Articles
Newsflashes
What you need to know about ticks!
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
With summer starting it is worth talking about ticks. Lyme disease can be misdiagnosed, so if you have any of the symptoms (even if you don’t see a tick or bite), talk to your doctor. Be sure to read the PSP guide to what you need to know about ticks on the PSP website here.
How To Talk To Kids About Death: Overview
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Dealing with Death
This is an overview from the 2018 talk, "How To Talk with Kids About Death" Park Slope Parents and Green-wood Cemetery co-sponsored.
Presenters:
Amy Cunningham The Inspired Funeral
Liana Smith-Murphy, play, child and adolescent therapist at BrooklynPlayTherapy.com
Age appropriate honesty is important. Kids know more than we think they do. If you’re not honest kids can come up with fantasized explanations of death (“I made grandma get sick and die”). Using concrete things like “X has died. Their body is no longer working” (rather than “Nana is ‘sleeping’” which can freak young kids out and lead to, “when is she going to wake up?”). You can also talk about your beliefs: “Our family believes that after someone dies you go to heaven.”
Let kids ask questions. Many adults have issues about talking about death so kids can believe it’s not okay to talk about being sad or the death. Everyone experiences death differently.
Resources for Coping with Park Slope's Tragedy
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
For many, the crash at 9th Street and 5th Avenue on March 5th, 2018 was very emotional. For people on the scene it was even more traumatic. We're working with some trauma and grief therapists (thanks to them for reaching out) to put together sessions that may help folks deal with the emotional aftermath of today's scene. Here are those resources:
Whether you were a witness, heard about it and were impacted, or had another experience that was retriggered by last week’s neighborhood (local? 5th Avenue?) tragedy, your feelings around this matter.
Below is a list of therapists who have offered support or have been listed as specializing in trauma/grief. We appreciate their stepping forward to help. (As a reminder—this is not an endorsement of any one therapist or approach to therapy.)
It's important to be supportive of the people who were there; it can help with their recovery. We are going to gather a list of resources and post those as well.
Please share these resources with your nanny-- some were at the scene and others know someone who has been impacted.
Resources about coping with this traumatic event:
- Guide to Helping Children Cope
- Coping after Traumatic EventsCoping after Traumatic Events
- Resources for Parents and Caregivers
- Seasame Street has great resources to help you help small children cope.
The Doughnut Fix Launch Party
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Events
Bring your child (8-years-old and up) to the Brooklyn Public Library to celebrate the publication of The Doughnut Fix, the first book in a fun new series by New York author Jessie Janowitz.
Meet the author and hear her read an excerpt from the book!
Enjoy hands-on activities!
There will be a book sale and signing!
Doughnuts will be served!
What: The Doughnut Fix Launch Party
When: Saturday, April 21st
Time: 1:00pm
Where: Brooklyn Public Library, Dweck Center
More Info HERE
This event is recommended for ages 8 and up.
Top Twenty Baby on the Beach Tips
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Traveling With Baby
Basics:
Swimsuit – depending on the age, either a float suit with adjustable buoyancy or “puddle-jumper” floaties
Rashguard – longer-sleeved suits that protect best from sun
Sun Hat – with tie and long back
Beach Towels (2/child) – reserve one for an end-of-the-beach-day-scrub
Sunscreen (check the use-by date and get a baby-friendly one)**
Swim diapers (even if kids don’t go in the water these are good)
Wipes
Water bottle/cup – Yeti or Thinkbaby make good ones
Washable Beach Bag with wet bags or large Ziplocs
Bucket – good for transporting items (including drinks and ice) to the beach and then for beach play
Stroller March Sunday!
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, News
Stroller March June 24th, 2018
NOTE DATE AND TIME CHANGE! Now Sunday @ 5pm!
TOP 25 TODDLER TOYS & ACTIVITIES
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
Looking for ideas for Toddler Toys and Activities? Here ya go (Courtesy of great discussions on some of our PSP Toddler Groups). Not a member and are a parent living in Brooklyn? Join PSP here!
ACTIVITIES
Use an old wallet stuffed with expired credit cards take out and put back in, repeat indefinitely!
Put some old toys out of sight - they'll usually show interest again after they’ve been on vacation for a week or two!
A small wooden kitchen with doors – used or new, this is evergreen
A hand broom, Swiffer sheet, and a cordless vacuum cleaner
Any and all Read-Aloud Board Books.
A small Jar with a Treat Inside.
A Baby Piano/Xylophone
Any Activity Table or Box that comes apart and has lots of “things” on it to move and make noise with!
Put Duplo Pieces (or anything that will fit!) into an Empty Tea Tin and take them out again!
A small Tea Set.
Make your own Toddler Busy Board - here are some great ideas.
SPECIFIC TOYS
Pockets of Learning Quiet Book – Indestructible books great for toddlers
Soft foam magnetic letters for the fridge
Skip, Hop & Explore Animal Car – Any “pull back” toy
Oball Rattle & Roll – or any Oball toy
Read Aloud Songs – listen to the song and follow along in the book
Magic Music Cubes
Peek-a-Boo Tunnels
Pop Toobs! – continue to be fun for years to come
Funky Moon Light with remote control!
Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Piggy Bank
Melissa & Doug gets lots of shout outs!
Play Cleaning Supplies
Door Puzzle with magnets
Shape Sorters
Unlimited Vacation Time Pros and Cons
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Working Parents
Motherless Mother Resources
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Dealing with Death
Motherless Mother Resources
Park Slope Parents has a Motherless Mothers group:
If you are not yet a PSP memer join us here
If you're already a member and would like to be added email
Website Resources
Theimaginarylibrary on Instagram is a 100 day project on grief and loss created by a woman who recently lost her mother.
Modern Loss is new website offering candid content, resources and community on loss and grief.
Articles Shared by PSP members
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/
http://therumpus.net/2011/03/dear-sugar-the-rumpus-advice-column-67-the-black-arc-of-it/
https://alovelywoman.wordpress.com/2017/05/05/12-ideas-for-motherless-daughters-on-mothers-day/
https://mobile.nytimes.com/2016/10/23/opinion/sunday/children-dont-always-live.html
Why Grief Is A Series of Contractions and Expansions
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/art/read-youre-grieving/
http://www.ahaparenting.com/blog/letter-from-your-mother-mothers-day
http://www.scarymommy.com/overcoming-waves-grief-when-youre-motherless-mother/?utm_source=FB
http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/surviving-the-grief-of-mothering_b_9757374.html
Heat Wave in the City! Cheap (or free!) Activities To Do With Kids of All Ages in NYC during the summer
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
In this article:
Useful Resources:
From NYC.gov: Beat the Heat
Outdoor Activities:
Parks & Playgrounds
One parent says, "go to a Splash Pad or Playground with water features (the LeFrak Center in Prospect Park, Harmony Playground, Imagination Playground, Brooklyn Bridge Park)."
Other parks and playground suggestions:
Botanical Gardens - "is free on Tuesday and before noon on Saturday!"
Prospect Park - "Pretend to be explorers in Prospect Park! As one parent shares: “One of my favorite free places to take my boys (2.5 and 4.5) is the woods in prospect park. the whole east side of the park has random trails that are fun to get lost on. I usually just let them lead the way and I follow. Yes, sometimes we walk in circles but that's actually really fun when they realize that we've just come back to where we were.”
Pier 6 - “Pier 6 is awesome. Has super huge sand park, water area and climbing gyms.”
Battery Park City - "I really like Battery Park City in the summer. There is so much there you can spend a whole day...the slides, the mini golf, the older playground with trapeze nets and interesting pedal horse toy, the poetry library, a cool Irish monument/installation, tribeca playground is well shaded and has water play and whole foods is a great place to eat. I always have a good time. Plus you are right on the water and can just feel the breeze."
Hudson south of 14th Street - “If in Manhattan, playground on Hudson just south of 14th street is small but has nice playground, water, and sand combination (and free star gazing--saw Hugh Jackson there)
Coney Island - HERE is an article from a local mom shared about her trip to Coney Island.
Ferries, Transport & Islands
Staten Island Ferry - "The Staten Island ferry is free and, while not indoors, cool and comfortable, with great views. There's also the ferry to Ikea from lower Manhattan, or the bus to Ikea (Ikea has very cheap kids' meals)."
Governors Island - "The ferry leaves from pier 6 in Brooklyn."
Roosevelt Island - one parents recently took the tramway to Roosevelt Island and reported: “My daughter loved it.” This parent also shares that “no food is allowed at new FDR memorial.”
The Subway - "Also want to mention that for us, just riding the subways is a great way to stay cool and have fun. My young son is completely entranced by the train and actually cries when we leave the subway platform."
Public Pools
Go HERE for read more tips PSP about local pools and Brooklyn and be sure to check the NYC Parks website HERE for opening and closing times (often city pools close for an hour in the afternoon for cleaning).
Beaches
Jacob Riis - "There's a whole food court complete with hammocks, tables with shade and bands/djs. A fun scene. Info here."
Brighton Beach - "I love Brighton Beach- easy drive, I always find parking, and have been taking my girl (now 8) almost since she was born"
Robert Moses Beach - "Robert Moses Beach is an hour away on Long Island but gorgeous and worth it. It had parking, showers, rentals for chairs and umbrellas and a concession stand. I just went Monday for the day. Sometimes a little traffic heading back of you leave between 5 and 6 but again worth it.
Rockaways (pictured) - "Easy access by the A train."
Zoos & Acquariums
Wildlife Conservation Society - "My best recommendation for your kid's ages is to get a membership from WCS - a membership to them gets you free admission to all the zoos in NYC and the aquarium. The Aquarium has parking and it is on the coney island walkway so you have beach (not the nicest beach in the world but suitable for a little running around and splashing) and an amusement park, plus the baseball field all nearby. The aquariums and the zoos all have indoor and outdoor spaces so you can get out of the heat. You can even take the kids to a 3D movie at the zoos. We are also members of the Natural History Museum - rain or heat - its a great place to skip the lines, let the kids wander, and learn a thing or two - from dinosaurs to space this is the best kids museum in the city. Most the big museums in NY are priced for SUGGESTED DONATION so feel free to pay what you can afford not what they ask. But the reason you get a membership is to skip the lines - and its worth every penny."
Indoor Activities
Museums & Libraries
Brooklyn Museum - Check out the free first Saturday events. One parent also suggestion the "Egyptian Collection at The Brooklyn Museum."
New York Transit Museum
Natural History Museum - “Go up to the Ross Terrace, where there are dancing fountains kids can play in.”
The Children's Museum of the Arts - "I am also a big fan of Childrens Museum of the Arts in Soho. It is not an affiliate of the above museums, so you pay per visit or can become a member. They have a very hands on art program. They also have free hands-on classes on Governor's Island (the calendar for governor's island - you get the ferry for free at the playground at the pier where Atlantic avenue ends)."
Brooklyn Children's Museum - "Get a membership to the Childrens Museums - now there are two Childrens museums in NYC - one is the Childrens Museum of Manhattan and one is the Brooklyn Childrens Museum - they are both members of the same museum society so you should be able to buy one membership and go to Both BUT THAT IS NOT HOW IT WORKS - they have created a special exception so you cant use your card at both places BUT you can become a member of an affiliated museum - Like Port Discovery in Baltimore and then you get free admission to both NYC museums. You do not however get to skip the lines like members of the NYC museum can, and you dont get discounts on classes etc. But, it saves you money and gives you options. If you already had a membership in your old location, it may be valid here - I know we have used ours in Atlanta, Houston and CA."
Museum of Mathematics - 6th St btwn 5th/Madison - "Yes, many of the concepts would be lost on a toddler but it's an amazing place and there were so many fun things for my 18mo to do. A plus is that Madison Square Park is just around the corner and on Tues/Thurs mornings (10:30AM) they host free kid concerts, art and more until Aug 8th. We saw Recess Monkey last week and they were awesome! There's also a nice playground (w/overhead sprinkler!) in the park."
The Brooklyn Public Library - view what PSP members say about BPL here for the central branch, the Park Slope branch, and the Brooklyn Public Library Cafe!
More on PSP: Kid Approved Art, Museum & Music Events
Local & Private Businesses
Ikea - “Sounds odd, but if you can get there, there's a lot of good playing to be had in the kids' room vignettes and toy department, and the food is super cheap.” and another parent also suggests it for being "Cheap! Ferry! Kids' meals in the restaurant are seriously cheap (and even free on Tuesdays)." And as another parent says, "there is plenty of space to play (and there is a child play area) in the IKEA in Red Hook, and its lovely to have lunch at the Fairway in Red Hook and then walk along the water to one of the near by Parks."
Toys-R-Us - "Toys R Us Times Square (has an indoor Ferris wheel and life-sized T-Rex dinosaur, in addition to a train table and gigantic Barbie dollhouse)."
Barnes & Noble - "has story times during the week."
Scholastic Store
World Financial Center - One parents describes how it "has lots of great restaurants and stores. Plus, they offer free arts programming."
AMC Theaters - Go see a movie! "AMC Theaters offer half-price movies before noon, every day. There are none in our neighborhood, but some in Manhattan are easily reachable."
Coffee shops and restaurants - see PSP reviews HERE for local restaurants and cafes.
Further Reading:
Click HERE to read more reviews and recommendations on PSP about Play Spaces in Brooklyn
Got a Teenager and looking for things to do? Get some ideas HERE.
Photo credits: Staten Island photo via here: https://flic.kr/p/RJstjd, Rockaway photo via here: https://flic.kr/p/cgb9to, Natural History Museum via here: https://flic.kr/p/SaMwQp, all other photos via Pixabay
In this article:
Useful Resources:
From NYC.gov: Beat the Heat
One parent says, "go to a Splash Pad or Playground with water features (the LeFrak Center in Prospect Park, Harmony Playground, Imagination Playground, Brooklyn Bridge Park)."
Other parks and playground suggestions:
Botanical Gardens - "is free on Tuesday and before noon on Saturday!"
Prospect Park - "Pretend to be explorers in Prospect Park! As one parent shares: “One of my favorite free places to take my boys (2.5 and 4.5) is the woods in prospect park. the whole east side of the park has random trails that are fun to get lost on. I usually just let them lead the way and I follow. Yes, sometimes we walk in circles but that's actually really fun when they realize that we've just come back to where we were.”
Pier 6 - “Pier 6 is awesome. Has super huge sand park, water area and climbing gyms.”
Battery Park City - "I really like Battery Park City in the summer. There is so much there you can spend a whole day...the slides, the mini golf, the older playground with trapeze nets and interesting pedal horse toy, the poetry library, a cool Irish monument/installation, tribeca playground is well shaded and has water play and whole foods is a great place to eat. I always have a good time. Plus you are right on the water and can just feel the breeze."
Hudson south of 14th Street - “If in Manhattan, playground on Hudson just south of 14th street is small but has nice playground, water, and sand combination (and free star gazing--saw Hugh Jackson there)
Coney Island - HERE is an article from a local mom shared about her trip to Coney Island.
Staten Island Ferry - "The Staten Island ferry is free and, while not indoors, cool and comfortable, with great views. There's also the ferry to Ikea from lower Manhattan, or the bus to Ikea (Ikea has very cheap kids' meals)."
Governors Island - "The ferry leaves from pier 6 in Brooklyn."
Roosevelt Island - one parents recently took the tramway to Roosevelt Island and reported: “My daughter loved it.” This parent also shares that “no food is allowed at new FDR memorial.”
The Subway - "Also want to mention that for us, just riding the subways is a great way to stay cool and have fun. My young son is completely entranced by the train and actually cries when we leave the subway platform."
Go HERE for read more tips PSP about local pools and Brooklyn and be sure to check the NYC Parks website HERE for opening and closing times (often city pools close for an hour in the afternoon for cleaning).
Jacob Riis - "There's a whole food court complete with hammocks, tables with shade and bands/djs. A fun scene. Info here."
Brighton Beach - "I love Brighton Beach- easy drive, I always find parking, and have been taking my girl (now 8) almost since she was born"
Robert Moses Beach - "Robert Moses Beach is an hour away on Long Island but gorgeous and worth it. It had parking, showers, rentals for chairs and umbrellas and a concession stand. I just went Monday for the day. Sometimes a little traffic heading back of you leave between 5 and 6 but again worth it.
Rockaways (pictured) - "Easy access by the A train."
Wildlife Conservation Society - "My best recommendation for your kid's ages is to get a membership from WCS - a membership to them gets you free admission to all the zoos in NYC and the aquarium. The Aquarium has parking and it is on the coney island walkway so you have beach (not the nicest beach in the world but suitable for a little running around and splashing) and an amusement park, plus the baseball field all nearby. The aquariums and the zoos all have indoor and outdoor spaces so you can get out of the heat. You can even take the kids to a 3D movie at the zoos. We are also members of the Natural History Museum - rain or heat - its a great place to skip the lines, let the kids wander, and learn a thing or two - from dinosaurs to space this is the best kids museum in the city. Most the big museums in NY are priced for SUGGESTED DONATION so feel free to pay what you can afford not what they ask. But the reason you get a membership is to skip the lines - and its worth every penny."
Brooklyn Museum - Check out the free first Saturday events. One parent also suggestion the "Egyptian Collection at The Brooklyn Museum."
New York Transit Museum
Natural History Museum - “Go up to the Ross Terrace, where there are dancing fountains kids can play in.”
The Children's Museum of the Arts - "I am also a big fan of Childrens Museum of the Arts in Soho. It is not an affiliate of the above museums, so you pay per visit or can become a member. They have a very hands on art program. They also have free hands-on classes on Governor's Island (the calendar for governor's island - you get the ferry for free at the playground at the pier where Atlantic avenue ends)."
Brooklyn Children's Museum - "Get a membership to the Childrens Museums - now there are two Childrens museums in NYC - one is the Childrens Museum of Manhattan and one is the Brooklyn Childrens Museum - they are both members of the same museum society so you should be able to buy one membership and go to Both BUT THAT IS NOT HOW IT WORKS - they have created a special exception so you cant use your card at both places BUT you can become a member of an affiliated museum - Like Port Discovery in Baltimore and then you get free admission to both NYC museums. You do not however get to skip the lines like members of the NYC museum can, and you dont get discounts on classes etc. But, it saves you money and gives you options. If you already had a membership in your old location, it may be valid here - I know we have used ours in Atlanta, Houston and CA."
Museum of Mathematics - 6th St btwn 5th/Madison - "Yes, many of the concepts would be lost on a toddler but it's an amazing place and there were so many fun things for my 18mo to do. A plus is that Madison Square Park is just around the corner and on Tues/Thurs mornings (10:30AM) they host free kid concerts, art and more until Aug 8th. We saw Recess Monkey last week and they were awesome! There's also a nice playground (w/overhead sprinkler!) in the park."
The Brooklyn Public Library - view what PSP members say about BPL here for the central branch, the Park Slope branch, and the Brooklyn Public Library Cafe!
More on PSP: Kid Approved Art, Museum & Music Events
Ikea - “Sounds odd, but if you can get there, there's a lot of good playing to be had in the kids' room vignettes and toy department, and the food is super cheap.” and another parent also suggests it for being "Cheap! Ferry! Kids' meals in the restaurant are seriously cheap (and even free on Tuesdays)." And as another parent says, "there is plenty of space to play (and there is a child play area) in the IKEA in Red Hook, and its lovely to have lunch at the Fairway in Red Hook and then walk along the water to one of the near by Parks."
Toys-R-Us - "Toys R Us Times Square (has an indoor Ferris wheel and life-sized T-Rex dinosaur, in addition to a train table and gigantic Barbie dollhouse)."
Barnes & Noble - "has story times during the week."
Scholastic Store
World Financial Center - One parents describes how it "has lots of great restaurants and stores. Plus, they offer free arts programming."
AMC Theaters - Go see a movie! "AMC Theaters offer half-price movies before noon, every day. There are none in our neighborhood, but some in Manhattan are easily reachable."
Coffee shops and restaurants - see PSP reviews HERE for local restaurants and cafes.
Further Reading:
Click HERE to read more reviews and recommendations on PSP about Play Spaces in Brooklyn
Got a Teenager and looking for things to do? Get some ideas HERE.
Photo credits: Staten Island photo via here: https://flic.kr/p/RJstjd, Rockaway photo via here: https://flic.kr/p/cgb9to, Natural History Museum via here: https://flic.kr/p/SaMwQp, all other photos via Pixabay
How to End the Summer with a Splash
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
We’ve got a few more weeks of summer; let’s make it the best of it! Here are some ideas to make it great.
Things to do in and around NYC
- Walk around the Lullwater at Prospect Park
- Get water squirters and have a water fight
- Visit a playground with a water feature (Imagination Playground, 3rd Street or Harmony Playground)
- Look for bats at dusk by the Prospect Park baseball fields
- Head to one of the Farmer’s Markets around the hood and make dinner
- Watch the sunset together as a family (Red Hook, Bear Mountain and Coney Island all have great views)
- Swim at one of the local pools or take a trip to Bear Mountain pool
Things to do anywhere
- Blow bubbles or make giant bubbles (find the recipe for giant bubbles below)
- Get the kids out of bed early in the morning and go to the beach to watch the sunrise (Coney Island works!).
- Go through your photos. Print out great ones to put up on the walls. Create an online album and print one out for each of your kids so they all have their own copy.
- Have an End of Summer Celebration and come up with some lifelong traditions (using some of the ideas above).
- Start a gratitude routine. Go around the room (dining table, campfire, etc.) and say what you are thankful for. You can start with “I’m grateful,” “I’m thankful” or “I appreciate” and choose anything about your life, family, friends, or summer highlights. Put these in a jar and read them at the end of the year.
- Have an "I’m excited for" routine where you can express what things you are looking forward to in the future.
OH! And square up with Summer Camp Counselors if you want to thank them for their hard work!
With school on the horizon
Talk about the upcoming school year to make the transition easier. Discuss with your kids how they'll make new friends, go to fun playdates, and have a great school year. If you have a PreK or Kindergartener there are dedicated groups on PSP with meetups by school. See our Tips for the First Day of School (including preparations!)
*Giant Bubble Recipe
1 cup Simply Dawn (not concentrated- very important!). some of the bodegas have this as does Home Depot (a big one cheap!)
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp powered J Lube (maybe something you have on hand will work?) You can order this on Amazon (I don’t know of a local resource)
Giant Bubble Wand
Wooden dowels (our local hardware stores have these but so do Lowe’s and Home Depot)
String- baker’s twine works, but cotton clothe’s line works really well if you take out the center.
Rubber bands to attach string to the end of the dowels.
There are 3 basic types of wands on THIS page.
HAPPY END OF SUMMER!
Top 10 Questions to Ask on Your Preschool Tour
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
Top 10 Questions to Ask on Your Preschool Tour
- What is the school’s educational philosophy? Preschools have many different educational philosophies and approaches. That’s why it’s vitally important for you to understand the philosophy and approach of each preschool you are considering and how that aligns with the personality of your child and family.
- How long has this school been in existence? How long has the director been here? Get a sense of the school’s history and how long they’ve been operating. A director with a long tenure may indicate a more stable educational environment and this is good information to have when comparing schools.
- How experienced are the teachers? Preschool teachers’ training requirements vary by state, but it’s important to know some details. Did the teachers study early childhood development? Do they have a college degree? How long have they been working with children? Not all staff need to have formal credentials, but the head teacher should be certified in early childhood education and hold a B.A. or M.A.
- How much play time do the children have? Depending on the preschool’s educational philosophy, your child could have abundant or limited play time. Decide what’s best for your child’s personality, growth, and development. Make sure you tour the entire facility including the play areas. Well-maintained classroom and play spaces show a commitment to the children’s entire experience.
- How much parental involvement do you expect or want? Parental fundraising and volunteering is often expected. Find out exactly what is required regarding parental support. If you want to get really involved, cooperative preschools require parents to volunteer in the classroom. If it’s not a co-op, ask if the school has an open-door policy so you can visit whenever you’d like.
- What is the school’s separation policy? Preschool might be the first time your child will experience an extended separation from you or a caregiver. Depending on the child, being dropped off for school in the morning can be overwhelming. Find out what the separation policy is so you know how involved you’ll need to be at the start and to determine what will work best for your child. You could be required to stick around for the first few days, or the school may take a more cold-turkey approach.
- What is the school’s approach to discipline? It’s important that the school’s disciplinary style works with your beliefs, and that you have an understanding of when and why you may be called in. At many preschools, learning how to play with others is core to the curriculum. Social emotional development is the backbone of any good preschool's work, so getting a full understanding of how the school provides this is key.
- What does a typical day look like? What in the world will your child be doing all day? This is an important question to ask and the answer will inspire additional questions you may have regarding the daily school experience like: How much time will your child spend outside? Will they be fed lunch/snacks or do you need to pack these? Will the children be leaving the school building often? What does rest/quiet-time look like?
- Will my child be safe here? This may be the most important question. What is the school’s protocol in case of accidents and emergencies? Where are the first aid kits and emergency defibrillators (or lack thereof)? Are the teachers certified in CPR and pediatric first aid? What is the policy regarding drop-off/pick-up and ensuring that the school knows exactly where your child is at all times? If your child has any allergies, now’s the time to ask about allergy protocol and experience.
- Does the school meet my family’s basic needs? Every family is different. You may look at a highly regarded school and decide that it is the wrong fit for your family. Can you afford it? Is the location convenient? Do the hours work with your schedule? Are you comfortable with the nutritional approach? What’s your gut feeling right after the tour? Picking a school is a deeply personal family decision–don’t base it on popularity or what your friends are doing.
Thanks to our article sponsor, The Early Childhood Center at Congregation Beth Elohim; a preschool that fosters growth, curiosity, and self-esteem.
Fall and Halloween Events -- 2018 Edition
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash
Here's a sampling of the local events happening around Brownstone Brooklyn. (Are we missing something? Email us at .)
Want to go apple or pumpkin picking? Check out PSP-member recommended destinations here
Looking for apple & pumpkin picking destinations that are public transportation friendly? Check out these PSP-member tips here
78th Precinct’s Halloween Haunted House
When: Thursday, October 26-Monday, October 30, 4pm to 9pm
Where: 65 6th Avenue, Park Slope/Prospect Heights
How Much: Free
What: The 78th Police Precinct’s chilling, third annual Halloween Haunted House here. This is a scary, things jump out at you kind of experience, not for the faint of heart or young of spirit (or me!).
Saturday October 27th, 2018
Where: Brooklyn Botanical Garden (has three entrances: 150 Eastern Parkway, 455 Flatbush Avenue, 990 Washington Avenue)
When: Saturday, October 27, 2018 12 –5:30 p.m.
How much: members and kids under 12 free, tickets $10-15
What: Enjoy spectacular shows and weird workshops, meet local authors and illustrators at the book barn, and join in on the day’s grand finale: Brooklyn’s wackiest costume parade, featuring colossal puppets, giant drums, and stilt dancers.
Halloween Haunted Walk & Fair @ Prospect Park --- CANCELLED
Brooklyn BOO! Prospect Park After Party at City Point.
Where: Citypoint, 445 Albee Square West, Downtown Brooklyn
When: Saturday, October 27,2018 2 – 5 pm
How much: free but registration is recommended
What: Costume contest, photo booth, pumpkin patch, Nail Art, Face painting and more!
Spooktacular
When: Sat Oct 27th, 11am - 2pm
Where: Audubon Center, Carousel, Lefferts Historic House, NethermeadPs 282, 180 6th Ave
Get your costumes on and join us at PS 282 for an afternoon of Halloween fun! A sizzling BBQ by one of our fabulous chef dads will entice visitors young and old with burgers, hotdogs and corn, a variety of spooky treats will be available at the cake stall and all children will love the carnival Halloween themed games in the gym, getting their faces painted and rocking out in our costume parade and dance party!
For older children looking for a fright, we are unveiling a frightening spooky room and for the little makers we have a place to chill-out and craft.
Great way to escape the cold, have fun for the whole family and get in the mood for Halloween while supporting our lovely school, can’t wait to see you there!
Beyond x Industry City: Kids' Halloween Parade
When: Saturday, October 27, 10am to 4pm
Where: Industry City, The Frying Pan Wheelhouse, Courtyard 5-6
How Much: Free
What: Beyond and Industry City's second annual Kids' Halloween Parade...
Kids’ Halloween Parade & Trick-or-Treat
When: Saturday, October 27, 11:30 am to 3pm
Where: Industry City
What: Not one but two parades at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm. Playhouse, arts and crafts, face painting and trick or treat at the food mall.
Sunday October 28th, 2018
18th Annual Fort Greene Park Halloween Festival
When: Saturday, October 27, 11:30 am to 3pm
Where: Fort Greene Park, Fort Greene (Central Lawn)
How much: Suggested $5 donation per day of event entrant.
What: The 17th Annual Fort Greene Park Halloween Festival. Rides, games, prizes, face-painting, crafts, live music, and more!
Pumpkins, Pirates, Pizza and Parades! The PSP Halloween Costume Contest and more!
Where: The Old Stone House & Washington Park
When: Sunday, October 28, 2018 12:00 p.m.–3:30:00 p.m.
How much: free to enter the halloween contest, pumpkins and pizza pay as you go.
What: Wear your Halloween costume, with prizes for best in show! Plus, paint pumpkins and make pizza in the Old Stone House outdoor oven. The day will end with a mini-parade around the park with band Paprika; great for little ones who can’t make the larger parade on the 31st whch starts at 6:30!
Sean Casey Animal Rescue's Howl-o-ween Block Party
When: Sunday, October 28th, 12pm-5pm
Where: 153 East 3rd Street, between Caton Ave & Ft Hamilton Pkwy, Windsor Terrace (the entire block!)
How Much: Free
The animal rescue's 11th Annual Howl-o-ween Bark Block Party presents games, crafts, DJ, live entertainment, raffles, animal welfare information booths and pet adoptions. Costume contest and howling contests for kids and dogs. Sign up begins at noon for contests.
Pierrepont Playground Halloween Parade
When: Sunday, October 28, 10am
Where: Pierrepont Playground, Pierrepont Place, Brooklyn Heights
What: An annual Halloween parade followed by a bake sale, crafts, and playground fun!
The 20th Annual Great PUPkin 2018
When: Sunday, October 28, 11:30am to 1pm
How Much: $10 registration fee per dogWhere: Fort Greene Park (at Washington Park), Fort Greene
What: Fort Greene Pups' 19th annual Great PUPkin—”Brooklyn’s largest and most outrageous dog costume contest." Watch cutie pattutie dogs compete for one of ten Great PUPkin rosettes with prizes donated by local businesses.
Park Slope Civic Council's Annual Children's Halloween Parade
When: October 31, 2018 at 6:30
Where: Parade Start 14th Street and 7th Avenue, ending at the Old Stone House at Washington Park on 5th Avenue between 3rd and 4th Streets.
How Much: Free
What: Children of all ages, including the young-at-heart, are welcome to join in the largest children's Halloween parade in the United States. Please let the paraders pass and join at the back!
BAMBoo!
When: October 31, 2018 4pm - 7pm
Where: 30 Lafayette Ave between Ashland Pl and St. Felix St
How Much: Free
What: This is a Ft. Greene based Halloween block party. Family-friendly music and mischief kicks off at 4pm!
Rocky Horror Picture Show Live Karaoke Revue and Halloween Extravaganza presented by The Occasionalists
Where: The Bell House
When: Weneday, October 31, 2018 Doors at 7pm, Show at 8:00
How much: $12/$15 day of show - VIP tickets available.
What: A 21 and over benefit for The Center for Anti-Violence Education. Every year, on Halloween, The Occasionalists do a special Rocky Horror Picture Show live karaoke night in which they play two complete live karaoke sets of the movie soundtrack with singers from the audience doing all the lead vocals. In between the two sets, they have a costume contest with some great prizes and there is also a raffle in which one can win, among other things, two round-trip airfares. To make the show even more fun, we have NYC RHPS who are the longest running group of Rocky Horror shadow casters (the people who act out the movie in front of the movie) who perform with the clips. Last but not least, the show is a benefit show for The Center for Anti-Violence Education, a Park Slope-based organization that "develops and implements comprehensive violence prevention programs for underserved individuals and organizations. https://caeny.org. The band proudly donates all proceeds to CAE.VIP package includes open bar (beer, wine and well cocktails) from 7 -9pm and a gift bag.
The Intellectual Vitamin for Kids: Dual Language Preschool
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Being a Parent
Sponsored by
Dual language learning in preschool helps builds executive function, empathy, cognitive flexibility, cultural connections, and fluency.
Executive Function
Executive Function is often stronger in bilingual children. When kids are learning two languages, they really have to focus on which language to speak in the moment. Saying "Goodbye" to Mom and then "Boker Tov" (Hebrew for “good morning”) to your teacher demands close attention! This kind of fluid interaction improves their ability to switch from one task to another. “Task-switching” is a core building block for developing strong executive functioning skills like paying attention, organizing and planning, focus, and self-monitoring.
Empathy
Young dual language learners have to follow social cues to figure out which language to use and in what setting. This helps build empathy and social engagement skills. In basic social-emotional skills testing, bilingual children as young as three often score higher than their monolingual peers.
Cognitive Flexibility
Children’s brains are like sponges! They are constantly creating connections among different symbols, words, and concepts. Because we know that learning and speaking more than one language makes the brain more flexible, dual language classrooms help to further expand children's mental skills. Specifically in areas like visual problem-solving, pattern recognition, abstract thinking, and logic.
Cultural Connections
Through dual language learning, preschoolers effortlessly develop an understanding of–and deep familiarity with–two cultures. This helps to strengthen their own identities, creates a sense of belonging, and inspires cultural curiosity.
Improved Fluency
Studies have shown that after the age of seven, children start to lose the natural ability to reproduce new sounds. This makes second language acquisition slower and more difficult. The ideal way for a child to learn additional languages is continuous, regular exposure, but this isn’t always possible. For this reason, introducing languages in the early childhood years of education is the best way to make the most of this innate ability.
Thanks to our article sponsor, The Early Childhood Center at Congregation Beth Elohim; a preschool that fosters growth, curiosity, and self-esteem.
Holiday Happenings 2018
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special Events
Here are all the great Holiday Happenings in Brooklyn and Beyond this season. Also check out our article about Where to See Christmas Lights (including Dyker Heights):.Have another holiday event to add? Email for review. Scroll to the bottom for Photos with Santa!
Merry Christmas Everyone!
All Saints Church Christmas Pageant
Sunday, December 16th
10am
All Saints Church 7th Ave & Street
Santa at Greenwood Park
Saturday, December 15th
Greenwood Park, 555 7th Avenue
Free
1 – 5 pm
Brower Park Annual Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 16th
Brower Park (Prospect Place & Kingston Avenue
Free
4 - 7 pm
Help decorate Shirley Chisholm Circle with Friends of Brower Park. Music, refreshments, 77th Precinct Choir
Children's Christmas Pageant
Sunday, December 16
11am
The Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6 Avenue & 8th St
The Children's Christmas Pageant an imaginative interpretation of the story of the birth of Jesus, as part of our worship service.
Free Community Skate with Santa
Tuesday, December 18, 3-6 pm
LeFrak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park, 171 East Drive, Brooklyn, New York 11225 More Info + RSVP: www.prospectpark.org/nypskate
Skate for free with Santa + the first 100 attendees can pick up a voucher for a free hot chocolate! Skate admission is waived (skate rentals are $7 per person.) Hot chocolate vouchers are available for the first 100 attendees at the NewYork-Presbyterian table located on site. Parking available in the LeFrak parking lot
Santa at Greenwood Park
Saturday, December 22nd
Greenwood Park, 555 7th Avenue
Free
1 – 5:00pm
KWT Neighborhood Singalong
Friday, December 21st
5:30 - 6:30, with socializing til 7pm
Beverly Road @ Churc Avenue
A singalong honoring the WInter Solstice at Kensington Plaza
Caroling with All Saints Church Park Slope
Saturday, Decmber 22nd
4:30 - 5pm practice and snack
5pm leave to carol up 7th Street to 8th Ave, along 8th Ave to 8th St, down 8th St back to the church around 5:45 - 6pm to warm up with some hot chocolate. Please RSVP to Andrea at
so they can get enough songbooks and hot chocolate ready!
A Visit with Santa! Hosted by Suzi Shelton
Sunday, December 23rd
12 - 2pm
Jalopy Theatre, 315 Columbia Street, BK
Suggested donation is $5 per family and all the proceeds with go tot he Uncle Shlomo's Brooklyn Kids Scholarship Fund.
All Saints Church Christmas Eve Services
Monday, December 24th
4pm Christmas Eve Family Eucharist
9pm Holiday Concert featuring Arturo O'Farrill and the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra
10pm Christmas Eve Festival Eucharist
All Saints Church 7th Ave btw 7th and 8th Streets
Park Slope United Methodist Church Christmas Eve Family Service
Monday, December 24 at 4pm
The Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6 Avenue & 8th St
Christmas Eve Family Service, simplified and suitable for young children, from birth to 94, followed by a Christmas carol sing-a-long at the piano.
Park Slope United Methodist Church Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Monday, December 24 at 4pm
8pm
The Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6 Avenue & 8th St
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, with music and carols.
St. Savior Church Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Monday, December 24 at 4pm: Monday, December 24
8pm
The Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6 Avenue & 8th St
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, with music and carols.
Old First Reformed Church
December 24th
7 pm
Christmas Eve Service
Park Slope United Methodist Church
December 24th
Family Service: 4 p.m.
Candlelight Service: 10 p.m.
St. John-St. Matthew-Emanuel Lutheran Church
December 24th
7pm and 11 pm
Candlelight Service
Grace United Methodist Church
December 24th
7 pm
Mass
Saint Francis Xavier Church
December 24th
Family Mass: 5 pm
Christmas Carols and anthems: 11:15 pm
Midnight Mass
Saint Francis Xavier Church
Christmas Day
9:30 a.m
12:15 pm
Mass
Ring in the New Year in Prospect Park! Join Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams and Prospect Park Alliance to start off 2019 with a spectacular firework display and live music.
Photos with Santa
Photos with Santa at Items of Interest in Park Slope
Thursdays – Sundays November 29th – December 23rd
Macy’s Santaland at Herald Square
November 23 – December 24th
Reservations only now, and you get there and still wait, but the Santaland keeps folks occupied. It's still a great tradition.:
Santa Photos at Kings Plaza
Daily from November 8th – December 24th
Reserve your spot online:
Older Events:
Winterfest 2018
Saturday, December 1st
11am - 4pm
Brooklyn Friends School, 375 Pearl Street
Crafts and workshops suitable for all ages
Holiday Market at P.S. 118
Saturday, December 1st
11am - 5pm
Inside P.S. 118 at 211 8th St. and 4th Ave.
Kids’ crafts and activities, delectable treats, and unique holiday gifts from 50+ vendors. Family fun that supports local artists, businesses, and students!
SinterKlass- St. Nicolas Day
Saturday, December 1st
1 – 4pm
Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum (5816 Clarendon Road)
Santa Claus will ride in on horseback at 2:30pm and photos with Santa (for a fee)
Meet Santa on Flatbush Avenue (Ditmas Park)
Saturday, December 1st
11 – 2 PM
815 Flatbush Ave
Santa, Caribbean holiday music, goodie bags for kids (while supplies last), fresh cookies provided by McDonald's at 943 Flatbush, and fun! Hosted by Church Avenue Business Improvement District and Flatbush Avenue BID (SHOP LOCAL!)
Santa on 5th Ave in Park Slope
Saturday, December 1st
3 – 4:30pm
Prospect Bar & Grill
Santa will be visiting with a Christmas tree, reindeer, Mrs. Claus and Elf! Carolers along 5th and Dean from 3pm – 5pm as well.
Jingle Fest! Holiday Concert & Cookie Swap
Saturday, December 1, 3-5pm
3pm Concert, 4pm Cookie Swap
All Saints' Episcopal Church (286-88 7th Ave at 7th Street, Park Slope)
$15 ticket includes refreshments and Santa photo op! | Kids 2 & Under Free | Bring a batch of cookies to exchange and get one free ticket!
Tickets here: https://bkcm.org/events/holiday-concert-cookie-swap/
Kane Street Synagogue Chanukah Party
Sunday, December 2nd
10:30 am – 12 pm
236 Kane Street
$20/family (All are welcome!)
Featuring crafts, cookie decorating, games, and a live musical performance by Shira and Friends! Ages 1-5.
BIG BKLYN Hanukkah Fest
Sunday, December 2nd
2 -5pm
City Point
Celebrate the first night with City Point + The Forward. Dreidel making, puppets, dancing, music, photos with a mensch on a bench and, of course, and LATKES!
FREE and everyone is welcome!
PSJC Hanukkah Party
Sunday, December 2nd
3:00PM - 5:00PM
1320 8th Avenue (at 14th Street)
Fun for children of all ages!
Suggested donation $5/person or $20/family. Visit our website (https://www.psjc.org/event/hanukkah_party) to let us know you are coming or for more information on other upcoming programs!
Light up your Hanukkah at PSJC! Join us for crafts, donut decorating, latkes pajama contest, professional face painting, and more! Plus a donut eating contest, sing-a-long, and candle lighting for the first night.
Brooklyn Artic Adventure (and Virtual Santa)
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays November 24th through December 24th
12 – 9pm
CityPoint |
Virtual Reality Experience. Ages 6 and up.
First Night: Menorah Lighting in DUMBO
Monday, December 3rd
5 - 6pm (lighting at 5:15)
Pearl Street Triangle
Free treats, dreidels, and menorash for all.
Light Up the Holidays at MetroTech
Monday, December 4th
5pm
MetroTech Commons in Downtown Brooklyn.
Celebrate with Santa, live reindeer, and performances by Brooklyn Ballet + Brooklyn Music School.
DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 6th
4 – 7pm (tree lighting at 6pm)
Pearl Street Triangle
https://dumbo.is/hosting/2018-dumbo-holiday-tree-lighting
CAMBA Holiday Tree Lighting and Sing Along
Thursday, December 6th
6- 8pm
This is a fun local event put together by the folks who oversee the women's shelter at the Armory. Hot chocolate, cookies, performances and more!
1402 8th Ave, Park Slope Armory, 8th Ave between 14th and 15th Streets
Thomas Greene Park Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 7th
4 – 6pm
Santa Clause and a big tree! What more could you want!
Gowanus at 3rd Avenue and Douglass Street.
Carroll Park Holiday Tree Lighting
December 7th, 2018
6 – 7pm
Friends of Carroll Park will sing songs and light the Christmas trees.
Louis Valentino, Jr. Ballfield
Photos with Santa Clause at the Old Stone House
Saturday, December 8th
10am – 12pm
The Old Stone House, 5th Ave between 3rd and 4th Streets
Join Park Slope Parents, the Old Stone House and the Park Slope 5th Avenue BID for our 4th annual photo session with Santa, in partnership with Park Slope Parents and the Park Slope Fifth Avenue BID. Photographer Marc Goldberg will make his professional photos available on his website for purchase, and you’re welcome to snap your own photo as well.
Klezmer Hanukkah Party
Saturday, December 8
3:30-5:30pm
BKCM Concert Hall (58 7th Ave at Lincoln Pl.)
Co-hosted by Brooklyn Conservatory of Music and Congregation Beth Elohim. Get into the Hanukkah spirit with our Community Klezmer Band featuring renowned Klezmer artists, as well as Klezmer song and dance leaders. Warm up with latkes, Hanukkah crafts, and more!
Tickets here: https://bkcm.org/events/klezmer-hanukkah-party-2/
5th Annual Fort Greene Park Holiday Tree Lighting (Changed from 12/2)
Sunday, December 9nd
4 - 5:30pm
NEW LOCATION! The lighting this year will take place at the northwest corner of Fort Greene Park, near the Myrtle Ave & St Edwards St entrance.
Free hot cocoa and cookies, live music meet Santa and MORE!
http://myrtleavenue.org/event/5th-annual-fort-greene-holiday-tree-lighting/
Chanukah Village in Park Slope
Sunday, December 9
3 PM – 4:30 PM
For one day only, 5th Avenue in Park Slope will be transformed into a magical Chanukah Village! Free but please RSVP here.
Borough Hall Christmas Tree Lighting
Wednesday, December 12th
5:30 – 6pm
In front of Borough Hall in the Plaza
Holiday refreshments and musical entertainment at the annual tree lighting at Borough Hall Plaza on Wednesday, December 12 from 5.30 to 6 PM.
http://www.brooklyn-usa.org/event/christmas-tree-lighting-2/
Santa on 5th Ave in Park Slope
Saturday, December 15th
Du Jour Bakery
Free
3 – 4:00pm
Santa will be visiting with a Christmas tree, reindeer, Mrs. Claus and Elf! Carolers along 5th and Dean from 3pm – 5pm as well.
Santa on 5th Ave in Park Slope
Saturday, December 15th
4:30 – 5:30pm
Pure Bistro
Free
Santa will be visiting with a Christmas tree, reindeer, Mrs. Claus and Elf! Carolers along 5th and Dean from 3pm – 5pm as well.
Christmas Caroling around Park Slope!
Saturday, December 15th
4:30 – 6:30pm
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!Meet and practice (and have a snack!) from 4:30-5 at All Saints Church undercroft (on 7th Ave near 7th St, at the sign for “Park Slope Center for Successful Aging.”) We’ll leave at 5 to carol up 7th St to 8th Ave, along 8th Ave to 8th St, down 8th St, and then back to the church around 5:45-6 to warm up with some hot chocolate.Please let us know if you plan to attend by RSVPing to Andrea Robinson at .">
. Hope to see you there!
St. Saviour Catholic Church on 8th Ave and 6th St has a family mass at 6 pm on Christmas Eve.
2018 Holiday Tips Survey: The Results are IN!
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- Parent Category: Newsflashes
- Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special Events, Gifts and Tipping, Christmas
Here are the key findings from the 2018, 7th annual Park Slope Parents Holiday Tips Survey in which Brooklyn residents report their upcoming end of year gifts to service providers, nannies, and teachers.
PSP Announcements
