Rivertowns Enterprise Kids! 2015 by The Rivertowns Enterprise

A Special Section of The Rivertowns Enterprise | March 13, 2015

PAGE 2A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS CALENDAR MARCH

APRIL

MAY

6, 7, 12, 24, 30 Westchester Knicks Basketball, Westchester County Center, 995-4050

1-2 Irvington Town Hall Theater, BTC presents Junior Ensemble, A Year with a Frog & Toad, 7 p.m., 591-6602

2&9 Ardsley Library, Lego Club, 693-6636 7

Ardsley Library, Stories in Motion, 693-6636

Daylight Savings Time

12 & 26 Ardsley Library, Kids Krafts Club, 693-6636 13 - 15 Sports Card “March Madness” Show, Westchester County Center, 995-4050 14 Irvington Town Hall Theatre, Hair by Clocktower Players, 7:30 p.m., 591-6602 15 Irvington Town Hall Theatre, Hair by Clocktower Players, 2 p.m., 591-6602 17 Happy Saint Patrick’s Day 17 Irvington Library, Stories & Crafts, 4 to 8-year olds, 591-7840 19 Warner Library, Tarrytown, 6:30 p.m. Laura Doherty, acoustic folk-pop music that’s perfect for families! 631-7734 20 Spring Begins 20 - 22 Operation Prom, Prom Dress Giveaway, Westchester County Center, 995-4050

April Fools Day

1-3 Hudson River Museum, Planetarium Show, 963-4550 2

DF Library, Lego Club, 3:45 - 4:45, 693-6614

3 3

DF Library, egg decorating (bring your own eggs) 1:30, 693-6614 Passover Begins

Happy Easter

9 & 23 Ardsley Library, Kids Krafts, 693-6636 11 Tarrytown Music Hall Theater, Pinkalicious – The Musical, 631-3390 19 New York Reptile Show, Westchester County Center, 995-4050 25 Irvington Town Hall Theatre, The Music Man Jr. by Clocktower Players, 2 and 7 p.m. 26 Irvington Town Hall Theatre, The Music Man Jr. by Clocktower Players, 2 and 7 p.m. 25 - 26 New Victory Theatre, The Mysterious Hat 29 It’s Toddlerific!, Warner Library, Tarrytown, storytime, singing and crafts, 10:15 and 11:15 a.m., 631-7734

Tarrytown Music Hall, Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale, 631-3390

Irvington Town Hall Theatre, BTC present Junior Ensemble, A Year with a Frog & Toad, 3 p.m., 591-6602

8-9 Irvington Town Hall Theatre, Shrek, The Musical by Clocktown Players, 7:30 p.m., 591-6602 10 Happy Mother’s Day 14 DF Library, Toddler Time, 11am, 693-6614 25 Memorial Day

JUNE 4-5 Van Cortland Manor, Hard Work, Hard Work grades 3-7 9 & 23 Van Cortland Manor, Hard Work, Hard Work grades 3-7 11 DF Library, Toddler Time, 11am, 693-6614

21 - 23 Annual Home Show, Westchester County Center, 995-4050 24 Irvington Library, Music Movement, 591-7840 26 - 29 Disney Live, Westchester County Center, 995-4050 9

Spring Celebration and Egg Hunt, Greenburgh Nature Center, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 723-3470

20 Spring Recess 30 - 4/2 Greenburgh Nature Center, Spring Vacation Nature Camp, grades K-3, 723-3470 30 - 31 Hudson River Museum, Planetarium Shows, 963-4550

Houlihan Lawrence and The Rivertowns Enterprise are not responsible for any misprints or errors

Compliments of ...

Trust. Integrity. For Over 100 Years. The Area’s Largest Realtor

113 Main Street Irvington, 591-2700 750 Saw Mill River Road Ardsley, 674-4144 www.houlihanlawrence.com

MARCH 13, 2015

Inside

Prenatal care benefits from medical advances.................14A STYLISH MOM: Diaper duty, bag envy..................................16A HAVING A BABY: Preparing for life-changing event......18A How tummy time became fussy time................................20A BONDING WITH BABY: Move, make music, swim together...................................25A THE POWER OF PLAY: Sensory-motor play is more important than ever!..........28A

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 3A

Bobby Battista

Little kids, BIG vacations.....6A

SAFETY FIRST: Protecting your little loved ones..........10A

Kids! Cover Contest Winners

HOT TOPIC: Vaccination in our nation..................................4A Babysitting a big undertaking for kids, parents......................8A

KIDS!

COVER WINNER

obby being our cover winner is just the icing on the cake for grandparents Carol and Don Battista of Hastings-on-Hudson. Their son Nicky, daughter-in-law Jen and grandchildren Bobby and Emma will be moving back “home” from Colorado this spring. Nicky had moved out West to snowboard. One wife and two kids later, it’s finally time to come back East. Bobby and Emma, who will get to live with their grandparents for a while, will join four cousins in Ardsley and three in Darien, Conn. Carol and Don have had nine grandchildren in six years, including three last year. Carol has a mug with Bobby’s mug on it — this winning photo. “He’s a happy little guy, a joy,” Carol said. “He likes to run around and he’s smart. He’s always smiling.” Bobby loves coming to visit New York, a lways asking to go to the airport to get on a plane to come play with his grandparents and cousins. He is sure to love living here. “When they are all here it’s very active, like a day care center,” Carol said. “We have more toys and equipment now than we did with my three children. It’s just sheer joy.”

PARENT’S GUIDE: How to’s & what’s new .................... 30A -37A

Grace Davis

Cover Contest Kids...12A, 24A, 34A, 36A

DIVISION ONE WINNER

race Davis is just one of the joys in the life of Dolores Nehrbauer of Hastings-on-Hudson. The 93-year-old has three daughters, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Choosing which photo of Gracie, who lives in White Plains, was tough. “Every photo I see I like better,” Dolores said. “I wasn’t quite sure which one I liked the best.” She definitely chose a great one of Gracie, whom she called “the tiniest little thing.” But don’t be deceived, this one is a mischievous tomboy, always getting into everything. “She enjoys playing with all the kids who are bigger and older,” Dolores said. “She is very friendly and she talks in her baby speech.” Dolores lives in a house that has many toys for the kids, but it’s a house that wasn’t around when she moved to Hastings when she was 5 years old. It’s been a long and wonderful life here, one that has been enhanced by three more generations of family.

2015 Rivertowns Enterprise

DAY CAMP GUIDE PAGES 39A-45A

Kids! A special section of

The Rivertowns Enterprise 95 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 478-2787 www.rivertownsenterprise.net

PUBLISHER................... Deborah G. White SECTION EDITOR...................... Todd Sliss ART DIRECTOR...............Ann Marie Rezen ADVERTISING DESIGN....Suzanne Brown ADVERTISING SALES......Marilyn Petrosa, Thomas O’Halloran, Barbara Yeaker, and Francesca Lynch ©2015 W.H. WHITE PUBLICATIONS, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART IS FORBIDDEN WITHOUT THE PUBLISHER’S WRITTEN PERMISSION.

Anthony Martin Jr. DIVISION TWO WINNER

his winning photo was taken and selected by mom Janet of Hastings-on-Hudson. Dad Anthony Sr. wanted to submit something he took with his phone. We’re going to have to side with Mom on this one! Cheery kindergartner Anthony Jr. is bright and cheery all the time — no matter if he wakes up at 6:30 or 8:30 — and is always on the move. He loves to play soccer and basketball, and dancing is another favorite activity. He has an 11-year-old sister, Paige, who also likes to dance and is always playing music. Janet said they get along “most of the time. When they’re dancing, they definitely do.” Anthony Jr. loves cars and planes and he goes back and forth between wanting to be a race car driver and a pilot. Mom said right now pilot is winning, but she knows that could change at any moment. “He’s very funny, very witty and he’s very active,” Mom said. “He’s sunny, happy, bright and cheery.” She added, “People say that he looks like his mom.”

PAGE 4A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

HOT TOPIC: Vaccination in our nation

BY ANTHONY R. MANCINI

n the wake of the measles outbreak that cropped up at the beginning of this year in the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif., attention has been focused on people who choose not to vaccinate their children, as the cause of the outbreak has been attributed to unvaccinated kids attending the theme park. Inoculating children against preventable diseases is recommended almost across the board by pediatricians, as links between vaccines and dangerous side effects have not been conclusively established. Dr. Peter Richel, the chief of pediatrics at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, is a staunch proponent of childhood inoculation for vaccines that are both required by New York State to attend public school and those that are not required. The doctor said on Feb. 25 that he rarely encounters people who outright refuse to vaccinate their children. He said a pediatrician’s intimate relationship with a family is so deep that he and other doctors as a policy would not accept unvaccinated children as patients, due to the heightened potential for harm. “Pediatricians in general become a part of a family. They lead and guide and teach and examine and monitor ongoing growth and development of the children in a family, from really birth. Most of us go at least through the end of high school and some of us go for four years after completing high school,” Richel said. “With that said, we love them dearly and want to care for them, but I won’t sleep well at night if I’m not immunizing and protecting them from what I know are terrible infections and in fact even life-threatening diseases. Most pediatricians, especially in our community, would actually not accept a family if they said we are not vaccinating. It’s with great regret, but that is that.” Measles was previously considered eliminated within the United States in 2000, but the disease has managed to propagate, especially in 2014, where a number of outbreaks resulted in hundreds of cases. Measles is one of the diseases contained within the MMR vaccine which protects against

measles, mumps and rubella. This vaccine is required for children to attend public school in New York. Richel said that the MMR vaccine is one of the most commonly refused vaccines, as in 1998, former researcher Andrew Wakefield published a discredited claim in the medical journal The Lancet, saying that a link exists between the MMR vaccine and autism, eventually creating a health scare. The Lancet retracted Mr. Wakefield’s study, citing ethical concerns and he was effectively stripped of his ability to practice medicine. Richel finds that parents’ refusal of the MMR vaccine stems from either Wakefield’s fraudulent study, or as an explanation as to why someone they know might have autism. “When there’s refusal, it usually is a couple of things. It is perhaps that they’re still hanging on to that proposed link by Dr. Wakefield in England, which has totally

Hudson Family Dental Jacqueline Paramo, DDS

5 South Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY (at hastings border)

914-478-4448 • email: drparamo@optonline.net

been refuted, but they’re still hanging onto that and just aren’t buying the facts,” he said. “If they’re sensitive because of a family member or friend with autism who may or may not be relating the diagnosis to within a year or something with the MMR, I do get that and I’m very sensitive to that. It’s a devastating thing. We see more and more of it these days, but again in my heart, my soul and my mind, I just cannot relate it to vaccinations, even though I’m very open enough to know to say that every child and every person is unique.” Although an adverse reaction to a vaccine, such as an allergy, is possible, Richel does not link autism with any vaccine, especially since he has seen cases of autism in unvaccinated children. “Those things happen in children and families who have never been vaccinated,” he said. “I have a couple of families, by the way, in whom there are several members of

the family with special needs who, after the first child, didn’t vaccinate or really delayed them and they still had autism.” When Wakefield’s claims were still being taken seriously by the medical community, Richel said he and his contemporaries would use separate measles, mumps and rubella inoculations on patients as a safety measure. The medical community eventually rejected Wakefield’s claims though, and the separate vaccines are no longer manufactured, leaving the MMR the only way to vaccinate against measles, mumps and rubella. While people who deny vaccinations outright are rare, according to Richel, what is more common is parents opting to space out vaccines that can be administered all at once to a couple of weeks. He said parents would request this when they CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

MARCH 13, 2015 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

feel their infant cannot handle several vaccinations at once. For instance, during an infant’s 2-month-old doctor’s visit, Richel normally administers eight vaccines. They include the DTaP, which itself is comprised of inoculations to diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis; hib, or haemophilus influenzae; polio; pneumococcal strep; hepatitis B; and rotavirus. Because these vaccines are combined, Dr. Richel said an infant would only undergo three injections that would take care of everything except rotavirus, which is an orally administered vaccine. Of these eight vaccines, rotavirus is the only one not required in order to attend public school in New York. Richel said there is no evidence to suggest receiving eight vaccinations in a single doctor’s visit is harmful, thought when parents ask to have them spaced out, he complies. “It is not uncommon today to have new or young parents ask for separation or spacing of the vaccines,” he said. “They think that it’s too much of a load on the immune system when they hear that many.” The doctor said what is not OK is to wait a prolonged period of time to administer an essential vaccine to a child. He said he occasionally hears arguments from parents who do not want to vaccinate until it is time for the child to attend school. Richel said this is not a good practice because many of these diseases are present in the environment. He said children should not be sheltered from any diseases either. “They have to live,” Richel said. “They have to take them to see the Disney movie.

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 5A

You’ve got to go to the mall. We have to go to the grocery store, so we’re going to have droplets in the air, so it’s kind of naive of us to think that they would be protected that way.” Some people are concerned about the past presence of thimerosal, an antiseptic and antifungal preservative that used to be found in multidose vaccines, Richel said. Thimerosal contains mercury, which is poisonous to humans and was pulled from most applications as a safety precaution. Although there has been no medical study establishing thimerosal as a cause of autism, there is a fear in some areas of the community. Richel only uses preservative-free, singledose vaccines when treating patients. He said he is only familiar with one vaccine still using thimerosal, a version of a multiuse flu vaccine, and he does not use this variety. He said in this particular vaccine, use of thimerosal is so minute it should not pose a problem. The doctor said it is a good practice to continue to receive boosters of the TDaP vaccine into adulthood when necessary, which is similar to the DTaP in combining tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, to protect other adults and children alike. He said it is important for young adults to remember to continue to visit a doctor after finishing seeing a pediatrician. “Many of you young folks are healthy and don’t always remember that when you leave us as pediatricians,” he said. “When you’re healthy, you get out of college, you CONTINUED ON PAGE 38A

It takes a village to raise a child IT TAKES DAY CARE OF OUR QUALITY TO HELP RAISE ONE AS PRECIOUS AS YOURS

To us looking after your children during the day isn’t just a job, it’s a vocation. We have the educational background, experience and dedication to see to it that your child is engaged and happy in our care!

•Open 12 Months •Aﬀordable Rates •Convenient HOURS: 7:15AM-6:00PM Monday thru Friday

Join us at our OPEN HOUSE Friday, March 20th, 4pm - 6pm

We Make Learning Fun!

Our experienced and dedicated staff use a child-centered curriculum and provide many learning experiences through a combination dramatic play, music and movement, creative arts, storytelling trips, indoor and outdoor activities and more.

For further information, or to schedule a visit please call Deborah Finley-Troup 914-693-0600 ext. 1213

Infant Room: (Wait list only)

$395/wk*

Preschool Room: $334/wk* *Rates subject to change

1 Echo Hills Dobbs Ferry NY 10522

Toddler Room: $360/wk*

PAGE 6A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Taking little kids on BIG vacations BY MARY LEGRAND

raveling with little kids — infants, toddlers and preschoolers — is part of most families’ lives at some point or another. Gone are the times when young children either stayed home when their parents went on vacation or just took car trips to Grandma and Grandpa’s house out of state, relegating the small fry to the back seat of the station wagon. These days, families are jaunting all around the country and around the world with their youngsters. While the Internet has made some aspects of travel easier, trained professionals remain at the forefront of ensuring that family or intergenerational vacations hit all the high notes and go off without a hitch. Jill Rosenberg, CTC, DS, manager of group and executive travel services at AAA Northeast in Garden City — affiliated with AAA Travel Agency on Brook Street in Scarsdale — has been working with clients, including families, for many years from the beginning phases of planning a vacation through its completion. “The travel needs of families range widely, running the gamut from adventuresome parents who might be taking their children to Thailand to those who are more comfortable going to Disney World or Hershey Park,” Rosenberg said. She added, “Your children’s ages will change your travel needs and will also change where you are going to bring them when you get there. It’s not just where in the world you want to go, but also the physical and age limitations of the child or children.” Rosenberg’s suggestion to consult a travel professional is especially pertinent when planning an overseas trip. “That way you have someone who knows the rules and regulations and ins and outs of each lo-

cation, including passport, inoculation and paperwork needs, if appropriate,” she said. “There’s a huge bank of information needed; even things that apply to adults are going to apply to children. Take immunizations, for example. There are certain countries you may not want to take a child who hasn’t been completely immunized.” (Right now that list of countries includes parts of the United States.) Traveling with young children is not without challenges, including how to safely transport kids in airplanes and rental cars. “Do you want to carry your baby on your lap in the plane or do you want to purchase a plane seat so the child can sit in his or her own car seat?” Rosenberg said. “You need to find out from the airline — and each company has different regulations — whether your child’s car seat is compatible with the aircraft.”

Kavita Kohli, DDS

Talking with a travel professional will in most cases streamline decision-making, according to Rosenberg, who added that doing a lot of work ahead of one’s arrival at a hotel is an added plus as well. “I just had a year-old baby going on an intergenerational Christmas cruise, and we worked with the cruise line to make sure the baby had a crib and there was a refrigerator in the room for the baby’s milk,” Rosenberg said. “Life is so much easier when all those decisions are made ahead of time instead of after you’ve arrived.” Intergenerational trips are gaining in popularity. “There was one I handled recently that was for the parents’ 50th anniversary,” Rosenberg said. “The vacation was great because it appealed to all ages, and the kids, who ranged from 2 to 19, all had a blast. The cruise line had great day care, the

little ones were in a toddler program and there was a teen nightclub. No one got bored.” Rosenberg said AAA travel professionals “try to find kid-friendly hotels and destinations, and some of the advice we give parents, especially those traveling with children for the first time, is to have care packages in the car or airplane — extra water and snacks, even little games to make the trip so much easier. If traveling by car, don’t try to make a 12-hour trip in 12 hours — plan little rest stops, let the kids run around and get a little tired out so maybe they’ll sleep for a couple of hours once you get back on the road.” Parents magazine is known for its handy tips on all kinds of subjects and, not surprisingly, there’s a lot of practical advice to be found on its website, parents.com. Like the suggestions Rosenberg offered, the writers Kate Kelly, Jessica Hartshorn and Amy Gorin from American Baby have offered their expertise on parents.com. They suggest that parents pack one small bag for the day of the trip and then pack everything else in a bigger bag. That way, they note, parents don’t have to rummage around looking for just a few items among many other things in giant suitcases. Making one’s way through airport security is enough of a nightmare for adults who are traveling by themselves. Taking a family with young children through can be daunting. “In preparation, we suggest you all wear slide-on shoes and little to no jewelry,” the American Baby writers suggest on parents.com. “To limit your juggling, try to use one big sack as your carry-on rather than a purse plus a diaper bag plus a bag.” “Families save up for vacation all year, and that week should be special and wonderful,” Rosenberg said.

YOUR COMMUNITY ART SCHOOL CENTRALLY LOCATED IN WHITE PLAINS

BOARD CER TIFIED PEDIATRIC DENTIST

Summer Art Classes for Kids & Adults Portfolio Development for Teens Art Institute for Teens Debate and Public Speaking for Kids REGISTRATION BEGINS: APRIL 4

495 Central Park Avenue, Suite 208 ~ Scarsdale, NY 10583 www.rivertownspediatricdentistry.com ~ 914-725-9620

Summer Art Classes for Adults and Children Call for information: 914-606-7500 www.sunywcc.edu/arts email: arts@sunywcc.edu

WESTCHESTER COMMUNIT Y C O L L E G E

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 7A

Family vacation on a budget Spring break is coming and after all the frost, wind and chill of the winter, you’ve earned some time to relax. So why not treat yourself to a little vacation? If you don’t have a lot of extra money to spend and you’re worried about your finances holding you back, there are ways to take an enjoyable spring vacation without blowing your budget. The five tips below can help you make the most of your spring vacation without breaking the bank. * Make sure your car is ready to go. Road trips make for a more affordable spring break than air travel, and the cities you visit along the way are half the fun. Make sure your car is ready for the trip by changing the oil, checking the tire pressure and making sure the windshield washer and power steering fluids are filled appropriately. You can handle these tasks yourself or take your vehicle to your local mechanic for a tune-up. * Travel with a plan. Unfortunately, your vacation will last only so long, so make the most of the time you have. Travel sites like Dream Plan Go and Trip Advisor offer great resources to help you pick a spring-break destination and learn about the unique features of a given place that go unnoticed by most visitors. You can also control expenses by avoiding locations that will be too costly when you arrive. * Make communication easy. Looking for an affordable way to stay in touch during your trip? TracFone provides you with affordable cellphones and no contract plans with nationwide coverage on the largest and most dependable networks so that you can stay connected wherever you go. And TracFone is the only nocontract service provider with Unlimited Carryover that never expires. That means you’ll

keep all of your unused minutes, texts and data as long as your plan is active and in use. * Go outdoors. If you’re looking for an affordable spring vacation idea, getting back to nature can make for a memorable vacation. Camping at a national park is more cost efficient than staying in a hotel, plus you can fill your days with hiking, sightseeing and other inexpensive activities. Some people may not be too excited about vacationing in the wild, but after months cooped up indoors, nothing beats fresh air and the chance to gaze up at the stars without seeing your own breath. * Expand your hotel horizons. Want to hit a popular destination but can’t afford the lodgings? Expand your radius a little. Inexpensive hotel rooms can be found more easily in the cities that border major tourist destinations. If you have your car with you, the room savings will make up for the extra gas you’ll need. Spring-vacation season is here and you’ve earned a break, so why not take one? By applying the tips above, you’ll be able to enjoy the relaxing vacation you deserve and ensure your budget survives until you return to work once again. —Brandpoint

AvAilAble weekly or for the entire summer!

Summer Camp! • individualized instruction • weekly field trips

low student to teacher ratio. All students are grouped by age (ages 4 1/2–13 years), separate groups for boys & girls. no experience necessary in any activities; we specialize in teaching beginners!

CAmp DAtes

monday, June 29–friday, August 21

CAmp hours

full Day: 9am–3pm

extended hours and half-Day Camp Available. 10% super early bird discount if enrolled by 3/31/15 5% early bird discount if enrolled by 4/30/15

visit GymCats.net for more details!

AUTISM: Result-Oriented Therapy™ Give Your Child the Gift of Success™

Through intense treatment, you will see significant improvement Parent Training Included Call for a free consultation

Robert J. Bernstein Educational Services, LLC Director, Autism Speech

914.330.3393 GymCats is located at Equalize Fitness • equalizefitness.com gymcats.net • 914-965-7676 • One Odell Plaza • Yonkers, NY 10701 (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy • Hastings/Yonkers Border)

email:rjb@autismspeech.com • www.autismspeech.com

PAGE 8A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Babysitting a big undertaking for kids, parents

BY EVE MARX

f you are among the very fortunate parents who have never needed to hire a babysitter, you are in a minority. Unless you’re lucky enough to have relatives living close by who are available and crave more time with your kids, chances are one day, one night, even one morning or afternoon, you will be hiring a babysitter. What do you need to know before inviting this person into your house? How old should your sitter be? How do you find a good one? And last but not least, what should be your expectations about the experience? Kate Silverstein Galligan, a Katonah mom, said that with four kids, not only has she hired her share of babysitters, but a few of her children are old enough to be hired as babysitters. “I think 11 is a good age to be a mother’s helper with a parent at home,” Galligan said. “I think 12 is old enough for quick, daytime sitting, like when the mom is running errands or going to the gym. I think 13 is an appropriate age for babysitters who are needed for longer periods of time, but not for long stretches of time or any very late nights yet. I think 14 years old and older is fine for evening sitting. “My eldest took the babysitting course, but he never did much sitting, except for people’s pets. My middle two children did not take the course, but babysit all the time. Go figure.”

Galligan said when she has had occasions to hire a teen sitter, she always goes by word of mouth. It’s Galligan’s seasoned opinion that the desired age of the babysitter depends a lot on the ages of the children to be babysat. “For infants and very young kids, I’d be more likely to hire a college student or an older woman,” she said. “But for

Temple Beth Shalom Early Childhood Center We’ll help your child grow.

Extraordinary Nursery School Programs for 2s, 3s, 4s Registration for 2015-16 now open We welcome Temple members and non-members to join us for all our early childhood activities.

weekly toddler "U2" classes family shabbat + music programs special holiday programs + family celebrations

visit us online to learn more about all our programs for young families tbshastings.com | facebook.com/tbshastings contact us at info@tbshastings.org or (914) 478-3833

energetic elementary school kids, I think teens are the best!” Mary Gaza has three children, a 13-yearold boy, an 11- and 8-year-old girls. She is one of the lucky moms who has used the same babysitter for 13 years. “I work from home,” Gaza said. “I do have family in the area, but my parents travel often so I’ve

never relied on them for babysitting.” Gaza’s regular babysitter is a 55-yearold woman who has been with the family since her eldest child’s earliest months. “If my husband and I go out on a weekend, I do hire outside babysitters,” Gaza said, noting that her children look forward to having the occasional teen weekend babysitter: “My kids love it. They get one-on-one attention and all the teenagers know how to play Wii and Xbox.” As her children have gotten older, Gaza, who is a compliance consultant, said her weekend babysitters are getting younger. “I now have a sophomore sitting for me,” she said. “The babysitter is really there to keep the peace.” When she’s looking for a babysitter, Gaza goes with someone she knows or sort of knows. “Every one of our sitters has some connection to our family,” Gaza said. “Some of them are older siblings of my children’s classmates. I have to know the parents.” Gaza said she’s never inquired if her sitters have taken a specific babysitter course, a CPR course or other child-minding training — which has become very common and readily available throughout the county — but said that her own 11-yearold daughter is taking a privately operated babysitting course that includes CPR training and what to do in a major emergency, like choking or trips and falls, and what to CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

MARCH 13, 2015 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

do if a stranger comes to the door. She described her daughter as being “very gung-ho about it.” Having a network of babysitters is important, as is treating sitters well, Gaza said. “You have to use them regularly because if you don’t, someone else will, she said, and she was adamant about what to pay them: “You have to pay them well.” She also makes sure to have plenty of snacks for the babysitter available in the house, everything from healthy food to junk. “I want them to be happy to come here,” Gaza said. Even so, it’s tricky to book teens. “They’re all so busy with extracurriculars, I might have to make four phone calls before I find one who is available,” Gaza said. Amy Kaprelian has two elementary school-aged children. “I’ve used social networking groups to find sitters, but overall I still prefer word of mouth,” Kaprelian said. “Since my kids are still quite small, I definitely look for someone who is mature, but can also engage with them.” Kaprelian says she selects sitters based on personality and maturity levels rather than actual age. “Some younger teens just ‘have it,’” she said. “And my kids are the first ones to pick up on a Pied Piper quality in a sitter.” She advised parents who are just now thinking about hiring sitters that when they find one they like, “Do everything you can to hold on to them.” As for expectations, Gaza was clear: “Babysitters are there to amuse your kids. They’re not there to load the dishwasher.

KIDS!

They’re there to play Xbox and Wii.” She said she expects and pays for her adult babysitter during the week to do more momtype functions, such as being there for the kids when they get home from school, emptying the backpacks, providing a snack and getting them ready for swim lessons. Galligan said when her own kids are going out on a babysitting job, she gives them reminders. “I remind them to make sure they know how to contact the parents in the event of an emergency, but I also remind them of basic babysitting etiquette,” she said. “I remind them that the language they use around the kids is not the language they use around their friends; there’s nothing worse than having a child tell his parents that the choice new word he just learned he picked up from the babysitter. I do encourage them to clean up; nothing is better for parents than coming home to a house with a clean sink and the toys picked up. And I suggest they not eat all the ‘good’ food in the house. A little is fine, but if parents are coming home from a party expecting to finish off the Chunky Monkey in the freezer, it shouldn’t all be gone when they get back.” As for parental etiquette, Galligan said, “I don’t know if parents realize that most kids know down to the minute how long they have been sitting and exactly how much they should get paid! They also love the parents who round up, rather than pay to the exact amount. Of course, an hourly rate is an hourly rate, and our kids are lucky to be able to earn so much at such a young age, but still, they do get pretty psyched over those extra few dollars. Just saying.”

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 9A

In this new digital world, kids are using phones or tablets more often than not. Which means an Annual Eye Exam is more important than ever to make sure their vision is

CLEAR. Time to call Bauer Optical and schedule your Child’s Eye Exam with Dr. Jennifer Sedaghati On Fridays or Saturdays.

WITH THIS COUPON

Buy One New Pair of Frames and Lenses at Regular Price, Get the Second Pair 50% OFF. 2nd Pair must be of equal or lessor value. Cannot be combined with any insurance plans or any other lens offer. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Must be two pairs for same customer. Limit one coupon per customer. Offer expires April 4, 2015

As always “Our Focus is on YOU.”

Bauer Optical Eye Care

45 Main Street, Hastings-On-Hudson, N.Y. 10706 478-0550 Check us out on the web: www.baueroptical.com

~ Ed Klotz, Optician ~

lowers by Carole Distinctive designs with a personal touch

and

NV Me Gifts Party Favors and Gift Wrapping Services Communions • Confirmations • Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Bridal Showers Birthday Parties • Graduations and more! Flowers By Carole and NV Me Gifts will provide the flowers, balloons, favors and more! One stop shopping! Have your favors – Not sure what to do with them? We will beautifully wrap them and have them ready to go! Stop in and see our display.

Gillian Gabie ~ Flowers By Carole ~ 693-4333 email: flowersbycaroleny@gmail ~ www.flowersbycaroleny.com Lorraine Martin ~ NV Me Gifts ~ 557-1236 ~ email: NVMeGifts@gmail.com 79 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.

PAGE 10A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Safety first

Protecting your little loved ones BY VALERIE ABRAHAMS

et’s face it, when many of today’s parents think back on things we did when we were kids, we cringe at the thought of our own kids doing some of those things. My brother and I played a game called deer-hunter, shooting air rifles at our friends hiding among apple trees in the orchard across the road from our farmhouse. Sometimes we threw rotten apples at passing cars. Far from our parents’ sight, we biked back roads or wandered through fields and streams. We swam in a remote pond with no floatation devices. One summer, on an adventure to Blackhand Gorge, my brother chipped two teeth when he jumped from the sandstone cliffs into the shallow river below. Broken teeth and stitches were cool back then; the bigger the scar the better. But we don’t want our kids to be as stupid as we were. For today’s parents, safety is paramount at home and school, in the car and on the bike, or during sports and playtime.

Numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Protection show that each year, nearly 9 million children ages newborn to 19 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries; poison control centers handle more than 1 million calls each year for children under 5; and injuries are the leading cause of death in children ages 19 and younger. But most of these injuries can be prevented. To that end, the National Institutes of Health recommends that parents start with the basics: • Install the right child safety seat in your car. • Teach children how to cross the street safely. • Make sure they wear the right gear and equipment for sports. • Install and test smoke alarms. • Store medicines, cleaners and other dangerous substances in locked cabinets. • Baby-proof your home. • Don’t leave small children unattended. Today’s parents can also rely on devices they put into book bags or wearable gear such as key fobs or bracelets, as well as apps and services, to monitor their kids’ where-

Dobbs Ferry Public Library

55 Main Street Dobbs Ferry, New York 10522 914-693-6614 www.dobbsferrylibrary.org

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS NURSERY RHYME TIME Ages 1 & 2

Thursdays 11:00 a.m. April 2, May 7, June 4

abouts and well-being. But ultimately it’s up to parents to teach kids to take responsibility for their own safety and their own actions, according to Ju’Riese Colon, executive director of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. That’s especially true for Internet safety, a constant concern among families today.

As soon as kids get a Kindle or an iPad, parents should talk to their children about potential risks to privacy, personal safety and being good digital citizens. Kids are getting and using them at earlier and earlier ages.“Internet safety is just like anything CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

Rivertowns Dental Don’t Forget Your Children’s

Pre-Camp Dental Check-Ups

Call today for an appointment!

TODDLER TIME Age 2

Thursdays 11:00 a.m. April 9, 16, 23, 30 . May 14, 21, 28 . June 11, 18, 25

STORY TIME Ages 3 - 5

Mondays

11:00 a.m.

Services Include:

General Dentistry ~ Root Canal Therapy Cosmetic Dentistry Including:

Bonding, Veneers Crowns and Bridges Invisalign ~ Teeth Whitening Hours by appointment

EGG DECORATING

Friday, April 3, 2015 . 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. All ages welcome. Bring your own eggs to dye and decorate. Supplies provided by the Friends of the Library

LEGO CLUB

Kindergarten and up 3:45 - 4:45 p.m. April 2, May 7, June 4

Dr. Samar Tannous

34 High Street, Hastings-On-Hudson, N.Y. 10706 (corner of High and Rose)

(914) 214-8228 Dr. Tannous has practiced dentistry for over 15 years. She earned her DDS and a diploma in Pediatric and Community Dentistry in 1994. Known for her high quality and good caring, Dr. Tannous shares her extensive experience and continues her dental education to solve most of today’s dental problems and concerns. She is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy Of Facial Cosmetics.

MARCH 13, 2015 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

else when you are trying to keep children safe,” Colon said. “It’s a conversation that has to happen early and often. Tell them to be aware when posting images on social media because those images will follow your children around well into adulthood.” Adults also need to model good behavior: “What we expect our child to do online, we should try to do ourselves,” she said. “For example, do not post travel plans and vacation photos or details that indicate where we are.” With the technology in the palm of their hands and the Internet a focus of their daily lives, kids are often more tech saavy than their parents. “It’s important for parents to keep up,” Colon said. “Find out what sites your kids are on and continue the dialogue. Friend or follow them on whatever site they are posting. Find out if their online friends are friends in real life.” This will give parents insight into their kids’ online lives as well as provide “teachable moments” when parents can explain acceptable online behavior. “Make sure kids are aware and teach them a good rule of thumb: ‘If you wouldn’t say something to someone to their face, don’t say it online,’” Colon said. Remind them that although the Internet gives anonymity, still, there’s a real person on the other end to “treat as you would want to be treated yourself; think before you post.” Colon also recommended that parents get to know each product and how to manage the settings to protect children. “Tech companies and social media sites have done

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 11A

a fairly good job of incorporating privacy and safety features,” Colon noted. “Go through those resources together” to help make the online experience more rewarding and less likely to raise concerns. Teachers have become an avenue for introducing Internet safety as many schools are creating policies to deal with the repercussions of cyberbullying or inappropriate digital behaviors. An online resource that provides conversation starters for all ages, from toddler to teen, is Netsmartz.org. It features plenty of animation to address Internet safety in a fun and nonthreatening way. The material is frequently updated to keep childern engaged while they learn important lessons about Internet safety and digital citizenship, cyberbullying and sexting. It presents many scenarios to help kids make smarter decisions, and the teens’ page shows how careless Internet use can result in dangerous or damaging experiences. Netsmartz also has resources to help parents identify when children are being bullied or are bullying. There is a sample Internet safety pledge on the website for parents and kids to use in putting together a promise to be smarter online and to define what’s appropriate and what’s not for every gadget or website. Other sites for safety tips at home or online are: healthychildren.org; safetynet. aap.org; safekids.org/safetytips; and WiredSafety.com. The CDC also provides information on protecting children from injuries through its Protect the Ones You Love initiative. Visit cdc.gov/safechild.

流 DOBBS FERRY KARATE 練師殿Reserve your spot in our RYU RENSHI-DAN HOMBU DOJO —Established in 1977—

One of Westchester’s Original Karate schools, we have classes for kids, teens, and adults. Group and Private lessons available, as well as monthly self-defense workshops.

Ask about our new Little Ninja’s classes for ages 3-4

Stop in anytime for a FREE trial class! Summer Program today!

96 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 • 914-693-3707 • www.dobbsferrykarate.com

PAGE 12A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

Joseph Spana

Alice DeVita Aranda

Natalie Spana

MARCH 13, 2015

Emma Battista

Cute Kids!

Olivia Rose Cooper

Juliet Lee Stanton

KIDS!

Willow Katharine Denny

Don Anthony Troy-DiLorenzo

Kenneth Girven

Andrew Stanton

Charlie Corbett

Fynn Werges

CALL US FOR SUMMER FUN PROGRAM DETAILS

Two Open Houses Wednesday, March 18th 9:30am - 2:30pm and

Tuesday, April 14th 9:30am - 2:30pm All Locations Come learn from our experienced Montessori teachers who provide an individualized, hands on learning environment. We offer a variety of programs from toddler through kindergarten! Extended hours are available for working parents.

www.alcottschool.org Scarsdale

27 Crane Road (914) 472-4404

Dobbs Ferry 535 Broadway (914) 693-4443

Scarsdale

46 Fox Meadow Road (914) 595-7551

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Drive safely with your newborn by following these tips Babies change everything. Their arrival means that new parents need to become educated - quickly - on cribs, strollers and most importantly, child-safety seats and all their rules. And as federal recommendations on car seats continue to evolve, parents have one more thing to stay on top of. The family car safety experts at Cars.com, in partnership with Toluna QuickSurveys, recently conducted a poll that asked parents what they worried about most when bringing a newborn home from the hospital. Results revealed that 93 percent of new parents listed the fear of other drivers on the road as a top concern when driving with a newborn. “Every new parent wants to cover the car in protective bubble wrap when driving with their baby. I know my husband and I did,” says Cars.com editor and expert mom Jennifer Newman. “That isn’t realistic, but there are a few things you can take control of that will help ease your anxiety when driving with your newborn.” Instead of bubble wrap, Newman suggests: * Car seat check: Make sure a certified child passenger safety technician inspects your car seat installation before the baby arrives. * Practice safe driving: It’s going to be tough, especially if your newborn starts wailing, but remember to keep your eyes on the road. If you can’t stop yourself from turning around to check on the baby, pull over and then make sure everything is OK with your wee one. * Keep the baby in the car seat: If one par-

ent rides in the backseat with the baby, remember that it is never OK to remove the child from a car seat while someone is driving. The safest place for a baby - even one that’s screaming - is in a rear-facing car seat when the car is moving. * Keep yo ur car properly maintained: Take your car in for regular, scheduled maintenance to ensure everything is in working order and all fluids are topped. Keeping a safe car can create a safer ride for your little one. These steps allow parents to focus on the road and should lessen some of their concerns about their child’s safety in the car. In addition, Newman also suggests parents skip using items such as a baby mirror in the car. Mirrors and other items like toys that hang from a car seat’s handle can become dangerous projectiles in a crash and harm your child or you. For more information, visit Cars.com to learn more tips on child driving safety. — Brandpoint

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 13A

We’re a Family Friendly Children’s Center We encourage you to visit. Please call to make an appointment.

• 18-month to 5-year old children • Certified, experienced staff • Large, enclosed playgrounds • Nutritional snacks, hot lunches • 7:15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - all year long • Developmental program includes: whole language, art, music, science, nature • Learn more about us by visiting http://www.crebeg.com

Creative Beginnings Children’s Center

112 W. Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale, NY 10530

A D ay C a m As Comple p t As Sleep- e A way !

(914) 428-1200

PAGE 14A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Prenatal care benefits from medical advances

BY TODD SLISS

mprovements and breakthroughs in science and technology have made prenatal care a much less stressful and hazardous time in the life of soon-tobe parents. Whether it’s physically or mentally, parents can breathe a little easier when it comes to preparing themselves for a months-long process that hopefully sees them delivering and caring for a healthy, happy baby. “Prenatal care is a very important part of pregnancy,” said Dr. Navid Mootabar, chairman of the department of gynecology and obstetrics at Northern Westchester Hospital of Mount Kisco. “From my standpoint it’s very satisfying to take care of somebody for nine months, guide them through a healthy pregnancy and be able to deliver a healthy baby into a happy environment. Unfortunately sometimes problems do arise during a pregnancy and we address them and take care of them as best as possible.” For Dr. Nabil Khoury, an obstetriciangynecologist at White Plains Hospital Center, lifestyle planning is an important part of that first pregnancy visit to the doctor. “After that first visit, the patient is reassured and taught about dietary habits, exercise and avoidance of harmful substances and foods,” Khoury said. “The patient is started on a vitamin supplementation, trying to avoid the occurrence of genetic abnormalities in the baby,

such as spina bifida. Also, medical problems are discussed and risk factors identified that might cause potential complications.” Women who are closer in age to or over 40 are having children with much greater frequency, which is less of an issue medically than ever before, though it still has its risks. “The biggest change from the past is de-

layed child bearing age in women,” Khoury said. “With aging comes the increased incidence of multiple genetic diseases for the baby, such as Down syndrome, as well as diseases of aging of the mother such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. In addition, there is more need for assisted reproduction, resulting in more multiple gestations.”

Mootabar has been practicing for 11 years. “The fundamentals of prenatal care haven’t changed, which is giving preventative care to identify problems during a pregnancy,” he said. “What has changed in the 11 years is the new tests that are available to us, particularly CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

Group classes with

MIND BODY FITNESS NYC Toddler Yoga PrenaTal/PosTnaTal FiTness (a BYoBaBY class!)

*SPRING SESSION DISCOUNT: TAKE 10% OFF ALL GROUP CLASSES

*Offer valid through April 1st, 2015. Use promo code MBF10.

WWW.MINDBODYFITNESSNYC.COM

917-300-9047 . mindbodyfitnessinfo@gmail.com . Group classes held at Dobbs Ferry We also offer in-home personal training and yoga sessions. Reclaim your body today!

CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE MARCH 13, 2015 KIDS! CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

better and more accurate ultrasounds and less invasive testing for genetic diseases.” “With the advance of ultrasonography, fetal monitoring has been improved dramatically,” Khoury said. “We are able to track from visit to visit the growth of the baby, the fetal anatomy, organ development, etc. Also, newer genetic testing with fetal mapping is available and we are able to screen for more genetic diseases, which in the past could only be discovered at birth. These days, they are discovered before the 15th week of pregnancy, which gives a mother more options.” Earlier detection is really what sets today apart from two years ago, 10 years ago, 20 years ago and so on. Most recently, a blood test detects over 99 percent accuracy Down syndrome and “virtually replaces the amniocentesis, which is the needle we passed through a woman’s belly,” Mootabar said. That procedure used to carry risk of miscarriage. “Now with the new blood test there’s lower risk of any issues,” Mootabar said. “That’s one of the major revolutionary changes in the last few years, this blood test. Not only Down syndrome but a couple of other chromosomal abnormalities.” Not everyone had the amnio and not everyone has this particular blood test done. “The way that I talk to my patients is to have them think about what they are going to do with that information,” Mootabar said. “If you’re going to make decisions on a pregnancy and decide not to continue if the baby has Down syndrome, then go ahead and have the test. If you feel like whatever God gives you you’re fine with, then you don’t have to do

the test. The other reason why a lot of people do the test is just to be prepared.” Further enhancements in testing could one day create a crystal ball for medical practitioners. “On the horizon is the whole issue of genetic testing, trying to be able to isolate diseases that occur as adults as early as in the growing fetus,” Mootabar said. “There are a lot of deadly diseases that occur in people and I think on the horizon with genetic testing we’ll be able to see if a fetus carries these diseases.” Access to medical care for mother and child is paramount in ensuring the best possible outcome. Monitoring mom and baby is nothing new and “it all started with listening to the baby’s heartbeat with a stethoscope,” Mootabar said. Next up was the Doppler to hear the baby’s heartbeat and then the first edition of the ultrasound machine. “With better technology of ultrasound machines over the past decade, we’ve done a much better job of monitoring the wellbeing of the baby,” Mootabar said. “Problems are problems, but we’ve been able to detect problems in an earlier stage and treat them more accurately. Things like preterm labor we’ve done a better job of determining and preventing.”

Now located on the spacious Maria Regina High School Campus Celebrating Our 42nd Year!

THE TOTAL CHOICE CAMP

Primary Choice Grades K-3 Grades 4-9 Camp Sessions Session 1: June 29th – July 24th Session 2: July 27th – August 14th Offering Stimulating Courses Like ... Computers • Theater • Robotics Swimming • Digital Photography Jewelry Design • Soccer Polymer Clay • Tennis • Basketball International Cooking Grand Prix Racers and much more! ★

Pre-prenatal care?

Psychoanalyst Ann Rose Simon, who has been in private practice with locations in Hartsdale and Manhattan for over 30 years, has a different approach for moms- and dadsto-be. Simon works with a lot of couples, but they usually start with her after there are fam-

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 15A

★

S PC AOMRP ST S

OPEN HOUSE ✮ CARNIVAL ✮

Saturday, March 14th ★ ★ 1-4 pm ★ ★

Summer 2015

Maria Regina High School (co-ed ages 6 – 15) Tennis Academy | All Sport Academy

Extended Day Available • Hot Lunch Included • Transportation Available

Hartsdale, NY call 914.328.3798

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23A

www.squirecamps.com • email: Squirecamps@gmail.com

A car broke his bones, but not his spirit. Sean Hughes Car accident survivor / High school sophomore

A mother’s worst fear — your boy has been hit by a car. Sean suffered from a traumatic brain injury, broken legs and a spine fracture. But thanks to the advanced care and support the Hughes family received from Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a mom’s worst fear turned into her greatest appreciation, for saving the life of her son.

PAGE 16A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

STYLISH MOM: Diaper duty, bag envy BY TRACI DUTTON LUDWIG

dmiring glances on the playground? Stares of envy at the park? In the world of mommies and babies, diaper bags have become a commodity of status and admiration. No longer just practical totes for babies’ necessities, modern diaper bags are now objects of style, design and desire. Margot, a Westchester mom, gushes over her cache. “Yes, I have a collection of them,” she said of her diaper bags. “My husband doesn’t understand it. He makes jokes about the number of bags in the closet. But I really don’t see it being different than having lots of handbags and shoes. A diaper bag is a practical necessity, and if it’s well-designed,

it makes your life easier. But, it should also function as an accessory and reflect your style. Since it’s with you every day, you should really love it!” The first diaper bag purchase occurred before the birth of Margot’s first son and she’s going close to a decade strong buying diaper bags for her sons, and herself. Fashioned out of soft cotton with a vibrant Vera Bradley design, the first bag was beautiful, but not particularly functional. “I was a new mom, and I chose it because I had always like Vera Bradley bags,” Margot said. “But it was a challenging bag. It was delicate and you had to be careful with it. You couldn’t put it down anywhere without the fabric getting dirty — and let’s face it, life with kids is not always clean.” After about a year, as her son transitioned

GOOD SHEPHERD EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER A Non-Denominational Program Licensed by Office of Children and Family Services Registered by the University of the State of New York

Established in 1957 an e eric Am nguag a nL Sig in 4’s

Offering Programs for 2’s, 3’s and 4’s

Mu Spe sic c 3’s ialist & 4 ’s

Plus Optional Extended Day Mov for 3’s and 4’s eme

Art ist cial Spe 4’s in

Spe nt c 3’s & ialist 4’s

Registration Now in Progress for Spaces Remaining For School Year 2014-2015

Sasha Wilson, Educational Director Marianne Oley, Administrative Director

from stroller trips to active outings, Margot switched to a hardier bag, but kept the Vera Bradley number for sentimental reasons. Fashioned out of pretty, Teflon-coated fabric and lined with an antimicrobial interior sleeve, the new bag was practical, washable and durable. Since then, Margot’s collection has grown to include a variety of bags for different destinations, needs and moods. Differentiated bags keep the market robust. Backpack styles enable parents to be fully hands-free during excursions, and their larger size is ample for the myriad items needed for day trips. Smaller zipper totes can remain in the car, always packed full of essentials for quick departures. Some parents maintain separate bags — one packed for day care needs and one for family excursions. Jacadi makes a diaper bag that doubles as

compact, carry-on luggage for a plane. Colorful bags in a variety of prints and patterns coordinate with fashion trends, seasons and moods. Elegant designer bags, too, serve a practical function for dressy family outings. Margot agrees: “You don’t want to attend someone’s wedding in a beautiful dress with a bright, boldly printed diaper bag slung over your shoulder. Something smaller and understated would be perfect.” Of course, diaper bag fashions follow trends, some motivated by celebrity mamas. New York’s hottest nappy sacks include highend models from Coach, Kate Spade and Gucci, as well as designs from niche leaders such as Petunia Pickle Bottom and OiOi. On the West Coast, brands such as JuJuBe CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

COME TO GREENLEAF FOR YOUR CHILD’S CAMP SUPPLIES: Substitute a bottle of conditioner with lice prevention conditioner (once a week) Soap in plastic case Toothbrush/paste/plastic case Deodorant Plastic brush Razor Feminine products Sunscreen/body and lip Sunglasses Emergency sewing kit Hand-wipes (antibacterial) Personal medications Nail clippers and file Re-fill bottle (canteen)

Please call for information:

591-4104

www.goodshepherdirvington.com

25 North Broadway, Irvington Tuition Assistance Available

Accredited by the National Association for the Education of young children

GREENLEAF PHARMACY 544 Warburton Avenue Hastings-on-Hudson • 478-0004

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 17A

CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

and Baby Rebellion dominate the market. JuJuBe is known for well-engineered, hyperorganized storage compartments and dressy hardware. Baby Rebellion perfectly captures a hipster vibe through cool, alternative artwork, such as a patterned tableau of mustaches splayed across one of its iconic totes. Another brand, Diaper Dude, manufactures masculine, rugged bags, proving that diapertoting dads can still be men. Popular styles include boxy, messenger style bags outfitted in camouflage prints, Major League Baseball designs or solid color schemes in orange, black, navy and gray. While aesthetics are important to diaper bag design, efficient functionality remains the main priority. Key features of well-designed diaper bags include washability, wipeability, stroller clips and plenty of differentiated pockets. “Washability is probably the most important feature because, let’s face it, you’re not going to always have a clean diaper in there… and there will always be spills,” Margot said. Pockets — in plenty — are also a key feature. “With a squirming baby in one arm, you want to be able to quickly pull out everything you need,” Margot said. “I like to keep clean diapers in one pocket, plastic baggies for the dirty diapers in another pocket and wipes and hand sanitizer in other pockets. I need to know where everything is and be able to grab it quickly without having to dig.” The more storage, the better! Since diaper bags are like emergency survival kits, it’s useful to have additional spaces for bottles and

formula, snacks, a change of clothes, toys and a blanket. Since it is often cumbersome to carry a separate handbag in addition to a diaper bag, many mommies appreciate a separate pocket for their own accouterments, such as wallet, phone, water bottle and keys. As soon as toddlers are toilet trained, the number of items in the diaper bag naturally decreases. However, the need for the bag doesn’t disappear. Until children reach school age, many parents still cart around snacks, wipes, sippy cups, hand sanitizer, toys and seasonal necessities like blankets and sunscreen. For this reason, the best diaper bags are versatile enough to transition into general-purpose totes, backpacks or purses, such as the Louis Vuitton models. In Margot’s case, one of her favorite former diaper bags has

now become her go-to book bag for visits to the local library. The market for diaper bags has exploded to the point of supporting both primary and secondary markets. “The diaper bag section of the baby stores has really grown over the past eight years. The choices are almost overwhelming,” Margot said anecdotally. What used to be “a few models on a shelf ” is now an expansive selection taking up an entire aisle, “similar to the size of the stroller and car seat section,” she observed. Online retailers abound and sites such as eBay and Facebook groups even offer secondhand diaper bags. Pre-owned diaper bags include previously loved, gently used models, as well as varieties that were received as gifts but never used. Usually, secondhand diaper

bags, especially designer bags, can be purchased at a discount — but not always. If a celebrity mom, such as Jessica Alba, has been pictured sporting the same bag or if a desirable print has been retired, the diaper bag can even fetch a premium price in an online auction. “Obviously, you just have to wash the bag really, really well,” Margot quipped. Many diaper bags have gained cult status through their association with celebrities. While these bags may carry hefty price tags, they prove a mama doesn’t have to sacrifice style for practicality. Timi and Leslie bags have been a coveted choice among laidback fashion icons like Alba and Victoria Beckham, because of the brand’s rich details and elegant silhouettes. Storksak is another brand, first spotted on celebrity moms such as Angelina Jolie, which is adored for its practical pockets and generous size — large enough to accommodate a laptop. Jamah’s “The Nanny” bag, crafted from soft Italian leather, first gained notoriety on the shoulders of both Alba and Brad Pitt, and it continues to be a unisex favorite in the Hollywood crowd. For the regular folks, too, there are favorites. Right now, the trending “Allure Tote” from TWELVELittle is getting a lot of attention. As a slouchy, good-looking bag designed by two graduates from the Rhode Island School of Design, the Allure Tote does all the heavy-lifting for life with baby, but it looks and feels more like your favorite everyday, everything bag. So, you’ll express an identity that’s chic, modern and utterly put together — even if that feels farthest from the truth.

Classes are filling up. Reserve your spot now.

FIVE CORNERS NURSERY PROGRAM and

Give Your Child a Great Start

Summer Program

For children 2 years old as of December 31, 2015, we offer a five day program as well as a three day and two day program. Don't miss the opportunity to secure a spot for your child in one of the most sought after toddler programs around!

A balanced creative arts & music based enrichment program for 2, 3, 4 and 5 year old children Limited Space Available

at the GHC Early Childhood Center

At the GHC ECC, your child will be nurtured, taught and valued by licensed, seasoned, skilled and caring teaching staff. Where the secular and Judaic play-based, hands-on curriculum will respond to your child's natural curiosity of learning and incorporates various learning styles.

Ask us about these special programs and more:

• Differentiated instruction for 2s, 3s and 4s conducted

by educators from the Hudson River Museum • Rabbi and Cantor led school events • Afternoon enrichment of project-based learning through literacy art, math, science, music and movement for THREES and FOURS • Mommy and Me classes offering pre-school preparation

Contact us with any questions or to arrange a tour Gloria Smith, Director - 914-479-1421 • gloria@g-h-c.org www.g-h-c.org/ECC

GHC Early Childhood Center • 515 Broadway • Dobbs Ferry, NY

June & July

2, 3, 4 and 5 year olds

Pre-K Class • Three’s Class • Two’s Class Our “Home-Away-From-Home”nurturing environment will enrich and secure your child’s journey through their early childhood years

Mommy and Me - 15 months and up

Celebrate Toddlerhood! Come sing, dance, snack, play and read with us!

Registration now being accepted for September 2015 and the Summer Program. Director: Mary Cahill Administrator: Judith Rotiroti 18 Farragut Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

Questions? Call us at 478-2334 www.hastingspreschool.com fivecornersprogram@gmail.com

PAGE 18A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Having a baby:

Prepare emotionally for life-changing event BY ANN ROSE SIMON, LCSW If you are awaiting the arrival of your baby, you have undoubtedly selected the pediatrician who will take care of your baby’s health needs through infancy and toddlerhood. Like most expectant parents, you recognize the need for planning ahead for the physical health of your baby, yourself and your family. It’s a no-brainer. But what have you done to plan for the emotional health of your baby and for your newly constituted family? If you are like most, you may have read books on pregnancy and infancy, but not much more. You feel that you are emotionally healthy and resilient, so things should go smoothly. Also, there are so many other things to do before the baby comes like taking Lamaze classes and decorating the nursery. Who has time for another appointment? Like most other expectant parents, you may not fully appreciate that the introduction of a new baby into a family is one of the most life-changing events. It is in most ways a wonderful change, even a great miracle. But bringing a new baby into a family involves a total reorganization of priorities, a radical shift in lifestyle and a sometimes disturbing loss of longstanding and familiar roles. It is not surprising that even a healthy

couple or family is thrown into a state of disequilibrium and sometimes total disruption. So how can you prepare for this lifechanging event? Look within yourself

One of the best ways to prepare yourself emotionally for the arrival of your baby is to look within yourself. Many expectant parents approach this event by reading books and articles, gathering as much information as possible to prepare for the arrival of the baby. Some also seek advice from family and friends. But many find that looking outside themselves to get answers about childbirth, infancy and parenting leaves them confused by the many conflicting theories. You will be much better prepared to welcome the baby into your life if you look within yourself to explore your own inclinations and beliefs, learn to trust what you find and use this knowledge to guide you in this new, uncharted territory of parenthood. You may find this journey within to be the most rewarding and productive way to influence your role as parent and do what is best for your baby. So what exactly do you look for when you look within? • Your feelings about your own parents’ parenting styles: What was that like and how do you feel about their way of parenting?

What was the parenting style of your partner’s parents and how will this influence his or her approach? Will the two of you have different approaches to parenting? Could this be a source of conflict? • Your deeply held views of yourself as a parent: Do you see your parenting role as a nurturer, a mentor, a guide, a limit-setter, a disciplinarian, a hero, a friend? Do you have concerns about being a good enough parent? Really knowing your deeply held views of yourself as a parent can allow you to navigate this difficult terrain more comfortably and be a more loving and effective parent. • Your hopes and dreams for your baby: Having hopes and dreams for your baby can provide a positive atmosphere of support and encouragement for your developing baby. However, when these dreams come into conflict with the natural inclinations of the real baby, this can be the beginning of lifelong feelings of disappointment, hurt and depression. Your willingness to put these dreams aside, as you come to understand and enjoy the natural temperament and talents of your baby, will serve as the foundation for a secure child and a positive parent-child relationship. • Your anxieties and fears for your baby: Yes, some fears and anxieties are natural as you embark on this new role as parent. Is

baby eating enough, growing as expected, meeting her milestones? Have I childproofed the house sufficiently? Sometimes powerful personal fears interfere with a parent’s pleasure in his or her role. Often these fears are communicated to the child, who becomes unduly anxious and fearful. Coming to terms with your own anxieties and fears can allow you to be a more calm and confident parent and your child to become a more trusting, spontaneous and self-assured individual. Be patient and learn your baby’s cues

A second way to prepare yourself emotionally for the arrival of your baby is to understand that babies come into the world programmed with a wide range of developmental cues which have evolved in our species to ensure our physical, neurological and emotional survival. Your baby has many ways to let you know what it needs to survive and thrive. But babies, unlike our electronic devices, do not come with instruction booklets. It is often difficult to know exactly when the baby is hungry or tired or has a soiled diaper. You are likely to feel anxious and frustrated when you cannot quiet your crying baby. You need to be patient with yourself CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

Camp The Way It Should Be! Open House: JCC on the Hudson Country Day Camp

Sunday, March 22, 2- 4 p.m., at our Pearl River Campus For Country Day and Country Day Integrated Campers RSVP 914 366-7898

We are Country Day— we’ll shout it out from the center of the boating lake, over the hiking trails, to the top of the waterslide! At Country Day, we celebrate all of our campers for being exactly who they are. • • • • • • •

3 Daily Swims Progressive Sports Instruction Creative & Performing Arts Jewish Culture Special Events and Theme Days Buses from JCC in Tarrytown Ages 5-11 Junior Division Ages 11-13 Super Seniors Ages 14-15 Leaders in Training

Country Day Integrated Division (for Special Needs)

We are a unique, inclusive, Country Day Camp experience for children with mild-to-moderate developmental and autism spectrum disorders. • •

2:1 Camper to Staff Ratio Ages 5-12 Junior Division Ages 12-14 Super Seniors Ages 14-16 Just for Teens Ages 15-21 Internship Program

Little Friends Day Camp @ The J in Tarrytown

An Authentic First Day-Camp Experience for Ages 2-5 • • • •

2-5 half or full days Outside & inside in the A/C Science, nature, music, art, karate, water play & more Offsite adventures, swim lessons for older campers

One Week Mini Camps August 17-21

8th Week Camp @ Country Day (K-10) Explore a new intensive each day – from Robotics to Geo-Caching, Photography to Gardening, and Art to Basketball -- in addition to regular Country Day Camp activities.

JCC-on-the-Go (K-6)

A full week of day trips, leaving from the J

Gymnastics Week

(Girls 5+, with experience)

Develop skills on the apparatus, and have fun with games, art projects and more.

www.JCContheHudson.org

(914) 366-7898

MARCH 13, 2015 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

and your baby, giving yourself time to learn the cues your baby is giving you about what is wrong. Are there different cries that indicate a different source of distress? Does baby rub his eyes when sleepy? Is a certain time of the day cranky time? Patience and discarding perfectionism can go a long way in helping you become more attuned to your baby. Your presence, attunement is baby’s best toy

A third way to prepare yourself emotionally for the birth of your baby is to understand that your presence and attunement are the most important gifts you can give to your baby. New parents will often equip the nursery with all the latest toys that are designed to strengthen their baby’s physical, neurological and emotional development. These toys have, in recent years, been supplemented with iPad apps designed to delight the baby and raise the child’s IQ. But many parents do not fully appreciate that the best “toy” for their baby is the parent. Babies not only love to make eye contact, but need to make eye contact to promote optimal neurological and emotional development. Babies need to be talked to and sung to, long before they understand the literal meaning of what the words mean. Babies need to be held tightly but gently against the parent’s chest to feel secure and loved. ‘Baby proof’ your relationship

One of the most important ways to prepare yourself emotionally for the arrival of your baby is to baby proof your relationship

KIDS!

with your spouse. You have probably baby proofed your home, making the changes necessary to ensure the health and safety of your baby, such as getting a sturdy, safetyapproved crib and changing table and removing fragile and valuable items that can be broken and can bring harm to your baby as well. But have you thought of baby proofing your emotional relationship with your spouse? Baby proofing your relationship means finding new ways of living as a family that will preserve the integrity of that special relationship with your spouse, while at the same time assuring the emotional well-being of your baby. Many new parents are too tired or too preoccupied to have date time with their spouse for a dinner out, a movie and hopefully some good conversation. They do not appreciate that this time together can strengthen their relationship, allow them time to air their concerns about their role as parents and develop a parental partnership which will provide a more safe, secure and loving environment in which their baby can develop. This effort to baby proof your relationship will keep it healthy and vital in the face of the numerous stresses and strains that a new baby brings, and will be a key component in your baby’s emotional health. Ann Rose Simon, LCSW is a psychotherapist in private practice with offices in Hartsdale and Manhattan. She specializes in pre- and postnatal counseling and works with individuals, couples and families around parenting, relationship and communication issues. Email arsimonmsw@aol.com.

r e m m u S tage

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 19A

Camp Hours: 9:30am-4:30pm

Extended Hours 7:30am-6:00pm

SUMMER CAMP TAE KWON DO

LAKE-COMPOUNCE WATER PARK SELF-DEFENSE ARTS & CRAFTS INDOOR & OUTDOOR FUN!

1-4 WEEKS: $270/wk

5-7 WEEKS: $240/wk *Mention this Advertisement, Offer Expires*

914-479-5900

umacardsley@gmail.com 15 Center St, ARDSLEY

CLOCKTOWER PLAYERS at Mercy College

Six weeks of Theater Arts Training and Fun!

The spotlight’s on you! Kids ★ Jr Teens ★ Teens

June 29 - July 17 | July 21 - Aug 7

Each session culminates in a one-of-a-kind showcase Act! Sing! Dance! On the beautiful Mercy College Campus! Small Groups and personal coaching. Collaborate, Gain Confidence, Make New Friends!

Community Nursery School of South Presbyterian Church Established 1945 ~ Celebrating Our 69th Year

Inquire About Our Summer Session

Programs for Twos, Threes and Fours • 69 years of experience with young children and families • Master teachers and experienced staff • Creative Curriculum™ based on a firm foundation of research, the importance of play in developing young minds, and authentic, meaningful experiences • Large outdoor play area with bikes, swings, water, sand, bunnies and gardens • Large well-equipped indoor play area • Nature, Music and Movement • Extended Day Enrichment Option for 3s and 4s • Extended year and summer session available • Non-sectarian program

For further information, call 693-9072 Director: Linda Jo Platt 343 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY www.cnsdobbsferry.com Email: cnsdobbsferry@aol.com

PAGE 20A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

How tummy time became fussy time BY CATHY COLLYER Every old family album has grainy black and white pictures of happy infants lying stomach-down on blankets at the age of 3-4 months. Today’s babies cry when we put them on their bellies, and a raft of toys and equipment have developed just to make it tolerable. What changed, and what did our grandparents do to make it so easy? Safe-to-sleep is taught by pediatricians to reduce the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports this program, and it works; SIDS has plunged 30 percent globally in 25 years. Unfortunately, the traditional medical community has only a few words at the end of their online brochure to guide parents in positioning babies during the daytime. Their own studies found that this sleeping position delays rolling and crawling temporarily. The medical community is fully aware that parents are tempted to use car seats and carriers for sleep even though their research shows that this puts babies at risk for skull flattening. The good news? Traditional approaches to infant positioning and care will bring the smiles back to modern babies’ faces. Sensory feast babies need

Take another look at the photo album to

learn what our grandparents knew instinctively. Children are held firmly in a parent’s arms against a hip or shoulder or in slings against their bodies. They were moving constantly as the mom or dad walked, leaned and turned. This provided constant stimulation to the balance centers of the brain and visual system, prompting infants to automatically bring their eyes into focus and their head upright. When parents sat, babies were positioned across a lap on their stomachs or sides. The support parents offered at the baby’s head, neck and torso was exactly

where it was needed. When infants got tired they were put down on thin blankets in bassinets and cribs that made pushing up and rolling easier. Playing in the crib before falling asleep on their stomachs added more practice periods. When babies cried, the cycle of dynamic carrying and holding started again. This pattern of care was like water to a blooming flower. The constant opportunities for support, strengthening and stimulation of the senses made independent tummy time moments easier and easier. Move forward to today. Safe-to-sleep is

the right way to go, but our lifestyle has also changed. We are juggling working from home with child care and household chores. Very few parents carry infants in different positions throughout the day or even hold them for long periods of time, not because they are not loved, but because marketing has convinced parents that devices are better for babies. We now have sling activity seats and baby carriers or plush cushions for young babies that support them artificially in a sitting position with a rounded back and their heads held steady with inserts. These seats don’t allow babies to reach or rotate fully to explore. They entertain babies, but at a cost. Although manufacturers’ recommendations give use limitations, many infants sit still or sleep in their seats/carriers for more than 30 minutes at a time. The most recent AAP taskforce paper has reported infants sitting in carriers up to 5.7 hours a day in some studies. Lying on their stomachs is a rare and brief experience. Some parents are afraid to try it at all if their child cries, thinking that they cry because it is uncomfortable. Our children are crying because it has all become very hard work. Making a plan

Babies can learn to love lying on their stomachs and carrying a baby in a variety CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

ASPIRE After Camp Childcare

Registering now for the 2015-2016 school year

JUNE 29 - AUGUST 7 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. OR 3:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Daily or Full Time

Swimming . Snacks . Poolside Activities With Justin Moye & Stephanie Vega

For further information call Neil Stepman at: 478-5521 or cell: (914) 584-7059 Email: aspire.afterschool@gmail.com

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 21A

CHRISTIAN PRE-SCHOOL

CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

of positions can become natural again. First steps? Use a variety of carrying and holding patterns to build balance and head control. Carry infants in a variety of supportive positions that encourage them to lift their heads and move their eyes to follow and focus. Vision is a huge contributor to balance, and watching people and objects will help a baby work harder at these skills. Respect the head positioning precautions included in instructions for wearable infant slings and carriers. They are intended to protect a baby from suffocation. Make sure infants are lying on their stomachs using a firm surface that has some cushioning. Have fun musical, textural and moving toys that compel babies to look up. Offer tummy time when a baby is energetic and parents have the time to participate without being distracted. The reluctant baby can start with lying on a parent’s chest, face to face. The combination of being held securely and lovingly entertained is often irresistible. Do not discount temperament when making a plan. Cautious babies need to be slowly introduced to more movement and may only enjoy certain positions. They may love the semi-prone lap and shoulder positioning. Infants with a strong temperament may need short periods of entertaining tummy time, but they are often the ones who love the expanded carrying and holding opportunities the most. Once parents have made tummy time fun again, take a few photos of a member of the next generation of happy babies!

Keys to tummy time success Do: • Limit carrier and baby seat use. • Ease your child into tummy time if they protest. • Use movement, music and toys that move or have intriguing textures. • Carry and hold your baby in many different positions throughout the day. • Consider use of wearable infant slings for some periods of the day. Don’t: • Expect independent play right away, so make it fun for your child. • Forget the effects of temperament; be as active or gradual as your child requires. • Use the same toys every time. • Underestimate hunger and fatigue; try play at different times of the day. — Cathy Collyer

Cathy Collyer, OTR, LMT is a pediatric occupational therapist and nationally certified Happiest Baby on the Block educator in private practice. She provides consultation and training for families and facilities through tranquilbabies.com. She can be reached at tranquilbabiesny@gmail.com or 282-2326.

Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church

43 Ashford Avenue • 693-0026 dfchristianpreschool@yahoo.com www.dfchristianpreschool.org “NURTURING FAMILIES & FAITH FOR 4 DECADES”

Registering Now For 2015 - 2016 • A High Quality, Affordable Preschool Experience • Programs Available for Children Aged 2-4 • Dedicated and Experienced Staff • Kindergarten Readiness: Social, Emotional and Academic • Daily Multi-Room Rotating Schedule • Creative Play Areas Coordinated with Monthly Unit Themes • Balanced Curriculum with Time for Meaningful Indoor and Outdoor Play • Inclusive Environment Fostering Empathy for God’s World and God’s People

Summer Program 2015 July 6 to July 31, M-F, 9:30am to 12:30pm Call the Office for Registration

SUMMER TIME PROGRAMS: MONDAY- FRIDAY JUNE 29- AUGUST 14, 2015

Add Water AFTER CAMP A funky Summer Art Enrichment Program

URBAN ILLUSTRATION Summer Edition For artists ages 7-14

COME RAIN OR SHINE!

Join us for the ultimate urban art adventure summer style!

Learn new drawing techniques, work on a variety of different mediums and learn professional spray painting techniques! We will explore the art of pencil drawing, along with stenciling, and airbrush art. Your children will learn to constructively critique their work throughout the week, gaining more skills and idea possibilities. Along with learning and using examples from modern day artists we will explore different art styles from Picasso and Dali to Buff Monster, TooFly, Faith47 COPE, SEEN and L’amore Supreme.

PROJECTS LIKE : Canvas Art

Art meets nature (design using nature)

Space, Hours & fees Hosted at Farragut Middle School

Hastings on Hudson

Recycled projects: using old and recycled goods to create new, Inventive art Stenciling/Taping Airbrush Techniques

8:30-1:00 p.m. weekly $280/ week Stay past 1:00 p.m. with

Add Water AFTER CAMP

Skateboard and Toy Design Spray Painting techniques Screen Printing ** To participate in the spray painting portion of the program your child must have a protective spray painting mask that protects from all spray paint fumes, it can be arranged that I supply it**

Contact to register

Katie Reidy 912.655.9701

[

rarigrafix22 @gmail.com

]

A fun-filled and enriching extension to your child’s camp day! For children ages 5-12, located in Hastings-on-Hudson with hours flexible enough to accomodate a wide variety of work, vacation and camp schedules. Our weeks will be filled with hands on recycled and urban art experiences, daily trips to the pool, sports and games! We pick-up Hastings Summer Campers, have a quick picnic snack at our Add Water space at Hillside then field trips to the pool and other community spaces!

HOURS : 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm OR 3:00-6:00 Stay on after Urban Illustration Summer Edition to continue the fun

Back to School Brush-Up Week

TBD: SCHOOL START DATE UNSPECIFIED

please email us to be placed on a list to receive info as it becomes available.

Hours and Fees

After-Camp (Pre-k - 6th grade): 1-5:00 p.m $40/Day After-Camp (Pre-k - 6th grade): 1-6:00 p.m $50/ Day After-Camp (Pre-k - 6th grade): 3-6:00 p.m :$30/Day Back To School Brush-up: $85/Day or $375/Week

MORE e addwaterandstirink [ 912.655.9701] @gmail.com INFO : addwaterstirink.com

[

]

PAGE 22A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

clothing / shoes / accessories RY E B RO O K â&#x20AC;˘ 1 8 RY E R I D G E P L A Z A

KIDS!

contemporary / juniors / kids / baby other locations: M A N H AT TA N B R O O K LY N G R E E N VA L E

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 23A

Prenatal care CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15A

ily issues, often stemming from a problem with the child(ren), whether it be eating issues, anxiety or something else. It’s important, she said, to lay the groundwork before, not after, and let parents know the different possibilities that await them. “Very often you see patterns which had they been identified early on, had the parents really opened themselves up to saying, ‘Who am I?’ ‘Who is my partner?’ and ‘How can we be sure how we parent and how we are together?’ creates the optimal environment for our children,” Simon said. “Most people don’t do that.” Babies are a permanent part of our lives and the challenge never ends — it’s constantly evolving, usually changing once you get used to the current phase of life. Preparing yourself for this journey is key for parents, and Simon can help. “There’s always a lot of anxiety about here I’m going to be a new parent and there’s no turning back,” Simon said. “This is a lifelong thing and there’s a lot of anxiety about it. Join the club. All parents to some degree have that feeling.” Just like you would set up a nursery and maybe even hire a decorator, there are many things to think about that Simon admits will not prevent future arguments, but will definitely avoid some issues between mom and dad. She helps them look at their upbringing. Were they raised differently? Do they have similar feelings about discipline? Letting the

“We’ve been able to detect problems in an earlier stage and treat them more accurately. Things like preterm labor we’ve done a better job of determining and preventing.” — Dr. Navid Mootabar, Northern Westchester Hospital in White Plains baby cry? Talking about these things upfront will lead to easier problem-solving later on. And the last thing you want is for these issues to impact your marriage in a negative way or “otherwise spill over to the child,” Simon said. Among the exercises Simon has parents go through before the baby is born is to talk

The Beginners Club 18 Farragut Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

fivecornersprogram@gmail.com

Join our unique, fun-filled After-School Program Uniquely Created for Kindergartners and First Graders Creative Playtime, a Healthy Snack, and a Kaleidoscope of Enrichment Activities

Creative Arts Games utdoor O & r Woodworking & Clay o Indo Karate

h OPEN HOUSE Wednesday March 18th & April 22nd 6 - 7 pm

Cookin g Music & Mov ement

Open Daily September thru June 12:00pm to 6:00pm

Plus snow days, holidays & school closings by arrangement

“Just September” Kindergarten Only

WHY: Kindergarten days end at noon in September. If you need us to help... a short school bus ride will bring your child from Hillside to the First Reformed Church in Hastings. There they’ll enjoy the afternoon with a healthy snack and playful, enriching activities. Our cheerful space mirrors the Kindergarten experience for a smooth transition in your child’s day. WHEN: Month of September 2015 TIME: 12-2:00 pm or stay on until 6:00 pm

For Registration, call Patti or Judith 478-2334

about their “hopes and dreams for baby.” It’s something we all have and usually those expectations are extremely high. And why shouldn’t they be? But what happens when those expectations aren’t met in childhood and beyond? “The problem arises, and I see this a lot,

that they have very rigid hopes and dreams,” Simon said. “If your child is different from the ideal child you had in your head, then it’s very difficult to accept that person. What they want to be might be perfectly fine in the world, but not what you want. Even as a baby, your baby might be very audible and that’s not what you imagined. That’s going to be hard to tolerate unless you come to accept that there are different elements in baby. To be open to what you want and hope for, but open to the possibility that the child may be very different and accept it and appreciate it.” Setting this groundwork is similar to setting up the nursery and hiring a decorator. And like you would babyproof your house, you also have to “babyproof your marriage.” Some couples, as soon as the kids are born, everything other than work comes to a halt. “They never go out together, or very rarely because everything is built around the kids,” Simon said. “Their coupleness disappears and that’s dangerous. It’s an important role to be a partner to your partner.” There is a also a medical side where parents can focus on everyone’s well-being even before conception — Mootabar called it “preconception counseling.” “Discussing pregnancy shouldn’t wait until you are pregnant,” he said. “This starts before you’re pregnant to consider becoming pregnant. Come sit down with your doctor and identify any risk factors that we can decrease before pregnancy. It’s starting to get into a healthy diet and exercise routine. When you talk about preparation it’s not just prenatal care — preconception counseling is important.”

DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN Dr. Gary Heitzler

RAISE A CAVITYFREE CHILD!

Dr. Dena Mizrahi

WE OFFER A WARM AND CARING ATMOSPHERE Complete Preventive Care . State of the Art Sterilization White Fillings . Preventive Tooth Sealants Fluoride Treatments Most Insurance Plans Accepted

615 Broadway Hastings-on-Hudson, New York 10706 (914) 478-8585 www.hastingspediatricdental.com

PAGE 24A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

Cute Kids!

MARCH 13, 2015

Thank you to all of our adorable 2015 Cover Kid contestants, pictured on pages 12, 24, 34, and 36.

Ayden Newman

Kieran Hackett

Robert Frank Kahl

Parker Rice

Flora “Effy” Knell

Madison Murray

Peter J. Latman

Gregory James Pastucha

Alexander Martinez

Connor Pestone

Victoria Shemonoski

Olivia Roca

Bridget Hackett

Joel Rivera-Ojeda

Oliver Orkus

Benjamin Pawell

Mila Pestone

Georgia Schmit

Justin Petruzzelli

Gaia Previtali

Leo Schneider

Joseph Stanley Regina

Hannah Fay Rothstein

Jonathan Shemonoski

Miles Owen Rubino

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 25A

BONDING WITH BABY:

Move, make music, swim together BY LAURIE SULLIVAN

raditional mommy and me classes have taken on a new face. With more and more women in the workforce, those classes could be daddy and me or grandma or grandpa and me. For mothers or fathers participating in classes with their babies, it provides a unique bonding experience and exposes newborns to the stimulation of new sights, sounds and movements. Of course, not all babies react the same; some are content to take it all in, while others may snooze through class and still others initially may cry. According to an article on About.com, some great advice is to not give up after that first class. There are many benefits to mommy and me classes for adult and child. They give you a chance to get out of the house in those early weeks to a nonstressful environment and even network with other new mothers. Exercise classes for both can help you get back in shape and help you shed some of that excess baby weight. Unlike many Hollywood stars who look as if they never had babies after they deliver, the reality is that many women struggle with shedding those extra pounds to get back to their prepregnancy weight. Baby and me classes can add a new dimension to a baby’s world — and yours, too.

Locally there are a variety of different types of mommy and me classes designed to expand baby’s world and yours, from yoga to music to movement programs to support groups for babies and parents to play groups to parent/ child aquatic classes. And the key words for all these programs? “Bonding” and “both.” Moms and babies: interaction, activity

Rika Levin, marketing and communications director at the Jewish Community Center of Mid-Westchester in Scarsdale, described the four programs offered, all of which have been running there for more than

10 years. Levin said the JCC’s Baby and Me support group for new moms and their babies is “the greatest way to meet new people and explore topics like infant development, sleep habits, new role relations, returning to work, etc.” This 50-minute class is facilitated by a social worker and given over multiple days. The class is limited to eight sets of parents and babies.

The Music with Marc program is for older babies, ages 6-18 months. The class features singing songs, dance, rumble and movement games from around the globe. Drums and other instruments are provided. Levin said the class offers both socialization and dexterity for babies. Music with Marc is limited to eight to 10 infants and adults. This multiday Tuesday program runs for 45 minutes for each class. A Mommy and Me playgroup for 12-18and 18-24-month-old little ones teaches kids how to socialize in what Levin described as a “warm, caring environment through play and interaction.” There are creative activities that include art, music, games, puzzles, free play and more. Parents and/or caregivers must participate. Classes are small, with a maximum of eight kids and eight adults. Play and basic water skills are offered in the JCC’s parent/child aquatics class. Working together, parents and kids learn basic skills in this Little Goldfish class for 1- and 2-year-olds. Through the use of flotation devices, games and water play, children learn to become comfortable in the water and get physical activity. Each session is 30 minutes long and is given on Wednesdays and Fridays. All aquatic classes are taught by certified professionals and have a maximum class size of eight to 10 parents and their little ones. “It’s been great meeting with new moms and caretakers,” said Julie Dorfman, JCC’s diCONTINUED ON PAGE 26A

PAGE 26A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

Bonding with baby CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25A

rector of its Early Childhood Center. “Those first couple of years is scary and tiring and we take great pride in helping our families with all the transitioning. We also find that many of our young families have recently moved from the city to Westchester so we like to also help them meet other young families in the area.” Baby Bootie Boot Camp and more

Yes, boot camp for babes from 6 weeks to 6 months and 7 months to 1 year and, of course, their moms, is taught by Dr. Lois Rogalski, a mother of five herself. She describes Baby Bootie Boot Camp as a “holistic exercise class for mom and baby.” Babies are not only exercising with their mothers, but are exposed to background music that Rogalski varies from jazz to the classics to what’s current. Rogalski explained that the benefit of the class is to “regain and revitalize your abs, gluts and inner thighs — the core muscles — while enhancing the cardiovascular system.” She added that the class incorporates Pilates, “which is good to sculpt your entire body and good for getting your abs in shape [while] you’re holding your baby… It’s a nice bonding experience.” The babies are with their mothers who hold them. Rogalski ends each class with “a nice, quiet meditation.” Rogalski, who is a certified yoga, Pilates and physical fitness instructor, created the program after her first grandchild was born 17 months ago. She found that she was “working up a sweat” while taking care of her grand-

KIDS!

daughter, and thus Baby Bootie Boot Camp was born. She noted that not only do “babies get bored,” she believes that “exercise makes an imprint from an early age for babies.” According to Rogalski, the secondary benefit of these classes is that moms are networking with other moms with babies of similar age. She said that friends sometimes start taking the class together and classes can be custom tailored. She also offers private classes. Rogalski keeps classes small, about four sets of mothers and babies. Rogalski noted that the mommy and me yoga classes strengthen a child’s focus from an early age. She ends the class with a final meditation. After this one hour class she said kids are calmer. Mommy and Me Yoga is open to babies 12 months and up. During class Rogalski uses names like butterfly, London Bridge, flower and duck for yoga poses and employs other creative sequences, with music playing in the background. Kids are learning balance and learning how to breathe. These classes for 12-month-olds to preschoolers (up to 5 years) help kids to grow strong, well balanced and more focused, according to Rogalski. Yoga classes for older kids (she also offers Pilates) “can be with mommy or dad or with families as a nice bonding experience.” Rogalski noted that younger kids have had nannies accompany them as well. The class helps “give kids confidence and helps the growth of brain cells,” she said. Rogalski said she never adjusts yoga poses, explaining that the “whole idea is to feel your body to get into poses.” She does suggest a better way to do it, like saying, “Open up your feet,” and gives visual suggestions on how to do it.

MARCH 13, 2015

Classes are held in Rogalski’s home studio, adjacent to her office where she works with patients in her speech, language and voice pathology practice. Rogalski, who holds a Ph.D. in psycholinguistics/speech, language and voice pathology, incorporates yogic breathing with her students. She is the advisor to the Yoga Club at Scarsdale High School. Making a splash at the Y

Over at the YWCA in White Plains, babies make a splash in the Wee Splash swim classes. Designed for babies 6 months to 2 years, little ones are in the water with either a parent or a grandparent. Danielle Cylich, the COO of the YWCA said, “It’s not like it was 20 years ago. Moms are working,” so often a grandparent or dad is in the pool with the babies. At this level, family caregivers — be it Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa — are taught to “safely work with their child in the water, including how to appropriately support and hold their child in the water and how to prepare and encourage the child to participate fully and try new skills,” according to the Y’s online Website. Children are taught the foundation to help them learn to swim. The goal of the program is to teach water safety (entering and exiting the pool), adjust to the water, being comfortable in their exploration of buoyancy, body position, floating, gliding basic stroke action, life jacket use and breathing control, blowing bubbles, etc. The classes also feature games and songs to create a fun atmosphere. The Y’s Little Goldfish program is a swim class for 12-month-olds to 2-year-olds. The class gives parents and/or other family members and babies the opportunity to work and play together to learn basic skills. With the use

of flotation devices, games and water play, kids become comfortable in the water while getting physical activity. These 30-minute sessions are held on Wednesdays and Fridays and have a limit of eight to 10 family member and babies. The Wee Fish aquatics class is for toddlers ages 3-5 who don’t know how to swim yet. It teaches the most basic aquatic skills, generally with assistance. The goal is to introduce basic water skills, while simultaneously alternating arm/leg action on their front and back and to ultimately be equipped to progress and move on to the next level. Intermediate and advanced swim classes for swimmers are also offered and require an evaluation for placement. All water classes are taught by certified professionals. Toddlers can also hit the gym for gymnastics. Tots roll and tumble and are introduced to the basics. Age appropriate gross motor development is encouraged. Space constraints at the Y only allow them to offer mommy and me classes weekdays. They do however rent space to Musical Munchkins, a parent/child program that runs programs one weekend day and one weekday with nannies and caretakers often accompanying the babies. Musical Munchkins is an interactive program using multiculturally inspired instruments, drumming, movement, multilanguage songs, pretend play and even song versions of kids’ favorite story books. With so many activity and exercise programs available, babies have the opportunity to expand their worlds… and bond with the ones who love and care for them most. How sweet it is!

COME TO...

affordables AND SAVE!

A quality children’s consignment store. Discover what your neighbors already know! New and gently used children’s clothing (sizes 0-14) Spring and Summer clothes arriving daily Toys, bikes, trikes, cleats, books, car seats, high chairs, cribs and strollers too! We carry your favorite brands: Gap, Gymboree, Justice, Abercrombie, Carter’s, Nike, Adidas and Quiksilver

10 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry • 693-3610 www.affordablechild.com Regular Hours: Mon-Sat, 10-5pm, Thurs 10-6pm Closed Mondays July & August

Occupational * Physical * Speech & Language Therapy Occupational *Processing, Physical * Speech & Language Therapy Occupational * Physical *Motor Speech & Language Therapy Improve:WeSensory Planning, Organization, Language, Occupational Speech Language Therapy Occupational***Physical Physical***Speech Speech&&&Language Language Therapy Occupational Physical Therapy WeSensory Occupational * Physical * Speech &Organization, Language Therapy WeSensory Improve: Processing, Motor Planning, Organization, Language, Improve: Processing, Motor Planning, Language, Handwriting, Social Skills We Improve: SensoryProcessing, Processing,Motor MotorPlanning, Planning,Organization, Organization,Language, Language, We Improve: Sensory WeSensory Processing, Improve: Motor Planning, Organization, Language, Handwriting, Social Social SkillsSkills WeSensory Handwriting, Improve: Processing, Motor Planning, Organization, Language, Handwriting,Social Social Skills Handwriting, Skills Handwriting, Social Skills Handwriting, Social Skills

Sensory Integration Sensory Integration Sensory Integration Sensory Integration Sensory Integration Sensory Integration Sensory Integration NDT NDT NDT NDT NDTNDT NDT Therapeutic Listening Therapeutic Listening Therapeutic Listening Therapeutic Listening Therapeutic Listening Therapeutic Listening Therapeutic Listening Interactive Metronome Interactive Metronome Interactive Metronome Interactive Metronome Interactive Metronome

Handwriting without Handwriting without Tears Handwriting without TearsTears Handwriting without Tears Handwriting without Tears Handwriting without Tears Handwriting without Tears Kinesio-Taping Kinesio-Taping Kinesio-Taping Kinesio-Taping Kinesio-Taping Kinesio-Taping Kinesio-Taping Myofascial Release Myofascial Release Myofascial Release Myofascial Release Myofascial Release Myofascial Release Myofascial Release Feeding Feeding Feeding Feeding Feeding Feeding

Interactive Metronome

Feeding

Over33 33years yearsof ofexperience! experience! Over Over years of experience! Over 33years years ofexperience! experience! Over 3333 years ofof experience! Over

RobbieLevy, Levy,MA, MA,OTR/L, OTR/L,Director Director(914) (914)428-5151 428-5151www.dynamickidsny.com www.dynamickidsny.com Robbie

Robbie Levy, MA, OTR/L, Director (914) 428-5151 www.dynamickidsny.com Robbie Levy, MA, OTR/L, Director (914) 428-5151 www.dynamickidsny.com Robbie Levy, MA, OTR/L, Director (914) www.dynamickidsny.com Over 33White years of428-5151 experience! Robbie Levy, MA, OTR/L, Director (914) 428-5151 www.dynamickidsny.com White Plains NY Plains NY White Plains NY

White Plains White Plains NYNYNY White Plains

Robbie Levy, MA, OTR/L, Director (914) 428-5151 www.dynamickidsny.com

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 27A

Why experts recommend skinto-skin contact for infants

Mothers and fathers have long known how effective cuddling is to help comfort and calm an infant. But regularly practicing skin-to-skin contact, also referred to as Kangaroo Care, takes this cuddling one step further and offers even greater benefits. It’s been incorporated by hospitals nationwide and is becoming the standard of care for baby immediately after birth and beyond. Additionally, skin-to-skin is no longer just a hospital practice. The American Academy of Pediatrics and The World Health Organization recommend the practice to be continued throughout the postpartum period. Holding a baby close doesn’t just help warm and stabilize the child, it can advance his overall physical health, psychosocial and developmental growth. Skin-to-skin contact is a holding technique where you hold your child vertically against your bare chest. The idea is to put your child’s full chest surface, from his belly button to the top of his sternum, in full contact with your skin. Full chest-to-chest contact without any clothing or underwear is critical when practicing skin-to-skin. Fabric will act as a barrier and the benefits will not be delivered. Why is it so critical to be bare chest to bare chest? The outer layer of skin over the front of the chest is packed with nerve fibers that can release hormones that eliminate stress responses in the brain and body. These extremely sensitive nerves respond only to pleasing human touch. When the nerves are stimulated, it sends a message of pleasure directly to the

brain. In response, the brain produces a hormone called oxytocin, known as the feel good hormone. This hormone is responsible for the feeling of calmness, contentedness, connectedness, happiness and love. When oxytocin is released, it acts upon several different systems throughout the body, delivering incredible benefits for both parent and child. The benefits of skin-to-skin contact go way beyond developing a bond with your newborn. When this contact occurs for an uninterrupted 60 minutes, your child can go through one full sleep cycle resulting in many benefits including accelerated brain development; regulation of body temperature; stress reduction, enhancement of the immune system encouragement of breastfeeding behavior, and more. Skin-to-skin contact for the mother helps to reduce risk of postpartum depression, increases milk production, speeds delivery recovery time and promotes psychological well being. Once you and baby are home, it can be difficult to find 60 uninterrupted minutes of skin-to-skin contact two to three times times a day throughout those early weeks. This is especially true if there are other children at home who require attention. To address this challenge, the NüRoo Pocket was designed, a patent-pending babywearing shirt that allows you and baby to be skin-to-skin, while offering full coverage and the opportunity to be up and on your feet, hands-free. Learn more about the science behind skinto-skin by visiting www.nuroobaby.com. –Brandpoint

Since 1996

Looking for the Best in Kids Bedrooms? Safe • Solid • Secure • 100% Guaranteed

MADE IN USA

24 Beautiful Finishes

50 Designer Decorated Room Settings

Since 1980

Enroll by March 15 & SAVE at P URCHASE

COLLEGE

Open 7 Days

Quivcekry Deli

Bedding • Rugs • Lighting • Windows • Gifts

Jun 22 - Aug 28

weekly sessions

19CAMPS

TENNIS • SOCCER • BASEBALL • BASKETBALL • DIVING FIELD HOCKEY

daily swimming • VOLLEYBALL • HORSEBACK RIDING

• MULTI-SPORTS • FOOTBALL • LACROSSE • CIRCUS ARTS • MAGIC • SWIM

ACADEMIC • SOFTBALL

• RISING STARS • CHEERLEADING • S.T.E.M. EDUCATION

DOOR TO DOOR TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE

914.273.8500

fscamps.com

Ages 4-16 Boys & Girls

summer 2015

www.countrywillowkids.com • 914-241-7000

Just Off 684, Saw Mill or Rt 35 • 230 Rt 117 By Pass Rd, Bedford Hills, NY

PAGE 28A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

The power of play

Sensory-motor play is more important than ever! BY ROBBIE LEVY, MA, OTR/R A 9-month-old baby pushes up on her hands and knees and crawls to a stack of blocks or rings and knocks them down. The baby smiles from ear to ear, having achieved something new. Now what we see these days are babies and toddlers with iPhones in their hands or mouths being carried or wheeled from one place to another in some sort of stroller or bucket with no one speaking to them. Observe playdates for preschoolers and you often see kids playing on devices with little interaction between them. They are not using all their senses, expanding their development or having rich language and social exchanges. How do young children learn and grow? It is by experiencing the world with their seven senses. Sensory-motor play allows them to do this. We have seven senses: vision, hearing, touch, movement, jointsense (proprioception), taste and smell. Every child needs to experience all seven in large doses in their early years to grow into healthy and self-regulated students when they enter school ready to meet the physical attention and academic demands of kindergarten. It is through play rich in sensory and motor components that chil-

dren develop language, social competence, intelligence and motor abilities. Today with the onslaught of technology in our society, it is less common to see children playing with all of their senses and certainly not enough of the time. Technology typically provides mainly visual and

Soccer Post of Bedford Hills is the destination for all your soccer needs! • Extensive selection of Cleats for both Youth and Adult • Apparel and Replica Jerseys for Men, Women & Youth • Authentic Name Kits, Gifts for Soccer Enthusiasts • Exceptional customer service by SOCCER EXPERTS • Coaching Supplies, GK Apparel & Gloves • Team Uniforms, KWIK Goals, Pop Up Soccer Goals, and much more! Store Hours Mon.-Thurs. 10am-6pm Friday 10am-5pm Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 11am-4pm Ideally located in BEDFORD HILLS,near Saw Mill River Parkway, next to Pedigree Ski & Tennis

532 Bedford Road • Bedford Hills, NY 10507

(914) 242-9800

Bring this ad to our store & receive

15% OFF

full priced footwear through June 1, 2015!!!

auditory stimulation and a whole lot of it. Children’s bodies need more variety in sensory input, greater diversity in experiences and undoubtedly more social interactions, both with peers and adults. What do the experts say? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) came out

with guidelines in 2012 about the use of media as well as ideas on how to include it functionally in our lives as it is here to stay. According to the AAP, children 2-and-under should not be participating in media experiences at all. For children from 3-5 years, it should be 1-2 hours of media experiences. Those are the recommendations, but what is the reality? Most young children participate in 7-8 hours of media activities a day. That is a large discrepancy from the recommendations and we should carefully consider what this discrepancy means. When young children play with too much technology it limits their interaction with three-dimensional objects. While they may hear and see an object, they cannot feel, squeeze, move, smell or taste it. They miss out on five of the seven properties of that object. Children are also missing social opportunities, problemsolving experiences and time for creativity. In addition, they tend to be more sedentary during technology play. What can we do as parents, caregivers and teachers to infuse sensory-motor play back into their lives? For our youngest children we need to CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

get them on the floor and allow them to play. Make sure the environment is safe and have them spend time with toys both with and without adults. We can get down on the floor with them. Provide languagerich interactions and shared joint attention especially when reading, with or without technology. Let them be on their tummies and move in and out of various positions as well as climb, jump and slide as they are able. Allow for messy play. Children learn by feeling things, so play with play dough, shaving cream, water, textured toys and allow children to explore with their hands, feet and mouths. Do not rush to put crayons and scissors in their hands at this age. They need to still be experiencing the world directly, not through a tool. Children 3 to 5 are expanding their skills every day, so allowing diversity in their experiences is key. Remember all seven senses when playing gross and fine motor games and keep them fun and creative. Continue being messy! Kids still need to touch and feel to learn. You can add tools to the hand like crayons, markers and scissors, but make sure they are not using tools exclusively. Finger-painting is a great activity at this age and the pictures can get more sophisticated as the child gets older. Don’t forget buttons, snaps, zippers and laces. Provide interaction with nature even if you need to bring it indoors. Grow an indoor herb garden or terrarium if the weather is inclement. Play with all your senses. Experience

different playgrounds instead of just using the same one. This expands your child’s motor planning abilities and ultimately their motor skills and development. Use fine-motor manipulative toys especially with a little resistance (toys you push and pull together), hammer and screw together. Have them create mini-cities or forts using their imaginations and build on your child’s language at the same time. Use anything you can find for building: pillows, sheets, paper towel rolls, egg containers, bean bags etc. Cooking is another wonderful activity that incorporates many senses. Have your child pour and stir and even whip if they can. Older children can practice cutting as well. Also allow time for children to be in self-directed play. As children spend most of their time responding to the directives of an adult or computer voice, this time allows them to use their creativity, problem-solve independently, as well as enhance their selfregulation. It is through play rich in sensory and motor components that children develop language, social competence, intelligence and motor abilities. Let’s add as much of this play back into their lives so we can support and enhance their development for years to come. Robbie Levy MA, OTR/R, is the director of Dynamic Kids in White Plains with 33 years working with children and a national lecturer for PESI-Rehab. She can be reached at rlevy@dynamickidsny.com or 428-5151.

memories that last a lifetime

The Best Summer Ever...

It’s like talking to a friend who really gets your child and understands your priorities. Spectacular Summers provides individualized camp and teen program guidance based on our personal and up-to-date knowledge of the programs. We’ll listen to your input and make excellent recommendations for your consideration. Contact: Ellen Wylie Regarded as one of the most highly respected advisors by camp and teen program directors 914-722-2644 ellen@spectacularsummers.com

888-774-CAMP www..spectacularsummers.com

Scarsdale Synagogue/Temples Tremont + Emanu-El Scarsdale Synagogue/Temples Tremont + Emanu-El

Nursery classes for for toddlers toddlers School classes Nursery School classes for toddlers and children22,through 3 and 45 years and children years of of age and children 2, 3 and 4 years of age Extended day available for 3’s and 4’s Parenting programs programs Parenting

Summer campfor fortoddlers toddlers Summer camp Summer camp for toddlers through yearsof ofage age through 66years through 6 years of age

For more information about our programs, please call:

For more information about our programs, please call: For more information about our programs, please call: Jody Glassman, Director Jocelyn Gross, Assistant Director Jody Glassman, Director Jocelyn Gross, Assistant Director Jody Glassman, Director

Jocelyn Gross, Assistant Director

To Join Our Synagogue, call Gary Katz, Executive Director To Join Our Synagogue, call Roberta Aronovich, Executive Director To Join Our Synagogue, call Gary Katz, Executive Director

2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale y 914-723-3001 y mazeltots@aol.com 2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale • 914-723-3001 • mazeltots@aol.com 2 Ogden Road Scarsdale y 914-723-3001 y mazeltots@aol com

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 29A

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Westchester’s highest quality programs for over 30 years.

Where Every Student is Special

SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS

Dance Intensives June 29 - August 14 Ages 6-7, 8-12 & 13-18 All Levels

NOW OFFERING Pre-Professional Levels NEW One Week Ballet Intensive June Ages 12-18 NEW Pre-Season Dance Camp August NEW Fairytale Ballet Camps Ages 3-4, 4-5 & 5-6 NEW

Receive 20% OFF

723-2940 • 450 Central Park Ave • Scarsdale www.centralparkdance.com ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The Rivertown Pre-School

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

KIDS! ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

MARCH 13, 2015

The Pre

A unique FULL A unique FULL-DAY creative-arts based childcare childcare program designed to stimulate the progra growing growing mind of the pre-school aged child . mind of

Daily Activities Include: Daily Ac Pottery • Music and Mov

Pottery •• Music Music and and Movement Movement •• Theater Theater Arts Arts •• Science Science & & Nature Nature Pottery Hands-on (and in! Hands-on (and in!) Modern Art • Cooking and Baking Hands-on (and in!) Modern Art • Cooking and Baking Imaginati Imaginative Costumed-Fantasy Costumed-Fantasy Play Play Imaginative

Program Hours: Hours: Program

Daily from from Daily 7:30 a.m. a.m. -- 6:30 6:30 p.m. p.m. 7:30 3, 4, 4, or or 5 5 day day programs programs available available 3,

Prog

7:30 3, 4, or 5 d

Located Located in the Parish Hall of Grace Episcopal Church in the Paris Located 78 in the Parish HallHastings-on-Hudson of Grace Episcopal Church 78 Main Str Main Street, 78 Main Street, Hastings-on-Hudson For more For more information about this “Nanny altern For more information aboutprogram this “Nanny alternative” childcare pleas “Nanny alternative” childcare program please call 914478-6181 please AVAILABLE call 914- 478-6181 LIMITED SPACE SEPTEMBER ‘14 LIMITED SPAC

ASK ASK ABOUT ABOUT OUR OUR SUMMER DAYS PROGRAM!! SUMMER DAYS PROGRAM!! Director Director Pat Pat Palfy, Palfy, M.A. M.A. in in Early Early childhood childhood •• NYS NYS Certified Certified www.TheHomeworkClubProgram.com www.TheHomeworkClubProgram.com

A SUMME

Director Pat Palfy, www.The

PAGE 30A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Rivertowns Parent ’s Guide: HOW TO’s & WHAT’S NEW MVP is ready for another big summer If you’ve lived in White Plains or surrounding areas for a while, you’ve probably seen children wearing many different color variations of MVP Basketball Camp’s Tshirts. MVP has filled more than 20,000 weeks of summer camp since inception. The camp celebrated its 20th season last year with proclamations from both the City of White Plains and the County of Westchester acknowledging the youth services that MVP has provided. What makes MVP truly unique is that more than 30 percent of the campers pay no tuition for a full week under the umbrella of MVP’s scholarship program. CityMD urgent care arrived in White Plains in October with a new location at 222 Mamaroneck Ave., providing convenient and quality urgent care. They immediately sought to form partnerships to benefit the community with local nonprofits that had similar values. Kids wearing MVP Basketball Camp’s colorful shirts caught their eye. After a conversation between leadership in the two organizations, CityMD made a pledge to donate $5,600 to MVP Basketball Camp’s Youth Development Scholarship program, plus allocated an extra $3,400 to reduce the cost of the 2,000 T-shirts that MVP gives to campers each summer.

The grant from CityMD will be extremely important in helping ensure that MVP can still offer scholarships to more than 30 percent of all campers in a year when they’ve had to find these alternative locations to their usual White Plains facility, which is being remodeled. Scholarships are based on financial need, as well as performance in school. Any family that is struggling to pay the bills can apply. Many past scholarships have been granted to children through social services agencies like the Coachman Family Center, the Theodore D. Young Center, the Carver Center and the Boys and Girls Club of Mount Vernon. MVP is more than just a basketball camp — it’s a place where children from all socio-economic backgrounds learn respect, fair play, determination and hard work. “The kids who have gone to MVP wear their T-shirts all the time and talk about going back throughout the school year,” said Lowes Moore, former NBA player and executive director of the Boys and Girls Club. “And even without their shirts, these kids are easy to spot because going to MVP has changed them. They interact more easily with others and take instruction better.” Changes at MVP

Big changes are in store for MVP in 2015. Camp begins with two full weeks

starting on June 29 at Fox Lane Middle School and High School complex in Bedford. For the first time MVP will feature its 6-8-year-old co-ed program and its program for older girls at this Bedford location, in addition to three age groups for boys ages 916. Then when MVP returns to White Plains on July 13 for four separate oneweek sessions, the camp will use two new venues — Ebersole arena at Delfino Park and the Rochambeau School — to host its programs for boys and girls ages 6-16. The great news is that MVP will have a more personalized camper focus than ever as it restricts the total number of campers it can accommodate at these two facilities. The bad news is that programs will probably sell out early due to the lower overall program numbers that these facilities can accommodate. Online registration is available now and should stay open until at least the end of April, even for the most popular age groups. Stan Greene founded MVP Basketball Camp in 1994 with the dream that no child would ever be turned away due to an inability to pay. Greene passed away in December 2009 and is survived by his wife Gingie Greene, who serves on MVP’s board of directors. Stan Greene’s legacy is a basketball camp that has awarded over 5,000 scholarships since inception to economically disadvan-

taged children, plus scholarship awards to numerous children with a family member serving in the armed forces through MVP’s Hoops for Troops program. Last year, MVP awarded 339 full-week scholarships. For more information, call executive director Noel Muyskens at 946-1231. You can support MVP’s mission by making an online tax deductible donation at www. mvpbasketballcamp/community.

Smart Boards for smart kids at Landmark Every day there are new apps and tech toys for children hitting the market. Developers say the apps are educational, and busy parents know that a digital babysitter can buy them a few minutes of valuable time. But is this technology a healthy thing for young kids? “Technology at 2 years old is definitely a touchy issue,” said Ann Hirsch, director of Landmark Preschool in Bedford. “Twoyear-olds need the opportunity to socialize and learn that they are part of a larger community.” Nevertheless, we live in a tech world. Children will encounter technology at a young age. Introducing them to it in a developmentally appropriate way is important, and the preschool classroom is a great CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

Is this youth facing a

mental health crisis? learn to spot the warning signs and how to take action until professional help is available. You can help. Sign up for Youth Mental health First aid Training. For more information, contact Julie Klaber at Westchester Jewish community Services, 914-761-0600 x116 or jklaber@wjcs.com. www.wjcs.com

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 31A

Rivertowns Parent ’s Guide: HOW TO’s & WHAT’S NEW CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE

place for that. As children move from the parallel play stage to more cooperative play during preschool, technology can become a classroom asset. And there are developmentally appropriate ways to bring technology to children in the classroom. At Landmark Preschool teachers use Smart Boards, interactive white boards that use touch technology to bring the Internet onto a big screen. This technology is incorporated in discrete, meaningful ways. “We do not spend hours on the board, but rather choose very deliberate activities, even making some of them ourselves, to help our students to grow,” Hirsch said. Landmark was the first preschool in Connecticut to install this technology and now has them in all of their 3-, 4- and 5-year-old classrooms. It allows children to experience and learn in more direct ways. “Instead of talking about zoo animals, we can show them what a zoo looks like — live!” Hirsch said. “We can play counting games, offer interactive stories and really expand on the weekly themes in our classrooms with this technology.” Children at Landmark study themes and for every theme, any skill we want to help our students develop can be demonstrated and practiced on the Smart Board. “The Internet is an amazing resource and we are able to tap into all kinds of info,” Hirsch said. “When we talk about our so-

lar system we can see how astronauts brush their teeth in space. If someone has a question like, ‘Do worms have eyes?’ we can say, ‘I don’t know that, but let’s find out!’” Landmark Preschool is a nonsectarian academic preschool with 40 years of experience in early childhood education. The program cultivates reading readiness and a love of learning through small group instruction. Landmark Preschool has campuses in Bedford, N.Y., and Westport, Redding, and Ridgefield, Conn. Landmark Preschool is affiliated with Ridgefield Academy, a not-for-profit independent day school that educates over 600 Westchester and Fairfield county students enrolled across its three campuses. This year the school is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Ridgefield Academy and Landmark Preschool are members of the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Visit www.landmarkpreschool.org or call 3932293 for more information.

Reading fundamental for students Reading is one of the most important parts of a child’s education. This month, Huntington Learning Center helps celebrate Read Across America and the 111th birthday of Dr. Seuss. “Literacy is the foundation of learning and the most essential building block in

a child’s education,” said Eileen Huntington of Huntington Learning Center. “Read Across America is one of our favorite national celebrations because not only does it bring attention to the importance of reading as an academic and life skill, it reminds us all that reading is fun. Dr. Seuss’s books revolutionized storytelling and continue to show readers of all ages that reading is one of life’s great pastimes.” How can p arents encourage their children to get excited about reading? Huntington offers these tips: • Let your child choose books about subjects that interest him or her. • Continue trying new types of books to give your child opportunities to discover that favorite book or author. • Select books that your child can read successfully. Choosing books that he or she struggles to read will only prove discouraging. • Read aloud to your child, even if they are in middle school. It is a great way for them to have one-on-one time with you and you can create excitement about the book. • Help your reluctant reader find books he or she likes. This may involve some trial and error, but talk with your librarian for ideas and look specifically for book series and lists designed for students who are below-grade-level or reluctant readers. • Reward reading. If your child needs a little encouragement, incentivize him or

her for reading each day. The more your child reads, the more successful he or she will become — and the more likely he or she will want to read more. • Make reading a part of everyday life at home. • Have your child see you reading every day. It shows reading is an important part of your life. • Make reading fun and don’t force it. Follow your child’s lead when it comes to selecting books, even if it means letting him or her choose a comic book over a novel, or a book that’s below his or her ability over one that challenges him or her. About Huntington Learning Center

Huntington is the tutoring and test prep leader. Its certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, algebra through calculus, chemistry and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.huntingtonhelps.com. GUIDE CONTINUES ON PAGE 32A

Nurture Nurture talent talent in in your your child child Hudson Hudson River River School School of of Music Music

WESTCHESTER MAGAZINE

Winner ~ 2010 • 2011 • 2012 • 2013 ~ “Best Place To Throw a Party”

Afternoon and evening private violin, viola and Afternoon and evening privateages violin, cello lessons for children 3 toviola 18. and cello lessons for children ages 3 to 18. note Group playing, chamber music, orchestra, Group playing, chamber music, orchestra, note reading and eurhythmics classes available. reading and eurhythmics classes available. Established 1968 * Oldest Suzuki-based music school in the Northeast Established 1968 * Oldest Suzuki-based music school in the Northeast

FAMILY FUN • BIRTHDAY PARTIES • SPECIAL EVENTS

29,000 SQUARE FEET OF MODERN CLEAN INDUSTRIAL SPACE ACCOMMODATING EVENTS FROM 20 TO 1000 + PEOPLE 3,000 SQUARE FEET OF HIGH END ARCADE GAMES 4 MINI AMF BOWLING ALLEYS LASER TAG • INDOOR PLAY STRUCTURE • ROCK CLIMBING WALL

$100 OFF C O U P O N VA L I D T H R U 6 / 3 0 / 1 5

Our Parties are ALL INCLUSIVE !!! Contact: Amy Rosen * (914)693-9481 * * amyrosen.hrsm@gmail.com * * www.hrsm.org * 600 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. Contact: Amy Rosen * (914)693-9481 * * amyrosen.hrsm@gmail.com * * www.hrsm.org * 600 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.

WWW.LIFETHEPLACETOBE.COM

914.591.4400 2 LAWRENCE STREET, ARDSLEY, NY 10502

PAGE 32A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Rivertowns Parent â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide: HOW TOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW Tips: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too soon for summer camp plans During the summer while schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out, kids are at greater risk for learning loss and weight gain unless they have a game plan that includes learning enrichment and physical activity. Summer camps are a great way to ensure children continue to grow socially, emotionally, cognitively and physically, while learning skills that will serve them well in the coming school year and beyond. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too early to begin planning your summer camp options now. Working with SEER, an independent research organization, the Y surveyed nearly 40,000 parents with children enrolled in Y camp programs. The survey revealed that 91 percent of parents said they agreed day camp programs helped their kids make new friends. In addition, 81 percent said they agreed the program helped their kids discover what they can achieve, while 86 percent agreed their child felt a sense of belonging at camp. Taking time to research summer camp options is critical to finding the best fit for your child. Consider a camp program that offers learning, exploration and achievement to help make your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer the best ever. Here are some questions to ask when selecting a camp: 1. Does your child want to attend a day camp or a resident camp? Typically, day camps are a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first camp experience that

prepares him or her for overnight camps later on, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no rule that says kids must start close to home. It all depends on what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for, and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comfortable for your child. Most importantly, you want your child to have fun at camp! As a nonprofit committed to youth development, the Y offers more than 1,800 day and 300 resident camp programs. Y camps focus on three areas proven to impact child development: friendship, accomplishment and belonging. 2. What camp size is best? Make sure your camp meets the recommended leader-toparticipant ratio. For example, there should be a 1:10 ratio for camps catering to 8 to 10 year olds. Also, ask yourself how your child interacts with peers. Some kids enjoy large camps where they can make many friends, while others do better in smaller groups, like

a few dozen campers, where thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no fear of getting lost in the crowd. 3. Does the camp have qualified staff? Selecting a camp requires trusting that the camp selects well-qualified young adults and trains them well to safely lead programs that provide values lessons for your child. Learn about the staff and camp directors to be assured that the camp screens, carefully selects and trains their leaders. Many camps are accredited by the American Camp Association, which requires adherence to a wide range of safety practices. 4. Does your child want a general camp or a specialty camp? Many organizations like the Y offer more classic programs that get back to nature with rustic cabins and a variety of outdoor activities. Some offer specialty programs with a single goal in mind, such as nature

education, training for a sport, horseback riding or performing music. Talk to your children about what type of camp interests them and would best provide their ideal summer experience. Traditional camps that offer a wide variety of outdoor programs can be very impactful, and provide kids with choices that they can make independently. 5. Does the camp encourage healthy eating and physical activity? The collaboration between first lady Michelle Obama, the Partnership for a Healthier America and the Y has focused on developing healthy habits in kids, families and communities across the nation. These healthy eating and physical activity (HEPA) standards have been adopted by summer day and resident camps. Make sure your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s camp program offers plenty of health-conscious meals and snacks while providing plenty of chances for exercise. When kids are out of school, they can face hurdles that prevent them from reaching their full potential, related to hunger, water safety, academics, safe spaces to play and health. Through summer camp and other youth development programs, the Y helps more than 9 million youth nationwide â&#x20AC;&#x153;hop the gapâ&#x20AC;? and achieve more, providing a safe to place to learn, stay healthy and build friendships. To learn more about Y of the USA summer and day camp programs, visit www.ymca. net/camp. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Brandpoint GUIDE CONTINUES ON THE NEXT PAGE

DANCE SUMMER CAMP June 22-August 7, 2015

...Westchesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Outstanding Day Camp... In Scarsdale, NY

A SUMMER TRADITION FOR 87 YEARS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 3-13

For exciting Dance Classes for ages 7 to 18 with a variety of styles: Modern, Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Musical Theater, Composition, Repertory and more. Plus Dance Master Series Professional Dance Company Residency Adult Adaptive Dance Intensive Special Needs Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance Camp

For more information or to register, please contact us at (914) 328 1900 or email us at info@steffinossen.org 216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606 www.steffinossen.org

ONE-ON-ONE ONE-ON-ONE ONE-ON-ONE ONE-ON-ONE ONE-ON-ONE ONE-ON-ONE IN HOME TUTORING IN HOME TUTORING HOME TUTORING IN HOME TUTORING IN HOME TUTORING HOME TUTORING K-12ALL ALLSUBJECTS SUBJECTS K-12

Since 1929, the Libman Family has been providing children with active, safe and memorable summers. Camp Hillard offers a complete program that uniquely combines learning skills while having fun, with spirit, tradition and first-class facilities.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL (914) 949-8857, OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CAMPHILLARD.COM One Family

Four Generations

Est. 1929

K-12 ALL SUBJECTS K-12 ALLSUBJECTS SUBJECTS K-12 K-12 ALLALL SUBJECTS â&#x20AC;˘ 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 â&#x20AC;˘ 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 â&#x20AC;˘ 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 â&#x20AC;&#x153; Thâ&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x153; â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 T â&#x20AC;˘ 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 eE hheeeG D G hhD G â&#x20AC;&#x153; TheeT ETD yo G youur ch G EurEErE E yo yo yo GE EED s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' yo ch ilch u dililddild s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' ch iluudilrrdchrch s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' n n ee ee d n d s ee ee n to d ee d s S n d to U S ee s U C S to d U S C C s U C S E to C U C C E E s -!4( s 72)4).' S E D C C E U s -!4( s 72)4).' D s -!4( s 72)4).' CCCEEE s -!4( s 72)4).' !â&#x20AC;?!â&#x20AC;? s -!4( s 72)4).' !â&#x20AC;?!â&#x20AC;? s -!4( s 72)4).' DD !â&#x20AC;?E!â&#x20AC;?EDD s !0 #/523%3 s 3#)%.#% s !0 #/523%3 s 3#)%.#% s !0 #/523%3 s 3#)%.#% s !0 #/523%3 s 3#)%.#% s !0 #/523%3 s 3#)%.#% s !0 #/523%3 s 3#)%.#%

s #/,,%'% %33!9 72)4).'

s #/,,%'% %33!9 72)4).' s #/,,%'% %33!9 72)4).' s #/,,%'% %33!9 72)4).' s #/,,%'% %33!9 72)4).' s /2'!.):!4)/. 345$9 3+),,3 s /2'!.):!4)/. 345$9 3+),,3 s /2'!.):!4)/. 345$9 3+),,3 s /2'!.):!4)/. 345$9 3+),,3 s /2'!.):!4)/. 345$9 3+),,3 s /2'!.):!4)/. 345$9 3+),,3 s ./ ,/.' 4%2- #/.42!#43 s ./ ,/.' 4%2- #/.42!#43 s ./ ,/.' 4%2- #/.42!#43 s ./ ,/.' 4%2- #/.42!#43 s ./ ,/.' 4%2- #/.42!#43 s ./ ,/.' 4%2- #/.42!#43 Linda Salomon,Director Director Linda Salomon, Director Linda Salomon, Linda Salomon, Director Linda Salomon, Director Linda Salomon, Director 914-380-4534

914-380-4534 914-380-4534

914-380-4534 914-380-4534 914-380-4534 Visit usat: at: EliteTutors.net Visit usVisit EliteTutors.net Visit us at: EliteTutors.net at: EliteTutors.net Visit us at: us EliteTutors.net Visit us at: EliteTutors.net

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

Rivertowns Parent ’s Guide

Baby’s food can have long-term impact

Experts agree that the food babies eat helps set the stage for growth and development, but did you know that it also impacts long-term eating habits and taste development? Children who consumed fruits and vegetables infrequently and drank sweet drinks during late infancy showed those same habits at age six, according to new data published in the journal Pediatrics. Infants who consumed sweetened beverages more than three times a week at 10-12 months were twice as likely to be obese at age six. These findings validate the 2008 Nestle Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS), which also found eating habits are set in early infancy and mimic unhealthy eating habits seen in older children and adults. FITS is the largest, most comprehensive dietary intake survey of over 3,300 parents and caregivers of young children. The FITS findings showed preschoolers are getting nearly one-third (400 calories) of their total daily calories from fats and added sugars, and common childhood foods such as whole milk, cheese and hot dogs are contributing to excessive saturated fat and sodium in young children’s diets. Nutrition expert Dr. Kathleen Reidy, who heads Nutrition, Meals and Drinks at Nestle Nutrition, says, “What you feed your baby now affects them not just today, but tomorrow and beyond. The first years of a child’s life are a critical period of development, and instilling good eating habits during this time can help put a child on the path to a healthy future.”

For parents and caregivers, Dr. Reidy has some tips to help instill healthy eating habits for young children: • Replace foods high in saturated fat with lean meats, low-fat dairy products and foods high in healthier fats such as avocado, fish and those made with olive, safflower and canola oils. • Offer a variety of healthy foods, and try to set a good example by eating them yourself. • Milk is key in children’s diets and a top contributor of many important nutrients. Children over the age of two should be offered lower fat options such as one percent and skim instead of whole milk to limit saturated fat intake. • Pick foods low in salt/sodium, such as fruits and vegetables instead of those high in sodium like hot dogs, chicken nuggets and dishes that contain cheese. • Offer a rainbow of fruits and vegetables for snacks and meals. • If your baby or toddler resists a new fruit or vegetable, don’t fret and try again. It can take up to 10 tries before a child accepts a new food. • Plan ahead for healthy snacks to take on-the-go. Pack fruit and vegetable pouches for older toddlers. For additional tips on providing babies and toddlers with the best nutrition and a foundation for healthy eating habits, visit www.gerber.com to learn more. — Brandpoint GUIDE CONTINUES ON PAGE 35A

Westchester Head Lice Removal Services/Salon - Since 1997 The Original Lice Expert of Dobbs Ferry

Dale Longworth

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 33A

4 0 th A nniver

sar y

Experience Nature

• Seasonal and Community events for all ages • Nature’s Discovery Playground • Live animal museum open daily (Closed Fridays) • Birthday parties, camps, and classes year-round 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583 914.723.3470 www.greenburghnaturecenter.org A nature preserve and so much more!

JCC of Mid-Westchester

Summer Camps 2015 REGISTER TODAY!

· Camp Gadol · Camp Xtreme · CIT/LIT Experience BIG FUN, BIG LAUGHS, BIG MEMORIES A nurturing, non-competitive environment including swimming, sports, art, music, gymnastics, nature, special theme days and more for ages 2-15yrs.

· Developmental Needs Program

Provides children (ages 3-12) with developmental learning needs a nurturing, learning and recreational summer experience. Inclusion options are available.

· Summer Programs in the Arts Lice Removal Specialist of Westchester “Go Green” & Natural Products Used. Available 7 days a week Highly Recommended by doctors and school nurses In-home Salon or will travel Camp Checks • Visuals • Treatment Consultations

914-424-1367 ~ dlong2758@aol.com Visit my website for additional information:

www.liceoffinc.com

WHERE CAMPERS PURSUE THEIR PASSIONS

Summer Arts Center (SAC)

A place where campers entering grades 3-8 unleash their creative talents in art, dance, music and theatre.

Dance Intensive

Serious and experienced dancers entering grades 7-12 will take their training to a new level. All summer programs: • air conditioned • weatherproof • early drop off • late pick-up • ﬂexible programming

999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale Call Today for a Tour and Visit Us Online

472-3300 • www.jccmw.org

Exciting Options and Programs for all Campers!

PAGE 34A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

Luca DeVita Aranda

Alexa Mae Haase

KIDS!

Gwenyth Eve Bendell

Samuel Moss

MARCH 13, 2015

Ryan Callahan

Cute Kids! Saya Small

Theodora Canty

Elizabeth Murray

Lila Salvatorelli

Clinton Cassella

Nicholas Shemonoski

Experience the Difference Private and Group Lessons for Ages 6 and up Boarding • Training • Indoor and Outdoor Rings Showing • Sales • Leasing IEA Team • Summer Camp

291 Mamaroneck Road • Scarsdale 725-3912 • boulderbrookeq@gmail.com (Conveniently located off Exit 22 Hutchinson River Parkway)

Elyse Corbett

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

Rivertowns Parent ’s Guide Best ways to protect a child from eye injury BY CONSTANCE SKEDGELL Did you know that 43 percent of all eye injuries — including those in adults — occur in children under the age of 15? While children under 5 account for only 8 percent of such injuries, the damage can impair their vision and even endanger an eye. Should you be concerned? Yes, according to Dawn P. Rush, M.D., pediatric ophthalmologist at Northern Westchester Hospital. “Small children are active, inquisitive and daring, which make them accident-prone,” Rush said. “They are unsteady walkers, yet love to explore everything. The eye injuries they suffer damage the orbit (eye socket), cornea (external eye) and the globe (eyeball) itself. Blunt trauma can injure the retina.” The good news is, there are many effective ways to prevent pediatric eye injuries. Dr. Rush explains common causes of ocular accidents and the injuries they cause, and provides empowering advice on your role in protecting a child’s eyes from harm from birth to age 7. Many injuries result from objects that are thrown, such as “toys used as missiles.” These can scratch the cornea or, more seriously, produce blood in the eye, which can cause glaucoma and result in permanent visual loss. Severe injury occurs when a sharp or small object traveling at high speed penetrates and cuts the eye.

If the globe ruptures, blindness and even loss of the eye can result. A playground is often the site of potential eye injury, with kids throwing sand, dirt or pebbles. Lodged in the eye, these foreign bodies can cause scratches to the cornea, infection and more serious types of injury. Interactions with animals, such as family pets, can damage children’s eyes. “A young child is often at the same level as the dog, and about the same size,” Rush said. “The child can be seen as a threat. This happens especially at the homes of relatives, with a dog that doesn’t often see the child.” Injuries include eyelid laceration or teeth puncture wounds on the lid or eyeball. Then there’s the broad category of injuries that result from little kids being wobbly and prone to falling at the level of table corners and the edges of counters. These stumbles can cause a black eye, swollen eyelid, corneal scratch or bleeding under the conjunctiva (the clear film covering the white of the eye). When curious kids open cabinets, falling pots can cause eye trauma. If cleaning supplies are present, a “chemical splash” can seriously damage eyes. Scratch injuries are common in babies and toddlers, often incurred when they move suddenly while being held, and the mother’s or infant’s own nail catches the eye. In addition, sports like Little League baseball, that involve a flying ball small enough to fit into the eye’s socket, put the eye at high risk, Rush cautioned. CONTINUED ON PAGE 37A

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 35A

An Affordable Jewish Education for your child when you don’t belong to a Synagogue. Enroll your child now for the 2015-16 school year! The Children’s Jewish Education Group offers Jewish cultural studies for grades K-7, with emphasis on tradition, history and holidays. A professional teaching staff is supported by a parent co-op. Bar/Bat Mitzvah lessons available. Interfaith families welcome. Classes held Sunday mornings at Purchase College.

Come to our Open House Day! April 19, 2015

Call now for more information or visit our website:

914-864-1267 www.cjeg.org

An affiliated member of the

A great place to be a 5th or 6th grader! Individualized programs and a traditional day camp experience

Door to door transportation 2, 4, 6 or 8 week enrollment options Daily swim and weekly trips Programs Include: Baseball, Culinary, Lacrosse, Extreme Outdoor Sports, Hip Hop and more! Elmwood Day Camp 900 Dobbs Ferry Road, White Plains, NY 10607

elmwoodspecialties.com (914) 592-6121

PAGE 36A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

Henry Davis

KIDS!

Charlie Spana

Coraline Elsa Denny

MARCH 13, 2015

Daniel Stanton

Fiona Edith Denny

Griffin Kamke

Brooke Treacy

Chella Galletta

Jimmy Hackett

Cute Kids! Charlotte Sullivan

Benjamin Diamond

Arlo Werges

Joseph Distefano

Are you reAdy for your new role As pArent?

Get IN on the

BabyBonds can help!

ACT!

Join Westchester’s Theater for Children and Teens Spring Programs

Little Theatre (age 4-6) Studio Stage (age 7-13) Conservatory (age 11-18) MainStage shows (age 8-18) Design/Tech Track, Workshops Improv Troupe & more!

Ann Rose Simon, LCSW

BabyBonds is an innovative and effective program that prepares you and your spouse for the emotional challenges you will face when baby arrives. Understand the dramatic changes that occur in family dynamics. Nurture your couple relationship and baby-proof your marriage. Learn research-based methods to promote brain development in the first six months. It will make a difference.

Summer Theatre

Programs & camps for kids of all ages and experience levels. Sessions run July through mid August. Call 914-946-4433 to register today.

Arts in Education

Training Westchester’s teachers & bringing theatre into the classroom as well!

Family Shows

Baby Bonds

Come see a show at our White Plains theatre, starring Westchester's up-and-coming young actors… ...and bring all of your Ann Rose Simon, LCSW friends for a birthday 914 723-0197 party to remember! ARSimonMSW@aol.com

www.playgroup.org

Baby B

BabyBonds is a dynamic, customized program that can include: • Pre and postnatal counseling using newest research findings • Videotaping parent-infant interaction for discussion and A Program for New and Expectant Parents A Program for New and learning Be the best parent be! experiences and gain confidence in Be the best parent • Discussion groupsyoutocan share your new parenting skills Pre-natal and Post-natal Counseling Pre-natal and Post-n

BabyBonds 2 Brambach Avenue Scarsdale, NY 10583

Be the Best Parent You Can Be!

Ann Rose Simon, LCSW 914 723-0197 ARSimonMSW@aol.com

250 E. Hartsdale Avenue, Suite 21, Hartsdale • 914-723-0197 arsimonbabybonds@gmail.com Call or email for a complimentary consultation and information packet.

Baby Bonds

Baby B

diverse st riding e lessons dvantage questrian Teams, ng year30am to and the

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 37A

Rivertowns Parent ’s Guide CONTINUED FROM 35A

How can you prevent injuries?

Childproof your house, which involves “thinking like a sleuth.” Move heavy objects out of reach and lock cabinets containing poisons and cleaning fluids. Latch doors leading to stairs or install a gate. Cushion all sharp corners. Watch out for dogs that aren’t used to little kids. A child playing sports with an eye-sized ball needs protective eyewear with a polycarbonate lens, prescribed by a pediatric ophthalmologist or optometrist. As lens material is rarely identified on labels, have your gear checked by either specialist. “The mechanism of most pediatric eye injuries is twofold: the home is not child-proofed and the parent turns away for a second, to answer the phone or flip the eggs,” Rush said. “To make matters worse, the parent, who is the first triage person, typically does not know what happened.” Rush’s maxim is, “Supervision plus protection equals happy play.”

5 stalls s, heated me to the Program What to do in case of injury chooling If you see or suspect an eye injury, Rush am while advises first examining the eye and attempt-

g teams, thing for "Where

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

ing to figure out the cause. “Try to discourage the child from rubbing the eye,” she said. “If the eyeball is punctured, rubbing or squeezing will disrupt the eye’s structure and fluids can leak out.” Next, follow this decision tree: • Is your child complaining of eye pain or

something in the eye? Use sterile saline solution to fully irrigate it. Rush recommends keeping a bottle of the solution readily at hand for this purpose. After irrigating the eye, wait. • Is it still scratchy? If so, see a physician. • Do you suspect a chemical injury? Immediately irrigate the eye, either in the shower, at the sink or with a sterile saline solution. Then TWIN LAKES FARM seek immediate medical attention. • Did your child report being poked in the eye? If the eye is puffy or tearing, if vision is blurred or the eye is bleeding, immediately call your pediatrician or go to the emergency room. • Severe injury — causing pain, reduced or double vision, a very swollen eye or if a ball hit the eye — requires urgent care from a pediatriTwin LakesorFarm is Westchester’s largest and most diverse cian, pediatric ophthalmologist ER doctor. equestrian center, offering “When in doubt, check it out,” Rush said. both boarding and a robust riding riding academy starts at age 6 with private lessons “You can never be academy. too carefulThe when it comes before moving up to groups; adults ride daily and take advantage to a child’s eyes.” of the 8pm adults-only classes. For the more serious equestrian Twin Lakes TWIN Farm offers Drill Teams, Interscholastic Teams, LAKES FARM Horseshowing and Summer Leasing while also offering yearround boarding. Camp is coeducational and runs 8:30am to 4:30pm all summer and includes riding, camp activities and the very popular camp horseshow.

Set on two campuses each has its own indoor arena, 55 stalls each, lighted outdoor arenas, paddocks with hay feeders, heated tack rooms and wash stalls. The North Barn is home to the Riding Academy, Drill Team and Therapeutic Riding Program while also hosting the interscholastic (IEA) shows and schooling Twin Lakes Farm is Farm Westchester’s largest most win Lakes istheWestchester’s largest and shows. The South Barn houses boarders andand show teamdiverse whilemost diverse equestrian center, offering both equestrian center, offering both boarding and a robust riding boarding and a robust riding academy. The riding academy starts at age 6 with private leshosting nine USEF shows each year. academy.sons The riding academy starts at age 6 withadults privateride lessons before moving up to groups; daily and take advantage of the 8pm adults-only before moving up to groups; adultsadults ride daily and take advantage Whether children's lessons, lessons, riding teams, classes.it's For the moreclasses. serious equestrian Twin Lakes Farm offers Drill Teams, Interscholastic Teams, of the 8pm adults-only For riding the more serious equestrian showing competitively or recreational there is something for year-round boarding. Camp is coeducational Horseshowing and Summer Leasing while also offering Twin Lakes Farm offers Drill Teams, Interscholastic Teams, everyone at 8:30am Twin Lakes Farm which is why we areincludes "Where riding, camp activities and the very popular and runs to 4:30pm all while summer Horseshowing and Summer Leasing also and offering yearWestchester Learns To Ride!"® round Camp is coeducational and runs 8:30am to campboarding. horseshow. 4:30pm and includes riding, camp activities and the 55 stalls each, lighted outdoor arenas, padSet all onsummer two campuses each has its own indoor arena, very popular camp horseshow. docks with hay feeders, heated tack rooms and wash stalls. The North Barn is home to the Riding

st diverse diverse bust riding ate lessons st riding eadvantage lessons equestrian dvantage ic Teams, questrian ring yearTeams, 8:30am ng year-to es and to the 30am and the

Academy, Drill Team and Therapeutic Riding Program while also hosting the interscholastic (IEA)

Set on two campuses each has its own indoor arena, 55 stalls shows andoutdoor schooling shows. The South Barn houses the boarders and show team while hosting each, lighted arenas, paddocks Twin Lakes Farm® with hay feeders, heated ninerooms USEFand shows each year. tack wash stalls. The North Barn is home to the 960 California Road, Bronxville, • 914-961-2192 Riding Academy, Drill Team and Therapeutic Riding Program Whether it’s children’s lessons, adults lessons, riding teams, showing competitively or recrewww.TwinLakesFarm.com while alsoriding hostingthere the interscholastic (IEA) shows and schooling ational is something for everyone at Twin Lakes Farm which is why we are OF THEBarn COUNTY OF houses WESTCHESTER PARKS, & CONSERVATION shows. TheA FACILITY South theRECREATION boarders and show team while © hosting nine USEF shows each year.

55 stalls ers, heated 5 stalls ome to the s, heated g Program me to the schooling Program eam while chooling

“Where Westchester Learns to Ride”

Whether it's children's lessons, adults lessons, riding teams, showing competitively or recreational riding there is something for everyone at Twin Lakes Farm which is why we are "Where Westchester Learns To Ride!"®

am while

ng teams, mething for g teams, re "Where thing for "Where

Twin Lakes Farm® 960 California Road, Bronxville, • 914-961-2192 www.TwinLakesFarm.com

Twin Lakes Farm

A FACILITY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER PARKS, RECREATION & CONSERVATION

960 California Road, Bronxville • 914-961-2192 • www.TwinLakesFarm.com A FAcility

the county

Westchester PArks, recreAtion & conservAtion

PAGE 38A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

Vaccinations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5A

HASTINGS CENTER

Restaurant

Specializing in...FRESH SEAFOOD • STEAKS CHOPS • GOURMET DINNERS

Bring the kids in for excellent breakfast, lunch and dinner specials 540 Warburton Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson 478-3610

get working and you don’t necessarily go to an internist for a yearly exam like you did all during your pediatric life. Sometimes that falls by the wayside.” Even though it is generally accepted that if 95 percent of a population were immune to a disease, it would be very difficult to contract the disease if not immune, a concept called herd immunity. Richel said it is important for healthy individuals not to have to rely on herd immunity. “Folks that do delay or the ones that refuse, they’re depending on herd immunity, which is not fair to them or to the others around them,” he said. “If they’re still at risk, therefore anyone around them is should they contract any infection. That’s precisely what’s happened with the measles.” There are rare cases of children who have a comprised immune system or a particular allergy that might prevent them from receiving certain vaccines. Richel said that this small group of people is more reliant on herd immunity and often specialist doctors are employed to help them find the best care. Children can be opted out from New York’s requirements for vaccines for medical reasons. Religious arguments can also be used to opt out. This requires a stringent review of a parent or child’s faith, putting the burden of proof on the parent. Victoria Presser, public information officer with the Scarsdale Union Free School District, said that the records detailing which children are exempt are protected by medical privacy laws. She said that regarding measles, everyone attending Scarsdale schools fulfilled state regulations. “Every public school district in New York state is required to keep track of all vaccination records of every student and there are minimum requirements for school attendance and it’s all tracked minutely,” Presser said. “There are exceptions made for medical or religious exemptions, but they’re very rigorously reviewed and that’s a negligible number. In any case, concerning the measles vaccine, everyone has met the requirement.” Besides the vaccinations mentioned above, the only other inoculation required by the state to attend public school prevents

chicken pox. Richel also recommends receiving vaccines that are not required to attend public school in New York, such as hepatitis A; meningococcal conjugate, which protects against bacteria causing meningitis, among other ailments; human papillomavirus; and the seasonal flu vaccine. He has seen resistance from people unwilling to vaccinate their children with the flu vaccine, some of them reasoning that they would prefer their own immune system to protect them from the flu. Richel has also found others who are convinced that a flu shot has gotten them sick in the past, which is very possibly a coincidence. Even though the flu vaccine has a low effectiveness rating, this year’s flu shot is around 30 percent effective, offering some protection, Richel said. “It’s recommended for everyone, particularly for the young and the old and those with increased risk factors,” he said. “I certainly can’t force anyone to have that elective vaccine, but know that influenza is an infection that is a significant virus and can cause loss of school, loss of work and, if you look up the data, loss of life.” Richel has seen instances of parents who did not want their children to be inoculated against strains of human papillomavirus that take the form of a sexually transmitted infection, which can cause genital warts or lead to cervical or penile cancers. He said some parents see the vaccine as a free pass toward promiscuous behavior or that a child will not need it because they are planning on waiting to have sex after marriage The doctor said it is good to receive the vaccine because treating genital warts is difficult and it is a good idea to reduce a risk of cancer.

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 39A

V The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 W

DAY CAMP GUIDE Acres of Adventure Summer Camp at Ann & Andyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

www.BlueRockSchool.org Philosophy: Summer Play is a small camp on 4

beautiful, wooded acres on the Blue Rock School campus. Our cozy and beloved day camp offers scheduled activities in the morning and choices in the afternoon. We explore art, music, drama, swimming, woodworking, sewing, gardening, hiking, games and sports with mature group leaders that are teachers, artists and educators with many years of experience nurturing children. They love working at our camp and they return year after year. Teenagers work only under adult supervision in our popular CIT program. Everyone helps create and performs in our musical and end-of-season drama, which family and friends are invited to view. Community, warmth and kindness abound.

2170 SAW MILL RIVER ROAD ELMSFORD, NY 10523 (914) 592-3027 Directors: Cheryl Anstett and Debbie Asadoorian annandychildcare@yahoo.com www.acresofadventuresummercamp.com Philosophy: Acres of Adventure Summer Camp

at Ann & Andyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is a one- to nine-week summer camp program with an emphasis on outdoors. We are situated on 5 acres with 15 playgrounds. The outdoor program includes baseball, soccer, climbing wall, bocce ball court, zip line, mini-golf, color games, kickball, basketball, dodgeball, drama, arts and crafts and more. Campers ages 11-14 take fun, recreational, educational and culture trips weekly, including Lake Compounce, Mountain Creek, white water rafting, on and off Broadway theater trips, Liberty Science Center and Maritime Museum. We offer customized schedules, individualized attention and hot lunches daily, as well as barbecue Fridays. All buildings are air-conditioned and we also have a new computer lab. We are licensed by the health department and have experienced counselors. Family owned and operated since 1973. Enrollment: 200 Camper-counselor ratio: Infant/Toddler, 4:1, 5:1; 2s, 6:1; 3s, 7:1; 4s, 8:1; ages 5-14, 10:1 plus CIT Calendar: June 24-Aug. 23 Hours: 7 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Rates vary by age. Call or visit website. Special programs/other: Swimming, bowling, arts and crafts, field sports, family night, carnival day, field trips, computers.

Alcott School Summer Fun Program 27 CRANE ROAD SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 472-4404 Site Director: Maria Francella MFrancella@alcottschool.org 535 BROADWAY DOBBS FERRY, NY 10522 (914) 693-4443 Site director: Sarah Marinelli SMarinelli@alcottschool.org

Enrollment: Limited to 60 campers ages 3-12 Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: Five weeks, June 29-July 31 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (9

a.m. early drop-off); Friday optional Transportation: Director organized carpooling Fees: $480/week (four days), $560/week (five days); $150 full season discount, plus $150 early bird discount

Montessori teachers, assistants and summer counselors. The multicultural program is enriched by early childhood music and nature specialists. Indoor gym is available on rainy days. Classrooms are air-conditioned. Enrollment: 110 children at each location Camper-counselor ratio: Toddlers, 3:1; 3s-5s, 6:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 7 or 14, depending on program. Children may enroll for four or more weeks. Hours: Morning: 9 a.m.-noon; full day: 9 a.m.-2 or 3 p.m.; extended day program: (3s-5s, only in Scarsdale), 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (early drop-off at 7:30 a.m.; late pick-up at 6 p.m.) Transportation: Available by contract with T.L.C. Bus Company for an additional fee Fees: Vary by number of weeks and days child attends.

Ardsley Community Nursery School Summer Camp

Co-Executive Director, Special Education Services: Monica Zenda

21 AMERICAN LEGION DRIVE ARDSLEY, NY 10502 (914) 693-4932 Director: Dr. Gloria Wolpert drwolpert@aol.com

MZenda@alcottschool.org

www.acns.us

www.alcottschool.org

Philosophy: The ACNS camp program consists

Co-Executive Director, Montessori Services: Mandy Price Landivinec

MPrice@alcottschool.org

Philosophy: Our Summer Fun Program is

designed to be an enjoyable summer experience for the child attending for the first time or for the experienced preschooler. The program encourages outdoor play, hands-on science and nature exploration, water play in sprinklers and water tables, open-ended messy art, tricycle riding and group games, among other activities. Each wellequipped classroom is staffed with experienced

of a friendly and inviting atmosphere containing a lovely shady playground and air-conditioned classrooms. Caring staff personalize attention to each child through arts and crafts, science activities, songs, stories and dancing. There is daily outdoor painting, water play and sprinklers. Emphasis is on having fun and making friends to improve language and social skills. We are diaper friendly. Enrollment: 20

Camper-counselor ratio: 4:1 (two teachers

per group) Hours: 9-11:45 a.m. Transportation: No Fees: $1,300 for full six-week season; partial

attendance is possible Special programs/other: Arrangements can

Special programs/other: Exciting excursions for older groups. DIY program for kids 9-12: bread making, fermenting, sprouting, cooking and sewing are just some of the things children will learn. Ask about CIT and Jr. CIT programs.

Camp Hillard 26 ELIZABETH ST. SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 949-8857

be made by request.

Directors: Jon and Jim Libman

Ardsley Day Camp

www.camphillard.com

700 ASHFORD AVE. ARDSLEY, NY 10502 (914) 295-5706 Director: Sean Grady camp@ardsleyschools.org

fun in a safe, active and well-supervised environment with first class facilities and superb staff. Celebrating our 87th year of one-family ownership. Located on 20 beautiful acres in the Edgemont section of Greenburgh. Our program is a balance of outstanding swimming and sports instruction combined with high quality creative and performing arts programs and exciting special events.

www.ardsleydaycamp.org Philosophy: Ardsley Day Camp has programs for

campers pre-k through eighth grade. All programs are run by certified teachers. ADC is fun in the sun for everyone. Enrollment: 250-300 Camper-counselor ratio: 12:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 8 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Vary based on program/enrollment period. Special programs/other: Project Adventure, Discover Technology, sports, arts and crafts, movement, science and nature, music, storyland, swimming in private indoor pool.

Blue Rock Summer Play Camp 110 DEMAREST MILL RD. WEST NYACK NY 10994 (845) 627-0234 Director: Giti Koenig

Summerplaycamp@gmail.com

camp@camphillard.com Philosophy: Campers learn skills while having

Enrollment: 800 Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 20 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door-to-door air-conditioned

school buses driven by professional drivers and supervised by camp staff. Fees: Mini day: 3s and 4s, $6,975; Full day: $8,775 (both programs include transportation and lunch). Any four, five, six or seven weeks also available. Call or visit website for more information. Special programs/other: Activities include swim instruction in seven heated pools, baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, softball, lacrosse, flag football, tennis, gymnastics, horseback, arts and crafts, drawing, painting, jewelry, ceramics, nature, theater, music, zipline, flying squirrel, mini golf, archery, mini sleepaway program, day trips, golf and sports specialization programs for older campers. CONTINUED ON PAGE 40A

PAGE 40A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 v DAY CAMP GUIDE Community Nursery School Summer Session

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39A

Camp Intrepid

343 BROADWAY DOBBS FERRY, NY 10522 (914) 693-9072 Summer Director: Maggie Betz School Director: Linda Jo Platt cnsdobbsferry@aol.com

INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM COMPLEX 12TH AVE. AND 46TH ST. NEW YORK, NY 10036 Director: Dorothy Klein camp@intrepidmuseum.org www.intrepidmuseum.org/campIntrepid.aspx

www.cnsdobbsferry.com

Philosophy: Camp Intrepid 2015, for kids 5-13,

is a multi-week, full-day winter/spring and summer day camp packed with hands-on activities, museum exhibit exploration and interactive weekly themes that include Intrepid Inventors, Space Creations and Spin-offs, Boot Camp and Spy Science. Campers enjoy the fresh air and sunshine on Intrepid’s Flight Deck and Pier 86, creating everything from solar ovens to straw rockets and ship-shape activities like relay races and tug of war. Exploring space in our new Space Pavilion housing the Orbiter, Enterprise and investigating our submarine, Growler, Camp Intrepid is the most unique way to explore, discover and learn. Enrollment: 20/age group (5-7 years; 8-10; 11-13) Camper-counselor ratio: Approximately 7:1 depending on age group Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Extended hours 8:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. available. Calendar: June 15-Aug. 21; may register for one week or multiple sessions Transportation: No, but courtesy use of parking lot for drop-off and pick-up available Fees: Call or check website for fees Special programs/other: Camp Intrepid in winter/spring is a full-day, drop-off, school holiday program that offers creative activities for students ages 5-13 during weeklong school vacations (this year Feb. 16-20, March 16-20 and 23-27, April 6-10).

Camp Ramaquois 30 MOUNTAIN RD. POMONA, NY 10970 (845) 354-1600 Directors: Arthur and Natalie Kessler info@ramaquois.com www.ramaquois.com Philosophy: Ramaquois is a magical camp

where children experience a sense of adventure, meet new challenges, create wonderful memories and make lasting friendships. Camp Ramaquois was formerly a resident camp and is now “a day camp as complete as sleepaway camp.” From adventurous activities to creative arts to athletic activities, boys and girls ages 3-15 experience a traditional day camp program filled with a variety of stimulating activities. Situated on 44 acres in Rockland County, the camp’s facilities include a 5-acre crystalline lake, nine heated swimming pools, a splash park, an aerial adventure park, tennis, basketball, volleyball and pickle ball courts, hockey rinks, ball fields, soccer fields and a nature area with petting zoo. Our many air-conditioned buildings include an indoor gym, indoor dining room and air-conditioned specialty cabins. Group bunks have bathroom facilities and cubbies for campers to store their gear. Enrollment: Ages 5-13; register online Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug 20 Sessions: Full eight weeks or seven-, six- or four-week options Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door-to-door mini school buses servicing Rockland, Bergen, Manhattan, Riverdale, lower Westchester and Greenwich

Philosophy: Children learn by doing, by expe-

driven b certified professional school bus drivers. A bus counselor oversees safety and provides planned activities on the bus. Fees: Call for fees. Tuition includes transporta-

tion, hot lunch, snack, towel service, craft materials and two camp shirts. Camp shirts are uniform. Special programs/other: Exciting Trail Blazer optional trip program for grades 3-10. Optional overnight trips for grades 6-10. Tenth grade leadership program. Visit website or call to set up a personal tour.

Philosophy: Open the door to a delightful and meaningful summer of fun and learning for your bright, curious child at Challenge Camp, an ACA accredited camp in Rye, NY. Courses include 3D printing, cooking, magic, Minecraft, robotics, video production and more like sports and swimming. We are dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for children to realize their intellectual and personal potential. Bus transportation, early/ extended day and Kosher lunch options. Enrollment: 400 Enrollment: Call or visit website

Central Park Dance

Camper-counselor ratio: 10:1

450 CENTRAL PARK AVE. SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 723-2940

July 27-August 14

Directors: Maria Bai and Mario Lastrada

info@centralparkdance.com www.centralparkdance.com Philosophy: Under the artistic direction of

Maria Bai, who is accompanied by a talented and generous staff of teachers, students will receive personal attention in a nurturing environment. At Central Park Dance, summer is sure to be a stimulating and enlightening experience for your children, allowing them to indulge their creativity and gain the confidence of seeing their work produced. Enrollment: Open. Partial and full enrollment

Calendar: Session 1: June 29-July 24; Session 2: Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; 8 a.m. early drop-off to 6

p.m. extended day

Transportation: Bus service Fees: Full seven weeks, $4,700; four weeks: $2,600; three weeks: $2,100. CIT program: seven weeks, $1,400; Session 1 or 2: $800. Optional early drop-off at 8 a.m.: $175 or Session 1 $100, Session 2 $75 or extended day (4-6 p.m.), $500, or Session 1 $275, Session 2 $225. Sibling and referral discounts available.

Christian Pre-School Summer Camp

Calendar: June 29-Aug. 14 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Director: Deacon Sharon Brennen

Camper-counselor ratio: 8:1

Transportation: No

dfchristianpreschool@yahoo.com

Fees: Call for fees. Ballet, tap and jazz shoes are free when you register in full enrollment.

www.dfchristianpreschool.org

Special programs/other: Bus transporta-

centers on the needs of young children ages 2.5-5 years old and is in session for four weeks in July. We accept only 24 campers per summer, which enables us to give nurturing individual attention and careful, safe supervision. Our time is spent both indoors in our spacious preschool rooms and outdoors in our large, shady backyard. Together we participate in arts and crafts, songs, stories and games, sprinklers and water play, our daily ice pop break and much more. Visits are welcome anytime.

tion to see a Broadway show. Voted Westchester Magazine’s annual Best of Westchester editorial pick for best ballet program.

Challenge Camp School of the Holy Child 2225 WESTCHESTER AVE. RYE, NY 10580 MAILING ADDRESS: 1250 CENTRAL PARK AVE. YONKERS, NY 10704 (914) 779-6024 Director: Carole B. Berman

info@challengecamps.com www.challengecamps.com

Concordia Summer Camp CONCORDIA COLLEGE 171 WHITE PLAINS RD. BRONXVILLE, NY 10708 (914) 395-4848 Director: Ceil Warren www.concordiasummercamp.org

DOBBS FERRY LUTHERAN CHURCH 43 ASHFORD AVE. DOBBS FERRY, NY 10522 (914) 693-0026

available.

riencing with all of their senses. Summertime is a time for exploring, discovering and making new friends while running, triking, digging for worms and making sand castles and mud holes. We are a child-centered program where children are free to express their interests and explore their environment within a safe, nurturing place. Our large outdoor area includes sun and shade with a tree house and slide, a large sandbox, swings, a large grassy lawn, life-size boat and a trike riding area for pedaling, scooters, shooting baskets and bouncing balls. A large indoor playroom equipped with a climb-in sandbox and dinosaur digging pit, tunnels and slides and fully equipped preschool classrooms are available for rainy days. Enrollment: 40 children entering 3- and 4-yearold classes in September Camper-counselor ratio: 4:1 Calendar: July 6- 31 Hours: 9:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $950 for four weeks, $475 for first two weeks, $475 for second two weeks. Registration fee $40.

Philosophy: Christian Pre-School Summer Camp

Enrollment: 24 kids 2.5-5 Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: July 1-26 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $450; $100 deposit must accompany registration form

Philosophy: Concordia Summer Camp offers

an amazing variety of enrichment, music, art and sports programs for early childhood (ages 3-5) and grades 1-9. The camp strives to provide your child with an exceptional summer experience by fostering a life-long love of learning and promoting enthusiasm for physical activity through sports. Basketball Camp is taught by college coaches in the spacious Meyer Athletic Center. The Sports Camp for early childhood (ages 3-5) offers ageappropriate sports activities and grades 1-9 offers soccer, baseball, tennis, basketball, dodgeball, floor hockey and more. The Conservatory of Music offers exceptional programs in musical theatre, piano, violin, guitar, vocal arts, chamber music and band bash. The OSilas Art Studio offers World Art classes. The Early Childhood Enrichment Program offers music, art, science, literacy, indoor and outdoor play. The Enrichment Program for grades 1-9 offers exciting classes for webpage design, forensics, science, cooking, robotics, dance, art and more. Enrollment: Early Childhood, 120; Enrichment grades 1-9, 200; Sports Camp grades 1-9, 400 Camper-counselor ratio: Early Childhood, 5:1; grades 1-9, 10:1 Calendar: Early Childhood Mini Camp, June 15-26; Main Camp: June 29-Aug. 7; Early Childhood Enrichment Extended Program: Aug. 10-21; CONTINUED ON PAGE 41A

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 41A

The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 v DAY CAMP GUIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 40A

Basketball Camp: Aug. 10-13 Hours: Morning programs: 9 a.m.-noon; afternoon programs, noon-2 p.m., noon-3 p.m. and noon-5 p.m. Early drop-off and late pick-up are available from 8-8:45 a.m. and 5:15-6 p.m. on a daily basis. Transportation: No Fees: See website. Early registration, sibling and package discounts are available. Special programs/other: New this year: water inflatable fun Fridays.

Congregation Kol Ami Sun and Fun 252 SOUNDVIEW AVE. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10606 (914) 949-4717 EXT. 107 Director: Nan Blank njbtt@aol.com www.nykolami.org Philosophy: A summer program for 2s, 3s and

4s. Groups are staffed with our own experienced early childhood staff. We have two well-equipped outdoor shaded playgrounds and in case of inclement weather, a large air-conditioned indoor play space. Both programs include arts and crafts, music, nature, fine and gross motor play and water play. The 3s and 4s enjoy additional specialists who teach drama, art, gardening and soccer, and a weekly Shabbat celebration. Enrollment: 2s-4s Camper-counselor ratio: 3s and 4s 5:1 Calendar: June 22-July 31 Hours: 2s: children come with a parent or caregiver Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday, 9:30-11 a.m.; 3s: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m.-noon, and Wednesday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with lunch; 4s: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.1 p.m. (lunch is served Wednesday). Transportation: No Fees: 2s, $700; 3s, $1,950; 4s, $2,450

Dance & Theater Arts Studios 145 PALISADE ST. #376 DOBBS FERRY NY 10522 (914) 231-9179 Director: Janetta Betz janettabetz@optimum.net www.dancetheaterarts.com Philosophy: A process-oriented performing

arts school where children learn how to achieve excellence through self-discipline and the mastery of technique. Experience the joy of achievement with our unique summer camp programs at affordable prices. All camps include training in acting, voice and dance. In addition, morning sessions with art, puppetry and set design and afternoon sessions with a custom-made musical revue with final performance. We welcome and encourage students of all “ages and stages” into our positive and gentle learning environment. Enrollment: 12/session Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar/hours: Morning session: Music, Art & Movement for ages 3-7, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-noon for eight weeks from June 22-Aug. 14 (enroll for one or more weeks). Afternoon session: Broadway/Glee Musical Revue for ages 6-12, Monday-Friday from 2-5 p.m. from July 6-17, July 20-31, Aug 3-14 (enroll for two weeks). Transportation: No

Fees: $250/week

Calendar: June 10-July 26 (choose from one-

dance, voice and acting classes. Private lessons available in June, July and August. Call for info/ requests.

seven weeks) Hours: 9:05 a.m.-noon (3- to 5-year-olds); 9:2511:25 a.m. (2-year-olds) Fees: $185/week

Elmwood Day Camp

French Immersion Camp

900 DOBBS FERRY RD. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10607 (914) 592-6121 Directors: Hillari Boritz and Gregg Licht summer@elmwooddaycamp.com www.elmwooddaycamp.com

FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF NEW YORK 111 LARCHMONT AVE. LARCHMONT, NY 10538 (914) 413-3665 Director: Agnes Tounkara camps@fasny.org

Philosophy: Our mission is for each child to

www.fasny.org/After-School Programs

Special programs/other: TBA once weekly

discover, celebrate and be who he or she is supposed to be. Consistent caring relationships and a comprehensive activity program are essential to achieve our mission. Enrollment: 450-500 campers Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 20 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door to door in small yellow school buses Fees: Four-week session, $5,400; eight-week session, $8,300 Special programs/other: Electives, performing arts, athletics, Red Cross swimming, arts and crafts, field trips, special event days.

Five Corners Summer Program 18 FARRAGUT AVE. HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, NY 10706 (914) 478-2334 Director: Mary Cahill

fivecornersprogram@gmail.com www.hastingspreschool.com Philosophy: Come join us this summer for a

fun time. Our home-away-from-home, nurturing environment will enrich and secure your child’s journey through his or her early childhood years. Activities include circle time, story time and indoor play time with a center-like approach. Outdoor fun, water play, sprinklers, boat floating, bubbles, bicycle wash, clay, music, dramatic play, riding toys, games and more. Special events will include music and movement with our music teacher, dance with our accredited dance teacher and police officer and fire truck visits. Other fun days include luau day, crazy hat day, pirate theme with treasure hunts and lots more. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: n/a

Philosophy: Using years of excellence in bilingual

education, we have designed a unique program where children will learn French by doing. Research shows that an early start, teachers with native fluency, total immersion and practical experience are essential steps on the path to language proficiency. From experience we know that, if the enjoyment is there, the learning of the language will naturally take place. That’s why our program revolves around fun, hands-on activities led by native French instructors that will stimulate the children’s conversation skills but also open them to the French and Francophone cultures. We welcome preschoolers as young as 3 years old, half day or full day, as long as they are potty-trained and ready for this wonderful adventure. In small groups, the children will hear and speak French all day through fun activities that will respect their rhythm. Quiet time is also scheduled. Our program for children in grades 1-5 will stimulate their conversation skills while exposing them to fun and unique activities such as French theater, music in French with our artist-in-residence, cooking, science and technology projects, dance and yoga, art, sports and more. There is one hour of French class per day for all campers. Enrollment: Ages 3-13 Camper-counselor ratio: 8:1 Calendar: June 22-July 24 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with optional extended day Transportation: No Fees: Half day, $280; full day, $500.

Future Stars Summer Camps SUNY PURCHASE COLLEGE 735 ANDERSON HILL RD. PURCHASE, NY 10577 (914) 273-8500 Director: Jordan Snider Jordan@fscamps.com www.fscamps.com

Philosophy: Weekly day sports and specialty

camps for boys and girls ages 4-16. Campers choose from the following: tennis, soccer, multisports, baseball, lacrosse, basketball, circus arts, magic, diving, rising stars, cheerleading, field hockey, softball, football, volleyball, horseback riding, swim, S.T.E.M. education and academics. Each program includes three to four hours of specific training in the chosen sport, as well as supervised swimming. Our staff is a highly trained team of professionals, and limited enrollment ensures that they get to know each camper’s individual needs. We encourage our campers to play with confidence, enthusiasm and a genuine love of the game. Enrollment: 600 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Weekly June-August Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door to door transportation

available Fees: Call for fees Special programs/other: Lunch option

available.

Greenburgh Nature Center Summer Camps 99 DROMORE ROAD SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 723-3470 Director: Travis Brady

tbrady@greenburghnaturecenter.org www.greenburghnaturecenter.org Philosophy: GNC offers many different camp

options: • Nature Navigators (half day camps):

Each day offers different activities, including live animal interaction, nature crafts, outdoor nature exploration, indoor and outdoor games, and so much more. Snack is included. • Critter Camp: Celebrate the wild in your child at Critter Camp, where kids focus on making both human and animal friends. Campers go behind the scenes and into the forest for a hands-on introduction to the extraordinary world of animals and nature. They also get a chance to help care for our resident animals and explore the lives of our wild forest friends. Lunch must be sent daily or you may purchase a hot lunch from California Pizza Kitchen for an additional fee. • Survival Camp: Wilderness survival skills enhance children’s ability to feel comfortable and confident in the natural world. Activities such as fire building, shelter construction, tracking techniques, plant identification, and camouflage are highlights of the camp. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Nature Navigators: Monday-Thursday, July 13-16, July 20-23, Aug. 3-6, Aug. 17-20 and Aug. 24-27; Critter Camp: Monday-Friday, July 6-10 and Aug. 10-14; Survival Camp: MondayFriday, July 27-31. Hours: Nature Navigators: morning session, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., afternoon session, 1-4 p.m.; Critter Camp: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Survival Camp: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Nature Navigator fee per session: $190/ child plus $85 membership fee; Critter Camp fee per session: $360/child plus $85 membership fee; Survival Camp fee per session: $360/child plus $85 membership fee. CONTINUED ON PAGE 42A

PAGE 42A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 v DAY CAMP GUIDE • Camp Gadol (includes Camp Xtreme):

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41A

Give your child an unforgettable summer at Camp Gadol, where children 2-13 will be introduced to a variety of professionally led activities and weekly special events. Camp Gadol encourages children to spread their creative wings, try new skills and stretch their imaginations in our weatherproof facility. Camp Xtreme provides campers 10-13 with a complete camp experience close to home with special session enhancements.

Happi Nest Day Camp 25 NORTH BROADWAY IRVINGTON, NY 10533 (914) 591-5588 Director: Deena Goldsmith happinestirvington@gmail.com www.happi-nest.com

• Summer Arts Center (SAC): The joy of creative expression is what this unique program is all about. Developed for the creative and independent child (entering grades 2-8), SAC is the only program of its kind in lower Westchester which provides an opportunity for campers to focus on art, dance or theatre as a major while taking electives in all disciplines. SAC provides a noncompetitive, nurturing atmosphere in which children are encouraged to explore their creativity. SAC is a full-day, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. program.

Philosophy: For 34 years, our camp has af-

forded young campers a bucolic, relaxed, friendly and safe camp experience with activities and supervision needs for ages 2.5 to 5. At least one staff member for every three campers makes a unique and safe experience on two fully fenced in grassy acres. Enrollment: Approximately 50 campers Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Calendar: June 25-Aug. 5 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; extended afternoons 12:30-2 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Call regarding fees Special programs/other: Daily music specialist. Twice weekly special events (carnival, Olympics, scavenger hunt and more).

Harvey Cavalier Summer Camp 260 JAY ST. KATONAH, NY 10536 (914) 232-0581 Director: Chris Del Campo cavaliercamp@harveyschool.org www.harveycavaliercamp.org Philosophy: Our six-week summer program

offers kids ages 4-14 a chance to explore their interests and talents in an enriching and nurturing environment where fun abounds. Electives include fine arts, crafts, theater, dance, music, swimming, ice skating, sports, science and more. Enrollment: Pre-k through first grade (Little Cavs), 40; grades 2-9, 230 Camper to staff ratio: 3:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 7 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (10 a.m.-2 p.m. option for Little Cavs) Transportation: Bus routes limited to those living in the Armonk/Mt. Kisco/Chappaqua and Briarcliff/ Millwood areas at an extra fee Fees: $2,300 for Little Cavs (extended day options available); $3,900 for grades 2-9. Fee includes lunch.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School Summer Arts Program 25 SCHOOL LANE SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 723-1169 Director: Joe Piscitelli hb@hbms.org www.hbms.org Philosophy: The program offers a stimulating,

challenging and enjoyable summer experience in music, visual arts and theater for second-10thgraders. Lessons, ensembles and weekly concert performances. Basic morning program can be combined with a variety of extended day options, such as world drumming, musical theater workshop, chamber music or jazz workshops, wind serenade, composers corner, music tech lab and HB Rocks! guitar ensemble.

Enrollment: 85-110 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 29-July 31 Hours: 9 a.m.-noon for basic program; extended

day options to 2 or 5 p.m.

Transportation: No Fees: Morning only, $1,630; extended day, $2,315; afternoon only, $860; afternoon plus HB rocks!, $1,685; afternoon plus musical theater workshop, $2,490; extended day plus HB Rocks!, $3,140; extended day plus musical theater workshop, $3,945; HB rocks! only, $825; musical theater workshop only, $1,630 Special programs/other: Scholarships available. Five percent discount if enrolled before March 31.

Hole-In-One Junior Golf Camp DUNWOODIE AND SPRAIN LAKE GOLF COURSES, YONKERS; HUDSON HILLS, OSSINING; MAPLE MOOR, WHITE PLAINS; SAXON WOODS, SCARSDALE; AND MOHANSIC, YORKTOWN HEIGHTS (914) 231-4673 Director: Beth Bricker

babc@westchestergov.com www.parks.westchestergov.com/children-camps Philosophy: Young people ages 10-17 can learn

the fundamentals of golf and hone their skills under the direction of top PGA pros in Westchester. Enrollment: Varies Camper-counselor ratio: Varies Hours: Vary Transportation: No Fees: $50/session

Hudson Country Day Camp 340 QUAKER RIDGE RD. NEW ROCHELLE, NY 10804 (914) 636-6202 Director: Meghan Flaherty

info@hudsoncountry.org

www.hudsoncountry.org Philosophy: Summer fun in a safe, nurturing

environment.

Enrollment: 150 Camper-counselor ratio: 2s, 5:1; 3s-8s, 6:1;

9s-11s, 8:1

Calendar: June 22-Aug. 14 Hours: 2s, 9 a.m.-noon; 3s-5s, 9 a.m.-noon or 9

a.m.-4 p.m.; 6s-11s, 9.a.m.-4 p.m.; extended hours available 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Transportation: Optional Fees: Call for information Special programs/other: Special activities include swimming, sports, science, gardening, crafts, nature, karate, gymnastics and dance.

Irvington Summer Day Camp

• LIT/CIT Experience (Leader/Counselor in Training): Leadership training and “pre-job”

experience is what you will gain from our unique LIT/CIT program (available for 14- and 15-yearolds). LIT/CITs are paired with counselors to learn how to supervise and interact with campers or with a specialist to learn how to lead an activity. There will be a weekly community service component as well as LIT/CIT-only group activities and a weekly trip.

MAIN STREET SCHOOL IRVINGTON, NY 10533 (914) 591-7736

• Toward Tomorrow: The Toward Tomorrow program provides children 3-5 years with developmental needs a nurturing learning and recreational summer experience. We collaborate with Camp Gadol to give children ages 3-12 years with special learning needs inclusion opportunities.

Director: Maureen DePaoli

• Dance Intensive (June 29-July 31): The

mdepaoli@irvingtonny.gov www.irvingtonny.gov

Philosophy: An affordable camp that will

provide a variety of activities and special events. The camp staff will provide a safe and fun environment for all children. Great staff, great trips and great fun! Enrollment: Ages 3 through eighth grade Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 3s, 4s, k-1; 8:1

2nd-4th grades; 10:1 6th-8th grades

Calendar: July 6 - Aug. 7 Hours: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; extended hours for k-8,

1:30-3:30 p.m. (additional fee)

Transportation: No Fees: Call or visit website for fees and complete

information

Special programs/other: Recreation swim-

ming on Mondays for grades 1-8. Spray pool on Mondays for kindergartners. One off-site trip per week/per grade for K-8. Specialists include arts/ crafts, music, nature, sports, theater. Special events include carnival, color wars, Irvington’s Got Talent, hip-hop, barbecue and fire department visits. A preschool program is available for 3-4-year-old residents. Campers bring a snack/ lunch daily. Early bird dates for registration are Wednesdays, April 8, 15 and 22 from 4-7 p.m. and Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Information subject to change.

serious dance student with some experience will enjoy a comprehensive curriculum of dance and dance-related classes taught by professionals. Dancers attend camp daily, 10:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m. and may choose a two-, three-, four- or five-week session. The program culminates with an in-studio showcase on July 31. Space is limited to 16 students.

Camper-counselor ratio: Varies by program/

age

Calendar: June 29-Aug. 14 Hours: full day 9 am-4 pm. Other options: 9 am-

noon, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Early arrival/ after care available (additional fee)

Transportation: No Fees: Range from $1,770-$5,225 (some programs include lunch).

JCC on the Hudson Day Camps 371 SOUTH BROADWAY TARRYTOWN, NY 10591 (914) 366-7898 Country Day Camp Director: Colleen Malone, colleen.malone@jcconthehudson.org Country Day Integrated Director: Mindy

Cohen, Mindy.cohen@jcconthehudson.org

Little Friends Day Camp Director: Melissa

JCC of Mid-Westchester Summer Camps 999 WILMOT ROAD SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 472-3300 www.jccmw.org/kids-and-family/summer-camps Philosophy: The JCC offers several different

camps:

Deierlein, Melissa.deierlein@jcconthehudson.org www.jcconthehudson.org

Philosophy: Camp the way it should be! Camp-

ers play, explore, make friends and create memories that last a lifetime. Country Day Camp (Ages 5-15), at the extraordinary 95-acre wooded Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds, has it all — a three-pool aquatic complex, ball fields, archery range, sports court, amphitheater, boating lake, hiking trails, CONTINUED ON PAGE 43A

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 43A

The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 v DAY CAMP GUIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42A

petting zoo, covered shelters, infirmary and more. From campfires to theme days, our campers can’t get enough. A caring, experienced staff keeps safety and security their highest priority. Country Day’s unique Integrated Division offers an inclusive Country Day experience for ages 5-16, with mild to moderate developmental and autism spectrum disorders. At Little Friends Day Camp @ The JCC, our youngest campers (ages 2-5) also enjoy an authentic camp experience, playing outdoors and indoors in the A/C, and enjoying age appropriate specialties (science, karate, art, water play, etc., plus day trips and off-site swim for ages 4-and-over). When the regular camp season ends, the JCC offers a choice of Summer Doesn’t End mini camps. • Little Friends Day Camp @ The J (ages 2 -5) • Country Day Camp (ages 5-15) • Country Day Camp Integrated (special needs, ages 5-16); Interns (ages 14-21) • JCC-on-the-Go (grades k-6) mini camp: A

week of day trip adventures

• 8th Week Specialty mini-camp (k-10):

explore a new specialty daily at Country Day

www.spearmanjuniorgolf.com Philosophy: Premium instruction and a positive

learning experience are the foundations to golf success. We work on all aspects of the game — fullswing, short game, putting, on-course strategy and play — as well as utilizing the latest in technology. Enrollment: Ages 6-16 Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 8-Aug. 28 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Fees: $1,150/week. Sign up for one week minimum. Multi-week, multi-golfer and early registration discounts available. Special programs/other: Winter indoor program: running now. Max six per session. Spring program outdoors: Commences April 1. Many sign-up options running Monday-Friday 4-6 p.m. and weekends 2-6 p.m. Minimum one day per week. Two-hour classes. Pee Wees: Ages 4-7, Wednesdays and Sundays. Join in any time as long as space is available. One-hour classes.

Mohawk Day Camp

Enrollment: Varies

200 OLD TARRYTOWN RD. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10603 (914) 949-2635 Directors: Ken, Barbara and Steve Schainman info@campmohawk.com

Camper-counselor ratio: Varies

www.campmohawk.com

• Gymnastics Week mini-camp (girls 5-and-over, with some experience) at the JCC

Calendar: season June 29-August 14 (mini-

camps August 17-21) Hours: Vary. Extended hours available. Transportation: RT from JCC to Campgrounds included; door to door extra fee Fees: Call for fees

Mazel Tots Summer Stars SCARSDALE SYNAGOGUE-TEMPLES TREMONT AND EMANU-EL 2 OGDEN RD. SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 723-3001 Directors: Jody Glassman and Jocelyn Gross mazeltots@aol.com Philosophy: At Summer Stars we provide children ages 18 months-5 years old with an environment which will encourage their curiosity and help them to grow socially, emotionally and physically. Enrollment: n/a Calendar: June 29-Aug. 14 Hours: Toddlers, 9-11:15 a.m.; half day, 9 a.m.noon; full day, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Transportation: No Fees: Toddlers, $1,650; half day, $2,475; full day, $3,175 Special programs/other: Activities include sports, water play, art, music, soccer, storyteller, puppetry, fitness, cooking, nature and more.

Mitchell Spearman Junior Golf Summer Camp DORAL ARROWWOOD 975 ANDERSON HILL RD. RYE BROOK, NY 10573 (800) 733-1653 Director: Joanna Dove info@mitchellspearman.com

Philosophy: Mohawk Day Camp is committed

to enriching children’s lives through friendship, learning and play. For over 80 years, generations of campers ages 3-13 have had unforgettable summers mentored by remarkable, mature staff in an environment of inclusiveness and exploration. Leadership Training program available for ages 14-15. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor Ratio: 3:1 Calendar: Pre-camp, June 10-21; Main Camp, June 29-Aug. 21 Hours: Full day, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (ages 3-13); mini day: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (ages 3-entering kindergarten); half day: 9 a.m.-noon (ages 3-4) Transportation: Door-to-door on air-conditioned buses with counselor, included in tuition. Fees: Call for fees Special programs/other: Mohawk’s 40-acre site features a year-round farm, 23 sports fields and courts, eight heated pools, eight craft/hobby areas, ropes course and climbing walls and much more. In addition to traditional sports, crafts, performance, nature and adventure activities, campers enjoy ageappropriate elective choices such as circus skills,

sports intensives, rocketry, doll making, songwriting, guitar lessons, dog training and more. Staff members include more than 120 local teachers, many from Mohawk’s own nursery school/kindergarten/first grade school-year program. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit website or call office.

Music Conservatory of Westchester’s Music & Arts Summer Program 216 CENTRAL AVE. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10606 (914) 761-3900 Director: Sarah Wetherbee info@musiced.org www.scarsdalemusic.org Philosophy: MCW’s signature summer program

for ages 5-11 engages your child while providing the educational experience you’re looking for. This fun enjoyable program includes instrumental ensembles and instruction, singing, acting, musical theatre, composing and more, taught by our fabulous faculty. Enrollment: Open Camper-counselor Ratio: n/a Calendar: June 29-July 10 (closed July 4), July 13-July 24, July 27-Aug. 7, Aug. 10- 21 Hours: Monday-Friday, half day or full day; early drop-off and extended day options Transportation: No Fees: Call or visit website Special programs/other: Take advantage of our convenient “mix and match” schedule. Sign up for two, four, six or eight weeks. With early dropoff and extended day options, Summer Music & Arts is the most flexible program in the county.

MVP Basketball Camp 29 HOMESIDE LANE WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605 (914) 946-1231 Director: Noel Muyskens nmuyskens@mvpbasketballcamp.org www.mvpbasketballcamp.org Philosophy: The camp teaches boys and girls

from 6-16 the fundamentals of basketball, plus teamwork, leadership, goal-setting and dedication. Enrollment: 250/week Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 29-July 10 in Bedford, July 13Aug. 7 in White Plains Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; early drop-off and extended hours available Transportation: Carpooling arranged Fees: Vary by week Special programs/other: Camp features high school coaches and college players as instructors.

My First Camp at Gymboree Play and Music of Scarsdale 450 CENTRAL AVE. SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (LOCATED IN THE SCARSDALE PARK MALL) (866) 477-3700 (MAIN OFFICE) (914) 472-0192 (GYM DIRECT) Director: Shane Bland

scarsdaleny@gymboreeclasses.com www.gymboreeclasses.com/scarsdaleny.site

Philosophy: Gymboree’s My First Camp is a two-

hour and 45-minute drop-off camp for children ages 3-5. We specialize in making the camp experience fun, stimulating and extremely positive. Children can attend from one-five days a week for 4-12 weeks. This is the perfect first camp separation experience or continuation of pre-k activities through the summer. Our camp focuses on social skills, physical play, sports, art, science/math, theatre, music and imaginative play. Enrollment: 12/class Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 8-Aug. 28, closed July 4 Hours: 9-11:45 a.m. or 12:30-3:15 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Call for information.

The Nature Place Day Camp 285 HUNGRY HOLLOW RD. CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY 10977 (845) 356-6477 Director: Ed Bieber camp@thenatureplace.com www.thenatureplace.com Philosophy: Nature-oriented and non-compet-

itive.

Enrollment: 250 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 7 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Bus service from throughout

Westchester (included in the cost of tuition) Fees: $5,330 for six weeks.

New York Rock Academy 225 NORTH GREELEY AVE. CHAPPAQUA, NY 10514 (914) 238-3123 DAY CAMP LOCATION: MUSIC IN CHAPPAQUA 225 NORTH GREELEY AVE. CHAPPAQUA, NY 10514 Director: Janet Angier mail@musicinchappaqua.com www.newyorkrockacademy.com Philosophy: New York Rock Academy is a spe-

cialty program designed to maximize the potential of every student. Students ages 8 and up form groups alongside those of similar experience and immediately begin making music. Beginners will find themselves performing complete arrangements of their favorite songs by the end of a single session. Advanced players will have an opportunity to fine-tune their skills, learning subtle and not-so-subtle lessons about instrumental or vocal technique and the organization of a rock ensemble. The motivating force at New York Rock Academy is excitement. Regardless of level, all students will be encouraged to explore the music they truly love. Our experienced staff provides a stimulating, fun atmosphere. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 4:1 Calendar: Weekly sessions run from June 29Aug. 21 Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $750/weekly session; $75 registration fee (this fee is waived for matriculating students). CONTINUED ON PAGE 44A

PAGE 44A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 v DAY CAMP GUIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43A

NYGKA Black Belt Academy 558 WARBURTON AVE. HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, NY 10706 (914) 478-0508 Director: Shihan Jim Chillemi NYGKA@aol.com www.nygka.com Philosophy: NYGKA’s mission is to enhance

the life of every single student by providing them with the skills necessary for life. These skills include overall physical fitness, speed and agility, self-protection, confidence, discipline, respect and awareness. We introduced our Mission Bully Proof program to many of our students, their parents, neighbors and friends, and will continue to do so throughout the year and beyond. This program seeks to bring further awareness to problems and circumstances associated with bullying. We hope to help not only our students and their families, but the local community, as well. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Beginner, Blue and Yellow Belts: July 6-10; Green, Purple and Brown Belts: July 13-17; All level Black Belts: June 29-July 3 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $600-$700/week; lunch, beverages and snacks included.

On Hudson Dance Studio Inc. 558 WARBURTON AVE. HASTINGS ON HUDSON, NY 10706 (914) 478-0508 Director: Andrea Chillemi, onhudson1@aol.com Onhudsondance.com Philosophy: Learn various styles of dance and

have fun while getting your body in awesome shape. Students will be able to sample various styles of dance taught by our professional staff in an air-conditioned, sunny, spacious studio overlooking the Hudson River. Ten years and older with prior dance experience required. Enrollment: 20 Camper-counselor ratio: 10:1 Calendar: July 20-24 Hours: 10:30a.m.-3 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $450

The Play Group Theatre ONE NORTH BROADWAY WHITE PLAINS, NY 10601 (914) 946-4433 Director: Jill Abusch jill@playgroup.org www.playgroup.org Philosophy: PGT Summer Theatre provides an

artistically dynamic, creatively challenging summer experience, within a supportive, nurturing and collaborative environment. Choose from six-week MainStage and three-week options for the Teen Conservatory (ages 14-and-over), the Young Actors’ Ensemble (ages 11-13), the PGT Kids (ages 7-10) and Little Theatre (ages 4-6). Classes vary each day, including acting, musical theatre, dance and movement, Shakespeare, stage combat, on camera and more. The day also includes rehearsal with each program culminating in a performance. A trip

to Broadway, an improv workshop with Chicago City Limits and weekly special days complete the PGT Summer experience. One-week improv and new design/tech programs are also available. PGT’s professional staff is dedicated to providing an artistic haven for children and teens of all ages and levels of experience. Get in on the act! Enrollment: 100 Camper-counselor Ratio: 5:1 Calendar: MainStage: July 6-Aug. 14; first threeweek session, July 6-24; second three-week session, July 27-Aug. 14; one-week session, July 27-July 31. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Little Theatre, Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) Transportation: No Fees: Vary by program.

Purchase College Summer Youth and Precollege Programs in the Arts

RiverArts Camps

Enrollment: 18 children 3-5 years old

P.O. BOX 60 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, NY 10706 RIVERARTS.ORG

Calendar: Ongoing all summer

SummerArts 2015 Workshops for Kids FIRST REFORMED CHURCH 24 FARRAGUT AVENUE HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, NY 10706 (914) 412-5120 OR (914) 476-2321 Director: Helen Elliott summerarts4kids@riverarts.org RiverArts Jazz Camp 2015

DOBBS FERRY HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC SUITE DOBBS FERRY, NY 10522 (914) 412-5120 Directors: Ron Vincent and Nancy Kennedy musicprogram@riverarts.org RiverArts SummerMusic 2015

735 ANDERSON HILL RD. PURCHASE, NY 10577 (914) 251-6500 Director: Kelly Jackson youth.pre.college@purchase.edu

DOBBS FERRY HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC SUITE DOBBS FERRY, NY 10522 (914) 412-5120 Director: Kate Ashby musicprogram@riverarts.org Philosophy: RiverArts is offering three programs:

www.purchase.edu/youth

• SummerArts 2015 Workshops for Kids:

Philosophy: Children ages 9-18 will work with

practicing artists and educators in the studios, stages and classrooms of Purchase College to develop confidence, creativity and enjoyment of the visual and performing arts. Programs in photography, visual arts, filmmaking, creative writing, acting, comic drawing, fashion design, songwriting, vocal, architecture, game and app design and Shakespeare are offered. Enrollment: Varies by program Camper-counselor ratio: Approximately 10:1 Calendar: Begins June 29; dates vary by program Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; early drop-off and extended day options (9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) available at an additional cost Transportation: No Fees: $1,200-$2,700, vary by program; early registration/additional sibling discounts available.

Purchase Day Camp 3095 PURCHASE ST. PURCHASE, NY 10577 (914) 949-2636 Director: Jim Kelly office@purchasehouse.com www.PurchaseDayCamp.com Philosophy: Purchase Day Camp’s high energy,

positive impact activities build self-esteem. Our broad-based program includes swimming, sports, art, music, science and much more. Growth in every specialty is nurtured by our sensitive, enthusiastic and encouraging team of teachers. Discover why our campers say “I just LOVE it here!” Enrollment: About 350 Camper-counselor ratio: 4:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 21 Hours: Junior Camp 3s and 4s: full day 9 a.m.-4 p.m., mini-day 9 a.m.-1:45 p.m., half day 9 a.m.-12:10 p.m.; Senior Camp: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Mini-K (kindergarten only): 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Transportation: Busing available Fees: Base full-day fee: $3,750/two weeks; Mini-K fee: $2,700/two weeks; half-day fee: $1,450/two weeks. Special programs/other: Little Sprouts Mini Camp for 3s, 4s and children entering kindergarten runs June 8-26. Sign up for one, two or all three weeks.

Now in its 32nd season, RiverArts will be offering SummerArts 2015, a series of multi-disciplinary workshops for children entering grades 3-9, who have a keen interest in the arts. The workshops are staffed by artist-educators committed to their craft and to working with young people. The atmosphere is always friendly, creative and fun. • RiverArts Jazz Camp 2015: Students will have a chance to immerse themselves in music, playing in ensembles with dedicated peers and learning from some of New York City’s finest jazz artists. • RiverArts SummerMusic 2015: Private Lessons in piano, strings, trumpet, guitar, voice and percussion taught by nationally renowned faculty at convenient after camp hours. Enrollment: SummerArts: 40 students/week. Jazz Camp: Maximum 16 students/week Camper-counselor ratio: SummerArts: Four artist-educators per day, rotates throughout the week, and five counselors/week. Jazz Camp: Five professional jazz musician/educators, rotating throughout week. Calendar: SummerArts: Aug. 10-14, 17-21 and 2428 (come for one week, two weeks, or all three). Jazz Camp: July 27-31 and Aug. 3-7 (come for one week or both weeks). SummerMusic: June 29-Aug. 14. Hours: SummerArts: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Jazz Camp: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. SummerMusic: Lessons scheduled when student is available. Fees: SummerArts: One week: $400, any two weeks: $750, all three weeks: $1,000. Jazz Camp: One week: $500, both weeks: $900. SummerMusic: Fees: $35/30-minute lesson, $50/45-minute lesson, $65/60-minute lesson. Special programs/other: Ten percent discount if paid by May 1 for SummerArts 2015 Workshops for Kids and RiverArts Jazz Camp 2015.

The Rivertown Preschool Program 78 MAIN ST. HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, NY 10706 (914) 478-6181 Director: Pat Palfy Patpalfy@verizon.net Philosophy: Creative arts preschool where creativity and learning go hand-in-hand.

Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Upon request Special programs/other: Music, dance, gym-

nastics, water play, sprinklers, pottery and more.

Scarsdale Ballet Studio Summer Intensive and Mini-Camp 696R WHITE PLAINS RD. SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 725-8754 Director: Diana White scarsdaleballetstudio@verizon.net www.scarsdaleballetstudio.com Philosophy: Three new summer programs of-

fered. A daily program for dancers ages 8-9 (June 29-July 10) and ages 10-12 (July 13-31) who wish to focus in-depth on ballet technique and repertory in a collaborative and creative atmosphere. Studio and guest faculty teach classes in ballet, pointe, variations, character dance, choreography, body conditioning and theater dance. Morning mini-camp for ages 3-7 (July 6-31) directed by Maria Posey explores different classical ballets through dance and crafts. Our August Workshop Program for dancers 13-and-over (Aug. 10-28) highlights three distinct styles: Balanchine, classical and contemporary, with renowned guest teachers. Call for more information. Enrollment: July camps: 16/level, August: 25/ class Camper-counselor ratio 10:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 28 Hours: July Intensive: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Mini-camp: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon; August workshop: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: See website.

Sew Happy Threads Camp & Last Minute Camp DAMIANO RECREATION CENTER 281 MIDLAND AVE. RYE, NY 10580 (917) 885 7716 Director: Kim Mulcahy kim@sewhappyusa.net www.sewhappyusa.net Philosophy: These are boutique camps tailor

made to inspire potential fashion designers and fashionistas out there. The difference between the Sew Happy Threads Camp and other fashion-type camps is that we actually teach the kids how to design and sew wearable garments. The kids who attend our camps make great new friends and connections and often move on to advanced sewing classes and workshops with Sew Happy. At Threads Camp, the kids work through fun design challenges, sometimes in groups and sometimes alone to create unique garments and they plan and orchestrate their own fashion show on the last day. At Last Minute Camp we have fun making our super cute sausage dog skirt, pencil case and yummy scrummy pillow. We offer the camp to ages 8-17 and then we group the kids by age with age appropriate projects and assignments. Enrollment: Enroll on-line Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 CONTINUED ON PAGE 45A

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 45A

The Rivertowns Enterprise 2015 v DAY CAMP GUIDE Thornton-Donovan School Summer Challenge

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44A Calendar: Aug. 17-21, Aug 31-Sept 2 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

100 OVERLOOK CIRCLE NEW ROCHELLE, NY 10804 (914) 632-8836 Director: Annemarie Licini alicini@aol.com

Transportation: No Fees: Threads $500, Last Minute Camp $350 Special programs/other: Sew Happy is also offering three weeks of sewing camps at CampInTouch At Greenwich Academy (http://www. greenwichacademy.org) during the month of June. We also offer workshops, classes, camps and after school clubs year-round.

www.td.edu Philosophy: The Summer Challenge begins

Squire Advantage and Squire Sports Academies MARIA REGINA HIGH SCHOOL HARTSDALE, NY 10530 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 885 SLEEPY HOLLOW, NY 10591 (914) 328-3798 Director: Matt Davanzo squirecamps@gmail.com www.Squirecamps.com Philosophy: Squire Camps, set in Hartsdale on

the Maria Regina High School Campus in the heart of Westchester, is celebrating its 42nd season and offers unique and varied opportunities for children ages 5-15. Squire Advantage is a totally individualized program for the inquisitive child who wishes to explore and expand his or her interests. Advantage Primary, grades K-3, and Advantage Choice, grades 4-9, enable campers to custom design their own schedule by choosing three morning and two afternoon courses from a selection of over 50 offerings, which include digital photography, robotics, rocketry, polymer clay, sports, swimming, Legos, cooking, magic, science and many more. Squire also offers a tennis academy and an all-sports academy. Squire Sports programs provides an outstanding competitive program for athletes who are interested in improving their skills and having fun while doing so. Early drop-off from 8 a.m. on, hot lunch and a morning snack, as well as a t-shirt and water bottle, are included in all programs. Classrooms and dining hall are air-conditioned. Transportation and extended day are available. Instructors are New York State certified teachers. Enrollment: 200 for Advantage, 50 for Sports Academies Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 or better Calendar: June 29-Aug. 14 Hours: 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m. for Advantage; 8 a.m. drop-off included and extended day until 5:30 is optional Transportation: Yes Fees: Vary.

Steffi Nossen Summer Dance 2015 216 CENTRAL AVE. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10606 (914) 328-1900 Director: Kathy Fitzgerald info@steffinossen.org www.steffinossen.org Philosophy: Programs fit the needs of a broad

spectrum of dancers. Both programs and faculty transmit the joy of dance while teaching technique and developing creativity. Enrollment: Currently accepting enrollment for weeklong Company in Residence Program, an

opportunity for experienced high school and college dancers to join a professional dance company in daily Company Class and create and learn repertory; week-long Hip Hop Intensive, an exciting week of hip hop and break dancing classes, including freestyling, repertory, plus dance conditioning and modern dance classes for grades 6 and up; Young Movers Summer Dance Camp for grades 2-5 with classes in modern, ballet, composition, hip hop, tap and musical theater classes, along with creative movement, arts and crafts activities, dance history and games; week-long Dance Intensives for dancers in sixth grade-high school offers daily modern, ballet and jazz technique classes, plus improvisation/ composition, repertory, Pilates and yoga; Dance Master Series: 10 Artists in 10 Days — each day a different performing professional will present a Master Class followed by discussion and repertory in a variety of modern and jazz techniques; and Adult Moving Wheels & Heels Adaptive Dance Residency and Children’s Adaptive Dance Camp. Calendar: Professional Dance Residency: June 29-July 2; Hip-Hop Intensive: July 6-10; Young Movers Summer Dance Camp: July 6-17; Weeklong Dance Intensives: July 20-24 and 27-31; Master Series: 10 Artists in 10 Days: July 29-Aug. 9; Moving Wheels & Heels Adaptive Dance: Adult Weeklong Intensive June 22-27; Children’s Camp June 29-July 2. Transportation: No Fees: Call for details.

Temple Israel Center Summer Camp 280 OLD MAMARONECK RD. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605 (914) 948-2800 EXT. 126 Director: Patty Goldstick p.goldstick@templeisraelcenter.org Philosophy: Our six-and-a-half-week camp provides a summer filled with enthusiastic, ageappropriate fun and discovery in a relaxed nurturing environment. Enrollment: 40 campers Camper-counselor ratio: Staffed by nursery school teachers; ratio varies depending on age group, but low Calendar: June 22-Aug. 5 Hours: Mommy & Me, Mondays 9:30-11:30 a.m.; 2s (two-, three- and five-day options), 9-11:30 a.m.; 3s (three- and five-day options), 9 a.m.-noon; 4s, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- noon Transportation: No Fees: Call for information.

its 46th year Monday, July 6, and concludes seven weeks later on Friday, Aug. 21. The Summer Challenge attracts campers from ages 3-14, is co-educational and has swimming and instructional swim as its main focus. The Challenge also makes available 25 other recreational activities. A seasoned staff of 20, mostly teachers and other professionals, help make each summer day a fun and safe one. Our open houses are set for Sundays, March 15, and April 19, both from 2-4 p.m. Call for a brochure or any other information. Enrollment: 150 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 or 6:1 Calendar: July 6-Aug. 21 Hours: 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Transportation: Yes, call for details Fees: $660/week. Discounts on multiple-week programs. Special programs/other: Summer school classes from July 13-Aug. 7.

Twin Lakes Farm 960 CALIFORNIA RD. BRONXVILLE, NY 10708 (914) 961-2192 Director: Kirsten Cowen Kirsten@TwinLakesFarm.com www.TwinLakesFarm.com Philosophy: Traditional riding academy and sum-

mer camp with over 45 lesson horses, indoor and outdoor riding. Enrollment: 30 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: July 1-Aug. 23; weekly, biweekly, monthly and full summer camp Hours: Half day, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; full day, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $500/week half day, $750/week full day; multi-week discounts Special programs/other: Summer camp includes twice daily riding, horsemanship, horsey arts and crafts, waterslides and horsey games. Afternoon summer leasing also available by the month or week. New renovated facility with new indoor dedicated to camp.

Westchester Community College Center for the Arts Art Camp WESTCHESTER COUNTY CENTER 196 CENTRAL AVE. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10606 (914) 606-7500 Director: Lisa Santalis Arts@sunywcc.edu www.sunywcc.edu/arts Philosophy: Explorations may include drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and more. Students will be introduced to and work with a variety of quality materials and will experiment

with different styles, inspired by artists and art movements. This interactive program blends fun with fine art (clay sculpture, drawing, painting, digital art, crafts, mixed media, architecture). Enrollment: 60 Camper-counselor ratio: 16:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 13 Hours: 1-3 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $580, plus $8.25 registration fee Special programs/other: Other programs we offer are public speaking and debate camp, teen art institutes in drawing, painting, photography and ceramics and teen art portfolio development.

Westchester Summer Day 865 ORIENTA AVE. MAMARONECK, NY 10543 (914) 698-8900 Director: David Iskovitz wsd@westchesterday.org www.westchesterday.org/summer Philosophy: Westchester Summer Day (WSD) offers an unmatched summer experience where children have fun, learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. Our highly trained and caring staff includes teachers, sports and art specialists, lifeguards and a full-time nurse. Our professional staff work together to ensure that each child is happy all summer long. WSD promotes Jewish values and engages children in a host of fun activities within the framework of the modern orthodox tradition. Enrollment: 600 Camper-counselor ratio: 18:4 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 20 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Transportation is available from Westchester and NYC Fees: See website.

Woodmont Day Camp 420 PHILLIPS HILL RD. NEW CITY, NY 10956 (845) 638-0700 Directors: Ilisha and Sam Borek info@woodmontdaycamp.com www.woodmontdaycamp.com Philosophy: Woodmont Day Camp is a camp where each child will feel the warmth and comfort of home. Your child will experience a dynamic program in an environment fostering growth and independence. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 29-Aug. 20 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Yes Fees: Upon request Special programs/other: Teen travel programs available for seventh-ninth-graders.

View these listings with live hyperlinks to the camp websites in our online KIDS! issue at www.rivertownsenterprise.net Click the “read online” link and go to page 39.

PAGE 46A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

“See How We GROW” CHART

3’ 10” 3’ 9” 3’ 8” 3’ 7” 3’ 6” 3’ 5”

NOTES

3’ 11”

This growth chart compliments of ... 3’ 4”

WILLIAM RAVEIS REALTY GROUP

3’ 3” 3’ 2” 3’ 1”

“Only The Best Become Legends” 579 Broadway • Hastings-on-Hudson • 478-1500 68 Main Street • Irvington • 591-5600 37 Main Street • Tarrytown • 332-6300 1197 Pleasantville Road • Briarcliff Manor • 762-0070

legendsrealtygroup.net INTEGRITY • SERVICE • EXPERIENCE

PLACE THIS “SEE HOW WE GROW” CHART ON A FLAT WALL SURFACE 3 FEET OFF THE FLOOR.

MARCH 13, 2015

KIDS!

Celebrating 24 Great Years

New York Goju Karate Black Belt Academy AGE & RANK SPECIFIC CLASSES

Home of Mission Bullyproof • Pre-School Tiny Tigers Leadership • All Women • Teen/Adult • Parent/Child

ALL DAY SUMMER KARATE CAMPS begins June 29th

On Hudson Fitness & Dance Studio

Jazz • Hip-Hop • Lyrical • Contemporary • Modern Tap • Pre-School • Princess Ballet • Pointe • Classical Ballet

FULL WEEK DANCE INTENSIVE begins June 29th

CALL FOR MORE INFO!

558 Warburton Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson

914.478.0508 www.nygka.com www.onhudsondance.com

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 47A

PAGE 48A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

KIDS!

MARCH 13, 2015

NUMBERS TO KNOW Compliments of Better Homes and Gardens/Rand Realty

SCHOOLS NURSERY

ARDSLEY Ardsley Community Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-4932 Ardsley United Methodist Church Nursery School. . . . . 693-0204 DOBBS FERRY Alcott Montessori School . . . . 693-4443, 472-4404 or 595-7551 Chabad Pre-school. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6100 Christian Pre-school, Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church . . . 693-0026 Community Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-9072 Greenburgh Hebrew Center Nursery School . . . . . . . . . 693-5121 Hudson River School of Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-9481 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON Five Corners Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2334 Goddard School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-1390 Hastings Co-op Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3777 Rivertowns Pre-School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6181 Temple Beth Shalom Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3833 IRVINGTON Good Shepherd Early Childhood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-4104 Immaculate Conception Pre-Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . .591-6614

PAROCHIAL

John Cardinal O’Connor School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9330

PUBLIC

ARDSLEY UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Superintendent of Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6300 Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6300 Concord Road Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7510 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7564 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6300 DOBBS FERRY UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Superintendents Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1506 Business Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1500 Springhurst Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1503 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7640 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7645 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS Superintendent’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6200 Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2900 Hillside Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6270 Farragut Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6230 Hastings High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6250 IRVINGTON Superintendent’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8500 Dows Lane Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-6012 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9494 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8500

PRIVATE

Hackley School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 631-0128 Masters School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1400

CHILDCARE

Ardsley Children’s Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6686 Ardsley Pals -5th & 6th Grades, Middle School . . . . . . 674-1222 Around The World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 479-0762 Aspire - Hastings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-5521 Beginners Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2334 Days of Wonder Child Care Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-2980 Dobbs Ferry After-School Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-2406 Homework Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-0756 Irvington Children’s Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .591-8182 Little Village Day Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0600

Emergencies

911

FOR ALL VILLAGES

Poison Control Center

800-222-1222

AMBULANCE FIRE . POLICE

(non-emergency numbers) ARDSLEY Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1700 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1700 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1700 DOBBS FERRY Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-5500 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-3000 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-5500 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-2344 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-2344 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-2344 IRVINGTON Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-5151 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9867 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8080

HOSPITALS EMERGENCY ROOMS Dobbs Ferry Pavilion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phelps Memorial Hospital Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St. John’s Riverside Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . White Plains Hospital Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

693-5187 366-3590 964-4349 681-1155

BUSES & TRAINS Bee Line Bus Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 813-7777 Metro North Railroad From New York City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-532-4900 From all other areas. . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-METRO-INFO

LIBRARIES Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6636 Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6614 Greenburgh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 721-8200 Greenburgh (children’s) . . . . . . . . . . . 721-8227 Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3307 Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-7840

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P.O. Box 119 P.O. Box 444 P.O. Box 405 P.O. Box 161

RECREATION Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-8012 Dobbs Ferry Recreation & Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-5505 Greenburgh Nature Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 723-3470 Hastings-on-Hudson Community Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2380 Irvington Recreation Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-7736

POST OFFICES Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0476 Ardsley-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-7299 Dobbs Ferry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0451 Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3786 Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-6487

THE ARTS The Hudson River Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 963-4550 Irvington Town Hall Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-6602 Newington Cropsey Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-7990 Rivertowns Art Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 476-2321

Please Refrigerate Immediately!