on page 3. www.steppingforwardcounselingcenter.com

THERAPEUTIC SERVICES See additional listings under Health & Family on page 168 for Health Professionals, Children’s Groups and Specialized Services for specific health needs including Asperger’s, autism and ADHD.

new jersey’s early intervention system New Jersey’s Early Intervention System (NJEIS) under the Department of Health & Senior Services, implements a statewide system of services for infants and toddlers, birth to age three, with developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. If you have concerns about your child’s development, call the toll-free referral number, 888-653-4463. www.njeis.org For children, birth to age 21, with special health care needs, call the Special Child Health Services (SCHS) case management unit in your county: www.nj.gov/health/fhs/sch/sccase.shtml

project child find Free public awareness and referral service, established by the New Jersey Department of Education, assists parents and professionals by identifying available programs throughout New Jersey for children 3-21 years of age with special health care needs. Local school districts can provide screening and evaluation. www.state.nj.us/education/specialed/childfind

resources Resources is a directory of services and programs available to children and adults with disabilities and their families published yearly by the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, 609-292-3745. www.njcdd.org

statewide parent advocacy network SPAN, 35 Halsey St., 4th Floor, Newark, 973-642-8100, 800-654-SPAN. Non-profit training and information center funded by the U.S. Department of Education serves parents of children with disabilities or special health care needs. www.spannj.org

Advancing Opportunities 1005 Whitehead Rd., Suite 1, Ewing, 888-322-1918. Additional locations in Barrington, Budd Lake and Little Falls. Formerly Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey, the organization serves people with all types of disabilities and offers school, in-home and work services, support and advocacy, housing assistance, technology lending and therapeutic services through fee-for-service programs. www.cpofnj.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

163

A Comprehensive Therapeutic Center specializing in:

231 US Highway 206 South (corner of Burnt Mills Rd.) Bedminster, NJ 07921 908-375-8237 www.teamhope.com TeamHope is an approved clinic/agency by the State B.O.E. and a provider for NJEIS TeamHope is accepting insurance. Call for additional information.

Autism Spectrum Disorders • Apraxia Motor Speech Disorders • Myofunctional Therapy • Early Intervention • Feeding Therapy • Written Language Disorder Occupational Therapy Services • PROMPT New Programs for CAPD and Executive Function! Language, Play and Social Perspective Groups for HFA and Asperger’s Additional Services

BCBA Supervised Behavioral Programs ABA/AVB Instruction • Home Programming

ARC Provides services to people of all ages with developmental disabilities, some free, some on a sliding fee scale. Early intervention program helps parents identify developmental delays in infant children. VIsit www.arcnj.org for local chapter info. www.thearc.org • The ARC of Essex 123 Naylon Ave., Livingston, 973-535-1181. www.arcessex.org Infant stimulation program, preschool classes, school for severely disabled, summer day camp, social work info and referral, respite care–in-home and out. • The Arc of Hunterdon County The Concourse at Beaver Brook, 1465 Route 31 Annandale, 908-730-7827. www.archunterdon.org • The Arc of Middlesex 219 Black Horse Lane, North Brunswick, 732-821-1199. www.arc-middlesex.org • The Arc of Morris County PO Box 123, Morris Plains, NJ 07950, 973-326-9750. Developmental Day Care, Arc Training and Conference Center, Campus of College of St. Elizabeth, Convent Station, www.arcmorris.org Early childhood enrichment (for children 0-3), developmental day care, preschool activities, adaptive recreation, adult training and supported employment, parent support groups and supportive living. • The Arc of Somerset 141 South Main St., Manville, 908-725-8544. www.thearcofsomerset.org Full range of SLP, OT and PT services for children. The center houses a developmental daycare, private preschool and preschool disabled program. • The Arc of Union 52 Fadem Rd., Springfield, 973-315-0000. www.arcunion.org Childcare and preschool in Cranford serving infants to 5 yrs., private school in Mountainside for ages 3-9. Summer day camp, recreation, after school program, Saturday program, hotel respite and in-home respite.

Ben Samuels Children's Center at Montclair State University Early intervention program, serving suburban Essex County towns, provides services for families and their children from

birth until age 3 who demonstrate developmental delays. To schedule an evaluation, call Special Child Health Services at 973-395-8836.

Bethel Ridge Learning Center 175 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-221-0801. See listing under Enrichment – Special Needs.

Family Link 2333 Morris Ave., Suite A-204, Union, 908-964-5303. A network of services and supports for the families of children birth to 3 years old residing in Essex, Morris, Sussex, Union and Warren Counties. If your infant/toddler is having difficulty crawling, walking, talking, seeing, hearing, feeding, following directions or relating to other people, your child may qualify for early intervention services.

Learning Rx Chester, Cherry Hill, Marlboro, Short Hills, Warren locations. See display ad on page 186 and complete listing under Education Services. www.LearningRx.com

Metropolitan Speech & Language Center 66 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-994-4468. Email: therapy@metspeechnj.com. We provide therapy for children (ages 1 to young adults) with a variety of communication and feeding disorders including: articulation, oral motor, apraxia, language, social skills, PDD, stuttering and auditory processing. We use the most advanced techniques such as PROMPT and iPad apps. We have groups too! All speech-language pathologists have ASHA certification and NJ licensure. Blue Cross providers. Monday through Saturday hours.

Positive Steps Pediatric Occupational Therapy Center 66 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Ste. 204, Livingston, 973-9944464, email: info@positivestepsot.com. Positive Steps is a Pediatric Occupational Therapy center providing one-toone and group therapy in a fun, friendly environment. Specializing in sensory processing disorder, therapeutic listening, yoga and much more. www.positivestepsot.com

164

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

special needs THERAPEUTIC SERVICES Stepping Forward Counseling Center 26 Main St., Chatham, 973-635-6550. An innovative mental health facility for children with depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, ODD, bi-polar and other clinically based diagnoses. Programs include after school social skills, autism ABA, teen life, partial care and parents are teachers. See display ad on page 3. www.steppingforwardcounselingcenter.com

Talk Time 20 Elm St., Morristown, 973-271-8387. Talk Time provides evaluation and treatment services to the pediatric population for a range of communication disorders using innovative methods based on the latest research. Call today for a free consultation. www.talktimenj.com

TeamHope, P.C. 231 US Hwy 206 South, Bedminster, 908-375-8237. Full service pediatric specialty practice serves families with children who have a wide range of challenges. In addition to assessment and diagnoses, TeamHope provides individualized care plans for each child based on our Clinical Director’s extensive clinical experience. Therapies may include speech/language, feeding, myofunctional therapy, PROMPT, sensory integration, occupational therapy, physical therapy, play therapy, social thinking groups, verbal behavior, home programs and ABA instruction. With a commitment to a developmentally based philosophy, and education and training in behavioral analysis, TeamHope is adept at combining the best of both the developmental and behavioral approaches. TeamHope maintains a dedicated, highly trained and specialized staff with expertise in their chosen fields. TeamHope provides therapeutic services to the pediatric population with a focus on autism/PDD, apraxia, motor speech disorders, fine and gross motor delays, sensory disorders, phonological/articulation disorders, and feeding therapy. Our academically based services address a range of issues including written language disorders, CAPD, Executive Function, Literacy and learning disabilities. Insurance accepted. www.teamhope.com

Tiny Tots Therapy 908-380-7715. Home-based, center-based, school-based physical, occupational and speech therapy. Early intervention program, custom therapeutic sensory gyms and pediatric equipment. Insurance accepted. Summer camp for ages 4-9. Social skills and sensory motor groups. See display ad on page 179. www.tinytotstherapyinc.com

CHILD CARE ARC Provides services to people of all ages with developmental disabilities, some free, some on a sliding fee scale. Early intervention program helps parents identify developmental delays in infant children. VIsit www.arcnj.org for local chapter info. www.thearc.org

FOr aLL yOur PEdiaTriC OCCuPaTiONaL THEraPy NEEds specializing in:

Fine Motor, Sensory Processing Disorder, Developmental Delays, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and much more.

Providing 1:1 Treatment and Group Programs Phone: 973.994.4464 Email: info@positivestepsot.com • The ARC of Essex 123 Naylon Ave., Livingston, 973-535-1181. www.arcessex.org • The Arc of Hunterdon County The Concourse at Beaver Brook, 1465 Route 31 Annandale, 908-730-7827. www.archunterdon.org • The Arc of Middlesex 219 Black Horse Lane, North Brunswick, 732-821-1199. www.arc-middlesex.org • The Arc of Morris County PO Box 123, Morris Plains, NJ 07950, 973-326-9750. www.arcmorris.org Developmental Day Care, Campus of College of St. Elizabeth, Convent Station, 973-765-9661. • The Arc of Somerset 141 South Main St., Manville, 908-725-8544. www.thearcofsomerset.org Jerry Davis Early Childhood Center, 141 S. Main St., Manville, 908-725-2266. Quality, affordable daycare and preschool services to children 18 mos. to 6 yrs. www.thearcofsomerset.org/programs • The Arc of Union 52 Fadem Rd., Springfield, 973-315-0000. www.arcunion.org ARC Bright Beginnings Child Development Center, 135 Dermody St. in Cranford, serves infants to 5 yrs.; ARC Kohler School, 1137 Globe Ave. in Mountainside, serves ages 3-9 yrs.

SPECIAL EDUCATION Refer to the Education category on page 184 and online at www.kidsguidenj.com for a list of special education schools and see Education Services to locate resources for testing services, tutoring and information about learning disabilities.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

ADULT EDUCATION Not just for kids…be sure to check the listings under Enrichment, Museums, Theatre, Music & Dance and Outdoors to find many activities for adults, too.

165

NCJW Center for Women 70 South Orange Ave., Suite 120, Livingston, 973-994-4994. We offer a safe and affordable place to go for help when faced with life changes. Support groups; career planning and placement; legal and financial guidance; computer classes; workshops. All programs nonsectarian. Volunteer opportunities available. www.centerforwomenNJ.org

Palermo Show Stable BUSINESS/EMPLOYMENT

Small Business Development Center Raritan Valley Community College @ Bridgewater, 14 Vogt Dr., Bridgewater, 908-526-1200 ext. 8516. Free and confidential business counseling for all areas of business operations is offered. www.sbdcrvcc.com

E N R I C H M E N T, F I T N E S S & F U N

1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500, 210-8605688. See listing under Outdoors–Horseback Riding.

F I N A N C I A L / L E G A L A S S I S TA N C E

NCJW Center for Women 70 South Orange Ave., Suite 120, Livingston, 973-994-4994. See ad and listing under Parent Education. We offer a safe and affordable place to go for help when faced with life changes. Provides clients with a confidential consultation with a professional to discuss how best to approach their legal and financial concerns. All programs nonsectarian. Volunteer opportunities available. www.centerforwomenNJ.org

PA R E N T I N G

Adult Schools See listing above under Enrichment.

Adult Schools

Advocates for Children of New Jersey

Community adult schools offer a wide variety of interesting courses and workshops for personal enrichment and growth. Brochures are typically mailed to area residents prior to registration in Sept. and Jan. or available online. • The Adult School & The Jointure 973-443-9222 www.theadultschool.org • County College of Morris Enrichment www.ccm.edu 973-328-5187 • Morris Community School 973-292-2063 www.ssreg.com/mcs • Morris Hills School of Adult and Continuing Education www.mhcontinuingedu.com 973-664-2296 • Raritan Valley Community College 908-526-1200 www.raritanval.edu/cce/index.html • South Orange Maplewood Adult 973-378-7620 www.ssreg.com/som • Union County College Cont Ed 908-709-7600 www.ucc.edu • Westfield Adult School 908-232-4050 www.westfieldadultschool.com

35 Halsey St., 2nd floor, Newark, 973-643-3876. Independent, non-profit organization advocates for children through research of issues, legal analysis and education of policymakers and the public. Kidlaw.org provides online information on current children’s issues and the law. www.kidlaw.org

Elefante School for the Performing Arts 1790 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-464-5928. A full service music store specializing in teaching students of all ages. We offer private lessons, group lessons, jazz ensembles and summer camps. Top quality band and orchestra instruments for rental or purchase. www.elefantemusic.com

Frelinghuysen Arboretum 53 E. Hanover Ave. (Rt. 511), Morris Township, 973326-7601. Adult workshops in horticulture, crafts and cooking demonstrations are offered throughout the year.

American Red Cross CPR, Community First Aid & Safety and grandparenting courses may be offered. • American Red Cross of Central New Jersey Chapter, 707 Alexander Rd., Suite 101, Princeton, 609-951-8550. • American Red Cross of Northern NJ, 29 Elm St., Morristown, 973-538-2160. • Colonial Crossroads Chapter, 695 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-273-2076. • Greater Somerset County Chapter, 14 W. Cliff St., Somerville, 908-725-2217. • Millburn-Short Hills Chapter, 389 Millburn Ave., 973379-4198. • Raritan Valley Chapter, 321 Elm St., 908-232-7090.

Atlantic Health System Community Classes & Events 1-800-247-9580; 908-522-2946. Free health and parent education programs on many issues related to pregnancy, infant care, nutrition, families and children are offered year round. Visit www.AtlanticHealth.org under “Classses & Events” to access calendar.

Atlantic Training Center Atlantic Health Hospitals, 908-522-2323. Offers EMT training; ALS education for paramedics and other advanced life support providers; and CPR and first aid training to community groups, businesses and the general public at Atlantic Health Hospitals or on-site locations. www.atlanticambulance.org

166

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

parents place PA R E N T I N G E D U C AT I O N

EmpoweringParents.com A website and weekly newsletter offering parenting articles and advice from noted experts on tough problems parents face with their kids.

NJParentLink.nj.gov New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services website provides information about state services and resources related to early childhood, maternity and family leaves, child care and other parenting issues. www.njparentlink.nj.gov

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital One Robert Wood Johnson Place, New Brunswick, 732828-3000. New parent class offered monthly at Fitness and Wellness Center, 888-637-9584. www.rwjuh.edu

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Parenting newsletter and workshops available through county extension offices. http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/ • Essex County 973-228-3785 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland essex.njaes.rutgers.edu • Hunterdon County 908-788-1340 6 Gaunt Pl., Bldg. 2, Flemington www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/depts/rutgers/rutgers.htm • Morris County 973-285-8300 County Bldg. 550, West Hanover Ave., Morristown morris.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h • Somerset County 908-526-6644 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater somerset.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h • Union County 908-654-9854 300 North Ave. East, Westfield.

Saint Barnabas Medical Center Old Short Hills Rd., Livingston, 973-322-5360. Education classes and support groups for new parents, families and those touched by specific illnesses or health issues. Visit website for current calendar under "community services." www.saintbarnabas.com

Somerset Medical Center 110 Rehill Ave., Somerville, 908-704-3766. Seminars, classes, support groups and screenings offered for all ages. Maternal Child Health programs include moms support group, Baby Basics, breastfeeding, sibling preparation and childbirth preparation classes.

Summit Area YMCA Community Development Programs 67 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-3330 x1186. Health, career, SAT, college, nutrition and other topics are the focus of workshops and lectures offered to the community.

Summit Medical Group 1 Diamond Hill Rd., Berkeley Heights, 908-274-4300. Free lectures and events offered throughout the year on health, first aid, parenting and fitness topics. www.summitmedicalgroup.com/events

Ys Check with your local Y for American Heart Association CPR, American Red Cross First Aid and Safety classes and parent workshops offered throughout the year.

V O T E R & C O N S U M E R I N F O R M AT I O N

Charitynavigator.org Provides free information and evaluations of the financial health of over 5,000 charities to help donors make intelligent giving decisions.

Consumer Affairs Division – New Jersey Before hiring a contractor, consumers can check whether the contractor is registered, has been the subject of consumer complaints and whether Consumer Affairs has taken any action against the contractor via the online database at www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/LVinfo.htm or by calling 800-242-5846.

CouponCabin.com, RetailMeNot.com, Savings.com Before making an online purchase, check these consolidators of coupon codes submitted by retailers and users for possible discounts. Retailmenot provides a coupon code without direct link to vendor website. VIsit Coupons.com for printable grocery coupons.

Factcheck.org A project of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, factcheck.org monitors the factual accuracy of what is said by major U.S. political players by applying the best practices of journalism and scholarship in order to increase public knowledge and understanding. PolitiFact.com is a similar project of the Tampa Bay Times and partners to help sort out the truth in politics.

OnGuardOnline.gov Provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help guard against internet fraud, secure computers and protect personal information.

Snopes.com Before you forward on those questionable emails, check the facts at snopes.com, the Internet reference source for urban legends, folklore, myths, rumor and misinformation.

Thomas.gov The Library of Congress site makes federal legislative information available to the public. Its content includes the text of bills, resolutions and treaties, roll call votes, the Congressional Record, committee information, Presidential nominations, historical information, links to government resources and activities and lesson plans for teachers.

TownStats.org Non-profit, non-partisan online database is designed to give New Jersey citizens access to important information about their town, its budget and taxes in a format that makes it easy to compare with other towns.

USA.gov Easy-to-navigate website answers your questions about government—forms, jobs, agencies, vital records, benefits, grants, unclaimed money, voting and more.

Vote411.org Everything you need to know about upcoming elections including candidate information, ballot measures, voter registration information and polling place locator sponsored by League of Women Voters Education Fund.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

VoteSmart.org 1-888-868-3762. Website provides citizens access to candidates’ voting records, biographical information, issue positions, interest group ratings, public statements and campaign finance information. OpenSecrets.org tracks money in U.S. politics through campaign contributions and lobbying data.

WhiteHouse.gov Keep tabs on the President, Vice-President and featured legislation at this site. Use GovTrack.us to keep tabs on representatives in Congress or to research pending legislation.

MOMS GROUPS / PLAYGROUPS See Support Groups for more opportunities for Mom’s time-out and additional support and play groups. Enter your zip code at meetup.com, a well-established network of local special interest groups, including moms groups and playgroups. Find a group already meeting up or organize a new one. www.meetup.com

Holistic Moms Network PO Box 408, Caldwell, NJ 07006, 877-HOL-MOMS. info@ holisticmoms.org. Consult website for local chapters, www.holisticmoms.org. Non-profit organization dedicated to supporting moms with an interest in natural health and holistic parenting. Local chapters have monthly meetings, playgroups and social events.

MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club www.momsclub.org. National support group for at-home mothers holds monthly meetings, playdays, outings, activity groups, babysitting co-ops, mom’s night out and more. Visit national website to locate your local group or start a new chapter.

Morristown Moms and Tots and More www.bigtent.com/groups/motownmomtot. A subset of the Burnham Park Association, group members plan playdates, nature walks, moms night out, day with dad, dads night out and field trips.

Mothers and More www.mothersandmore.org. National support/social group for women dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy is open to stayat-home and working moms of all ages and stages. Guest speakers, discussion groups, book clubs, mom-n-tot outings, mom’s night out, playgroups and social events are some typical activities. Visit website to find your local group or to start a new chapter.

Mothers’ Center of Central New Jersey P.O. Box 7, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, 908-561-1751. Email: mccnj@westfieldnj.com. Non-profit, non-sectarian organization founded in 1978 provides friendship, education, outreach and support for parents. Day and evening discussion groups and craft groups, book clubs, morning and afternoon playgroups and special events. Childcare available during daytime events. http://cnj.motherscenter.org

Mothers of Preschoolers Club (MOPS) 908-719-1093, email mops@gfcnj.com. An inviting environment where women can come to build friendships, be pampered, encouraged and gain practical parenting strategies.

167

Meetings are held at Grace Fellowship Chapel, 375 Main St., Bedminster, on Tuesday mornings from 9:30-11am with childcare provided. Special summer schedule. www.gfcnj.com, click on “ministries” for info.

Newcomers Clubs/Welcome Wagon www.newcomersclub.com, for a directory of Newcomers Clubs, women’s groups, moms clubs and dads organizations throughout New Jersey and nationwide. • Chatham Borough Newcomers’ Club. www.chatham newcomers.com. Monthly activities for families include bookclub, ladies and couples nights out, seasonal parties, children’s play groups, men’s pick-up basketball games. “Welcome Coffees” held third Thurs. of every month. • Chatham Township Newcomers’ Club. Ladies luncheons and dinners, playgroups, progressive dinners, book discussion, crafts, family activities, bingo, day trips, couples activities, gardening group, newsletter. www.newcomersclub.com • Newcomers’ Club of Cranford. Open to women who reside in Cranford, Kenilworth or Garwood. Social events for couples, progressive dinner, teas, children’s playgroups, parties, outings, monthly meetings. www.meetup.com/ Cranford-Newcomers • Glen Rock Newcomers & Neighbors. Hosts local events, kids activities, volunteer events, more. Open to couples, singles & families. www.glenrocknewcomers.com • Hillsborough Montgomery Welcomer’s Club. www.hmwc.blogspot.com. Open to all women residing in Hillsborough and Montgomery. • Welcome Wagon Club of Madison and Florham Park. Playgroups, babysitting co-op, social activities, special interest groups. For information: www.rosenet.org, www.florhamparkboro.net. • Newcomers & Neighbors of Morristown & Area. www.newcomersfnmorristown.org. Open to anyone in the Morristown area. Moms & Tots, bridge, book club and other special interest groups. • Newcomers Club of Mountainside. www.mountain sidenewcomers.org. Mommy ’n me, ladies’ night out, couples’ activities. • Newcomers and Neighbors’ Club of Randolph. www.nnrandolph.org for events and membership application. Monthly meetings on the 3rd Wed. from 7-9pm in the Randolph Senior Center on Calais Rd. Activities include playgroups, coffees, bookclubs, babysitting co-ops as well as ladies social clubs, dinner clubs, community service projects and family events. • Scotch Plains-Fanwood Newcomers' Club. www.spfnewcomers.com. Playgroups, walking groups, book discussion, movies, cooking, community service, parent/child field trips, weekend family events and evening social outings for men, women and couples. New members always welcome. • Newcomers and Neighbors Club of Short Hills and Millburn. Social events and family events include playgroups, book groups, wine tasting and women’s nights out. www.newcomersneighbors.org. • Newcomers and Neighbors of Somerset Hills. www.nnshclub.org. Moms and tots playgroups, activity and special interest groups, ladies night out and day trips. • South Orange and Maplewood. Box 1220, Maplewood, NJ 07040. General meeting 7:45pm 1st Wed. Sept.-June at Morrow Memorial Methodist Church, Maplewood. Groups include wine experience, board games, children’s playgroups, book discussion, men’s poker, international night and more.

168

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

parents place MOMS GROUPS / PLAYGROUPS Newcomers Clubs/Welcome Wagon continued • Newcomers Club of Summit, New Providence and Berkeley Heights. Moms and Tots outings, playgroups, babysitting co-ops, tennis, bridge, men’s and ladies’ night out, book groups, couples dinners. www.njnewcomersclub.com • Newcomers and Friends Club of Washington Twp. Monthly meetings 7:30pm on the 2nd Tues. Sept.-June at Schooley’s Mountain Firehouse. Arts & crafts, bridge, book groups, child, family and couples’ activities.

ADOPTION Adoptive Parents Committee PO Box 725, Ridgewood, NJ 07451. Non-profit support and education organization offers pre- and post-adoption workshops, monthly meetings at FDU –Hackensack, newsletter, social events, play groups and annual conference in November. www.adoptiveparents.org

Children’s Aid & Family Services Inc. 76 S. Orange Ave., Suite 209, South Orange, 973-763-2041. Loving, adoptive homes needed for infants and school-age children. Therapeutic foster parents also needed.

Children’s & Family Services Programs 200 Robin Rd., Paramus, 201-261-2800. Confidential postadoption counseling services offered free of charge to families with children up to 18 years old. Birth parent support group meets monthly for birth parents who are contemplating adoption, have placed children, or are in the process of search and reunion.

Concerned Persons for Adoption Every Child Deserves a Family CPFA is a non-profit volunteer support group that offers pre and post adoption educational programs. Meets in Morris County, NJ. For information about upcoming programs and social events, visit our website or call

• Welcome Wagon of Watchung Hills. www. warrennj.org, under “Civic Organizations.” Monthly meetings, playgroups, activities for women and couples. • Westfield Welcome Club. PO Box 852, Westfield, NJ 07090, www.westfieldwelcomeclub.org. Open to women in the Westfield area. Children’s playgroups, children’s parties, ladies’ “escape” nights, monthly dinners, community service, couples activities. • Newcomers Club of Westfield. www.meetup.com/ westfieldnewcomers. Playgroups, family holiday parties, Mom’s sanity night, field trips, activities for couples, activity groups, monthly dinner meetings.

Concerned Persons for Adoption 908-273-5694. Volunteer organization, open to anyone concerned with adoption, provides education, support and social opportunities to those who wish to adopt and to those who have adopted. See website for event schedule and locations. www.cpfanj.org

KinKonnect 877-KLG-LINE (877-554-5463). An Information Center for Kinship Care families. Services include an empathic listener when you call, resources for families such as support groups, free lending library, newsletter, training workshops and comprehensive website. Resources to free kinship legal counseling for families that obtained KLG through the Division of Youth and Family Services. www.kinkonnect.org

Morristown Post-Adoption Support Group 973-267-8698, 973-455-1268. Support group affiliated with NJ Coalition for Adoption Education and Reform and American Adoption Congress meets monthly in Morristown. Adoptive parents, birth parents, adoptees, professionals and significant others welcome. Email: janenast@aol.com. www.nj-care.org

NEW JERSEY ADOPTION RESOURCE CLEARING HOUSE

www.njarch.org

The one-stop resource for those touched by adoption. • Information and Resources • Free Post-Adoption Counseling call: 877.4.ARCHNJ (877.427.2465) e-mail: warmline@njarch.org For information on Kinship Legal Guardianship

visit www.kinkonnect.org

908.273.5694 Contact us through website:

www.cpfanj.org

CHILDREN’S AID AND FAMILY SERVICES www.cafsnj.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

169

health & family New Jersey Adoption Resource Clearing House – NJ ARCH The One-Stop Resource for those Touched by Adoption. Services include an empathetic listener when you call, resources to support groups, mental health and medical professionals, adoption agencies and listing of local adoption related events. Lending library, buddy family and adoption support group advocacy available. Contact the Warm Line at 877-4-ARCHNJ (877-427-2465). www.njarch.org

Spence-Chapin Adoption Resource Center Unitarian Church of Montclair, 67 Church St., Montclair, 212-360-0259. Post-adoption service provides continuing education and support for everyone involved in adoption through a series of workshops and speakers during the school year. www.spence-chapin.org

www.AdoptiveFamilies.com National adoption magazine and website provides valuable information to pre- and post-adoptive families.

Children Helping Children Counseling Center for Human Development, 201 Lincoln Ave. E., Cranford, 908-276-0590. Helps children ages 5-18 cope with the breakup of their parents’ marriage through artwork, storytelling and discussion.

Club Sib Children’s Specialized Hospital, 150 New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 1-888-244-5373 ext. 5488. Recreational groups for ages 6-17 offer support for siblings of children with special needs.

Good Grief 38 Elm St., Morristown, 908-522-1999, info@good-grief.org. Non-profit organization provides free, year-round peer grief support programs for children and teens, ages three to 18, who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or other significant person. Groups for parents and guardians, young adults age 18-30, and educational workshops for the community are also available. www.good-grief.org

Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss FOSTER CARE

Catholic Charities Therapeutic Foster Care 1-866-247-HOME . Individuals, families and homemakers of all ethnicities and religions are needed to provide therapeutic foster care, short term foster care and emergency care to babies 0-6 months and children 5-18.

New Jersey Department of Children and Families 1-877-NJFOSTER, www.njfoster.org; 1-800-99 ADOPT, www.njadopt.org. Relative, foster and adoptive families needed for New Jersey children who need families that are loving, stable and safe.

CHILDREN’S GROUPS Child & Teen Success Centers 615 Sherwood Parkway (convenient to Rt. 22), Mountainside, 908-232-6432. See listing under Psychotherapy.

1 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-264-3100, support@imaginenj.org. Offers free year-round peer grief support groups for children ages 3-18 and young adults 18-30, who have had a parent or sibling die, or who are coping with loss due to terminal or chronic illness. Concurrent groups are held for parents and guardians, as well as adult support groups for adults without children in the program. Dinner is provided and groups meet from 6:30-8:15pm. www.imaginenj.org

Social Sensory Connections iCan Consultants, LLC, 973-826-0016, email info@ socialsensoryconnections.com. Social skills groups for children ages 3-4, 5-6 and 7-9, are led by a licensed speech therapist and occupational therapist with 17 years combined experience in language development, sensory differences and individual regulation needs. Through fun, structured activities, children develop language skills, socialization and self-awareness. Ongoing weekly sessions are held at Unitarian Church of Montclair, 67 Church St. www.socialsensoryconnections.com

CHILD & TEEN SUCCESS CENTERS www.childrensuccess.com Psychotherapy for Young People, Ages 4-24

www.kinkonnect.org

An Information Center for Kinship Families • Information and Resources • Free KLG Counseling call: 877-KLG-LINE (877-554-5463) email: warmline@kinkonnect.org

DOES YOUR CHILD NEED A BEHAVIORAL COACH? Our center specializes in: • Attention Deficit Disorder • Anger Management • Social Skills & Bully-Proofing • School Underachievement • Disrespectful Defiant Behavior • Groups

Your child will gain: • Self-Control & Focus • Improved Mood • Self-Esteem & Confidence • Motivation & Direction • Respect for Others

Dr. Steven Sussman, Psychologist 615 Sherwood Parkway, Mountainside

www.cafsnj.org

908-232-6432 Participates with most insurance, including Medicaid.

170

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

health & family Atlantic Health System

CHILDREN’S GROUPS “Social Skills” by Susan Mendelson, MSW, LSW 1112 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-301-0900. Can my child respect others’ space, make new friends, maintain a conversation, take turns without interrupting? These “Social Skills” can be learned and taught at any age. The right kind of intervention can have great impact on the child’s development and self-esteem. Group and individual sessions available. www.njsocialskills.com

TeamHope, P.C. 231 US Hwy 206 South, Bedminster, 908-375-8237. See listing under Therapeutic Services and display ad on page 163. www.teamhope.com

Tiny Tots Therapy 908.380-7715. Social skills and sensory motor groups include Superhero, handwriting, yoga and Sports Stars. Homebased, center-based, school-based physical, occupational and speech therapy. Early intervention program, custom therapeutic sensory gyms and pediatric equipment. See display ad on page 179. www.tinytotstherapyinc.com

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES HealthCareBlueBook.com Enter medical service and zip code and the average fee providers in the area accept as payment from an insurance company is given. Check “Resources for Patients” for additional helpful information. HealthGrades.com Health care ratings organization provides ratings and profiles of hospitals, nursing homes and physicians to consumers, corporations, health plans and hospitals.

Check the websites of area hospitals to find community programs on health, fitness, parenting and wellness topics. Most are free and open to the public.

www.atlantichealth.org • Morristown Medical Center 100 Madison Ave., Morristown, 973-971-5000. • Overlook Medical Center 99 Beauvoir Ave., Summit, 908-522-2000. • Newton Medical Center 175 High St., Newton, 973-383-2121. • Goryeb Children's Hospital 100 Madison Ave., Morristown, 973-971-5000.

Barnabas Health Visit www.barnabashealth.org for facilities throughout New Jersey.

CentraState Healthcare System 901 W. Main St., Freehold, 732-431-2000. www.centrastate.com

The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital 254 Easton Ave., New Brunswick, 732-745-8600. www.saintpetershcs.com

Children’s Specialized Hospital 150 New Providence Rd., Mountainside; 94 Stevens Rd., Toms River; 310 Main St., Toms River; 3575 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton; 316 W. Westfield Ave., Roselle Park; 200 Somerset St., New Brunswick; 1-888-CHILDREN (244-5373). Children’s provides specialized care for children with chronic illnesses as well as evaluation and treatment for common childhood developmental concerns. www.childrens-specialized.org

Hackensack University Medical Center 30 Prospect Ave., Hackensack, 201-996-2000. www.hackensackumc.org

Matheny Medical and Educational Center 65 Highland Ave., PO Box 339, Peapack, 908-234-0011, ext. 237 or 785. A special hospital for children and adults with medically complex developmental disabilities and an outpatient center for people with all kinds of disabilities. www.matheny.org

Social Skills for Children Do you feel that your child may need help recognizing the skills necessary to participate in social situations? Individual and Group Sessions Available Office located in Mountainside

For more information, call 908-301-0900 www.njsocialskills.com

Susan Mendelson, MSW, LSW

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital One Robert Wood Johnson Place, New Brunswick, 732828-3000. For information about fitness and wellness events open to the public, call 888-637-9584. www.rwjuh.edu

Shriners Hospitals for Children Philadelphia, 800-281-4050; North America, 800-237-5055. A network of 22 pediatric specialty hospitals, founded by the Shrine, provide expert, no-cost orthopaedic and burn care to children under 18. www.shrinershq.org

Somerset Medical Center

171

educational consultations. All of our audiologists hold master’s or doctoral degrees and State of New Jersey licenses. Speech and Hearing Associates provides complete audiological services including central auditory processing evaluations and speech language evaluations and therapy for children through adults. Since 1969, our licensed, certified speech and language pathologists and audiologists have been helping children communicate better. We participate with most insurance plans. For more information or to find the location nearest you, call 800-SHA-7551. Speech and Hearing Associates can help your child live a happier and more fulfilling life.

110 Rehill Ave., Somerville, 908-685-2200. www.somersetmedicalcenter.com

Summit Medical Group Berkeley Heights Main Campus: 1 Diamond Hill Rd., Berkeley Heights, 908-273-4300. www.summitmedicalgroup.com

University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro Princeton HealthCare System, One Plainsboro Rd., Plainsboro, 609-853-7000; Information Desk 609-853-6006. www.princetonhcs.org

Well-Child Clinics

www.KIDSGUIDENJ.COM One website for quick links to thousands of events, activities and services for New Jersey families!

It’s a New Year! Call Now to Schedule your Appointment.

Program administered by local Board of Health provides routine immunizations and annual physicals at no charge for children up to age 7 who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover well visits. Call your community Board of Health for further information.

HEALTH EDUCATION MUSEUM Adventure to Health CentraState Healthcare System, Ambulatory Campus, 901 W. Main St., Freehold, 732-308-1850. Weekdays 11-4 when schools are not in session, weekends by appointment. To schedule class trips or scout groups, call 732-308-1850. Adults & ages 6 & older $8. Visitors enter a human torso and learn about the human body through 19 interactive stations focused on body systems, safety, fitness and healthy food choices. Recommended for ages 6 and older. Birthday parties.

HEALTH PROFESSIONALS AUDIOLOGY

Speech Therapy Pediatric Audiology

To Schedule an Appointment, call:

800-742-7551 Most insurance accepted.

SpeechAndHearingAssoc.Com

172

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

health & family HEALTH PROFESSIONALS O C C U PAT I O N A L T H E R A P Y

Positive Steps Pediatric Occupational Therapy Center 66 W. Mnt. Pleasant Ave., Ste. 204, Livingston, 973-9944464, email: info@positivestepsot.com. Positive Steps is a Pediatric Occupational Therapy center providing one-toone and group therapy in a fun, friendly environment. Specializing in sensory processing disorder, therapeutic listening, yoga and much more. www.positivestepsot.com

TeamHope, P.C. 231 US Hwy 206 South, Bedminster, 908-375-8237. See listing under Therapeutic Services and display ad on page 163. www.teamhope.com

Tiny Tots Therapy 908.380-7715. Home-based, center-based, school-based physical, occupational and speech therapy. Early intervention program, custom therapeutic sensory gyms and pediatric equipment. Insurance accepted. Summer camp for ages 4-9. Social skills and sensory motor groups. See display ad on page 179. www.tinytotstherapyinc.com

P E D I AT R I C D E N T I S T R Y

Westfield Pediatric Dental Group 555 Westfield Ave., Westfield, 908-232-1231. Specializing in preventive dental care for children and young adults. Our office is totally committed to healthy, happy smiles. Let us teach your child lifelong healthy, dental habits. New patients welcome. See display ad on page 174.

P E D I AT R I C S

Allyson Agathis, MD, FAAP 395 Main St., Bedminster, 908-719-2626. A different pediatric experience, a return to personal care and individual attention. State-of-the-art-diagnostics; hearing and vision screening starting with infants; HCFA-CLIA certified inoffice laboratory. Insurance forms automatically completed by office for your reimbursement.

The Pediatric Center 556 Central Ave., New Providence, 908-508-0400. Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5, Sat. & Sun. for emergencies. Steven Moskowitz, M.D., F.A.A.P., Kathleen L. Chin, M.D., F.A.A.P., Eunhee Shih, M.D., F.A.A.P., Denise Visci, M.D., F.A.A.P., Debra Neretich, R.N., N.P.C., Marie Morton, R.N., A.P.N. Convenient, centrally located office five minutes from the Short Hills Mall, Blue Star Shopping Center and downtown Chatham. The office features separate sick and well waiting and play areas and an on-site laboratory. We have urgent care appointments available on weekends and holidays as well as evening appointments and prenatal/new patient

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

173

Tired of waiting an hour to spend 10 minutes with the doctor…? Pediatrics...with a difference

• As much time with the doctoras you need • Available 7 days - 24 hours • Speak directly with the doctor

• Preservative-free Flu Vaccine • Comfortable caring atmosphere • State-of-the-Art Diagnostics ■ ■ ■ ■

■

Spirometry ■ Audiometry Titmus Vision Screening Tympanometry Welch Allyn Sure Sight Vision Screening (from 6 months old) On-site HCFA/CLIA certified laboratory

interviews. We offer walk-in hours from 8:30am-12:30pm and 2-6pm Monday-Thursday and 8:30am-12:30pm and 24:30pm on Friday for existing patients. We participate in most major insurance plans and have privileges at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Overlook Hospital and Morristown Memorial Hospital. Now offering New Baby class. www.pedcenter.com

Watchung Pediatrics 76 Stirling Rd., Suite 201, Warren, (908) 755-KIDS; 346 South Ave., Suite 3, Fanwood, 908-889-TOTS (8687); 225 Millburn Ave., Suite 301, Millburn, 973-376-PEDS (7337). The Warren office is located near Watchung Hills High School. Separate well and sick waiting rooms; new open access hours for simple acute illnesses or injuries; most insurances accepted. www.watchungpediatrics.com

aLLysON aGaTHis, Md, FaaP Board Certified in Pediatrics 395 Main street, Bedminster (next to Far Hills Pharmacy)

(908) 719-2626

Pediatrics and adolescent Medicine PSYCHOTHERAPY

Child & Teen Success Centers 615 Sherwood Parkway (convenient to Rt. 22), Mountainside, 908-232-6432. Psychotherapy for young people ages 4-24 by warm, caring specialists Steve Sussman, PhD, and Larry Isaacs, CSW. Specializing in ADD & PDD, anger management, difficult kids and teens, self-esteem and social skills groups. Participates with most insurance, including Medicaid.

Youth and Family Counseling Service 233 Prospect St., Westfield, 908-233-2042. Private, non-profit center offers professional “family systems”-based pschological counseling, prevention, education, crisis intervention and supportive services to all income levels. www.yfcsnj.org

SOCIAL WORK PHYSICAL THERAPY

TeamHope, P.C. 231 US Hwy 206 South, Bedminster, 908-375-8237. See listing under Therapeutic Services and display ad on page 163. www.teamhope.com

Cornerstone Family Programs 62 Elm St., Morristown, 973-538-5260. Provides counseling, education, advocacy and support to children, families and seniors in Morris County. cornerstonefamilyprograms.org

4 Board Certified Pediatricians that count on each other with one goal in mind:

Your Child’s Health New Expanded Office Hours! All Day Walk-in Availability New Baby Class

P O D I AT R Y

Clark Podiatry Center 1114 Raritan Rd., Clark, 732-382-3470. Foot and ankle specialist for the entire family. Surgical and non-surgical answers for your foot care needs. Laser treatment for fungal nail conditions. Visit our website for more information and video answers. www.clarkpodiatry.com

Please support these fine advertisers who serve our families and communities and please mention you saw them in the Kids’ Guide.

Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs: 8:30am-12:30pm & 2:00pm-6:00pm Fri: 8:30am-12:30pm & 2:00-4:30pm Our practice handles everything from regular checkups to early detection of autism, developmental delays and all issues between. We have a complete lab on premises. We’re here to listen to you, to answer your questions clearly and to give you peace of mind. NJ’s Favorite Kids’ Docs 2009 Meet our new doctor Eunhee (Emily) Shih, M.D. Steven Moskowitz, M.D. Kathleen L. Chin, M.D. Denise Visci, M.D.

556 Central Avenue New Providence 908.508.0400 • pedcenter.com

174

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

health & family HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

interpersonal relationships. Social Skills Training in either group or individual arenas. www.njsocialskills.com

SOCIAL WORK

Susan Mendelson, MSW, LSW 1112 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-301-0900. Children who effectively use and understand appropriate social skills are more likely to be socially adept and experience close

S P E E C H - L A N G U A G E PAT H O L O G Y

Metropolitan Speech & Language Center 66 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-994-4468. Email: therapy@metspeechnj.com. We provide therapy for children

Westfield Pediatric Dental Group Timothy P. McCabe, D.M.D. Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry

Julie Jong, D.M.D. Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry

John Chang, D.D.S. Kelly Walk, D.D.S. LASER DENTISTRY NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

Dentistry for Infants, Children, Adolescents, and Special Needs

In office IV and General Anesthesia Services by Board Certified Pediatric Anesthesiologists

555 Westfield Avenue • Westfield • NJ • 07090 (908) 232-1231 • www.kidsandsmiles.com

ING IN COM O N! SO

ert Recommended RReecommended Expert Educat onal Toys Toys & Equipment To Equuipment Eq Educational For Parents, Parents Teachers, Teachers & Therapists! T herapists! For

THERAP SSTT RECOMMENDED, RECOMMENDED, THERAPI CHILD TESTED, TESTED PARENT PARENT APPROVED!! APPROVED!! CHI

(908) 967-2421 967 2421 www.therapynookllc.com www.therapynookllc.com

...Where W here education ... ...W education m meets eets fun! Kid’s Gym Kids Kids Blvd d's ggym Blvd kikid's ym anand d ininteractive teractive plplayspace ayspace offers offers kikids ds a ggreat reat plplace ace totoplplay ay anand d socialize so cialize while while de developing veloping skil skills ls inin aa fufun, n, ducational, an eeducational, andd sa safe fe enenvironment. vir

(73 (732) 2) 560-KIDS 560 -KIDS www.kidsblvdgym.com www.kidsblvdgym

CO MN G SO IN ON !

1 25 W 125 ashingto n V Washington alley Ro Valley a d, W Road, ar ren, NJ Warren, NJ 07 059 07059

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

(ages 1 to young adults) with a variety of communication and feeding disorders including: articulation, oral motor, apraxia, language, social skills, PDD, stuttering and auditory processing. We use the most advanced techniques such as PROMPT and iPad apps. We have groups too! All speech-language pathologists have ASHA certification and NJ licensure. Blue Cross providers. Monday through Saturday hours.

Speech & Hearing Associates 1030 St. Georges Ave., Avenel, 732-750-4660; 590 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-313-5335; 784 Chimney Rock Rd., Martinsville, 908-575-0399; 74 Pascack Rd., Ste. 7, Park Ridge 201-775-5699; 477 Rt. 10 East, Suite 204, Randolph, 800-742-7551; 556 Eagle Rock Ave., Ste. 105, Roseland 973-763-2841; 150 Flanagan Way, Secaucus 201578-1999; 121 S. Euclid Ave., Westfield, 908-232-2900; 60 Notch Rd., Woodland Park, 973-785-0696. We provide speech language evaluations and individualized treatments to help your child with any communication disorder including apraxia, phonological disorders, PDD, oral motor, swallowing, articulation, voice, stuttering, social communication, auditory and language processing. Specialized services include: PROMPT, AAC, feeding and speech services can be provided in Spanish, Korean, Hebrew, Russian, Hindu/Urdu, Haitian-Creole, French and Polish. All of our speech language pathologists are certified and hold master’s degrees and State of New Jersey licenses in Speech Language Pathology. Speech and Hearing Associates provides complete audiological services including central auditory processing evaluations and speech language evaluations and therapy for children through adults. Since 1969, our licensed, certified speech and language pathologists and audiologists have been helping children communicate better. We participate with most insurance plans. For more information or to find the location nearest you, call 800-SHA-7551. Speech and Hearing Associates can help your child live a happier and more fulfilling life.

TeamHope, P.C. 231 US Hwy 206 South, Bedminster, 908-375-8237. See listing under Therapeutic Services and display ad on page 163. www.teamhope.com

HOTLINES / INFO LINES AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline – New Jersey 1-800-624-2377. Free referrals, general information, counseling, testing locations, treatment info available 24 hrs.

Bam.gov Website for kids by the Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focuses on topics related to fitness, disease and peer pressure.

ChildrensHospital.org The website of Children’s Hospital of Boston has a search feature for 1,200 childhood illnesses and conditions and provides a tour of the hospital hosted by Arthur, the aardvark. www.childrenshospital.org/arthur

175

Contact We Care 908-232-2880. Active, empathetic listening services by trained volunteers are offered to anyone in distress. For information about volunteering, visit www.contactwecare.org

Domestic Violence Hotline 800-572-SAFE (7233), New Jersey Coalition for Battered Women. www.njcbw.org

KidsHealth www.KidsHealth.org; www.TeensHealth.org. Health education website, a project of The Nemours Foundation established by philanthropist Alfred I. duPont, offers age-appropriate information for parents, teens and children.

MAASA Parent Helpline www.maasa.org. Website created by the Madison Alliance Against Substance Abuse for parents to use for advice regarding youth alcohol and drug abuse.

New Jersey Mental Health Cares 1-866-202-HELP, njmentalhealthcares.org. Mental health information and referral service provides live support 8am to 8pm and online database of New Jersey’s public mental health services.

New Jersey Youth Helpline 888-222-2228 or www.2ndFloor.org. Designed to listen, help and guide youth in addressing challenges, calls are anonymous and confidential except in life-threatening situations.

Parents Anonymous of New Jersey Family Helpline 1-800-THE KIDS, 800-843-5437, 24 hrs., 7 days a week. Trained volunteers of Parents Anonymous help parents work through frustrations before a crisis occurs, offer advice about parenting, and refer to resources in the community. www.pa-of-nj.org

Poison Information and Education System – New Jersey 1-800-222-1222, www.njpies.org. Assistance available 24 hours a day. Teacher guide, children’s activity booklets.

StopBullying.gov Information about bullying, cyberbullying, prevention and ways to respond. Other resources include www.PacerKidsAgainstBullying.org, an animated website for elementary school students, and www.Teens AgainstBullying.org, geared for teens.

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration www.samhsa.gov. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website provides information about mental health and substance abuse and includes a treatment locator.

Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-TALK (8255), www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Tollfree 24-hour call line goes to the nearest crisis center in the network for crisis counseling and mental health referrals.

Union County Rape Crisis Center 300 North Ave. E., Westfield, 908-233-7273. 24 hr. hotline offers support, information and assistance accompanying victims to hospitals, police depts. or court.

176

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

health & family HEALTH SERVICES F I N A N C I A L A S S I S TA N C E

Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund Commission PO Box 700, Trenton, NJ 08625, 800-335-FUND (3863). New Jersey state fund provides financial assistance to families coping with uncovered expenses associated with a child’s illness. Families of any income may qualify and the fund does not limit coverage to specific diseases or diagnoses. www.njcatastrophicfund.org

NJ Family Care 800-701-0710, www.njfamilycare.org. Program of the NJ Department of Human Services provides affordable, quality health insurance to qualified families on a sliding fee scale.

Shriners Hospitals for Children See listing under Health Care Facilities.

ASPERGER SYNDROME

ASPEN www.aspennj.org. Asperger Syndrome Education Network, Inc., a volunteer non-profit organization in New Jersey, provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism) with education, support and advocacy. Chapters meet monthly, alternating parent support meetings with speaker presentations.

ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER/ADHD

ADDitude Magazine 888-762-8475. Print magazine published four times a year and online magazine and forums are an excellent source of information about ADD and learning disabilities. www.additudemag.com

Children with Attention Deficit Disorder SAFETY

Infant Swim New Jersey 908-227-3674, www.infantswimnj.com. Lessons in aquatic self-rescue instruction for infants as young as 6 months to 6+ are offered in Morris, Essex and Middlesex Counties by certified ISR instructors.

Royal Baby Safety Corp. 908-598-0500, Toll free 800-89-ROYAL. Let us help you babyproof your home. We’ve been providing the best safety products at competitive prices and helping parents install them in their homes since 1991. Call today for your free (in most cases), comprehensive, in-home, no obligation, safety evaluation. See display ad on page 11.

SPECIALIZED SERVICES In addition to the services below, check the website links of area hospitals and medical centers under Health Care Facilities to find support groups and community programs on specific health issues, fitness, parenting and wellness topics. Many are free and open to the public.

APRAXIA

Apraxia - kids.org Helpful resources, links, and in-depth articles for families and professionals provided by the Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America (CASANA).

ARTHRITIS

Arthritis Foundation of New Jersey 555 Rt. 1 S., Suite 320, Iselin, 732-283-4300. Information, research updates, drug info and tools to help live better with arthritis. www.arthritis.org

www.KIDSGUIDENJ.COM Visit often for new activities & events!

800-233-4050, www.chadd.org. National organization provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD. Consult website for current chapter information. • Essex County • Meetings 7-9pm on the 3rd Mon. of the month at Lincoln School, 301 Harrison St., Nutley. Adult support group. • Somerset County Consult website for current chapter contact. • Union County union-county@chadd.net • Western Union County 800-233-4050 ext. 121. Meetings 7:30pm Sept.-June on the 1st Wed. of the month at Children’s Specialized Hospital, New Providence Rd., Mountainside. Monthly speakers and support groups.

AUTISM

Autismlink.com Website gathers information on autism from all organizations, provides a forum and chat room for parents and a database of service providers nationwide.

Autism New Jersey 1-800-4-AUTISM. Nonprofit agency provides information and advocacy, services, a database of service providers, family and professional education and consultation in New Jersey. www.autismnj.org

Autism Speaks www.autismspeaks.org. The world’s largest autism advocacy organization hosts a comprehensive website.

Autism Spectrum Disorders Support Group Child Development Center, Morristown Memorial Hospital, Anderson Bldg., Section D, 973-971-5226. Meetings held on the 4th Tuesday of the month, 6-7:30pm.

Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health Montclair State University, 1 Normal Ave., Montclair, 973-6556685. Center provides support and outpatient psychotherapeutic services to children birth-8 and their families, professional development, education and research around the issues of autism, infant and childhood development and early childhood mental health.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Parents of Autistic Children 1999 Rt. 88, Brick, 732-785-1099. Non-profit New Jersey organization provides free training and education to professionals, parents and families; recreation activities year round; support for families and siblings; and promotes autism awareness and advocacy. Free speakers bureau. www.poac.net

Stepping Forward Counseling Center 26 Main St., Chatham, 973-635-6550. Stepping Forward Counseling Center relies primarily on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as our instructional method of choice. Our methods are grounded in well-researched behavior principles. We assess each child’s skills, create individualized education plans and, when appropriate, use the best of what ABA has to offer to help children grow and learn. We train parents and others working with the child. www.steppingforwardcounselingcenter.com

TeamHope, P.C. 231 US Hwy 206 South, Bedminster, 908-375-8237. See listing under Therapeutic Services and display ad on page 163. www.teamhope.com

177

in-home and work services, support and advocacy, housing assistance, technology lending and therapeutic services through fee-for-service programs. www.cpofnj.org

DIABETES

Joslin Center for Diabetes A teaching and research affiliate of Harvard Medical School, the Joslin Diabetes Center leads in diabetes research and innovative approaches to clinical care and education for children and adults. Contact the New Jersey location at Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliation at AtlantiCare in Egg Harbor Township, 609-407-2277. www.joslin.org

E AT I N G D I S O R D E R S

Healthy NJ – Information for Healthy Living Consumer website created by University Librarians at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey provides patient education and information on New Jersey resources and referrals for eating disorders. www.healthynj.org/diseases/eatingdisorders.html

National Eating Disorders Association CANCER

Camp Quality New Jersey 732-642-9238. Non-profit organization provides a free weeklong summer camping experience and support program in Blairstown for children with cancer. www.campqualityusa.org/nj

Information and referral helpline, 800-931-2237. Support, education and referral resource for individuals and families affected by eating disorders. www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

FITNESS

Cancer Hope Network

Kid Fit

2 North Rd., Suite A, Chester, 800-552-4366, 908-879-4039. Non-profit organization provides free and confidential oneon-one support to cancer patients and their families. www.cancerhopenetwork.org

Goryeb Children’s Center at Overlook Hospital, 973-971-8824. Healthy lifestyles program geared toward children ages 6 through 21 who are overweight or who may be at risk for weight-related diseases. www.atlantichealth.org/goryeb

Cancer Support Community Central New Jersey 3 Crossroads Dr., Bedminster, 908-658-5400. Support groups, educational workshops, stress reduction and creative expression programs. www.cancersupportcnj.org

CureSearch.org www.curesearch.org. National Childhood Cancer Foundation website covers every aspect of childhood cancer.

National Cancer Institute www.cancer.gov. The federal government’s principal agency for cancer research and training collects and disseminates information on cancer, clinical trials and research.

CELIAC DISEASE

Celiac Disease Foundation National non-profit corporation since 1990 provides reliable, up-to-date information about Celiac Disease and Dermatitis Herpetiformis and a gluten-free lifestyle to assist individuals with CD, DH and gluten allergies. www.celiac.org

FOOD ALLERGIES

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network 800-929-4040. FAAN provides information, education and advocacy on behalf of all those affected by food allergies. Recipes, research, kids and teen sections and other helpful information are posted online. www.foodallergy.org

Food Allergy Support Group of Monmouth County Made up of parents with children with food allergies who live in or near Monmouth County, the group sponsors speakers and social events about ten times a year. http://fasgmc.tripod.com; njfoodallergy@hotmail.com

HOSPICE

Hospice Education Institute 800-331-1620, www.hospiceworld.org. Independent, nonprofit organization offers information, advice, referrals and support to the public and health care professionals.

C E R E B R A L PA L S Y

LEARNING DISABILITIES See listings under Education Services and Learning Disabilities Support beginning on page 184.

178

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

health & family SPECIALIZED SERVICES SPINA BIFIDA

Spina Bifida Resource Network 908-782-7475. Professionally staffed organization in New Jersey and metro New York dedicated to serving individuals and families living with spina bifida. www.thesbrn.org

STUTTERING

The Stuttering Foundation 800-992-9392, www.stutteringhelp.org. Free online resources, services and support to those who stutter and their families.

TOURETTE SYNDROME

Tourette Syndrome Association of New Jersey 50 Division St., Suite 205, Somerville, 908-575-7350. Helpline: 732-972-4459. Operates support groups at regional medical centers for individuals and their families, conducts awareness training, manages a TS help line, and sponsors a statewide Family Contact Program. www.tsanj.org

SUPPORT GROUPS

new jersey self-help clearinghouse

1-800-367-6274. Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5. Service, funded by State Division of Mental Health Services, state legislation and private and corporate contributions, offers a comprehensive listing of support groups in New Jersey, assistance in developing a group, periodic workshops for starting and running groups, an annual directory and volunteer opportunities. Support groups for youth, parents and parents of children with special needs are available. www.njgroups.org See Moms Groups & Playgroups under Parents Place for more groups offering support in addition to playgroups and other social activities.

Grief Support Group Jewish Family Service of MetroWest, Florham Park, Livingston, West Orange and Jersey City, 973-765-9050. Open to men and women who have lost a spouse or significant other and are struggling with their sorrow. www.jfsmetrowest.org

La Leche Leagues 1-800-LA-LECHE, 800-525-3243. International organization provides support and information to breastfeeding mothers. Local groups meet monthly. Nursing mothers, their babies and expectant mothers are welcome. To find groups in New Jersey, consult www.lalecheleague.org.

Livingston Parent Self-Help Support Group Northland Recreation Center, Jefferson Court, Livingston. Barbara and John, 973-227-7367; Debbie, 973-533-1319; Paul, 908-464-1590. Self-help support group for parents, based on Tough-Love philosophy. Support, referrals and solutions are facilitated by experienced parents.

MOMIE Mothers of Multiples in Essex PO Box 289, Livingston, NJ 07039, email momiepresident@ yahoo.com. A non-profit organization for parents of multiple-birth children living in and around Essex County, the group usually meets monthly at St. Barnabas Medical Center. Email for information. momienj.org

Mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Center of Central New Jersey P.O. Box 7, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, 908-561-1751. Email: mccnj.business@gmail.com. Non-profit, non-sectarian organization founded in 1978 provides friendship, education, outreach and support for parents. Day and evening discussion groups and craft groups, book clubs, morning and afternoon playgroups and special events. Childcare available during daytime events. http://cnj.motherscenter.org

NCJW Center for Women 70 South Orange Ave., Suite 120, Livingston, 973-994-4994. We offer a safe and affordable place to go for help when faced with life changes. Support groups for women and children; career planning and placement; legal and financial guidance; computer classes; workshops; and RISE Institute (Reaching Into Self Empowerment), which provides women experiencing life transitions with education and skills to reach their goals. All programs nonsectarian. Volunteer opportunities available. www.centerforwomenNJ.org

National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs Support group for mothers of multiple birth children. To find a club in your area, visit www.nomotc.org.

Parents Support Group New Jersey, Inc. P.O. Box 221, West Orange 07052, 973-533-9070, 800561-4299. Non-profit foundation sponsors self-help groups for parents to cope with the disease of addiction. Sibling support group. www.psgnjhomestead.com

Pathways The Connection for Women and Families, 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. Non-profit program provides support, education and wellness programs for women with cancer. Pathway Cooks, Healing Foods and Cancer Recovery Fitness programs. www.theconnectiononline.org

Pet Loss Support Group St. Hubertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Animal Welfare Center, 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, 973-377-7094. Families with children and others who have lost a pet or are faced with the decision to euthanize a beloved pet are welcome to attend group sessions led by experienced counselors.

Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc. 1830 Front St., Scotch Plains, 908-322-9180 ext. 20 or 10. Nonprofit mental health organization offers a free, ongoing support group for parents coping with the daily challenges of raising a child with any type of disability.

SHARE Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support of North New Jersey 973-543-2495, email: sharenonj@msn.com. Non-denominational, national organization formed by and for parents grieving the death of a baby.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

PPediatric ediatric Specialists Specialists

Truste d By P Trusted Parents arents Referred Re ferre d W With ith Co Confidence nfi dence By By Do Doctors ctors

INSURANCE INSUR ANCE AACCEPTED CCEPTED OCCUPATIONAL THERA OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PY . PHY PHYSICAL SICAL THERA THERAPY PY . .SPEE SPEECH CH THERA THERAPY PY SScotch cotch PPlains lains M Manalapan analapan East Brunswick

Featured F eature d Programs: Prog rams:

Social So cial Skills Skills Gr Groups o ups Sensory Senso r y Gyms Early Ea rly Intervention Inter vention P Program rog ram

www.TinyTotsTherapyInc.com www .TinyT yTo otsTherapyInc.co m P: (908) 380 380-7715 -7715

F: (908) 462-6655

179

180

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

CHILD CARE / NANNY SERVICES AuPairCare 800-4au-pair (800-428-7247). Au Pair Care offers you a dependable, flexible childcare solution. You'll have affordable childcare that fits your budget. Introduce your family to the language and traditions of another country while knowing your children are safe, happy and healthy with a specially-trained au pair. www.aupaircare.com

AuPair in America 800-928-7247. Screened au pairs from more than 60 countries, and 24/7 support line. www.AuPairinAmerica.com

Child Care Connection Mercer County, 609-989-7770. Child care resource and referral agency provides referrals, training and education, and offers technical assistance to child care organizations.

Child & Family Resources 111 Howard Blvd., Suite 201, Mount Arlington, 973-398-1730. Child care resource and referral organization for Morris County offers child care referral and professional development. www.childandfamily-nj.org

Cradles to Crayons Learning Center, Inc. 649 Central Ave., Westfield, 908-518-0900. Open 7am-7pm. Quality care for ages birth – full-day kindergarten by trained, screened and certified teachers. Full and part-time sessions are offered year ’round in an educational learning environment. Curriculum includes computer, arts/crafts, science/math/writing, readiness skills, outside play, language arts, music and movement. Internet camera system. Half-day session offered to 3-5 year olds. www.cradlestocrayons.us

The Early School of Temple B’nai Abraham 300 E. Northfield Rd., P.O. Box 46, Livingston, 973-9947016. See display ad and listing under Preschools. www.tbanj.org/the-early-school

Greater Morristown YMCA RF Blake Children’s Center 65 Horsehill Rd., Cedar Knolls, 973-984-2255. On-site infant through kindergarten care. Off-site afterschool care for the Morris Plains school district. www.blakechildrenscenter.org

Here We Grow! Child Development Center 422 Central Ave., Westfield, 908-233-6000. See complete listing under Preschools & Kindergarten.

Programs for Parents, Inc.

JCC Blaustein Early Childhood Center

866-429-1667, www.ProgramsforParents.net. Free child care counseling, referrals, provider training and education, child care center checklist and child development newsletter for Essex County.

CHILD CARE PROVIDERS From nurturing infants to after school care, the professional child care providers listed below are dedicated to providing quality care for your children. They invite you to call for more information, schedule a tour to visit their facilities and meet the staff. Ys and JCCs also provide a variety of childcare options. See the listings under Ys/JCCs/Rec Facilities for facilities serving your community. For a current list of all licensed child care centers in New Jersey, visit the State of New Jersey Department of Children and Families website below. For assistance by phone, call 1-800-332-9227. www.state.nj.us/dcf/families/childcare

The F.M. Kirby Children’s Center of the Madison Area YMCA 54 East St., Madison, 973-377-4945. Childcare and early childhood education for infants through school age children.

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA 100 Fanny Rd., Mountain Lakes, 973-334-2820 ext. 14. Full and partial day care for children 21⁄2 through Kindergarten, after school programs and full and half day summer camps.

Little Tots Academy 30-34 Okner Parkway, Livingston, 973-597-0778. Child care available for ages 6 wks.-6 yrs. from 7:15am-6pm. Open 12 months. Half-day preschool 9am-1pm. Warm and nurturing environment in our new expanded facility; creative teaching with licensed instructors. Spanish, tumbling, creative dancing and computers offered at no extra charge. Optional hot lunch program.

Noah’s Ark Child Care Ada Budrick Child Care & Learning Center 220 Vreeland Ave., Boonton, 973-335-0619. Director: Laura Guzik. Under new management of the Greater Morristown YMCA, the Ada Budrick Child Care and Learning Center provides parents and children with quality, affordable child care. Our experienced staff and developmentally appropriate learning experiences allow for fun through guided exploration and creative expression.

Collinsville Child Care Center Greater Morristown YMCA, 125 South St., Morristown, 973538-2366. Ages 21⁄2-5 Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:30. Call for a free tour. www.morristownymca.org

836 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-7011; 618 Central Ave., Westfield, 908-232-0175. Infants to full day kindergarten. 6:30am-7pm. Certified teachers. See display ad and listing under Preschools. www.learnontheark.com

Primrose School • Primrose School of Berkeley Heights 260 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-418-6225 www.primroseschools.com/schools/berkeley-heights • Primrose School of Florham Park 31 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park, 973-437-6789 www.primroseschools.com/schools/florham-park

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

• Primrose School of Mountainside 1038 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-228-5589 www.primrosemountainside.com • Primrose School of Warren 117 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-822-9900 www.primrosewarren.com Primrose School is an accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience for ages 6 wks.-full-time Kindergarten. Before/after school program. See display ad on inside back cover.

Raritan Valley Community College Childcare Center Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd., North Branch, 908-231-8807. Ages 3 mos. through 5 yrs.

The Small Society Academy 20 Bay St., Stirling, 908-647-3838. See listing under Preschools.

Sunshine Preschool & Infant Care 3575 Valley Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-604-2707. Spacious facility located on park-like property offers unique opportunities for indoor and outdoor hands-on learning. Half and full day programs include art, music, gym, library and computers. Nurturing, experienced staff provide secure environment that fosters well-rounded child development. www.sunshinepreschool.net

Union Village Nursery School 1130 Mountain Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-647-4440. See ad and listing under Preschool & Kindergarten.

Zadie’s Nurturing Den 1 Walnut St., Summit, 908-277-8584; 141 S. Harrison St., East Orange, 973-395-5100. Open 24 hrs. 7 days. A unique family day care program dedicated to providing a warm “home-like” environment for children ages 6 weeks to kindergarten. Our services are geared towards the needs of working parents in a new state-of-the-art facility offering the finest in safety, security and services for your child. www.zadiesden.com. See ad on back cover.

181

INFANTS – FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN

Full & Part-Time sessions, year ’round Open 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. 1/2 day sessions, 3-5 years Before and after care available Drop-In Available • Low child/teacher ratio NOW • Trained, screened & ENROLL ING certified teachers • Internet camera system • Age appropriate curriculum (art & music, science, math, language arts, Spanish, readiness skills, outside play, computers & more) • CPR certified/First Aid certified/state licensed • Sibling Discount R CALL FUOR! A TO

15 years of exceptional care with experienced teachers

649 Central Ave. Westfield, NJ 07090

(908) 518-0900 www.cradlestocrayons.us

TAKE A FRESH LOOK Ada Budrick Child Care & Learning Center Under new management of the Greater Morristown YMCA

Do you need exceptional, quality child care? Call for a free tour. Ages 2-6 Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30 pm Ada Budrick Child Care and Learning Center - Just off Route 287 exit 45 220 Vreeland Ave, Boonton NJ (973) 335-0619

182

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

child care The Connection for Women and Families

DROP-IN / PART-TIME CARE Christ Church Nursery School Drop-In Babysitting Christ Church Nursery School, East Lane, Short Hills, 973-3796549. Drop-in service available Mon.-Fri. 8:30-3:30 for infants to age 6 mid-Sept.–mid-June.

Mother’s Morning Out 125 Elmer St., Westfield, 908-232-2084. Program gives parents one morning or one afternoon out per week while providing a safe environment for the children.

Mother’s Morning Out at Ogden Ogden Memorial Presbyterian Church, Main St. & Elmwood, Chatham, 973-635-1144. State licensed program designed specifically for two-year olds follows a traditional preschool format. www.mothersmorningout.org

Presbyterian Church Drop-In Babysitting Presbyterian Church, Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-790-1919. For ages 1-5 years, up to 16 children. Stories, recreation, singing.

Time Out for Parents Presbyterian Church, 140 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-6545157. 21⁄2 hrs. once a week for ages 3 mos.-3yrs. Supervised play, arts and crafts, recess, stories and snack time.

AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE A variety of before and after-school child care and kindergarten wraparound programs are offered within the elementary schools. They are run by the local school district or by outside agencies contracted by the district. Ys and JCCs are also major providers of before and after-school child care programs, many offering transportation to and from public schools. Check with your school district and area Y and JCC for information.

79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. The Connection’s enrichment programs provide a safe, engaging environment that motivates and inspires learning beyond the school day. Developed in cooperation with the Summit Board of Education, our after school programs integrate homework assistance with fun activities. www.theconnectiononline.org

JCC MetroWest Kids Club Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3490. A safe and structured afterschool environment for children in grades K-5. Gym, swim, arts and crafts, cooking, homework support and fun with friends. Includes transportation from area schools to the Cooperman JCC in West Orange.

“J” Crew After School Program Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC, 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater, 908-725-6994, x227. Director: Ken Kaus, email: kkaus@ssbjcc.org. Website: www.ssbjcc.org/afterschool Homework help, swimming, sports, karate, arts and crafts, fitness programs, cooking, daily snack and more for grades K-6. High staff-to-child ratio. Register for 2, 3, 4 or 5 days a week. Busing available from select Bridgewater schools.

Jointure for Community Adult Education Enrichment Programs 908-722-0233. Before and after school enrichment programs in Bridgewater/Raritan, Branchburg and Hillsborough schools. www.jointure.org

The F.M. Kirby Children’s Center of the Madison Area YMCA 54 East St., Madison, 973-377-4945. Kindergarten wraparound, before and after school care for 1st-6th grades.

Maplewood/South Orange After School Program Civic House, 124 Dunnell Rd., Maplewood, 973-762-4145. After school care for students grades K-8 sponsored by Maplewood and So. Orange Recreation and South Mountain YMCA. Applications accepted in May for the following school year.

Collinsville Child Care Center A Place To Grow

Accepting ages 2 1/2-6 years Monday-Friday 7:30 am-6:00 pm Call for a free tour! (973) 538-2366 Conveniently located at 125 South Street Morristown, NJ 07960 Just behind Cottage II restaurant

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

183

The Cottage School DAYCARE/ NURSERY Monthly/ Weekly Rates Open Year â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Round For more information call: 647-3838 20 Bay Street Stirling, NJ 07980 State CertiďŹ ed Private Non-Sectarian School Open Enrollment

www.smallsocietyacademy.com Primrose School â&#x20AC;˘ Primrose School of Berkeley Heights 260 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-418-6225 www.primroseschools.com/schools/berkeley-heights â&#x20AC;˘ Primrose School of Florham Park 31 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park, 973-437-6789 www.primroseschools.com/schools/florham-park â&#x20AC;˘ Primrose School of Mountainside 1038 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-228-5589 www.primrosemountainside.com â&#x20AC;˘ Primrose School of Warren 117 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-822-9900 www.primrosewarren.com Ages 6 wks.-full-time Kindergarten and before/after school program. See complete listing under Preschools & Kindergarten. See display ad on inside back cover.

Union Village Nursery School 1130 Mountain Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-647-4440. See ad and listing under Preschool & Kindergarten.

Playgroup â&#x20AC;˘ Preschool â&#x20AC;˘ Young K Kindergarten â&#x20AC;˘ 1stâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;6th Grades Spanish, French & Art

Summer Programs June 10-13 â&#x20AC;˘ June 17-20 June 23-26 Spanish & French Language Immersion

908-719-9610 â&#x20AC;˘ thecottageschool.net 224 Main Street, Gladstone We create a non-competitive environment where creativity and the joy of learning are nurtured.

Richard F. Blake Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center

DISCOVER LEARN GROW Exceptional, Quality Child Care 6 weeks - 5 years Monday-Friday 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

CHILD CARE SERVICES BABY SAFETY

Royal Baby Safety Corp. 908-598-0500, Toll free 800-89-ROYAL. Let us help you babyproof your home. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been providing the best safety products at competitive prices and helping parents install them in their homes since 1991. Call today for your free (in most cases), comprehensive, in-home, no obligation, safety evaluation. See our ad on page 11.

Want more info?

Make kidsguidenj.com your first stop! Check schedules, get more details, find new events using the hundreds of convenient links to the websites of Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Guide listings.

Innovative programs &HUWLÂžHG WHDFKHU LQ HDFK FODVVURRP &UHDWLYH &XUULFXOXP 6ZLP OHVVRQV Large indoor gym 2XWVLGH SOD\JURXQGV &DULQJ NQRZOHGJHDEOH VWDII

NAEYC Accredited 7KH PDUN RI H[FHOOHQFH LQ FKLOG FDUH

5 ) %ODNH &KLOGUHQÂľV &HQWHU +RUVHKLOO 5G &HGDU .QROOV 1- &DOO IRU D IUHH WRXU EODNHFKLOGUHQVFHQWHU RUJ

184

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

EDUCATION SERVICES / TUTORS In addition to the education specialists below, refer to Health Professionals, Specialized Services, Therapeutic Services, Children's Groups and other Health categories for informaton about early intervention services and professional services such as speech/language therapy, ADHD, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychotherapy, social skills, children’s groups and more. Also see listings under All Around Enrichment and Enrichment classes for additional education services.

Eldridge Overton Educational Programs Green Brook Enrichment Center: 326 Route 22 West 8A, Green Brook, 732-903-1200. Education programs for students of all ages and skill levels. Academic camps, classes and tutoring. College for Kids Camp at Kean University and Raritan Valley Community College, beginning June 9th. Tutoring available online, at your home, school, local library, at our site, or a location of your choice. www.aypacademy.com

Eye Level Learning Center of Cranford 21 North Ave. W., Cranford, 908-858-5054. Tues.-Thurs. 1-8, Sat. 9-3, Mon. & Fri. by appointment. Eye Level is the global leader in supplemental math, reading and writing instruction. We promote effective study habits and self-directed learning for lifelong achievement. Ages 3-16, remedial and enrichment. www.eyelevelcranford.com

Estelle Finkel Educational Associates, Inc. 125 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-994-4665. Team of educators and certified specialists. Subject tutoring, K-12; reading comprehension; SAT I & II and ACT preparation; college advisory; SSAT, ISEE and Co-Op preparation; private school placement; study skills improvement; learning disabilities diagnosis. Visit estellefinkeltutoring.com.

Learning Rx • Learning Rx Chester 350 Main St., Chester, 908-834-0606 chester.nj@LearningRx.net www.LearningRx.com/chester • Learning Rx Cherry Hill 9004 Lincoln Dr. West, Suite E, Marlton, 856-348-3600 cherryhill.nj@LearningRx.net www.LearningRx.com/cherry-hill • Learning Rx Marlboro 176 US Hwy. 9 North, Suite 202, Englishtown, 732-444-8579 marlboro.nj@LearningRx.net www.LearningRx.com/marlboro • Learning Rx Short Hills 636 Morris Ave., Suite 1B, Short Hills, 973-376-4646 shorthills.nj@LearningRx.net www.LearningRx.com/short-hills

Summer Camps Enrichment Classes Tutoring Online Programs Test Prep Join one of our College for Kids Camps, Gifted & Talented Institutes, or Educational Enrichment Courses at our Green Brook Enrichment Center, Kean University or Raritan Valley Community College . Tutoring or Home School Supplementation at our Site or Your Location. Students pre-k hematics). to adult (all subjects) and Online Tutoring (matth

¡ ¦¡ ဠ£ ª ¤

EELLD DRRRIIID DG D GEE OVVEEERRTTO G ON O N EED D UC U CA C ATTIIIO ON O N NA AL PPRRRO O GRRRA G AAM MS MS OG DU ONA RAM

Eldridge Overton Educational Programs 732.903.2100 www.aypacademy.com Green Brook E ment Cen nrich En hm ntter

326 Rou J 08812 utte 22 West 8A Green Brook, N NJ

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

• Learning Rx Warren 34 Mountain Blvd., Warren, 908-222-7246, 908-22-BRAIN warren.nj@LearningRx.net www.LearningRx.com/warren Learning Rx specializes in identifying and correcting the underlying cognitive skill deficiencies that keep kids from achieving their full potential in school, business or life. It’s not a tutoring program, but rather a one-on-one brain training program that corrects the underlying causes of learning, reading and behavioral difficulties. Through intense one-on-one sessions, Learning Rx actually “re-wires” the brain and dramatically improves short and long-term memory, attention, auditory and visual processing, reasoning, logic and processing speed. Average IQ increases of 1520 points. See display ad on page 186.

Private Tutoring by Sandy Moskowitz Union County area, 973-379-9046, email: sandymosk16 @gmail.com. Pre-K to adult. Sensitive to your child’s individual needs, highly motivational, excellent references. Services include reading comprehension, writing, math, science, social studies, homework help, standardized tests, study strategies and organizational skills.

“Social Skills” by Susan Mendelson, MSW, LSW 1112 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-301-0900. www.njsocialskills.com. See listings under Children’s Groups and Health Professionals.

Summit Test Prep & Tutoring 184 Broad St., 2nd floor (above Woodland Builders), Summit, 908-516-4199, info@summittesttutor.com. Test preparation (ACT/SAT/PSAT/SSAT/ISEE/HSPT/COOP/GRE/GMAT) and academic tutoring for middle and high school students. No contracts, no price hikes. Flexible scheduling. Free baseline assessment. Our location or yours. www.summittesttutor.com

COLLEGE PREP/STUDY SKILLS

• Union County College Cont Ed www.ucc.edu • Westfield Adult School www.westfieldadultschool.com

185

908-709-7600 908-232-4050

CollegeBoard.com Official site for SAT registration and information with college search function and financial aid planner.

CollegeData.com College search engine and profiles, scholarship search engine and college net cost calculator.

Nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator Website displays data from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education in the U.S. and other nations.

NJtransfer.org Website provides information on admissions, financial aid and scholarships, recommended transfer programs and course equivalencies for New Jersey colleges and universities.

Petersons.com Online resource for college, university, graduate school, continuing education and private school searches.

Studygs.net Website often cited by teachers and schools offers valuable information and strategies for learning, studying, time management, test-taking, reading, writing, problem solving and more.

TestPrepReview.com ACT/SAT practice tests for no charge.

Ucan-network.org Initiative by U-CAN (University & College Accountability Network) gives prospective students and their families excellent information in a common format on nonprofit, private colleges and universities including faculty info, graduation and retention statistics.

See listings above under Educational Services/Tutoring for

www.kidsguidenj.com

professional services specializing in college prep and study skills.

for the online 2014 School & Camp Guide

Adult Schools Area adult schools offer a variety of courses related to college admission during their fall and spring semesters. Some topics include SAT prep, managing the college transition, writing the college essay and tips for college admission, saving for college, financial aid and study skills. Brochures are typically mailed to area residents prior to registration in Sept. and Jan. • The Adult School & The Jointure 973-443-9222 www.theadultschool.org • County College of Morris Enrichment www.ccm.edu 973-328-5187 • Morris Community School 973-292-2063 www.ssreg.com/mcs • Morris Hills School of Adult and Continuing Education www.mhcontinuingedu.com 973-664-2296 • South Orange Maplewood Adult 973-378-7620 www.ssreg.com/som

PRIVATE TUTORING “Give your child a chance to advance” Pre-K to Adult

SANDY MOSKOWITZ Sensitive to your child’s individual needs Highly motivational Reading comprehension/writing Math Science and Social Studies Homework help/Study strategies Standardized Test Prep Excellent references

(973) 379-9046

sandymosk16@gmail.com

186

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

W What hat ccould ould h her er llife ife be be like like with with a ffaster, aster, ssmarter marter brain? brain? LearningRx gives kids (and grown too!) an edge in school, career and l Our researched based, one-to-on brain training programs literally re the brain and make thinking, lear reading and remembering faster a easier than before. We help kids and adults with solutions for: Memory Improvement

Autism

Learning Challenges

Dyslex

Homework Struggles

ADHD

Schedule an appointment by

. .BZ BZ Special discount on the Complete LearningR x Cognitive Skills T Te esting Package

SAVE S AVE $1 $100 00 Regular Te Testing Price: $299

www.learningrx.com www.learningrx.com In Chester

In Warr Warren

In Montclair

In Short Hills

In Marlboro

In Cherry Hill

(908) 834-0606 (908) 22-BRAIN (973) 607-2444 (973) 376-4646 (732) 444-8579 (856) 348-3600

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

187

education HOMEWORK HELP & USEFUL LINKS

Artcyclopedia.com An encyclopedia of noted artists with links to image archives, articles about the artist, museums with collections of the artist and market activity of the artist’s work.

Freemasonry, provides Orton-Gillingham tutoring to kindergarten through high school students free of charge. Open to all. Professional tutor training is also provided at no cost to those who qualify. Individual and business sponsorships accepted. www.learningbear.org

Art Project

The C.H.I.L.D. Organization of Scotch Plains - Fanwood

A collaboration between seventeen art museums from the United States, Europe, Russia and Google, the Art Project enables users to view more than 1,000 artworks online in extraordinary detail, learn about a work’s history and artist and tour museum galleries. www.googleartproject.com

www.childorgspf.org. Support and resource group for families with children who have learning disabilities hosts speakers with a broad spectrum of expertise throughout the year. Membership is open to all parents within the school district and surrounding towns.

DiscoveryEducation.com

Council for Learning Disabilities

Interactive website offers free student resources including games, videos, virtual labs and other activities related to science, English, social studies, math and other subjects.

International organization of professionals who establish standards and promote innovative strategies for research and practice. www.cldinternational.org

FactMonster.com

Division for Learning Disabilities at the Council for Exceptional Children

Useful sites for gathering information for homework projects. Also kidinfo.com.

HistoryChannel.com Easy to navigate site for history research.

HowStuffWorks.com Hundreds of topics for science and technology research.

How-to-Study.com Free study skills articles for all subjects and ages.

JerseyClicks.org Search full-text magazines, journals, books and encyclopedias from home with your public library card, or at your local public or school library. Funded by the New Jersey State Library, Library Services & Technology ACT and Regional Library Cooperatives.

Khan Academy An extensive library of interactive videos, challenges and assessments cover subjects in math, science, economics, finance, computer programming and humanities. All are available at no charge to students, teachers, parents and anyone interested in learning more. www.khanacademy.org

LOC.gov Access curious and entertaining facts from America’s past through the “Wise Guide,” portal at The Library of Congress’ website.

RefDesk.com In an attempt to bring order to the chaos of the Internet, refdesk is an index of subjects with current links to a vast number of websites.

TED: Ideas Worth Spreading Non-profit organization challenges some of the world’s most interesting thinkers and doers to present a remarkable talk in 18 minutes or less. The best talks and performances from TED conferences and partners are available for all to view on line for free. New talks are added each week. www.ted.com

LD SUPPORT SERVICES

The Children’s Dyslexia Center 301 Forest Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-322-6241. National program to combat dyslexia, supported by the Scottish Rite of

888-232-7733. International, professional association provides resources and information about assessment, instruction and policy for teaching students with learning disabilities. www.teachingld.org

Family Center on Technology & Disability 1825 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Washington, DC, 202-8848068. FCTD website provides information about assistive/ instructional technology resources of interest to families of children with disabilities. Monthly newsletters, online discussions moderated by nationally recognized experts, a database of 3,500 disability organizations and resource review database is also available online. www.fctd.info

GetReadyToRead.org NCLD’s online information center provides extensive information about early reading skills in separate sections for parents and educators. From the site, you can access the Get Ready to Read! screening tool designed to indicate a child’s pre-reading progress.

International Dyslexia Association 800-ABC-D123. International network brings individuals, parents and professionals in the field of dyslexia together. New Jersey residents who join IDA automatically become members of the New Jersey branch and receive information about local workshops and conferences. www.interdys.org, www.njida.org

JVS 111 Prospect St., East Orange, 973-674-6330 x237. School-tocareer and transition services for students with special needs; career center for teens and adults with autism spectrum disorders. www.jvsnj.org

Learning Disabilities Association of New Jersey PO Box 6268, East Brunswick, 732-645-2738. The New Jersey chapter of LDA of America (www.ldaamerica.org) provides education, networking and advocacy for its members. www.ldanj.org

LDonline.org A leading website on learning disabilities posts articles, columns by noted experts, a resource guide, referral directory and hosts active forums. www.ldonline.org

188

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education LD SUPPORT SERVICES

PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN

Learning Resource Centers North: 7 Glenwood Ave., Suite 201, East Orange, 973-4144491. North satellite: 104 American Rd., Bldg. 100, Morris Plains, 973-631-6345. Central: 200 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, 609-633-8893. South: South Jersey Technology Park, Samuel H. Jones Innovation Center, Suite 200, 107 Gilbreth Pkwy., Mullica Hill, 856-582-7000 ext. 165. Supported through the NJ Dept. of Education and federal funds, the Learning Resource Centers provide special education information, curriculum guides, consultation services, production services and loan materials to parents and educators serving pupils with disabilities ages 3 to 21. www.state.nj.us/education/lrc

Learning Rx Chester, Florham Park, Short Hills, Warren locations. See display ad on page 186 and complete listing under Education Services. www.LearningRx.com

Morris-Union Jointure Commission Parent Training Series Workshops 340 Central Ave., New Providence, 908-464-7625. Fall and spring educational workshops are open to anyone involved with a child who has been diagnosed with a pervasive developmental disorder, but they are also extremely helpful for parents of children with other disabilities as well. www.mujc.org, select “Schools/Parents/Parent Training Opportunities” for information.

National Center for Learning Disabilities 888-575-7373. Develops training and educational materials for parents and practitioners. www.ncld.org

P.A.C.E. Parent Advocacy Council for Education Morris School District’s P.A.C.E. is an active parent-to-parent support and advocacy group working toward optimum education for all children with learning differences. Membership, public programs, and a useful website with extensive resources and calendar are open to all. Email pace.msd@gmail.com. www.morrispace.org

Wrightslaw

See Education Services/Tutors for educational professionals, testing services, tutors, enrichment programs, resources for learning disabilities, college prep, planning, homework help and other services. Registration for preschool usually begins in January for the following September and is on-going until enrollment is full. All public schools offer a preschool program for classified students. Regular education students are selected by lottery from applications filed in spring to fill available space. Visit the State of New Jersey Department of Education website for a non-user-friendly directory of public and non-public preschools as well as elementary, secondary and special education schools, official public school report cards (http://education.state.nj.us/rc/ index.html) and additional information about education in New Jersey. www.state.nj.us/education http://education.state.nj.us/directory Consult greatschools.org for listings of 200,000 public and private schools serving students from preschool through high school and more than 800,000 parent ratings and review. The site also includes homework tools and valuable articles for parents. Visit the website of the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools for a directory of member schools. www.njais.org Essex County Preschools Hunterdon County Preschools Morris County Preschools Somerset County Preschools Union County Preschools

on page 188 online on page 192 on page 195 on page 200

essex county preschools & k

www.wrightslaw.com. A resource for parents, educators, advocates and attorneys to find information about special education law, education law and advocacy for children with disabilities.

Congregation Agudath Israel Early Childhood Center

Wrightslaw Yellow Pages for Kids

20 Academy Rd., Caldwell, 973-226-2537.

www.yellowpagesforkids.com provides clear information about legal rights and advocacy, state agencies, support groups, tutors, evaluators, disability information groups with separate listings for each state and territory.

CALDWELL

First Presbyterian Church Nursery School 326 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, 973-226-6674.

Kiddie Kampus 108 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, 973-226-1244.

A Pleasant Day Nursery School

There is only one Kids’ Guide for reaching children and families. If children and families are part of your business, then you should be part of New Jersey’s Kids’ Guide and kidsguidenj.com. NEXT ISSUE: SUMMER/FALL June–November 2014 For advertising information, 908-665-0607 or kids@kidsguidenj.com

8 Academy Rd., Caldwell, 973-228-5235.

EAST ORANGE

Zadie’s Nurturing Den of the Oranges 141 S. Harrison St., East Orange, 973-395-5100; 1 Walnut St.; Summit, 908-277-8584. Open 24 hrs. 7 days. A unique family day care program dedicated to providing a warm “homelike” environment for children ages 6 weeks to kindergarten. Our services are geared towards the needs of working parents in a new state-of-the-art facility offering the finest in safety, security and services for your child. www.zadiesden.com. See ad on back cover.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

189

...A Place of Love and Learning! • Programs for Infants to 5 year olds—open to Non-members • Innovative Educational Tools—SMART Table® Interactive Learning Center • New for 2013-2014—Just About 3, program for children turning three Oct., Nov. or Dec. 2013

www.tbanj.org/the-early-school For information, contact Debbie Aronson Ziering, Director dziering@tbanj.org • 973.994.7016 • 300 E. Northfield Road, Livingston

LIVINGSTON

Aquinas Academy Early Childhood Center 388 S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, 973-992-5181.

KinderCare Learning Center 100 Old Short Hills Rd., Livingston, 973-535-3336.

The Learning Experience 42 Okner Parkway, Livingston, 973-422-1080.

Little Angels Christian Montessori School 304 S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, 973-992-0344.

Little Tots Academy 30-34 Okner Parkway, Livingston, 973-597-0778. See listing under Child Care.

Livingston’s Little Learners 105 E. McClellan Ave., Livingston, 973-992-4200.

Strawberry Hill Pre-School 94 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-994-9511.

Suburban Torah Center Nursery School

A welcoming community of Jewish life, worship & learning

The Early School of Temple B’nai Abraham, 300 East Northfield Road, Livingston, NJ is a child's first formal learning experience involving a progressive development in which each level has its own age-specific program and goals. Central to the program is the development and enhancement of cognitive, linguistic, and numerical skills and the development of interpersonal skills. 2 to 5-yearolds attend Monday through Friday with options including early drop off, extended day, and more. Just About Three is a program for children turning 3 in October, November or December, 2013. Early Two's program is for children who are 2 by December 31. Tot Time is a program for parents and their toddlers from 13 to 23 months, and Baby Time offers workshops for parents with their babies, newborn to toddling. The Early School Camp, for 2 to 5-year-olds, meets for seven weeks, July through mid-August, 9 am to 1 pm, Monday through Friday, and Tot Time camp for toddlers is offered on Mondays and/or Wednesdays in July and August. All programs are open to members and non-members.

85 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-994-7225.

Temple Beth Shalom Philip J. Solondz Preschool 193 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973-992-6546. Email: rcohen@tbsnj.org. Director: Randi Cohen. TBS Preschool activities involve your child’s social, physical and intellectual growth and development along with a connection to all things Jewish. We nurture each child’s interests and curiosity for exploration, discovery and creativity with a goal that each child develops a unique and positive self-concept. Children and parents are active participants in this process with half day programs from 911:30, full day programs until 1 or 2 pm, before and after care to expand our hours, and an exciting array of after school enrichment activities. Our Toddler Time programs offer a fun introduction for toddlers and their caregivers. All programs are open to members and non-members.

Early Childhood Center at Temple Emanu-El 264 W. Northfield Rd., Livingston, 973-992-6174.

The Early School of Temple B’nai Abraham 300 E. Northfield Rd., Livingston, 973-994-7016. Director: Debbie Aronson Ziering. Email: dziering@tbanj.org. www.tbanj.org/the-early-school

TEMPLE BETH SHALOM PHILIP J. SOLONDZ

PRESCHOOL Toddlers to 4 year olds • Mommy & Me Program • Programs for Ages 2– 4 Years • 2, 3 or 5 Day Programs • Before/After Care • After School Specialty Enrichments

NOW ENROLLING 2014/2015 School and Camp Addye For information contact Randi Cohen, Director

TEMPLE BETH SHALOM 193 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, NJ

973-992-6546

190

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education Karate for Youth Childcare Center

essex county preschools & k

1812 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, 973-761-6042.

Kelly’s Kids Day Care Center

LIVINGSTON

495 Valley St., Maplewood, 973-761-8811; 1757 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, 973-761-5656.

Tutor Time Child Care/Learning Center 650 S. Orange Ave., Livingston, 973-758-1070.

Little Stages

West Essex YMCA

60 Taylor Place, South Orange, 973-243-0725.

Preschool: 7 Regent St., 973-533-1511. Kindergarten: Enrichment program in schools, 973992-7500. www.westessexymca.org

Mickey Fried Nursery School of Oheb Shalom Congregation

MAPLEWOOD/SOUTH ORANGE

170 Scotland Rd., South Orange, 973-762-7069.

Morrow Memorial Preschool 600 Ridgewood Rd., Maplewood, 973-763-2675.

Baird Center Preschool The Baird, South Orange, 973-378-7754.

Children’s Learning Tree 31 Third St., South Orange, 973-313-1132.

Christ Lutheran School 115 Parker Ave., Maplewood, 973-763-1577.

Norbury Nursery & Preschool 391-401 Valley St., South Orange, 973-763-9910.

Our Lady of Sorrows School 172 Academy St., South Orange, 973-762-5169.

Prospect Cooperative Nursery School 646 Prospect, Maplewood, 973-763-8955.

South Mountain YMCA 10 W. Parker Ave., Maplewood, 973-762-0860.

South Mountain Co-op 240 Franklin Ave., Maplewood, 973-327-3281.

South Orange Country Day School 461 Vose Ave., South Orange, 973-762-6451.

Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel’s Iris Family Center for Early Childhood Education Preschool Classes for Children 2 -5 Toddler Program • Summer Camp

432 Scotland Rd., South Orange, 973-763-4600.

Thelma K. Reisman Preschool of Beth El

Limited Spaces for 2013/2014 available Tours & 2014-2015 Registration Open Now

222 Irvington Ave., South Orange, 973-763-0113. Beth El Preschool provides children with a warm, nurturing environment within a Conservative Jewish framework. Offering half-day sessions for two, three & four year-olds, afternoon enrichment, toddlers and summer camp.

222 Irvington Ave.• South Orange, NJ 07079 email: SandySachs@bethelnj.org

111 Irvington Ave., South Orange, 973-762-7879.

Call now for info and tour

973-763-0113

Weekday Nursery School

Congregation Beth El Preserving Tradition...Embracing Change

State-of-the-Art Facility

Rochelle A. Baron, Director

• Programs for children 15 months–4 years • Experienced, certified teachers • Morning classes & afternoon enrichment • After school activities program • New school library • Two large playgrounds • Nurturing social environment • Seven week mini-camp

Hedwig Gruenewald Early Childhood Center of Congregation B’nai Israel

160 Millburn Avenue, Millburn • 973-379-4040 • cbi-nj.org

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

191

lent foundation for the continued education of children 21â &#x201E;2-6 yrs. old.

MILLBURN/SHORT HILLS

Alpine Montessori of Millburn 5 Bleeker St., Millburn, 973-379-4710. Director: Sarah Colucci. Ages 21â &#x201E;2-6. Enrollment: 89. Alpine Montessori of Millburn (f/k/a The Montessori School of Millburn-Short Hills) was established in 1978. The school is comprised of 6-7 smaller classrooms, with a low teacher-student ratio and a long tenured faculty. The school provides a very strong academic program which is delivered in a warm and nurturing environment. The progressive Montessori program at our school is designed as an excel-

Christ Church Nursery School East Lane, Short Hills, 973-379-6549.

Far Brook School 52 Great Hills Rd., Short Hills, NJ, 973-379-3442. See listing under Elementary & Secondary Schools.

Millburn Co-op Nursery School Taylor Park, 951 Ridgewood Rd., Millburn, 973-379-2778.

The Montessori Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Academy 200 Hartshorn Dr., Short Hills, 973-258-1400.

Diversified, Full- Day, Mandarin Chinese Preschool Ages 2 Years Old to 2nd Grade Where children acquire fluency in Mandarin Chinese together wi th an exceptional, well - rounded preschool experience. Accelerated Academic and Activit y Ba sed Curriculum CCREDITED -ANDARIN #HINESE 4EACHERS s &ULL $AY +INDERGAR TEN 3 TUDENT 4EACHER 2ATIOS s &ULL )MMERS ION %NVIRONMENT &ULL 0AR T 4IME /PTIONS s !F TER 3CHOOL 0ROGRAM -OUNTAIN !VE 7EST lELD s w w w.bambooshootseducation.com

192

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education essex county preschools & k MILLBURN/SHORT HILLS

Our Lady of Lourdes School 100 Valley Way, West Orange, 973-325-0555.

Playhouse Cooperative Nursery School 88 Franklin Ave., West Orange, 973-736-9451.

Hedwig Gruenewald Early Childhood Center of Congregation B’nai Israel 160 Millburn Ave., Millburn, 973-379-4040. Director: Rochelle A. Baron. Ages: 15 mos.-4 yrs. Enrollment: 98. Ratio: 5:1 (2’s)/6:1 (3’s & Pre-K’s). Deadline: Feb. 28. Affiliation: Jewish Conservative. Our school is a nurturing, child-centered environment where children develop cognitive, emotional, social, fine motor and gross motor skills through play and hands-on experiences. Toddler programs are also available.

Neighborhood House Nursery School 12 Taylor St., Millburn, 973-376-0739.

Open Door Nursery School 432 Wyoming Ave., Millburn, 973-376-9303.

St. Rose of Lima 52 Short Hills Ave., Short Hills, 973-379-3973.

Saint Stephen’s Preschool 119 Main St., Millburn, 973-376-0688.

Temple B’Nai Jeshurun Rabbi Barry H. Greene Early Childhood Center 1025 South Orange Ave., Short Hills, 973-379-1555.

WEST ORANGE

Suburban Hills School 627 Mt. Pleasant Ave., West Orange, 908-879-4140.

Valley Settlement House Day Care 33-41 Tompkins St., West Orange, 973-678-2550.

West Orange Community House Day Care 242 Main St., West Orange, 973-736-1282.

morris county preschools & k BOONTON

Ada Budrick Child Care & Learning Center 220 Vreeland Ave., Boonton, 973-335-0619. Director: Laura Guzik. Under new management of the Greater Morristown YMCA, the Ada Budrick Child Care and Learning Center provides parents and children with quality, affordable child care. Our experienced staff and developmentally appropriate learning experiences allow for fun through guided exploration and creative expression.

C H AT H A M

Chatham Day School 700 Shunpike Road, Chatham, 973-410-0400.

Blessed Pope John XXIII Academy 8 St. Cloud Pl., West Orange, 973-731-3503.

Chatham Methodist Nursery School

JCC MetroWest Early Childhood Education

460 Main St., Chatham, 973-635-5261. Director: Carol Bardon. Half day programs for ages 3 and 4 as well as kindergarten enrichment. Enrollment: 80. Happy, supportive environment. Large, cheerful rooms. Experienced, caring staff. Child-centered program designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, cooperative play, selfreliance through a variety of developmentally appropriate experiences. Activities include creative art, music, nature, dramatic play, classroom visitors, field trips and more.

Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3479.

234 Southern Boulevard, Chatham, 973-635-0033.

The Children’s Corner Preschool 471 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, 973-736-2100.

First Mountain Preschool 270 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, 973-243-6768.

Golda Och Academy 122 Gregory Ave., West Orange, 973-602-3601.

The Gingham Giraffe Preschool The Learning Path Nursery & Day Care

SPROUT HOUSE, INC. Since 1986

Nursery School • Rising 5’s Full-Day Kindergarten Hands on Learning Summer Program Extended Time 7:30am-6:00pm An Equal Opportunity School

200 Main St., Chatham Next to the Public Library

(973) 635-9658 www.sprouthouse.org sprouthouse5@verizon.net

300 Shunpike Rd., Chatham, 973-635-1500.

Little Angels School House Early Childhood Development Center 110 Main St., Chatham, 973-701-8303.

Little Friends Day School 322 Main St., Chatham, 973-701-0202.

Long Hill Christian Preschool of Chatham 525 Shunpike Rd., Chatham, 973-377-3336.

The Montessori Children’s Academy 286 Main St., Chatham, 973-665-0071.

Sprout House 200 Main St., Chatham, 973-635-9658. Director: Pat Rossmann. Ages: 21⁄2-6. Enrollment: 60-65. Registration begins in Jan. Innovative, progressive Preschool/Rising 5’s/Kindergarten dedicated to the whole child. Strong nature, science, nursery school emphasis on play and developmentally appropriate activities. Commitment to environmental education. Summer program.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

193

St. Patrick’s Pre-School 45 Chatham, Chatham, 973-635-4623.

Stanley Congregational Nursery School 94 Fairmount Ave., Chatham, 973-635-0755.

CHESTER

Clockwork Learning Center 395 Rt. 24E, Chester, 908-879-5010.

The Dogwood School 8 Dogwood Dr., Chester, 908-879-7477.

Little Lambs Christian Nursery School 100 Oakdale Rd., Chester, 908-879-4245.

Mustard Seed Child Care Inc. 30 Hillside Rd., Chester, 908-879-1111.

Suburban Hills School 41 Oakdale Rd., Chester, 908-879-4140.

Westmont Montessori School 577 Rt. 24, Chester, 908-879-6355.

C O N V E N T S TAT I O N

Bridge to Learning Child Care Center College of St. Elizabeth, Park Ave., Convent Station, 973539-1660.

The Montessori Children’s Academy 6 Kahn Rd., Convent Station, 973-410-9669.

EAST HANOVER

East Hanover Child Care Center, Inc. 55 Eagle Rock Ave., East Hanover, 973-581-7100.

East Hanover Cooperative Nursery School 469 Ridgedale Ave., East Hanover, 973-515-0477.

Kiddie Academy 33-43 Ridgedale Ave., East Hanover, 973-463-1860.

The Learning Tree 14 Hanover Rd., East Hanover, 973-887-1260.

St. Rose of Lima Early Childhood Center 312 Ridgedale Ave., East Hanover, 973-887-1801.

Over the Rainbow Children’s Center 1 Barnida Dr., East Hanover, 973-503-9010.

F L O R H A M PA R K

Calvary Nursery School 144 Ridgedale Ave., Florham Park, 973-514-1113.

Holy Family School 17 Lloyd Ave., Florham Park, 973-377-4181.

Little Duck Day School 11 Hanover Rd., Florham Park, 973-822-8100.

Like us on facebook.com/kidsguidenj for ticket giveaways and event announcements!

An Exceptional Toddler, Preschool & Kindergarten Program

Enrolling Now for Our 2014/2015 Year The London Day School (LDS) is an enrichment based, private educational academy for parents who want the very best for their young child. • Children 21⁄2–6 years of age • Half, extended and full day programs • Before and after-care from 7am–6pm • Small classes with exceptional teaching staff • Foreign Language instruction • Global approach to learning • Unique international art program and gallery • Enrichment Village–music, drama, science, gym, library and I-Touch lab • Organic garden and whimsical playground • Summer camp program

For the cost of one more year of Preschool, experience our unprecedented Full-Day Kindergarten Program.

THE LONDON DAY SCHOOL

973.377.0311 10 Ridgedale Avenue Florham Park (on the border of Madison)

www.londondayschool.com

194

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education morris county preschools & k F L O R H A M PA R K

The London Day School 10 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park, 973-377-0311. Director: Danielle R. Lindner. Ages: 21⁄2-6. Rolling admissions. Call for tuition and application information. The London Day School is a premier, private educational and enrichment academy offering half, extended and full day toddler, preschool, pre-K and full-day Kindergarten program and foreign language instruction. The mission of The London Day School is to provide a focus on the superior enrichment and education of the young child. Our program provides an unprecedented daily experience for each child that uses a scaffolding approach to learning. Our teachers' emphasize a hands-on approach to learning where children develop the skills needed to think critically and creatively. On a daily basis, our students build upon their skills to become socially, emotionally and intellectually confident. www.londondayschool.com

Magic Kingdom Day Nursery

MADISON

Acorn Academy at Drew University United Methodist Church, Rt. 24, Madison, 973-520-8889.

The F.M. Kirby Children’s Center of the Madison Area YMCA 54 East St., Madison, 973-377-4945. Half day PreKindergarten and half-day academic kindergarten.

Madison Community House 25 Cook Ave., Madison, 973-377-0244.

Madison Cooperative Nursery School 4 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-377-2501.

Madison Montessori School 19 Green Ave., Madison, 973-966-9544.

Rainbow Montessori School Green Village Rd., Madison, 973-377-8313.

St. Vincent Martyr School 26 Green Village Rd., Madison, 973-377-1104.

MENDHAM

88 Brooklake Dr., Florham Park, 973-966-9762.

Kiddie Academy of Chester

Primrose School of Florham Park

245 Blueberry Lane, Mendham, 908-879-9900.

31 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park, 973-437-6789. Ages: 6 wks.-full-time Kindergarten and before/after school program. Primrose is an accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience. As the leader in educational child care, we partner with parents to help children build the right foundation for future learning and life. Our goal is to help children have fun while building Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts.® See display ad on inside back cover. www.primroseschools.com/schools/florham-park

Mendham Cooperative Nursery School 8 Orchard St., Mendham, 973-543-6401.

MORRISTOWN

Assumption School 63 Macullough Ave., Morristown, 973-538-0590.

Bright Horizons 1 Cattano Ave., Morristown, 973-267-9100.

Children on the Green LONG HILL TOWNSHIP

Lil’ People’s Playhouse, Inc. 1288 Valley Rd., Stirling, 908-647-0950.

St. Vincent de Paul School

50 Park Place, Morristown, 973-984-0094.

Collinsville Child Care Center Greater Morristown YMCA, 125 South St., Morristown, 973538-2366. Ages 21⁄2-5 Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:30. Call for a free tour. www.morristownymca.org

Bebout Ave., Stirling, 908-647-0421.

Cradles to Crayons Child Care Learning Ctr

The Small Society Academy

16 Pine St., Morristown, 973-538-1717.

20 Bay St., Stirling, 908-647-3838. Directors: G. Treich, D. McCrea. Ages: 6 wks.–5 yrs. Total: 120. Ratio: varied according to age groups. Tuition: varied. Open enrollment. Our concept is to provide a secure and loving environment within a semi-structured program enriched by many positive new experiences and the feeling of success. www.smallsocietyacademy.com

Greater Morristown YMCA RF Blake Children’s Center

Long Hill Montessori School 158 Central Ave., Stirling, 908-647-1852. Director: Jack Clemence and Elena Schroeder. Ages: 21⁄2-6. Enrollment: 50. Ratio: Toddlers: 4:1; Others 8:1. Tuition: $3,110-$11,110. Our preschool offers full and part-time programs including a full day kindergarten. Curriculum and enrichment include foreign language, yoga, music, fine arts, piano, cooking and more. In our rich environment children experience the excitement of learning, explore their creativity, develop at their own pace and actively share in the learning process. www.longhillmontessori.com

65 Horsehill Rd., Cedar Knolls, 973-984-2255. On-site infant through kindergarten care. Off-site afterschool care for the Morris Plains school district. www.blakechildrenscenter.org

Kiddie Academy of Morristown Headquarters Plaza Mall, Morristown, 973-455-7450.

Little Lights Learning Academy Calvary Baptist Church, 10 Martin Luther King Ave., Morristown, 973-829-9990.

Presbyterian Church Nursery School 65 South St., Morristown, 973-540-1114.

The Red Oaks School 21 Cutler St., Morristown, 973-539-7853.

Shalom Yeladim -The Judie Gerstein Early Learning Center 177 Speedwell Ave., Morristown, 973-538-8284.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

195

INFANTS – FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN

Full & Part-Time sessions, year ’round Open 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. NOW 1/2 day sessions, 3-5 years ENROLLING Before and after care available Drop-In Available 15 years of exceptional care with experienced teachers

“The Intelligent Choice in Child Development”

• Age appropriate curriculum (art and music, science, math, language arts, Spanish, readiness skills, outside play, computers and more) • Internet camera system

R CALL FUOR! A TO

• Low child/teacher ratio • Trained, screened & certified teachers • CPR certified/First Aid certified/ state licensed • Sibling Discount

649 Central Ave., Westfield, NJ 07090

(908) 518-0900

www.cradlestocrayons.us Temple B’Nai Or Nursery School Overlook Rd., Morristown, 973-267-6424.

MORRIS TOWNSHIP

Bridge to Learning Child Care Center College of St. Elizabeth, Park Ave., Convent Station, 973539-1660.

The Montessori Children’s Academy 6 Kahn Rd., Convent Station, 973-410-9669.

Teddy & Me Day Care 100 Harter Rd., Morris Township, 973-538-6795.

NEW VERNON

New Vernon Presbyterian Nursery School 4 Lees Hill Rd., New Vernon, 973-326-9839.

W H I P PA N Y

Abundant Life Christian School 43 S. Jefferson Rd., Whippany, 973-463-9455.

Discovery Years Preschool 155 Algonquin Parkway, Whippany, 973-515-3654.

KinderCare Learning Centers

noah’s ark preschools Nurturing & educating children ages infant through kindergarten

45 Whippany Rd., Whippany, 973-428-3724.

King’s Kids Preschool & Day Care Center 45 S. Jefferson Rd., Whippany, 973-463-0123.

Our Lady of Mercy Academy 90 Whippany Rd., Whippany, 973-887-2611.

Rainbow Academy 24 S. Jefferson Rd., Whippany, 973-386-5520.

Admission at Noah’s Ark occurs on a rolling basis, with the highest enrollment periods being September and January. Because positions are highly sought after, we recommend getting on our waiting list.

somerset county preschools & k BEDMINSTER/PLUCKEMIN

Child Time 1 Bradford Rd., Bedminster, 908-658-9401.

Pluckemin Church Preschool Rt. 202, Pluckemin, 908-658-4720.

618 Central Ave., Westfield 908.232.0175 836 Mountain Ave., Westfield 908.232.7011 www.LearnOnTheArk.com

196

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education somerset county preschools & k

Saint James School 200 S. Finley Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-766-4774.

Somerset Hills Montessori School

BERNARDS TOWNSHIP

173 Madisonville Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-221-0797.

The Albrook School 361 Somerville Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-580-0661.

Blue Kangaroo Day School 409 King George Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-647-2600.

The Children’s Corner 45 Church St., Liberty Corner, 908-647-8401.

Gentle Shepherd Christian Preschool Somerset Hills Lutheran Church, 350 Lake Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-1430.

Ivy Leaf Academy 574 Allen Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-470-2220.

Little Footprints Learning Center 520 King George Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-647-0011.

Mendham Country Day School 204 Morristown Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-3323. Director: Barbara Rogers. Mendham Country Day School offers strong academic programs for pre-K to 6th grade. Before and after-school enrichment and summer camp programs available. Now enrolling for the new school year. Call today.

Millicent Fenwick Daycare Center Somerset Hills YMCA, 140 Mt. Airy Rd., Basking Ridge, 908766-7898.

Tiny Turtle Academy 547 Allen Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-326-6919.

The Treehouse Child Caring Center 1 E. Oak St., Basking Ridge, 908-221-1619.

Weintal Preschool 40 Whitenack Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-204-1294.

Zimmer Preschool 3048 Valley Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-604-8844.

BERNARDSVILLE

Palmer School 22 Church, Bernardsville, 908-766-3353.

Robins Nest Nursery School Rt. 202, Bernardsville, 908-766-7686.

Mendham County Day School Infant Care through 6th Grade

Where your child’s future begins...

We accept students into Kindergarten who miss the cut-off date for Kindergarten based on test scores!

204 Morristown Road • Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 • (908) 766-3323 www.mendhamcountrydayschool.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

St. John’s Nursery School

Child Time

379 Mt. Harmony Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-0374.

601 Buena Parkway, Bridgewater, 908-722-7837.

197

School of Saint Elizabeth

Giving Nest Preschool

30 Seney Dr., Bernardsville, 908-766-0244 ext. 12.

1601 Washington Valley Rd. (corner of Crim Rd.), Bridgewater, 908-704-9555.

JCC Blaustein Early Childhood Center

BOUND BROOK

20 Equator Ave, Flagtown, 908-369-4436.

Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center, 775 Talamini Rd. (conveniently located off Rt. 202-206), Bridgewater, 908-725-6994 x208. Email: LWeiss@ssbjcc.org. Website: www.ssbjcc.org/earlychildhood. Year-round infant/toddler program beginning at 6 weeks of age. Register now for 2014-2015 school year!. Half and full day school programs for 2, 3 & 4 year olds with nurturing licensed professional staff who promote academic learning in a developmentally appropriate child centered environment. Early drop off (7:30am) and late stay hours (6:00pm) available. Full Day Kindergarten as well as Half Day Kindergarten Enrichment programs for both AM and PM children with Van Holten & Hamilton School busing available for kindergarten enrichment. J Crew Kindergarten Afterschool program for Grades K-6. Children enjoy swimming instruction in our heated indoor pool as well as physical education and music as a regular part of our program. “GrandFriends” intergenerational program for Kindergarten! Our flexible programs accommodate your schedule. Fun filled days at summer camp and vacation camp programs ensure a well rounded, quality program. Reserve your child’s space now! Call for a personal tour and information. See display ad on page 198. Upcoming Special Events Mar 9 Purim Carnival. Mar 16 Mah Jongg Tournament. May 4 Lag B’Omer Maccabi Games. Jun 9 Annual Golf Outing (Raritan Valley Country Club). Jun 19 Mah Jongg Tournament. Jun 23 First Day of JCC Camp Ruach.

Children’s Corner of Bridgewater United Methodist Church

203 Rt. 28, Bridgewater, 908-725-2326.

Rainbow Corner Child Care 516 Thompson Ave., Bound Brook, 732-805-9900.

Wee People Preschool & Kindergarten 317 Winsor St., Bound Brook, 732-469-7029.

BRANCHBURG

Apples and Books Learning Center 1036 Rt 202S, Branchburg, 908-429-4275; 1941 Holland Brook Rd., 908-369-5800.

Bright Horizons at Branchburg 1005 Rt. 22W., Branchburg, 908-252-1533.

Children’s Garden Learning Center 301 Maple Ave., Branchburg, 908-369-3838.

The Goddard School 3322 Rt. 22W, Branchburg, 908-231-8600.

Kangaroo Kids Child Care & Learning Ctr 1047 Rt. 28, North Branch, 908-231-7800.

KinderCare of Branchburg 212 Raritan Valley College Rd., Branchburg, 908-704-0091.

B R I D G E W AT E R T O W N S H I P / R A R I TA N

Bright Horizons at Bridgewater 1246 Rt. 202/206N, Bridgewater, 908-658-4400.

Cherry Blossom Montessori

651 Country Club Rd., Bridgewater, 908-526-9596.

North Branch Reformed Church Preschool The Preschool Place & Kindergarten at Temple Sholom N. Bridge St., Bridgewater, 908-722-0101.

Raritan Valley Montessori

;\ZMVO\P WN 5QVL ;\ZMVO\P WN +PIZIK\MZ

120 Finderne Ave., Bridgewater, 908-595-2900.

St. Ann School 29 Second Ave., Raritan, 908-725-7787.

St. Bernard Pre-School & Kindergarten 500 U.S. Hwy. 22, Bridgewater, 908-526-9009.

Stellar Academy 757 Rt. 202-206, Bridgewater, 908-252-1166.

Kassandra Hayes Admission Director 908.766.0622 x455 khayes@fhcds.org

Far Hills Country Day School 697 Mine Brook Road/Route 202 Far Hills, NJ 07931 www.fhcds.org

FA R H I L L S

Far Hills Country Day School Rt. 202, Far Hills, 908-766-0622. A Pre-K-grade 8 independent school guided by a dual mission to provide academic excellence and character development. The 54-acre campus includes learning gardens, age-specific computer labs and media centers, a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center, large athletics center, outdoor fields and tennis courts, a ropes course, meadows, ponds & woodlands. www.fhcds.org

198

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education somerset county preschools & k G L A D S T O N E / P E A PA C K

The Cottage School 224 Main St., Gladstone, 908-719-9610. Playgroup, Preschool, Kindergarten and 1st–6th grades. The Cottage School is a multicultural learning community that values and fosters the children's spirit of discovery to sustain their innate abilities and passion for learning. We create a non-competitive environment where creativity and the joy for learning are nurtured. Children are introduced to poetry, folktales, drama, math, art, music, dance, baking, natural sciences, social studies, French and Spanish. See display ad on this page. www.thecottageschool.net

Gill St. Bernard’s School St. Bernard’s Rd., Gladstone, 908-234-1611 ext. 245.

The Willow School 1150 Pottersville Rd., Gladstone, 908-470-9500. Director: Amy Swenson. Enrollment: 132. Ratio: 12:1. Tuition: $10,500$26,700. Deadline: Feb. 1. The Willow School is a co-educational day school, grades Preschool through Eighth. Academic excellence, a core virtue program, mastery of the English language and joy of learning are the four pillars of The Willow School. See display ad on page 191. www.willowschool.org

HILLSBOROUGH

The Cottage School Playgroup • Preschool • Young K Kindergarten • 1st–6th Grades Spanish, French & Art

Summer Programs June 10-13 • June 17-20 June 23-26 Spanish & French Language Immersion

908-719-9610 • thecottageschool.net 224 Main Street, Gladstone We create a non-competitive environment where creativity and the joy of learning are nurtured.

Alef Beit Sefer of Temple Beth-El 67 Route 206, Hillsborough, 908-704-1212.

All Day Learning Centers 170 Township Line Rd., Hillsborough, 908-359-0803.

Bright Horizons at Hillsborough 133 Stryker Rd., Hillsborough, 908-281-4477.

A Bright Start Child Development Center

Childtime Learning Center

313 Triangle Rd., Hillsborough, 908-431-9000.

357 Amwell Rd., Hillsborough, 908-359-2499.

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Four Seasons Child Care

199

SOMERVILLE

381 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-6440.

The Goddard School 378 S. Branch Rd., Bldg. 5, Hillsborough, 908-371-1499.

Hillsborough YMCA 19 E. Mountain Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-0490 ext. 618.

KinderCare Learning Center 756 Rt. 206S, Hillsborough, 908-431-1565.

The Learning Experience 346 Auten Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-3904.

Mary Mother of God Nursery School 157 S. Triangle Rd., Hillsborough, 908-874-8489.

Pals Play & Learn School 311 Amwell Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-7257.

First Baptist Church Preschool 132 W. High, Somerville, 908-725-1016.

Good Shepherd Christian Day Care Center 300 Union Ave., Somerville, 908-704-0080.

Immaculate Conception School 41 Mountain Ave., Somerville, 908-725-6516.

Kiddie Corner at Somerville YMCA 2 Green St., Somerville, 908-722-4567.

The Wonder Years Academy 250 Rt. 202/206N, Somerville, 908-575-1900.

WA R R E N T O W N S H I P

South Branch Reformed Church School

Educational Child Care

870 River Rd., Hillsborough, 908-369-7885.

10 North Rd., Warren, 732-356-6746.

The Goddard School MARTINSVILLE

258 King George Rd., Warren, 908-580-1600.

Giving Nest Preschool & Kindergarten

KinderCare Learning Center

1949 Washington Valley Rd., Martinsville, 732-302-1321.

19 Mountain Blvd., Warren, 908-412-8707.

Little Friends of Jesus Nursery School

The Learning Experience

1881 Washington Valley Rd., Martinsville, 732-667-5272.

76 Stirling Rd., Warren, 908-222-7620.

Nicholas Montessori School

Mountain Top School for Young Children at Temple Har Shalom

817 Chimney Rock Rd., Martinsville, 732-748-9330. Director: Ramani Sivapalan. Ages: 21⁄2-6. Enrollment: 37. Ratio: 1:7. Let us help your child develop an inner thirst for knowledge that will last a lifetime. 3, 4 and 5 half- and full-day sessions; small class sizes; state certified; lunch and snacks.

N E S H A N I C S TAT I O N

The Children’s Garden of Learning Nursery School 301 Maple Ave., Neshanic Station, 908-369-3838.

Christian Nurturing Center 715 Amwell Rd. (& Main), Neshanic Station, 908-369-5215.

NORTH PLAINFIELD

Giving Nest Preschool & Kindergarten 300 Clinton Ave., North Plainfield, 908-754-2060.

Growing Tree Preschool & Kindergarten 18 Park Pl., North Plainfield, 908-754-5505.

Holy Cross Preschool 40 Mercer Ave., North Plainfield, 908-753-0662.

The Sundance School 401 Greenbrook Rd., North Plainfield, 908-561-5055.

Taylor’s Learning Center 624 Somerset St., North Plainfield/Watchung, 908-222-1114; 151 Cedar St., North Plainfield, 908-222-9009.

POTTERSVILLE

104 Mt. Horeb Rd., Warren, 732-748-9800, mountaintop@ templeharshalom.org. Ages: 10 mos.-5 yrs. Enrollment: 60. Affiliation: Jewish, open to all families. www.mountaintopschool.org Our well-rounded curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness and includes science, arts and crafts, music, yoga, computers, library, sports, cooking and stands on the foundation of Jewish values. Excellent student-teacher ratio with certified teachers with years of experience. Flexible options include full and half day classes, after school enrichment, early drop-off and after-care. An active Parent Committee offers opportunities for the entire family to become involved. Programs include Mommy & Me, a sevenweek summer camp and drop-in childcare.

Primrose School of Warren 117 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, 908-822-9900. Ages: 6 wks.-fulltime Kindergarten and before/after school program. Primrose is an accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience. As the leader in educational child care, we partner with parents to help children build the right foundation for future learning and life. Our goal is to help children have fun while building Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts.® See display ad on inside back cover. www.primrosewarren.com

Union Village Nursery School 1130 Mountain Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-647-4440. We are a state-licensed nursery school offering a stimulating and hands-on educational program. Our school serves children 21⁄2 to 5 in a safe nurturing environment. Discover, create and learn at UVNS! www.unionvillagenurseryschool.org

The Kid’s House Nursery School 8 Hacklebarney Rd., Pottersville, 908-439-3979.

WAT C H U N G

Pottersville Preschool

Giving Nest Preschool

2091 Black River Rd., Pottersville, 908-439-3913.

225 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, 908-222-1003.

200

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education somerset county preschools & k G L A D S T O N E / P E A PA C K

CRANFORD

Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School 11 Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-276-1166.

Taylor’s Learning Center

Calvary Nursery School & Child Care

624 Somerset St., N. Plainfield/Watchung, 908-222-1114.

108 Eastman St., Cranford, 908-272-3962.

union county preschools & k BERKELEY HEIGHTS

Discovery Child Care Center 1 Commerce Dr., Cranford, 908-272-2560.

Geraldine Nursery School & Kindergarten 34 Forest Ave., Cranford, 908-276-2934.

Berkeley Heights YMCA Preschool

Over the Rainbow Nursery School

Berkeley Heights YMCA, 550 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-8373.

25 South Ave. W., Cranford, 908-272-2466.

Diamond Hill Montessori School

560 South Ave. E., Cranford, 908-653-1231.

105 Diamond Hill Rd., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-5051. Directors: Jack Clemence and Elena Schroeder. Ages: 21⁄2-6. Enrollment: 60. Ratio: Toddlers: 4:1; Others 8:1. Tuition: $3,110-$9,610. Our preschool offers full and part-time programs including a full day kindergarten and extended day. Curriculum and enrichment include foreign language, yoga, music, fine arts, piano, cooking and more. In our rich environment children experience the excitement of learning, explore their creativity, develop at their own pace and actively share in the learning process. www.diamondhillmontessori.com

Primrose School of Berkeley Heights 260 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-418-6225. Ages: 6 wks.-full-time Kindergarten and before/after school program. Primrose is an accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience. As the leader in educational child care, we partner with parents to help children build the right foundation for future learning and life. Our goal is to help children have fun while building Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts.® See display ad on inside back cover. www.primroseschools.com/schools/berkeley-heights

Rainbow Academy St. Michael’s Preschool 100 Alden, Cranford, 908-276-9425.

Temple Beth-El Mekor Chayim Nursery School 338 Walnut Ave., Cranford. 908-276-7351.

Trinity Episcopal Day School 205 North Ave. E., Cranford, 908-276-2881.

YMCA Preschool at the Community Center 220 Walnut Ave., Cranford, 908-233-2700 ext. 423.

GARWOOD

K.D.’s Kids, Inc. 213 Center St., Garwood, 908-301-1616.

Westfield Area Y 500 East St., Garwood, 908-301-1616.

M O U N TA I N S I D E

Community Presbyterian Nursery School 1459 Deerpath, Mountainside, 908-232-9490.

Union Village Nursery School

Holy Trinity Interparochial School

1130 Mountain Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-647-4440. We are a state-licensed nursery school offering a stimulating and hands-on educational program. Our school serves children 21⁄2 to 5 in a safe nurturing environment. Discover, create and learn at UVNS! www.unionvillagenurseryschool.org

Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 304 Central Ave., Mountainside, 908-233-1899.

Westminster Nursery School 725 Mountain Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-4880. Director: Kathy Sang. Ages: 21⁄2 –3 & 4, AM and PM kindergarten enrichment program. Low student/teacher ratio. Given the opportunity to make discoveries about themselves and their world in a secure, comfortable environment with a developmentally appropriate curriculum, children are better able to develop positive self-esteem and life-long enthusiasm for learning. Schedule: 2, 3 & 5 day programs plus afternoon lunch enrichment options. www.westminsternurseryschool.org

CLARK

Osceola Church Nursery School 1689 Raritan Rd., Clark, 908-272-3668.

union Village Nursery school 1130 Mountain Ave., Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

908-647-4440

♥ A variety of enrichment programs compliment morning classes ♥ Indoor play area & new outdoor playground ♥ Hands-on curriculum ♥ 2-4 teachers in each class ♥ Early/Late care options available ♥ We follow the Warren School Calendar

Call today to schedule a tour. Seeing is believing!

Fran Pearlson, School Director FranPearlson@optonline.net

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Primrose School of Mountainside

Congregation Israel of Springfield

1038 Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-228-5589. Ages: 6 wks.-full-time Kindergarten and before/after school program. Primrose is an accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience. As the leader in educational child care, we partner with parents to help children build the right foundation for future learning and life. Our goal is to help children have fun while building Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts.® See display ad on inside back cover. www.primrosemountainside.com

339 Mountain Ave., Springfield, 973-467-9666.

NEW PROVIDENCE

The Academy of Our Lady of Peace 99 South St., New Providence, 908-464-8657.

Faith Nursery School 524 South St., New Providence, 908-464-5177.

Presbyterian Church Nursery School 1307 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-665-0951.

St. Andrews Nursery School & Kindergarten 419 South St., New Providence, 908-464-4878.

Santa Fe Centers 1441 & 1496 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-665-1235.

S C O T C H P L A I N S / FA N W O O D

Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA 1340 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-889-8880.

JCC of Central New Jersey 1391 Martine Avenue Scotch Plains, 908-889-8800.

L’Academy Montessori 1577 E. Second St., Scotch Plains, 908-322-2450.

201

Holy Cross Christian Nursery School 639 Mountain Ave., Springfield, 973-379-7160.

St. James the Apostle School 41 S. Springfield Ave., Springfield, 973-376-5194.

Temple Beth Ahm Preschool 60 Temple Dr., Springfield, 973-376-0539, ext. 18.

Temple Sha’arey Shalom Preschool 78 S. Springfield Ave., Springfield, 973-379-5387.

SUMMIT

Bilingual Buds Immersion School for Children 587 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-8088. Bilingual Buds is at the forefront of immersion education. Students ages 21⁄2-grade 4 accomplish a robust academic curriculum in two languages — English/Spanish or English/Mandarin Chinese. All academic subjects are taught in the target language, as well as P.E., music. In addition to its academic rigor, Bilingual Buds offers a caring, small-school environment where students receive highly individualized attention, challenge and support. Beginners welcome. See display ad on page 113. www.bilingualbuds.com

Central Presbyterian Church Weekday Nursery School 70 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-0484.

The Connection Preschool The Connection for Women and Families, 79 Maple St., Summit, 908-273-4242. A certified preschool enrichment program for ages 3-5 includes music, art, dance, swimming and more. www.theconnectiononline.org

Saint Bartholomew Academy

Cornerstone School of Summit

2032 Westfield Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-322-4265.

561 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-277-4400.

Scotch Plains Academy 1595 E. Second St., Scotch Plains, 908-322-4399.

Scotch Plains Baptist Christian Pre-School

www.KIDSGUIDEnj.COM Get more info with easy links to Kids Guide listings!

333 Park Ave., Scotch Plains, 908-322-5487.

Westminster Preschool 74 Martine Ave. South, Fanwood, 908-889-4405.

Willow Grove Pre-School 1961 Raritan Rd., Scotch Plains, 908-232-7117.

The Wonder Years Academy 133 South Ave., Fanwood, 908-222-8992.

SPRINGFIELD

The Children’s Academy, A Montessori School 37 Church Mall, Springfield, 973-379-3524. Director: Debra Smith. Ages 21⁄2-61⁄2. Children’s Academy is a Montessori preschool and kindergarten dedicated to providing children, ages 21⁄2-61⁄2 with a lasting educational experience. French, science, social studies and music enhance the individualized curriculum. For more information, call or email thechildrensacademy@comcast.net. www.childrensacademy.net

The Children’s Academy A Montessori School “awakening the spirit in your child”

Ages 21⁄2 – 61⁄2 Individualized curriculum enhanced by French, science, social studies and music Before and after care • Summer camp

OPEN HOUSE 11am-2pm January 25, 2014 37 Church Mall • Springfield

973-379-3524 thechildrensacademy@comcast.net

www.childrensacademy.net

202

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education union county preschools & k SUMMIT

Kent Place School 42 Norwood Ave., Summit, 908-273-0900. Ages: 3-5. Enrollment: 30. Ratio: 5:1. Tuition: $14,300-$23,500. The Kent Place preschool programs are co-educational and provide a strong academic foundation for boys and girls ages three to five. Our spacious classrooms are carefully planned environments where children have daily opportunities to engage in block-building, dramatic play, sensory exploration, reading, puzzle work, computers, drawing, writing and art activities. We offer state-of-the-art facilities on a 26-acre campus. Taught by experienced and highlyeducated early childhood teachers, hands-on math, literacy, science and social studies lessons are woven into our daily curriculum and provide on-going challenges, skill development and preparation for the expectations of kindergarten. Our

program is also enriched with specialist classes in physical education, dance, music, French, Spanish and library, as well as seasonal field trips. The Junior Pre-Kindergarten, which is for three- and four-year-olds, meets Monday-Friday, 8:30 to 12:30pm. Pre-kindergarten, which is for four- and five-yearolds, meets Monday-Friday, 8:30 to 2:30pm. An aftercare program is available for students in pre-kindergarten.

Learning Circle YMCA 95 Morris Ave., Summit, 908-273-7040.

St. Teresa’s Preschool & Kindergarten 306 Morris Ave., Summit, 908-277-6043. Director: Christine Monaco. Grades: PreK-Kindergarten. A faith-centered school for 2, 3 and 4 year olds and children entering kindergarten, our state-licensed, modern facility and experienced staff provide a safe, nurturing place for children to begin their educational journey. All day kindergarten features gym, music and Spanish enrichment. Morning and afternoon half day preschool for 21⁄2–4 yr. olds. Extended days available Monday to Friday.

Summit JCC Nursery School 67 Kent Place Blvd., Summit, 908-277-3919.

SuperKids Childcare & Learning Center 2 Broad St., Summit, 908-598-8383.

Temple Sinai Early Childhood Education

TODDLER & ME PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

208 Summit Ave., Summit, 908-273-4921 ext. 31. Director: Dr. Amy Damast. Ages: 1-5. Open enrollment. Our program is research-based and includes both child-centered and teacher-guided instruction. Children are taught developmentally appropriate skills (social, cognitive, linguistic and physical) using themes that emerge during classroom interactions. This type of “emergent” curriculum allows children with all learning styles to move through skills mastery at their own pace, using materials and activities that interest them. Classes are available for children ages 1 through 5. Summer camp is also available. www.templesinainj.org

Wesley Center for Preschool Education 17 Kent Place Blvd., Summit, 908-277-1700.

ENRICHMENT SUMMER CAMP September 2013

TOT SHABBAT Dr. Amy Damast, Director 908.273.4921x31 Summit, NJ amy@templesinainj.org

All are welcome! templesinainj.org/content/ECEP/

306 Morris Ave., Summit NJ 07901

“A Special Place To Learn And Grow!” All Day Kindergarten Gym, Music & Spanish Year to Grow Class Half Days: 2 ⁄ year olds, 2 or 3 days/week 3 year olds, 3, 4 or 5 days/week 4 year olds, 4 or 5 days/week Extended days available M-F 1

For registration details, call

908-277-6043

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

203

Zadie’s Nurturing Den of Summit 1 Walnut St.; Summit, 908-277-8584; 141 S. Harrison St., East Orange, 973-395-5100. Open 24 hrs. 7 days. A unique family day care program dedicated to providing a warm “home-like” environment for children ages 6 weeks to kindergarten. Our services are geared towards the needs of working parents in a new state-of-the-art facility offering the finest in safety, security and services for your child. www.zadiesden.com. See ad on back cover.

TEMPLE EMANU-EL Early Childhood Education Program Parent/Toddler Programs Classes for 2 to 6 year olds Certified Experienced Teachers Music & Movement Specialists Camp Program

UNION

Kean University Child Care & Development Center Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave., Union, 908-737-5300.

YM-YWHA of Union County 501 Green Lane, Union, 908-289-8112.

WESTFIELD

Bamboo Shoots 836 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-9550. Diversified full day Chinese program for preschoolers to 2nd grade where children acquire fluency in Mandarin, learn traditional Chinese characters, develop self-confidence, independence and become curious and lifelong learners. Well implemented academic and activity-based curriculum to foster children’s proficiency of Mandarin. Limited availability. Summer camps. See display ad on page 191. bambooshootseducation.com

The Christopher Academy 510 Hillcrest Ave., Westfield, 908-233-7447.

Cradles to Crayons Learning Center, Inc. 649 Central Ave., Westfield, 908-518-0900. Open 7am-7pm. Quality care for ages birth—full-day kindergarten by trained, screened and certified teachers. Full and part-time sessions are offered year ’round in an educational learning environment. Curriculum includes computer, arts/crafts, science/math/writing, readiness skills, outside play, language arts, music and movement. Internet camera system. Half-day session offered to 3-5 year olds. See display ad on page 195. www.cradlestocrayons.us

Offering Full-Day Kindergarten and Half-Day Kindergarten Enrichment 756 East Broad Street • Westfield, NJ 07090

908-232-7663 class sizes, a home-like setting, nurturing and collegedegreed teachers, and a day full of fun activities. Call today to schedule a tour! www.kinderprepofwestfield.com

Noah’s Ark Child Care 836 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-7011; 618 Central Ave., Westfield, 908-232-0175. Infants, toddlers, preK, Kindergarten. www.learnontheark.com Noah’s Ark embraces the impressionable first years in a child’s life by fostering each child’s uniqueness. With activities and curriculum developed specifically for each age group, your child will learn by having fun. We pride ourselves in embracing children’s natural curiosity, inspiring them to explore the world around them. With colorful, loving classrooms full of books, toys, paints and activities, minds are sure to be engaged and feel happy. Most importantly at Noah’s Ark, wondering why always ends in fun. Progress is continually evident in your child’s emotional growth, social skills, verbal communication, intellectual awareness and physical capability. Spanish incorporated during the day. See display ad on page 195.

Here We Grow! Child Development Center 422 Central Ave., Westfield, 908-233-6000. Ages: 6 wks.-6 yrs. Full day kindergarten. Child care with higher standards. The key to success is establishing a trusting relationship between parents, caregivers and the child. Your child will feel secure in a warm and loving atmosphere where they can grow physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually.

Holy Trinity Interparochial School 336 1st St., Westfield, 908-233-0484.

Kinderprep 812 South Ave., Westfield, 908-317-6900, email: kinderprep95@aol.com. Directors: Lara Pallant and Jennifer Kelly. “A Place for Creative Beginnings.” Full Day Kindergarten, Preschool and Summer Camp. Enrolling for Summer and Fall 2014. Kinderprep is a learning environment designed to enhance children’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development. Our program is flexible, encouraging each child to learn at his or her own pace. We offer small

inderprep “A Place for Creative Beginnings”

Full Day Preschool & Kindergarten ages 2 ⁄ -6 Summer Camp 1

2, 3, 5 Days • Extended hours available Celebrating 18 years of Excellence in Early Childhood Education (908) 317-6900 www.kinderprepofwestfield.com Kinderprep95@aol.com 812 South Ave. West, Westfield, NJ

204

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

education union county preschools & k WESTFIELD

Precious People Early Learning Center 132 South Ave. E., Westfield, 908-233-2330.

Wesley Hall School for Early Childhood First United Methodist Church, 1 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908233-9570. Morning and afternoon sessions. 21⁄2 years through Kindergarten. Lunch and enrichment classes available; full day Kindergarten. Call to schedule a school tour. www.wesleyhall.org

Westfield Area Y

Presbyterian Nursery School and Kindergarten 140 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-233-0766. A loving, caring environment where children may discover the world around them through play, investigation, and inquisitive thought. Children are encouraged to build a strong self image, gain confidence, utilize critical thinking skills and to develop positive relationships under the direction of our experienced and highly educated early childhood teachers. Two full-time certified teachers per class enable our staff to provide hands-on learning experiences as well as differentiated instruction to a small student-teacher ratio. Half day sessions–21⁄2, 3, and 4 year olds. All day Kindergarten, TOPS program for children 2 years and younger. Call for more information or to schedule a tour.

Redeemer Lutheran School 229 Cowperthwaite Pl., Westfield, 908-232-1592.

St. Paul’s Day School 414 Broad St., Westfield, 908-233-5417.

Temple Emanu-El’s Early Childhood Education Program 756 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-232-7663. Director: Jill Cimafonte. Ages: 2-6. Enrollment: 150. Ratio: 1:6 to 1:8. Tuition: $2,420-$9,350. Affiliation: Jewish. Ongoing registration, space permitting. Temple Emanu-El’s Early Childhood Education Program provides a warm, nurturing environment for each child. Through a developmentally appropriate approach, children are provided varied experiences that stimulate and enhance their creativity and personal growth. Classes offered for ages 13 months (parent/toddler) up through 6 years old, including full-day kindergarten. Summer camp program is also offered. The program has been accredited by the National Association for the Education of the Young Child (NAEYC) since 2000.

422 E. Broad St., Westfield, 908-233-2700 ext. 423. 170 Elm St., Westfield, 908-654-8460.

Westfield Cooperative Preschool 125 Elmer St., Westfield, 908-233-4501.

Westfield Day Care Center 140 Mountain Ave., Westfield, 908-232-6717.908-654-8460.

ELEMENTARY & SECONDARY The New Jersey Association of Independent Schools (NJAIS), serving independent and elementary and secondary schools throughout New Jersey, provides a school directory and parent information at www.njais.org. For an overview of area private schools and information about SSAT testing, visit www.ssat.org. For free preparation materials for ISEE testing, visit the ERB website at erblearn.org. See www.boardingschools.com or www.boardingschoolreview.com for a directory of boarding schools, guided search features, profiles and other information. The National Coalition of Girls’ Schools provides resources about schools and educational opportunities for girls at www.ncgs.org. For a directory of New Jersey schools, official public school report cards and additional information about education in New Jersey, visit the State of New Jersey Department of Education website. www.state.nj.us/education Consult greatschools.org for listings of 200,000 public and private schools serving students from preschool through high school and more than 800,000 parent ratings and review. The site also includes homework tools and valuable articles for parents. Visit Education at www.kidsguidenj.com for additional listings of Elementary & Secondary Schools.

Established 1948

Celebrating 65 Years

PRESBYTERIAN NURSERY SCHOOL and KINDERGARTEN

Where children discover the world around them through PLAY • 21⁄2 to 6 year olds • TOPS program for children 2 years and younger • Kindergarten – All Day Programs • Certified Teachers in each class • Music, Spanish & Movement Classes

Call for an appointment/information

908-233-0766

140 Mountain Avenue, Westfield

Bilingual Buds Immersion School for Children 587 Springfield Ave., Summit, 908-598-8088. A transformative elementary school experience—Kindergarten through grade 5. Students achieve high-level proficiency in Mandarin Chinese or Spanish through a robust academic curriculum and “specials” taught in the target language. The school’s parallel English curriculum allows for synergistic learning. In addition to its academic rigor, Bilingual Buds offers a caring, small-school environment where students receive highly individualized attention, challenge and support. New program starting Sept. 2014: Elementary integration program allowing students in Grades 1 through 4 to start learning Mandarin Chinese or Spanish with added support. See display ad on page 113. www.bilingualbuds.com

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

The Cottage School

Morristown-Beard School

224 Main St., Gladstone, 908-719-9610. Preschool, Kindergarten and 1st–6th grades. The Cottage School is a multicultural learning community that values and fosters the children's spirit of discovery to sustain their innate abilities and passion for learning. We create a non-competitive environment where creativity and the joy for learning are nurtured. We offer a mixed-age elementary group for children 5 through 10-yearolds. The program integrates traditional subject areas of language arts, mathematics, natural sciences, French and Spanish Immersion, Japanese calligraphy, world studies, physical education, and the fine arts. See display ad on page 198. www.thecottageschool.net

70 Whippany Rd., Morristown, 973-539-3032. 6-12.

Far Brook School 52 Great Hills Rd., Short Hills, New Jersey, 973-379-3442, fax 973-379-9237, email admissions@farbrook.org. Head of School: Amy Ziebarth. Grades Pre-K–8. Enrollment: 234. Ratio: 6:1. Coeducational. Full day tuition: $23,500-$31,075. Far Brook is a supportive, caring community that cherishes love of learning, creativity, and individuality. Central to the philosophy is the expectation that children are capable of intellectual depth and of meeting rigorous standards of achievement. Emphasis on the development of creative thinking, self-assurance, and initiative. Academic excellence through the integration of the liberal arts and sciences with the creative arts. Now offering half day Pre-K. www.farbrook.org.

205

Newark Academy 91 S. Orange Ave., Livingston, 201-992-7000. 6-12.

Oak Knoll School 44 Blackburn Rd., Summit, 908-522-8116. K-6 coed; 7-12 girls.

Purnell School 51 Pottersville Rd., Pottersville, 908-439-2154. Purnell is an allgirls boarding and day school for grades 9-12. Convenient to NYC and Philadelphia, the campus is close to the excitement and intellectual vibrancy of metropolitan areas, yet removed enough to create a reflective and inspirational atmosphere. See display ad on page 206. www.purnell.org Feb 9 Open House.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Gill St. Bernard’s School St. Bernard’s Rd., Gladstone, 908-234-1611 ext. 245. PK-12.

Kent Place School 42 Norwood Ave., Summit, 908-273-0900. Director: Susan C. Bosland. Ages: Preschool-12th grade. Enrollment: 636. Ratio: 7:1. Tuition: $14,300-$36,460. Application deadline: Jan. 10. Founded in 1894, Kent Place School is New Jersey’s only independent, nonsectarian, college preparatory school for girls, with a co-educational nursery and pre-kindergarten program. Kent Place is committed to an overall program of excellence that allows each girl to achieve her maximum potential. Special features include: The Ethics Institute; more than 20 Advanced Placement courses; individualized college counseling; state-of-the-art technology integrated through the curriculum; outstanding options in the fine arts, music, drama and dance; athletic competition in the Union County Conference and state and county tournaments; Honor Code; Global Service Learning and community service programs; leadership development. Financial aid is available.

Over one hundred and sixty specialized schools in New Jersey serve students aged 3-21 with disabilities. The New Jersey Department of Education monitors out of district school placements. For a complete list of schools and info about state and federal regulations, see www.state.nj.us/education/specialed Formed in 2011, the Alliance of Private Special Education Schools of North Jersey is an alliance of state-approved private special education schools in northern and central New Jersey. Visit their website for assistance in finding appropriate schools and information about the referral process. 973-407-0596 www.specialeducationalliancenj.org Independent of or in collaboration with the home school district, special education parent groups meet for support, advocacy and education. Many host professional speakers and workshops throughout the school year and welcome parents of neighboring districts. See listings under Education Services – LD Support for some of the most active groups. Visit Special Education at www.kidsguidenj.com for complete school listings.

The Craig School 10 Tower Hill Rd., Mountain Lakes, 973-334-1295; Craig High School, 310 Lathrop Ave., Boonton. Grades: 3-12. Enrollment: 150. Student/teacher ratio: 4 to 1. The Craig School provides a strategy-based, college prep school experience that acknowledges learning disabilities, builds on aptitudes and strengthens self-awareness. We help our parents assess and understand learning disabilities and provide an internal support network. www.craigschool.org

206

NJ WINTER/SPRING KIDS GUIDE

Open House February 9, 2014

come see what makes purnell original All Girls, Grades 9-12 · Day, 5-Day & 7-Day Boarding College Preparation ∙ 4:1 Student/Faculty Ratio Strong Emphasis on Creative Arts

Learn more at www.purnell.org 51 Pottersville Road, Pottersville, NJ 908.439.2154

M A R K E T P L A C E

207

marketplace Children’s Sports & Dance

BOOKS – CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Consignment Store

Thousands of Wonderful Gently Used Books 908-464-3485, email: marym227@comcast.net. All types of gently used books: fiction, non-fiction, textbooks, children's books, mysteries, romance, self help, art, health and more. Hardcovers and paperbacks. Volume discounts. Paperbacks: 50 cents each, 3 for $1; 20 for $6; 50 for $12; 100 for $20; Hardcovers: $1 each; 3 for $2; 10 for $5; 50 for $20; 100 for $35.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

QUALITY USED & NEW EQUIPMENT & APPAREL

Turn old equipment into CASH Buy quality used sports & dance equipment at a fraction of the price Buy new sports equipment, accessories & apparel at competitive prices

Own Your Own Business Do you enjoy graphic arts? marketing? journalism? web development? publishing? activities with your family? And have an entrepreneurial spirit? Owner retiring, profitable, established publishing business for sale. Turnkey operation with tremendous expansion possibilities. Call 908665-0607 for more information.

EYEWEAR

Suburban Optik, Inc. 369 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-3322. Tues., Wed. & Fri. 8-5:30, Mon. & Thurs. 8-8, Sat. 8-3. Suburban Optik carries a huge selection of name-brand frames for the entire family. Choose from Polo, Gucci, Armani just to name a few. In addition, they are the only shop to guarantee children’s eyeglasses against breakage until age 12. Same day service is available in most cases and Drs. Laura

1279 Springfield Ave • New Providence

908.898.0080 • www.flipconsign.com A. Lukaszek, Brenda Lynly, and Brian Mackey, Optometric Physicians, are on premises at Suburban Eye Institute. Call 908-464-0123 to schedule an appointment.

PETS

Aspca.org Search for adoptable cats and dogs online by entering your zipcode.

www.kidsguidenj.com www.kidsguide.com HOSTED BY

COMPLETE INTERNET COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES River Has Been Providing Internet Services and Solutions Since1995. n Complete

Web Site Design and Web Application Development River employs an experienced team of graphic artists, programmers, copywriters and concept developers to ensure an effective web site to showcase your business. We can assist you in whole, or in part, in your internet endeavors. n Advanced

Hosting Services Including secure web site hosting, email hosting, MS Exchange Fortressing, virtualization, cloud services, application virtual appliances, remote backup and disaster recovery services.

n Our additional services range from Internet/Intranet consulting, firewalling, multi-platform virtual private networks, email systems to globally shared databases and custom business applications. n Graphic Design and Advertising Design Including logo design and corporate identity packages, brochure and ad development.

M A R K E T P L A C E

208

People for Animals

PETS

Associated Humane Societies Animal Care Centers Essex County: 124 Evergreen Ave., Newark, 973-824-7080; Ocean County: Humane Way at Lacey Rd., Forked River, 609693-1900; Monmouth County: 2960 Shafto Rd. (Rt. 547. GSP exit 102S), Tinton Falls, 732-922-0100. Open daily for pet adoption. www.ahscares.org

Best Friend Dog & Animal Adoption PO Box 355, Cranford, 908-486-0230.

Jersey Animal Coalition Box 225, Maplewood, 973-763-7322. Animal rescue and adoption. www.jaconline.org

Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter 194 Rt. 10W, East Hanover, 973-386-0590. Pet adoption (adult dogs and cats, puppies, kittens, rabbits) and educational programs for schools and organizations.

973-282-0890. Non-profit volunteer animal welfare organization holds pet adoption open houses for dogs, puppies and cats and offers low cost spay and neuter clinic.

Petfinder.com Homeless pet database in partnership with ASPCA.

Plainfield Area Humane Society 75 Rock Ave., Plainfield, 908-754-0300. Finding homes for homeless animals since 1933. www.pahs.petfinder.org

St. Hubert’s Giralda 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, 973-377-2295. Somerset Humane Society satellite: 3201 Rt. 22E, North Branch, 908526-3330.

S.A.R.A., Inc. PO Box 124, Berkeley Heights 07922, Betty “B,” 908464-1203. Animal rescue, placement, adoption, and fostering. Volunteers always needed.

Summit Animal League PO Box 1446, Summit, 07902, 908-665-1186. Non-profit animal rescue and adoption organization.

Two Beach Cottages Oceanfront & Beach Block Ocean Beach III/Lavallette

T OY S

Meyer’s Dolls Toys Hobbies 35 E. Northfield Rd., Livingston, 973-740-9400. Our 99th year providing over 10,000 classic and educational toys, collectible play dolls and accessories, Lionel and wooden trains, games, puzzles, baby gifts, building toys, arts and crafts, puppets. Huge playroom and party room. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, UPS shipping, free gift wrapping. www.meyerstoys.com

Therapy Nook

BEACH BLOCK Charming 2 bedroom beach block cottage just steps to the beach is an affordable rental any time of the year. Two bedrooms, full kitchen, dining room, living room with sleeper sofa, 3 satellite TVs, DVD/VCR, indoor and outdoor showers, patio, grill, AC, heat for year round comfort.

OCEANFRONT - BEING REBUILT!

Check with us about availability. Year round rental–full weeks available and off season weekends/weekly/ monthly rates available. Email for rates and availabillity.

Don't miss this great opportunity! marym227@comcast.net

125 Washington Valley Rd., Warren, 908-967-2421. Therapist recommended, child tested, parent approved educational toys and equipment for parents, teachers and therapists. Coming soon! See display ad on page 172. www.therapynookllc.com

VA C AT I O N R E N TA L S

Beach Cottage Rental Email: marym227@comcast.net. Beautiful 2 bedroom cottage in Ocean Beach/ Lavallette, NJ. Charming renovated 2 bedroom beach block cottage (sleeps 6). Completely furnished, full kitchen, dining room, living room with sofa sleepers, patio, gas grill, cable TV/VCR/DVD, AC, heat. 3 bedroom ocean front cottage being rebuilt. Check with us about availability. Year round rentals, enjoy beach living any time of the year. Don’t miss this great opportunity! Full weeks available in the summer; weekly and weekends available off season. Call or email for rates and availability.

Hudson Valley/Catskill Mountain Lakehouse Rental 908-665-2241. Enjoy an old-fashioned family vacation or parent getaway in the private lake community of Sleepy Hollow Lake in Athens, NY, 2 hr. drive from north central New Jersey. In winter, near Windham and Hunter Mountains, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. In summer, kayaking, swimming, fishing, tennis and more. Two bedroom, two bath, comfortably sleeps 2-5. Enter p538410 in the searchbox on www.flipkey.com for details and photos, then call 908-665-2241 for reservations.

M A R K E T P L A C E

209

VA C AT I O N R E N TA L S

AirBnB.com From apartments, rooms, whole houses to treehouses and boats, you can search rentals available in 192 countries.

BedandBreakfast.com Families can find an affordable and personal vacation experience by browsing www.bedandbreakfast.com, a comprehensive worldwide listing of bed and breakfasts, country inns, guest houses, lodges, cabins, historic hotels, small resorts, guest ranches, farmhouse accommodations, working farms, and ranch vacations.

FlipKey.com, HomeAway.com As an alternative to hotel stays, these sites feature thousands of vacation rental properties around the world, ranging from traditional condos, homes and villas to the more exotic.

VRBO.com Vacation Rentals By Owner provides travelling families with another source for finding a vacation rental home.

CONSIGNMENTS FLIP Consignment LLC 1279 Springfield Ave., New Providence, 908-898-0080. Children’s sports and dance consignment store that offers quality used and new equipment and apparel at affordable prices. Turn your old equipment into cash, buy used or new equipment at competitive prices. No appointment necessary. www.flipconsign.com

supplies and more. Photos of sale items are posted online. www.morrisrestore.org

The Resale Shop 31B Chatham Rd., Summit, 908-273-5564. Mon.-Sat. 10-5. The sale of gently used items support seniors through Sage Eldercare.

Westfield Service League Thrift and Consignment Shop 114 Elmer St., Westfield, 908-233-2530. Tues.-Sat. 9-4. Gently used clothing for men, women, teens and children, shoes, books, household items, toys and bric-a-brac.

FLEA MARKETS

Dover Flea Market Downtown Dover, 973-989-7870. Open Sundays 9am-4pm April through December. www.doverfleamarket.com

Englishtown Auction 90 Wilson Ave., Englishtown, 732-446-9644. Open weekends year round. www.englishtownauction.com

Rice's Sale and Country Market 6326 Greenhill Rd., New Hope, PA, 215-297-5993. Tues. 7am-1:30pm. Sat. March-Dec. 7am-1pm. Outdoor and permanent indoor booths over 30 acres.

Catskill Mtn Hudson Valley Lakehouse Rental

Twice Is Nice 159 Mt. Pleasant Ave., East Hanover, 973-585-7696. Kids’ consignment for sizes infant-junior clothing, toys, books, DVDs, furnishings and accessories. No appointment needed. Call or check to see what season we are taking for clothing. www.twiceisnicekidsconsignments.com

Junior League of Summit Shops Costume Shop 105 Main St., Millburn, 973-379-5355. Vintage and antique clothing and accessories for rent. Thrift & Consignment Shop 37 DeForest Ave., Summit, 908-273-7344/7343. Like new clothing for the whole family, accessories and household items. Second floor consignment shop features new gift items as well. Thrift donations welcome; consignment 50-50 split. www.JLSummit.org

THRIFT SHOP

Bargain Box Thrift Shop 102 Mt. Kemble Ave., Rt. 202, Morristown, 973-267-1334. High quality, gently-used clothing for the family, handbags, household items, books and more. Proceeds benefit the Women’s Association of Morristown Medical Center.

The Jumble Store 110 Walnut Ave., Cranford, 908-276-0222. Junior League of Elizabeth-Plainfield thrift shop features new and gently used clothing and household items, children’s clothing and toy department.

Morris Habitat for Humanity ReStore 274 S. Salem St. (off Rt. 10W), Randolph, 973-366-3358. Wed.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5. New and very gently used kitchen cabinetry, appliances, home furnishings, building

amily getaway in the private lake community of Sleepy Hollow Lake in Athens, NY, a 2 hr. drive from north central New Jersey, on the train line to NYC. Close to Hunter & Windham in winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Kayaking, swimming, fishing, tennis in summer. Many other family activities nearby including hiking, drive-in movies, Howe Caverns, adventure parks at Hunter and WIndham and more. Two bdrm, 2 bath, sleeps 2-5, an ideal retreat for couples or family. Enter p538410 in the searchbox on www.flipkey.com for details and photos, then call 908.665.2241 for questions or reservations.

210

M A R K E T P L A C E

FAMILY RESTAURANTS The Music Man

Marcello’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

2305 Grand Central Ave. (Rt. 35N), Lavallette, 732-85-HAPPY. An old fashioned “singing” ice cream shoppe with waiters and waitresses performing a vaudeville style cabaret of upbeat American tunes every seating.

268 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, 908-464-4222, Fax 908-464-6363. Daily 11am-10pm. BYO. Fine Italian food in a casual atmosphere. From veal, chicken, seafood and pasta to brick oven pizza and subs, Marcello’s has something to please the whole family. Eat in, take out, party catering available.

Medieval Times 149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst, 888-WE-JOUST (888-935-6878). Inside the fully-enclosed climate controlled castle, you’ll feast on a fabulous medieval banquet while witnessing brave knights compete in daring games of skill, dangerous swordplay and an authentic jousting tournament. www.medievaltimes.com

“The Tavern on Main” “Casual, friendly dining where family & friends meet to eat” Lunch & Dinner Tues.-Sat 11:30 am-10 pm Sun. 11:30 am-9 pm Patio Dining in a Garden Setting

908-647-6919 227 Main Ave. Stirling

Showplace Ice Cream Parlour Centre St. & Beach Ave., Beach Haven, 609-492-0018. Memorial Day–Labor Day 6pm-late. Ice cream concoctions are named after Broadway show tunes and served by singing and dancing waiters and waitresses.

Stirling Hotel 227 Main Ave., Stirling, 908-647-6919. Tues.-Sat. 11:30am10pm, Sun. 11:30am-9pm. Menu: $3.95-$13.95, bar. A 1903 building with American West atmosphere — lariats and chaps decorate the walls. For the kids, coloring books and crayons are available and the menu features pizza, burgers and dogs, chicken fingers, and many other homecooked specialties for kids and adults! Steaks, ribs, grilled fish, roasted chicken and salads are featured daily. www.TheStirlingHotel.com

D DINE AT THE NE ME AN W O C

Enjoy the same great traditional Italian cuisine and pizza in our completely remodeled dining room or new outdoor patio Every dish prepared to order using the finest and freshest ingredients Open for lunch and dinner daily 11am-10pm

OutdoEW! on the or dining new pa tio!

268 Springfield Ave • Berkeley Heights 908-464-4222 • Fax 908-464-6363

C O U P O N S 211

C O ME E X P L O R E W I T H U S ! With this ad get

FREE FOOD

Yup, bring the kids and we’ll feed ’em! With paid admission, get your choice of 1 hot dog or chicken nuggets, soda & popcorn. Valid for up to 2 children’s lunches with 2 paid children’s admissions. Must be validated upon entrance. Not to be combined with any other offer. Value up to $16.10. Coupon cannot be reproduced. Exp. 12/31/14

Discovery Museum for Children 4 Vreeland Rd. Florham Park, NJ 973-966-8000 www.imaginethatmuseum.com

Does your child have foot pain? Flat feet, toe-in or toe out or a gait abnormality? Does your child have heel pain or suffer from a sports injury of the foot or ankle? Most times your child will not “outgrow” a foot deformity, as childhood issues may not develop symptoms until they’re in their 20s or 30s. Foot pain is NOT normal. Ease their pain so they don’t have to miss playing time. Promote ideal development.

Have your child examined by an expert in foot and ankle care.

212 C O U P O N S

COUPON COUPON COUPON Christopher, Art Journey Studio

Cordelia, Unity Charter School

CDâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Fish, Unity Charter School

C A L E N D A R 213

C A L E ND A R G U I D E The Calendar primarily lists one-time special events that do not require advance registration. See specific listings under Museums, Outdoor Education Centers, Theatre, Music and Dance, Entertainment and Going Places for places that offer daily or weekly children or family programs or programs that require tickets or advance registration . For additions and changes to the Kids’ Guide Calendar, visit Hot Picks at www.kidsguidenj.com. Send entries to be included on Hot Picks to kids@ kidsguidenj.com or fill out the form online to “submit event.” If you have an event of interest to children and families, please fax to 908665-2052, mail to Kids’ Guide, Box 892, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, or email to kids@kidsguidenj.com and we will try to include it in the next edition. The Summer/Fall print Kids’ Guide will cover events June–Nov., 2014. Deadline for calendar entries is May 10, 2014. H O L I D A Y NYC Free Holiday Events • Citigroup’s Annual Model Train Exhibit, Atrium, 153 E. 53rd St., 212-659-1747. Model trains run Mon.-Sat. 10-6, Sun. 125. • Ice Skating & Holiday Shops at Bryant Park, 44th & 6th, 8am-10pm. Skating thru Jan., holiday shops thru Jan. 3, special events. Skate rental available. • Rockefeller Center, 49th at 5th Ave., 212332-7654. Ice skating thru March, tree on display to Jan 5. • Santaland at Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., 212-695-4400. Visit with the world’s most famous Santa, 8th floor; puppet theatre on the 9th floor. • Kaleidoscope Light Show, Grand Central Station, 87 E. 42nd St., www.grandcentralterminal.com. 7 min. light show in the Main Concourse is shown every half hour 11am-9pm thru Jan. 1. Holiday Gift Fair in Vanderbilt Hall thru Dec. 24. Holiday train show in NY Transit Museum Gallery Annex thru Jan. 16.

D E C E M B E R

22, 29 Christmas Open House Proprietary House, 149 Kearny Ave., Perth Amboy, 908-826-5527. 1-5. Free. Tours, light refreshments, music. Decorated by The Royal Garden Club.

25 Reenactment of Washington Crossing the Delaware Washington Crossing State Park, Washington Grove, along Rt.29, Titusville, 609737-9303. 1pm. Witness the annual reenactment of Washington’s historic crossing of the Delaware in 1776.

T O

A R E A

E V E N T S

B Y

D A T E

D E C E M B E R

J A N U A R Y

Snowball Classic

Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games

Mennen Sports Arena, 161 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp., 973-326-7651. Free. An exhibition of Learn-to-Skate participants & soloist figure skaters.

Mennen Sports Arena, 161 E. Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973-326-7651. Skating exhibitions and Olympic flag signing.

24-26

Fly Fishing Show

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Garden State Exhibit Center, 50 Atrium Dr., Somerset, 732-469-4000. Fri. 10-6, Sat. 8:30-6, Sun. 9-4:30. Adult $18, under 12 $2, under 5 free.

Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia, ww.visitphilly.com. Two fireworks displays, 6pm & 12 midnight. Good viewing from Adventure Aquarium and Battleship New Jersey.

First Nights Family-friendly, alcohol free, New Years Eve celebration of arts and culture for all ages features 90+ events in 26 venues in and around Morristown • First Night Burlington County www.mainstreetmountholly.com. Festivities begin at 7pm. • First Night Haddonfield Kings Hwy., Tanner St. & Haddon Ave., Haddonfield,www.firstnighthaddonfield. org. Begins at 6pm. • First Night Morris County www.firstnightmorris.com. 7-midnight; fireworks at 9 and midnight. • First Night Ocean City 899 Moorlyn Terrace & Boardwalk, Ocean City, www.firstnightocnj.com. Opening festivities at 4pm, fireworks at midnight. • First Night Ocean County Seaside Heights, www.exit82.com. 125pm, fireworks at 5pm.

J A N U A R Y

25 Rutgers Geology Museum Open House Scott Hall, College Ave. Campus, New Brunswick, geologymuseum.rutgers.edu. 9-4. Free. Lectures, mineral sale, rock & mineral identification.

Fire and Ice Carving & Chili Festival High and White St., Mt. Holly, www.fireandicefestival.com. 10-4. Ice carving festival and annual chili cook-off, exhibits, entertainment and food.

25-26 4-H Winter Train Show Ted Blum 4-H Center, 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater, www.4histops.org. 10-5. Adults $4 under 12 $2. Featuring 4 track O gauge operating layout, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

26 Wassailing the Apple Trees Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Rd., Princeton, 609-924-2310. 1-4. Take part in the old English tradition of wassailing with wagon rides, bonfire, live music.

Mummers Parade Broad St. to JFK Boulevard, Philadelphia, www.visitphilly.com.10am. Bands and brigades march, dance and strut down Broad St. in colorful, lavish costumes.

9-12 Garden State Outdoor Sportsman Show NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, 201-9641800. Thurs & Fri. 1-9, Sat. 9-8, Sun. 9-5. $10 online $15 at the door.

17-19 New Jersey Winter RV Show NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, www.gsevents.com. Fri. 12-8, Sat. 10-8, Sun. 11-5. Adults $10. 12 and under free. $8. online. Recreational vehicles, accessories, campgrounds & travel destinations.

W I N T E R

20-Feb 7 Hudson County Restaurant Week Washington St., Hoboken, 732-599-3522. Fine dining at special prices. Participating restaurants online, www.hudsonrestaurant week.com

Jan 11-Mar 1 Maple Sugaring Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center, 247 Southern Blvd., Chatham Twp., 973635-6629. Most weekends Jan. 11-March 1. Learn how to identify and tap maple trees, collect sap, and make syrup. All ages, group programs available.

18-26 Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival Bridge St., Lambertville & New Hope, http://winterfestival.net. Two weeks of special events include ice carving demonstrations, parade, scavenger hunt, chili cook-off, entertainment, vendors and more.

F E B R U A R Y

1 Groundhog Day Celebration Grounds for Sculpture, 18 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, 609-586-0616. 11-4. Free with park admission. Meet the Groundhog. Music, educational tours, groundhoginspired workshops for ages 6-10.

MLK Day Celebration

1-2

West Essex Park, 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776. 10:30-12. $7. Take a winter walk scavenger-hunt style, uncovering facts and stories about Martin Luther King Jr. and his great achievments. Dress for the weather. Advance registration required.

1501 Glasstown Rd., Ext. 26, Rt. 55, Millville, 800-998-4552. 10-5. $5. Regional dealers from the Mid-Atlantic states. Books, ceramics, furniture, glass, jewelry and more. Refreshments.

Mid-Winter Antiques and Collectibles Show

214 C A L E N D A R F E B R U A R Y

S P R I N G

Feb 1-Mar 9

M A R C H

13-16

Ground Hog Day

Maple Sugaring

Spring Flower & Garden Show

Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-5800. 10-2. See world famous groundhog “Essex Ed” predict the weather. Free with admission.

Somerset County Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489. Sat. 10, 12 & 2, Sun 12 and 2. Free. Maple sugaring demonstrations conducted at the Sugar Shack, 1/2 mile hike from the EEC. Groups may schedule weekday demonstrations.

Sussex County Fairgrounds, Rt. 206 to 37 Plains Rd., Augusta, www.springfestgardenshow.com. 10-5. Adults $12, srs. $9, under 12 free. Landscape garden exhibits, marketplace, educational displays, kids plant -your-own-zone, garden cafe.

A Winter’s Day on the Farm Fosterfields, 73 Kahdena Rd., Morristown, 973-326-7645. 12-4. Bundle up for an experience at Fosterfield’s in the winter. Learn about ice harvesting, assist with farm chores. Wood stove cooking, wagon rides, children’s craft.

Commerce Bank Ballpark, 1 Patriots Park, Bridgewater, 908-766-7898.

7-9

Mar 1-31

Garden State Home Show Garden State Exhibit Center, 50 Atrium Dr., Edison, www.gsec.com. Fri. 1-8, Sat. 11-8, Sun.11-5. Display ideas for home improvement from home professionals.

Turtlefest

Big Apple Circus

The Wetlands Institute,1075 Stone Harbor Blvd., Stone harbor, 609-368-1211. 9-3. Pancake breakfast, games, arts & crafts, get up close and personal with live turtles. Call for reservations.

The Stages Festival

Super Pet Expo

Statewide, www.familyweek.com. Backstage tours, workshops, classes and free theatre performances throughout the state. Reservations are required for most events, visit website for schedule of events.

NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, www.njexpo center.com. Pet show, products, pet care and demonstrations.

8 Chocolate Festival

M A R C H

Maple Sugaring Festival

13-16

Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center, 247 Southern Blvd., Chatham, 973-635-6629. 12-4. $4. Tree tapping demos, games, maple crafts, taste tests.

NJ Flower & Garden Show

Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Hts. Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3720. 11-4. Adults $10, children $7. A delicious day of chocolatey family activities.

NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, www.njexpocenter.com. Thur. & Fri. 1-8, Sat. 10-8, Sun. 10-6. 11 and under free. Flower, garden & outdoor living show.

14-16 Mid-Winter Scottish & Irish Music Festival and Fair

Purim Carnival YM-YWHA of Union County, 501 Green Lane, Union, 908-289-8112. 12-3. Costume parade, prizes, petting zoo, games, food, more.

Belmar St.Patrick’s Day Parade

The Valley Forge Convention Center, King of Prussia, www.eohebrides.com. Two days of non stop entertainment and Celtic music.

Main St., Belmar, www.belmarparade.com. One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in New Jersey features pipe and marching bands, floats & Irish dancers. Parking at Belmar Marina, Rt. 35.

14-16

Great Backyard Bird Count

Essex County Maple Sugaring

Pyramid Mountain, 247 Boonton Ave., Boonton, 973-635-6629. 9-4. Free. Birdwatchers of all ages count birds in a 15 minute period.

Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776. 10:30-12. $7. Maple sugaring demonstrations.

15, 17

The Journey of Sap to Syrup Trailside Nature & Science Center, Coles Ave.& New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3570. 1:30-2:30. Feb. 17 at 3-4. $6 per person. See how 100% real maple syrup is made.

16 1830’s George Washington’s Birthday Celebration Historic Allaire Village, Rt.524, Wall Twp., 732-919-3500. 12-3. Free. Special church program at 1pm. Patriotic tribute, militia muster, campfire cooking.

Washington’s Birthday Celebration Johnson Ferry House, 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd., Titusville, 609737-2515. 1-4. Free. Period music, games and toys, and colonial activities.

17 Hub City Carnivale Family Day State Theatre, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, www.statetheatrenj.org. Activities, workshops, performances, free face painting, balloon animals, live music.

20-23 New Jersey Boat Show & Expo NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, www.njexpocenter.com. $6, 16 and under free. Boats, boat supplies, seminars, Kids Cove activities and food.

Feb 27- Mar 16

Maple Sugaring Open House Echo Hill Park, Clinton Township, 908-7821158. 9-3. Guided tour every 20 min. Experience first hand the North American tradition of maple sugaring. Raindate 3/9.

8 Matilda’s Tea Party Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 53 E. Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973-326-7601. 11-1. Ages 6-11. Enjoy tea, brunch and a magic show. Call for reservations.

9 St. Patrick’s Day Parade Downtown Somerville, somervillesaintpatricksparade.com. 1:30 rain or shine. Pre-parade show at 1.

1830s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Historic Allaire Village, Rt.524, Wall Twp., 732-919-3500. Programs at 1 & 2. Free.

12, 13, 19 Easter Bunny Express Whippany Railway Museum, Rt.10W & Whippany Rd., Whippany, www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net. 12-4. Adults $13, under 12 $8, under 1 free. 45-minute 10mile round trip from Whippany to Morristown with the Easter Bunny. Rides leave every hour. Advance reservations recommended. See listing under “Planes, Trains & Ships” for more information.

14-16 Spring Crafts at Morristown Morristown Armory, Western Ave., Morristown, www.artrider.com. Fri.-Sun. Contemporary work from 130 artists and crafts people from across the country.

15 St. Patrick’s Day Parade Morristown Green, South St., Morristown, www.paradeday.com. St. Patrick’s Day parade at the site of the first parade held by Gen. George Washington.

Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Seaside Park North, Seaside Heights, www.saintpatricksdayparade.com. Parade begins at noon.

Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade GSP Exit 140, Union Center, Morris Ave. to Roosevelt Ave., Union, www.unioncountystpatricksdayparade.com. Dancers, bagpipers and grand floats. KidsZone.

16 St. Patrick’s Day Parade 66 Main St. and Mt. Pleasant Ave., West Orange, westorangeparade.com. 12:15. Parade begins at 66 Main St. to Eagle Rock Ave.

21-24 New Brunswick Kennel Club Dog Show NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, www.njexpocenter.com.

22 Astro Day Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Hts. Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3700. 11-4. A day of space exploration with workshops & lectures for adults and children. A day of space exploration.

Morris Open Figure Skating Competition William G. Mennen Sports Arena, 161 Hanover Rd., Morris Twp., 973-326-7651. Free admission. U.S.F.S. figure skating competition hosted by Skating Club of Morris.

23 Fun Fest JCC of Central NJ, 1391 Martine Ave. S., Scotch Plains, 908-889-8800. 2-5. Family event featuring interactive entertainment, programs and performances for kids 2-11.

29-30 Pequest Open House & Flea Market Pequest Trout Hatchery, Rt. 46, Oxford, 908-637-4125. 10-4. Exhibits, fishing workshops, demonstrations, children’s activities celebrate the beginning of trout season and spring.

Greenberg’s Train & Toy Show NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave. at Raritan Center, Edison, www.greenbergshows.com. 10-4. Model railroads, train & toy merchandise.

C A L E N D A R 215 A P R I L

Fishing Derbies Come springtime, many local organizations sponsor a fishing derby for their young residents. Watch your rec. dept. or local news for details.

1-30 April is Autism Awareness Month For info, visit www.autismspeaks.org.

2-13 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia Horticulture Center, Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, www.jasgp.org/sakura. Most events free. Explore Japanese style and culture through cuisine, crafts, performances, demonstrations and tours of the 16th century style Shofuso Japanese House and Garden. Complete schedule on website.

2-4 Spring Crafts at Lyndhurst Lyndurst Estate, 1/2 mile S. of Tappenzee Bridge, Rt. 9S, Lyndhurst, www.artrider.com. Fine art and crafts fair with over 300 nationally acclaimed artists, held on the grounds of the Lyndhurst Estate. Proceeds benefit National Trust for Historic Preservation.

3 Super Science Saturday New Jersey State Museum, 205 W. State St., Trenton, 609-292-6464. Family exposition of sciences brings together scientists, educators and performers for a celebration of discovery. Demonstrations, lectures and hands-on activities.

3-6 Garden State Film Festival The Paramount Theater, 1400 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, www.gsff.org. Current independent film screenings, panel discussions with industry leaders, children’s workshops, open casting call.

5 4-H Science-sational Day Ted Blum 4-H Center, 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater, 908-526-6644. 9-3, check in at 8:30. A day of fun and learning with hands-on science workshops for children in grades 1-6. Advance registration.

Mendham Rotary Antiques Show West Morris Mendham High School, 65 E. Main St., Mendham, www.aadnj.org/showsall. Antique furniture, fine art, vintage porcelain and china, jewelry and other vintage collectibles.

Civil War Reenactment Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main St., Clinton, www.theredmill.org. 10-4. Adults $9, srs. $7, 6-12 $6. Civil War Reenactment encompasses Union and Confederate soldiers including infantry, Navy, artillery, and medics. Exhibits, encampments, civilians, weapon demonstrations including cannon firing, ladies of the era, activities for kids and families.

A P R I L

9 World Series of Birding Sponsored by New Jersey Audubon Society, statewide, 609-884-2736. Play, pledge or sponsor teams which have 24 hours to count as many bird species as they can identify within a defined, geographic area. Teams raise pledges per species and can use as a fundraiser for their school, organization or conservation cause. All ages and skill levels welcome. Call for information.

12 Easter Fun Fest Downtown Madison, 973-377-7830. Children and parents collect stuffed Easter eggs at participating downtown businesses. Visit with the Easter Bunny and enter to win prizes.

Wolf’s Birthday Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-5000. 11-4. Celebrate Methos and Atticus with wolf activities and educational programs.

Earth Day Celebration Deer Path Park, 120 W. Woodschurch Rd., Flemington, 908-782-1158. 10:30-4. Wild animal shows, nature-inspired crafts and wildlife presentations, 4-H animal clubs and exhibits from environmental agencies.

RunAPalooza

Branch Brook Park, Lake St. off Bloomfield Ave., Prudential Concert Grove, Newark, www.essexcherryblossom.com. Bloomfest, Japanese cultural activities and demonstrations, family fun run. Cellphone tour stops throughout the park.

Battle of Bound Brook Staats House, 17 Von Steuben Lane, Bound Brook, 732-469-5836. Reenactment of the historic battle. 18th century soldier’s encampment, marching, street and field battles and historic house tours.

Earth Day Essex County Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776. 11-4. Free. Celebrate spring with nature crafts, woodland walks, canoeing, kayaking, beekeeping, green vendors and information tables. Refreshments. Advance registration.

26-27

Lambertville’s Shad Fest

Easter Egg Hunt

Intersection Bridge & Union Sts., Lambertville, www.lambertville.org. Parking fee, free shuttle. Commemorates the arrival of shad as they swim up the Delaware River. Juried arts & crafts, live music, children’s activities, riverside shad dinners & shad hauling demonstrations.

On the beach, Seaside Heights, www.seasideheightstourism.com. 1pm. Line up at the beach streets along Ocean Terrace. 0-2 Grant Ave., 3-4 Blaine Ave., 5-6 Sumner Ave., 7-8 Hamilton Ave., 9-10 Franklin Ave., Special needs at Lincoln Ave.

14-16 Spring Crafts at Morristown Morristown Armory, 430 Western Ave. & Washington St., Morristown, 973-4550338. Fri. 4-8, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 11-5. Contemporary work from artists and crafts people.

19 Easter Egg Hunt Historic Allaire Village, Rt.524, Wall Twp., 732-919-3500. 10-4. Children’s activities and contests.

19-20 Bunny Chase Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Rd., Princeton, 609-924-2310. 10-4. Follow treasure hunt clues and find a prize, bunny craft, wagon and pony rides. Ages 2-8.

25-27 Great Lawn by The Promenade, Long Branch, www.usroadsports.com. 8:30-12. Family fun race, marathon and half marathon, family events for all ages. Move for hunger food drive. Post race celebration & festival. Pre-registration required.

Taste of Madison

Rutgers Day Rutgers University Campuses, New Brunswick and Piscataway, rutgersday.rutgers.edu. 10-4, rain or shine. Campus wide event encompasses Zimmerli Family Day, Ag Field Day, New Jersey Folk Festival and the Faraday Lecture plus Scarlet & White football game and Big East softball and lacrosse games. All day activities, performances, tours and exhibits.

Aztec Ocean Resort on the Boardwalk, Asbury Park, www.jerseyshorerelay.org. 7:30-10. Relay marathon, half marathon, USATF certified 26.2 mile marathon. Benefits the Special Olympics of NJ.

Maywood Street Fair & Craft Show

Park Avenue Club, Florham Park, 973-377-7830. Taste of Madison showcases Madison’s restaurants and other businesses under one roof.

New Jersey Folk Festival Douglass College, Rutgers University, George St. & Rutgers Lane, New Brunswick, www.njfolkfest.org. 10-5. Free, rain or shine. Mutliple stages of continuous music, dancing and workshops, juried craft market, children’s activities and ethnic foods.

Cherry Blossom Bloom Festival

Novo Nordisk New Jersey Marathon

12-13

6 West Pleasant Ave., Maywood, www.jcpromotion.info. 10-5. Free. Exhibitors featuring crafts, art, food, children’s activities and entertainment all day.

A P R I L

27 Wild Earth Fest Trailside Nature & Science Center, Coles Ave.& New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3670. 11-5. $4. 6 & under free. Celebrate the Earth. Learn ways to become eco-friendly and increase your awareness of wildlife conservation. Live animal demonstrations, educational displays, family activities, giveaways and vendors.

Party for the Planet Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-731-5800. 11-4. Join zoos from all over the country as they take part in the biggest party on the planet.

Day At The Fair Grounds for Sculpture, 18 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, 609-586-0616. 11-4. Free with park admission. Celebrate our state’s 350th Anniversary with reenactments of Annie Oakley and Lucky Teter, music, entertainment and historic based workshops. See website after March 1 for details. www.groundsforsculpture.org.

25-27

Adorno Father’s Spring Fair

Sports and Memorabillia Show

Downtown Ramsey, www.jcpromotions.info. 10-5. Crafters, new merchandise, kids entertainment, food.

Garden State Exhibit Center, 50 Atrium Dr., Somerset, 732-469-4000. Fri. 1-9, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4. $10. Trading cards, signed memorabilia and merchandise for sale.

26 Healthy Kids Day YMCAs, www.ymca.net. National event at all area Y’s celebrates and promotes health and fitness with activities and demos.

28-30 Country Folk Art’s Craft Show New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, Edison, www.njexpocenter.com. Fri. 5-9. Sat. 10-5. Sun. 10-4. Admission fee admits you all weekend.

216 C A L E N D A R A P R I L - M A Y

M A Y

Cape May Annual Spring Festival

6-10

Throughout Cape May, 800-275-4278. Activities, tours and events throughout Victorian Cape May. Home & garden tours, ghost tours, murder mystery dinners, Tulip Festival, living history demonstrations, more.Visit website for schedule, www.capemaymac.org.

Kiwanis Karnival Fairgrounds, E. Northfield Rd.Livingston Kiwanis Club, Livingston, www.njkiwanis.org. Tues.-Fri.6:30-10:30, Sat. 2-11. Rides, food, fun. Wristbands on sale Sat. Ride all day for one price.

Children’s Specialized Hospital Walk n’ Roll

Lambing Season Valley Shepherd Creamery, 50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley, 908-876-3200. Tours every Sat and Sun 1 and 4. See hundreds of newborn baby lambs.

M A Y

2-4 Visiting Nurse Assoc. Rummage Sale Fairgrounds on Rt. 202, Far Hills, www.visitingnurse.org. 9:30-3:30, Sun. 12:30-3:30. Largest and oldest fundraiser for VNA. You name it, you’ll find it here, a great place to find gently used toys and games.

2-4 Morven in May–Art, Craft & Garden Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., Princeton, www.morven.org. Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-4.

3 Spring Craft Market Historic Allaire Village show field, Rt.524, Wall Twp., 732-919-3500.

3-4 Kite Day Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Rd., Princeton, 609-924-2310. 10-5. Bring your own kite, choose one from the store or make one to test fly in the pasture. Country music, entertainment, wagon rides, country food. Sheep shearing on Sun. Children’s games and activities in the barnyard.

Strawberry Festival Peddler’s Village, Rts. 202 & 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000. 10-6. Enjoy a wide variety of strawberry treats, live entertainment, strawberry pie-eating contests, artisans.

Renaissance Faire Historic Smithville Village Greene, Rt. 9 & E. Moss Mill Rd., Smithville, 609-749-6160. 10-5. Fun for the whole family. Comedy, tragedy, sword fighting, dance, jesters. Local vendors, historical items and crafts.

4 Westfield Spring Fling Street Fair Downtown Westfield, www.westfieldtoday.com. 10-5 rain or shine. Free. Over 300 vendors, juried arts & craft show, music, children’s pavilion, food.

Hoboken Spring Arts & Music Festival Washington St., between Observer Hwy and 7th St., Hoboken, www.hobokennj.org. 115. Free. Over 300 artists and crafters, sculptors and photographers, 3 stages of music, food, special kid’s section on 3rd St.

Clinton’s Pansy Festival

10 Fishing Derby for People with Disabilities Echo Lake Park, Mountainside/Westfield, 908-527-4900. 10-1. Free, pre-registration required. Sponsored by Union County Division of Parks, Recreation & Facilities.

Spirit of the Jerseys State History Fair Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville, www.njhistoryfair.org. 12-6. Free. Living history demonstrations, period games, crafts, tours, food, music. Rain or shine.

Children’s Festival Historic Smithville, Rt. 9 at Moss Mill Rd., Smithville, 609-748-6160. 10-4:30. Family fun with entertainers, Cape May ‘Zoo-2-U’, dance performances, AC Aquarium, sack races.

Born to Be Shorn Cooper Gristmill, 66 Rt. 24/Rt. 513, Chester, 908-879-5463. 11-4. Free. Meet baby lambs and watch hand shearing of sheep. See how fleece is processed and made into garments. Hands-on activities, make crafts to take home.

Spring Flea Market Historic Allaire Village, Rt.524, Show Field, Wall Twp., 732-919-3500. 8-3. Adults $1, under 12 free. Old, new and hand-made items. Raindate May 11.

11 Happy Mother’s Day Enjoy a Mother’s Day ride. Somerset County Lord Stirling Stable, 265 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-766-5955; Union County Watchung Stables, 1160 Summit Lane, Mountainside, 908-789-3665.

15-18 Shrine Circus Mennen Arena, 161 E.Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973992-2860. 3-ring family circus includes lions, tigers, elephants, clowns, high-wire act. Call for show times & ticket info.

Bourbon Street Blues Fest Lebanon Twp. Memorial Park, Bunnvale Rd., Lebanon Twp., www.bourbonstreetbluesfest.com. 11-9. Profits from the festival are donated to community organizations.

17-18 Fine Art and Crafts at Verona Park Verona Park, corner of Pleasant Valley Way & Bloomfield Ave., Verona, www.rose squared.com. 10-5 rain or shine. Over 100 juried fine artists, photographers and fine crafters.

Sandy Hook Ocean Fun Days Island Beach State Park 22 Magruder Rd., Fort Hancock, NJ Sea Grant Consortium, Sandy Hook, www.njseagrant.org. 11-3 both locations. Free. Exhibits, classes, nature tours, children’s activities about our coastal environment.

Jersey Shore Festival Boardwalk and Beach, Seaside Heights, www.jerseyshorefestival.com. Live music on indoor and outdoor stages, local and regional bands, vendors, family activities.

Muses in the Vineyard Four Sisters Winery, 783 County Rt. 519, Belvidere. Sat. 1-7, Sun. from 12pm. A festival of music featuring all women performers, winery tours & tastings. Net proceeds benefit The Epilepsy Foundation of NJ.

Mayfest Historic Smithville, Rt. 9 at Moss Mill Rd., Smithville, 609-748-6160. 10-5. Over 100 juried crafters, international food court, live music, children’s activities, village shops.

18 Highland Park Street Fair Downtown., Highland Park, www.mainstreethp.org. 11-4:30. Free. 200 exhibitors featuring crafts, art, food, children’s activities and entertainment all day.

NJ State Chili & Salsa Championship

Shearing Festival

Beechwood Promenade next to Bank St., parking lot, Summit, 908-277-6100. 11-4. Stroll through Summit and enjoy fish with all it’s trimmings.

19 Kuhn Rd., Layton, 973-948-5200. 12-5. Free. Tour the Peters Valley studios, craft demonstrations and art sales, music, kids activities.

Bernards Township Charter Day Basking Ridge, 908-204-3003. Communitywide event celebrates the charter of the Township with street fair, amusement rides, games and live entertainment.

Family Science Day

Valley Shepherd Creamery, 50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley, 908-876-3200. 10-5. Adults $10, 10 & under $5. Sheep shearing, music, food, artisan demonstrations, pig roast and more.

Peters Valley Open House & Historic Bevans Day

Family Garden Party Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens, 474 Upper Mountain Ave., Upper Montclair, www.essexcherryblossom.com.

Buehler Challenger & Science Center, Bergen Community College campus, Paramus Rd., Paramus, 201-262-0984. 912. Ages 6 & up. $7. Hands-on science fair features “make & take” activities, tours, space science videos, an opportunity to “fly” a one-hour mini-space mission Call to reserve tickets. Washington St. between Hooper Ave & Main St., Toms River, www.chili-nj.com. 11-5. Sample the offerings of more than 50 chili and salsa cooks, live music, food & craft vendors, Tasting kit small fee. children’s entertainment. Rain or shine.

Main St., Clinton, www.clintonguild.com. 12-4. Clinton celebrates Spring with bird house & window decorating contest, horse and carrige rides.

Johnson Park, Piscataway, www.forchildrens.org. 10am, opening ceremonies. Family fun walk benefits Children’s Specialized Hospital. Pre-registration, 908301-5415. Donations accepted.

All-American Fish Fry

Woodbridge Street Fair Downtown Woodbridge, www.woodbridge chamber.com. 11-5. Free. Artists, crafters, vendors, food, music, rides, games, family fun.

CloverCon Ted Blum 4-H Center, 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater, www.4histops.org. 11-5. $8. 4-H Anime & Manga Club artists alley, Manga reading room and much more. Preregister $5. See website for details.

Storytelling Festival Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main St., Clinton, 908-735-4101. 12-4. Adults $9, Snrs. $7, 6-12 $6. Professional storyteller on multiple based themes. Enjoy a story in the one-room school house or by the river’s edge; activities for families.

18 Bernardsville Street Fair Mine Brook Rd., between Claremont Rd. and Mt. Airy Rd., Bernardsville, www.bernardsvilleboro.org. 11-5. Free. Artists, crafters, vendors, food, music, rides, games, family fun.

C A L E N D A R 217 M A Y

18 Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival Tuckerton Seaport, 120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. 11-5. Summer kick-off festival with music, crafters, vendors, food, refreshments, family activities, demonstrations, decoy carvers, boat building and rides.

S U M M E R

May 24-Sept 27 Cowtown Rodeo US40 (8 mi. east of Delaware Memorial Bridge), Woodstown, 856-769-3200. Every Sat. 7:30. Professional rodeo in the tradition of the old west. Bronco riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, girl’s barrel racing.

J U N E

Clifton Street Fair Downtown Clifton, www.downtownclifton. com. 10-5. Crafters, new merchandise, kids entertainment, food.

Outdoor Adventure Expo Turkey Swamp Park, Freehold, 732-8424000 ext. 4240. 11-5. Free. Learn about adventure opportunities in the area, meet vendors, discover clubs, free lectures, demonstrations, nature hikes, children’s fishing derby. Rain or shine.

23-25 Spring Troop Show Watchung Stables, 1160 Summit Lane, Mountainside, 908-789-3665. Spectators welcome. Fri. 4-dark, Sat. 8:30-5, Sun. 8:30-5.

23-26 The Wildwoods International Kite Festival On the Beach at Reo Grande Ave., Wildwood, www.wildwoodsnj.com. Illuminated night kite fly. Sat. & Sun. E. Coast Stunt Kite Championships, exhibits and workshops. Mon., World indoor kite competition at Wildwoods Convention Center.

24-26 Tour of Somerville Cycling Series Downtown Somerville, 908-725-7223 ext. 13. A tradition in bicycle racing since 1940. Three days of competitive cycling featuring 500 plus of the world’s best professional and amateurs starts. Sat. Kids activities on the courthouse lawn, demonstrations, music and entertainment on Memorial Day.

25 Maplewood MayFest Springfield Ave., Maplewood, Beth 973763-6011. 11-5. Music, vendors, rides, food games and live music all day.

27 Memorial Day Parades Local parades, community picnics and ceremonies remember and honor those who have lost their lives serving our country.

29-Jun 1 Greek Festival Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Rd., Westfield, ww.njgreekfest.com. Rides, prizes. Greek food & pastry, shopping, dancing, live music, folk dances. Rain or shine.

30-Jun 1 Crawfish Fest Sussex County Fairgrounds, Rt. 206, Augusta, 973-948-5500. Main gates open 10:30. Show noon-6:30. Camper check-in begins Fri. at 10. Main stage, Cajun, Zydeco, Delta Blues, R & B Funk and Brass on four stages. Pavilion and 12,000 sq. ft. dance hall.

31-Jun 1 Spring Craft Show Municipal Field, Historic Chester, 908-8794814. 10-5. A wide variety of hand made items including traditional craft, fine art and country crafts. Rain or shine.

Cape May Jazz Festival Downtown Cape May, www.capemayjazz.com. Check website for details.

1 Montvale Street Fair & Craft Show Paragon Dr., Montvale, www.montvalechamber.com. 10-5. Free. Exhibitors featuring crafts, art, food, children’s activities and entertainment all day.

South Orange & Maplewood Artists Studio Tour South Orange and Maplewood, www.studiotoursoma.org. 11-5. Visit more than 60 artists in their studios and exhibition spaces throughout the two towns. See website for discount advance ticket locations.

Denville Rotary Street Festival Denville, denvillerotary.org. 11-7 rain or shine. Live music, rides, beer garden, food and more.

Montvale Street Fair

J U N E

8-9 Jersey Shore Fine Arts Festival Ethel Jacobson Field, Barnegat & 5th St., Ship Bottom. Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. 110 fine artists and crafters exhibit their work.

14 Summer Flea Market Historic Allaire Village, Rt.524, Show Field, Wall Twp., 732-919-3500. 8-3. $5 per car. Old, new and hand-made items. Raindate June 15.

14-15 Spring Fine Arts & Crafts at Brookdale Park Brookdale Park, Watchung, Bellevue & Grove Aves., Bloomfield/Montclair, 908874-5247. 10-5. 160 artists display fine art and crafts.

15 Nutley Street Fair & Craft Show Downtown, Nutley, www.jcpromotions.info. 10-5. Free. Exhibitors featuring crafts, art, food, children’s activities and entertainment all day.

Father’s Day Ride Watchung Stables, 1160 Summit Lane, Mountainside, 908-789-3665.

Along Paragon Dr., Montvale, www.jcpromotions.info. 10-5. Vendors, artists, food and kids entertainment.

15-21

Crafts in the Park

Prudential Center, 25 Lafayette St., Newark, 609-896-8000. The largest multi-day event in which 2,500 athletes participate in 8 sports.

Veterans Park, Broadway & Third Ave., Westwood, www.pjspromotions.com. 10-5. Fine art, crafts, prints, country crafts, photography show.

7 Celebrate Edison Day Thomas Edison National Historical Park, Glenmont, Lewellyn Park, West Orange, 973-324-9973. 10-4. Fun, games, take a tour of Thomas & Mina Edison’s home, music, children’s activities. Visit the Friends photo booth for a picture dressed up in period costumes.

Edison Day Festival Main St. between Northfield & Mt. Pleasant Aves., West Orange, 973-325-4109. 11-5. Crafters, artists, vendors, live music, rides, great foods.

Privateers & Pirates Festival Tuckerton Seaport, 120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. 11-5. All things pirates! Pirate history, treasure scavenger hunt, games and a duel, live muic & entertainment.

7-8 Fine Arts & Contemporary Craft Show Peddler’s Village, Rts. 202 & 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000. A juried outdoor exhibition of original artwork, sculptures, paintings and comtemporary crafts. Live entertainment, children’s activities.

Adorno Father’s Arts & Crafts Fair Downtown Ramsey, www.jcpromotions.info. 10-5. Crafters, new merchandise for sale, kids entertainment, food.

8 Pequannock Street Fair Pompton Turnpike & Jackson Ave., Pequannock, www.pequannocktwpchamber.com. 10-5. Free. Exhibitors featuring crafts, art, food, children’s activities and entertainment all day.

Share Network NJ 5K Race 691 Central Ave., New Providence, www.njsharingnetwork.org. 8:30. 5K to benefit Share Network. Family oriented day with music, awards, prizes and activities for all ages.

Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games

21 MuckFest MS New Jersey www.muckruckusms.org/northeast. Overcome obstacles for MS. Exciting obstacle course through mud. Participants required to raise a minimum of $100. Preregister on line. Check website for locations.

21-22 Baymen’s Seafood & Music Festival Tuckerton Seaport, 120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. 11-5. Stroll the Seaport and sample seafood, live entertainment. Rain or shine.

21-22 Clearwater Festival Great Hudson River Revival Croton Point Park, Croton-on-Hudson, www.clearwater.org. Advance ticket discounts. Music, dance, storytelling on 7 stages, waterfront activities, juried crafts and environmental education. Proceeds benefit Clearwater’s environmental work.

22 Summit Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts Beechwood Rd. and Union Place, Summit, www.summitdowntown.org. 10-5. Fine arts & crafts show.

28 Red Wine & Blues Festival Tuckerton Seaport, 120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. 3-8. Live blues music and wine tasting from New Jersey wineries. Food, crafts, boat rides, traditional pie bake off contest.

29 Independence Day Allaire Village Allaire Village, Rt. 524, Wall Twp., 732-9193500. 12-4. Games, music, dancing, 1836 militia drills, reading of the Declaration of Independence. Bring a picnic lunch.

Berkeley Heights Street Fair Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights, www.jcpromotions.info. 10-5. Free admission. Music, arts & crafts, children’s activities.

218

Display Ad Index Ada Budrick Child Care & Learning Center 181 Agathis, Allyson, MD, FAAP 173 Art-4-All 106 Ball Park, The 148 Backyard Kids Camp 145 Bamboo Shoots Preschool 191 Beach Cottage Rental 208 Berkeley Swim School 153 Bilingual Buds 113 Blake Children’s Center, Richard F. 183 Blaustein Early Childhood Center 198 Building Kidz 114 Calderone School of Music 115 Camp Deeny Riback 133 Camp Harmony 130 Camp Invention 131 Camp Merry Heart 161 Camp Riverbend 130 Camp Ruach 129 Center for Contemporary Art 107 Center Line Farm 66 Chef Carl’s Make-A-Pizza Party 102 Child & Teen Success Centers 169 Children’s Academy A Montessori School 201 Children’s Aid & Family Services 168, 169 Circus Place 149 Clark Podiatry 211 Classic Thyme 130 Collinsville Child Care Center 182 Color Me Mine of Summit 91 Concerned Persons for Adoption 168 Congregation B’nai Israel 190 Cottage School, The 198 Cradles to Crayons Learning Center 181, 195 Creative Hands Art Studio 109 Dapple Hill Farm inside front cover Day Camp Sunshine 133 Doremi School 116 Early School of Temple B’nai Abraham 189 Easter Seals New Jersey 161 Eldridge Overton Educational Programs 184 Elefante Music & School for the Performing Arts 116 Far Hills Country Day School 197 Fencing Sport Center 147 Fischer, Joe, Magician 104 FLIP Consignment 207 Frost Valley YMCA 143 Gecko Kids On the Go 110 Gifted & Talented Institute 113 Gill St. Bernard’s Hi Hills Day Camp 124 Gravity Vault 92

Greater Morristown YMCA 145, 154, 181, 182, 183 Great Scott! It’s Magic 103 H20ooohh! Indoor Water Park 91 Harbor Haven Summer Program 161 Hardcore Paintball Arena 92 Hedwig Gruenewald Early Childhood Center 190 Hi Hills Day Camp 124 Hire A Fire Truck 105 Imagine That! 211 Institute of Music for Children 117 International Ivy 108 iTold4 Project 17 Ivy Clubhouse/Ivy Kids 108 JCC Metrowest 133, 140 Joe Fischer, Magician 104 KidsBlvd 174 Kids Guide 35, 47 Kinderprep 203 KinKonnect 169 Krafty Kidz 105 Learning Rx 186 LEARN Language & Tutoring Ctr 114 Lizard Guys, The 102 London Day School, The 193 Madison Area YMCA 155 Marcello’s Italian Restaurant 210 Masterwork School of the Arts 118 McLoughlin Sports 153 Mendelson, Susan, MSW, LSW 170 Mendham Country Day School 196 Meyer’s Dolls, Toys, Hobbies 101 Moderne Academie of Fine Arts 111 Morris County Art Association 107 Morristown-Beard Day Camp 134 Moskowitz, Sandy, Tutor 185 Mountain Creek 81 Murray Hill Chinese School 115 Music To My Ears 103 Music Together 118 My Gym 47 Nazzaro, Paul, Music Studio 117 NCJW Center for Women 15 Newark Academy 124 New Jersey ARCH 168 New Jersey Rock Gym 93 Noah’s Ark Preschools 195 Oak Knoll Summer Adventures 135 Oasis Day Camp 121 Palermo Show Stable 69 Party Maniacs 103 Paul Nazzaro Music Studio 117 Pediatric Center 173 P.E.P. Club 93 Play-by-Play Sports Broadcasting Camp 145 Playwright’s Theatre 122 Plaza Lanes 99 Positive Steps Pediatric Occupational Therapy Center 164

Presbyterian Nursery School & Kindergarten 204 Primrose School inside back cover Purnell School 206 River Internet 207 Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery 104 Royal Baby Safety 11 Salta! Jump into Spanish 138 Scherzo Music Studio 116 Seaton Hackney Stables 67 SEE Camp 135 Shakespeare Theatre of NJ 139 Shawnee Mountain Ski Area 81 Shimon & Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center 99, 129, 198 Small Society Academy 183 Social Skills for Children 170 Speech & Hearing Associates 171 Split Rock Resort 91 Sports Academy 151 Sprout House 192 Stepping Forward Counseling Center 3 St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center 104, 128 Stirling Hotel 210 St. Teresa’s Preschool 202 Suburban Optik 7 Sussman, Steve, PhD 169 TeamHope, Inc. 163 Temple Beth Shalom Preschool 189 Temple Emanu-el Early Childhood Education Program, Westfield 203 Temple Sinai Early Childhood Education Program 203 Thelma K. Reisman Preschool of Beth El 190 Therapy Nook 174 Tickles the Clown 103 Tiny Tots Therapy, Inc. 179 Uncle John’s Traveling Puppet Parties 105 Union County Parks & Community Renewal 159 Union Sports Arena 152 Union Village Nursery School 200 United Soccer Academy 148 US Sports Institute 148 Used Books 19 Vacation Rental 208, 209 Visual Arts Center of New Jersey 109 Watchung Pediatrics 172 West Essex YMCA 140 Westfield Pediatric Dental Group 174 Willow School 191 Wings of Magic 102 Wompy’s World of Musical Play 95 YM-YWHA of Union 137 Zadie’s Nurturing Den back cover

Please support these dedicated family businesses who make the Kids’ Guide possible.