Newsflash

What you need to know about ticks!

Details: 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.

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How To Talk To Kids About Death: Overview

Details: 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

GW-kids-event

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

Details: 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

Details: 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

Donut Fix

This event is recommended for ages 8 and up.

Top Twenty Baby on the Beach Tips

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Traveling With Baby

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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!

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, News

Stroller March June 24th, 2018

NOTE DATE AND TIME CHANGE! Now Sunday @ 5pm!

RSVP HERE

Unlimited Vacation Time Pros and Cons

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Working Parents

Unlimited Vacation Time Pros and Cons Compilation 2018

I was wondering if anyone actually has experience with "unlimited vacation". When I first heard of it on this list, I thought it was too good to be true, and I was right, at least according to this article I read:

https://medium.com/@wwalser/unlimited-vacation-is-a-dark-perk-and-you-should-use-that-to-your-advantage-f30495f0df23>

I am wondering on average how many vacations people actually end up taking. Anyone dared to take more than 4 weeks (real ones, not work-vacations) and not fear retributions.

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I worked in multiple companies that has such policy. The actual vacation length and frequecy culture varied from company to company and was just not clearly stated, one had to kind ask around to see what's appropriate. It varied from 2 weeks in a row being a very long vacation to 3 weeks + 2 weeks later in the year of being totally fine + some single days here and there.

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Our company went from unlimited vacation to 20 days annually, partially because there was the perception that the policy was being violated, or at the very least being taken advantage of disproportionately. We're a relatively small team so it felt like fairness was paramount to avoiding intra-office mutiny :)

I think the size of the team matters a lot, as well as cultural expectations (of course). We're part of an international company so in a sense it felt fair to mimic the parent company's vacation policy, but that doesn't really work in practice.

I much prefer mandatory office closures for certain periods. My last employer had an office closure the week between Christmas and New Year's, and the thing I liked most about it is that people tended to actually travel during that time, and it felt very much like school when they returned because everyone would share stories from their time off.

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Thanks, everyone, for your thoughts. What I am still unclear about is how this unlimited vacation policy is beneficial to the employee? It is sold as something cool but so far I haven't heard that it adds value compared to the traditional way of stating plain and simple what the vacation days are. So when I am considering joining a company, I have not seen reasons to believe that as a selling point, but rather, just yet another thing to have to deal with within a company culture I don't know yet.

I must be missing something here

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I like set vacation policies better, in theory . Devil is in the details. I just switched firms and my former firm cut me a check for the two weeks I hadn’t used. That meant I didn’t have a pay gap for the time I took between jobs. Very generous of them and since i’m a lawyer in a firm it wasn’t necessary since I wasn’t working at full capacity so I felt strange taking the accrued time (but didn’t complain). I’m in an area that gives 4 weeks of vacation and assumes we are working hard when not away. If I only got a week or two then I might prefer a more “honor” system type of vacation policy. And I wouldn’t abuse it. I don’t take 4 weeks off. I take about 2

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I'm currently interviewing and a few places mentioned their unlimited policy as a selling point. I would prefer a specific amount of days as well because you can get paid out when you leave.

I generally take at least 4 weeks throughout the year because that's what I've had so far at all my jobs and most of that is to visit family overseas.

If we got to the offer stage do you think this is something to bring up to let them know ahead of time? Since I won't know the culture and I don't want them to think I'm taking advantage once I accept.

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My experience with unlimited vacation is:

1. I am on the work-life team of our organization. Research shows that overall people do not take advantage of the policy and in fact overall people take LESS time then if there was a set policy. People NEED vacation to recharge and be productive but there is anxiety around what is the right amount of vacation to take? Most people err on the side of caution and take less in order to fit in with the culture.

2. My husband's company had unlimited vacation. Most people were taking 2 weeks or none. Some of the high powered workahaulics in the org of course are in senior management and they were not taking vacation. Employees took their cue from them and were not utilizing vacation. Now they have 4 weeks PTO and everyone uses it.

And just an FYI, many orgs KNOW that people will not use unlimited vacation but that it sounds great on paper to millennials for recruitment.

I have 4 weeks paid and 1 week personal and the week off between Christmas and New Year's and I use every minute of my vacation and am a really productive employee

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I’ve read analysis that agrees with the feedback above. Typically flexible vacation policies look good on paper but are less favorable for employees and save the employer money.

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We went from a policy of x number of days per year to unlimited. From a corporate perspective it was good because holding millions of dollars in cash is difficult. From an individual perspective (I looked at my days off) and I'm just at 4 weeks from before and after. I also happen to have taken two paternal leave, which for me was 8 weeks each. I had less time off before the policy, for reference.

It comes to how you manage the unlimited policy. I work for StreetEasy, part of Zillow Group, and I encourage people to take time off. Am appropriate work-life balance is encouraged.

I can't say that I've observed much of a difference, though I've seen that some are able to take 5 weeks now without much issue.

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I think it depends on the culture of the organization - at my company, people do indeed take 4 weeks or more of vacation. On top of the actual days off, this policy has affected the culture in that people feel comfortable working from home a lot. Now, when I consider other opportunities, if they offer 3 weeks of vacation, I feel very restricted.

As for how an employer benefits, they do not have to pay for any days not taken and given that empirically, people do not take a ton of time off, that means they're saving money.

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I second these comments (although I worked at the same company as her!). When I started there, I thought the unlimited PTO policy must be too good to be true, but in reality it turned out to be everything I would have hoped. It definitely varied by team but I'd say I took over 4 weeks every year, and one year was 6 weeks. They had a caveat that anything over 30 days in a calendar year was supposed to be approved by your manager's manager.

I'm sure it varied by team, but with a supportive and flexible manager (and after proving your value and working hard!) it was taken seriously and I never sensed any judgment. For a while I wouldn't even consider interviewing anywhere else that didn't have the same policy. At my new job, I have 3 weeks a year and the only way that works for me is with a very flexible culture around working remotely.

I hope to see more companies move in this direction!

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Motherless Mother Resources

Details: 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/2018/08/21/style/how-to-overcome-grief.html

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.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/mar/03/we-dont-lose-our-mothers-reality-more-violent-that-that

http://www.scarymommy.com/overcoming-waves-grief-when-youre-motherless-mother/?utm_source=FB

Heat Wave in the City! Cheap (or free!) Activities To Do With Kids of All Ages in NYC during the summer

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash

In this article:

Outdoors:

Parks & Playgrounds

Ferries, Transport & Islands

Useful Resources:

From NYC.gov: Beat the Heat

Outdoor Activities:

manhattan-1674404 640

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 14^th 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.

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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."

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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).

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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."

discus-fish-1943755 640

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

natural-history-museum

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

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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:

Outdoors:

Parks & Playgrounds

Ferries, Transport & Islands

Useful Resources:

From NYC.gov: Beat the Heat

Outdoor Activities:

manhattan-1674404 640

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!"

Pier 6 - “Pier 6 is awesome. Has super huge sand park, water area and climbing gyms.”

Coney Island - HERE is an article from a local mom shared about her trip to Coney Island.

32641939260 72b1ed23f2 z

Ferries, Transport & Islands

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.”

young-swimmer-2494904 640

Public Pools

7391651508 543f7c3e19 z

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"

Rockaways (pictured) - "Easy access by the A train."

discus-fish-1943755 640

Zoos & Acquariums

Indoor Activities

natural-history-museum

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 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

popcorn-1433327 640

Local & Private Businesses

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.

How to End the Summer with a Splash

Details: 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.

1.websitepage.2.splash

Fall and Halloween Events -- 2018 Edition

Details: 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

2018 Holiday Tips Survey: The Results are IN!

Details: 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.

The Park Slope Parents Gratitude Jar

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash

The Park Slope Parents' Gratitude Jar overflowed in 2018!

We wanted to take a minute to thank the community and some of our great members individually for a FABULOUS 2018. We've got another year of spirit and fun in store for our community in 2019!

JOIN US! If you're not a member yet, let this gratitude list help you decide if you want to be part of our vibrant community!

What are we grateful for?

PSP Members!

gratitude2

2019 Martin Luther King Day of Service Events

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Events

MLK Day

Events, education, movies and playlists related to Martin Luther King's Birthday, January 21st, 2019.

Events

MLK Day By The Park Event
Monday, January 21st
11:00am - 2:00pm
Polo Cafe, 883 8th Avenue
The program is free and open to the public with an emphasis on children. We are looking to highlight the human struggle and equality of ALL people as Dr. King spoke about. Guest speakers, books, and participants will create a big mural.

MLK Day at BCM - I Have a Dream Celebration
Monday, January 21st
10:00am - 5:00pm
Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave (At St Marks Avenue), Brooklyn, NY
A celebration of the life and legacy of civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A full schedule of activities will soon be released on the Facebook event page.

Repair the World - Family Meal Packaging for Brooklyn Community
Monday, January 21st
10:00am - 11:30am
Repair the World NYC, 808 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Kids and parents from all over New York will come together to prepare and package about 3,750 meals per shift to be delivered throughout the Brooklyn community. See website for other MLK volunteer opportunities.

MLK Day of Service at Park Slope Jewish Center
Sunday, January 20th
10:30am - 2:00pm
Park Slope Jewish Center, 1320 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY (corner 14th St.)
Projects and activities for ALL ages: cooking, soup-kit and PB&J assembly lines, book drive, clothing drive, advocacy, arts/crafts, knitting, etc., to benefit Brooklyn Legal Aid, the Brooklyn Family Justice Center, CHIPS, God's Love We Deliver, HIAS, and more. Stories and songs for preschoolers starting 10:30am.

BAM 33rd Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Monday, January 21st
10:30am - 1:30 pm
Artists, activists, civic leaders, and community members come together in the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House to honor the legacy and share the dream of Dr. King. This event is free and sign-language-interpreted.
Peter Jay Sharp Building, 30 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, NY

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Storytelling and Music Event
Mon Jan 21, 2019
11:00am to 3:00pm
Grace Reformed Church, 1800 Bedford Avenue (corner of Bedford and Lincoln Rd.)
Free
This volunteer-run event includes a reading of Show Way by award-winning Brooklyn author Jacqueline Woodson about Underground Railroad, as well as music performances, and activities and crafts for children, and a complimentary lunch at noon. Greenlight Bookstore is a partner on this event.

Little Essentials MLK Family Volunteering Day
Monday, January 21st
10:00am - 12:00pm or 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Basement of Tribeca Pediatrics, 15 Warren St, New York, NY
Parents can volunteer at the Tribeca warehouse with their children (over 10 years old) or help sort and organize donations to go to needy families.
Due to limited space, 2 time slots are offered and each accommodates 10 people total.
Please use the link to fill out the volunteer form and your participation will be confirmed via email.
For questions, email Zakiyyah at or call 646-850-3611.

Freedom Songs & Stories
Monday, January 21st
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park, 101 East Dr, Brooklyn, NY
Masterful storyteller, Tammy Hall, will be telling diverse tales from around the world creating a rich, Martin Luther King Jr. Day experience for all.
(Free, but space is limited. The link to register can be found on the website)

Kid friendly movies:

Our Friend, Martin (can be found on youtube)
Ruby Bridges
The Watsons go to Birmingham
The Color of Friendship
And the Children Shall Lead (Ages 9+)
Hidden Figures (Ages 10+)
Remember the Titans
Selma
Hairspray
42 (Biopic about Jackie Robinson)

Educational Videos on YouTube:

The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - MLK Day! (Animated)
History of the Civil Rights Movement
The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. by Kid President
Civil Rights and the 1950s: Crash Course US History #39

As our own Nancy McDermott says in her PSP blog post The Arch of the Moral Universe: MLK Day:

Let us remember and believe that "The arch of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward Justice". . Let us remind ourselves and tell our children how much has changed --still changing since the days when Martin Luther King's speeches sent chills down the spine of a nation. Most of all, let us take heart in the fact that great and just ideas endure in history and that we can make them a reality. Martin Luther King understood this better than anyone.

Resources for Cancer Warriors

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Health & Illness Support

From support groups, organizations, and websites dedicated to coping with cancer, here are resources to be a warrior!

NOTE: We also have a Cancer Goddesses group on Park Slope Parents. If you're not a member yet, JOIN HERE. If you are already a member, send us an email at .

YouGotThis2

Image courtesy of Sydney Rae via Unsplash

Mentoring Resources

1. Imerman Angels. “Having a mentor from Imerman Angels was so helpful - I met someone who was a survivor of the same kind of cancer that I have and she ended up becoming a very close friend. She also encouraged me to communicate my needs to my family and friends because otherwise they often would not intuit them - she was quite right.”

Support Resources

1. Stupid Cancer. “Stupid Cancer is a cancer support group for young adults - nationwide with a lot of tools and events.”

2. Cancer101. “Check out Cancer101. It was created to help the newly diagnosed manage the impact of the disease and help them navigate through the questions that they have and the resources available.”

3. Facebook. “Facebook is a good start. There are FB online communities that support patients suffering from just about everything. Throughout that community you can ask and find local in-person groups and other resources. NYS has organizations like Parent to Parent that are amazing resources for families. NJ should have non-profit organizations that will help with mental health, peer support, transportation and many other services.”

4. Gilda's Club. “Gilda’s Club is an incredible resource offering free support for cancer patients and their families. All the branches throughout the US operate independently you will have to find one close to you. The NYC branch is very active.”

5.Summer Hope Foundation. “Summer hope does "hope baskets" that are personalized baskets intended to bring joy to people with cancer. They are free and really, really nice.”

6. Friend’s Health Connection. “A non-profit called Friend’s Health Connection is based in NJ and the idea is to connect sick patients with fellow patients who are similar age, ailment, gender etc. who they can relate to since they are both sharing similar experiences.”

7. Unconditional Healing. Unconditional healing is essentially about finding sanity, compassion, and connection during adversity. The tendency during health crises is to isolate and to live in your head, always problem-solving and Catastrophizing. This is the website to the group.

8. Stages of the Cancer Journey: A great overview of the different stages of feelings, family communication and outcomes of the cancer process.

9. Mary’s Place By the Sea It’s a fabulous organization that generously welcomes women with any form of cancer to their gorgeous house in Ocean Grove, NJ (one block from the beach). You can go for a day or up to 2 nights, fed delicious vegan meals, and partake in their many services (massage, reiki, nutritional counseling, meditation, yoga, etc)...all for FREE! Highly recommend to any woman newly diagnosed, currently in treatment, or up to 1 year post treatment as that is their guideline. Special place to spend time to heal: mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Other Resources on Park Slope Parents

1. Resources to talk to a child or teen about cancer

2. Support Groups for Coping with Cancer

3. How a child's class can help a student sick with cancer

Diet Resources/Advice

1. Supplements. “I would not recommend any supplements while under treatment unless cleared by your doctors. Find someone who’s an expert at side effects from chemo and radiation. For supplemental support you might try finding a naturopath doctor who specializes in cancer treatment. They would work with your doctors (if the oncology doctors are willing) to support with nutrition, herbs etc. In my experience it is out of pocket but perhaps they could work out a payment plan (or you could gift a couple of sessions?) There are a lot of foods patients can’t tolerate while undergoing chemo so be patient but persistent. This is where an expert comes in because they know what to try and what will not interfere with medication.”

“Decreased appetite is a hallmark of chemotherapy as is weight loss. I recommend voicing concerns about it to the nurses at the infusion center, they should have a dietician on staff that would be able to help and/or be able to help themselves. That being said, protein supplements are wonderful, simple extremely nutritious foods, easy to chew and not overly fragrant are helpful. Ensure is frequently given in the hospital. If decreased appetite continues to be an issue look into/ask your provider about Miranol, it is an appetite stimulant frequently prescribed to Oncology pts. Beef liver pills are amazing as well, they aren’t given in the hospital but can help with anemia.”

“Medical marijuana is supposed to be the most effective treatment for appetite in cancer patients and I believe there are other potential benefits that are probably worth researching. However, I know marijuana is approved as a treatment for leukemia in the state of New Jersey and shouldn't be discounted.”

2. Herbs. “If you want to go in the herbal direction, there is a class of plants called "nourishing" (nettles and red clover are two great ones). They are full of protein and easy on the system. You can make a medicinal strength tea that steeps overnight and you sip them all day instead of water. Here's a link to instructions from a very well-respected herbalist”

3. Nutrition Drinks+. “I'd say yes, anything to get calories. My son lost so much weight early on that the hospital started giving him nutritional drinks until he couldn't stomach them anymore. Think high fat, high nutrient foods like avocados, rice pudding, ice cream, milk shakes, nuts and nut butters, adding butter and cream to foods.”

“I saw a nutritionist for weight gain and was told that the Boost Plus has the highest calories and was told that these are the easier/most painless nutritional drinks to drink because they are not too filling.”

4. Corrine Furnari. “If you can afford to visit Corrine Furnari in the city, I highly recommend her for nutritional information. She will also tell you it's important to supplement with organic milk whey (Warrior Whey) because it helps to keep mass on while also fighting cancer.”

5. Milk. “We learned that milk and lactose-based food can be very bad as milk makes mouth sores that some people get from chemo much worse.”

Miscellaneous Advice and Resources

1.Nancy Keene. “Nancy Keene is an excellent resource for leukemia information, and her book 'Childhood Leukemia: A Guide for Families, Friends, and Caregivers' is particularly helpful in covering pretty much any aspect of the illness and treatment.”

2. American Cancer Society. “There are some interesting resources on the American Cancer Society website.”

3. The Truth About Cancer. “Watch The Truth About Cancer. It's incredibly informative, and chock full of information, and a must watch for anyone thinking about cancer.”

4. Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “I've watched the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society really grow so I'd start with them. They seem to have a support line too. There is so much that is out of your control as a cancer patient and it’s really hard on young adults who are trying to find their own identity, etc.”

5. Advice. “1. Stay away from the internet. The worst thing my I did was to look there. Now is not the time to look there, there will be time to look and research web but not now! 2. Let someone close deal with the doctor appointments. You need time to digest your diagnosis you don't want to be stressed about the appointments. 3. Let other people in your family help, let them cook and let them clean, they need it and you need it. 4. If you have children let other people help you with them. 5. Talk to someone who went through it to help navigate your feelings and fears. 6. Ask for help 7. Sleep and, if you need to, take pills to help you with your anxiety 8. It is rough...it is rough on everybody in your family. Take a deep breath and then another one and then another one...one at the time."

6. Jeannine Walston. "An interesting article on the stages of cancer. I thought the information surrounding the diagnosis was particularly helpful. I know some of these things rang true for me."

Strengthening Relationships

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special Events, General Parenting Advice

Parenting puts a lot of pressure on a relationship, even a good one. With this in mind, here’s a short list of things to do to strengthen relationships. Make these things priorities starting this Valentine's Day (if you haven't already)!

Conversational Hearts Best Version2 2

Date Night: If you can swing it, get out alone with your partner. There are good reviews of Date Night Restaurants on the Park Slope Parents website.

Recharge: Send your partner out to get recharged, or recharge yourself. The Pampered Parent recommendations page has massage therapists and other services to help. These folks give PSP discounts on pampered parent services. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. For dads, getting out and playing poker, going to Dad 411, or meeting up with other dads in your monthly or seasonal group are great ways to recharge. We also have an article on avoiding Parental Burnout .

Consider Therapy. This can be hard when you have limited time and young kids, but it can save a marriage. We have this list of Couple’s Therapists and Counseling. If you’ve got issues that start with you, or if your partner doesn’t want to attend, consider going to individual therapy.

Read books about Relationship Resilience and do workbooks together. Parenting can stress relationships. The big names in couple’s therapy right now are John Gottman (The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work) and Sue Johnson (Hold Me Tight and Emotionally Focused Therapy) but don’t discount oldies but goodies like Harvell Hendrix (Getting the Love You Want, Imago Therapy) and simplified but useful constructs like Gary Chapman (The 5 Languages of Love are: words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, physical touch; quiz here.)

Cuddle without expectation of sex. Be explicit that you just want to cuddle (and mean it).

Have sex. Schedule it if you need to. I’ve talked to many moms who feel like sex was a hassle, but they were always glad they did it afterward. If you’re co-sleeping, try a new place like a shower with the lights off. (We started a Sex after Kids Survey years ago; a Babeland/Park Slope Parents initiative that we never followed through with—maybe we need to dust that off!)

Practice Gratitude, especially with your partner. Have a Gratitude Jar (or text each other 3 things each day). Write 3 things that you are grateful for each day and re-visit them regularly. Especially tell each other what you appreciate about them.

Take charge when your partner needs a break. One friend said that the best thing her husband did was to put a beer in her coat pocket and tell her to go take a walk in the park when she was totally overwhelmed.

Do more little things. Texts for no reason, flowers just because, notes on the bathroom mirror, phone calls. Little things can do a lot to help a relationship. Put the dishes away, fold the laundry, offer to make dinner… do things that aren’t typically “your” tasks.

Laugh more. Surround yourself with more comedy and less tragedy (including your steaming binges). Share funny jokes and cartoons and reflect on funny times together.

Practice Active Listening. Remember, it’s NOT about the nail. This takes energy and time.

Watch things together. Co-viewing creates a shared history that helps couple's bond.

This is a snapshot of some of the things that I discuss in my NYU Interpersonal Communication graduate class.

So that’s some relationship help for ya. We also have this article: Wisdom/support for serious marital rough patch

Dr. Susan Fox

Ph. D. 1994, UCSB, currently NYU Adjunct

Founder, Park Slope Parents

Time and Sanity Saving Tips for Parents

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Working Parents, Working Parents

TimeandSanity

Do you ever feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day? Trying to balance cooking, cleaning, and parenting in general is not an easy task. The good news is that you are not alone! The Park Slope Parents Working Moms group had a discussion of how to make life less hectic that they have found to help stave off the insanity. We have compiled the helpful tips and advice on how to balance it all while still finding time for yourself.

2019 SIPPY TIPS FROM THE PSP HIVE

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash

SIP SIP HOORAY! Someone asked fellow members for recommendations of the best sippy cup. Here are the top winners!

sippycupmunchkin2

Munchkin Click Lock Weighted Straw Cup – Recommended by the parent of an 8-month-old who is holding and drinking from it by themselves. This cup is described as leak-proof and the weighted straw allows for tipping while drinking.
Think Baby Thinkster Straw Bottle – Another favorite brand with a spill-proof straw that doesn’t leak in bags. They will also donate 10% of the profit to a foundation of your choosing.
Pura Kika Straw Bottle – A plastic-free bottle that grows with your kid. This bottle was recommended by a parent who has had the same bottle for 3 years!
OXO Tot Transitions Straw Cup with Removable Handles – Spill-proof and leak-proof for easy drinking.
Philips Avent My Bendy Straw Cup – A short straw bottle that promotes natural swallowing.
The First Years Take & Toss Spill-Proof Straw Cups – A pretty indestructible, easy to clean cup that a 3-year-old can’t even get the lid off of. However, these cups were not made for transportation as they will leak around the straw when thrown in a bag.
Munchkin Sippy and Straw Lids for Miracle 360 Cups & Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup – This combination also came recommended and helps with the transition to straw and open cups.

This Saturday-- The Park Slope Parents Members Only Kids Clothing, Gear, and Maternity Swap

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash, Events

boys-and-girls-summer-clothes

When: Saturday, March 2nd, 2019
Time: 10:00AM - 12:30PM
Where: All Saints Church 463A 7th Street, entrance on 7th Street (the Park Slope Senior Center)

How much and details:

$5.00/member - only payable at the door
You must be a PSP member (we will be checking at the door). Not a PSP member?
- Join
- Renew

Park Slope Parents Weekly Roundup!

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash

PSP Events for this week: Highlights from March 11th-16th!

captain-marvel-poster

See our FULL CALENDER

PSP Tabletop Game NightPSP Tabletop Game Night

Tuesday, March 12th

Time: 7:00pm - 11:00pm

Where: The Douglass, 149 4th Avenue

Wills & Estate Planning Workshop

Wednesday, March 13th

Bill Cahill calms your nerves and tells you how to begin!

Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm, 336 3rd Street

Cost: $20.00, no refunds

The Proud Tree - Giving with Boundaries

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash

There is a debate about the story "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein. Should people be self-less and give and give or have boundaries? Katie Deutsch has written this response to Shel's book from the perspective that perhaps it's okay to set boundaries and not give until you have nothing left.

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The Proud Tree - Giving with Boundaries

Written by Katie Deutsch, A response to Shel Silverstein

The Proud Tree KDeutsch.Title

There once was a Tree and she loved a Boy.
The Boy gathered her leaves, made crowns to wear, and play king of the forest.
He climbed her branches, ate her apples, and the Tree was happy.

But the Boy grew older and visited less often.
One day the Boy came back and the Tree said, ‘Come boy, climb up my branches.’
The Boy wasn't having it, ‘I don’t want to climb your branches, I need money, I want to sell your apples at the market.’
The Tree thought about this for a moment. “Boy, I love to make you happy, and my apples are delicious. Take this harvest and in the spring I’ll grow more."
The Boy gathered all the apples from the Tree, and made a pretty penny at the market.

Years passed, and the Boy came back to the Tree, and the Tree was happy to see her friend. “Boy, come taste my delicious apples!”
But the Boy was somber, “I don’t want your apples, I need a house for a family.”
“I don’t have anything to help with that,” sighed the tree.
The Boy blinked a few times and gulped. “You could give me your branches, that way I could build a house.”
The Tree was shocked. These branches grew her delicious apples, were the home of countless birds and squirrels. Strong and plentiful for all children to climb.
“No. You are being selfish, and I don’t like the assumption that you own my branches to do whatever you wish.”
The Boy shrugged and walked away sheepishly.

Many years later, the Boy came back.
“What is wrong Boy, you look so sad! Come sit and talk to me, share your problems.”
The Boy started to cry, “I am so sick of the world. It is so hard and it always challenges me. I wish I had a boat, so I could sail away and find peace. Give me your trunk so I can find an escape.”
Once again, the Tree was surprised and sharply spoke to the Boy, “The world will always challenge you, it doesn’t stop. And running away won’t solve your problems, only create new ones. And besides, your family needs your love and support.”
The Boy grew angry, threw up his hands, stomped away from the tree and disappeared.

More years passed, and the Boy came to visit once more, but this time he was an old man. The Tree welcomed him with open branches, calling out, “Hello old friend, it has been a long time.”
The Boy looked up at the beautiful apples, the majesty of her branches, marveled at her strong trunk and weeped, “Thank you for your strength, and thank you for your wisdom. I wanted everyone to bend to my will, but life doesn’t work that way.”
The Tree beamed with gratitude, “Yes, Boy, true friendship and love are built on boundaries. I’m glad you found peace. Come, sit down and rest."

ProudTree.ss

Posted with permission by Katie Deutsch

Spring is Here! Find Bunny and Earth Events

Details: Parent Category: Newsflashes; Category: Newsflash

GREAT events coming up for bunny-ears-friendly Easter, Passover, and Springtime events.

easter

Sunday, April 14th, 2019

Green Meadows Farm Brooklyn Easter Egg Hunt
Aviator Sports and Events Center, 3159 Flatbush Avenue
10:00am - 4:00pm (Saturday too!)
This eggs-cellent event will include an egg hunt, photos with Whiskers the Easter Bunny, new tractors to sit on, a hayride, bunny barn, corn box, an playgrounds! Tickets are $9.00 and can be purchased online. Be sure to bring your Easter basket and your bunny smiles! Easter baskets, pony rides, and animal feed will all be available for an extra fee. 
 
Brooklyn Bark: Portrait with the Bunny & Sidewalk Carnival
Sean Casey Animal Shelter, 153 East 3rd Street (Windsor Terrace)
11:00am - 4:00pm 
An afternoon of family fun for kids AND pups. There will be games, crafts, face painting, refreshments, a prize wheel, dog treats and cotton candy. You can also have your kid or canine photographed with the Easter Bunny. The event is free and Bunny photos are by donation or you can purchase a timed photo ticket online. All proceeds go to Sean Casey Animal Rescue.
 
 


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Second Chance Toys 

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, DonationsEarth Day is April 22nd and we have a way to SAVE THE PLANET ONE TOY AT A TIME!  Second Chance Toys rescues gently used toys for children in need.
 
Kidville Park Slope
808 Union Street, Brooklyn
April 15th – 20th, 2019
Monday- Friday, 9am – 6pm
Saturday 9:15am – 3:30pm
 
Over the past 15 years Park Slope Parents has supported drives for Toys for Tots , Hurricane Sandy Relief, LGBTQ teens in crisis, CHiPS food drives, Little Essentials baby/toddler clothing/gear drive and much more. 
 


Spring in the Slope: 2019 Edition

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashSpring has sprung in Brooklyn! 
Some of the prettiest trees are peppered through NYC, along with PSP favorites Green-wood Cemetery and Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
The PSP Gardening Group is meeting next Saturday, May 4th, for a Plant and Pot Swap. 
ENJOY!
Cherry Blossoms on 10th Street near 7th Avenue.
 
Tulips on 3rd Street near 7th Avenue. 
 
A newly planted Carroll Gardens window box.
 
 
 


Stoop Sales, Block Parties, & Bikes! The PSP Guide to Summer Fun

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash Summer is here and it's time for three of our favorite Brooklyn traditions: Stoop Sales, Block Parties, and Bike Rides.
Here is some great wisdom on all three of those perennial BK topics. Have fun! Sell some stuff! Boogie down your block! Enjoy the breeze on your back as you bike with your BFFs. 
STOOP SALE INFO: 
Check out these informative guides to making stoop sale exchanges GREAT:
- The PSP Guide to buying great stuff at Stoop Sales.
- The PSP Guide to hosting a Stoop Sale.
Email your Stoop Sale info to the
   on Thursday and we'll post it, and also pull together a summary to send out to folks - weather willing of course.
 
 
BLOCK PARTY INFO:
Check out different ways to make your BLOCK PARTY GREAT! This page also includes fun ideas for kids at block parties. If you give us a heads up, Park Slope Parents will try to stop by with some Giant Bubbles! Email
  . And check out our DIY Giant Bubbles recipe if you want to whip some up on your own!
 


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LGBTQ+ Family Friendly Events-- 2019 edition

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special EventsHere are our picks for Family Friendly PRIDE Events for June 2019
 
 
 
Kidding Around Family Pride Picnic
When: Saturday, June 29, 10am - 1pm
Where: On the High Line (16th Street to Gansevoort Street)
How Much: Free (Guests must register in advance here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kidding-around-family-pride-picnic-tickets-59243127790
What: A celebration of LGBTQ+ families and Pride through a summer festival with carnival-style games, face painting, a musical performance, and much more. 

Youth Pride
When: Saturday, June 29, 10am - 1pm
Where: Central Park’s SummerStage
How Much: Free for the public under 21. There is a $10 registration fee for individuals 21+ (Guests please register in advance here https://2019-worldpride-stonewall50.nycpride.org/events/youth-pride/ )
What: A chance for young people to celebrate NYC Pride with their friends. Interactive Experiences, games and performances from Ava Max, DJ Nhandi, Deetranda, and many more!
 
 
 


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Reducing Plastic in Our Lives! 

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
Here is some great advice for reducing plastic in our lives from PSP Members. Please feel free to email us with more ideas and we’ll add to this article!
Health/Lifestyle 
Switch from body/facial wash to bar soap.
Use bar conditioner on your hair - mine has never looked better. 
Use Tom’s bar soap for the kids.
Buy plastic/packaging-free soaps at Lush
We buy gallon bottles of California Baby hand soap and refill smaller bottles around the house.
Switch to toilet paper that’s rated A on the NRDC list. 
Find eco-friendly toilet paper and tissues: https://us.whogivesacrap.org
Use Bamboo Toothbrushes
For those who get their period, Thinx underwear are amazing.
Switch to cloth napkins.
 


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2019 It's Sooo Hot in the City! Cheap (or free!) Activities To Do With Kids of All Ages in NYC during the summer

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
In this article:
 
 
Outdoors:
Parks & Playgrounds
Ferries, Transport & Islands
Pools
Beaches
Zoos
Indoors:
Museums & Libraries
Local Businesses
Useful Resources:
From NYC.gov: Beat the Heat
 
DRINK YOUR WATER FOLKS!  WATER YOUR TREES TOO!
 


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The 2019 Nanny Survey Results are In!

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Nanny 101, Nanny Surveys, Hiring a NannyThe 2019 data is here! PSP conducted its 7th survey of employers who employ a nanny. These results are based on 870 parents from Brooklyn who employ live-out nannies who are not part of a nanny share.
 
IMPORTANT FINDINGS:
PAY**
$18.65 per hour for 1 child ($1.60 more than 2017)
$19.94 per hour for 2 children ($1.61 more than 2017)
 
Part-time nannies continue to make a higher hourly rate than a full-time nannies, paying a premium for fewer hours:
$19.78 per hour for 10-20 hours
$18.77 per hour for 40-50 hours
 
TIME OFF:
The average agreed upon days off is 13 days, while the reported days actually received is 21 days. (The vast majority of nannies are paid for all 21 days they receive off.)
Seven in ten (70%) let their nanny schedule time off at the nanny's discretion (something for which PSP advocates.)
RAISES & BONUSES:
The most common first year annual increase is $1 per hour.
Giving end of year bonuses continues to be standard, with 1 week's pay given the most common amount.
The average bump in pay when a second child arrives is $2 per hour. 
 
Data includes nannies paid on and off the books. 
Rates do NOT reflect Nanny Shares where a nanny takes care of kids from 2 families at the same time. 
 
NOT A MEMBER OF PARK SLOPE PARENTS? You're missing out!
If you're a parent in Brooklyn (almost half of all PSP members live outside Park Slope), Join Park Slope Parents today!
 
MORE: PSP RESOURCES TO HIRING A NANNY:
 


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2019 Rosh Hashanah & High Holiday Events

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Events, Holidays and Special Events, Misc Special Events Park Slope Jewish Center
PSJC welcomes you and your family to join us for our youth and family services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur! Our open tent (literally!) service are open to the community and welcome your entire family from toddlers to teens a place to celebrate with singing, stories, and the shofar.  For service descriptions and times for all of our options from toddlers to teens to family services, please visit the websites below. Services are all located at 1320 8th Avenue, at the corner of 8th Avenue and 14th Street in Park Slope.
Rosh Hashanah, September 30th & October 1st
https://www.psjc.org/event/rosh-hashanah-youth--family-services1.html
Yom Kippur, October 9th
https://www.psjc.org/event/yom-kippur-youth--family-services1.html
 Registration is not required, but is requested to help with planning, but even if you decide to join us on the morning of, you're always welcome. Please contact Aileen Heiman, Director of Youth Education and Family Programming, at 
  , with any questions about accessibility or other needs. Shana Tovah! 
 
Kolot Chayeinu/Voices of our Lives:
We are excited to offer a new Youth and Family Service running simultaneous with our main services. This musical, interactive High Holy Days service is geared towards school-age youth. We welcome all families with younger children, though children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by a responsible family member or adult. This will be a family-friendly space for all ages. 
Rosh HaShanah Youth and Family Service: 
Monday, Sep 30 11:00am-12:30pm
Yom Kippur Youth and Family Service: 
Wednesday, Oct 9 11:00am-12:30pm
Both services take place in the atrium of NAB Theater at City Tech - 285 Jay Street in Downtown Brooklyn
 
Brooklyn Heights Synagogue
 Community Family Services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
Led by Rabbi Molly Kane
FREE and open to all. No ticket required
Monday, September 30th | 2:00PM
Wednesday, October 9th | 2:00PM
Services are located at Plymouth Church, 57 Orange Street
 
Congregation Beth Elohim
High Holy Days at CBE is a special time to reflect, rejoice, and connect. For families with toddlers, our interactive services for tots ages 0-4 and their parents are the perfect opportunity to come together during this meaningful time. And for families with special needs, please join us for a needs appropriate, sensory friendly High Holy Day experience.
 All Tots Services and the Special Needs Service are free and open to the public! For more information and our full schedule, visit https://cbebk.org/hhds/familyservices/
Services are located CBE, 274 Garfield Place
Shanah Tovah!
 
Kane Street Synagogue
High Holidays family services for kids of all ages and their families. Open to the community! Childcare and family services are included in synagogue membership. We ask non-members to purchase tickets for their family if they plan to us for family services and/or utilize childcare during the High Holidays ($50 for services and $18 for childcare). You can register at https://kanestreet.shulcloud.com/form/high-holidays-tix.
 For more information on all of our holiday programming, visit https://kanestreet.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/2016_HI-HOLIDAY-FAMILY-SCHEDULE-1.pdf
 
Union Temple
The High Holy Days are almost here! Union Temple invites you and your family to begin a new year with the sweetness of community. Union Temple’s Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur family services feature kid- and family-centered prayer, song, storytelling and connection to the values of these powerful days. There is no charge and all are welcome to any and all of our services, adult and kid alike. Just let us know that you’re coming at HHD.Union-Temple.org. Your email confirmation is your ticket; present it when you enter. One ticket is good for all services. Childcare is also available during all adult services. Please visit HHD.Union-Temple.org for the full schedule of services and more information.
ROSH HASHANAH (Monday, September 30) | 9:00AM
Services for 5 and under: 4th Floor
Services for 5+ and older: 3rd Floor 
YOM KIPPUR (Wednesday, October 9) | 9:00AM
Services for 5 and under: 4th Floor
Services for 5+ and older: 3rd Floor
 
Join the B’SHERT family for High Holiday Services! You do not need tickets for our children’s services.
Rosh Hashanah, Monday, September 30th at 1:30PM
Yom Kippur, Wednesday, October 9th at 1:15PM
Beth Shalom v’Emeth Reform Temple
83 Marlborough Road, Brooklyn, NY 11218 (at Church Avenue)

  
  
Romemu Brooklyn
Berkeley Carroll School
Romemu Brooklyn is pleased to host our second season of High Holy Days for 5780/2019.
Babysitting and youth programs are included at no additional charge for all service times. For information and to register, visit: https://www.romemu.org/about/brooklyn/hhdbk/
 
Flatbush Jewish Center
 327 E. 5th Street in Kensington
 Welcome the new year with our Conservative egalitarian community. High Holiday tickets are included with FJC membership.
 For non-members, tickets are $220, or $110 for Coop Hebrew School parents who are not FJC members. 
Rosh Hashanah Children’s Program, Monday, September 30th at 10:00AM
Yom Kippur Children’s Program, Wednesday, October 9th at 10:00AM
 
Bayridge Jewish Center
Free and all are welcome
Rosh Hashanah Services
Monday, September 30th & Tuesday, October 1st
10:00AM (ages 0+ - 5yrs); 11:00AM (ages 6 – 11yrs) 
Yom Kippur Children’s Services
Wednesdays, October 9th
10:00AM (ages 0+ - 5yrs); 11:00AM (ages 6 – 11yrs)
 For information on our complete High Holiday schedule, visit http://brjc.org/wp-newsite/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/BRJCHIGHHOLIDAYSCHEDULE2019newimproved.doc2_.docxF_.docxF-1-1.pdf
 
 
Chabad of Windsor Terrace
1266 Prospect Avenue
Led by our experienced and energetic group leaders, we will provide fun and educational program for your children while you attend services. Children will enjoy age appropriate games, stories, discussions, prayers and songs. No membership needed. 
Rosh Hashanah Children's Program, Monday, September 30th and Tuesday, October 1st at 11:30AM
 


Doc Fox's Lessons for Better Communication

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Nanny Relationship AdviceSome of you might not know that Founder Susan Fox has her Ph. D. in Communication (from a gazillion years ago). She still teaches a graduate level Interpersonal Communication Course at NYU every so often and at the end of the semester I hand out a documnet called, "Doc Fox's Lessons for Better Communication."
When she mentions it to people they say they'd love to see it. So here it is; raw, un-prettied up, and for your knowledge. So come sit down and see what you might need from this and leave the rest. 
 
Favorite sayings:
"The only person who acts sensibly is my tailor. He takes my measure anew every time he sees me. Everyone else goes by their old measurements." George Bernard Shaw.
"You probably wouldn’t worry about what people think of you if you could know how seldom they do." Olin Miller
"Be Kind. You Never Know What Someone Is Going Through." Author Unknown
 
Doc Fox's Lessons for Better Communication
Perception, Emotions, and Listening 
Remember that meaning is in the person, not the words. How you think something should be interpreted and how it is interpreted are two different things.
People don't MAKE YOU feel anything. You are reacting to them, their words, and their behavior. Rather than "you make me feel X," use your "I" language and say, "I feel X when you…." Likewise, you don’t make other people feel anything. (Don’t mention this in the middle of a heated discussion.)
Give people the benefit of the doubt and realize that you're likely to assume something bad happens to you because of external sources and something bad happens to others because of internal reasons.
Don't 'half' or pseudo-listen. Folding clothes and talking is one thing; reading email and trying to talk isn't really the best use of anyone's time. If you aren't able to give a person your full attention, tell them "I can give you my undivided attention at another time (hopefully offering another time). Right now isn't a good time."
Avoid using “should” have, “would” have, “ought” to, never and always.
Practice listening. Get out of your head and do more than hear- embrace. It takes energy and time so listen when you can do it mindfully.
 
Communication Skills
Communication is NOT a natural ability. You can always be a better communicator. 
Ask, "What do you understand?" rather than "do you understand?" Likewise, ask "what about that makes sense?" rather than "does that make sense?"
Paraphrase by saying "what I think I hear you saying is…."  and ask, "is there anything else?" when you are talking to someone, especially about a serious matter.
Don't “ASSUME” (assuming makes an ASS out of U and Me) and can lead to misunderstandings.  Perception check, "you did/said X, which made me think Y, but I wanted to make sure I wasn't misreading what you did/said."
Ask, "Is this a good time to talk?" when you start a conversation. 
When turning down an invitation say, "but I'd love to be invited again so please ask" if, in fact, this is the case.
If you're not willing to say it to someone's face, don't write it in an email. Especially don't write it in an email to someone ELSE.
Take your time answering requests and making decisions (if you have time); you'll be glad to have the time to make an informed decision and give a thoughtful response. 
Don’t use a personal conversation as a way to self-promote.
If you are about to write/do something out of anger/frustration/fear; STOP. Write it, let it sit until you've had a good night's sleep. Send it to yourself as a nudgemail and give it some time to rest.
Set limits if you have a deadline at the outset of a conversation or meeting. Say, "I need to be somewhere else at X so we need to wrap things up by Y."
Apologize, expressing remorse, acknowledge of wrongdoing, accepting responsibility, and offering to repair. 
 
 


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Fall and Halloween Events -- 2019 Edition 

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Events, Holidays and Special EventsIt was a great Halloween! Next year Halloween is on a SATURDAY!  Fun to come!  Make sure to join Park Slope Parents to be up on all of the action!
Here are some PHOTOS of the Parade:
Susan Fox Photos 
Don Wiss Photos
 
 


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SURVIVING THANKSGIVING

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special EventsHow to survive the Thanksgiving Holidays
 
NOTE from Park Slope Parents, November 2020: If you're meeting up with relatives this holiday season, getting tested for the coronavirus is a great way to help put your mind at ease and keep your family as safe as possible. We have an article on Covid Testing in Brooklyn: Where to Go and What to Know, which includes guidance on testing and quarantining for travelers; links to important public health information; and reviews from members of testing sites in Brooklyn. Stay safe out there, NYC!
 
There's a not so funny joke that goes like this:
"Why your family is so good at pushing your buttons?"
"Why?"
"Because they installed them!"
So as you go into the holidays next week (I’m giving you a week to prepare) try to remember that it took years to learn those now-instant knee-jerk reactions to the crazy things that your family does. I don't know about you, but it's hard not to turn into the 13 year old runt of the family when I'm around them.
Partners? You have the fun task of being between a rock and a hard place. You're "damned if you do and damned if you don’t." If you criticize your 'in-laws', you're screwed. If you don't criticize your in-laws (and god forbid talk about how their side of the story may make sense) you're also screwed.
So---Here are some tips that you and your partner can use to keep the peace during the Holidays, adapted from this Jezebel article "Social Minefield: How You (and Your Partner) Can Survive Thanksgiving with the Family."
 


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Ways to Give 2019

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special Events, DonationsGiving is a great way to help those who need a hand up this holiday season. We have many ways to help, including gift drives, warm winter wear drives and more.  For any of the great drives below, feel free to organize a toy drive with your office or your baby group!  Have a holiday party potluck and have people bring gifts to donate.
 
Share these drives with work colleagues, block associations, or on social media. Every little bit helps!
 
 
The 2019 Little Essentials' Toy Drive
 
Suport Little Essentials Holiday Toy Drive and shop their Holiday Wish List on Amazon at from November 18th to December 2nd. 
 
DETAILS: Select the gifts and send to the address near the top of the page: Little Essentials c/o Tribeca Pediatrics' Gift Registry Address
Little Essentials is a PSP favorite not-for-profit partner. They are a community response to a community need, helping families with children under 5 who live at or below the poverty line. PSP has  worked with them for 7 years, ever since founder and Ft. Greene mom Sandie Trombert had her living room chock full of donated items from her baby group friends to distribute to people less fortunate.
Deadline: December 20th
 
 
 
2019 Sheltering Arms Winter Wonders Gift Drive
 
Use Sheltering Arms Gift Registry for gifts ideas that kids and teens would love to open this holiday season.
 
Working with Foster Care, and with feedback from our youth 13+ , we decided to provide older youth with gift cards. We kindly ask that families consider donating gift cards (which can be found on the Amazon wishlist) to help us ensure our youth can purchase what they need/want. We have approximately 90 youth who are 13 years old and over. Of course, there is a need for gifts for children of all ages so we would be grateful to receive any gift that your families choose to donate. 
After making your gift, please fill out their online Donation Form - found at https://forms.gle/F5VxBdjZvCGZYVWB8  if you need a tax letter.
 
Select Sheltering Arms’ Gift Registry Address for the shipping address
 Enter your name, your Organization’s name if applicable, your contact information and the name of the Wishlist you chose your gift(s) from
E.g. 2019 Winter Wonders - Foster Care in the 'Gift Message' field.
If you're donating several gifts from the same wishlist, you only have to enter this information once on the first item listed in checkout
 
Questions? Contact Diana Ortiz at 
    or (212) 886-5771.
Deadline: Thursday, December 5th (EXTENDED)
 
 
 
Lantern Winter Gift Drive 2019
More than 23,000 children age out of the US foster care system every year. 
After reaching the age of 18, 20% of the children who were in foster care will become instantly homeless.
Lantern Community Services champions the independence and well-being of New York City youth who are threatened with homelessness.
This holiday, many of our youth don’t have families to turn to at all.
With your help, we’ll make sure that every single one of them receives a gift.
 
Each gift on their Amazon Wishlist is only around $20. 
Please consider donating to our Amazon Wishlist  
Or, gifts may be mailed to: 
Lantern Community Services Holiday Gift Drive
c/o Karisa Antonio
494 8th Avenue, 20th Floor
New York, NY 10001
 Lantern is a 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit and we would love to give you a letter acknowledging your donation for your tax records. To receive a tax letter, go here  and fill out their form.
 Questions? 
    

Donate to the 31st Annual New York Cares Coat Drive!
For the last 31 years, New York Cares has channeled the generosity of our city into our annual Coat Drive. Last year we distributed our two millionth coat, and this year our goal is to collect 100,000 new or gently used coats for New Yorkers in need in partnership with social service agencies, public schools, transitional housing shelters, and other nonprofit organizations. 
 
You can donate new or gently used winter coats at a variety of locations citywide, including any NYPD precinct or our warehouse in Midtown (located at 157 W 31st St, New York, NY 10001). You can also start a collection, or help us purchase new coats at wholesale prices by texting “COAT” to 474747. Every $20 donated will keep a fellow New Yorker warm this winter. The Coat Drive is a proud tradition that shows what New York City is really about: giving back to the community by looking out for one another ❤️
 
Learn more about the Coat Drive on our website:https://www.newyorkcares.org/coat-drive.
 
If you have any questions please email us at 
   or call us at (212) 402-1103.
 
 
PS 321 COAT DRIVE
December 2-6 coats will be collected in the school entrance (180 Seventh Avenue_.The coats will be distributed to families in need through St. Mary's Episcopal Church.
 
2019 Holiday Drive at Borough Hall
 
 
 
Shot's for Tots Toy Drive
November 29-December 22(Confirmed date) 
Butter & Scotch
818 Franklin Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11225
O:347.350.8890
W: butterandscotch.com
A box will be located in the space to collect toys and a shot is offered for each patron that brings in a new toy."
 
 
 
 
 


2019 Holiday Guide to Tree Lightings, Caroling, Santa Photos and More!

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special EventsHere 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). Holiday window displays run until the new year! 
  
 
New Year’s Eve Events
 
New Years Eve at Grand Army Plaza
Tuesday, December 31st, 2019
10:30 pm
Join Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams and Prospect Park Alliance  for Brooklyn's most spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration at Prospect Park's iconic Grand Army Plaza. This free event includes live entertainment by Brooklyn’s own Quintessential Playlist, followed by fireworks at the stroke of midnight. This family-friendly fireworks display, now in its 39th year, attracts tens of thousands of revelers to Prospect Park, making it one of the city's most popular celebrations.
 
Brooklyn Bridge New Year's Eve
Tuesday, December 31st, 2019
Take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge and see the fireworks from the bridge!
 
New Year's Eve with the New York Philharmonic
Tuesday, December 31st, 2019
7:30pm
Living legend and multi-award winner Stephen Sondheim’s oeuvre takes center stage at the New York Philharmonic’s New Year’s Eve concert, featuring Tony Award winner Katrina Lenk (The Band’s Visit) — soon to star in Company — and music from Company, Into the Woods, Sunday in the Park with George, Sweeney Todd, and more. Ring in 2020 with the Philharmonic and the music of this American master!
 
Coney Island New Years Eve Fireworks Celebrations
Tuesday, December 31st, 2019
Midnight.
Fireworks at midnight. 
 
 
Other FAMILY New Year's Ideas
Have a party! Party hats and poppers are a must.  Make glittery slime! Have celebration mocktails (don't forget the umbrella). Have goodie bags for every hour up until the new year with something fun!
Get glow sticks to add to the fun. Oh! Make the party have "faux" ball drop time (e.g. 8pm, "Happy New Year"). Set alarm clocks, phones, and watches to all go off at an earlier time. That  way kids feel like they get an experience of New Year's without having to deal with "too little sleep" fallout.
Create a playlist of the year's favorite songs and play it on the drive home from vacation, at your New Year's Eve party, or any time.
Review the year.  Look at photos from the last year, talk about the highlights and plan more fun for the next year.  If you have a gratitude jar, read the last year's entries
Start a Gratitude Jar. Write down the things you were grateful for over the past year.
New Year’s Day 
Going to start new year's resolutions? Start small rather than big sweeping changes. It also takes an average of 21 days to have a new behavior become a habit so be patient and give yourself a LOT of encouragement.
 
 
 
 
 
 Plan your Photos With Santa
The Old Stone House Photos with Santa Fundraiser (co-hosted by Park Slope Parents)
December 14th from 10am - 12pm
The Old Stone House (5th Ave between 3rd and 4th Streets). 
Santa Claus is coming to town on December 14! From 10 am – Noon Santa will be making a pit stop in Park Slope; join us for a seasonal photo session with professional photographer Marc Goldberg.
We’re co-hosting the day with the Old Stone House and the Park Slope Fifth Ave BID. There will be crafts and hot cocoa to keep everyone cozy while Marc takes photos on a first-come-first-served basis.
For $10, each family will receive a water-marked portrait from Marc, he will also have all of the photos available for purchase on his website and visitors are welcome to snap their own keepsake selfies.
If you would like to support family programming like this all year round, become a member of the Old Stone House & Washington Park for $35 and get your photo session for free!
Photos with Santa at Items of Interest
Park Slope
Saturdays and Sundays  November 23rd – December 22nd
Macy’s Santaland at Herald Square
November 29th – December 24th
Reservations only now, and you get there and still wait, but the Santaland keeps folks occupied. It's still a great tradition.
Free Santa pic @ Bed Bath Beyond Industry city
Dec7/8th 
Times available on EventBrite
From PSP member: “I just signed up on eventbrite, the Industry City Bed Bath Beyond is having  a free photo with Santa at their Winter Wonderland. You can sign up for a time slot on eventbrite for Dec 7th/Dec 8th.  :)”
Santa Photos at Kings Plaza
Daily from Now – December 24th
Reserve your spot online. 
 
 
EVENTS THAT HAVE PASSED
 
Christmas Eve
Arturo O'Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestraat All Saints' Episcopal Church
Tuesday December 24th, 2019
9 pm: Free Holiday Concert
10 pm: Christmas Eve Eucharist featuring ALJO
Grammy-award winning Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra will return to the home parish of its director, Arturo O'Farrill, on Christmas Eve. The ALJO's unique blend of big band jazz, Latin musical culture, and virtuosic performance shines in the setting of this historic Park Slope church building. Arturo and the ALJO offer this free holiday concert as a gift to the community and perform as part of the Christmas Eve service. All are welcome.
For more info see http://www.allsaintsparkslope.org/
All Saints Church Christmas Eve Services
4pm Family Eucharist
9pm Arturo O'Farrill Christmas Concert
10pm Festival Eucharist
All Christmas Eve services include candlelight & Holy Communion
Church of the Holy Apostles
Tuesday December 24th, 2019
4pm
Holy Eucharist
Christmas Concert, Pageant, and candlelighting.
Park Slope United Methodist Church 
Tuesday December 24th, 2019
4pm
Christmas Eve Service 
 
Christmas Day 
All Saints Church Christmas Service
10:00 a.m. Feast of the Nativity w/ Carols - Nave
 
Weekend of November 29th, 30th, and December 1st
The Fifth Avenue Tree Lighting 
November 30th, 2019
5th Ave and 4th St
4pm -6pm, tree lighting at 6 pm
Music by Dr. Alex – a Park Slope kid and parent musician
Carolers from Park Slope Conservatory. Santa will go out in a vintage car before arriving at the tree lighting. Stilt walkers and steel drummers from Tropical Fete. Bubbledad. Arts and crafts with Puppetry Arts. Treats from Down to Earth Markets & Insomnia Cookies. TD Bank table with giveaways and hot chocolate.
CLICK OUR READ MORE TO PLAN AHEAD FOR THE COMING WEEKS!
 
Events December 2nd through December 8th
Dyker Park Tree LightingDecember 4
6:30 pm 
Dyker Park @86th St and 14th Ave 
2nd Annual Tree of Angels Tree Lighting CeremonyDecember 5 
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
In front of Borough Hall in the Plaza
Tree Lighting @ Shore Road Park GazeboDecember 5 
6:30 pm 
Shore Road Park Gazebo @ 90th St and Shore Road
Christmas Tree Lighting @ Grand Army Plaza
December 5th
5 pm
This year, the Diocese of Brooklyn’s Christmas Tree will be lit on Thursday, December 5 at 5 pm at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Arch at Grand Army Plaza. The tree will remain lit 24/7 in red lights—the only such tree in NYC—until January 2019. This annual tradition of displaying the Christmas Tree and Nativity Creche brings the spirit and joy of the Christmas season to Prospect Park and the Brooklyn community.
DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 5th
4pm – 7pm (tree lighting at 6pm sharp)
Pearl Street Triangle 
https://dumbo.is/lighting-the-tree
Tree Lighting at Investor's Bank-- Dyker Heights BranchDecember 6
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 
7414 Dyker 13th Avenue  
Osborn Plaza Tree LightingDecember 6
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 
Osborn Street and Belmont Ave
Santa, Hot Cocoa, Caroling, and more!  
Thomas Greene Park Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 6th
Park is located in Gowanus at 3rd Avenue and Douglass Street.
 Santa in North Slope 
Saturday December 7th, 2019
2-4 pm 
Santa will be walking the Avenue from Dean to The Old Stone House from 2-4pm. Come find him get a candy cane and a photo!
Organized by the 5th Avenue BID. 
SinterKlass- St. Nicolas Day
Saturday, December 7th
1pm – 4pm
Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum (5816 Clarendon Road)
Santa Claus will ride in on horseback at 2:30pm and photos with Santa. (for a fee)
Santa comes to the other 5th in Park Slope
Saturday, December 7th 
2pm – 4pm
5th Ave, from Dean to The Old Stone House.
Santa will be walking the Avenue from Dean to The Old Stone House from 2-4pm. Come find him get a candy cane and a photo!
Jingle Fest! Holiday Concert & Cookie Swap
Saturday, December 7th
3pm-- 5pm
3pm Concert
All Saints' Episcopal Church (286-88 7th Ave at 7th Street, Park Slope)
Join the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music for a joyful holiday family concert followed by our fourth annual cookie swap. Bring a batch of your favorite cookies to exchange and get one FREE ticket per family.
Ticket includes cookies, cider, hot chocolate and a photo op with Santa!
Carroll Park Holiday Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 7th, 2019
6 – 7pm
4:30 PM -  5:30 PM
Friends of Carroll Park will sing songs and light the Christmas trees.
Louis Valentino, Jr. Ballfield
Christmas Tree Lighting at Greenwood Park 
Saturday, December 7th
4 pm, Tree Lighting at 6:30 pm 
Greenwood Park, 555 7th Avenue
5th Annual Fort Greene Park Holiday Tree Lighting  (Changed from 12/2)
Sunday, December 8 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Fort Greene Park – Myrtle & St Edwards Entrance, 282 Myrtle Avenue
Gather with neighbors for the annual event that is full of holiday cheer, including:
☕  FREE hot cocoa, cider & cookies from local Myrtle Ave restaurants
 
Events December 13th through December 15th
CAMBA Tree Lighting @ the Armory Shelter
Thursday, December12 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
CAMBA Women's Shelter, 1402 8th Avenue, South Slope
Sing songs, drink hot cocoa, eat cookies, watch the lighting of the armory decorations and enjoy the beauty of the armory.
Santa at the Atlantic Terminal Mall|
Thursday, December 12th, 5pm - 7pm
139 Flatbush Avenue
 Life-size snow globe photo op, live music, selfies with Santa, Winter Wonderland community art & much more!
 
Weekend of December 13th, 14th, and 15th
Brooklyn Borough Hall Tree Lighting 
Wednesday, December 11th
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Holiday refreshments and musical entertainment at the annual tree lighting.
Borough Hall Plaza
Sing-A-Long Movie Spectacular @ PS 282
Wednesday, December 11th
5:30 pm - 8 pm
Proceeds go toward enrichment programs
180 6th Avenue
Photos with Santa Claus at the Old Stone House
Saturday, December 14th
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.
Santa in Center Slope 
Saturday December 14th, 2019 
2-4 pm
Catch Santa shopping from 9th Street to The Old Stone House. Come find him and get a candy cane and a photo!
Organized by the 5th Avenue BID. 
Merry On Myrtle Winter Festival 
Saturday, December 14th
12-3pm 
While holiday shopping, enjoy live ice sculpting, music, crafts for kids, and more seasonal fun in the Myrtle Avenue Plaza. All activities are FREE.
From Classon Ave to Washington Park 
Caroling with All Saints Church Park Slope
Saturday, December 14th
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!  Join us for an afternoon of caroling.
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 in a few spots around the neighborhood, then return 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   ">
  .
Jingle Bell Jamboree
Saturday, December 14th 
7 pm 
After a 4 year hiatus, the annual Park Slope family concert and sing-a-long is returning to Old First Church in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
Klezmer Hanukkah Party
Saturday, December 14th
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/event/klezmerhanukkah19/
Winterfest 2019
Saturday, December 14th
11am - 4pm
Brooklyn Friends School, 375 Pearl Street
Crafts and workshops suitable for all ages!
Holiday Market at P.S. 118
Saturday, December 14th
11am - 5pm
Inside P.S. 118 at 211 8th St. and 4th Ave.
Holiday shopping season is here--and we've got the perfect gift for everyone on your list! Join us at the second annual PS118 Holiday Market on Saturday, December 14, from 11 am to 5 pm, at PS118 (on 8th Street between 4th and 5th Avenues). During this fabulous, festive event, each floor of our school is transformed: The cafeteria becomes a delightful café and all the other floors are filled with children's activities, crafts, jewelry, and more (all for sale!) So much shopping! Proceeds benefit PS118.
2nd Annual Brower Park Library Winter Festival
Saturday, December 14th
11am - 4pm
Brower Park Library, 725 St. Marks Avenue
The event includes a special story time, an art workshop, and a special visit (and photo opportunity) with Santa.  Hot cider and donuts will help us celebrate the holidays. Come kick off the winter season with us!
The Great Christmas Tree: A participation play for children. 
11 am, Saturday, December 14th
12 pm, Sunday, December 15th 
119 14th St, Brooklyn
$8 
Matt Heaton's Holiday Hootenanny
Sunday, December 15th
11am
Jalopy Theater, 315 Columbia 
$10-15 
Matt Heaton’s Holiday Hootenanny is a dance-filled, laugh-laced concert for the whole family. With his band the Outside Toys, Heaton performs hits from his shiny new album “Snow Day!” (Because nothing says holidays like fiddle drenched honky-tonk numbers, retro hi fi guitar stylings, and a rock solid rhythm section.)
PSJC Chanukkah Party
Sunday, December 15th
3-5 pm
1320 8th Ave
Start the celebrating early with crafts, high stakes dreidel games, donut making, a sing-a-long with PSJC holiday favorite Abe, and much more! Wear your favorite Chanukkah sweater, pajamas, or other apparel and enter the raffle for tasty treats.
Sign up to join the fun at https://www.psjc.org/event/psjc-hanukkah-party.html or just show up on Sunday!
 
Events December 16th through December 22nd
 
Holiday Sing-a-long and Fundraiser!  
Tuesday December 17th 
10:00 am
Da Nonna Rosa, 140 7th Avenue
Suggested donatation: $20
Fundraiser to benefit CHiPS, a local soup kitchen, and Little Essentials! 
HOLIDAY CAROLING with Brooklyn Conservatory 
Fri., December 20 
6:30 pm
Start at 58 7th Avenue, set off around planned routes around Park Slope
A beloved Brooklyn Conservatory tradition--holiday caroling! Please join us as we spread cheer throughout the neighborhood. FREE. All ages, voices, faiths welcome, and no caroling experience is necessary.
RSVP and info here.
Santa in South Slope 
Saturday December 21st, 2019
2-4 pm 
Shopping with Santa in South Slope from to 18th St in a vintage car then walking from 18th to The Old Stone House 2-4pm come get a candy cane and take a photo.
Organized by the 5th Avenue BID. 
Christmas Caroling and Services at Holy Apostles
Saturday December 22st, 2019
4 pm 
Church of the Holy Apostles
612 Greenwood Ave
Lend you voice and join us on Sunday, December 22nd at 4pm for our annual neighborhood Christmas caroling. We will begin on the steps of the church and travel on foot together.
 
Looking for ways to give this season? Check out the Park Slope Parents supported Holiday Drives (with a few others we found!)
 
What are we missing? Email   " style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
   with more ideas.
 


Membership Perks

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashHere are the PERKS to your Park Slope Parents membership!
Not a PSP member and are a parent in Brooklyn?  Join here.
If you’re a business and you want to become a Membership Perks Provider and give discounts to our members, please click here for more info and CLICK HERE to enroll.
Download/print your membership card and have it handy to redeem your membership perks. Step-by-step instructions here.
DOWNLOAD the image to your phone. Make it a favorite so it’s easy to find. Also keep a copy keep a copy on the desktop for easy access.
PRINT the card. Select “wallet” as the print option.
 
To see all of our perks in one place, click here!
 Follow our new Park Slope Parents Perks Instagram, where we will feature these discounts in daily posts and stories. 
 
Perks for Kids
 
 
 
 
Perks for Health
 
 
 
Perks for Adults
 
 
 
 
Perks for House and Home
 
 
 
 
 
 Perks for Businesses and Services
 
 
 
 
Perks for Baby Birthing
 
 


2019 Holiday Tips Survey: The Results are IN! 

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
 
Here are the key findings from the annual Park Slope Parents Holiday Tips Survey in which Brooklyn residents report their upcoming end-of-year gifts to service providers, nannies, and teachers.
Gifts for K-12 teachers have risen.  The amount people are giving to K-12 teachers is up from last year. The most frequently given amount to these teachers is $50 this year, up from $25 last year. 
Tips to neighborhood service providers are down from prior years. Reported tips for supers, door security, occasional babysitters, and more are down from last year. 
NYC urban living has its costs. Having a full-time nanny, dog walker, parking attendant and living in a doorman building with a super will cost you around $1800 in tips if you gift this year's average. 
Folks are showing gratitude with more than just money. One in three (32%) are giving something more than cash (homemade cookies, treats, wine) to their service providers. 
Almost all employers with nannies plan on giving a monetary bonus this year (97%). Three in four (77%) give a week’s pay as a bonus. Caveat: If your nanny hasn’t been working a year then you can give less, (e.g., ½ week’s pay if they’ve worked only 3 months) but do let the nanny know if you plan on giving more next year. 
ALSO: Don’t assume a week off without pay is something that your nanny will appreciate. Unless otherwise discussed when you hired your nanny, giving the nanny the week between Christmas and New Year without pay is frowned upon. Most would rather work for pay than miss out on money to support their family.
Daycare and preschool teachers feel the gratitude.Typical monetary gifts for both head and secondary teachers is $50. Unlike K-12, parents typically give separately with only two out of three (68%) giving an individual gift only.
Power in (organized) numbers. Eight in ten (80%) parents with kids in K-12 students contribute to a class gift. 
Thank everyone. A kind gesture to the folks that support your life (e.g., crossing guards, lunch staff, accountants, after school staff, tutors, and therapists) is always appreciated!
 
DETAILED FINDINGS: 
Personal Neighborhood Service Providers:
 
Home Related Providers
Average Tip/Gift
Mode 
Difference from 2018
Superintendent
$102
$100 
-$20 
House Cleaner
$108 
$100 
-$1 
Daytime Doorman
$77
$50 
-$29 
Dog Walker
$104
$100 
+4
Occasional Babysitter
$72
$100 
-$49 
Nighttime Doorman
$66 
$50 
-$14 
Porter
$55
$50 
-$15 
Hair Stylist 
$53 
$20 
-$7 
Parking Attendant
$48
$40 
-$3 
Package Delivery (non-USPS)
$28 
$20 
$0 
USPS Mail Carrier
$24
$20 
-$1 
New York Sanitation Department Garbage/Truck Recycling
$24 
$20 
$0 
TOTAL
761
--
-$135 
 
Daycare, Preschool, and K-12 Teachers
Almost everyone (88%) contributes to a combined class gift to K-12 teachers. Some parents use websites and apps like Frumus, Venmo, Payit2 and Signup Genius to organize and pool donations.
 
Type of Teacher
Average Tip/Gift
Mode
Preschool/Daycare Head Teacher
$65
$50
Preschool/Daycare Secondary Teacher
$51
$50
K-12 Teacher*
$45
$50
Special Services Teacher
$33
$25
Afterschool Service Providers
$33
$20
 
Is it against the DOE policy to give teachers’ gifts? It is NOT the case that Department of Education K-12 teachers cannot receive gifts. Department of Education policy states: “Teachers may accept class gifts as long as parents are not asked to contribute more than a small amount of money towards the gift and all parents are given an opportunity to sign the card, whether or not they contribute to the gift.” However, be reasonable—extravagant gifts could get your teacher in hot water!

*Learn more about holiday gifts for teachers, including do’s and don’ts, in the Park Slope Parents’ article: How to Thank Teachers at the Holidays & End of the Year.

Nannies
ALL of the respondents (100%) are using the holidays as an opportunity to give a yearly bonus or gifts.
83% of employers give amounts incremental to a week’s pay. Of these, 77% give a week’s pay, 22% give two week’s pay, and 2% give three week’s pay.
The average end-of-year bonus a nanny will receive is $688.
Almost half (46%) of Brooklyn families with a nanny also give a non-monetary purchased gift as well as a bonus.  More than 20% also give a homemade gift. 
 
Nanny Situation
Average Amount 2019
Average Amount 2018
Average Amount 2017
Average Amount 2016
Average Amount 2015
Average Amount 2014
Full time (over 40 hours/week) 
$1043
$1083
$1032
$969
$832
$1005
Part-time (16-40 hours)    
$605
$530
$551
$540
$487
$597
Part-time (up to 15 hours) 
$210
$198
$215
$284
$241
$167
OVERALL Average for Nanny
$688
$765
$762
$760
$724*
$623
 
Has your nanny worked for less than a year? If a nanny has worked for less than a year but more than three months, most employers give at least a half-week of pay. Make sure to inform your nanny that you intend to give a full-week’s pay next year, if things work out. Also, if you give bonuses on anniversaries rather than the end-of-year, remind them of that timeline.   
Since newer nannies (those who have worked less than three months) may feel left out without a bonus, we suggest giving a bonus worth about 2-3 days pay. Again, make sure to give an explanation of your reasoning, and tell them what they can expect next year. Clarity about when your nanny can expect raises and bonuses is key.
As always, a heartfelt note with sincere gratitude (maybe a list of specific things you appreciate) always warms the heart and makes folks special and thanked. (Feel free to do that to EVERYONE in your life!)
 
METHODOLOGY:
Park Slope Parents collected 482 responses from December 1 - December 9th, 2109 via an online survey program (surveymonkey.com). The survey was distributed online through the Park Slope Parents website, their email groups and social media outlets, online blogs, and other online parenting/ neighborhood groups (Yahoo! Groups, FaceBook, Groups.io and more). The results are based on tips and gifts in Brooklyn only.
  
ABOUT PARK SLOPE PARENTS 
Park Slope Parents (PSP) is a community in Brooklyn, NY of more than 7,000 local families who offer each other support and community throughout the parenting experience. 
PSP online resources include a public website with member reviews and parenting advice, online forums including an Advice List (exchanging information about parenting and community issues), a Classifieds list (a local buy/sell/trade group for swapping kid gear and finding nannies), and a Career Networking Group which connects parents to jobs and professional resources. It also has over 100 subgroups including pregnancy and new parent, dads, working moms, bilingual, LGBTQ, industry-related career, cooking, gardening, allergy, vegetarian and more.
PSP offers offline, in-person events including parenting workshops, clothing swaps, community fundraisers, and networking events.
PSP also partners with nonprofits such as the Brooklyn Family Justice Center, Little Essentials, Sheltering Arms, and Lantern Community Services to provide donations to those in need.
PSP also sponsors community events such as the Celebrate Brooklyn Concerts, Prospect Park Alliance events, and more
Park Slope Parents is open to all parents in Brooklyn and requires an annual membership fee of $50 ($45 for renewals) to support ongoing services (like this Holiday Tips Survey). Membership includes discounts to more than 500 local products and services. 
Parents in Brooklyn can apply for membership here: https://parkslopeparents.clubexpress.com/
 
 


PSP Members-Only Kids Clothing, Gear, and Maternity Swap!

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashPlease join us for the PSP Members-Only Kids Clothing, Gear, and Maternity Swap!
 
This is our most beloved event of the year! NEW Extended Hours!

When:   Saturday, March 7th
Time:    10:00AM - 2:30PM
     Last entry at 2:10PM
Where:  All Saints Church, 463A 7th Street, entrance on 7th Street (the Park Slope Senior Center)
Cost:     $5.00/member - only payable at the door
Download/Print your membership card as it is REQUIRED to enter: Here’s how: http://bit.ly/MembershipCard_DL

IF YOU NEED TO, RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP HERE. 
NOT A MEMBER?  Sign up and become a member to start enjoying events like these and more! http://bit.ly/JOINPSP
 
​
 


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IMPORTANT: Coping, Connection and Strength with Park Slope Parents

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
Given these current uncertain times, we wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the severity of not just the health concerns around coronavirus but also the emotional fallout. We will leave the dissemination of medical information to the best resources (CDC, NYC.gov, WHO, DOE), but we did want to highlight some of the more emotional aspects of the spread of COVID-19 and what you can do to mediate it.
There’s a ton of uncertainty right now… which can be stressful and emotional. Worrying about elderly relatives and immunocompromised family members and friends is real. There is also a lot of concern about possible school closures, financial repercussions, travel plans, working situations, and childcare issues. This stress can impact our mood, health, and interactions with others. 
We need to be diligent with our hygiene to protect ourselves and others... this takes extra work. This includes staying home when you or your kids are sick; washing your hands; avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; conscientious cleaning; and not shaking hands. These measures, albeit necessary, take extra time and attention in our already busy lives and can add an emotional toil as well.
You and your kids may be disappointed and sad… and that’s understandable. Local as well as school events are being cancelled, some schools have closed, and there may be family trips, parties, and meetups you’re not attending. While it’s important we keep people safe, and not the end of the world to skip an event, know that not interacting with friends and family can upset kids (and grown-ups). Acknowledging our own disappointment and our kids’ disappointment is part of this coping.
What can we do to get through these stressful times?
 


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Your Nanny and COVID 19: Thoughts from our Park Slope Parents Members

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
As Brooklynites practice hand washing, social distancing, and working from home, many families are wondering: how do I compensate my nanny? A question posted to our Advice List got quite a few responses. It seems that, for those who can afford it, paying your nanny full-time and keeping the channels of communication wide open is the current standard. 
 
Circumstances making it hard pay your nanny? Consider posting on the PSP Classifieds. Here’s how to post for your nanny, and also how to find a nanny. Due to current and impending school closures, there may be an influx of people looking for childcare; you may have just what they need! Nanny shares are also a great option, so check our PSP Guide to a Successful Nanny Share. If we come together as a community, we can help each other out! 
Hand in Hand also has a great article you should look at: How to be a Fair Employer During the Coronavirus Crisis in New York
 
THE QUESTION:
 
“Is anyone else thinking about how to compensate childcare providers who will not be able to work due to the outbreak? Our beloved nanny travels an hour and fifteen minutes on the train to be with us each day, which is seeming like a worse idea with every passing hour. I make the same commute in the opposite direction (go fig) and have just been given leave to work remotely. We offer our nanny paid sick days, aid vacation, and paid holidays, but the impending shutdown of schools, public transit, etc, could go on for quite some time. I know we're not the only people caught on the horns of this dilemma. What are other families thinking and doing regarding compensation?”
 
THE ANSWERS:
 
 


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Have A Nanny? Here's some HELP in getting through Coronavirus

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Advice - Health and Healing, Nanny 101
Denise and Samantha, 2004
 
Below is a letter from our Founder and President, Susan Fox, posted to our Listserv and shared here for the benefit of our community.
 
--------------------------------------------------------
 
Hey All,
 
I’ve been in touch with the folks from the Carroll Gardens Nanny Association. They had a meeting with nannies who are part of their organization. I wanted to share some of their concerns, as well as some issues that have come up on Park Slope Parents:
 
Will I be paid if my employer deems that I shouldn’t come to work? How about if I don’t think it’s safe to come to work?  Will pay come out of my paid time off (if I have any to begin with) or vacation time? 
Will my employer pay for transportation (uber, lyft) if they don’t want me to travel on the subway?  Will they pick me up if they have a car?
If my employer-family self-quarantines will I also be expected to self-quarantine?  
If I’m working for two families part-time, how will I be expected to cover more hours for one or both families due to kids being home from school? Is a nanny share a possibility and how will that work?
Is it reasonable to be asked to bring a change of clothes to my employer’s house and shower when I get to work?
Will the family have food in the house so I don’t have to go out and get groceries?
If schools closes, is it okay for me to bring my child to work?  How will I get to work?  Will I be expected to pay for my travel if I have to bring my child?
What happens if my family is unable to pay me because of their own loss of work?  Are they going to help me find a new job if they can no longer afford to pay me? What will happen?
If I’m asked to take care of another family’s children along with my current family am I allowed to say, “no”? Will I be compensated?
If schools close and I’m taking care of more children than usual will I get a break?
What happens if I get sick but have no paid time-off saved? Will I still get paid?
How will I be compensated if I am asked to work additional hours for my family (part time to full time, more overtime hours)?
Will I be expected to take care of a child with coronavirus? How will I be protected?
 


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[Special] Update from PSP Headquarters: It's going to be OK!

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashHey All,
Thought I would pop in and give an update on life here at the PSP headquarters. I had a lot of time to think on my whirlwind drive to Ann Arbor, Michigan to pick up my daughter. I wanted to give some ramblings about the state of the world according to me.
1. Holy Cow there were lots of trucks on the road!  I found it really reassuring that there were lots of people delivering supplies. It lessened my feelings that all the store shelves will be emptied forever. 
2. The break from the media was super useful at clearing my head. Not being bombarded with all the media was like removing a huge heavy backpack.  I’ve gone on a media diet that contains just essential news, fun videos that make me smile, and connections to people who are adding positively to the situation.
3. Stay connected. Zoom just may be what will get us through the next few weeks.We’ve had some great remote meetings, and it’s just nice to hear other voices and experiences.  Eighty-two Dads played online poker on Tuesday. The PSP Crafting group Zoomed last night and it was fun to look at people’s projects (waiting on the wet felting geode project) and do something together. We’re rolling out baby group meetups today. If you want to be connected, write 
   and we’ll make something happen. Phone a friend and stay connected. 
4.Everyone has a different way of dealing with things and we need to keep that in mind and open our hearts to be more compassionate than we ever have.I’ve decided that the whole toilet paper mayhem is really about control-- people needing to feel like they have some sense of power over the situation. Other people need to lash out occasionally to let off some of their tension. (Don’t worry, I’m not taking it personally when it’s directed at me.)  When I finally got in the rental car to pick up my daughter 620 miles away I had a brief, hard cry, and then I was much better.  
5. People are losing work hand over fist. Think about folks like your nannies workers, house cleaners, and dog walkers. I’m also assuming that other folks such as nail salons, hairdressers, personal trainers, tutors, music teachers, massage therapists (who am I forgetting?) are hurting. Some services can be done remotely, others can’t.  If you can, spot them extra cash, maybe buy a gift certificate for future use or just give them an out of the blue tip. If there’s a virtual tip jar, give if you can. I’m figuring out how best to keep PSP members on board (and thanks for the suggestions and for those of you who want to support a fellow PSP member, stay tuned)—but know that if your finances are tight that you’ll always be welcome on PSP! Some of the local businesses have put out a letter about trying to stay afloathere.
6. Many of us are in dogpaddle mode, not swim mode, with schoolwork for their kids.  I was on a Zoom with two teachers yesterday… they are working as fast as they can to get remote learning up and running for next week.  You do not have to become a homeschool teacher overnight, finding the best, age appropriate, math curriculum so that your child doesn’t fall behind.  Screen time until next week for sanity’s (and productivity’s) sake will not turn your kids brains into mush. 
7. This is a time to bond. Cooking together, playing games, co-viewing movies, taking walks together (yes, even in the rain) will help your family grow closer. It’s also important to each other distance, even in the hard to do close quarters.  Longer showers, baths, sleeping in later, one more episode of ____ (Daniel Tiger, Stranger Things, Care Bears) can go a long way toward being closer from a distance.
8. We’ve got to do our best to keep everyone safe. Only going out to stores when you absolutely need to, keeping safe distance from other people, avoid playgrounds, stay home if you’re sick, and keeping your hands washed will do a lot to help the spread of COVID-19.   I know there are essential people who have to work and their nannies are part of that mix. Remind your nannies to not congregate with others, keep playdates out of apartment hallways, and take extra precautions traveling throughout the city.
9. I’ve got to remember to move. Sitting in a car for 2 days and being holed up in one room isn’t fun or conducive to staying in shape.  A dance party and yoga is definitely in order today to keep my body active. There are lots of videos on YouTube you can access (some great ones for meditation as well) if money’s tight.
10. I’m finding the few things that I need to feel sane.  For some reason having honeycrisp apples in the house makes me feel like I’ll be able to get through anything. Someone I talked to yesterday ordered lots of her favorite tea so she could hunker down and feel sane. If you can find those few things that can help make you feel comfortable, make that happen. Someone posted this great resource for dealing with the anxiety.  
11. We all just need to breathe.We will get through this. It will get better. There are reports out of China that things are stabilizing (whew!), stores are opening, and that the number of cases is dropping. I’m holding on to this news tightly, knowing that while we may be in for some rough roads in the short term, things long term are promising!
12. Keep our local restaurants running.  Restaurants are hurting, so do your best to keep them coming. Some restaurants are delivering cocktails too (though be careful here). Delivery folks can use an extra big tip too.  I know NYC is working to help out small businesses, but we can do help in small ways too.
13. If you can, donate to our important not-for-profit organizations. Someone mentioned that we all may get a check from the government. If you know that you are still getting paid take some of that money and donate it to the organizations most hard hit. As someone on the list said, “spread the wealth, not the virus.”
14. PSP is continually trying to find the BEST ways to help. We’ve posted lots ofresources on the website, posted reminders about talking to your nanny, and are setting up Zoom Rooms to keep us all connected. We’re working on scavenger hunts, meditation sessions, pediatrician webinars, massage classes, and more.  If there are things that we can do, let us know!
15. I feel hopeful. Today is the first day of spring and while it’s rainy, that rain is helping make the flowers grow.  The number of people doing wonderful things to keep people connected (seeMutualAidNYC for example), fed, healthy, highlights the goodness in people. Our medical professionals are super-heroes. There are Quarantunes, people giving their music, dance, and expertise to the world right now. There’s a 6:30 Rooftop singalong (songslisthere) we should all join in on.
It may suck for a while, but then it will be okay. Looking forward to the time we can get together and have a PSP picnic in the park.  It will happen. And I’ll be there with my giant bubbles!
 
Susan Fox 
Park Slope Parents 
 


PSP Presents: Ask the Experts

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Health & Illness SupportPSP is helping get out the latest COVID 19 information to people with our Ask The Expert series. These are Q & A sessions with our members, posted to Youtube. See below for our videos thus far. 
 
Ask the Pediatrician, with Dr. Philippa Gordon. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ask the OBGYN, with Dr. John Brennan.
 


Delivery and Infancy during COVID-19: Top Tips from Experts

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
 
The current coronavirus crisis is a constantly moving target, with information and official guidance seeming to shift by the hour. Now more than ever, expectant New Yorkers are in need of reliable advice on how best to promote safety and health during the delivery process and the immediate days after. We hope these questions and answers from Jaqueline Worth, MD, and Julie G. Capiola, MD, IBCLC—sourced from a recent webinar hosted by boober founder Jada Shapiro—will be a source of reassurance during these uncertain times.
 
 
Please note: Information is changing daily regarding hospitals and policies. Please check with your birthing hospital and pediatrician for the most up to date information.
 
 
PRE-DELIVERY
 
Q: How should I handle prenatal physician visits? Are they still happening in person?
A: Dr. Worth recommends limiting nonessential visits, and is offering telemedicine for any patients who don’t feel safe coming to the office. She is providing urine dipsticks for patients and recommending that they have a blood pressure cuff and other instruments on hand to check their vitals. One thing that’s not possible remotely is checking the fetal heart rate, so Dr. Worth is advising patients to track fetal movement and using the results as a surrogate for healthy fetal status.
 
Q: Looking toward a potential shortage of hospital beds, should I consider being induced or scheduling a c-section?
A: It’s a reasonable question—should I just get it over with before things get worse? In making this decision, consider that induction does almost always expose a patient to a longer time in labor in the hospital (20+ hours), while a c-section is the fastest way to give birth but does expose a patient to a longer recovery time in the hospital.
 
Q: Am I more susceptible to coronavirus because I’m pregnant?
A: There’s no evidence that expectant parents are more susceptible to the virus or that it can be passed to the baby while pregnant.
 
Q: If I’m currently trying to get pregnant, should I stop?
A: It’s a good idea to delay a few weeks—just a brief pause—and then reassess.
 
DURING DELIVERY
 
Q: Are non-birthing partners being allowed into the delivery room?
A: This isn’t currently true at Dr. Worth’s hospital, but some hospitals are restricting who is allowed into the delivery room to guard against the spread of COVID-19. We have to accept this fact in the context of a public health emergency, and trust that the experts are doing what is necessary to protect us. Protocol is updated day to day, so check with your hospital.
 
Q: What are the options for virtual support during childbirth?
A: People may not realize that there’s such a thing as virtual doula care, but there certainly is, and boober is currently advising all clients to adopt it. Remember that, at this point, the guidance is to avoid other people completely. Having your doula in the delivery room via FaceTime, or even just being able to call them on the phone, can be a huge help.
 
Q: Regarding staffing and specifically the presence of nonessential staff in the delivery room, how are hospitals implementing safety protocols?
A: Dr. Worth reports that hospitals are trying to minimize the number of people in the room, both to keep parents safe and to reduce the risk for staff. If a birthing parent is COVID-positive, there would be an extra deep-cleaning protocol for the room.
 
POST-DELIVERY
 
Q: During and after delivery, will I have to be moved into a different hospital or otherwise adapt to a diminished number of rooms?
A: Dr. Worth has not heard anything about this possibility. There seems to be an effort to find additional spaces for coronavirus patients (e.g., Governor Cuomo has called for the Javits Center to be used as a field hospital) so that those in the hospital for reasons other than COVID-19 do not have to be displaced.
 
Q: We’ve heard it’s best to limit the time spent in the hospital. Are you discharging birthing parents earlier than usual?
A: Dr. Worth is trying to send people home a day early: one day post-birth for vaginal births, and two days post-birth for c-sections.
 
Q: What testing needs to be done on the baby, and how does early discharge affect testing plans?
A: If the baby is medically clear and needs to be discharged prior to 24 hours of life, then they still need to receive the New York State Newborn Screen and a congenital heart disease test in a timely fashion. Check with your doctor to see if they can receive these tests in your pediatrician’s office rather than in the hospital post-birth.
 
Q: Are hospitals reducing the number of shared recovery rooms to mitigate COVID-19 spread?
A: Dr. Worth has not heard anything about this possibility, but her hospital is having all babies rooming in.
 
Q: Will I have to be separated from my baby if I test positive for COVID-19?
A: The Royal College of London is not currently recommending separation. COVID-19 is not present in the breastmilk, so transmission would be through respiratory droplets. If the birthing parent tests positive, options would include breastfeeding with increased hygiene precautions (handwashing, mask) and pumping milk to be fed to the baby by a healthy individual. Regardless, parents should continue breastfeeding even if they test positive. The antibodies in the breastmilk will help protect the baby.
 
INFANCY
 
Q: How concerned should I be about newborns catching COVID-19?
A: In general, babies and children under 20 years have fared well with the virus. That said, a recent study showed a higher incidence of severe and complicated cases in the under one year population. However, some of the cases in that study were only presumed COVID-19; the babies might not even have had it, or they might have had it in addition to other respiratory problems affecting that age group, such as RSV. Bottom line: Play it safe and keep your under-one-year-old extra protected.
 
Q: What do I do if I think my newborn might be sick?
A: If a baby is under four weeks of age and has a fever, they must go to the hospital. That has always been true, regardless of COVID-19. Similarly, issues such as poor feeding, lethargy, and jaundice call for immediate care. To qualify as having a fever, a baby’s temperature must be 100.4°F or 38°C. Please use a rectal temperature for babies under two months of age in order to ensure the most accurate reading.
 
Q: Is it safe to use ibuprofen to treat COVID-19 symptoms?
A: At this time, the WHO has retracted their earlier statement that described increased risks associated with using ibuprofen to treat COVID-19. Dr. Capiola reminds you that the fever itself is not the problem (unless your baby is under eight weeks); rather, the fever is part of our body’s natural response to fighting an infection. If ibuprofen helps to make your feverish child more comfortable, then use it, but don’t feel like it’s crucial to bring that number down.
 
Q: Should I bring my infant in for their regularly scheduled early doctor’s visits?
A: The American Academy of Pediatrics stated this week that children up to four years old need to continue with their regularly scheduled early well visits, and especially their vaccinations. (The last thing we need is a pertussis epidemic on top of a COVID-19 pandemic). Older kids’ check-ups can be more optional or conducted via telemedicine.
 
Q: Can healthy, asymptomatic grandparents and family members visit my newborn?
A: At this point, the official recommendation is that people over 70 should not leave the home, and nonessential social interactions should be limited as much as possible. It’s best for grandparents and family members to visit virtually during this time.
 
For more support, check out boober’s COVID-19 resources and virtual doula services, or email Jada at   " style="color: purple;">
  . Here is a link to boober’s upcoming virtual classes. 
 
Jaqueline Worth, MD, Physician and Author @Village Obstetrics and Village Maternity, graduated from The Brearley School, Bryn Mawr College, and Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. She has been an obstetrician for nearly twenty years, and has delivered thousands of babies. Her practice, Village Obstetrics, is dedicated to working with women to achieve a safe birth that meets their individual needs. She is also a co-founder of and co-physician at Village Maternity, a collaborative physician-midwife practice in downtown Manhattan and soon, Park Slope. She is the proud mother of two young women, lives in New York City, and spends much of her time delivering babies and witnessing the miracle of life at Mount Sinai Hospital. She is the co-author, along with Adrienne L. Simone, MD, and Danielle Claro, of The New Rules of Pregnancy, available on Amazon. The book is the 2019 National Parenting Product Award Winner.
 
Julie G. Capiola, MD, IBCLC, Pediatrician and Lactation Consultant @Premier Pediatrics and The First Month, completed her residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital, where she was awarded the prestigious Morris Krosnick, M.D. award. This award is given annually to the senior resident who best exemplifies the qualities of caring, compassion, dedication, and the pediatrician whom you would most like to take care of your own children. She has been in practice for 12 years is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
 
Jada Shapiro is the founder of boober, where parents find expert in-person doulas, lactation consultants, and other maternal care providers. She also founded Birth Day Presence, NYC's top childbirth education and doula training center. A doula, childbirth educator, lactation counselor, mother and step-mother, she has assisted hundreds of births, taught thousands of families about childbirth, consulted about birth and lactation on major motion pictures, and regularly offers her expertise to media outlets like the New York Times and Today.
 
 
 


Delivery and Infancy during COVID-19: Expert Tips

Details
Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
 
The current coronavirus crisis is a constantly moving target, with information and official guidance seeming to shift by the hour. Now more than ever, expectant New Yorkers are in need of reliable advice on how best to promote safety and health during the delivery process and the immediate days after. We hope these questions and answers from Jaqueline Worth, MD, and Julie G. Capiola, MD, IBCLC—sourced from a recent webinar hosted by boober founder Jada Shapiro—will be a source of reassurance during these uncertain times.
 
 
Please note: Information is changing daily regarding hospitals and policies. Please check with your birthing hospital and pediatrician for the most up to date information.
 
 
PRE-DELIVERY
 
Q: How should I handle prenatal physician visits? Are they still happening in person?
A: Dr. Worth recommends limiting nonessential visits, and is offering telemedicine for any patients who don’t feel safe coming to the office. She is providing urine dipsticks for patients and recommending that they have a blood pressure cuff and other instruments on hand to check their vitals. One thing that’s not possible remotely is checking the fetal heart rate, so Dr. Worth is advising patients to track fetal movement and using the results as a surrogate for healthy fetal status.
 
Q: Looking toward a potential shortage of hospital beds, should I consider being induced or scheduling a c-section?
A: It’s a reasonable question—should I just get it over with before things get worse? In making this decision, consider that induction does almost always expose a patient to a longer time in labor in the hospital (20+ hours), while a c-section is the fastest way to give birth but does expose a patient to a longer recovery time in the hospital.
 
Q: Am I more susceptible to coronavirus because I’m pregnant?
A: There’s no evidence that expectant parents are more susceptible to the virus or that it can be passed to the baby while pregnant.
 
Q: If I’m currently trying to get pregnant, should I stop?
A: It’s a good idea to delay a few weeks—just a brief pause—and then reassess.
 
DURING DELIVERY
 
Q: Are non-birthing partners being allowed into the delivery room?
A: This isn’t currently true at Dr. Worth’s hospital, but some hospitals are restricting who is allowed into the delivery room to guard against the spread of COVID-19. We have to accept this fact in the context of a public health emergency, and trust that the experts are doing what is necessary to protect us. Protocol is updated day to day, so check with your hospital.
 
Q: What are the options for virtual support during childbirth?
A: People may not realize that there’s such a thing as virtual doula care, but there certainly is, and boober is currently advising all clients to adopt it. Remember that, at this point, the guidance is to avoid other people completely. Having your doula in the delivery room via FaceTime, or even just being able to call them on the phone, can be a huge help.
 
Q: Regarding staffing and specifically the presence of nonessential staff in the delivery room, how are hospitals implementing safety protocols?
A: Dr. Worth reports that hospitals are trying to minimize the number of people in the room, both to keep parents safe and to reduce the risk for staff. If a birthing parent is COVID-positive, there would be an extra deep-cleaning protocol for the room.
 
POST-DELIVERY
 
Q: During and after delivery, will I have to be moved into a different hospital or otherwise adapt to a diminished number of rooms?
A: Dr. Worth has not heard anything about this possibility. There seems to be an effort to find additional spaces for coronavirus patients (e.g., Governor Cuomo has called for the Javits Center to be used as a field hospital) so that those in the hospital for reasons other than COVID-19 do not have to be displaced.
 
Q: We’ve heard it’s best to limit the time spent in the hospital. Are you discharging birthing parents earlier than usual?
A: Dr. Worth is trying to send people home a day early: one day post-birth for vaginal births, and two days post-birth for c-sections.
 
Q: What testing needs to be done on the baby, and how does early discharge affect testing plans?
A: If the baby is medically clear and needs to be discharged prior to 24 hours of life, then they still need to receive the New York State Newborn Screen and a congenital heart disease test in a timely fashion. Check with your doctor to see if they can receive these tests in your pediatrician’s office rather than in the hospital post-birth.
 
Q: Are hospitals reducing the number of shared recovery rooms to mitigate COVID-19 spread?
A: Dr. Worth has not heard anything about this possibility, but her hospital is having all babies rooming in.
 
Q: Will I have to be separated from my baby if I test positive for COVID-19?
A: The Royal College of London is not currently recommending separation. COVID-19 is not present in the breastmilk, so transmission would be through respiratory droplets. If the birthing parent tests positive, options would include breastfeeding with increased hygiene precautions (handwashing, mask) and pumping milk to be fed to the baby by a healthy individual. Regardless, parents should continue breastfeeding even if they test positive. The antibodies in the breastmilk will help protect the baby.
 
INFANCY
 
Q: How concerned should I be about newborns catching COVID-19?
A: In general, babies and children under 20 years have fared well with the virus. That said, a recent study showed a higher incidence of severe and complicated cases in the under one year population. However, some of the cases in that study were only presumed COVID-19; the babies might not even have had it, or they might have had it in addition to other respiratory problems affecting that age group, such as RSV. Bottom line: Play it safe and keep your under-one-year-old extra protected.
 
Q: What do I do if I think my newborn might be sick?
A: If a baby is under four weeks of age and has a fever, they must go to the hospital. That has always been true, regardless of COVID-19. Similarly, issues such as poor feeding, lethargy, and jaundice call for immediate care. To qualify as having a fever, a baby’s temperature must be 100.4°F or 38°C. Please use a rectal temperature for babies under two months of age in order to ensure the most accurate reading.
 
Q: Is it safe to use ibuprofen to treat COVID-19 symptoms?
A: At this time, the WHO has retracted their earlier statement that described increased risks associated with using ibuprofen to treat COVID-19. Dr. Capiola reminds you that the fever itself is not the problem (unless your baby is under eight weeks); rather, the fever is part of our body’s natural response to fighting an infection. If ibuprofen helps to make your feverish child more comfortable, then use it, but don’t feel like it’s crucial to bring that number down.
 
Q: Should I bring my infant in for their regularly scheduled early doctor’s visits?
A: The American Academy of Pediatrics stated this week that children up to four years old need to continue with their regularly scheduled early well visits, and especially their vaccinations. (The last thing we need is a pertussis epidemic on top of a COVID-19 pandemic). Older kids’ check-ups can be more optional or conducted via telemedicine.
 
Q: Can healthy, asymptomatic grandparents and family members visit my newborn?
A: At this point, the official recommendation is that people over 70 should not leave the home, and nonessential social interactions should be limited as much as possible. It’s best for grandparents and family members to visit virtually during this time.
 
For more support, check out boober’s COVID-19 resources and virtual doula services. Here is a link to boober’s upcoming virtual classes. Please email Jada if you need help now: 
  
 
Jaqueline Worth, MD, Physician and Author @Village Obstetrics and Village Maternity, graduated from The Brearley School, Bryn Mawr College, and Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. She has been an obstetrician for nearly twenty years, and has delivered thousands of babies. Her practice, Village Obstetrics, is dedicated to working with women to achieve a safe birth that meets their individual needs. She is also a co-founder of and co-physician at Village Maternity, a collaborative physician-midwife practice in downtown Manhattan and soon, Park Slope. She is the proud mother of two young women, lives in New York City, and spends much of her time delivering babies and witnessing the miracle of life at Mount Sinai Hospital. She is the co-author, along with Adrienne L. Simone, MD, and Danielle Claro, of The New Rules of Pregnancy, available on Amazon. The book is the 2019 National Parenting Product Award Winner.
 
Julie G. Capiola, MD, IBCLC, Pediatrician and Lactation Consultant @Premier Pediatrics and The First Month, completed her residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital, where she was awarded the prestigious Morris Krosnick, M.D. award. This award is given annually to the senior resident who best exemplifies the qualities of caring, compassion, dedication, and the pediatrician whom you would most like to take care of your own children. She has been in practice for 12 years is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
 
Jada Shapiro is the founder of boober, where parents find expert in-person doulas, lactation consultants, and other maternal care providers. She also founded Birth Day Presence, NYC's top childbirth education and doula training center. A doula, childbirth educator, lactation counselor, mother and step-mother, she has assisted hundreds of births, taught thousands of families about childbirth, consulted about birth and lactation on major motion pictures, and regularly offers her expertise to media outlets like the New York Times and Today.
 
 
 


Coronavirus Update March 23, 2020

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Category: Newsflash 
A PSP Update…
 
As we take a “pause” from life as we know it (per Gov. Cuomo) I just wanted to give some updates and thoughts about how to cope, how to help, and how to continue to smile (maybe?) in the face of all this uncertainty.
 
You are not alone in being anxious, disappointed, fearful, frustrated, and uncertain.  When I say “we’ll get through this,” in my messages it’s not to say that it won’t suck, that we won’t grieve over things like prom, high school graduation, dance recitals, and birthday parties, or that we won’t have to make sacrifices that we never thought we would have to make.  Together, though, we can support each other, be excellent to each other, and find ways to thrive in the face of adversity. 
 
 


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Scheduling Your Teen Through COVID-19: Suggestions from our Parents. 

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Category: Newsflash, Tween Advice from Parents, Parents of Tweens 
 
Uh oh. You and your teen are cooped up in your apartment. You can’t send them outside, or to school, or even to the movies. Many of us have decided to try to make a schedule (example below). Here’s some scheduling tips to keep your teen occupied-- if you can convince them to keep a schedule, that is! 
 
 


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Helping our Healthcare Workers

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Category: Newsflash
Our healthcare workers are the best! They’re superheroes. They risk their own health to keep us all safe. And although not everyone has the skills to do what they do, everyone has the means to support them, whether that be by making masks, donating to medical institutions, or writing cards of thanks. Here are ways we can all help. 
 
 


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Remote Learning Strategies for Parents

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Category: Newsflash, Education AdviceA week of remote learning has come and gone, leaving a city full of exhausted parents and restless kids in its wake. Homeschooling is a daunting prospect at any time, and especially when you’ve got about 100,000 other things on your mind—from quarantine concerns to caring for sick loved ones to managing your own work-from-home schedule or coping with sudden unemployment. We hope these top tips from Katharine Hill, M.S., M.A.T., will offer some solace as you head into Remote Learning Week Two.
 


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Employee Rights in the Time of COVID-19

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Category: Newsflash
Park Slope Parents hosted Employee Rights in the Time of Covid 19 with Elizabeth Saylor of Better Balance, Estee Ward of Make the Road, and Kathie Carrol from the New York Commission on Human Rights. They answered questions of employee rights, Paid Family Leave, and Paid Sick Leave.  They also provided the list of materials below. A recording of their webinar is available here. 
 
 


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FAQ for Employers of Domestic Workers during COVID-19

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Category: NewsflashPark Slope Parents hosted a webinar on April 1st, 2020, to talk through your responsibilities as an employer during the era of coronavirus. When it comes to handling your responsibilities toward your domestic workers, the legal ins and outs can be daunting, but PSP is here to walk you through some key concerns and offer resources to support your nannies and house cleaners during this uncertain time.
 
WE ARE HAVING ANOTHER WEBINAR THIS SUNDAY!
The Nuts and Bolts of Paying Your Nanny in the time of Coronavirus with HomeWork Solutions
Sunday, April 5th, 8 pm
Click here to register in advance!
Join Jay Schulze from HomeWork Solutions for a webinar on the Nuts and Bolts of paying your nanny. This webinar will spell out EXACTLY what needs to be done in terms of applying for CARES, FFRCA, retroactively paying on the books (and the pros and cons), and whether you should help your nanny file unemployment or pay them and get tax credits to help offset costs. We will also have a Q & A after he presents the most up-to-date information on Nanny Pay so register early so we can get your question in the queue.
 
----
 
Please note that this is a list of resources to help guide you, but every case is different, and the regulations are changing all the time. You’ll need to contact your accountant, payroll company, lawyer, and small business resources to get answers specific to your situation.
 


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The Nuts and Bolts of Paying Your Nanny in the time of Coronavirus

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Category: NewsflashOn Sunday, April 5, Jay Schulze of HomeWork Solutions joined us for a webinar on the nuts and bolts of nanny pay during the coronavirus crisis, including CARES, FFRCA, retroactively paying on the books, and more. We also had a webinar on April 1st, 2020 and notes from that event are listed here and focus more on the nanny/employer relationship.
Please note that this content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or financial advice. Every case is different, the regulations are changing all the time, and the consequences of each choice are complex. You’ll need to contact your accountant, payroll company, lawyer, and small business resources to get answers specific to your situation.
 Also note: If you are not paying your nanny on the books, you and your nanny are missing out on tax credits (if you continue to pay your nanny), or unemployment for your nanny. Park Slope Parents recommends you retroactively pay your nanny on the books so that you can 1) be in compliance with the law and 2) take advantage of financial resources which will help you and your nanny through this difficult time. Since it can be tricky to get things set up, we advise that you reach out to a nanny payroll service (such as HomeWorkSolutions, though we have reviews of other payroll services on the PSP website). 
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Top Tips for a Memorable Birthday in the Time of Coronavirus

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Category: Newsflash, Party AdviceThis article is now a full, downloadable GUIDE available to Park Slope Parents members!
Click HERE for the resource; and if you're not yet a member, click HERE to join us and get access to all of our comprehensive guides, including Daycare, Preschool, Kindergarten, the Nanny Agreement, and more!
Image source
 
 


[Special] An Update from PSP Headquarters

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Category: NewsflashHey All,

As we settle into our temporary normal, I wanted to take a time to check in, say “hi,” and give an update from PSP Headquarters. Many of the projected models have been saying that today or tomorrow we may reach the apex in the number of deaths due to COVID-19 here in NYC. Cuomo is hopeful that we are flattening the curve. At the same time we must remember that we need to stay vigilant; things may come in waves and this may be one battle of many. Here come some highlights of life in NYC and ramblings from my heart. (It turned out to be a lot of ramblings!)
 


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Book Recs for All Ages from the PSP Community

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Category: Newsflash, Book & Movie Lists For Kids, Tweens and TeensSocial distancing is still in full force, and the world is a bit of a scary place right now—meaning that it's a perfect time for kids to escape into an alternate timeline and wile away the hours with a good book. We’re collecting recommendations from PSP members on books for various age groups, so here are some time-tested titles to expand your little ones’ minds, cure boredom, and nurture a lifelong love of reading.
 


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Do you have a Family Plan for COVID-19?

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Category: NewsflashHey All, 
I’ve begun hearing from more of my friends, and friends of friends that folks are fighting COVID-19. I’ve heard that some people have fought and are coming out the other side, doing well, and not infecting other family members which is very reassuring. 
This seems like a good time to send a message about making a FAMILY PLAN.  While the overwhelming majority of families with young kids will be okay, we all do need to plan. You may never need this information at all, but having a plan in place should help you feel better prepared so you can sleep better.
 


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THE BIG LIST OF SOCIAL CONNECTION RESOURCES

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Category: Newsflash, Health and Healing Splash, Advice - Activities 
It might feel tough to keep connected when you’re at home. You might not know what to do with yourself, or feel lost. Maybe we can turn those feelings into something better, a day of reflection, home activities, or a call to (virtual) action! We’re currently compiling a list of resources for these times of social isolation connection. We’re talking virtual sing-a-longs, crafts, health resources, breathing videos, yoga classes, as well as links to lists compiled by others. 
Below are five of our favorite online activities. For more info, find our MASTER LIST here, and don’t forget to email   ">
   if you have suggestions about helpful videos, upcoming virtual events, volunteer opportunities, etc.  
 
WE LOVE YOU BROOKLYN! 
 
 
Master List of Social Connection Resources 
Master list of educational resources, from Member Christie Megill
Master list of online concerts, music lessons, and sing-a-longs
How to help our healthcare workers! 
 


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Relationship Tips for Maintaining Harmony During COVID-19

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Category: NewsflashWhat a strange new world we are living in when a Google search for “love in the time of coronavirus” returns over one million results! Scroll through, and you’ll find endless tales of love during COVID, whether budding (see: the couple who went on a virtual date via their respective rooftops) or breaking apart (divorces in China spiked following the end of the lockdown). Most relationships, however, fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum, and if you’re simultaneously feeling grateful for your partner’s company and also ready to jet off on a month-long solo vacation after all of this is over, you are not alone. The stress of self-isolation together, combined with heightened financial concerns, health worries, and general distress over the state of the world, can be a recipe for tension. We hope these tips will support the health of your relationship during the pandemic—and maybe even help you come out the other side with a stronger bond than before.
 


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Homeschooling during Coronavirus: Top Tips for Staying Sane

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Category: Newsflash, Education Advice ( The Process)“Been homeschooling a 6-year old and 8-year old for one hour and 11 minutes,” Shonda Rhimes wrote on Twitter at the start of quarantine. “Teachers deserve to make a billion dollars a year. Or a week.” And that was on March 16—now more than a month in the past, although to many parents struggling to adapt to the demands of remote learning, it feels, much, MUCH longer. We hope these tips and words of advice sourced from the PSP community will help you maintain your sanity, or at the very least, feel a little less alone during these baffling times.
 


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Local resources for all your quarantine photoshoot needs

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Category: Newsflash
Hey All,
The Front Steps Project has raised $500,000 for lots of wonderful projects. Not everyone has a front porch, however, but there are some creative (yet safe) ways to get photos taken even without a porch. Here’s a photo of my family taken by Shrutti (https://www.thebabyphotographer.net/the-front-step-project).
If you’re in South Slope, you can find our big rainbow if you are on 7th Ave and 12th Street and look up 12th Street toward the park on the right.
Check with photographers, as many are doing these photo sessions for free in exchange for your donation to a great charity like a food bank!
Vanessa Ryan: Facebook
Vanessa McDonald Ryan: website / Facebook /
  
Leslie McQueen: website
Shrutti Garg: website
Adina Lerner Photography: website
Marc Goldberg: website
Sarah Lockhart: Instagram
JDZ Photography: website
Marj Kleinman: website
 
Susan Fox
Founder, Park Slope Parents
 


PSP Update: We made it through April! Let’s keep going!

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Category: NewsflashHey All,
We made it through April (and its showers), and May (and tomorrow) looks to be beautiful! Everything we’re hearing from the experts is that we’re doing the right thing by sheltering in place. With that, we’re seeing more talk of “What’s next” and “When can we….” The answer is this: for our community’s health and our family’s well-being we must stay on course and continue to pause even though we may want to get back to “normal.” Cuomo talks about having 14 consecutive days of decline in new cases before we start thinking about opening things up, and that sounds like a good plan to us.
That said, we’re ready to start having more conversations about planning for re-entry and navigating the new normal. That means conversations about daycare, summer camps, preschools, and nannies. We’ll be reminding you to vaccinate your kids, get your mammograms, and get your checkups. Stay tuned for more on that!
There are a few updates and things that have been swirling around my brain. There’s lots to tell you about, so grab a cup of tea, spa water, or fun drink and simmer on these thoughts.
 


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DIY Giant Bubbles

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Category: NewsflashIf you've been to any of our outdoor events around Brooklyn, you've probably seen our giant bubbles. Since we aren't holding in-person events these days, we're sharing our secrets for our giant bubble recipe and DIY giant bubble wands!

 
Giant Bubble Recipe
10 oz “Simply Dawn” (NOT concentrated—important!)
1 TBSP baking powder
1 1/4 tsp J Lube Powder* (this will last you years!)
3 1/2 quarts water (14 cups)            

Mix carefully; try not to make too many bubbles on top.
Note: It's best if you make it a day in advance!
 
DIY Giant Bubble Wands
Wooden dowels or sturdy fallen tree branches/sticks
String (buy cotton string)
OPTIONAL: Rubber bands (to connect string to wooden dowels)
OPTIONAL: Washer (not necessary if the string is heavy enough)
 
Cut two strings, one about twice the length of the other (e.g., 60” and 30”)
Tie strings together, leaving room at the ends to connect to dowel.
Attach the strings to the sticks.
 
NOTE:  Amazon has this telescopic bubble wand* that works dang good!  
 
Dip wand into the bubble juice, lift up, and let the wind make bubbles. Close the loop before the bubble gets so big that it pops!
We are working on a video! Stay tuned!
 
Are you a parent in Brooklyn? Join Park Slope Parents today to find community, support, and lots of bubbles!
 
 
*If you buy from our links, PSP gets a little bit back. THANKS. (Oh, and the J Lube has some crazy reviews—just giving you a heads-up!)
 


Celebrate Moms: A Virtual Concert on Saturday, May 9th, 11am - 2pm

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Category: NewsflashSuzi Shelton and Park Slope Parents have teamed up for a virtual concert to help raise money for First Responders Children's Foundation. 
"Our mission was simple. Bring multiple family performers together to create a celebration of Moms in order to spread joy, love and connection, and support an organization for families of those on the frontlines. " ~Suzi Shelton & Susan Fox, Founder, Park Slope Parents
STREAM ON FACEBOOK     STREAM ON YOUTUBE
 
The concert is a FUNDRAISER so donations are appreciated! 
Donate HERE Or Text MOMS to 76278 
Featuring (from left to right): 
Little Miss Ann - Sonia De Los Santos -Josh Lovelace - 
Tim Kubart - 123 Andrés - Red Yarn - 
Liz Joyce and A Couple of Puppets - Suzi Shelton - 
Randy Kaplan - Jon Samson - Joanie Leeds - Mils Trills - 
Kira Willey - Katie Ha Ha Ha - Vered - Brady Rymer 
The concert is free, but donations are appreciated! 
 
LISTEN TO THIS SPOTIFY PLAYLIST BEFORE THE SHOW FEATURING THE PERFORMERS OF CELEBRATE MOMS!  
 


A message from our Medical Liaison about COVID-19

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Category: NewsflashHey All,
We've received a few private emails about a "mysterious COVID-19-linked illness in children" that the media has been covering far and wide. Dr. Philippa Gordon, our Park Slope Parents Medical Liaison, and I wanted to speak to this to help alleviate some of the fears we've heard from parents. First and foremost, know that Kawasaki is a well-known, rare, and well-understood syndrome, and pediatricians are always on the lookout for it. Second, remember that much of the media focuses on attracting eyeballs to sell advertising; they want you to be emotionally moved by their articles using words like "mysterious," "threat," "scary," and "likely."
Here's a more detailed description from Dr. Gordon about what's happening from a scientific perspective:
 


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An Update from PSP Headquarters

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Category: NewsflashHey All,
I wanted to send an update and see how folks are doing. We need to pat ourselves on the back and realize that we’re in extremely uncharted waters around this pandemic and we’re making the best of it. At this point the shock and newness has worn off for most of us and we must more actively motivate ourselves to practice self-care and fight the urge to become sedentary and apathetic. Control aversion and Zoom fatigue are real but we must and will persevere. Here are some self-care ideas we are working on.
We’ve had some great Mental Health Check-ins and we are planning more. There’s a Mental Health Check in for Expectant Parents tomorrow, Thursday, May 21st.  Sign up here.  We’re also planning a mental check-in for folks who’ve recently given birth, parents of elementary aged kids, people who are dealing with aging parents, motherless mothers, and more meditations. If you are an expectant or new parent feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and with no end to the darkness, contact Seleni, The Motherhood Center, or Boober for mental health help.
We’re continuing Park Slope Parents workout sessions. Yes you could probably workout to any YouTube video, but there’s something bonding about working out in real time with other folks.  Check the Park Slope Parents Calendar for dates and times. We are seeing a small drop in attendance so maybe folks are getting outside, but please try to get some fresh air, move your body, and take breaks meditating, watching something funny, and connecting with other folks.
Focus on Some Good News, on good journalism, and continue to take breaks from the media. There are lots of folks from the media in this community and they’re right; there are un-biased, positive places where you can get your news.  Thanks to those people who are fighting the good fight and helping keep us informed (and in some cases, alive!) while not playing on our emotions!
 
 


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Resources for Renting Woes during COVID-19

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Category: Newsflash, Moving, New York LifeNobody wants to have to break their lease or be in debt to their landlord, but—especially during the coronavirus pandemic—life happens. If you’re finding yourself in a challenging situation with your apartment or small business venue due to financial constraints or an unexpected need to relocate, these resources and tips sourced from PSP members can help.
 


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House Cleaning Tips & Concerns around COVID-19

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Category: Newsflash, Safety in the HomeWhile the shelter in place has not been lifted, folks may be starting to think about having their house cleaners return. Hopefully you’ve been able to continue paying your domestic workers and have stayed in touch with them during the lockdown. As you reconnect and invite them back into your home, these tips and things to consider can help keep both your cleaner and your family safe.
 


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COVID-19 Resources

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Category: NewsflashYour one-stop shop for PSP resources and advice on life in the time of coronavirus.
 


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Expectant Parents Mental Health Check-In with The Motherhood Center

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Category: Newsflash, Mental HealthWe had a great mental health check-in recently with The Motherhood Center. Thanks to everyone who came! Here are a few takeaways that came up in the session that are possibly relevant to all of you.
For more, check out the Park Slope Parents Birthing Toolkit, which has tons of resources and words of wisdom to help you through pregnancy and delivery in the time of coronavirus—including a full section on Caring for Your Mental Health.
 


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A Message from Park Slope Parents

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Category: Newsflash
Park Slope Parents stands in solidarity with BIPOC communities in Brooklyn and all over this country. As a community we must stand up for the injustice happening around us to say “Black Lives Matter” and “we see you.” This did not start with George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, or Breonna Taylor; they are just the most recent in a long line of injustices.
To our families of color, we'd like to reaffirm our commitment to you by providing a safe and nurturing space for you. While it’s not your responsibility to educate families on Park Slope Parents, we hope that you feel comfortable pointing out when we can do better. We will work to be better allies, keep the conversations going, educate ourselves, and reflect on our own privilege.
Each and every parent in our community also has an important obligation in dismantling racism in ourselves as well as teaching our children to be anti-racist. For many of us, confronting our own implicit biases is inherently difficult; it takes self-reflection and energy that, especially right now, may feel like a monumental task. However, it is one that must be done.
 


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A Self-Care Message from PSP Headquarters

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Category: NewsflashHey All,
It’s been a few weeks since I’ve checked in with you all. My social worker brother always seems to come through when I am grappling with my feelings, so maybe you’ll get some comfort from this too (I hope so). He told me about the term crisis fatigue, which pretty accurately describes the state of the world and how we’ve all been constantly pumping cortisol for the past 3 months. As this Wired article points out:
“You might at this point feel lost or numb, and that’s perfectly natural. Psychologists call it crisis fatigue: Your body is well adapted to handle temporary stresses, but it can get overwhelmed by the constant, unrelenting pressures of this horrible year.”
All that cortisol is doing a whammy on our psyches. Unless we take the time for self-care, we will not have the energy to reach our short-term and long-term goals going forward. Here are some tips that will hopefully remind you to “put on your own mask before helping others” and give you information on how to do so.
 


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I had a baby. When can I start seeing relatives in person?

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Category: NewsflashOur hearts go out to those of you with new babies who, due to the need for social distancing, have not been able to connect with loved ones in person. As the pandemic evolves and the country looks toward reopening, however, the question of when it will be okay to meet without six feet of distance will only become less clear-cut. In making this decision, you’ll want to think through a variety of factors from all sides of the equation in order to find a solution that’s safe, appropriate, and responsible.
 


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[Special] Happy Anniversary to Park Slope Parents!

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Category: NewsflashHappy Anniversary to Park Slope Parents! 18 years old this week!
 
Wow! 18 years old. A few of you have been around from almost the beginning, and we thank you for your loyalty and support. Some have just joined, and we’re excited to welcome you to our amazing community. 
 
 


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Medical Reminders and Updates

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Category: Newsflash, Kid Related HealthAs we get ready for fall, it’s time to make sure that everyone’s health care maintenance is up to date.
 


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Dating Apps (sigh): A Discussion From Our Single/Divorced/Separated Group 

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Category: Newsflash, Separated/Divorced ParentsSo you’re looking to enter (or re-enter) the exciting world of dating! It can certainly be daunting, but just know—all of us at Park Slope Parents are rooting for you! Here is some handy advice for navigating those pesky dating apps. 
 
 


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Wisdom from our 2020–21 Birthing Experience Survey

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Category: Newsflash, Pregnancy and Childbirth, Birthing and DeliveryThe results are in from our 2020–21 Birthing Experience Survey! More than 250 Park Slope Parents members shared their honest reviews of OB GYNS, midwives, doulas, hospitals, and other support folks throughout Brooklyn and beyond, and they also passed along sage advice on pregnancy, birthing, and the post-partum period.
 
For member reviews and recommendations, view our Ob-Gyns, Birthing, Fertility and Post-Partum category; and for wisdom, read on!

 


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Four Steps You Can Take to Help Food-Insecure Families

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Category: Newsflash, DonationsWhile we’re all aware of the job losses triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, a less publicized aspect of the crisis is the skyrocketing level of food insecurity across the country. According to Feeding America, the number of people without adequate access to nutritious food is likely to grow by 17 million in 2020, including nearly seven million children. Bringing that number down starts in our local communities—so we’ve compiled a few actions you can take today to help combat food insecurity in Brooklyn, NYC, and beyond.
 
 


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❄ Winter Gear Drive 2020 ❄

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Category: NewsflashWe’ve teamed up with Park Slope Neighbors, the Park Slope Civic Council, Roots Café, and The Old Stone House to collect coats and other winter gear for the Shirley Chisholm WIN Family Housing Shelter at 4th Avenue and 15th Street. Our goal is to have coats and winter gear collected by October 24th for delivery the following week.
 


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The PSP Guide to Halloween Fun in the Time of Coronavirus

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Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special EventsEvents, socially distanced ideas, and trick-or-treating updates
 
Like all other aspects of life, spooky celebrations will look a little—or a lot—different this year. But we at Park Slope Parents are a resourceful bunch, and we’ve got some tricks up our sleeves to help you have a hair-raisingly haunting Halloween despite the circumstances. Read on...if you dare!
 
Are you a parent in Brooklyn who's not yet a Park Slope Parents member? JOIN US today to chat with fellow families about trick-or-treating best practices, share intel on the best pumpkin patches, and get advice on everything from costumes to carving to crafting. Hop on your broomstick and sign up HERE!
 
 


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Here’s What You Need to Know to Vote in NYC

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Category: Newsflash, New York LifeAccording to Brookings, a record 83 percent of voters say that it really matters who wins the election in 2020. Compare that to the 2000 election between George W. Bush and Al Gore, when just 50 percent of the voters thought that it really mattered who won. That unprecedented level of enthusiasm could translate into record-high turnout in November, but achieving that will be a collective effort on a massive scale. Come on, PSP—let’s make it happen!
 
 


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We Will Survive... An Update from PSP Headquarters

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashHey all,
I thought it was about time to send an update and some positive energy out into the cosmos and the community. It’s been a rough couple months for a lot of us, including me, and with the election tomorrow and everyone on edge about that, I thought it was extra important to send out a note of encouragement and an update on how things are going at PSP headquarters.
As the pandemic trudges on, I have to find more and more creative ways to stay motivated and energized. I don’t know about you, but most Zoom calls have lost their appeal for me, and even really rewarding work can seem less than. Winter is approaching, and the thought of hunkering down out of the cold seems like a punishment for all the hard work New Yorkers have been doing over the last few months to stay safe and keep others safe.  
Let me say that you are all my heroes. Working from home, handling remote and hybrid learning, having babies during a pandemic, pivoting on short notice, getting kids to wear masks, figuring out life in a time of such great uncertainty—you’re juggling so much. We’ll look back on this time and remember how challenging it’s been, but we’ll also look back on how we made it tenable despite the collective suck. 
 


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Birth and Beyond: Wisdom from Our New Parents

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Birthing and Delivery, Pregnancy and ChildbirthPark Slope Parents ran two Zoom sessions for expectant parents, which included new parents who had their babies in July, August, September, and October of 2020. We had someone join with a four-day-old! Here’s a summary of some of the great advice they imparted to our expectant parents from the Park Slope Parents November 2020, December 2020, January 2021, and February 2021 groups! Takeaways will also be included in the great document The PSP Birthing and Beyond Toolkit, which has a list of must-haves, best practices, things to think through around COVID, and so much more.
 
If you’re not yet part of the Park Slope Parents community, join us HERE.
 
 


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Covid Testing in Brooklyn: Where to Go and What to Know

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Advice - Health and HealingGetting tested for Covid-19 is a great way to put your mind at ease and keep those around you safe. We’ve compiled the most recent member experiences at a range of Health + Hospitals sites, urgent care centers, and medical offices around Brooklyn, plus general tips to help your testing experience go as smoothly as possible.
 
 


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How to Help this Holiday Season: Volunteer & Giving Opportunities in Brooklyn

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Volunteer Opportunities - Local Organizations, Thanksgiving in New York CityAs we head into a most unusual holiday season, we at PSP hope you’ll join us in supporting those who have been hit hardest by the pandemic and its effects on poverty,  food insecurity,  and housing insecurity. No matter your age, skillset, or availability, there’s an opportunity for you to donate some time or money to lend a hand this holiday season.
 
 
 


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The PSP Gift Guide: Tweens and Teens

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Parents of Tweens, Raising Tweens Tips, Shopping and moreTweens and teens may be notoriously difficult to shop for, but our Park Slope Parents members have them outsmarted with these savvy suggestions.
 
Read on for the recommendations—and if you’re not already a member of PSP, join our community today to connect with parents in our Tweens & Teens Group!
 
 
PSP may receive small amounts of compensation for purchases made through affiliate links in this post. We are a community-supported site, and we include these products because they've received positive reviews from our members.
 
AirPods case
Keep those pods protected with a silicone case. And if Apple isn’t your speed, pick up a pair of Jabra wireless earbuds with an ergonomic shape.
 
Artmaking books and supplies
-You Are an Artist: Assignments to Spark Creation, by Sarah Urist Green
 


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The PSP Gift Guide: 3s, 4s, and 5s

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, More from our members, General Parenting Advice, Shopping and moreThe ultimate gift guide for the 3s, 4s, and 5s in your life has arrived! From art supplies to costumes to puzzles and beyond, Park Slope Parents members have suggestions for kids of all genders, interests, and attention spans.
 
Read on for the recommendations—and if you’re not already a member of PSP, join our community today to connect with families raising young ones the same age as yours.
 
 
Shopping for someone on the younger side? We have crowdsourced Fantastic First Birthday Gift Ideas, plus member recs for Top Toddler Toys and Activities!
 
 
PSP may receive small amounts of compensation for purchases made through affiliate links in this post. We are a community-supported site, and we include these products because they've received positive reviews from our members.
 
Adventurer kit
Things to include…
-Binoculars
-Flashlight
-Journal
 


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2020 Holiday Tips Survey: The Results are IN!

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Holidays and Special Events, Gifts and Tipping, ChristmasHere are the key findings from the annual Park Slope Parents Holiday Tips Survey, in which Brooklyn residents report their upcoming end-of-year gifts to service providers, nannies, and teachers.
·         New Yorkers are being more generous this year. Three in ten are paying MORE this year than last year, with two out of three paying about the same. Only four percent say they are paying less.
·         Doorman buildings have their costs. Living in a doorman building with a super, door hosts and porter will cost you an extra $400 in tips this year.
·         Giving your housecleaner one week’s pay as a bonus is standard. Of those who report giving a bonus related to weekly pay, 89 percent give one week’s pay, while 21 percent give more than that.
·         Gifts for K-12 teachers are up. The amount people are giving to K-12 teachers is up from last year. The most frequent amount given to teachers is $50, but this year’s average increased from $45 to $60. During the pandemic, these teachers have had to pivot to new platforms and handle increased safety measures without increased pay, so a generous tip seems well-deserved!
·         Daycare and preschool teachers will also feel more love this year. While the most frequently mentioned monetary gift for both head and secondary teachers is $50, averages are up this year ($83 for head teachers, $64 for secondary). Unlike K-12, parents typically give separately rather than as a group/class gift, with two out of three (68 percent) giving an individual gift.
·         Tips to neighborhood service providers are UP from prior years. Reported tips for supers, door security, package delivery, and other neighborhood services are up from last year. Last year’s figures had dropped from the prior year. This year, three in ten report giving a token of appreciation (homemade baked goods, alcohol, crafts).
·         Folks are showing gratitude with added gifts. One in three (32 percent) are giving something more than cash (homemade cookies, treats, wine) to their service providers.
·         Almost all employers (98 percent) with nannies plan on giving a monetary bonus this year. The standard holiday bonus is a week’s pay (77% give this amount). The increase in average holiday bonus is over $200.
·         Thank everyone. A kind gesture to the people that support your family’s day-to-day life (e.g., crossing guards, hair stylists, accountants, after-school staff, tutors, and therapists) goes a long way. These folks love to feel appreciated too! We understand that there are many folks who have lost their jobs in this economy, but if you can, give; and if you can’t, a written recognition is wonderful too.   
 


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The Park Slope Parents Gratitude Jar: 2020 Edition

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashWhat a year! There are lots of things we want to leave in our rearview mirror for 2020, but there are also a lot of people in the Park Slope Parents circle who kept us going and growing. As we look ahead to what HAS to be a better 2021, we wanted to take a minute to thank our awesome community members and some of our great helpers for what they’ve given us in 2020.
PSP Members We Love! 
Mister Rogers tells us to notice the helpers, and we had those in spades this year. To start off the 2020 Gratitude Jar, we’d love to thank a few folks who went above and beyond the call of duty.
 
 
Our brand-new parents who joined our Birth Experience Zooms and helped let our expectant parents know what’s on the horizon. It took a pandemic to show us how awesome it was to have new parents—who likely wouldn’t have been able to join in person—meet up with expectant parents to share their wisdom. Your input helped develop our PSP Birthing and Beyond Toolkit. These helpful folks include: Margaret Nagarajan, Jessica Hahn, Elia Monte-Brown, Ari Autumn, Zoe Geller, Jenny de Oliveira, Alexandra Bacopoulos-Viau, Ruthie Jehu-Appiah, Bianca Fox, Shannon McLaughlin, Alex Wynne, Casey Papp, Emily Rinebold, Hila Mehr, Junette Teng, Krystal Hawes-Dressler, Erica Miller, Jill Rappaport, Susie Middleton-Leong, Elise Batscha, Kathryn Lisa, Abigail Reddel, Wesley Gross, Louise O'Neill, Madeline Clapps, Marylen Massen, Michelle Weiss, Stacy Holbrook, Gwen Radsh (go twins!), Dahlia Bouari, Heidi Kim, Ingrid Haftel, Marian Paredes, Elena Avramov, Kate Shutzengel, Leah Charlesworth, Rachel Steinberg, and SarahJean Billeiter.
 


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Talking to our kids about the events on Capitol Hill

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashWhile it’s hard to believe what happened on Capitol Hill today, the effects on our psyches are undeniable. Even though Congress has reconvened and is getting back to the work of certifying the election results, this could be a very upsetting time for our families. 
Knowing that we may be able to give you some tools to talk to your kids, I called my social worker brother—who has a lot of experience counseling families—and he helped me pull together some ways to help our kids (and ourselves) during difficult times. Below are some tips about helping kids cope with today’s situation.
 


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Wondering What Park Slope Parents Is All About?

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Membership, MembershipCheck out the We Are PSP video for a crash course on our community. All we're missing is YOU!
 
Intrigued? Learn more and get signed up HERE!
Questions? We're always here for you. Drop us a line at
  !
 


Winter in the City: Top Tips for Weathering the Storm

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Winter Fun, Safety in the SlopeNYC.Gov’s Snow Response Page (you can track the snow plows!)Ready.Gov’s Winter Weather Resources
 
 
Your Family:
Shop early and shop smart. Definitely pick up hot chocolate with mini-marshmallows, but also make sure you have easy-to-eat foods on hand in case the power goes out.
Buy some “hot hands” or other hand and feet warmers.
Keep your cell phones and other devices charged in case of a power outage. 
Check in on family members outside your home to make sure they are okay. 
Have extra water on hand just in case. (Filling up a bathtub or some big pots works.)
Get blankets, fuzzy socks and fun layers ready in case the heat goes out. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat to keep your whole body warmer. A warm neck helps too, so remember to wrap up in a scarf!
Co-sleep if the power goes out!  
Have flashlights, candles, and books on hand to read if the power goes out.
Heat up a blanket or towel in the dryer and snuggle up if you have power. Watch the flakes fall and talk about fun times in the snow. 
 


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Winter Break 2021: Staycation Style

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: NewsflashDOE mid-winter break is the 15th - 19th. With many camps on reduced capacity, we've put together some short trips for your family. Get your tickets to these places now!
 
Take a walk in Prospect Park off the beaten path (like the peninsula and Lullwater)
 
Visit a Museum:Brooklyn Children's Museum,Brooklyn Art Museum (there's a new kid-friendly art exhibit), orthe Met all have appointments available.
 
Explore art outside. Check out theBrooklyn Botanic Garden,Green-wood Cemetery,NY Botanic Garden,Queens; Socrates Sculpture Park,Storm King Art Center,The Cloisters. The winter is a great time to get out!
 
Ice Skate! There are rinks in Industry City, Prospect Park, Central Park, Brookfield Place and more.
 
Hike! Harriman State Park, Bear Mountain, Pelham Bay Park, ore even a walk at Jacob Riis Park.
 
Take a walk around the lake at Prospect Park, build a fort, or give back and pick up trash!.
 
Drive the family to the (old) Fairway parking lot in Red Hook and watch the sun go down on Lady Liberty.
 
Sign up to help at a food pantry or mutual aid group. Camp Friendship needs helpers and drivers. If you have a P-EBT card you can still buy good and donate it.
 
Listen to an album or playlist that takes you back to a fun time.  High School Party mix, college spring break mix, or playlist of songs about becoming a parent. PSP has Spotify playlist of bearable kids’ music here. 
 
Pick back up on a hobby you used to have or start a new one with your kids.  Dust off your guitar, re-learn how to knit, or do puzzles.
 
Get out of the house once a day, even if it’s for a deep breath on your doorstep.
 
Sprout seeds or start a potato.  Get yourself an egg carton and start some seeds. Or put a sweet potato, carrot, celery in water.
 
Write an old fashion letter or card.  Water color some pretty paper as a card and write a note to someone you love reminding them of how they are special.
 Take a walk in Green-wood Cemetery
 
Sleep more (and snuggle while you do).  Take naps with your kids, snuggle while reading or watching movies.
Take one of the Park Slope Parents virtual community exercise classes
Have show and tell with photos they’ve taken over the past week or photos from when they were little kids. 
 
Check in on friends.  Push your kids to make a real connection (facetime counts, but more than texting or a group chat) to a friend every other day.
 
Play online games with Jackinthebox is a way to play games with other folks. 
 
Listen to audiobooks or podcasts while you deep clean your closet.
 
Purge things you don’t love or use and donate it here. 
 
Cook.  Go through your favorite family recipes and facetime/zoom with other family members while you cook. Take videos while you cook so you have a record for posterity.
 
Be creative. Shop at Artisans and Craftsman on 2nd between 4th and 5th  and make some fun crafts.  South Slope’s Amazing Variety (5th Ave between 14th and 15th) also has a good selection of crafts. 
 
Meditate when you wake up and again at night.  Work on energizing the breath, especially on those days when you wake up not feeling rested. At night, let all the stress go. 
 
Try birding.  The Brooklyn Bird Club meets up in Prospect Park (one coming up Sunday, February 14th). 
 
If you were hoping to go somewhere and you’re no longer going, consider watching tour videos of the places you wanted to visit.  There are even places that will give virtual synchronous tours. Here’s a tour of Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires that rivals our local Green-Wood Cemetery. 
 
Treat yourself to a home-made spa treatment. Buy fun bath and beauty products, foot soaks,  and take 15 minute breaks  during the day to break up the monotony. 
 
Dance more!
 
Create a scavenger hunt with your kids. Take post it notes, start at the end (where you plant the “yay you found it” item, and then go backwards planting clues. You can do this at a museum as well. Or consider geocaching
 
 


Favorite Lunar New Year Picture Books

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Languages & Culture , Book & Movie Lists For Kids, Tweens and Teens, Holidays and Special EventsWhat’s the PSP Chinese Group talking about this week? Our parents have some recommendations for the best Lunar New Year picture books. Put in your order now to keep the festivities going!
 
Did you know that Park Slope Parents has more than a dozen bilingual and heritage groups to help you get connected to families in Brooklyn who share your cultural background? Click HERE to get connected; and if you’re not yet a member of PSP, join us HERE!
 
 


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Convincing Kids to Wear a Face Mask (and some great recommendations)

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Safety in the Slope, Child & Family SafetyFace coverings are crucial in keeping yourself and your neighbors safe, but some little ones are having trouble coming around to the idea. If your toddler or young child is finicky about face masks, these tips sourced from PSP members might do the trick!

 


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Covid Vaccination in NYC: What to Know and Where to Go

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash, Advice - Health and HealingEligible for a vaccine, but not sure where to begin? Navigating the appointment process can be a bit of a maze, but PSP members have you covered with top tips on what websites to visit, who to call, and how to make it happen.
 
 


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Mark Your Calendar: PSP Rethinking Parenting Forum, April 8 @ 8:00pm

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Parent Category: Newsflashes
Category: Newsflash
Parenting has changed drastically over the past 50 years, from family-centered to child-focused and instinctual to expert-driven. Please join Park Slope Parents for a free forum on RETHINKING PARENTING co-sponsored by Community Bookstore on Thursday, April 8th from 8:00pm - 9:15pm.
Head HERE to sign up. 
What:    PSP Rethinking Parenting Forum 
When:   Thursday, April 8th
Time:     8:00pm - 9:15pm 
Cost:      Free
 


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Ready, set, swap! March 2nd is the PSP Member Kids Clothing Swap

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Parent Category: About Park Slope Parents
Category: Events, Newsflashes, Newsflash, News
When: Saturday, March 2nd, 2019
Time: 10:00AM - 12:30PM
Where: All Saints Church 463A 7th Street, entrance on 7th Street (the Park Slope Senior Center) 

How much and details:
$5.00/member - only payable at the door
You must be a PSP member (we will be checking at the door). Not a PSP member?Join
Renew
What to bring:
Please bring swappable kid clothing/books/gear for ages newborn-10 years. If you wouldn’t give it to your finicky in-law, don’t bring it to the swap.
Maternity items (especially work clothes)
Nursing and feeding items 
Breast pumps, bottles, baby carriers
Bouncy seats, belly bands, unused pacifiers
NO toys please
If you just want to drop stuff off, that's allowed-- anything not swapped will be donated.
Know someone who is not a member and would like to come? Tell them to sign up and become a member to start enjoying events like these and more! http://bit.ly/JOINPSP
Heads up:
PREEMIE clothes
---0 - 6 months***NEW
---6 - 12 months***NEW
---12 - 18 months
---18 - 24 months
---2 & 3 year olds
---4 & 5 year olds
---5 - 8 year olds
---8-10 year olds
***NEW Please presort MATERNITY clothes as well. We're going to have a more organized section for those clothes!
---Maternity S
---Maternity M
---Maternity L
Can't come and want to donate? DROP OFF DONATIONS to us at one of two drop off points Monday– Friday (please no large items), 9am - 9pm
NORTH Slope Drop off:
190 Garfield Place (between 6th & 7th), apt 5E (please text Jeff at 917-685-8250 to double check availability)
SOUTH Slope Drop off
438 12th Street (between 7th and 8th) doorman there between 9am – 9pm.
NIGHT BEFORE Drop Off can also drop off from 6pm - 8pm on Friday Night. You can drop off, pay your $5, and skip the line if you prefer. 463A 7th Street, entrance on 7th Street (the Park Slope Center for Successful Aging)
 
Frequently Asked Questions:
 


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Ready, set, swap! October 5th is the PSP Member Kids Clothing & Gear and Maternity Swap

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Parent Category: About Park Slope Parents
Category: Events, Newsflashes, Newsflash, News
The PSP Members Only Clothing, Gear, and Maternity Swap 
When: Saturday, October 5th, 2019
Time: 10:00am - 12:30pm
     Last entry at 12:10pm
Early drop off from 9:15 to 9:45am
Where: All Saints Church 463A 7th Street, entrance on 7th Street (the Park Slope Center for Successful Aging)
Price and details:
$5.00/member - payable at the door
You must be a Park Slope Parents member with a valid Membership Card. Download/Print your membership card. Step by Step Instructions here: http://bit.ly/MembershipCard_DL
 
Not a PSP member?Join
Renew
 
What to bring:
Please bring swappable kid clothing/books/gear for ages newborn-10 years. If you wouldn’t give it to your finicky in-law, don’t bring it to the swap.
Maternity items (especially work clothes)
Nursing and feeding items 
Breast pumps, bottles, baby carriers
Bouncy seats, belly bands, unused pacifiers
NO toys please
If you just want to drop stuff off, that's allowed-- anything not swapped will be donated.
 
DROP OFF ITEMS BEFORE THE SWAP! 
NORTH Slope: Wednesday, 9/25 through Wednesday, October 2nd
190 Garfield Place (between 6th & 7th), apt 5E (please text Jeff at 917-685-8250 to double check availability)
SOUTH Slope  Wednesday, 9/25 through Wednesday, October 2nd. 
 438 12th Street (between 7th and 8th) doorman there between 9am – 9pm.
WINDSOR TERRACE  - ***available Saturday Sept 28 - Monday Sept 30***
 1 Prospect Park SW, apt 2A (please text MC at 407-864-2225 to double-check availability)
DROP OFF THE NIGHT BEFORE THE SWAP
 Pre-Swap, Night Before Drop Off 6pm- 8pm FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4th ONLY
 463A 7th Street, entrance on 7th Street (the Park Slope Center for Successful Aging)
 Drop off or donate-- (you can also pay your $5 and skip the line on Saturday).

PLEASE PRE-SORT... Mark with sharpie on the bag the size of the clothes. Makes it super easy to run the items to the appropriate tables.  You'll be able to toss bags in separate bins when you come into the swap!
Preemie clothes
0 - 6 months***NEW
6 - 12 months***NEW
12 - 18 months
18 - 24 months
2 & 3 year olds
4 & 5 year olds
5 - 8 year olds
8-10 year olds
***ALSO Please presort MATERNITY clothes as well. We're going to have a more organized section for those clothes!
Maternity S
Maternity M
Maternity L
We've been helping the planet and our fellow swappers since 2005!  

Frequently Asked Questions:
 


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Type of Teacher	Average Tip/Gift	Mode
Preschool/Daycare Head Teacher	$65	$50
Preschool/Daycare Secondary Teacher	$51	$50
K-12 Teacher*	$45	$50
Special Services Teacher	$33	$25
Afterschool Service Providers	$33	$20

Nanny Situation	Average Amount 2019	Average Amount 2018	Average Amount 2017	Average Amount 2016	Average Amount 2015	Average Amount 2014
Full time (over 40 hours/week)	$1043	$1083	$1032	$969	$832	$1005
Part-time (16-40 hours)	$605	$530	$551	$540	$487	$597
Part-time (up to 15 hours)	$210	$198	$215	$284	$241	$167
OVERALL Average for Nanny	$688	$765	$762	$760	$724*	$623

Newsflash

PSP Events for this week: Highlights from March 11th-16th!

Dyker Park Tree Lighting

Tree Lighting @ Shore Road Park Gazebo

Tree Lighting at Investor's Bank-- Dyker Heights Branch

Osborn Plaza Tree Lighting

PSP Members We Love!

NYC.Gov’s Snow Response Page (you can track the snow plows!)

PSP Announcements