A SPECIAL SECTION OF
The Rivertowns Enterprise MARCH 14, 2014
KIDS
Page 2A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
MARCH
15 Ardsley Library, Moving through the World in Stories, 11:30 a.m. 693-6636 Hudson River Museum, Art & Science Projects, 1-4 p.m. 963-4550 16 Muscoot Farm, Katonah. Maple Sugaring, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Chabad of Rivertowns, Dobbs Ferry. Family Purim Celebration, 11:30 a.m. Irvington Town Hall Theater, In the Heights. Westchester Community College, Tomaseau Foley’s Irish Times
17 Barnes & Nobles, White Plains City Center, Storytime, 3:30 p.m. 18 Pottery Barn, White Plains, Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m. Irvington Library, Music and Movement, 11 a.m., 591-7840 Irvington Library, Gravity of the Situation, ages 4-8, 591-7840 20 Hastings Library, Let’s Pretend, 6-36 months, 10 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. (thru May), 478-3307 Hastings Library, Out of the Book, ages 3-5, 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. (thru May), 478-3307 White Plains Library, Silly Singalong, 2 p.m. Chorus Line, Harrison Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m. 21 Westchester County Center, Baseball Show, 2-8 p.m. 21 & 28 Ardsley Library Lego Club, ages 5 and up, 693-6636 22 Tarrytown Music Hall Theater, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other Eric Carle Favorites, 631-3390 25 Irvington Library, Puzzle Games, ages 8 and up, 5 p.m. 591-7840
Kids!
APRIL 3
Dobbs Ferry Library, Nursery Rhyme Time, ages 1 & 2, 11 a.m., 693-6614 5 Dobbs Ferry Recreation, registration for Summer Day Camp, Community Center, 693-0024 Tarrytown Music Hall Theater, ( ALFIO The Voice from Oz), 631-3390 5&6 Irvington Town Hall Theater, Clocktower Players, Disney’s Aladdin Jr., 591-6602 Greenburgh Nature Center, programs year-round, Monday-Thursday, 723-3470 7 Hastings Recreation, Storybook Art, pre-school, 478-2380 ext. 600 10 Ardsley Library, Kids Crafts, K-2nd grade, 693-6636 Dobbs Ferry Library, Toddler Time, age 2, 11 a.m. 693-6614 10-13 Westchester County Center, Disney Live-Pirates & Princess Adventure, 995-4050 Greenburgh Nature Center, Aquatic Adventures, April-June, pre-K to 2, 723-3470 18 Dobbs Ferry Library, Egg decorating, 1:30-3:30 p.m., bring your own hard-boiled, plastic or blown-out egg, 693-6614 LegoLand Discovery Center, Yonkers, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Muscoot Farm, Katonah, 1-1:30 p.m. Hear stories Irvington Recreation Dept., Kidscorner I, Wednesdays, 9:30-10:20a.m. and Kidscorner II, 10:35-11:35 a.m. 19 Dobbs Ferry Annual Spring Egg Hunt, Recreation Dept . for more information, 693-0024 21 Hudson River Museum, Friday Night Live, The Art of Video Games, 7-8:30 p.m., 963-4550 23-30 Irvington Summer Day Camp, early registration, 3 years-8th grade 25 Irvington Town Hall Theater, Starry, Starry Night, 591-6602 25 Ardsley Library, Lego Club, ages 5 & up, 4 pm, 693-6636 26 WCR Run for the wild, Bronx Zoo, family 5k 26 Earth Day Celebrations 29 & 30, 31, 4/2 Tarrytown Music Hall Theater, Random Farms Kids Theater presents Aladdin Kids, 631-3390
MAY
2-4 Irvington Town Hall Theater, A Little Princess, Broadway Training, 591-6602 Irvington Recreation, Mondays, 1-2 p.m. or 2:20-3:20 p.m. Lil’ Cooks, ages 3-5 3 Irvington Recreation, early registration, Summer Day Camp, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Kids workshop at all Home Depots, 9 a.m. Family Art Project, Wave Hill Garden, 10 a.m. 7 Irvington Recreation, early registration, Summer Day Camp, 4-7 p.m.
MARCH 14, 2014
9 & 10 Irvington Town Hall Theater, Into the Woods, Clocktower Players, 591-6602 11 Happy Mother’s Day 18 Irvington Town Hall Theater, Broadway Training Spring Recital, Space Exploration, 591-6602 Greenburgh Nature Center, Pond Ecology, grades 3-7, 723-3470 (through June) Greenburgh Nature Center, Forest Ecology, grades 3-7, 723-3470 (through June) Greenburgh Nature Center, A Bug’s Life, pre-K to grade 7, 723-3470 (through June) Irvington Recreation Dept., Music with Marc, 9:15-10 a.m., Thursdays Irvington Recreation Dept., Stepping Stones, 2 yrs and older, drop-off program Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., 9:30-11:30 a.m.
JUNE 1 4 15 26
Family Art Project, Wave Hill Garden, 10 a.m. Dobbs Ferry Library, Storytime, 1 p.m. Happy Father’s Day Last Day of School – Happy Summer!
CALENDAR
17, 24, 31 Hastings Recreation, James Harmon Community Center, Storybook Art Workshops, pre-school. 478-2380 ext. 600
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 Houlihan Lawrence and The Rivertowns Enterprise are not responsible for any misprints or errors
MARCH 14, 2014
Inside
Benjamin Green
Get out and play! Fun area places to visit with your kids........................ 6A
Raising children and pets… perfect together........................... 12A Making kids art smart and gallery groovy......................................... 16A Eye care for kids: Recess time can reduce risk of nearsightedness........................... 18A Laser toys can cause serious eye injuries........................................ 18A American Academy of Pediatrics Recommendations for 2014................................. 20A-26A Rivertowns Parent’s Guide Healthy Kids ....................... 28A-32A
A
Cover Winner
rdsley’s Jody and Ira Green are the lucky grandparents of Benjamin, who, along with his lion, was photographed by his mom, Sarah Zonenshine of Briarcliff Manor. “He was just learning how to sit up on his own,” Mom said of the now 8-month-old. “He loves lions and I thought he looked adorable in the pajamas that matched his lion stuffed animal. I take so many photos of him that he seems to automatically smile when I take out the camera now.” Benjamin’s dad, Matt, grew up in Ardsley, teaches music and gives private lessons in the Rivertowns. “He’s very into music like his daddy,” Mom said. “Whenever his toys play music he giggles and tries to dance in his seat.” Benjamin is always game for some peek-a-boo, which he often kicks off by putting a blanket over his head. The recent crawler is now starting to explore his environment. There is plenty of growing ahead for Benjamin, but he’s already started to blossom. “Benjamin has always had an outgoing personality,” Mom said. “He loves to smile and can be quite the flirt.”
Travel time: 5 sure-fire steps for a great family vacation.................... 34A Technology: Can tablets for toddlers teach more than tapping?............ 36A Cover Contest Kids.11A, 14A, 25A, 35A, 38A, 43A
Harper Victoria Dayton
S 2014 Rivertowns Enterprise
Preschool Guide pages 39A-42A
A special section of
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 Kathy Patti ADVERTISING SALES Marilyn Petrosa, Thomas O’Halloran, Barbara Yeaker, and Francesca Lynch ©2014 W.H. White Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without the Publisher’s written permission.
Division one Winner
omeone was excited to see Disney on Ice at the IZOD Center. Yes, the now 13-month-old Harper was well prepared in her Minnie Mouse shirt. “It really captured who she is,” grandmother Lori Dayton said. “She’s such a happy baby. She’s so playful.” Lori lives in Hastings-on-Hudson and makes sure to see Harper at least once a week since she only lives across the county in Larchmont. There are many things that keep Harper happy: library time, swimming lessons, music class, playing with blocks and playing hide and seek (and she will even tell you just where to hide!). Her favorite is Thomas the Tank Engine. Harper also loves dogs, especially her grandparents’ dog, Heidi. “She’s very outgoing, not a shy baby,” Lori said. “She connects very quickly with people. And she’s very smart. She understands everything we say and she’s starting to talk a little. That’s very exciting, very fun.” Just watch out when she’s throwing a plastic disc. The innocent bystander in Target could have used that warning. “She’s very athletic,” Lori said. “She can throw pretty hard.”
Kids! The Rivertowns Enterprise
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 3A
Kids! Cover Contest Winners
Sharing terrific times with toddlers ...................................... 4A
Brainpower from books? Still the No. 1 choice, according to experts ......................................... 8A
Kids!
Jonas Miro
N
Division Two Winner
ow that’s a big kid at play! Newly 5-year-old Jonas lives in Ardsley and is the youngest of three, so he’s been shown the ropes (and tunnels) by his 9-year-old sister Eliana and 8-year-old brother Sam. Little bro can’t wait to join them at Concord Road Elementary School in the fall. “He gets along with his siblings, unless they are annoying him,” mom Alyssha said. “They will play and read together, but jumping on our furniture is probably their favorite pastime.” This adventurous photo was taken at a campground in New Mexico when the family traveled cross country from New York to California. “I love the composition of the photo with its dark circle and the light coming from the background,” Mom said. “But most of all I love Jonas’s youthful excitement which comes across in his smile.” Jonas doesn’t like to nap, otherwise he would miss things like playing hide and seek, dancing, coloring, singing, reading, going to school at The Pelham Children’s Center and doing cartwheels. “Jonas can do an amazing cartwheel,” Mom said. “I mean he is a REALLY good tumbler with no professional training. He’s got a way about him — very expressive and curious. Everyone says they just want to eat him up.”
Page 4A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Terrific times with toddlers
A
By JACKIE LUPO
fter a long, hard winter, many parents of kids under the age of 3 have just about run out of ideas for ways to spend meaningful time with their toddlers. There are many places to go and things to see, even activities without leaving the house to bond with your little one(s). Sometimes it’s the simplest things that are the most memorable. There was the time when we took our daughter, then 3, to a farm on Cape Cod where a bunch of pigmy goats — about the height of medium-sized dogs — decided to befriend her. After her initial surprise at being nuzzled by tiny creatures with hooves, she was delighted. And decades later, she remembers the experience as well as we do. Stephanie Mandella, who is children’s librarian and head of children’s services at the Katonah Village Library, as well as being a former preschool teacher, said the toddler period, generally defined as between 18 months and 3 years of age, is a tremendous time of physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. “Development in one area influences development in another area,” she said. “Children build upon skills and knowledge as they are acquired. Children also develop at different rates, as well as unevenly within each area.” Mandella said kids are active participants in their environments, drawing on direct experience socially and physically to make sense of the world around them. In short, toddlers are learning all the time, wherever you take them, whatever they see, and whatever they have the chance to do, especially with a parent or guardian by their side. Go to the library Your local public library is probably the single greatest resource for age-appropriate programs for preschoolers, and that includes toddlers. Mandella said what’s most important at this age is for a parent or caregiver to interact with their kids at the programs they attend. A story hour geared to older preschoolers, where kids are more capable of sitting attentively and actually listening to a story being read to them, is really not appropriate for the under-3 set. When registering your
In-House Printing CUSTOM INVITATIONS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
child for a library program, recognize that the age ranges for each program are pretty reliable, developmentally speaking. Asking to “promote” a toddler under the age of 3 into a class meant for older kids is bound to be frustrating for everyone concerned. At the Katonah library’s programs, as at most Westchester library programs geared to toddlers, language and social skills development are both on the agenda. But the material is presented in an age-appropriate format. “It’s important to children’s language development to hear many different sounds and words,” Mandella said. “We read short stories with colorful pictures, varied vocabulary and opportunities for participation. We also recognize that children at this age have short attention spans. They are simply too busy decoding their world to remain attentive for long periods of time. We provide many short, varied activities.” Mandella said parents shouldn’t feel
24-Hour Turnaround PERSONALIZED STATIONERY GREAT SELECTION OF GIFTS
uncomfortable if their kids need to explore the room during stories or songs, because they are still benefiting from hearing them. Talk to the animals Unless you live on a farm, your kids probably don’t have much interaction with animals other than the family pets. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in Westchester and vicinity where toddlers can see, and in some cases, interact with animals. The Weinberg Nature Center in Scarsdale and the Greenburgh Nature Center in Edgemont have frequent programs for preschoolers that feature stories, activities and visits from live animals. At the O’Hara Nature Center in Irvington, toddlers can attend programs that combine music with toddler-appropriate nature and animal themes. There are also many working farms in the area. At Muscoot Farm in Somers — a real
farm that’s also a county park — springtime is baby animal time. Toddlers can see calves, kids, lambs and piglets. The Stone Barns Center in Pocantico Hills is another place to see lots of farm animals. The Bergen County Zoo in nearby Paramus, N.J., is a great small-scale zoo that offers weekly programs for toddlers. There’s also a miniature railroad that the whole family can ride. For a truly interactive experience, hop on the train and head for the Tisch Children’s Zoo at the Central Park Zoo in Manhattan. Here kids can get up close and personal with goats, sheep, alpacas, potbellied pigs and other barnyard animals. There are even grain dispensers where you can buy a handful of grain for your (brave) toddler to feed the animals. The Bronx Zoo also has a kids’ zoo. Continued on the next page
Hudson Family Dental Jacqueline Paramo, DDS
Now Is The Time To Order Your Spring Event Invitations...
Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Communions • Confirmations Weddings • Showers and More! Best Gift Shop and Best Event Planner! Stop in and see our great selections.
63 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry • 591-6277
Hours: Mon - Sat, 10am - 6pm; Or by Appointment www.saycheeseandthankyou.com
5 South Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY (at hastings border)
914-478-4448 • email: drparamo@optonline.net
MARCH 14, 2014 continued from the previous page
Music and movement Toddlers love to make noise, hop around, and bang on things. What could be better than a class that actually encourages this sort of behavior? The Hoff-Barthelson School in Scarsdale has Dalcroze Eurhythmics music and movement classes that are designed to develop inner hearing and rhythmic sensitivity with ageappropriate exercises and games involving singing, movement, improvisation, and use of fun props such as balls, scarves and percussion instruments. The classes are geared to very specific age ranges from “learning in the lap” (4-12 months), through 12-18 months, 2’s and 3’s. Gymboree in Scarsdale also breaks up their classes into very narrow age ranges. They offer not only the traditional classes with toddler-friendly play equipment to build both socialization and gross motor skills, but also music classes where toddlers 16-28 months dance and sing to different styles of music. At the Ardsley Library, Bouncing Babies (6 months-2 years) and Two’s Company (23.5 years) combine stories, rhymes, puppets, songs and movement. Rainy day fun Sometimes the best fun you can have with your toddler is the kind you make up and that costs you nothing. So before you park yourself and your toddler in front of the TV on a rainy day, consider these alternatives: • Camp out in your living room: make a tent out of blankets draped over a table. Instead of serving lunch in the kitchen, pack a picnic and eat it in the tent by the light of a couple of flashlights.
Kids!
• Create a toilet paper treasure hunt: use a roll of toilet tissue to make a continuous trail through the house. At the end, place a “treasure” such as a small book or toy. • Have a teddy bear party: round up all the stuffed animals and invite them to “tea” around a child-size table. Use toy dishes if you have them, but if not, just set out paper plates. The food and drink? Imaginary ones are best! • Jump in the pillow pit: Dump all the chair and sofa cushions and throw pillows in a pile in the middle of the room. Little kids will enjoy bouncing for hours. • Keep the box: large, clean corrugated cardboard boxes, such as the ones lamps or appliances come in, can make for hours of toddler fun. The same box can become a car, a boat, a house, even a puppet theater. Have the kids try decorating the “walls” with crayons. Be sure to check all packing boxes for staples before using. • Make a homemade xylophone: Line up a set of eight tall drinking glasses. Fill each one with a different amount of water, from just a little to almost full. Show kids how to gently tap the side of each glass with a spoon to play “notes.” What about all those enticing apps available for toddlers to use on iPads and computers? For toddlers, they’re no substitute for parent participation. “At this stage of development, exposure to technology is not the most important,” said Mandella. “The primary focus is to be exploring through the senses and through interaction with adults, people they feel comfortable and safe with. We have technology available because it can be a tool as any other tool when used correctly, with adult interaction at the appropriate age — ages 4 and up.”
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 5A
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 30–Friday, August 22
CAMP HOURS
Full Day: 9am–3pm
Extended Hours and Half-Day Camp Available. 10% super early bird discount if enrolled by 3/31/14 5% early bird discount if enrolled by 4/31/14
Visit GymCats.net for more details!
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)
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 email:rjb@autismspeech.com • www.autismspeech.com
Entering our 31st year, SUMMERARTS’ 14 offers a series of multi-disciplinary arts workshops for children entering grades 3-9. Staffed by artist-educators committed to their art and to working with young people, the atmosphere is always friendly, creative and fun! New this year! SUMMERARTS now offers a 3 week schedule! Dates: August 11-15, 18-22, 25-29 Time: 9AM-2PM Place: First Reformed Church Hastings Early Bird Special! Registration and payment must be recieved by May 31st. For More Information Contact the Director Call Helen Elliot 914.657.3545 or email summerarts4kids@gmail.com
www.riverarts.org
Page 6A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Get out and play!
Fun area places to visit with your kids
G
By TRACI DUTTON LUDWIG
through children 5 years of age — have been developed by Kidville’s team of early childhood development specialists. Check the website for playspace hours and a class schedule.
ot little ones? We’ve got a lot for you to do. Outings are a great way to connect with your child and stimulate social skills, intellect, and mental and physical development. Westchester and the surrounding area are full of destinations to occupy the pre-k crowd. With all this fun and enrichment, you’ll wish you had a bigger calendar. And this list just scratches the surface…
Greenburgh Nature Center 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale 723-3470 www.greenburghnaturecenter.org
Bronx River Pathway Bronx River Reservation 864-PARK www.parks.westchestergov.com/trailways With so much time spent indoors, kids love to be outside. Taking a walk appeals to their curiosity and high energy. Make sure to notice the details of nature while you’re traversing paths and trails. Talking about leaves, plants, animal tracks, insects and clouds will not only stimulate hands-on learning, it will also make memories. The Bronx River Pathway is an extensive system of trails located within the Bronx River Reservation. Opened in 1925, the Reservation is an 807-acre linear park adjacent to the Bronx River Parkway, which extends north from Westchester’s border with New York City to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. The pathway trails consist of three paved segments — a one-mile loop near Oak Street in Mount Vernon, a 4.6-mile section from Palmer Road in Bronxville to Crane Road in Scarsdale, and a 5-mile section extending from Greenacres Avenue in Hartsdale to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. On Sundays in the summer, a portion of the Bronx River Parkway closes to vehicular traffic to allow for the county’s popular Bike and Skate Sunday program. It’s a good time to transition from trikes to training wheels to bicycles. Trail maps can be downloaded from the county’s website.
Kensico Dam
1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla 328-1542 www.parks.westchestergov.com/kensico-dam-plaza As an imposing architectural marvel, the Kensico Dam is one of Westchester’s wonders. Built from locally quarried stone at the beginning of the 20th century, it is 300 feet high and 1,800 feet long. Children will enjoy walking along the monument and playing
in the adjacent public plaza and parkland. Greenspace, paved walkways and a playground offer activities for children. In the spring and summer months, families can bring tricycles, scooters, skates and balls for active fun. For artistically inclined families, the pavement offers an ideal surface for chalk drawing or a spontaneous game of hopscotch. Outdoor movies, with local entertainment before dusk, have been a summertime highlight. Check the website for further information — jammies optional.
creativity and experimentation. As part of that ambiance, he envisioned a museum in the open, where sculpture and landscape art could be enjoyed by employees and members of the community. The gardens include masterpieces by Alexander Calder, Joan Miro, Alberto Giacometti, Henry Moore, George Segal, Jean Dubuffet and Auguste Rodin. The gardens are free and open daily to the public from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April through October and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November through March.
Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens, at PepsiCo World Headquarters
Kidville
700 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase Featuring more than 45 sculptures by major 20th century artists and set within 168 acres of lush green lawns and manicured gardens, the Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens make for a delightful afternoon. Kids can run and play freely in the presence of great art. The gardens have been around for more than 40 years, since PepsiCo moved its company headquarters out of Manhattan to Purchase. At the time, the company’s chief executive wanted to create an atmosphere of stability,
145 Kisco Ave., Mount Kisco 458-1909 www.kidville.com/mtkisco When it’s time to burn some energy and you can’t get outside, Kidville is the perfect indoor destination. At various times throughout the week, Kidville staff converts one of the facility’s state-of-the-art gyms into a fantastic supervised indoor play space. Kids can run and climb in a safe and fun environment, while having the opportunity to make new friends. Regular classes are also available to engage various interests, including art, dance, enrichment, music and gym activities. All classes — geared for babies
There’s always something to do at Greenburgh Nature Center. From trails and outdoor exhibits to an indoor animal museum and drop-in classes, children will delight in experiential learning. Abundant life can be found on all four levels of the forest: the high canopy of oaks, the understory of dogwoods, the shrub level of viburnums and the forest floor level of wildflowers and mushrooms. The Great Lawn area provides an ideal space to rest and enjoy the beauty of the season. It is the staging area for special events and other gatherings. There is also an organic garden area and a butterfly garden. Outdoor animal displays include prairie dogs, rabbits, chickens, sheep, goats, turkeys, honeybee hives and a birds of prey aviary. There’s also a nature discovery playground. Indoor exhibits feature a live animal museum with more than 100 specimens, a greenhouse with a variety of plants from all over the world and a large exhibit room with changing natural history and nature-related art exhibits.
Legoland Discovery Center 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers (for GPS use: 1 Ridge Hill Blvd., Yonkers, NY 10710) (866) 243-0770 www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ westchester
Especially designed for children ages 3-10, Legoland Discovery Center promises hours of creative fun. Fifteen activities include a simulated factory tour, hands-on building exercises, a 4-D cinema, themed rides, an exhibition of spectacular creations built out of Legos, Master Building Academy workshops, earthquake tables, a soft preschool play area, a mini-figure trading center, a café and gift shop. “Tot Tuesdays” offer reduced admission prices on Tuesday visits. Annual membership passes offer further savings for repeat visits. Children under 2 are always admitted at no charge. Note: Due to limited availability, tickets are best purchased in advance online. A limited number of tickets are available at the door each day, but their availability is not guaranteed. Continued on the next page
MARCH 14, 2014 continued from the previous page
Oakland Beach, at Rye Town Park 95 Dearborn Ave., Rye, NY 967-2535, www.townofryeny.com For kids, a day on the beach is always a happy day. Located on the coastline of the Long Island Sound, Oakland Beach and the adjacent Rye Town Park has been delighting residents and travelers for over a century. The beach is a 1,200 foot-long expansive crescent of white sand. The beach is monitored by lifeguards from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend; during this time, a snack bar and beach shop are also open on the ground level of the beach. Seaside Johnnies, a restaurant on the upper street level, overlooks the beach and serves food, drinks and ice cream yearround. Children can enjoy sandcastle building and sand play, they can collect shells along the shore or they can play in the waves. On windy days, many families can be seen flying kites along the shore, with a view of the Playland Ferris wheel silhouetted in the distance.
Rockland Boulders Minor League Baseball 1 Provident Bank Park Dr., Pomona, NY (for older model GPS systems, use: 27 Fireman’s Memorial Drive, Pomona, NY) (845) 364-0009, www.rocklandboulders.com You don’t even have to be a baseball fan to love a Rockland Boulders game. You just have to love oldfashioned family fun! The excitement of live action on the baseball diamond fascinates kids. But that’s not all — expect to enjoy appearances by BoulderBird, the team’s friendly mascot, opportunities to get players’ autographs, special fireworks nights and sponsored giveaways throughout the season. Provident Bank Park also features a kids’ playground in right field — BoulderBerg. Here, parents can sit back at picnic tables and enjoy the game while
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 7A
kids run around and have fun on slides, swings, climbing walls and a jungle gym. Rubberized floor mats ensure safety. The 2014 season runs from May 23-Sept. 1. Check the website for game schedule and ticket information.
Rye Playland Amusement Park 100 Playland Parkway, Rye 813-7010, www.ryeplayland.org You’ve been to Disney World. You’ve been to Universal Studios. You know the theme parks, but have you visited the amusement park in your own backyard? With kiddy rides, boardwalk games, funnel cakes and cotton candy, Rye Playland offers quintessential summertime fun. This year opening day is Saturday, May 10. Family rides and a dedicated Kiddyland promise old-fashioned amusement classics such as carousels, a mini scrambler, boat rides, antique cars, a fun slide, a kids’ coaster, flying dragons, a jolly caterpillar, a roundabout train and other child-friendly rides. After dark at 9:15 p.m., spectacular fireworks displays are choreographed to music every Wednesday and Friday in July and August. Special holiday shows are scheduled for July 3 and 4 on the Pier.
Saxon Woods Park Miniature Golf 1800 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains 381-4843, www.parks.westchestergov.com/ miniature-golf Budget-friendly and convenient, Saxon Woods Park boasts a miniature golf course and adjacent playground. The miniature golf course has all the popular putting obstacles and is fun for kids and adults alike. The course is structured around 18 holes of varying degrees of difficulty. Ask for child-sized clubs to make the game easier for little ones. Call for details regarding inseason opening hours.
VISIT OUR PAGE TO LOOK FOR HEATLH UPDATES, EVENTS AND SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS!
SCHOOL ~ SPORTS ~ CAMP PHYSICALS x-ray, ekg, blood test,vaccines, flu shots, physicals, treatment for infections, illnesses and injuries. Open 7 Days & Evenings • No Appointment Needed • Most Major Insurances Accepted
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8am - 8pm ; Saturday & Sunday, 9am - 3pm 155 White Plains Road (Rt.119), Suite 101, Tarrytown, NY 10591
Phone (914) 372-7171 • www.UCofWestchester.com
Page 8A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Brainpower from books? Still the No. 1 choice, according to experts
A
By MARY LEGRAND
re you the parent of an infant or preschooler and tempted to purchase computer programs to jump-start or boost your child’s brainpower? In truth, you might be better off stepping away from the credit cards, according to advice from developmental pediatricians. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ website, healthychildren.org, has tons of help for parents, including age-appropriate sections on cognitive development. Much of the advice should sound familiar to current grandparents, who for the most part raised their kids prior to the days when computers, smart phones and tablets gave youngsters the opportunity to watch or tap on something 24/7. Rather, play is at the forefront of learning, the AAP experts note. Wind-up toys, switches, buttons and knobs — the original mechanical items — continue to provide a child with a wide range of activities, “and she’ll select the ones that are challenging but not completely beyond her abilities.” The common perception is that a huge percentage of a child’s brainpower is reached by age 5. William Levinson, M.D., chief of developmental pediatrics at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, noted how a young child’s brain grows: “Brain development is both physical and functional. The child’s head grows because the brain contained within the skull is growing. A second way to measure growth in the brain is the number of cells — the total number of adult brain cells is reached by 15 months of age. A third way to measure growth in the brain is brain weight: the average brain weight for a male in his early 20s is a little over 3 pounds — 90 percent of this would be achieved between 3-4 years of age.” But “while the major percentage of the physical growth of the brain occurs between 1 1/2 and 4 years of age, the functional capability of the brain lags behind this physical growth,” Dr. Levinson said. “You would not expect a 4-year-old to know 90 percent of what an adult knows.” Brain development “can best be promoted by helping a child to learn — talking to your child, even when the child is an infant, engaging the child in meaningful, reciprocal communication is the best basis for learning,”
Levinson said. “Reading to a child is also a good way to promote learning, and also a way to show a child the value of reading, and reading is a way that a child will continue to learn on his or her own.” Mark Bertin, M.D., a board-certified developmental-behavioral pediatrician with a practice in Pleasantville who is affiliated with Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, agrees that reading to young children, no matter their age, is of utmost importance. “As parents, we’re under constant pressure to do whatever we can to give our children a leg up,” Dr. Bertin wrote in his Huffington Post blog in September 2013. “Millions of dollars are spent marketing to us, most of it without a whole lot of grounding in reality. For example, claims are continually made, yet there is scant evidence to date that ‘educational’ software has much (if any) benefit for children.” As for “new” products, Bertin wrote, “apologies if you find it a stretch, but new books come out every week. That may not sound flashy, but more than any other ‘product,’ time with books has been shown to build language and cognitive abilities.” Bertin said there’s been a lot of chatter about how to best educate the prekindergarten crowd, but “the most research about children
Kavita Kohli, DDS BOARD CER TIFIED PEDIATRIC DENTIST
495 Central Park Avenue, Suite 208 ~ Scarsdale, NY 10583 www.rivertownspediatricdentistry.com ~ 914-725-9620
from infants to age 5 has to do with things we’re familiar with, some of them common sense, like being raised in a stable, supportive home environment, which definitely influences brain development.” Bertin said there’s a growing body of evidence about social and emotional skills, so-called “executive” function and cognitive skills and how they correlate with school success. “A lot of these skills really come from open-ended, imaginative play, so in most households what you’re looking at to promote brain development are things that are readily accessible and don’t involve more than most parents are already doing,” he said. Children attending preschools that focus on play, language and social development “generally do better than those who attend more academic programs,” Bertin said. “Despite pressure being put on parents and preschools to do more, being around caring adults who talk to children a lot and expose them to caring experiences, being around books, is of primary importance.” When you look at all the different things that set kids up for school success, another one is just background knowledge, partly from books and partly from getting out in the world and doing activities.
Research has shown that children from lower-income homes are exposed to about half the language of children from higher-income homes by the time they reach kindergarten. Bertin used the analogy of an adult trying to read an article about advanced physics without having a basic knowledge of physics. “It’s difficult to do if you just don’t have any of that content knowledge to begin with, and that goes into the classroom setting for children who lack knowledge of basic things that other students have,” he said. Parents who allow children some screen time are not doing major developmental harm, Bertin said, but as always, that activity should come in moderate doses. “Anything we repeat enough reinforces itself by creating brain connections to support that specific behavior,” he wrote on the Huffington Post blog. “Routines built early in childhood neurologically sustain themselves around nutrition, reading, technology and countless other aspects of life.” Therefore, “there’s nothing wrong with wellmanaged computer use for entertainment, and technology can be a powerful tool when well-utilized,” Bertin continued. “Someday, a specific product may even be proven to educate. Yet, screen habits develop early and built-in marketing is highly influential. In order to raise a generation of children able to manage media without allowing an intrusion on other vital activities or a push toward less healthy habits, we must promote and model a balanced lifestyle from the start.” To build the best brain possible, lay a foundation for success by reading. “Get on board by going back to the basics,” Bertin wrote in his blog. “No one is going to spend millions of dollars to convince you that the most important product for your child’s development may simply be a pile of books.” In short, Bertin offers this advice: Make reading a part of every day, and have fun while doing it by talking about the pictures; letting your child turn the pages; choosing books about events in your child’s life; making stories come alive by creating voices for a story’s characters; asking questions about the story and letting your child ask questions about it as well; and visiting your local library often — “you do not even need to spend money on this particular brain-building product at all!”
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Bedtime tips to help your kids sleep better at night When your children have trouble sleeping at night it can be just as tiring for you as for your little ones. And no matter what the source of the issue is, a full night’s sleep is important for everybody’s physical and mental health. Take steps to help children rest better at night by trying these old and new sleep tight tips to make bedtime easier for the whole family: Stay Active Don’t be afraid to tire children out! Sign up your kids for Little League, gymnastics classes and ballet. Or just simply visit the park each day for a game of tag, catch or a bike ride. Keep your kids mentally active, as well. Instead of zoning out in front of the television, encourage them to read, write or paint. A full day of activity means your children will be ready for some shut-eye by bedtime. Mindful Eating Everyone knows that caffeine before bedtime is a no-no. While your children are probably not coffee drinkers, don’t forget that soda and chocolate contain caffeine, too. Also, avoid feeding kids sugary or spicy foods before bedtime, as both can have a tossing and turning effect. Brighten Up For many kids, settling in for the night can be difficult but bedtime can be fun with a favorite plush toy. Instead of opting for a standard nightlight, try a soft and cuddly option that may make sleeping fun and comforting.
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 9A
RIVER TOWNS AR TS COUNCIL
NEW FOR 2014! RiverArts Music Program presents: Summer Jazz Camp Rituals A schedule helps the body know when to be alert and when to be sleepy. Set a bedtime for your kids and don’t let them deviate too much from their weekday routine on holidays and weekends. Nighttime rituals, such as bedtime reading, can help create a sleepy mood at night. Anxieties may make sleep a troublesome prospect for some kids, so another great bedtime ritual is simply spending time talking with your kids each night. This gives them the opportunity to open up and discuss what’s bothering them. With a few tricks, you can make bedtime more fun for kids. — StatePoint
Bauer Optical Eye Care
Includes Ensembles and Private Instruction in: Brass, Reeds, Winds, Percussion, Keyboard, Guitar, Bass, Strings & Vocals. Plus: Master Classes, Jam Sessions & Jazz Theory! With: Leading New York Jazz Artist Faculty. Directors: Ron Vincent and Nancy Kennedy. For: Aspiring Musicians from 5th Grade and up. Dates: July 14-18 Sessions: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM More information: riverarts.org email: info@riverarts.org call: 914.412.5103
We’re a Family Friendly Children’s Center We encourage you to visit. Please call to make an appointment.
Are your kids using one pair of glasses for all their activities? Perhaps they should have Backup. If the first pair should break while away, “What do you do?” Come in to Bauer Optical on Fridays or Saturdays and schedule your eye exam with Dr. Jennifer Sedaghati.
AND ...
Get a FREE pair of Single Vision lenses with any purchase of a New Frame. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Cannot be combined with any insurance plans. Valid on 1st division polycarbonate lenses, uncoated. Limit one pair per customer. Expires, April 5, 2014.
As always “Our focus is on You” Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9:30 – 5:30; Thursday: 10:00 – 7:00; Saturday: 10:00 – 3:00 (or by special appointment)
45 Main Street, Hastings-on-Hudson 914-478-0550
Ed Klotz, Optician
Check us out on the web: www.baueropticaleyecare.com
• 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.cbcc.org
Creative Beginnings Children’s Centers 112 W. Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale, NY 10530
(914) 428-1200
Page 10A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Help young children integrate reading into daily routine Children are energetic learners, trying to make sense of the world around them. One of the most important activities to help a child stretch his mind, especially in the early years, is reading. From birth to age 5, development in all areas of the brain is rapid, so it is especially important during this time that parents make an intentional effort to integrate reading into a child’s daily routine. This practice helps mold your child into an active reader and establishes the foundational literacy skills he needs for future success in school and life. “The first five years of life offer a critical window for brain development and learning,” said Anne-Marie Fitzgerald, executive director of Reach Out and Read, an evidence-based, national nonprofit whose pediatricians promote early literacy and school readiness to 4 million children nationwide. “By reading aloud and talking to their children from birth, parents can play a key role in helping their little ones develop essential foundational language skills and eventually, arrive at kindergarten ready to read, learn, and succeed. Learning does not begin on the first day of school; it begins in the home with engaged parents who take the time to share stories, words, and a love of reading with their children.” While picking up a book and reading to your child may seem like a simple act, many children miss this benefit. A 3-year-old child’s vocabulary should span about 600 words with 80 percent intelligibility. This means that a person who has not previously heard this child speak can understand eight out of 10 words. Providing children with a solid foundation in literacy skills not only equips them to thrive in the 21st Century, it
also impacts our country’s ability to compete in the global workplace. “The future of our children and our country depend on coordinated community efforts to prepare all students in the U.S. to excel in a dynamic, global society,” said Jo Kirchner, president and CEO of Primrose Schools, a family of more than 270 private preschools across the country. “Together we have a responsibility to step up to the challenge by pooling our knowledge, time, expertise and ideas to improve early literacy and education outcomes.” Raising a reader As you read aloud to your child, keep these tips in mind to maximize your reading time
together: • Start early. Begin reading and speaking to your child the day she is born — it is never too early to start. • Practice every day. Make reading with your child a daily routine, reinforcing the development of language and literacy skills. • Serve and return. A key part of language learning occurs in “conversations” with our children. After a baby listens to people around her talking for a few months, she begins to respond with her own rendition of those sounds, starting with coos, babbles or shrieks. Dr. Jack Shonkoff of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University calls this back-and-forth interaction “serve
and return.” As we “serve” words, children “return” sounds. Before we realize, the child is beginning to speak intelligibly and meaningfully — first with syllables and single words, then with phrases and complete sentences. Use “serve and return” when reading together as your child starts to learn about story background and context. • Play word games. Letter puzzles, rhyming games, breaking words into sounds, and other phonological play helps your child build a foundation that will later be used to decode words. • Have a conversation. While you are reading a book with your child, engage in conversation about the characters, the plot, the setting, and ask your child questions. This offers him an opportunity to build his vocabulary and comprehension skills. • Pick books at the appropriate reading level. When your child is reading to you, pick books that have words that your child is familiar with — repetition is one of the best ways to learn. Books at or just below your child’s reading level allow her to work on fluency and build confidence. When you are reading to your child, pick books at a higher reading level so that your child hears new words in context first, before being presented with the challenge of reading them himself. • Wait before interrupting. Rather than correcting your child mid-sentence, wait until he comes to a comfortable stopping point and then go back to the trouble spot to talk it out together. Stopping your child to correct him each time he makes a mistake can erode his confidence. — BPT
Get to Know Us! Dr. Tamar Gruenbaum - Pediatric Dentist
SPECIAL $19
300 Kimball Avenue Yonkers, N.Y. (in the office of John D. Constantine, DDS)
Examination Complete Cleaning Fluoride Consultation
(914) 237-3600
Kids!
MaRCH 14, 2014
ThE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 11a
Cute Kids! Jackson Burns
Alice DeVita Aranda
Violet M. Brienza
Luca DeVita Aranda
Bobby Battista
Josephine Rose Costello
Fiona Edith Denny
FOR YOUR KIDS' SUMMER! WOODPLAY PLAYSETS HAND BUILT REDWOOD PLAYSETS FOR EVERY FAMILY, EVERY YARD 100% NON-TOXIC & CHEMICAL FREE MODULAR SYSTEMS GROW WITH YOUR KIDS LANDSCAPING & SAFETY SURFACING SERVICES AVAILABLE
TRAMPOLINES
SWIM
HOOPS
GOGGLES & MASKS FLOTATION UV RASH SHIRTS & SWIMSUITS AND MORE!
THE WORLD'S SAFEST TRAMPOLINES
IN-GROUND & PORTABLE UNITS
Plus a huge selection of children's clothing & shoes from Tea Collection, Petit Bateau, Quiksilver, Patagonia, Keen, Geox, Tsukihoshi, and more! 335 MAMARONECK AVENUE MAMARONECK, NY 10543 MILLERSTOYS.COM (914) 698-5070
914-479-5419 WWW.HOUSEOFSPORTSNY.COM
Page 12A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Raising children and pets… perfect together
C
By MARY LEGRAND
hildren and pets are perfect together, kind of like peanut butter and jelly, right? Most folks would agree with that, and in fact, many parents have dogs, cats and other pets in the household at the same time as they’re raising kids. Local veterinarians are on board with that practice, and they offer tips on why mixing children and pets is such a good idea. Dr. Andrew Thayer, veterinarian at Hartsdale Veterinary Hospital, is the parent of two children, 11 and 13, who have grown up with pets. He sees numerous advantages for letting children have animals. “To me there are positive aspects to having pets, like helping foster responsibility,” Thayer said. “There are different stages of that, from feeding the dog or cat to grooming the animal, to taking the pet for a walk. And there’s the unconditional love that a pet gives to a child, and vice versa, that oftentimes helps a child. For children with fear or anxiety, having a pet can be very soothing.” Thayer also said that having a pet is “like having a real imaginary friend. Animals are great secret keepers; I’ve seen this with my own kids. And because animals have condensed life spans relative to those of a person, having a pet often helps children understand and experience loss on a different scale from the experience they would have if a grandparent dies, for instance.” Children can also be nudged outdoors more
L’dor Va-dor ...
often if there’s a pet in the household — “They can go out and throw the ball around or walk the dog, fostering a healthier lifestyle,” Thayer said. Dogs and cats are not the only options when it comes to pets. For some parents, getting a “starter” pet — a guinea pig, gerbil or hamster, for example — works better than initially taking on a dog or cat. “You can have a real relationship with these ‘pocket pets,’ more than you would have with fish, I think,” Thayer said. “And they don’t require a ton of veterinary care. You just need to become informed about their basic needs prior to buying or adopting them.” Common-sense rules apply when taking an animal into a household with children, Thayer said. “Part of being safe is knowing your pet,” he said. “Little kids are not really people yet, and animals can freak out if children make unpredictable movements or loud noises. There must be close adult supervision with any pet, and even with that you’re taking a leap of faith. An older or sick dog can act out of character, have a medical problem, that can cause behavior problems.” Children and animals both need to be socialized, Thayer said, in order to remain safe. Children must be coached to avoid sudden gestures and learn how to read the signs of whatever animals they approach. Dr. Eve Martin of the Visiting Vet Service comes to households and covers everything from puppy and kitten visits, routine vaccinations, sick visits and elder pet care. Continued on the next page
Temple Beth Shalom Nursery School
From generation to generation ✡ An independent Reform congregation of over 400 families ✡ A nursery school, a religious school, teen programs, an elaborate adult education program, and a strong social action program ✡ Shabbat and holiday services, life-cycle events from birth to bar/bat mitzvah to weddings Please call for information:
478-3833
Temple Beth Shalom 740 North Broadway, Hastings-on-Hudson Email: info@tbshastings.org www.tbshastings.org
We’ll help your child grow.
Call about our exciting programs for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds
2014-2015
We welcome Temple members and non-members to join us for all our pre-school family activities including our Tot Shabbats!
“U-2”
Terrific toddler class for children younger than 2 years and their accompanying adult. Mondays 9:15-10:15am Call for details!
740 North Broadway, Hastings-on-Hudson Judith Michael, MSW, Executive Director of Education & Programming
478-3833
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
Continued from the previous page
She said an advantage of having pets is that children learn to shoulder some of the responsibility for another living thing. Another plus is the “comforting one gets from a dog or cat or even a guinea pig, who no matter what are happy to see you when you come home,” she said. “There are a lot of things going on in children’s lives that adults don’t know about, but the pets do. There’s also the social aspect of having pets — walking your dog or taking your cat to a friend’s house or to show-andtell at school.” Martin suggests that children really begin enjoying their pets and taking responsibility for them at age 5 or 6, although quite obviously a lot of households with pets also include children from infancy and beyond. And, she notes, while parents may think their children will shoulder a majority of responsibility for their pets, that may simply not be the case. “As parents we have to be prepared to be the primary caregiver,” Martin said. “But with older children, maybe 12 and up, then you’re talking about a different situation, particularly if one of the children is keen to have a pet and forms a very strong bond with it.” Households that mix dogs, cats and children can work out very well, Martin said, especially if the animals grow up together and are used to interacting. “You can’t really stop animals from choosing who they want to relate to, after all,” she said. “Cats don’t require a large amount of space, and I tend to encourage people who are getting kittens to get two instead of one. They grow up together and tend to bond very closely.” A fan of guinea pigs for smaller households, Martin said they have “quite a bit of personality, don’t smell bad and are quite fun
to have. I tend to steer new pet owners away from lizards and birds. They’re more for people who have more time and experience, not terribly good choices in terms of something for the kids to look after.” Kirstin Bellhouse is a licensed veterinary technician and manager of the Visiting Veterinary Practice of Westchester. She did not have pets until getting a dog when she was about 12 years old. “One of the primary benefits of having an animal is that it helps you form bonds and friendships,” Bellhouse said. “If you’re lucky to be born into a household with animals, they can be your first friends. Children with pets learn about boundaries and about responsibility. It’s a mini-model of parenthood, really, and of the friendships you’ll form throughout your life.” Bellhouse believes parents should be realistic about what individual children can take on in terms of pet care. “Younger kids can start with chores that don’t have to be done every day — brushing the pet, collecting all the animal’s toys and putting them away,” she said. “Older children can be responsible for feeding — it’s 6 p.m. and before dinner you need to make
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 13A
sure the cat or dog has been fed too.” Bellhouse also stressed that parents are ultimately responsible for everything that happens in the household, including pet care: “Don’t assume that an 8-year-old child is feeding the cat, because the cat will starve if the child doesn’t follow through.” A lot of Bellhouse’s clients schedule vet visits for when the children can be at home. “They want their kids to be active participants in the animal’s wellness,” she said, “and in part because of the youngster’s interest it’s a common thing for children to want to be veterinarians at some point in their lives.” In terms of safety, Bellhouse said parents must ensure that their children and visiting youngsters learn how to treat animals. “Once children are at the age when you can reason with them, teach them what to look for when a cat or dog doesn’t want to play,” she said. “No matter their age, people need to respect an animal’s space and its attitude, and always must be sure that an animal wants to interact with you when you want to interact with it. ‘Stranger danger’ is true for animals as well as humans, so it’s necessary to teach children to ask permission, never reach toward an animal without asking first.” Also a fan of smaller pocket pets, Bellhouse especially likes guinea pigs. “They’re sizable, something a young child, even a toddler, can hold and feel it’s a substantial animal,” she said. “They’re easy to take care of and not exotic, don’t get any strange diseases.” A veterinarian at Central Animal Hospital in Scarsdale, Dr. Donatella Hecht lives in Westchester with her husband, two children, “two cats and a dog named Kevin,” according to the practice’s website. She says it’s an “across-the-board wonderful experience” for children to have pets, “and an
important one. Having pets teaches children some responsibility, that this is alive, a living thing you have to take care of.” Transitioning from the excitement of getting a new animal to the “less exciting but more routine care for the pet is important, but certainly not without its mountains,” Hecht said. “As a parent you have to realize this is going to be primarily your responsibility. Somebody needs to walk the dog — he’s doing somersaults in front of you — and it can be difficult to get the kids out there to do that.” Hecht said she and her husband brought their current dog, “a big mutt who showed up sick at the practice as a 3-week-old puppy,” into their household “because we needed a little bit of light in the house because the loss of our previous dog was so traumatic and so sad. We needed this little guy to come in and open a window.” As she said, “It’s hard and it’s important, very important, for children to mourn when a pet dies. My kids have seen a lot of pets come and go, certainly their share. Don’t try to hide your tears; this is a sad event and everybody’s going to miss a pet that dies. Sometimes the animal is lucky and has a long life and a good death, and sometimes they’re not that lucky and it pulls everybody apart. That’s important, too, how you pick up the pieces and move on from a hard loss.” Hecht said she is “all for pets of all kinds being in the house with small children. But they need to get used to the signals that a pet puts out, whether a dog or cat. My kids are used to determining what’s going to happen depending on how the cat is swishing its tail. Small children just have to be supervised, and often it’s for the pet’s sake as well as the child’s.”
Rivertowns Dental
Dr. Samar Tannous Don’t Forget your Children’s Pre-Camp Dental Check-Ups. Call today for an appointment!
Services Include:
General Dentistry ~ Root Canal Therapy
Cosmetic Dentistry Including:
Bonding, Veneers, Crowns and Bridges Invisalign ~ Teeth Whitening Hours by appointment
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.
Opti A d ve o n a l Trip P nture r o g ra m G ra d e s 3-10
Page 14A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Cute Kids! Anthony Martin
Megan Hartnett
Troy DiLorenzo
Andrew Perillo
Don Anthony DiLorenzo
Ryan Callahan
Sonja Rose Capella
Jason Albert
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 15A
Kids!
Page 16a | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
MaRCH 14, 2014
Making kids art smart and gallery groovy By TrACi DUTTon LUDWiG “It was long,” said the brown-haired girl outside the Metropolitan Museum of art. She drew out her syllables to emphasize the point. “and boring,” her little brother chimed in, “really, really boring.” He slid his belly down the brass railing and couldn’t contain his smile for exhilaration. The parents looked frustrated — tired, too. They wondered if their effort into art’s masterpieces had fallen on dead eyes. “What can you do?” the father shrugged. “Maybe some of it will sink in later on.” What is it about kids and art museums? It seems not to be a relationship of love at first sight; but actually it has nothing to do with the paintings and sculpture. By nature, most children love art. Vivid imagination, keen perception and adept nonverbal expression make them natural visual connoisseurs. Instead, the problem of kids and museums lies in the serious atmosphere and commonly emphasized appropriate manners. Basically, for kids it’s too much quiet looking, worn-out walking, patience stretching listening, repetitive rules of no running and no touching, and way too much time spent. So it’s no wonder little ones can lose sight of the art. But museums and kids are not a lost cause. Make the visit fun; be active lookers; and soon Pablo Picasso, andy Warhol, and Frida Kahlo may be the most coveted playdates on your child’s agenda. Start by talking it up. Children model adults’ behavior and perspectives; so if you bring enthusiasm to the museum, your kids will too. Tell them that you’re excited with anticipation, that you can’t wait to show them special things, and that you can’t believe you’ve finally arrived. If your communication makes kids feel
like they’re in for a treat, that’s how they’ll feel going into the museum. Once there, try to gauge your visit according to realistic attention spans. a good rule of thumb is to plan for only one hour of concentrated time. If you remain longer, there is a fair chance somebody will have a meltdown – and it might be you. If you don’t want to leave after 60 minutes, consider a diversion such as a trip to the café or a sketch pad. Museums’ vast collections often represent days of exploration which would tire most adults, not to mention children. Prioritize what you want to see and focus your effort there, remembering to engage particular works of art rather than just flying through galleries. Older children should be able to manage one or two collection areas, while younger children may only have the attention for a few rooms or even just a handful of individual works of art. Keep in mind, too, that leaving while everyone is happy and wanting more promises excitement for the next visit. To support such frequent and brief visits, most museums offer unlimited-entry memberships, which may also be tax deductible. Once in the exhibition space, stimulate children by making the exercise of looking fun and active. ask lots of questions to get kids talking, and validate their responses. explore paintings and sculpture for the elements of art (line, shape, color, and texture) as well as for stories told and moods expressed. Rather than focusing on “meaning,” an appropriate children’s goal is to meaningfully engage works of art and interact with them using one of several visual games. “eye spy” played in front of individual paintings is a great technique for detailed looking. expand the game from a search for straight objects to include both suggestive details (“I
spy something that tells me this landscape’s season is winter”) and compositional elements (“I spy a diagonal line, a pattern, a repeating shape, etc.”) The latter works especially well with abstract subject matter. another game is to re-tell the story of a painting or sculpture in words. Utilizing children’s direct interpretation, this game suits genre scenes which portray people engaged in activities of daily life. However, it can also be adapted to portraiture (by analyzing what kind of person is portrayed), as well as landscape (by imagining what it would be like to be inside the landscape — time of day, weather, season, etc.) Rather than only using imagination, encourage children to construct narratives from visual clues. ask them, “What about the artwork makes you think that?” If people are the subject matter, especially in sculpture, children may enjoy imitating poses and facial expressions to get in touch with their stories’ “characters.” Deeper involvement with a work of art comes from activating sensory perception. ask children to imagine the sounds, scents, tastes, and tactile sensations of the subject matter. With representational art and still lifes in particular, this activity may take a literal, object based approach — a bowl of juicy fruit, a vase of fragrant flowers, a shiny metal cup — beside softly feathered fowl. With abstract art, however, the questions can be imaginatively adapted and comparatively phrased to motivate insightful perceptions. Would the colors feel hot or cold? If the painting were food, what kind would it be — a sweet lollipop, crunchy cereal, hot soup, creamy pudding, etc.? How would the lines and shapes of the painting feel? If they were a road, what would the drive be like? Is the work of art loud or quiet, shrill or peaceful? If it were music, what would it sound like?
To feel the energy of a work of art, encourage children to look in a new way by asking creative questions. If this were a place, would it be a city, a jungle, an open plain? What kind of hairstyle would this painting be? How would the feeling of the painting change if figures were added to the landscape, or if they were removed? If the season were different? If it were night rather than day? If the person were looking at us? If the person were smiling? If the space were more crowded? If the colors were realistic? as children approach the world through their own relationship to it, try to relate artwork to children’s own creativity. When appropriate, draw concrete connections such as — “This reminds me of the color you used in your drawing; of the book we read; of the collage you made.” To foster further connections, you may want to ask kids to articulate their favorite work of art. Or, ask for their opinions with open ended questions. Your young critics may surprise you with a flood of words if you contemplate a piece and simply inquire, “What do you think?” extend your museum visit by discussing it at home, by identifying elements of art in the surrounding world, by doing a related art activity, or by creating a postcard scrapbook. allowing children to select a postcard souvenir from each visit and pasting it into an album is a nice ritual which creates a visual diary and first art reference book. Children’s own sketches or artistic creations, inspired by either the post card or the museum trip, would further personalize the album. Following up museum excursions with hands-on activities creates pleasant associations which encourage a lifelong relationship with art.
Spring Into SummerDance Register Now
memories that last a lifetime
The Best Summer Ever...
Exciting Weeklong Programs for Pre-School – High School June 29 - August 8 Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop
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.
For more information or to enroll www.steffinossen.org or 914.328.1900 216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606
Bill Bramswig Photography
Special Needs Dance for Children and Adults June 23 – July 3
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
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 17A
How to choose a babysitter Choosing a qualified, responsible, smart and kind babysitter or nanny can seem daunting. While all parents dream of a Mary Poppins falling into their laps, finding the perfect childcare provider usually requires a bit more legwork. “Ensuring your child is in the right hands is something you should do well before a nanny cam gets a chance to reveal something is amiss. Unfortunately, many parents don’t do their due diligence when it comes to vetting babysitters and nannies,” said Darren Dupriest, president and CEO of Validity Screening Solutions, a leading provider of background checks for employers and parents hiring childcare providers. Here are some ways you can be more proactive and thorough in your hiring search: Set up an interview A face-to-face interview is the time to get to know the candidate. Prepare a list of questions to ask, but be open to letting the conversation flow naturally. Remember, not all sitters and nannies will “click” with all children. So if possible, include your child in the interview process to get a better sense of how he or she interacts with the potential caretaker. Check references If you had the family car or leaky faucet fixed, you likely asked neighbors for references for top mechanics and plumbers. Don’t neglect this important, personal outlet in the search for great childcare providers. A tried and true candidate often beats a total shot in the dark. Background checks Even with stellar praise from references, a background check is a crucial step in the
at SUNY Purchase College Enroll by March 15
Pressmaster-Fotolia.com Photo
search. But not all background screening searches are the same. While information from Internet databases can be acquired cheaply and quickly, such websites can leave trusting parents with a false sense of security, as secondhand information can become outdated in as little as five days. A good caregiver screening will search criminal records to identify any felony or misdemeanor, criminal convictions or pending cases involving the candidate, as well as sex offender registries and driving records. It will also provide verifications of claimed past employment, education and certifications. For accurate, current information, opt for a comprehensive background screening service, such as Validity Screening Solutions, which conducts a live records search, going directly to the source of information. More information about what a comprehensive background search entails can be found at www.validityscreening.com. The importance of quality childcare cannot be overstated. Through references, an employment screening and a comprehensive interview, you can be more confident in your selection. — StatePoint
&SAVE $20
per week
Boys & Girls
Ages 4 -16 daily swimming
weekly sessions DOOR TO DOOR
TRANSPORTATION
June 23 - August 22
914.273.8500
fscamps.com
Tennis - Soccer - Football Baseball - Softball - Volleyball Basketball - Academic - Lacrosse (*new) Swim - (*new) Horseback Riding Diving - Circus Arts - Magic - Rising Stars Cheerleading - Multi-Sports - Field Hockey
18 CAMPS
Page 18A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Recess time can reduce risk of nearsightedness
T
wo 2013 studies add to the growing evidence that spending time outdoors may help prevent or minimize nearsightedness in children. A study conducted in Taiwan, which is the first to use an educational policy as a public vision health intervention, finds that when children are required to spend recess time outdoors, their risk of nearsightedness is reduced. A separate study in Danish children is the first to show a direct correlation between seasonal fluctuations in daylight, eye growth and the rate of nearsightedness progression. The research was published in the May issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Nearsightedness in childhood is correctable, but is also linked to development of severe forms of this eye disorder in adulthood, which increases risks for potentially blinding diseases such as glaucoma and retinal detachment. Research on nearsightedness, also called myopia, is intensifying as the condition nears epidemic status in Asia and other regions, primarily in developed countries. In the United States nearsightedness has increased by more than 65 percent since 1970. Though myopia is often inherited, researchers are now assessing environmental factors to help explain why myopia rates are rising so rapidly in some populations. In one of the new studies, an elementary school in Taiwan required its 333 students to spend recess outdoors for a year from 2009-10 so that researchers could learn whether this would reduce myopia rates. A similar school nearby served as the control group and did not require outdoor recess. The children in the intervention school, many of whom had formerly spent recess
indoors, now spent a total of 80 minutes per day outdoors. Students at both schools received eye exams at the study outset and one year later. The results showed that significantly fewer children became nearsighted or shifted toward nearsightedness in the school that required outdoor recess, compared with the control school. The researchers recommend that elementary schools in Asia and other regions add frequent recess breaks and other outdoor activities to their daily schedules to help protect children’s eye development and vision. “Because children spend a lot of time in school, a school-based intervention is a direct and practical way to tackle the increasing prevalence of myopia,” said the leader of the study, PeiChang Wu, M.D., Ph.D., of Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. A separate study on the impact of daylight exposure on eye development analyzed data collected in a 2005 clinical trial that included 235 Danish school children with myopia. The participants were divided into seven groups, each of which represented a different seasonal interval. Because daylight hours fluctuate markedly with the seasons in Denmark, from seven hours in winter to nearly 18 in summer, access to daylight was distinct for each group. Axial eye length — the distance from the front to the back of the eye — and vision were tested in each group of children at the beginning and end of their seasonal interval. Axial length is an important measurement because elongation of the eye indicates that the person’s myopia is worsening. In the children with access to the fewest hours of daylight, eye growth averaged 0.19 mm; in those with access to the most daylight, eye growth was just 0.12 mm.
“Our results indicate that exposure to daylight helps protect children from myopia,” said the leader of the study, Dongmei Cui, M.D., Ph.D., of Sun Yat-sen University, China. “This means that parents and others who manage children’s time should encourage them to spend time outdoors daily. When that’s impractical due to weather or other factors, use of daylight-spectrum indoor lights should be considered as a way to minimize myopia.” American Academy of Ophthalmology The American Academy of Ophthalmology, headquartered in San Francisco, is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons — Eye M.D.s — with more than 32,000 members worldwide. Eye health care is provided by the three O’s — ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians. It is the ophthalmologist, or Eye M.D., who has the education and training to treat it all: eye diseases, infections and injuries, and perform eye surgery. For more information, visit www. aao.org. The Academy’s EyeSmart® program educates the public about the importance of eye health and empowers them to preserve healthy vision. EyeSmart provides the most trusted and medically accurate information about eye diseases, conditions and injuries. OjosSanos™ is the Spanish-language version of the program. Visit www.geteyesmart.org or www.ojossanos. org to learn more. About Ophthalmology Ophthalmology, the official journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, publishes original, peer-reviewed, clinically applicable research. Topics include the results of clinical trials, new diagnostic and surgical techniques, treatment methods technology assessments, translational science reviews and editorials.
Laser toys can cause serious eye injuries Exposure for even fractions of a second to high-powered blue handheld laser devices can cause serious eye injuries, according to a study [1] recently released online in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The researchers have concluded that the wide availability of these devices, which are often marketed as toys, could lead to an epidemic of ocular injuries, and greater public awareness and government intervention should be encouraged. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Laser Institute of America and the American National Standards Institute have all released safety notifications to the public about the risk of injury from handheld lasers with an output power of more than 5 milliwatts. The natural protective mechanisms of the eye — Continued on the next page
FIVE CORNERS NURSERY PROGRAM and
Summer Program Ben Giampaglia, PT, MTC; Lynn Voeste, Barbara Schulz, Abigail Morgan, Owen Moore, Jennifer Philips and Christine Colonna, MSPT. (Not pictured): Janice Nesbeth, DPT
OrthoCare Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation is a well-equipped, outpatient orthopedic physical therapy facility, conveniently located on Saw Mill River Road in Ardsley. All therapists are licensed by New York State and continually update their manual therapy skills and knowledge base to provide their patients with proven and reliable treatment strategies. Patients are assigned to a primary physical therapist to assure continuity of care, and treatment plans are individually designed to meet patient’s specific needs. We provide physical therapy for treatment of overuse and traumatic injuries including, but not limited to: tendonitis, bursitis, sprains and strains, fractures, cervical and lumbar dysfunctions and pre- and post-surgical care. We participate in most major insurance plans including Medicare, workers’ compensation and no-fault. Ample parking is available. At OrthoCare Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, we take great pride in the fact that our No. 1 priority has always been providing patients with superior physical therapy care. Hours: Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.
OrthoCare Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation
www.orthocarept.net
1053 Saw Mill River Road, Ardsley • 693-2350
June & July
2, 3, 4 and 5 year olds
A balanced creative arts & music based enrichment program for 2, 3, 4 and 5 year old children Limited Space Available
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 2014 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
MARCH 14, 2014 Continued from the previous page
such as the blink reflex — are ineffective against these lasers, and severe retinal damage may occur, even after momentary exposure. Studies have also shown that blue lasers are more likely to cause retinal injury compared with green or red lasers. Yet, there are blue laser devices sold widely on the Internet that resemble laser pointers with lower wattages, but actually have an output power of up to 1,200 milliwatts. After witnessing a rise in the occurrence of eye injuries caused by these lasers and to better illustrate the dangers of these devices, researchers in Saudi Arabia documented the case histories of 14 young males, ages 11 to 30, who sought treatment for these injuries from January 2012-January 2013. Each of the 14 patients in the study had sustained injuries to one eye. Four of the patients suffered a full-thickness macular hole (break in the part of the eye responsible for detailed, central vision). Other macular injuries documented in the study included hemorrhages in different retinal layers, a macular pucker (when cells proliferate on the surface of the retina, causing visual impairment), a retinal disruption and a cavity in the retina. Only four eyes (29 percent) improved spontaneously with increase in vision, whereas 10 eyes (71 percent) required intervention, including vitrectomy (surgery in which an operating microscope and small surgical instruments are used to remove blood and scar tissue that accompany abnormal vessels in the eye). “High-power handheld laser devices may lead to an epidemic of ocular injuries that requires attention at different levels,” wrote the study’s authors from the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital Collaborative Retina
Kids!
Study Group in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “The difference between these new high-power laser devices and the low-power pointers cannot be overemphasized and government action such as banning the importation of these high-power handheld laser devices, laws for assault or malicious intent and a general public awareness campaign may be warranted.” The study, “High-Power Handheld Blue Laser-Induced Maculopathy: The Results of the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital Collaborative Retina Study Group,” was published on the Ophthalmology Website. For more information on common eye injuries caused by toys and how to prevent them, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s public education Website, www.geteyesmart.org. American Academy of Ophthalmology The American Academy of Ophthalmology, headquartered in San Francisco, is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons — Eye M.D.s — with more than 32,000 members worldwide. Eye health care is provided by the three O’s — ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians. It is the ophthalmologist, or Eye M.D., who has the education and training to treat it all: eye diseases, infections and injuries, and perform eye surgery. For more information, visit www. aao.org. The Academy’s EyeSmart® program educates the public about the importance of eye health and empowers them to preserve healthy vision. EyeSmart provides the most trusted and medically accurate information about eye diseases, conditions and injuries. OjosSanos™ is the Spanish-language version of the program. Visit www.geteyesmart.org or www.ojossanos.org to learn more.
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 19A
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
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 Patricia Smith 914-648-3535.
Infant Room:
Preschool Room: $318/wk*
(Wait list only)
$376/wk*
Toddler Room: $343/wk*
*Rates subject to change
1 Echo Hills Dobbs Ferry NY 10522 JEWISH EDUCATION The Woodlands Way
Three Paths
at Woodlands Community Temple GAN HAYELED For 3 and 4 year olds, parents and/or grandparents FILE : LittleVillage_ENT_Kids 01.30.14 DATE: joint Mar 14, 2014 GATEWAY Jewish education and affordable membership in CLIENT : and Littlethe Village SIZE: 4.833 6.667 child WCT JCC on the Hudson for families with anxoldest
COPY:
PUBS Thegrade Enterprise - KIDS in :second or younger
STOCK:
NEW LAYOUT:
LAYOUT CHANGES:
K- 12 A nationally recognized program via Gateway and full membership
Open School
for Parents and Students K-2 (Sat) and 3-6 (Sun)
Sat, April 26 and Sun, April 27 9:00 – 10:30 AM • Meet Rabbi Mara Young, Director of Congregational Learning • A project for kids • Tour classrooms • A touch of T’filah • A Kiddush (and nosh) with our clergy
Join us!
50 Worthington Rd, White Plains (Greenburgh), NY 10607
914.592.7070 www.wct.org wct@wct.org
Page 20A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
American Academy of Pediatrics I 2014 Recommendations The effects of bullying are long-lasting The effects of bullying last beyond the time it occurs and can carry over into the future health and well-being of children. A study in the March 2014 issue of Pediatrics, “Peer Victimization in Fifth Grade and Health in Tenth Grade,” (published online Feb. 17) surveyed 4,297 children at three time points (fifth, seventh and 10th grade). The authors found that any bullying at any age was associated with worse mental and physical health, increased depressive symptoms and lower self-worth. But children who experienced bullying in the past and were also experiencing bullying in the present showed the lowest health scores. Researchers found that recent events may be more important than distant ones, and that health consequences compound over time and may remain even after the bullying ends. The authors conclude that this study reinforces the importance of early intervention to stop bullying and to be aware of the need to intervene again, even if the bullying is not ongoing, to address the persistent effects.
Computer feedback can help students with ADHD Neurofeedback, a type of training using a computer program for children with attention-
training. This is the first large randomized controlled trial to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of in-school computer training for ADHD, and the authors identify future research steps to advance this type of brain development.
Can sleep machines be hazardous to babies’ ears?
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can contribute to lasting improvements for these children, according to a study in the March 2014 issue of Pediatrics, “InSchool NeurofeedbackTraining for ADHD: Sustained Improvement From a Randomized Control Trial,” (published online Feb. 17). Neurofeedback consists of giving immediate feedback (both heard and seen) to individuals regarding their attention as they practice focusing. Neurofeedback trains users to monitor and change their brainwave patterns in ways that can improve their attention and executive functioning (a set of skills related
Chiropractic For Life Energize your family through chiropractic care.
to learning and academic achievement). The researchers looked at 102 children and compared their attention and executive functioning after two types of computer training: neurofeedback and cognitive training. These students were compared to students who had no computer training for the study. Compared to no computer training, the children using both types of training had better results in certain areas of attention and learning six months later. The group using neurofeedback showed significant improvements, in more areas and to a greater degree than those who received cognitive
Infant sleep machines can be used to mask environmental noises in busy households or to provide ambient noise to soothe an infant during sleep, but they can also contribute to babies’ hearing loss. In an April 2014 Pediatrics study, “Infant Sleep Machines and Hazardous Sound Pressure Levels,” (published online March 3), the maximum noise levels of 65 sounds in 14 different infant sleep machines were tested at three distances: 30 centimeters (to simulate placement on a crib rail), 100 centimeters (simulating placement near a crib) and 200 centimeters (to simulate placement across the room). All 14 machines exceeded 50 dBA, the current recommended noise limit for infants in hospital nurseries, and all but one exceeded the recommended noise limit even from 200 centimeters away. The findings also determined that regular exposure to white noise through an infant sleep machine on a nightly basis can affect hearing, speech and language development. Even though the maximum output levels were measured in this Continued on The Next Page
The Rivertown Pre-School A unique FULL-DAY creative-arts based childcare program designed to stimulate the growing mind of the pre-school aged child.
Daily Activities Include:
Pottery • Music and Movement • Theater Arts • Science & Nature Hands-on (and in!) Modern Art • Cooking and Baking Imaginative Costumed-Fantasy Play
Program Hours: Daily from 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
3, 4, or 5 day programs available Chiropractic care has been known to improve:
Asthma
•
ADHD
Headaches
•
•
Infant Digestive Disorders
Menstruation Discomfort
Sports Injuries and more! 7 Boulanger Plaza, Hastings-on-Hudson, N.Y. 10706
478-1380 email: nicchiro@aol.com
Located in the Parish Hall of Grace Episcopal Church 78 Main Street, Hastings-on-Hudson For more information about this “Nanny alternative” childcare program please call 914- 478-6181
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER ‘14
ASK ABOUT OUR SUMMER DAYS PROGRAM!! Director Pat Palfy, M.A. in Early childhood • NYS Certified www.TheHomeworkClubProgram.com
MARCH 14, 2014 Continued from the previous page
study, the authors encourage parents to move infant sleep machines farther away than 200 centimeters and to lower the volume to protect infants’ hearing.
Adult talk helps preterm infants improve language Older children who are exposed to only small amounts of adult speech are known to be at risk for language delay. A new study in the March 2014 Pediatrics examined whether the same is true for preterm infants. For the study, “Adult Talk in the NICU With Preterm Infants and Developmental Outcomes,” (published online Feb. 10), researchers recorded 16 hours of adult speech and vocal sounds from infants in the neonatal intensive care unit at Women & Infants Hospital in Rhode Island. Researchers used a Language Environment Analysis (LENA) digital recording device to record adults talking to 36 preterm infants at age 32 weeks, and again at age 36 weeks. Every increase by 100 adult words per hour during the recording at age 32 weeks resulted in a two-point increase in language composite scores at 18 months, and a 0.5-point increase in expressive communication scores. For every 100 adult words per hour at age 36 weeks, there was an increase of 1.2 points in the Bayley Cognitive Composite at seven months, and an increase of 0.3 points in expressive communication scores at 18 months. At seven months, the cumulative adult word count for all recordings was associated with higher cognitive and language composite scores, and receptive communication scores. For 18-month outcomes, adult word counts for all recordings were linked to higher expressive
Kids!
communication scores. Study authors conclude that infants being cared for in the NICU benefit from exposure to adult talk, resulting in both higher language and cognitive scores later in life. Parents should be encouraged to talk to their preterm babies while in the NICU to avoid risk of language delay.
Childhood immunizations save lives, billions of dollars A new economic analysis of the childhood immunization schedule shows it will prevent 42,000 early deaths and 20 million cases of disease, with a savings of $13.5 billion in direct costs and $68.8 billion in total societal costs in a single cohort. The study, “Economic Evaluation of the Routine Childhood Immunization Program in the United States, 2009,” in the April 2014 Pediatrics (published online March 3), used population-based vaccination coverage, vaccine efficacy data, historical data on disease incidence before vaccination, and disease incidence data after vaccination to calculate the lifetime economic impact of vaccinating a hypothetical cohort of all U.S. children born in 2009. The study updates a prior analysis published in 2005. Researchers conclude that from a societal perspective, the average savings per dollar spent on vaccination is at least $10. According to the study authors, “the vaccines currently recommended for young children represent not only a major public health victory in terms of disease prevention, but also an excellent public health ‘buy’ in terms of dollars and cents.” Continued on The Next Page
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 21A
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 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
lowers by Carole Distinctive designs with a personal touch
is happy to introduce
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: flowersbycarole@verizon.net ~ www.flowersbycaroleny.com Lorraine Martin ~ NV Me Gifts ~ 557-1236 ~ email: NVMeGifts@gmail.com 79 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.
Page 22A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
American Academy of Pediatrics I 2014 Recommendations Continued from page 21A
Use of off-label drugs for children Less than half of medications include specific labeling for children, which means pediatricians often must decide what is appropriate to prescribe based on their clinical judgment. In a revised policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers guidance to physicians using drugs off-label. The policy statement, “Off-Label Use of Drugs in Children,” published in the March 2014 Pediatrics (released online Feb. 24), updates a statement that was published in 2002 and reaffirmed in 2005. “Pediatricians must prescribe drugs offlabel, simply because an overwhelming number of critical drugs still have no information on the label for use in children,” said Kathleen Neville, MD, FAAP, lead author of the policy statement and chair of the AAP Committee on Drugs. “This is an even larger issue for special populations of children, including preterm infants and newborns, and in children with chronic or rare diseases.” According to the AAP, a drug’s offlabel status does not imply an improper or experimental use. Health care practitioners caring for children can make therapeutic decisions to use drugs off-label based on expert opinion or on evidence for the medication’s use in a different population. The passage of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act and the Pediatric Research
Equity Act has resulted in more than 500 labeling changes, including expanded labeling that includes pediatric information. According to the AAP, the two laws are an “essential first step” in expanding the evidence on use of medications in children, but more work remains to ensure the best possible outcomes for children. The AAP encourages pediatricians to advocate for research of drugs for children, and supports the publication of drug trials, including negative studies, in academic journals. The AAP also advises that health insurance companies should not use labeling status as the sole criterion to determine
whether a medication is eligible to be reimbursed for use in children. Less expensive medications that are considered appropriate for adults should not be automatically considered as first-line treatment in children.
Evaluating child fractures recommendation updated In infants and toddlers, physical abuse is the cause of 12 to 20 percent of fractures. In a revised clinical report, “Evaluating Children With Fractures for Child Physical Abuse,”
p m a C ic !
tast NAL IO IT D D A N A E V A S
10
% OFF
Book Your Camp Appointment
TODAY!
*
YOUR CAMP TRUNK ...AND FREE LABELING ON ALL CAMP ORDERS
Y OUR ALREAD RICES P D TE N U O C DIS
CAMP & R E M M U S , G O N S P RHIN O R E W ID E ! T S E IS D N A Minimum MERC
THAT’S A TOTAL SAVINGS OF UP TO
40% OFF
*
28%OFF!
purchase of $200 required
FOR DETAILS AND MORE INFORMATION CALL ANY ONE OF OUR STORES!
Scarsdale 914-722-6077 NEW JERSEY: Englewood, Marlboro, Paramus
NEW YORK: Bellmore • Cedarhurst East Northport • Little Neck Oceanside • Plainview PENNSYLVANIA: Huntingdon Valley FLORIDA: Boca Raton, Aventura
*MUST PRESENT THIS AD. Minimum purchase applies. Some exceptions apply. Excludes merchandise discounted 30% off or more. Expires April 13, 2014. Merchandise valid for store credit or exchange.
in the February 2014 Pediatrics (published online Jan. 27), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) describes recent advances in the understanding of which fractures are suggestive of abuse, how fractures occur and medical diseases that may make some young children’s bones more likely to fracture. The report updates a previous report published in 2006. According to the report, rib fractures in infants and toddlers have a high probability of being caused by abuse, as do classic metaphyseal lesions, a type of long bone fracture. Multiple fractures, fractures of different stages of healing and complex skull fractures have a moderate probability of being caused by abuse. However, any fracture can be caused by abuse, and it’s important for physicians to understand the mechanisms of fractures to determine whether a fracture is caused by abuse or something else. Pre-existing medical conditions and bone disease may make a child’s bones more vulnerable to fracture. It is important for pediatricians to take a complete medical history, family history and social history to determine how an injury occurred. Siblings of children who have been physically abused should also be evaluated for maltreatment. When evaluating a child with a fracture, the AAP recommends physicians take a careful history of any injury and then determine whether the mechanism described and the severity and timing are consistent with the injury. Continued on page 24A
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 23A
SUMMER TIME PROGRAMS: MONDAY- FRIDAY JUNE 30- AUGUST 15, 2014
URBAN ILLUSTRATION Summer Edition For artists ages 7-14
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 :
Space, Hours & fees
Canvas Art
Hosted at Farragut Middle School
Art meets nature (design using nature)
Hastings on Hudson
Recycled projects: using old and recycled goods to create new, Inventive art Stenciling/Taping
9:00-1:00 p.m. weekly
8:30 drop off available
$260/ week
Add Water AFTER CAMP A funky Summer Art Enrichment Program COME RAIN OR SHINE! 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 AUGUST 25 through AUGUST 29, 2014
FULL DAY PROGRAM (8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
Hours and Fees
Stay past 1:00 p.m. with
Add Water AFTER CAMP
Airbrush Techniques Skateboard and Toy Design
Contact to register
Katie Reidy
Spray Painting techniques
912.655.9701
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**
[rarigrafix22 ] @gmail.com
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 @gmail.com INFO
[
]
[ 912.655.9701]
GET READY AND SET FOR YOUR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR WITH US!
Urban Illustration September - June Classes run in 8 week sessions.
after-school program providing children with an opportunity to be a creative asset of a very unique community of learners and explorers. Now offering after-school child care plus enrichment workshops. Sign up for daily childcare options offered to grades 3rd - 7th or sign up for any of our workshops offered to 2nd - 5th graders. We spend our after school hours at Hillside school We begin our time with outdoor free play. Once done, we head inside for snack, workshops and homework. Our workshops range from basic science to funky crafts and book writing. Staffed by a group of warm, caring and intelligent professionals, we look to instill positivity, confidence and creativity in your child. Childhood goes by so quickly and it is our mision to help you give your child the best one they can have. Katie and Eryn Reigner Licensed NYS Childcare Providers 912.655.9701
addwaterandstirink@gmail.com
Urban Illustration is a growing class of incredibly talented children. This class is an amazing and fun way to introduce your children to the world of conceptual design and the abstract world of street art. Whether your child wants to make bold loud art or leans toward delicate pencil drawings, this class opens up a world of fantastic art they’ve never seen, or even thought they could create. Using all professional supplies, our focus is on longevity in a project, skill building and imagination expanding. Your children will learn to feel confident in their work, and confident children are better learners. location:
Hillside elementary school
times and days:
3:15-5:00 pm -m-th Open to 2nd- 7th grade -Friday only open to 5th grade and up
6:45- 8:15pm
-thursday only open to 6th grade and up 6:45-8:15 -DAY TBA: only open to anyone 21 and up
All Registration is done online. Please email Katie at rarigrafix22@gmail.com to be put on the email list so you recieve informaton about reigistratiion as soon as becomes available.
Page 24A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
American Academy of Pediatrics I 2014 Recommendations Continued from page 22A
Raw milk products not for pregnant women, children Raw milk and milk products from cows, goats and sheep can transmit life-threatening bacterial infections, yet sales are still legal in at least 30 states. In a new policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises pregnant women, infants and children to consume only pasteurized milk, cheese and other milk products, and supports a ban on the sale of raw milk in the U.S. The policy statement, “Consumption of Raw or UnpasteurizedMilk and Milk Products by Pregnant Women and Children,” published in the January 2014 Pediatrics (released online Dec. 16), reviews evidence of the risks of consuming unpasteurized milk and milk products in the U.S., especially among pregnant women, infants, and children. “Given the progress we have made in prevention, there is no reason to risk consuming raw milk in this day and age,” said Jatinder Bhatia, MD, FAAP, a co-author of the policy statement. “Consumption of raw milk products is especially risky for pregnant women, infants, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly, and the evidence overwhelmingly establishes the benefits of pasteurization on food safety.” Efforts to limit the sale of raw milk products have been opposed by people who claim there are health benefits from natural factors in milk that are inactivated by pasteurization.
However, the benefits of these natural elements have not been clearly demonstrated in scientific research. Numerous data show pasteurized milk provides the same nutritional benefits as raw milk, without the risk of deadly infections including Listeria, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Brucella and E. coli. “Consumption of raw milk or milk products can result in severe and life-threatening illnesses such as miscarriage and stillbirths in pregnant women, and meningitis and bloodborne infections in both young infants and pregnant women,” said Yvonne Maldonado, MD, FAAP, the lead author of the policy statement. “Before pasteurization of milk
began in the United States in the 1920s, consumption of raw dairy products accounted for a significant proportion of foodborne illnesses among Americans, and resulted in hundreds of outbreaks of tuberculosis and other serious infections.” Today, an estimated 1 to 3 percent of all dairy products consumed in the U.S. are not pasteurized. From 1998 to 2009, consumption of raw milk products in the U.S. resulted in 1,837 illnesses, 195 hospitalizations, 93 illness outbreaks, and two deaths. The risks involved with infections due to consuming raw milk are particularly high for pregnant women and their fetuses, as well as for young children.
“Raw milk poses a significant health risk, since the process of obtaining fresh milk from cows and goats can be fraught with risks of contamination both while milking the animals and during storage,” said Mary Glodé, MD, FAAP, a co-author of the policy statement. “Pasteurized milk and milk products are extraordinarily healthy, nutritious and safe for children. We are fortunate to have pasteurized products easily available for our entire population.” The AAP supports the position of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other national and international associations in endorsing the consumption of only pasteurized milk and milk products for pregnant women, infants and children. The AAP also endorses a ban on the sale of raw or unpasteurized milk or milk products in the U.S., including certain raw milk cheeses. Pediatricians are encouraged to advocate for more restrictive laws regarding the sale and distribution of raw milk and raw dairy products.
Tonsillectomy care varies among children’s hospitals More than half a million tonsillectomies are performed every year in children in the U.S., making the procedure the second most common reason for care in children’s hospitals. A study in the February 2014 Pediatrics (published online Jan. 20) found the quality of care of children after a tonsillectomy Continued on page 26A
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 25A
Cute Kids! Coraline Elsa Denny Grace Davis Lindsey Egloff
Ayden Newman
Kieran Hackett
Eye Q Optometrist Orthokeratologist
Your Child’s Vision May Depend On What You Do Now!
Alexandra Nigro
Jimmy Hackett
Westchester’s BEST Summer Camp!
CONCORDIA
Summer Camp 2014
PROGRAMS FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD & GRADES 1–9 • Enrichment Camp • Sports Camp • Slam Dunk Basketball Camp • Concordia Conservatory of Music & Art
Ask Dr. Abraham Zlatin. O.D. about gentle molds kids wear ONLY while sleeping No glasses...No daytime contacts...No Surgery
• Extended Day • Air Conditioned Facilities
1130 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale NY
914.395.4848
The Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center
(914)-472-5932
www.eyeqdr.com
www.concordiasummercamp.org CCollege_4x6_finl.indd 1
12/27/13 8:35 AM
Page 26A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
American Academy of Pediatrics I 2014 Recommendations Continued from page 24A
— and how likely children are to return to the hospital for problems like bleeding, vomiting and dehydration after surgery — varies significantly among hospitals. The study, “Variation in Quality of Tonsillectomy Perioperative Care and Revisit Rates in Children’s Hospitals,” tracked a retrospective cohort of low-risk children undergoing sameday tonsillectomy at 36 children’s hospitals between 2004 and 2010. The study was conducted in collaboration with the Center for Pediatric Clinical Effectiveness at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, through the Pediatric Research and Inpatient Setting Network (PRIS). It was funded by grants from the Children’s Hospital Association and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Health. Children with chronic complex diseases or who were admitted for emergency tonsillectomy were excluded. Researchers assessed the quality of care based on whether hospitals followed current practice guidelines that recommend dexamethasone (a corticosteroid used to reduce nausea, vomiting and pain) on the day of surgery, and no antibiotics. They also tracked how many patients returned to the hospital for problems within 30 days of surgery. Some hospitals provided almost no patients with the recommended dexamethasone and no antibiotics, compared with 91 percent at other hospitals. Of 139,715 children, 7.8 percent had a revisit to the hospital within 30 days, most commonly for bleeding (3 percent) and vomiting and dehydration (2.2 percent). In
some hospitals, however, the revisit rate was 3 percent, compared to 12.6 percent in other hospitals. Older children, between 10 and 18 years of age, were at higher risk of returning to the hospital due to bleeding and at lower risk of vomiting and dehydration, compared to children ages 1 to 2 years. Study authors conclude that substantial variation exists in the quality of care for routine tonsillectomy in U.S children’s hospitals. The data should be useful for hospitals’ tonsillectomy quality improvement efforts, according to the study authors.
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 o d n I Karate
OPEN HOUSE Wednesday March 26th & April 23rd 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 2014 TIME: 12-2:00 pm or stay on until 6:00 pm
For Registration, call Patti or Judith 478-2334
Schedule of screening for well-child visits updated The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has updated its schedule of the screenings and health assessments that are recommended at each well-child visit from infancy through adolescence. The updated periodicity schedule reflects current AAP recommendations for preventive pediatric health care, which are explained in detail in the third edition of “Bright Futures Guidelines
for Health Supervision of Infants, Children and Adolescents.” Under the Affordable Care Act, non-grandfathered health plans are required to cover services that are recommended by Bright Futures (and included in the periodicity schedule), with no cost sharing. Changes include: • Information was added about a specific screening tool to assess adolescents’ for alcohol and drug use. • Screening for depression at ages 11 through 21 years has been added, along with suggested screening tools. • Cholesterol screening between ages 9 and 11 years was added. • A risk assessment for hematocrit or hemoglobin at ages 15 and 30 months was added. • Screening for HIV was added between age 16 and 18 years. • Adolescents should no longer be routinely screened for cervical dysplasia until age 21. • Newborns should be screened for critical congenital heart disease using pulse oximetry before leaving the hospital. The schedule is published in the March 2014 Pediatrics (published online Feb. 24). Future updates to the schedule will be made online periodically. The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. For more information, visit www.aap.org.
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)
GREENLEAF PHARMACY 544 Warburton Avenue Hastings-on-Hudson • 478-0004
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 27A
Look for seal for safe baby products Your children’s safety is your top priority. You heard from the experts and you’ve read the books to ensure you’re providing them with the right clothes and the proper food. But what about the baby products they use every day? How do you know they’re safe? The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), a non-profit association of 250 prenatal through preschool product manufacturers, conducts a certification program to verify the safety of its members’ products. JPMA has operated the certification program since 1976 and its membership includes manufacturers who make 95 percent of the prenatal to preschool products in the market. Member companies are located in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The JPMA Certification Program ensures products meet ASTM standards, state, retailer and Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) testing requirements. Every year, JPMA Certified Products are sample tested for safety, performance and functionality. This assures parents that these products have passed the most rigorous requirements in the industry and meet the highest safety standards. You can see a full list of the products reviewed and certified at jpma.org/certified. “JPMA Certification helps to ease new parent worries and make the product selection process easy,” said Michael Dwyer, CAE (Certified Association Executive), president of JPMA. So how do you know if the products
Community Nursery School of South Presbyterian Church Established 1945 ~ Celebrating Our 68th Year
Inquire About Our Summer Session you see on the shelf have been certified? Products that meet the certification requirements will carry the JPMA seal. The seal can be found on 23 categories of child-needed items ranging from sleep products such as cribs and bassinets, to high chairs, strollers and bathing products. Having one symbol to look for makes it easy to find the right product if you’re overwhelmed by the plethora of choices. When it comes to raising children, everyone from your next door neighbor to your grandmother will pass on advice about the gear needed at all stages of childhood. Add one more item to your arsenal. The next time you’re out shopping for your child, look for items that carry the JPMA seal. You’ll know you’re buying a product that has been thoroughly tested to ensure it provides the safest experience for your little one. To learn more about JPMA and certified products, visit jpma.org. — BPT
Programs for Twos, Threes and Fours • 68 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
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 28A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Rivertowns parent’s Guide I Healthy Kids Motivate children to practice good daily dental habits
bedtime, you can save up to eight gallons of water. Parents and kids can also visit www. terracycle.com to learn how to recycle or upcycle toothpaste tubes. It’s simple to show kids that a healthy smile is an important component of overall health. These smart oral health habits can last a lifetime. — StatePoint
Oral care and cavity prevention are crucial for overall health, and getting kids to put that knowledge into practice is a must. To help motivate kids to take better care of their smiles, experts recommend a number of approaches, resources and tips that parents will find helpful. Good practices The Partnership for Healthy Mouths, Healthy Lives recommends brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day. If you aren’t able to brush between meals, swishing water is a great way to help reduce bacteria that can build up. When choosing toothpaste, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance to indicate it has been rigorously tested for cavity protection. Take a minute to check what’s inside your toothpaste. Many contain ingredients like artificial sweeteners, dyes or preservatives on the label. If you prefer a more natural option, Tom’s of Maine makes the top-selling natural kids toothpaste without any artificial ingredients and no animal testing. Encourage kids to make healthy nutritional choices that promote good dental health, including calcium-rich foods like yogurt, cheese, almonds, oatmeal, and oranges. While skipping all sweets may not be realistic, encour-
Seasons change, so do your child’s asthma triggers
Oksana Kuzmina-Fotolia.com Photo
age kids to limit sugary beverages and candy, and to brush after treats. Get creative, give back A new free downloadable coloring book called “Brushing Fun” is now available to help introduce kids to healthy habits. Each free download will trigger a donation of 10 tubes of Tom’s of Maine Wicked Cool! natural toothpaste to Oral Health America (OHA), a non-profit dedicated to increasing access to oral health care, education and advocacy for all Americans. “Brushing can be fun and it’s never too early to talk with your kids about their oral
Classes are filling up. Reserve your spot now.
health, or too late to try to help shape healthy habits,” said Susan Dewhirst, goodness programs manager at Tom’s of Maine. The coloring book, which can be personalized with a child’s name, offers games, puzzles, tips and facts about oral care, as well as a story that encourages kids to appreciate nature. The free coloring book is available for download at www.TomsofMaine.com. Go natural While you’re caring for your teeth, don’t forget to also take care of the earth. According to the EPA, by turning off the tap while you brush your teeth in the morning and before
Across the country, 25 million Americans are living with asthma. As the winter months come to an end and the spring makes its arrival, the change in seasons can be problematic for adults and children with asthma. It’s important for asthma patients to understand the triggers of each season to prepare for symptoms as the temperature changes. Asthma patients know the symptoms: coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing and tightness in the chest. The cause of these symptoms is inflammation or swelling of the large and small airways in the lungs. During an attack, the airways become narrower and tightened, making it hard to breathe and reducing the flow of oxygen to other parts of the body. During colder months, it’s important to know that seasonal asthma triggers exist both indoors and outdoors. Outdoor activiContinued on the next page
Nurture Nurture talent talent in in your your child child Hudson Hudson River River School School of of Music Music
Give Your Child a Great Start at the GHC Early Childhood Center
For children 2 years old as of December 31st, 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! 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.
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
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
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.
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 29A
Continued from the previous page
ties paired with cold temperatures can put adults and children with asthma at greater risk for asthma attacks. Staying inside can also be problematic because unexpected triggers like indoor dust, animal dander, mold and even wood-burning fireplaces can cause an asthmatic to experience uncomfortable or dangerous symptoms. In addition to environmental triggers, cold and flu viruses can be a serious problem for people with asthma. Asthmatics are not more likely to contract the flu virus, but because they may have swollen and sensitive airways in the lungs already, contracting the flu may cause further inflammation and trigger symptoms. With spring on its way bringing warmer temperatures, asthmatics have new triggers to pay attention to. Allergens from flowers and trees and the change in temperature can trigger an attack in people with asthma. “Asthma is a condition that requires attention year-round,” said Dr. Nemr Eid, a pediatric pulmonologist from Louisville, Kentucky. “Patients should be aware of their seasonal triggers. It’s important that I maintain communication with my patients and keep them on-track with their asthma management plans from season to season.” Being smart about asthma management includes working with your health care professional (HCP) to create an asthma action plan that can be adapted to the season. This potentially life-saving tool includes notes for what to look for during an attack, emergency contact information and proper treatment methods. To download an asthma action plan, visit www.GetSmartAboutAsthma.com. The Get Smart About Asthma website serves as an educational center for patients and care-
WESTCHESTER MAGAZINE
Winner ~ 2010 • 2011 • 2012 ~ “Best Place To Throw a Party”
givers to find important asthma-related information such as types, triggers and treatment plans. Asthma symptoms and severity varies from person to person. While some require treatment with a rescue inhaler for the quick onset of symptoms, others use a controller medication for daily asthma management, which can help prevent symptoms and reduce the use of a rescue inhaler. Knowing and implementing the method for treating asthma symptoms is something every person with asthma should be familiar with. Patients should work closely with their HCPs to identify a treatment plan that works for them. Before seeing a doctor, visiting www.GetSmartAboutAsthma.com can help inform and prepare patients for their asthma treatment discussion. — BPT
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 / 2 014
Our Parties are ALL INCLUSIVE !!! WWW.LIFETHEPLACETOBE.COM
914.591.4400 2 LAWRENCE STREET, ARDSLEY, NY 10502
Page 30A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Rivertowns parent’s Guide I Healthy Kids School lunches are gold mines for recycling, reusing and replenishing
If eating right is a challenge, it may be because you are trying things you simply don’t like. The key is finding options that satisfy your taste buds, say experts. “Taste is a major influential factor driving what you eat and feed your family, so it’s important to strike a balance between foods you like and those that provide the nutrients you need,” said Glenna McCollum, registered dietitian nutritionist and president of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “Taste and nutrition are not mutually exclusive.” March is National Nutrition Month, an excellent annual reminder to take the time to evaluate your diet and your family’s diet and make positive changes you can sustain longterm. As part of the “Enjoy the Taste of Eating Right” theme, McClollum is encouraging Americans to return to the basics of healthful eating by combining taste and nutrition to create meals that follow the recommendations of the “2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.” With that in mind, McClollum is providing some expert tips on how to eat right and enjoy it: • Love sandwiches? Swap out white bread for whole grain to up your fiber intake. Instead of mayo, use avocado as a rich addition to your sandwich. It’s more flavorful, and it’s also full of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, as well as other nutrients. To stay fuller
(BPT) - From an early age, children can roll up their sleeves and get involved in helping reduce the amount of trash they produce by participating in recycling programs. Across the country, children will celebrate Earth Day April 22 with science fairs and environmental educational seminars about the importance of recycling. When children start recycling early in life, they’re more likely to continue that behavior as they get older - and pass the practice on to their own kids. Recycling is a growing program in households, cities and schools across the country. In fact, Americans recycled 82 million tons of materials in 2009 - the most recent year for reported data, and that number keeps increasing, according to Keep America Beautiful. School programs are a great way to not only promote recycling in younger generations, but also to create a fundraiser for the schools. This year, as Earth Day approaches April 22, schools can organize aluminum can drives and participate in cash-for-schools programs based on recycling lunch packaging. One such program is The Recycle...Reuse...Replenish Earth Day Campaign which encourages school children to recycle their Entenmann’s Little Bites Pouches with TerraCycle, resulting in cash back to the school.
longer, include fiber-rich veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers. • Balance. While there’s always room to indulge, be sure that the majority of your calories are sourced from vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, fat-free or low-fat dairy, beans, nuts and seeds. You’ll be filling up on all the nutrients your body needs without all the extra calories. And don’t forget to limit added sugars, salt and saturated fats. • Don’t skip dessert. Many diet fads will encourage you to skip dessert, but doing so can seem like a sacrifice, which won’t make for a sustainable change. Instead, seek out treats that provide nutritional benefits. For example, mango blended with low-fat milk and a splash of pineapple juice will satisfy your sweet tooth, while giving you a dose of calcium and vitamin C. • Spice it up. A great, low-calorie way to
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Westchester’s highest quality programs for over 30 years.
Where Every Student is Special
SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS
Dance Intensives June 25 - August 15 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
Register in Full by March 31st and
Receive 20% OFF
723-2940 • 450 Central Park Ave • Scarsdale www.centralparkdance.com ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
National Nutrition Month: Evaluate your family’s diet
add flavor and nutrition to meals without the fat, sugar or salt, is by incorporating beneficial herbs and spices, such as cardamom, turmeric, cinnamon cumin, thyme, basil and oregano. Citrus juices are another great addition to recipes. • Ask for advice. Whether you need to lose weight, want to reduce your risk for disease or just want to improve your family’s overall health, consider consulting a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), who can translate the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. Your RDN can help you plan healthy, delicious meals. For more tips on healthful, tasty eating and to find a RDN, visit www.EatRight.org/nnm. This National Nutrition Month, don’t just eat for your health, eat for your happiness. Take steps to find foods that are not only nutritious, but taste great too. — StatePoint
r e m m u S tage
Continued on the next page
CLOCKTOWER PLAYERS at MERCY COLLEGE
S
Six weeks of Theater Arts Training and Fun!
Kids •Jr Teens •Teens
JUNE 30 –JULY 18 | JULY 20 – AUGUST 8 Each session culminates in a one-of-a-kind showcase
Register Today! clocktowerplayers.com
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 31A
CHRISTIAN PRE-SCHOOL Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church
43 Ashford Avenue • 693-0026 dfchristianpreschool@yahoo.com www.dfchristianpreschool.org “NURTURING FAMILIES & FAITH FOR 4 DECADES”
Registering Now For 2014 - 2015 Continued from the previous page
In addition, here are some more recycling, reusing and replenishing tips, perfect for school children to promote every lunch day at the school. Recycle: * Know your numbers - Teach your children to look for numbers and recycling symbols on plastic containers to know which containers can be reused through a recycling program. * Sign up for cash back programs - Sign up your school for the TerraCycle program if it’s not already registered - and have your children recycle their Little Bites pouches each lunch hour. Visit www.terracycle.com/en-US/ brigades.html to find a listing of other lunch items TerraCycle collects. Reuse: * Keep the container - Send your children to school with their daily sandwich packaged in a reusable container they can bring home and use again the next day. Let them decorate the
container to make it a personal item to show off at lunch. * Craft material supplies - Before throwing anything away, teach your children to think about how the material might be reused in a crafting project. TerraCycle provides several do-it-yourself project ideas at www.terracycle. com/en-US/do-it-yourself-projects.html. Replenish: * Have leftovers? - Set up a compost pile at home, and give your children a lesson in biodegradable foods. Ask them to bring leftovers that are biodegradable home in their sandwich container to add to the compost pile. * Grow new lunch materials - Give your children a small garden to plant and tend that contains their favorite vegetables. Show them how beneficial their lunch compost is for growing those plants they can eat at future lunches. Entenmann’s will be giving away weekly prizes, including Little Bites coupons home
• A High Quality, Affordable Preschool Experience • Programs Available for Children Aged 2-4 • Kindergarten Readiness : Academic, Social and Emotional • Balanced Curriculum Allows Time for Meaningful Indoor and Outdoor Play • Daily Rotating Schedule Includes Separate Discovery and Music/Story Rooms • Community Service Projects Empower Our Children to Help Others • Experienced and Dedicated Staff • Partial Scholarships Available For Qualifying Families • Inclusive Environment Fostering Empathy for God’s World and its People
Summer Program 2014 June 30 – July 25, M-F, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Continued on page 32A
Call the Office for Registration
SUMMER CAMPS
WEEKLY & DAILY RATES AVAILABLE
MINI CAMP
HOCKEY CAMP
FIGURE SKATING CAMP
Learn to Skate / Hockey / Figure Skating
JULY 7 - AUGUST 29
JUNE 23 - AUGUST 29
JUNE 9 - AUGUST 29
CAMP PACKAGES INCLUDE :
CAMP PACKAGES INCLUDE :
Pre-School to Age 8
Skill Development, Dyna Mites,
Skating Lessons, Zumba, Modern
DAILY ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
Power-Skating, Puck Magic,
Dance, Jump & Spin, Ballet,
Mad Science, Super Soccer Stars,
Shoot To Score, Defensive Skills,
Yoga, Pilates, Conditioning,
Legos, Skate with Character,
Guardians of the Net, Elite Jr. &
Training, Footwork,
Fire Truck, Magician, Arts & Crafts,
Sr. Camp, Champion Week
ICE SHOW & MUCH MORE!
Movement & Music Classes
RT. 9A | 91 Fairview Park Dr. Elmsford, NY 10523 | 914-347-8232 | www.SkateWSA.com
Page 32A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Rivertowns parent’s Guide I Healthy Kids Continued from page 31A
render them useless or dangerous. “Rusty metal gate hardware that no longer functions properly or becomes a threat to children is a top homeowner concern, according to our research,” said Jim Paterson, senior vice president of D&D Technologies, which manufactures gate latches and hinges made of ultrastrong engineering polymers. Eliminate this worry by installing high-quality fencing impervious to seasonal weather, ground settling and other factors that can cause gates to become misaligned over time. Opt for gate hardware that can be easily adjusted to function properly over the long-term. For example, some models of TruClose self-closing tension adjustable hinges are vertically and horizontally adjustable. Additionally, be sure to install pool barrier access gates with adjustable self-closing hinges like TruClose and self-latching gates where the latches are out of the reach of children.
improvement gift cards for starting an Earth Day garden, and a $5,000 cash grand prize through a sweepstakes link at www.facebook. com/Entenmanns. Register your school now for a chance to win the prize and build a beautiful Earth Day garden. Help teach your children the importance of the three R’s: recycle, reuse and replenish. The earlier they start, the more likely they’ll be to participate the rest of their lives.
Year-round backyard safety tips Your backyard is a space where you enjoy quality time with your family all year long. But accidents can happen anywhere — even in the oasis of your backyard. For parents, taking extra safety precautions out back should be just as important as childproofing done indoors. To prep and maintain your yard for outdoor safe play and relaxation, here are several important steps: Lawn Remove tree stumps and level concrete footings to avoid tripping. Lawn debris such as rocks could become projectiles when cutting the grass. So be sure to clear the yard. Additionally, children should never be nearby while you’re using motorized equipment. Store potentially dangerous tools, equipment and chemicals completely out of the reach of children, such as in a locked shed or garage. Fencing A yard without a fence is like a house with-
Sun Protection
ChristinGasner-Fotolia.com Photo
out walls. Fences help protect children from danger, keeping toddlers out of swimming pools, hot tubs, ponds or away from traffic or strangers. Fences can also improve pet safety, keeping your pets in your yard and other ani-
COME TO...
affordables AND SAVE!
A quality children’s consignment store. Discover what your neighbors already know!
10% OFF WITH MENTION OF THIS AD (expires 3/28/14)
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, Limited Too, Abercrombie, Carter’s, OshKosh and Quiksilver
10 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry • 693-3610 Regular Hours: Mon-Sat, 10-5pm, Thurs 10-6pm Closed Mondays July & August
mals out, and can reduce your liability by preventing injuries to uninvited guests on your property. With that in mind, be sure your fences and gates are functional and free of rust that can
When the sun is bearing down, skin can be susceptible to burns and permanent damage year-round. And children’s skin can be even more sensitive to harmful UV rays. Your yard should have plenty of shady areas to seek respite. Plant trees and watch them grow. Install a canopy. Adorn patio furniture with an umbrella. Your backyard can be one of the most exciting places for your children to play through the entire year. A little prevention along the way will keep it safe and fun. — StatePoint
Kids!
MaRCH 14, 2014
safety first: Make television safety part of your childproofing plan Have a new flat panel TV? Where will you put your older cathode ray tube (CRT) TV? For many families, when a new TV comes into the home, the old bulky TV often moves to a child’s room, basement or other location where it could pose a serious safety hazard. every 45 minutes in the United States, a child is rushed to the emergency room for a TV tip-over injury, and every three weeks a child dies from a television tipping over, according to a 2012 Safe Kids Worldwide report. If an unsecured TV tips over, it can seriously injure or even kill a small child, and kids younger than 5 are especially at risk. “We’re asking families to add one important, and perhaps overlooked, task to their childproofing efforts,” said Kate Carr, president and CeO of Safe Kids Worldwide. “Take a look around your home. Can the flat panel TV tip over? Have you moved the old CRT to a bedroom dresser where it rarely gets watched? If you aren’t using it regularly, get it out of your home. The best solution is to recycle it.” Safe Kids Worldwide and the Consumer electronics association (Cea) are teaming up to make homes safer by encouraging families to recycle older CRT TVs. Safe Kids and Cea advise parents and caregivers to do quick checks of their homes and make sure all their TVs are safely secured and properly placed. Children can easily pull a flat panel TV off an entertainment center or table. Larger and heavier CRT TVs placed on dressers or high furniture can tip over and cause serious injuries, even death, if children climb onto the furniture.
Safe Kids encourages families to include TV safety as part of their childproofing plans by placing CRT TVs on low, stable pieces of furniture. If families no longer use their CRT TV, consider recycling it. For families with flat panel televisions, Safe Kids recommends mounting TVs to the wall to reduce the risk of TV tip-overs. Safe Kids and Cea recommend these top tips to help keep kids safe: • Secure your TV. If you have an older CRT TV, make sure you place it on a low, stable piece of furniture that is appropriate for the TV’s size and weight. • Recycle your TV. To find a location to safely and easily recycle unwanted TVs, go to www.greenergadgets.org. • If you’re replacing your CRT TV with a new TV, be sure it’s properly secured. For more home, family and child safety tips, visit www.safekids.org. — BPT
FULL TIME 7:30AM - 6:00PM
*
18 MONTHS - 5 YEARS
914-693-2980 A dynamic childcare program with a strong emphasis on each child as an individual in a caring kind environment. We use a progressive approach that integrates a variety of enrichment programs such as foreign language, creative movement and nature. Your child will reconnect with nature on our natural playground which enhances imaginations and creativity.
* “Finally a quality daycare you can afford!” Serving the community since 1972 Open 12 months a year Web site: www.daysofwonderchildcare.com
Director: Jennifer Dawber Licensed by NYSOCFS Non-Denominational
343 BROADWAY, DOBBS FERRY, NY 10522
ThE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 33a
Page 34a | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MaRCH 14, 2014
Travel time: 5 sure-fire steps for a great family vacation
I
t’s no secret that families are busy these days. Between Mom and Dad’s careers, the kids’ school demands and extra-curricular activities, quality time together as a family is hard to come by. This busy lifestyle is inspiring a new travel movement, and 2014 is positioned for the grand rebirth of the family vacation. If you want to take an unforgettable family vacation this year, the idea of planning might seem overwhelming. But travel experts agree that planning ahead and researching your options are important steps to ensure your trip is stress-free and full of fun. Follow these five steps to plan a trip your entire family will love and remember for years to come:
cultural enthusiasts can experience beautiful art museums and plantations; golfers tee off at a one of the many championship courses in the area. From water parks to natural wonders, Myrtle Beach is a true gem for family vacations. Visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com to learn more. step 4: Select your ideal accommodations Whether you’re vacationing for a long weekend or multiple weeks, it’s important to choose the right accommodations for your family. For example, if you know you’ll be at the beach daily, stay at a shore-side resort. If you want to save on eating expenses, look into condos with kitchens. For big groups such as family reunions, consider a beach house that allows everyone to stay in their own room within one shared space.
step 1: Make a travel wish list Kick off your travel planning by talking to all family members about what they’d like to see and do on vacation. Keep it light-hearted and have some fun — chat with your 4-yearold over breakfast or text your teen after school. as you have these conversations, notice commonalities, such as location and experiences. step 2: Research, research, research after your initial conversations with your family, it’s time to do your research. The Internet has made selecting a travel destination that much easier — or harder because there are so many options. Check out tourism organizations, such as a Chamber of Commerce or Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB). Look up online hotel and travel reviews — these sites can provide invaluable information for travelers. Many sites even
have free online travel planners or visitor’s guides. step 3: Choose a destination for everyone Perhaps the most important consideration when planning a family vacation is to select
a destination that has something for every person in your group. Myrtle Beach, S.C. is a great example of a location that is great for all ages. The 60 miles of pristine beaches are just one reason to visit — foodies can indulge on the best Southern and low-country cuisine;
step 5: Create a fun-filled itinerary This is a vacation, and while you shouldn’t plan out every hour of every day, having a basic itinerary gives direction to your trip and will help your group build excitement prior to your departure. Plus, planning ahead allows you to seek out deep discounts on tickets to shows and theme parks like the alabama Theatre or Wild Water & Wheels in Myrtle Beach. You can even explore free activities like festivals and celebrations in the area that would be worthwhile to attend. If you feel like it’s time for your family to take a break from the stress of everyday life, a family vacation might be just what everyone needs. Follow these steps to select a family friendly destination to ensure a vacation full of unforgettable memories. — BPT
Summer at Exceptional ballet training in a creative atmosphere Outstanding professional faculty July 5-Week Intensive for ages 8-12 Daily classes in Ballet, Pointe, Solo Variations, Contemporary, Choreography, and Character Studio Performance July Afternoon Mini-Camp for ages 3-5 and 5-7
Diana White, Artistic Director purple
green
orange
PMS 267
PMS 368
PMS 173
CMYK c = 89 m = 100 y=0 k=0
CMYK c = 57 m=0 y = 100 k=0
CMYK c=0 m = 69 y = 100 k=4
RGB r = 73 g = 47 b = 146
RGB r = 122 g = 193 b = 67
RGB r = 232 g = 109 b = 31
WEB #492f92
WEB #7ac143
WEB #e86d1f
FINAL
FEB 8, 2010
SchneidlerInitialsCS-Regular
696R White Plains Rd. Scarsdale (914) 725-8754 www.scarsdaleballetstudio.com
diverse st riding e lessons dvantage questrian Teams, ng year30am to and the
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 35A
Cute Kids! Matthew Perillo
Connor Palomo
Olivia Reilly Roca
55 stalls s, heated me to the Program chooling am while
g teams, thing for "Where
Xavier Schmitt
TWIN LAKES FARM
Grace Palomo
Twin Lakes Farm is Westchester’s largest and most diverse equestrian center, offering both boarding and a robust riding academy.Martin The riding academy starts at ageLila 6 with private lessons Charlotte Salvatorelli before moving up to groups; adults ride daily and take advantage 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.
Joseph Perillo
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 and a robust riding boarding andeach a robust riding academy. The riding academy starts at age 6 with private leshosting nine USEF shows year.boarding academy.sons The riding academy starts at age 6 with private lessons before moving up to groups; adults ride daily and take advantage of the 8pm adults-only before moving up to groups; adultsadults ride daily and take advantage Whether it's children's lessons, lessons, riding teams, classes. For the moreclasses. serious equestrian Twin Lakes Farm offers Drill Teams, Interscholastic Teams, of the 8pm adults-only For the more serious equestrian showing competitively orSummer recreational riding there is something for Horseshowing and Leasing while also offering Twin Lakes Farm offers Drill Teams, Interscholastic Teams, year-round boarding. Camp is coeducational 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 docks withcamp hayhorseshow. feeders, heated tack rooms and wash stalls. The North Barn is home to the Riding
T
ost 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 s 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, lessons, riding teams, showing competitively or recrewww.TwinLakesFarm.com adults 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 55 stalls ome to the s, heated g Program me to the schooling Program team 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 ething 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
oF
the county
oF
Westchester PArks, recreAtion & conservAtion
Page 36A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
Can tablets for toddlers teach them more than tapping? By CATHY COLLYER, OTR, LMT Watch any family with young children in a restaurant or on an airplane and chances are that at least one child under 5 is playing with a tablet, merrily tapping away. There is an equally good chance that at least one of the parents at that table is concerned that using an electronic device may not be the best thing for their child. Can both parties be satisfied? The answer is not easy, but it is simple. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended limiting screen time to less than two hours per day for children over 2, and none for children under 2. Many experts further recommend limiting individual sessions to less than 30 minutes for children under 5. The AAP does not discriminate between tablets, DVDs and television. AAP recommends limiting use because electronics don’t allow manipulation of real objects or help develop social and language skills, and children are sitting still for long periods. This is a serious issue; no toddler should be so attached to a screen that they do not get enough interaction with the physical world and with other people. At-risk children with developmental delays or home environments that do not have positive social or language models are especially vulnerable to the negative effects of electronic exposure. For typically developing children who have a range of activities, this is not a significant concern. Yet everyone has witnessed an ugly toddler meltdown after the tablet has been put away or refused. Tablets offer the potential for more interaction and creativity than watching DVDs or television. The apps can reward them for
paying attention, trying advanced play levels and thinking outside the box. They do have limits in what kind of social, language and physical skills they can promote. For children 2-5, there are simple methods to transform tablet use into a dynamic learning experience. Step 1: Pick the right app. Young children cannot search for apps, so adults are in control of what apps are available. Select apps that provide educational experiences, opportunities for multiplayer interaction or creativity. If an adult has played the app with their child, they have the opportunity to determine if there is an appropriate level of challenge blended with entertainment. The right app can be far more creative than the best educational video. Apps that entertain without allowing a child to use his
imagination can have the same benefit as a distracting DVD or television program would provide: electronic babysitting. Step 2: Use a nonslip stylus to develop pencil grasp. A smooth metal or plastic shaft is harder to hold and control, leading to the use of a fist rather than fingertips. Young children can hold a stylus that is made just for their hands. Some nonslip surfaces also have contrasting colors that show kids where to place their fingers. Dragging icons using a rubber stylus tip or accurately tapping tiny items will build hand control and strength. Step 3: Angle the screen. By using a 20-30 degree wrist angle rather than placing a tablet flat on a table, a child will build forearm, wrist and finger control that prepares them to use the correct arm positions for handwriting. Even without using a stylus, reaching forward
on an angled surface will encourage better finger control. Tablet cases should hold the device very securely, as toddlers are known to use extra force when they get excited. Step 4: Establish good habits. Just like snacks, children can accept that they are not entitled to unlimited tablet time. It is easiest if ownership of the devices is clearly the parents’; therefore children are offered “turns.� Children are also expected to ask for more access than they actually will receive. Parents have the responsibility of setting limits that work for their values and goals. Some families reward positive behavior with more tablet time, and others choose to set firm limits on use regardless of their child’s behavior. Having parents that model healthy electronic use is especially important for older preschoolers. They may even appreciate hearing that a parent is “taking a break� or has “had enough for now.� Step 5: Examine non-electronic choices. If the tablet is the most exciting toy a child has, they may need new or more challenging toys and activities when “unplugged.� A new sport, a new multiplayer non-electronic game or an art project might be the best alternative. Or a child may need more faceto-face interaction with peers and adults. Insistence on tablet use can tell parents that it is time to explore the range and quality of non-electronic play in a child’s life. Cathy Collyer, OTR, LMT is a licensed pediatric occupational therapist specializing in fine motor development and handwriting remediation in the lower Westchester area. She performs evaluations and treats children in their homes. She can be reached at 282-2326.
YOUR COMMUNITY ART SCHOOL CENTRALLY LOCATED IN WHITE PLAINS
Summer Art Classes for Kids Portfolio Development Art Institute for Teens Lego Camps Debate and Public Speaking REGISTRATION BEGINS: APRIL 4
MIND. BODY. SPIRIT.
Summer at Westfield 6 WEEKS ~ JULY 8 - AUGUST 14 TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM ~ GRADES 6-12 CREATE YOUR OWN SUMMER EXPERIENCE: Academic Remediation / Enrichment Regents Review and Preparation • SAT Tutorial Computer Graphics • Creative Arts Program Westfield Book Club • Fitness Series Young Writers Club • Guitar Tabs and Techniques Minecraft • Therapeutic Support as needed Linking Education and Emotional Support Since 2000 23 Purdy Avenue, Rye, New York 10580 (914) 967-2530 www.westfielddayschool.com
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
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
K-12 ALL SUBJECTS K-12 ALLSUBJECTS SUBJECTS K-12 K-12 ALLALL SUBJECTS • 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 • 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 • 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 “ Th““““ •• 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 TThhD • 3!4 s ,%!2.).' $)3!"),)4)%3 eEE hheeeG D G GEEyo “ TheeT yyo G ouur ch G EED yo yo G EEDyo s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' ch ilch uEurErch dililddild s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' s 2%'%.43 s 2%!$).' 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 s to SSUUCCCCEUECE C ED C ED EE s -!4( s 72)4).' EE CD ED s -!4( s 72)4).' E!â€? s -!4( s 72)4).' s -!4( s 72)4).' !â€?!â€? !â€? s -!4( s 72)4).' !â€?D s -!4( s 72)4).' DC !â€?C 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 #/,,%'% %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 Visitususat: at:EliteTutors.net EliteTutors.net Visit VisitusVisit usat:at:us EliteTutors.net EliteTutors.net Visit EliteTutors.net Visit us at:at:EliteTutors.net
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 37A
Westchester Sandbox Theatre promotes education, entertainment Since 2010, the Westchester Sandbox Theatre in Mamaroneck has provided the Westchester community with a variety of performing arts programs and events that enrich the soul and engage the mind. In such a short time, WST has built a reputation for quality, success and entertainment. The heart of WST lies with its Young People’s Theatre program, which is open to performers in grades k-12. Each year, WST produces over a dozen shows starring young performers. Each show is fully and professionally produced, and young performers get the opportunity to work with professional directors, designers and musicians as they learn the art of theater — music, dance and acting. With three age groups — kids, tweens and teens — WST provides focused instruction as well as an experience that each performer will not soon forget. In the coming months, WST will hold auditions for its kids/tweens production of the tap dancing spectacle “42nd Street,” its teens production of the hit Disney musical “Aida,” as well as a kids only production of “Doctor Dolittle.” All of these shows audition in March and April with performances in May and June. WST also provides young performers with other opportunities to be on stage. Acting classes run throughout the school year, and for those who like to set their imaginations free over the summer, WST has its highly regarded Summer at the Sandbox summer day camp, which runs in two sessions in July and August. WST has also earned praise for its Mainstage
Mention or bring in this ad, and receive a special gift from MCW when you sign up!
ummer S d e c n e ri e p x E r e Neve
Like This
! y a d o T l l o r n E MMER 2014
You’v
SU
MULTIPLE MUSIC PROGRAMS
DEDICATED INSTRUCTORS
HAPPY STUDENTS
series, shows that are produced with professional actors both from the area and from New York City. Recent hit productions have included “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change,” “The Full Monty” and “Next To Normal.” The Westchester Sandbox Theatre is owned and run by Daniel Ferrante, executive director, and Jason Summers, artistic director. Call 630-0804 or visit www.wstshows.com.
M C W 216 Central Avenue, White Plains 914.761.3900 • info@musiced.org •www.MusicConservatory.org
Summer
Fun and Friends Day Camp atNew JCC on the Hudson... at a JCC Camp Summer doesn’t get any better! JCC Country Day Training Camp Training Camp
~ Ages 2-2.5 Ages 2-2.5 Super
A two-day program of games, songs, sprinkler fun and playground activities.
Little Friends ~ Ages 2.5-4.5
Grades 1-6 Seniors ~ Ages 11-13
A two-day program of games, Campgrounds feature Same asa Country Day plus weekly songs, sprinkler funactivities and three-pool complex, outings, late-night activities at camp playground activities for all-purpose sports court, and a youngsters. ball fields, hiking trails, three-day, two-night adventure! boating and petting zoo.
SPECIALTY CAMPS
Three to five days of water play,Little Friends Camp BaShemesh music, art, nature, special guests Ages 2.5-4.5 Camp-to-Go Ages 6-14 with special needs Three to five days of water play, music, art, and theme weeks!
nature, special guests and One-week theme weeks! program. Inclusion model program for kids with special
Bigger Friends ~ Ages 4.5-5 entering Kindergarten
Travel to differentneeds. sitesA each day.day with sports, typical camp
All the fun of Little Friends plus off-site adventures. Theme days, swimming, archery and more! Offers an Bigger FriendsGymnastics Camp Israeli culture, art, music, gymnastics, swimming and more! adaptive physical education component. Ages 4.5-5 entering Kindergarten
One-week All the fun of Little Friends plus off-site program of uneven bars, balance Super beam, trampoline, tumblingSeniors and skill refinement. culture, art, Campgrounds feature a three-pool complex, all-purpose adventures. Theme days, Israeli music, gymnastics, swimming and more! Ages 11-13
JCC Country Day ~ Grades 1-6
sports court, ball fields, hiking trails, boating and petting zoo.
INTRODUCING ... One-week Camp Intensive
outings,and late-nightNature activities at camp and a ~ Ages 6-14 with specialOpen needs House Sports or Art three-day, two-night adventure! Sunday, May 20, 11am-noon 8/18 8/22 ~ Two Tracks Inclusion-model program for kids with special needs.
Same activities as Country Day plus weekly
Camp BaShemesh
Campers ages 2-5 years Sports or Arts & Nature A typical camp day with sports, swimming, archery Open House and more! Offers an adaptive physical education component. Sunday, April 15, noon Enroll now! Campers ages 6-14 years Call for tours and information. Celebrating On-site Open Houses Country Day & Camp BaShemesh
Sundays at Noon: 4/6, 5/4, 6/1
914.366.7898
Individual tours for Little Friends and Bigger Friends camps available.
Call 914.366.7898 or visit jcconthehudson.org for info. Learn, grow, be your best
www.jcconthehudson.org
Kids!
Page 38A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
MARCH 14, 2014
Cute Kids! Juliet Stanton Emily Martin Theodore John Schlecht
Andrew Stanton
Michael Salvatorelli
Brooke Weizner
Juliana Zatkovich * VE n per SA 100 Tuitio w cam qualify $ Camp r a ne 014 to C te 2
C is 1, on J ou reg arch 3 y n yM whe ister b Reg
JCC of Mid-Westchester
Summer Camps 2014 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.
Exciting Options and Programs for all Campers!
Joseph Distefano
Westchester Head Lice Removal Services/Salon - Since 1997 The Original Lice Expert of Dobbs Ferry
Dale Longworth
· 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
WHERE CAMPERS PURSUE THEIR PASSIONS
Summer Arts Center
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
*A new camper is defined as a camper who has never attended a JCC summer camp in the past. Cannot be combined with any other offers.
“Go Green” & Natural Products Used Kills Bugs & Eggs in 30 Minutes 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
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 39A
t The Rivertowns Enterprise 2014 t
Preschool Guide ALCOTT MONTESSORI SCHOOL
ARDSLEY METHODIST CHURCH NURSERY SCHOOL
27 Crane Road Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914) 472-4404 Maria Francella, Site Director
525 Ashford Ave. Ardsley, NY 10502 (914) 693-0204 Diana R. Virrill, Director
535 Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693-4443 Sarah Marinelli, Site Director
Philosophy: We offer a warm and accepting atmosphere where each child’s individuality is encouraged within the group setting. Class time consists of free play with opportunities for exploring special subjects. Circle time is held daily for discussions and stories. We have a weekly music program with “Miss Mary Ellen and her guitar.” Emphasis is given to one-on-one time with teachers and groups that encourage social, emotional and intellectual growth. Our large outdoor facility provides space for climbing houses, swings and a substantial flat surface for “big wheels,” tricycles, scooters and cars.
46 Fox Meadow Road Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914) 595-7551 Maria Francella, Site Director www.alcottschool.org Mandy Price-Landivinec, Director Philosophy: Alcott School encourages each child to reach his or her full potential while acquiring respect for self and others. The children are provided with opportunities to develop independence, self-confidence and pride in their individual abilities. The developmentally appropriate program offers a unique multicultural learning environment complete with a full range of Montessori materials. Enrollment: Crane Road: 150 children; Dobbs Ferry: 180 children; Fox Meadow: 60 children Student-teacher ratio: Toddlers, 4:1; 3’s to 5’s, 7:1 Calendar: September through June. Six- or seven-week summer program for toddlers and 3- to 5-year-olds Hours: Scarsdale: Toddlers, 9-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3 p.m.; 3’s to 5’s, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., or 8:45-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3:15 p.m. or 8:45 a.m.-3:15 p.m.; Dobbs Ferry: 3’s to 5’s, 8:45-11:30 a.m. or 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m. or 12:30-3:15 p.m.; Toddlers, 9:15-11:45 a.m. or 1-3:30 p.m.; Fox Meadow: 3’s to 5’s, 8:45-11:30 a.m. Fees: Half day, 3’s to 5’s, $8,050; full day, 3’s to 5’s, $16,420; 2’s fiveday program, $11,550; other fees vary according to program Special programs: Early drop-off available from 8 a.m.; enrichment including music, movement and nature/science; after-school art, science, cooking, soccer and more;
Enrollment: 25 children Student-teacher ratio: 6:1 parent activities and workshops day and evenings; family picnics. Summer programs are available for 2-5-year-olds. Times and dates are flexible. Call for information or visit www.alcottschool.org. Other: Registered with the NYS Department of Education. Licensed by the NYS Office of Children and Family Services. Affiliated with the American Montessori Society
ARDSLEY COMMUNITY NURSERY SCHOOL 21 American Legion Drive Ardsley, NY 10502 (914) 693-4932 www.acns.us Dr. Gloria Wolpert, Director Philosophy: We develop and expand each child’s unique interests through creative and fun activities. Language and social skills are worked on to build self-esteem and pride in accomplishment, as well as respect for diversity. Pre-academic skills
are incorporated along with a strong art, music and science enrichment program. Our goal is to foster a love of learning and friendly community. Enrollment: 2’s, maximum 9 children; 3’s, maximum 16; 4’s, maximum 16 Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 3:1; 3’s, 6:1; 4’s, 8:1 Calendar: Follows regular school year, Sept. 15-June 6; June interim program for three weeks; summer camp for six weeks, late June to Aug. 6 Hours: 2’s, 9-11:30 a.m.; 3’s and 4’s, 9-11:45 a.m.; also 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. day care Fees: $30/day drop-off; three-day, $525/month; five-day, $625/month; camp fee, $1,200/summer. Special programs: Inclusive nursery school for children of diverse abilities and backgrounds. Other: Accredited by New York State.
Calendar: Mid-September through end of May Hours: 9-11:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.2 p.m. Fees: Three days, $4,100; four days, $4,300; five days, $4,500 Special programs: Music, art, science Other: Creative storytelling, daily outside play
AROUND THE WORLD CHILDREN’S CENTER 522 Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 479-0762 Hilary Tucker, Director Philosophy: We are a prekindergarten and after-school program with a special interest in cultural diversity and world traditions. We’re committed to providing high-quality, homebased care in a warm and nurturing environment that engages the imagination. We offer flexible continued on page 40A
Page 40A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The Rivertowns Enterprise 2014 I Preschool Guide
Hours: 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
children to explore and discover the world around them. Our days are filled with music, play, cooking, dance, and so much more. Your child will reconnect on our natural playground, which enhances imagination and creativity. Since we are located in the heart of Dobbs Ferry our children enjoy walks through town, exploring the riverfront and parks, and visiting the library. Our home-away-fromhome atmosphere along with our home-cooked meals create a feeling of warmth and nurturing for both the child and parent.
Fees: $10/hour, $5/hour for second sibling who attends at the same time
Student-teacher ratio: Toddlers, 4:1; 3’s, 6:1; 4’s, 7:1
continued from page 39A
scheduling, school pickup, homemade lunches and snacks, and an array of age-appropriate activities and experiences, explored in a pressure-free environment within a variety of cultural traditions. Enrollment: Maximum 14 Student-teacher ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Open most holidays and snow days; closed Dec. 25-Jan. 1, Feb. 18-22, July 4-Sept. 3
Special programs: In celebrating diversity, Mandarin Chinese and French languages are introduced through song and play and incorporated into our daily life. Other activities include yoga, cooking and tasting, gardening and lots of outdoor play and nature exploration. Other: New York State licensed
CHRISTIAN PRE-SCHOOL Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church 43 Ashford Ave. Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693-0026
Enrollment: 44 children
Student-teacher ratio: Busy Beginners: 4:1; 3’s and 4’s, 6:1 Calendar: September through June; separate summer program during the month of July Hours: School year: 9:15-11:45 a.m.; summer: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fees: Available from our office or call for a brochure Special programs: Chapel, visitors (community helpers, music, special events, etc.), Kreative Kids Club, Fit Kids Club, Dance with Ms. Michelle, early drop-off program. Other: In-house celebrations and events related to our unit themes
www.dobbsferrylutheran.org Sharon Brennen, Director Philosophy: At Christian PreSchool, we believe your child should explore and discover God’s world in a safe, loving environment with kind, caring teachers as role models. We recognize the importance of each individual’s impact in the larger community, and so we encourage a child’s empathy for others and help them experience the importance of caring for the world God created. We offer your child a balance between the need for play as well as exciting opportunities for learning through hands-on activities. Our goals are for your child to have an assurance of God’s love, a belief in their individual abilities, a yearning for further learning and an independence that enables decision-making and verbalization of ideas. We welcome all families to our doors. Enrollment: 50-60 children
COMMUNITY NURSERY SCHOOL 343 Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693-9072 cnsdobbsferry@aol.com www.cnsdobbsferry.com Linda Jo Platt, Director Philosophy: Young children learn by doing. For over 60 years, Community Nursery School has offered a developmentally appropriate curriculum in all areas of the young child’s development. Our school provides a caring, highly qualified staff; a separation policy allowing parent and child a chance to feel comfortable here; a place to be a part of a group learning, playing, participating and sharing; a magnificent outdoor play area where children are free to explore nature and expand their social and physical development and growth; an indoor play area
for those young muscles that need to move in all kinds of weather; and The Creative Curriculum®, our blueprint for planning and implementing a program which helps children acquire social competence and the skills they need to succeed as learners. Enrollment: 110 children Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 5:1; 3’s, 6:1; 4’s, 8:1 Calendar: September through first week of June Hours: 8:45-11:45 a.m., or 12:303:15 p.m. Fees: 2014-15: two morning 2’s, $3,570; three morning 2’s, $4,900; three morning 3’s, $4,750; three afternoon 3’s, $3,800; four morning 3’s, $5,460; five morning 3’s, $6,070; four afternoon 4’s, $5.610; five morning or afternoon 4’s, $6.270. Special programs: Nature, movement. Extended day for 3’s and 4’s through Creative Ways Inc., an exploratory art and lunch program. Optional bonus weeks in June. Summer camp.
DAYS OF WONDER CHILD CARE PROGRAM Oak Street & Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693-2980 www.daysofwonderchildcare.com Jennifer Dawber, Director Philosophy: At Days of Wonder we know the importance of learning through experience. Our dedicated teachers create a stimulating yet relaxed environment, which enables
Calendar: 12 months a year, fulltime five days a week Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Fees: Available upon request Special programs: Creative movement, nature, foreign languages, art enrichment Other: Licensed by the Office of Children and Family Services
ELMWOOD DAY SCHOOL 900 Dobbs Ferry Road White Plains, NY 10607 (914) 592-8577 www.elmwooddayschool.com Jane Arcaya, Director Philosophy: We follow New York State Common Core Learning Standards with a focus on an engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Elmwood creates an environment which allows each child to feel safe, known, comfortable and accepted. Call to arrange a visit. Enrollment: 85 children ages 2-6. Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 4:1; 3’s, 6:1; 4’s, 7:1; pre-K, 7:1; kindergarten/first grade, 7:1 Calendar: September through first week in June Hours: 9 a.m.-noon; 1-4 p.m.; mini-day until 2 p.m.; full day 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Fees: Vary according to number of days enrolled and age of child Special programs: Vacation week programs, enrichment programs, tutoring (K-12). continued on page 41A
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 41A
The Rivertowns Enterprise 2014 I Preschool Guide GREENBURGH HEBREW CENTER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
continued from page 40A
FIVE CORNERS NURSERY PROGRAM
515 Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 479-1421 gloria@g-h-c.org
18 Farragut Ave. Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706 (914) 478-2334 fivecornersprogram@gmail.com
www.g-h-c.org
www.hastingspreschool.com
Gloria Smith, Director
Mary Cahill, Director Philosophy: Our “home-awayfrom-home” nurturing environment will enrich and secure your children’s journey through their early childhood years. Enrollment: 45 children Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 5:1; 3’s, 4’s and 5’s: 7:1 Calendar: September through June, plus summer camp Hours: 8:45 a.m.-noon Fees: Available upon request Special programs: Music, movement, cooking, as well as our popular mostly 5’s class. Also offers The Beginner’s Club, a creative arts-based, funfilled after school enrichment program uniquely created for kindergarteners and first graders. Call or email for more information. Other: National Association for the Education of Young Children.
THE GODDARD SCHOOL 1 Jackson Ave. Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706 (914) 478-1390 www.goddardschool.com Christina Rodriguez, Director Philosophy: Goddard School is dedicated to providing an environment where teachers
support the nurturing and learning children want and need, where children are offered the opportunity to develop their natural curiosity and creativity and where they can develop a lifelong love of learning. Enrollment: For children 6 weeks to 6 years old
takes place through the child’s own actions as he/she interacts with materials, teachers and peers in the classroom. Our aim is to enhance learning in all areas: cognitive, social, emotional, physical and moral. Enrollment: 92
Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 5:1; 3’s 7:1, 4’s, 8:1
Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 5:1; 3’s, 6:1; 4’s, 8:1
Calendar: Full year
Calendar: Mid-September through mid-June
Hours: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Fees: Vary with age
GOOD SHEPHERD EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 25 North Broadway Irvington, NY 10533 (914) 591-4104 IPCGSECC@aol.com Sasha Wilson, Director Philosophy: We believe that knowledge for young children is best acquired through the experience of exploration and discovery. Concept development
Hours: 2’s Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Friday, 9:30-11:30 a.m.; 3’s three days, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9-11:45 a.m.; 3’s five days and 4’s five days, 9-11:45 a.m.; extended day 4’s Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 11:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 3’s Thursday, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 4’s art Thursday 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fees: 2’s, two days: $3,550/school year; 3’s, three days: $4,415/school year; 3’s five days and 4’s five days, $6,100/school year. Optional extended day extra Special programs: Extended days for 3- and 4-year-olds. Children bring lunch and have a special afternoon program. In the morning we have music specialists, yoga and the nature of things. Sign language for the 4-year-olds twice a month. Other: Licensed by NYS Office of Children and Family services. Registered with University of the State of New York. Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Philosophy: Children are imbued with a natural curiosity that can be used as a springboard to learn new skills necessary for the success in school and in life. Since young children learn best by doing, our projects are experiential and open-ended, are integrated through play and focus on the process rather than the product. All activities are age-appropriate and incorporate various learning styles, giving children the opportunity to demonstrate problem-solving skills, explore at their own pace and benefit from a wide variety of educational experiences. Student-teacher ratio: 2’s, 4:1; 3’s/4’s, 7:1 Calendar: September through June Hours: 3’s/4’s, 9-11:45 a.m.; 2’s, 9-11:30 a.m. Fees: Tuition listed first is for member, second for nonmembers. Ask for tuition incentive rates and membership options. Twoday 2’s (Tuesday/Thursday), $3,121/$3,672; three-day 2’s (Monday/Wednesday/Friday), $4,530/$5,330; five-day 2’s/3’s/4’s (Monday through Friday), $6,181/$7,273. Special programs: Our Judaic and secular curriculum offers Jewish traditions, values, holiday celebrations and weekly Shabbat, social action and charity projects, as well as a nurturing, partnering with parents atmosphere. Our curriculum includes, but is not limited to our partnership with Hudson River Museum located in Yonkers, music, yoga, science and nature and monthly special events. We welcome children of all religions. Other: You & Me! is a free-tonewcomers six-week mommy and me class beginning on March 20, 10-11 a.m. continued on page 42A
Page 42A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The Rivertowns Enterprise 2014 I Preschool Guide TEMPLE BETH SHALOM NURSERY SCHOOL
continued from page 41A
HASTINGS NURSERY SCHOOL — THE CO-OP
740 North Broadway Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706 (914) 478-3833
7 Farragut Ave. Hastings-on-Hudson, N.Y. 10706 (centrally located at the 5 corners) (914) 478-3777
www.tbshastings.org Judith Michael, Executive Director of Education and Programming
www.hastingsnurseryschool.com Cindy Nibur and Irene BalintWemer, Directors Philosophy: A place where children and their families are valued! Hastings Nursery School promotes social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of young children. Its highly trained staff and parent board believe that the real work of a preschooler is through play and exploration. Therefore, the school offers both hands-on and minds-on activities that guide each individual child to reach his or her fullest potential. Our age-appropriate curriculum, learning centers, enrichment programs, a large playground, input from the parents and a nurturing staff open avenues for learning on a daily basis. Social and emotional growth are at the core of our program. Feeling good about who you are opens doors for others to enter, as well as allowing an individual to grow. Teaching children to value themselves as well as others and the world they live in is vital. Enrollment: 50 children
expanded to include both creative and interactive activities. The three major areas of learning are practical life, language and phonics, and mathematics. Every day there is free play, snack and circle time. Computer SMART Boards, music and physical education classes are incorporated into the schedule. Enrollment: 29 children Student-teacher ratio: n/a Calendar: September through June Hours: Five full days or five half days (morning session) or combo of three full days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) and two half days (Monday, Friday). Early dropoff and extended day available Fees: Moderate Other: Children of all faiths welcome
Calendar: September to June Hours: 5 days per week, 8:45-11:30 a.m.; extended day until 2:30 p.m.; 8:15 a.m. early drop-off available Fees: 2013-14: two days, $3,650; three days, $4,840; five days, $6170. Extended day: one day, $1,300; two days, $2,500; three days, $3,660; four days, $4,600 Special programs: Nature, music, movement, yoga, field trips, summer camp
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION PRE-KINDERGARTEN SCHOOL 16 North Broadway Irvington, NY 10533 (914) 591-6614 icprek@optimum.net www.iccirvington.catholicweb.com Victor J. Presto, Director Philosophy: Our prekindergarten classes are academically oriented incorporating Montessori materials into the curriculum, which is
JCC EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM 371 South Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 366-7898 5 Leroy Ave. Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 366-7898 www.jcconthehudson.org Barbara Davis, Director
Philosophy: The JCC Early Childhood Program provides a stimulating and nurturing environment in which each child develops socially, emotionally and cognitively. We maintain a developmental curriculum emphasizing Emergent Curriculum and concentrating on hands-on experience, experimentation and creative expression. Jewish values, culture and holidays are an integral part of our curriculum. Parent participation is a valued part of the program. JCC is a not-for-profit agency serving all families/persons
regardless of religion or ethnic background. Enrollment: 75 children
Student-teacher ratio: Low student-teacher ratio
Calendar: September through June. Summer day camp available
Hours: Young 2’s, 9:10-11:00 a.m.; 2’s, 9-11:45 a.m., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 3’s, 9 a.m.-noon, 9 a.m.1:15 p.m., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 4’s, 9 a.m.noon, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 8-9 a.m. for 2’s, 3’s and 4’s, 3-6 p.m. for 3’s and 4’s Fees: On request
Special programs: Specialists in music, creative movement, nature, sign language, soccer and karate. Afternoon enrichment for 3’s and 4’s includes children’s literature, art, cooking, science and building.
Other: Licensed by Westchester Department of Children and Family Services
THE RIVERTOWN PRE-SCHOOL 78 Main St. Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706 (914) 478-6181 Pat Palfy, Director Philosophy: We are a creative arts-based program that nurtures the uniqueness of each child in an atmosphere of respect, trust and support. Enrollment: 18 children Student-teacher ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Year-round Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Fees: Upon request Special programs: Dance, pottery, multicultural art, music, gymnastics and various field trips. Most specialists are local artists. Other: Licensed by NYS Department of Social Services
Philosophy: The Temple Beth Shalom Nursery School offers a remarkable opportunity for preschoolers to have playful, hands-on creative learning experiences that encourage the growth of their own uniqueness. In our warm and nurturing setting, our developmentally appropriate practices are designed to meet the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of our young students while responding to the needs of their families. Enrollment: Approximately 50 children in our program that has a 2-year-old, a 3-year-old and a 4-year-old class. We are currently enrolling for the 2014-15 school year. Student-teacher ratio: Call for details. Hours: 2’s, Wednesday through Friday, 9:15-11:15 a.m.; 3’s, Monday through Friday, 9-11:30 a.m.; 4’s, Monday through Friday, 9-11:45 a.m. Fees: Please contact the school. Special programs: Cultural enrichment through music, art, sign language, yoga and creative movement. Nature education in our park like setting. Science workshops. Rewarding parent involvement through social activities and education workshops. Celebrations of Jewish holidays and traditions with the temple’s rabbi and cantor. During the school year, the temple also sponsors an afterschool activities early childhood program, providing enrichment in music, science, creative arts, special holiday celebrations and workshops, as well as additional June programming. Weekly “U2” infant/toddler class. Many family programs to help meet before- and after-school needs. Other: Our teachers are members of the Jewish Education Project/ Jewish Early Childhood Association and the National Association of Education for Young Children.
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 43A
Cute Kids! Mia Stanton
A.J. Zappia Frank Salvatorelli
Tommy Thompson
Ryan Vulpone
Adriana Zatkovich
Katie Vulpone
Payton Newman
You’ve read the books on pregnancy and baby care. You’ve signed up for Lamaze classes…
But are you ready for your new role as a parent?
...Westchester’s Outstanding Day Camp...
In Scarsdale, NY Ann Rose Simon, LCSW BabyBonds is an innovative and effective program developed by psychotherapist Ann Rose Simon, LCSW that prepares parents for the emotional challenges they will inevitably face when their baby arrives.
A SUMMER TRADITION FOR 86 YEARS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 3-13
BabyBonds is based on the idea that parenting is a complex new role that doesn’t always come naturally. • There’s a whole new family dynamic after the baby comes, even for couples who have had a child • Couples often need help nurturing and redefining their own relation ship and baby-proofing their marriage. • Parents can learn to read baby’s cues and promote optimal brain development in their baby.
Baby Bonds
Baby Bonds
BabyBonds is a dynamic and customized program. Parents can choose from a variety of services, including: • Pre and postnatal counseling to prepare for changes in family roles and relationships • Videotaping and follow-up discussion of parent-infant interaction A Program forgroups Newwhere and Expectant A Program for New and Expectant Parents • Discussion you can share Parents experiences, meet other new parents Since 1929, the Libman Family has been providing children and gain confidence in your parenting skills. Be the best parent you can be! Be the best parent you can be!
with active, safe and memorable summers. Camp Hillard
BabyBonds canPost-natal help you toCounseling maximize your capacity to bond with your baby. and Post-natal offers a complete program that uniquely combines learning Pre-natal and Pre-natal Counseling Ann Rose Simon, LCSW 914 723-0197 ARSimonMSW@aol.com
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 information packet and consultation.
Baby Bonds
skills while having fun, with spirit, tradition and first-class facilities. Brambach Avenue FOR2Scarsdale, INFORMATION, CALL (914) 949-8857, NY 10583 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CAMPHILLARD.COM
One Family
Baby Bonds
Three Generations
Est. 1929
Page 44a | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MaRCH 14, 2014
Whitby school: Topnotch instructors and fun get ready for a super summer at Whitby School’s Summer 2014 Camp. You won’t believe how good Whitby’s instructors are… until you see what your kids can do. Whitby’s summer program offers a unique lineup of activities for summer fun for children ages 3-11, taught by experts in their field who specialize in working with children. “What distinguishes Whitby Summer Camp is simple — the quality and experience of our instructors, who work with children year-round,” said Kurt Putnam, summer camp director and Whitby’s director of athletics and co-curricular programs. The camp runs for six consecutive weeks beginning June 16, the first week consisting of the New York giants Football Camp, and ending the week of July 21 on Whitby School’s beautiful 25-acre backcountry greenwich campus. The camp runs five days a week from 9 a.m.-noon (no camp on July 4; the week is prorated). Some of the activities include: • Model airplanes, bridge building and electronic gadgets through Sciensational Workshops for Kids (www.sciensational.net); • Theater with Allyn Bard Rathus, professionally trained actress and Whitby teacher with a Master of arts in educational theater (www.allynrathus.com); • Chess instruction through Grand Masters adnan Kobas and Ian Harris; • Tennis instruction through USTA Certified Fairfield County Tennis Instructors (www.fairfieldcountytennis.com); • Kung Fu through Sensei Tom McCusker and former world champion Matt Lupidas (www.cmaec.com); • Soccer camp with Greenwich High School
Long ridge school: building a 21st century student
Whitby School Summer Camp offers a wide range of activities. varsity coach Kurt Putnam and Fairfield University soccer coaches Javier Decima and Rich Williams (www.cardinalsoccercamps. com); • Montessori camp for children ages 2-4, taught by Whitby’s expert early childhood teachers; • New York Giants Football Camp featuring giants heroes and professional coaches (www.NYgiantsCamps.com). additional information, including online registration information, is available on the Whitby School website at www. whitbyschool.org/summer2014.
Whitby School is an independent school in backcountry greenwich, Conn., developing fearless achievers from 18 months through eighth grade who are engaged in learning and inspired by discovery. Whitby is the founding school of the american Montessori Society and is triple-accredited by the american Montessori Society, the International Baccalaureate and the Connecticut association of Independent Schools. For more information, contact John Palomaki, director of communications, at jpalomaki@whitbyschool.org or (203) 3023952. Visit www.whitbyschool.org/faaw.
Fact: Fact:
a Time Magazine cover story, “How to Build a Student for the 21st Century,” identified four areas essential for students to become successful citizens in a globalized world: Thinking outside the box, becoming smarter about new sources of information, developing good people skills and knowing more about the world. although the discussion about 21st century skills is often reported as breaking news, The Long Ridge School curriculum has been graduating students with these four skills since its founding in 1938. The Long Ridge School is an independent coeducational school for 2-year-olds through grade 5, just 1 mile from the New York border in Stamford, Conn. Long Ridge works with each child’s natural curiosity to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills and believes children should explore, experiment and experience the joy of learning in a caring and challenging academic community. Small classes that span two-year age groupings allow students to work at different levels within a single class, while providing individual attention. The school’s greatest strength is the expertise and dedication of our faculty. The Long Ridge School faculty averages 17 years’ teaching experience and over 75 percent of the faculty hold advanced degrees in education. The classroom teachers are supported by specialists in art, music, science, Spanish and physical education. Long Ridge students are motivated, successful individuals who score well on nationally administered achievement tests and graduate well prepared for a lifetime of learning. Visit www.longridgeschool.org or call (203) 322-7693.
Many Westchester children are challenged by poverty.
They arrive at school unprepared to learn.
Westchester Jewish Community Services
Parent-Child Home Program
sends our youngest Students off to Kindergarten with the skills to achieve academically.
To volunteer, to donate, or for further information about the Network of WJCS programs for Children visit us at www.WJCS.com or call 914.761.0600x219 WJCS • 845 North Broadway • White Plains NY • 10603
MARCH 14, 2014
Kids!
Evaluating the mid-year report card When your child brings home his or her mid-year report card, it is important to read it carefully and take note of a number of key areas. And with the Common Core State Standards going into effect this school year, Eileen Huntington of Huntington Learning Center reminds parents that report cards may look different this year than in years past: “The report card format may change from last year, as states roll out report cards that are aligned to the Common Core State Standards. As you evaluate your child’s report card, keep in mind the following: • Understanding the report card format is critical. If your child’s teacher did not provide an explanation of the report card format that is being used, be sure to request one so you are clear on how your child is being evaluated. The newly enhanced report card structures that many schools are now using are not only aligned with state standards (Common Core), they also are supposed to provide parents a more meaningful assessment of their children’s progress. • Effort and comprehension are areas of focus. One major change with the introduction of Common Core is the greater emphasis on critical thinking skills. Those changes will very likely be reflected in the report card, which will not only assess a student’s detailed content knowledge, but also his or her demonstrated understanding of higher-level concepts and more. Pay attention to these marks, as they are a significant measure of students’ performance moving forward with the new standards. • Progress toward mastery of grade-level standards is the new norm. While every school district may be different, parents across the nation can expect report cards — particularly in the elementary grades — to measure students’
growth over the course of the school year, not just the term for which they are evaluated. As such, it is important that you understand the different progress indicators and what any numeric codes used actually mean regarding your child’s achievement of grade-by-grade benchmarks. • It’s all about college and career readiness. The Common Core State Standards were created to ensure all students graduating from high school are capable of succeeding in college-level classes and in their careers. That overarching purpose is reflected in the details of your child’s report card by showing what a student is expected to know and your child’s progress toward those targets. Keep that in mind as you read through your child’s report card. • As always, contact your child’s teacher with specific questions. “The great thing about Common Core and the way teachers will now be assessing students is that there is a bigpicture goal in mind,” Huntington said. “This creates a perfect opportunity to notice your child’s strengths and progress, while keeping an eye on areas to work on.” For over 35 years, Huntington Learning Center has provided quality instruction to hundreds of thousands of students. They tutor in academic skills, such as reading, phonics, math and study skills; and in advanced math and science subjects ranging from algebra through calculus and general science through physics. They also prepare students for state and standardized entrance exams, such as high school entrance exams and the SAT and ACT. Learn more about Huntington at www.huntingtonhelps.com. For information on franchise opportunities, visit www.huntingtonfranchise.com.
The RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE |Page 45A
Summer Theatre with Westchester’s Theater for Children and Teens
The Play Group Theatre ®
6 week , 3 week & 1 week T heatr e Camps Shows & Acting Classes—now and all year long
(914) w w w.
946-4433
playgroup.org
h 27t rsary e v nni
Teaches Basketball Camp, LLC
A
Teaches invites you to scorch the nets with us this summer! NY Knick Tim Hardaway, Jr.
Highlands MS White Plains June 30-July 3
NY Knick J.R. Smith
NBA 2012-13 "6th Man of the Year" Irvington HS July 7-11
Toronto Raptor Steve Novak
C Cornerstone
C
C Children’s Center Kindergarten on Deck
A program specially designed for children who miss the Kindergarten cutoff or who need the opportunity to enhance their preschool skills before entering Kindergarten
Enrichment Program - Before and After School Care A program for children Kindergarten - 2nd grade
Enrollment Now Open! 472-6300 90 Garth Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583 www.cornerstonechildrenscenter.org
2011-12 NBA 3-point FG% Leader Blind Brook HS, Rye Brook July 21-25
2013 NBA All-Star David Lee
Horace Greeley HS, Chappaqua Aug. 11-15
More Local Camps Yorktown HS ........................ July 7-11 & Aug 4-8 “Shooting” Camp ................. July 21-25 Armonk “Five Star Basketball" ........... July 28-Aug 1 Chappaqua Irvington .............................. June 30-July 3 & Aug 11-15 Cortlandt .............................. Aug. 18-22
For free brochure or more information call TEACHES headquarters at 914-238-0278 or sign up via PayPal at
www.teacheshoops.com
Page 46A | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
“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”
“Only The Best Become Legends” 579 Broadway • Hastings-on-Hudson • 478-1500
(Opening Spring 2014)
3’ 2” 3’ 1”
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 14, 2014
Kids!
Celebrating 23 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
On Hudson Fitness & Dance Studio Jazz • Hip-Hop • Lyrical • Contemporary • Modern Tap • Pre-School • Princess Ballet • Pointe • Classical Ballet
ALL DAY SUMMER KARATE CAMPS and FULL WEEK DANCE INTENSIVE begins June 30th.
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 | RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE
Kids!
MARCH 14, 2014
NUMBERS TO KNOW
Compliments of Better Homes and Gardens/Rand Realty... Please Refrigerate Immediately!
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Goddard School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings Co-op Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rivertowns Pre-School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Temple Beth Shalom Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
478-2334 478-1390 478-3777 478-6181 478-3833
IRVINGTON Good Shepherd Early Childhood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-4104 Immaculate Conception Pre-Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .591-6614
Schools-Parochial
John Cardinal O’Connor School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .591-9330
Schools-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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Business Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Springhurst Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
693-1506 693-1500 693-1503 693-7640 693-7645
HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS Superintendent’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hillside Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Farragut Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
478-6200 478-2900 478-6270 478-6230 478-6250
IRVINGTON Superintendent’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dows Lane Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
591-8500 591-6012 591-9494 591-8500
911
Emergencies (all villages) Poison Control Center
800-222-1222
Ambulance, Fire, Police
Transportation
Bee Line Bus Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 813-7777
(non-emergency numbers) ARDSLEY Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DOBBS FERRY Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2344 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2344 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2344 IRVINGTON Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-5151 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9867 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8080
693-3673 693-1700 693-1700 693-5500 693-3000 693-5500
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 648-3535
From New York City . . . . . . . . 212-532-4900 From all other areas . . .1-800-METRO-INFO
Libraries Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greenburgh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greenburgh (children’s) . . . . . . . Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
693-6636 693-6614 721-8200 721-8227 478-3307 591-7840
Hospitals
Emergency Rooms Dobbs Ferry Pavilion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-5187 Phelps Memorial Hospital Center . . . . . . . . . 366-3590 St . John’s Riverside Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 964-4349 White Plains Hospital Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 681-1155
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
Schools-Private Hackley School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 631-0128 Masters School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1400
Metro North Railroad
The Arts The Hudson River Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .963-4550 Irvington Town Hall Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .591-6602 Newington Cropsey Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-7990 Rivertowns Art Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .476-2321
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
Post Offices Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ardsley-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
693-0476 591-7299 693-0451 478-4716 591-3786