Staten Island Parent March 2020 by Staten Island Parent

March 2020

siparent.com

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

“My Child Watched Inappropriate Videos”

Questions to Ask a Camp Director

+ 2020 CAMP

>>Finding my

MOM CREW

& SUMMER PROGRAM DIRECTORY

SUNDAY

MARCH

THE COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND

29 FREE

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SIPARENT.COM/SIPD Music, Face Painting, Reptile Show & More!

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INSIDE MARCH 2020

Jackson Summa, 4 years old

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht EDITOR Jeannine Cintron PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michelle Yannaco TRAFFIC DIRECTOR Heather Gambaro ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen, Janine Mulé Jodi Fatto INFORMATION Advertising: 718.494.1932 Questions: info@siparent.com KEEP IN TOUCH

10 Questions to Ask a Camp Director

What to ask when choosing a summer camp for your child.

ILPM siparent.com facebook.com/siparent instagram.com/statenisland_parent twitter.com/siparent pinterest.com/siparent

Finding My Mom Crew

Motherhood shows you who your friends really are.

I Found My Child Watching Porn

When inappropriate content falls into the wrong hands.

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2020 Camp and Summer Program Directory Choosing a Sports League Talking to Kids About Vaping STEM Activities for All Ages Dear Teacher: Real Advice from Real Educators Professional Services Guide 10 Ways to Make Mornings Easier Tips for a Successful Pet Adoption

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30 St. Patrick’s Day Recipe Ideas 48 Birthday Club

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Staten Island Parent is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The publisher of this magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or writers.

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raising kids

any parents select a camp based on a friend or

BY JESS MICHAELS

Jess Michaels is the director of communications for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. She believes every child should have a summer camp experience.

relative’s rave reviews. But choosing your child’s summer experience based on hearsay or person-

al anecdotes is often problematic, according to the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. Instead, it’s important to thoroughly research a camp in order to determine if it’s a good fit for your kid. The ACA suggests making an appointment with the camp’s director and asking the following 10 questions.

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LIPM What is the camp’s mission or philosophy?

Each camp has its own mission or philosophy. Make sure this particular camp’s mission matches your own family’s values.

What is your background and experience?

Ask about the camp director—his experience, years at the camp, previous jobs. You want to make sure you find a commonality here. When you send your child to camp, you are forming a partnership with the director to ensure your child has a successful camp experience.

There are hundreds of day camps and sleepaway camps in the New York area, which can make determining the just-right spot for your child overwhelming. Here’s advice from camp directors on how to create the perfect summer for your kid:

What type of child is successful at the camp?

Consult with your child (it’s her summer after all!) but also consider what you want her to gain, whether that’s swimming, making friends, or STEM skills.

Does it sound like she is describing your child? If not, this isn’t the camp for you.

Can you describe the program?

Find out if the program is structured (has a set schedule) or elective (children choose their activities). Also inquire about how the program changes for older kids. For example: Do the elective choices increase with age?

What are the camp’s safety procedures? It’s important to know about emergency action plans, water safety, medical staff, and camper-tostaff ratios.

Who is the staff?

Ask about the ages and backgrounds of staff members. Find out how they were hired and what kind of training and background checks they went through.

Are you able to accommodate my child’s special needs?

If your child has any special considerations, such as she has food allergies, has ADHD, or is wheelchair-bound, be completely upfront about her needs and make sure the camp is able to accommodate them.

What makes your camp unique?

After pouring over websites and marketing materials, parents often start to feel like all camps look alike. Find out what makes this camp stand out from the others.

How are conflicts handled?

While camps work hard to build a caring community, fights among campers can occur. Ask the camp director how the camp handles these types of conflicts.

May I speak with references?

Ask if you can call parents of campers currently enrolled at the camp, especially ones with kids who are the same ages as your children. They will be your next valuable source of information.

Know What You—and Your Child—Want

Look into the Camp’s Accreditation and Safety

It’s important that prospective camps are accredited by the American Camp Association—it’s a sign of approval that isn’t easy to achieve. Keep Your Budget in Mind

Look at the total all-in cost for each camp—including transportation, clothing, gear, etc. Then take all the camps that are over-budget off your list.

Don’t Forget Day-to-Day Logistics

About

Think about the location of pickup and drop-off. And, ask about whether the camp has flexibility if you want to take a family vacation.

Do Your Research

Browse through websites—and involve your child, too. Same goes for when you visit camp fairs. As you research, pay attention to interactions with the staff, facilities, activities, and counselor-tocamper ratio. Call or Visit the Camps on Your Shortlist

Most directors recommend visiting your two to three finalist camps. Bring your child and make sure the camp seems clean and well-maintained. Calling the camp director is your next best option—try to dig into factors that aren’t mentioned on the website. The camp should be one your child can enjoy this summer, and for many summers to come. For help choosing a camp, visit SIPARENT.COM

2020 CAMP GUIDE ON NEXT PAGE

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camp guide

re you looking for the right summer camp on Staten Island for your child? S.I. Parent has the ultimate resource for discovering the best summer camp programs for your family. Read our listings for camps including STEM camps, day camps, music camps, dance camps, sports camps and more. Find the right camp program for your family today.

ART LAB

1000 Richmond Terrace • Bldg H • 10301 718-447-8667 info@artlabsi.org artlabsi.com facebook.com/artlabsi instagram.com/artlabsi Children will enjoy hands-on activities in drawing, painting, and sculpture. Various techniques of fine and applied arts are explored as children create exciting, take-home art projects! Half and full days available all summer long.

CHILDREN’S AIDGOODHUE CENTER WILLIAM OSBORN DAY CAMP

304 Prospect Avenue • 10301 718-447-2630 katiel@childrensaidnyc.org childrensaidnyc.org The Children’s Aid Goodhue Center helps children feel safe and cared for by providing planned and structured afterschool, summer camp, and enrichment programs in a well-equipped, comfortable, & stable environment.

CHILDREN’S HARBOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL

1000 Richmond Terrace • Bldg G • 3rd Fl 718.442.6112 childharborms@aol.com www.childrensharbormontessori.com Enriching, stimulating and creative experience for children ages 2-5. Located on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. Program includes cooking, painting, fine arts, crafts, music exploration, movement and dance, and yoga. Educational programs include nature walks, museum visits and lessons in Horticulture and Spanish. Children enjoy games, exercise and free play activities in our large private playground. Early morning drop off starting at 7:30am. Sibling discount. July 6-August 14. Activities are within Snug Harbor Grounds.

FUN STATION DAY CAMP

3555 Victory Boulevard • 10314 718-569-5426 funstationdaycamp@yahoo.com funstationdaycamp.com facebook.com/FunStationDayCamp FSDC offers both local and travel camp packages starting at as low as $30 per day. Free lunch, free door-to-door transportation, free extended hours. Come join Staten Island’s fastest growing camp! We offer friend/sibling & NYC employee discounts.

NYCID SUMMER DAY CAMP

PS 861, 280 Regis Drive • 10314 929-314-6049 msalem@nycid.org • nycid.org facebook.com/nycid twitter.com/nycid Daily trips to the sprinklers, sports leagues, enrichment specialists, free breakfast and lunch, your child will have an unforgettable summer in a safe and healthy environment.

POUCH DAY CAMP

1465 Manor Road • 10314 212-651-3086 elise.rooker@scouting.org camppouch.org/daycamp facebook.com/pouchscoutcamp instagram.com/camppouch We invite youth entering 1-7 grade to enjoy programs like: archery, arts & crafts, rock climbing, fishing, row boating, swimming, hiking, sports and more. Signup early and save!

RICHMOND COUNTY YACHT CLUB 142 Mansion Avenue • 10308 718-356-4120 sailing@rcyachtclub.org rcyachtclub.org facebook.com/RCYCNY Sail with us! Summer programs for beginner to advanced levels. Ages 7-16. The goal of our staff is to ensure your children have an enjoyable and safe time on the water.

RICHMOND HILL CHILDREN’S CENTER

501 Richmond Hill Road • 10314 718-494-7422 rhcc@verizon.net rhccny.com Camp runs June 29th -August 21st. Ages 2-6. 2-8 week programs from 9am-3pm with optional extended hours. Open 7am-6pm. Weekly themes and water activities. Air-conditioned, peanut and nut free, first aid certified staff.

SMALL WORLD PRE SCHOOL

144 Bloomingdale Road • 10309 718-356-7795 kdsrmybiz@aol.com facebook.com/SWP144 Summer camp and preschool ages 2-6. June 29-July 24 and August 3-August 28. Half day & Full day. Open 6:30am-7:00pm. 20% Sibling Discount. 10% City Worker Discount. Licensed by the NYCDOHMH.

SPOTLIGHT YOUTH THEATRE

358 Forest Avenue • 10301 718-207-1128 spotlightTheatreSI@gmail.com SpotlightTheatreSI.org facebook.com/spotlightrepsi instagram.com/spotlighttheatresi Children ages 4-18 perform in fully realized musicals, directed by professional directors, musical directors & choreographers. Also offering performing arts classes in musical theatre, acting, improv & audition prep.

STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY DAY CAMP

715 Todt Hill Road • 10304 718-303-7845 cbruno@statenislandacademy.org statenislandacademy.org/summer facebook.com/ StatenIslandAcademyDayCamp twitter.com/SIA_Summer_Camp Staten Island Academy Summer Day Camp is for kids ages 3-14, Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm. We offer flexible schedules, extended hours, academic enrichment, trips, events, and hot lunch! Join us for 5 day weeks or choose a schedule that fits your busy life. We are here to provide the safe, secure campus you expect for your family.

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LIPM STATEN ISLAND SKATING PAVILION

STATEN ISLAND COMMUNITY TENNIS CAMP

2800 Victory Blvd • 10314 718-982-3355 sitenniscenter@gmail.com statenislandtennis.com Experienced instructors teach & supervise your child in air-conditioned indoor courts and outdoor courts. Campers have the option to swim each day. Licensed by the NYC Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene.

STATEN ISLAND DAY CAMP 2800 Victory Blvd • 10314

Located on the grounds of The College of Staten Island

800-301-2267 sidaycamp@aol.com statenislanddaycamp.com facebook.com/statenislanddaycamp instagram.com/staten_island_day_camp Staten Island Day Camp is based at CSI so travel is not required. Everything comes to our air-conditioned site with outside ball fields allowing for a healthy and safe experience.

STATEN ISLAND JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER DAY CAMP

1301 Manor Road • 10314 Sept-Jun 718.475.5231 July-Aug 718.983.9000 gwechsler@sijcc.com camp.sijcc.org facebook.com/StatenIslandJCCDayCamp instagram.com/sijcc_camp Explore nature at a picturesque 100acre campsite! Camp programs include sports, aquatics, performing arts, music, coding, woodworking, STEM, archery, boating, trips, and more. Accredited by the American Camping Association. Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs and inclusion opportunities available.

3080 Arthur Kill Road • 10309 718-948-4800 Sarah Tirro sarahtirro@thepavilion.org statenislandskatingpavilion.com facebook.com/statenislandskatingpavilion instagram.com/skatingpavilion We offer learn to skate, hockey & figure skating camps for skaters ages 3 to high school. Learn to Skate & Learn to Play Hockey Camp offered July 6-30 from 9-2:30pm. Campers will have an hour & a half of on-ice instruction and up to one hour of gymnastics/movement/stretch class. Our lessons will physically improve large muscle development and spatial awareness.

WAGNER COLLEGE DEPARTMENT FOR LIFELONG LEARNING One Campus Road • 10301 718-390-3221 lifelong-learning@wagner.edu wagner.edu/lifelong-learning facebook.com/wagnerlifelong instagram.com/wagnerlifelong twitter.com/wagnerlifelong With a wide variety of programs for children and teens, we are committed to providing an enriching, diverse, and nurturing environment that promotes personal, academic and social growth.

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS

South Shore YMCA Branch 3939 Richmond Ave • 10312 • 718-227-3200 bschiuma@ymcanyc.org (Camp Rainbow) shsmith@ymcanyc.org (STARS, Sports, Specialty) nbitetto@ymcanyc.org (Day Camp at Pouch & Combo) mgreenfield@ymcanyc.org (Swim Camp) ymcanyc.org/southshore facebook.com/sisouthshorey instagram.com/sisouthshorey twitter.com/SISouthShorey Broadway YMCA Branch 651 Broadway • 10310 • 718-981-4933 asicuranza@ymcanyc.org ( Early Childhood Camp) lrespicio@ymcanyc.org (Day Camp & CIT) ymcanyc.org/broadway facebook.com/SIBroadwayYMCA instagram.com/sibroadwayymca twitter.com/SIBroadwayY Campers build robots, go on field trips, shoot hoops, learn to swim, make new friends and laugh all summer long!

YOUNG PEOPLE’S DAY CAMP OF STATEN ISLAND

3441 Victory Blvd • 10314 718-701-3600 keith@ypdc.com ypdc.com/staten-island-day-camp facebook.com/YoungPeoplesDayCamp instagram.com/ypdc_si Young People’s has been the most complete day camp on Staten Island since 1972. We provide free door to door transportation along with many activities and field trips. We pride ourselves on communication with the campers and their families. Come check us out as we celebrate our 48th Anniversary!

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH AND PRESCHOOL

505 Watchogue Rd • 10314 718-981-3623 Facebook.com/Zion.Lutheran.Preschool. StatenIsland ZionLutheranPreschoolSI.org Twitter.com/zlcpssi Your children, ages 2-10, will experience an exciting summer adventure: Passport to the World! Using our imaginations, we will “travel” to various countries with our tour guides and have fun learning during our hands-on activities that include arts & crafts, STEM, sports, music, dance, theatre, as well as daily water activities. Before care (free of charge) and after care (reasonable rates) will be available.

Find photos and videos for these camps on siparent.com

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raising kids

Braydon Mannino

Stephen Defeo Lorenzo Hartnett

Brianna Pugliese

BY JOE LOVERDE

A local sportswriter and coach for youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years.

had a conversation recently with two young parents about their kids’ involvement in sports and how it was decided which ones their children were participating in. Both were wondering if they should suggest their child play something in addition to what they were already playing, or maybe switching to another team or sport. Most of the time this decision comes naturally. When a parent plays sports, it’s normal to want his or her child to play that same sport. Sometimes groups of parents decide together that they are going to sign up their kids for a team. And sometimes the child tells the parents they’d like to play a particular sport and the choice is simply made that way. Why should you want your child to play sports? To socialize. To get exercise. To have fun. Those should be the biggest reasons. Some side benefits include getting the chance to accomplish something and gain confidence, learning life lessons about responsibility and working together toward a common goal, as well as and how to handle success, adversity and disappointment. It should not be done for the purpose of one day having your child receive an athletic scholarship or play professionally. Although both are possible, they are highly improbable. Repeat: HIGHLY improbable. If this is your motivation, you are getting way ahead of yourself. So how do you go about registering your child for sports? And what sport should you choose? If you play a sport, take your child to your games if possible.

Let them see how much fun you’re having and talk to him or her about it afterward. Children love to imitate their parents. Play sports with your child. Kick a soccer ball in the yard. Toss around a football. Challenge them to a running race (you can give them a head start). Give them a whiffle ball bat and teach them to hit. Take them ice skating. Remember, children have short attention spans, so keep changing up the game or the activity. Keep it fun. When you find an activity your child likes, praise their successes and keep the enjoyment going. Make mini-games of the activities. Kids love games. See how long you can have a catch going between the two of you without someone dropping the ball. See who can make the most baskets. Shoot the soccer ball and try to hit a target. Heap on the encouragement. Look for opportunities for your children to invite their friends over to play these games. Make sure everyone gets a chance to take part in the activity. Once you see which activity your child favors, it could be time to sign them up to play in a league or on a team. If they ask to be on a team, it’s definitely time to select an organized sport. Leagues are registering children at younger ages than ever, and to be honest it can be a struggle to keep the very young ones’ interest over the course of a game or a practice. No matter what, keep it fun. There will be plenty of time to get serious about athletics, but in the beginning making it enjoyable matters most. It’s not called work. It’s called “play.”

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raising kids vaping, tobacco use or any kind of drug use. Don’t lecture your kids, but rather create a safe environment where you can have a conversation with them and answer their questions.

Know what to look (and smell) for.

Eight Tips for Parents to Talk to Teens About VAPING How to combat the scary epidemic affecting millions of teens and pre-teens.

VINAY SARANGA

Vinay Saranga is a child and adolescent psychiatrist of Saranga Comprehensive Psychiatry in North Carolina.

espite the dangers of vaping, it still continues to be a problem -- especially in middle and high schools across the country. What can parents do to make sure their children don’t get involved with vaping? Vinay Saranga M.D. is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and offers these eight tips: Show proof. Many times, kids are unaware of the dangers associated with vaping and see it as harmless. Use research, national stories, statistics, and whatever else you can to demonstrate to your teen the proven risk factors of vaping. Help them process and understand how dangerous vaping can be so they are well informed. Talk to your kids ahead of time. Don’t wait until you suspect your teen is vaping to talk about it. Have the conversation ahead of time before it can become an issue. Make it clear that this behavior will not be tolerated and you do not want them engaging in

As parents, we know to lookout for pipes or devices that look like cigarettes, and most of us are familiar with the smell of tobacco. Unfortunately, you also have to keep your eyes open for the unobvious. Some vaping paraphernalia looks like common items such as USB drives and pens. Vaping scents can be anything from bubble gum and cherry to fruit punch and cotton candy. Is it something bigger? For some teens, vaping isn’t something they like, but it’s a way of acting out as the result of a more significant problem. Is your child under a lot of stress lately, feeling anxious or depressed? Are they coping with a divorce or loss of a parent, a recent move to a new city, peer pressure or the victim of bullying? Always investigate to find out if there is an underlying cause. Don’t follow the crowd. Teach your children that even if their best friends, the captain of the football team or anyone else they may look up to is vaping, it’s perfectly acceptable for them to just say ‘no.’ Wanting to be part of the “in” crowd is one thing, but not when it comes to something as dangerous as this. Follow your own advice. If you want your kids to avoid vaping, you have to be a good role model. Don’t engage in vaping, tobacco or any kind of drug use. This is important for your own health but also remember your children are watching your every move. Intervene. If you believe your teen is engaging in risky behavior or habits like vaping, sometimes a professional intervention can help. This is a tough time in your child’s life that includes dramatic growth; hormone shifts; social, academic, and emotional pressures that they haven’t experienced before. Don’t be afraid to reach out and get professional help for your child. Text “DITCHJUUL” to 88709. This is a resource anyone can use to get free advice, tips and inspiration for quitting.

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raising kids develop your child’s understanding about how different objects behave on inclines.

PRESCHOOL (3-4-YEAR-OLDS)

Invite your child to observe from a safe distance as you boil 1 cup red cabbage in 2 cups water. As the water turns purplish, drain it into a clear container. After the water cools, invite your child to measure a small amount of white vinegar and stir it in while observing what happens as additional vinegar is added. Next, have your child measure a small amount of baking soda or milk and stir it in to observe even more changes. Exploration, experimentation and observation are all key STEM skills.

SIMPLE STEM

Activities To Do At Home BY KINDERCARE VIA FAMILY FEATURES For more activity ideas, visit kindercare.com

inter is the season for family gatherings, snow days and breaks from school and work, but all this time indoors can lead to a serious case of cabin fever for both children and adults. Before you face another chorus of “I’m bored,” consider these simple activities you and your child can do together when winter weather or schedules have you stuck indoors. Each activity idea from the experts at KinderCare can help children build foundational skills they’ll need for success in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) areas so you can combine fun and learning.

INFANTS

Most babies love sensory baskets, and it’s easy to make one at home. Fill a basket or low-sided container with materials in a variety of shapes, textures, weights, smells and sounds for your baby to explore. While your baby explores the materials and develops hand-eye coordination, describe what he or she is doing, seeing, feeling, hearing or tasting to help build his or her vocabulary.

TODDLERS

Show your toddler how to make ramps by stacking blocks or small cardboard boxes and placing one edge of a piece of cardboard on top. Invite your child to gather toy vehicles or balls and other objects to see how they roll. Gather objects that will roll and a few that won’t. Encourage your child to ask questions and experiment with ramps of different heights. These experiments in force and motion can help

PRE-KINDERGARTEN (4-5-YEAR-OLDS)

Gather a variety of craft items, building toys and recycled materials like construction paper, markers, pipe cleaners, craft sticks, fabric scraps, glue sticks, tape, scissors, blocks, interlocking toys, paper towel rolls, tissue boxes, cardboard, lids and plastic food containers. Place the materials you’ve gathered in a bag. Give your child the “tinker bag” and some space to build. Invite him or her to explore the materials, create something and share it with you as a way to build engineering skills and curiosity. Limiting the number of materials children have to work with can often create more opportunities for problem solving and innovation.

SCHOOL AGES

Gather a few containers from your recycle bin, such as plastic food containers, tin cans or cracker boxes. Talk with your child about how some things typically thrown away or recycled can be reused for the same purpose or a new one. When items are reused, the amount of waste that ends up in landfills is reduced. Invite your child to select one of the containers and decide on a new use for it. When your child is finished creating something new using on-hand craft materials, ask him or her to share the innovation with you. Give your child feedback in the same way engineers do by giving a compliment, asking a question or offering a suggestion.

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Important Educational Questions EDUCATORS WEIGH IN ON CURRENT TOPICS

WAYS TO JUMPSTART A WRITING ASSIGNMENT QUESTION: My son in fifth grade is not doing well on writing assignments. It’s like pulling teeth to get him started. I am willing to work with him. What should I be doing? – Helpful

Experienced educators and authors Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts give solid advice about everything school and education-related. Read more Q & A on siparent.com/dearteacher Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com

ANSWER: Your son may well be slow in starting a writing assignment because he is unsure of how to approach the task. This is an area in which you can help him. A common problem is selecting a topic when this is left up to a student. Sometimes just too many topics are appealing. You can help by having him write his top choices on cards. Then discuss together the merits of each topic and eliminate them one by one. If he can’t make a final decision, have him shuffle the remaining cards and then draw one at random. Getting the first words on paper is often a roadblock in the writing process. It can help to have your son write all his ideas on cards. Then he can lay them out on the floor and place related ideas together. You will probably have to help your son find the most important idea, which will serve as his topic sentence. Once this is selected, the other groupings

of topics can be arranged in the order they will be used. Within each grouping the ideas can be arranged in their order of importance. At this point, the paper has nearly written itself.

A TRIED AND TRUE STUDY METHOD THAT REALLY WORKS QUESTION: My son, who is the fourth grade this year, is struggling to understand his social studies and science textbooks. The poor kid tries so hard and is always willing to read his textbooks. In his reading class, he is actually reading on grade level according to his teacher I don’t know why he never seems to understand what he is reading in social studies or science. How can I help my son improve his reading comprehension in these areas? – Puzzled ANSWER: Reading problems can crop up any time, even for children who are generally good readers. The most common times are at the start of fourth grade, when they start reading content materials, and at the start of middle school or junior high, when the amount of reading greatly increases. In order for children to understand what they read they must become active readers. As your son reads, he must

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LIPM always be thinking. Here is a good way to help your son improve his comprehension of both social studies and science materials. It is called SQ4R and may even have been taught to him in school. A more detailed explanation of SQ4R can be found on our Dear Teacher website under Skill Builders - Study Skills. Because SQ4R takes time to use at first, you need to guide him through it for several weeks in both textbooks. Here are the basic steps he needs to learn: 1. Survey: Read headings and subheadings. Look at all illustrations. Read captions under illustrations. Read chapter summary. 2. Question: Write a question for each heading and subheading in an assignment. 3. Read: Read only the material under a heading or subheading to find the answer to each question. 4. Recite: Recite the answer to any step 3 question. 5. Record: Write down the answers that were recited in step 4. 6. Review: Review after all questions are answered. Recite the answers to each question. Repeat this step the next day, a few days later and before a test.

SOCIAL SKILLS NEEDED FOR KINDERGARTEN QUESTION: My only child did not go to preschool. How do I know if she has the social skills needed to start kindergarten? – Worried ANSWER: Social skills are an absolute must for success in school. While kindergarten teachers do not expect children to behave like miniature adults, they do want them to have most of the following skills. Your daughter should be able to: • Approach others positively. • Express wishes and preferences clearly. • Assert her own rights and needs appropriately: Give reasons for actions and positions. • Express frustration and anger effectively without escalating disagreement or harming others. • Gain access to ongoing groups at play and work. • Make relevant contributions to ongoing activities. • Take turns fairly easily. • Show interest in others. • Negotiate and compromise with others appropriately. • Not draw inappropriate attention to self. • Interact nonverbally (smiles, waves, nods) with other children. Parents need to be warm and loving with their children if they want them to get along with others. They also need to have certain rules of social behavior that they expect the children to follow. Do not panic if your daughter does not have all of these skills. There is still plenty of time for her to gain most of them before she goes to kindergarten. Hopefully she is having some interaction with groups of children. This can help her acquire needed skills. To speed things up, March 2020 • siparent.com

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fun stuff

St. Patrick’s Day Recipes

It’s the luckiest day of the year, so naturally your recipes will turn out amazing! If you’re feeling festive (or you’re fond of the color green), these St. Patrick’s Day recipes will leave your family feeling like they found the pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow!

Shamrock Lime Sherbet Punch

INGREDIENTS • Lemon lime-flavored 7 Up or Sprite • 1 package Lime Kool-Aid mix • 3 scoops lime sherbet • 20oz can pineapple juice • Lime wedge DIRECTIONS: 1. Make lime Kool-Aid mix according to package details. 2. Add all the juice from the can of pineapple chunks. 3. In a glass place about two scoops of lime sherbet. 4. Fill the glass 1/3 of the way full of your Kool-Aid, then fill the rest with lemon-lime soda of choice. Leave about an inch of room and add your last scoop of lime sherbet. 5. Add a straw and a wedge of lime and enjoy! Recipe courtesy of sixsistersstuff.com

Green Mac N’ Cheese

INGREDIENTS • 1 pound elbow macaroni • 3 cups milk • 1 cup spinach • 3 Tablespoons butter • 3 Tablespoons flour • 1/2 cup water • 4 cups grated white cheddar cheese • 2 cups chopped broccoli florets • 1 cup peas DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. 2. Place the milk and spinach in a blender and blend until smooth. 3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in flour for 2-3 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a boil. 4. Reduce heat to low and whisk occasionally for 3-4 minutes until mixture starts to thicken. 5. Add 1/2 cup water and cheese and whisk until melted. 6. Stir in the pasta, broccoli and peas. 7. Transfer to a 9x13-inch baking dish sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling. Recipe courtesy of todayscreativeideas.com

Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 cup butter softened (1 stick) • 1 egg • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1 small box instant vanilla pudding mix • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tsp mint extract • 3 drops blue coloring + 10-15 drops green coloring • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips • 1/2 cup Andes baking bits or crushed Andes chocolates DIRECTIONS: 1. Cream together sugar and butter. Add egg, sour cream and pudding mix. 2. In a small bowl, combine flour, salt & baking soda. Incorporate flour mixture into the pudding mixture and mix until well combined. 3. Add mint extract and food coloring until desired color is achieved. 4. Add in chocolate chips and 1/2 cup Andes baking bits 5. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 for 10 minutes. Recipe courtesy of butterwithasideofbread.com

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special event

Spon

familya day of r fo s n o ities nizati ring orga iting activ e c x tn e r a in p d te -painting, arent an participa e P c d d n fa n a e r la v e Is a th n e’ll h y toge oin State hibitors. W more. s can pla x e id l K a ! c n lo fu lots meet friendly show and e parents il le h ti p w e s r ft e a , a liv and cr ! haracters c e m KE HOME tu A s T o c O , T ic s G A mu

GOODY B E E R F A VEN GET YOU’LL E

Meet the following vendors at S.I. Parent Day! A Friendly Face Kidz Applebee’s Staten Island Arden Heights Boulevard Jewish Center Bee Line Entertainment Beezy Beez Honey Boy Scouts of America – Pouch Camp Bricks 4 Kidz - Staten Island Brooklyn Orthodontics Catholic Charities-Mount Loretto Children’s Aid ClinEdge Engage Congregation B’Nai Jeshurun CSI Child Development Studies Dave & Buster’s Dea Music Studio

The Costu Lizard Face Chara Guys Painting Elsa from & mo Reptile Show By Katrina

Dr Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) Emergency Children’s Help Organization (ECHO) ET Studios Face Painting by Katrina Fidelis Care New York Girl Scouts Hiatt Magical Vacations Historic Richmond Town Integration Charter Schools JCC of Staten Island Kiddie Wonderland Little Monster Sleep Solutions Los Ninos Services Mathnasium Staten Island

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LIPM Music By Bee Line

Entertainment

Win

Four Tickets to three shows at the St. George Theater

ed b Sponsor

THE EGE OF Y A COLL SUND ISLANDD N BOULEVAR H ATCE T C S R RY O A T I M 2800 V

E E R 29 F D P I S / M NT.CO

2:30PM

Costume

Characters Elsa from Frozen & more!

M– 11:00A

SIPARE

Santos Mroczek MEET Angelica Miss Staten Island’s Outstanding Teen 2020 New World Prep Charter School NY Center for Interpersonal Devel. Northfield Bank Ortho Smiles of Staten Island Person Centered Care Services Rab’s Country Lanes Richmond University Medical Center Richmondtown Soccer Shop Rite SI Developmental Disabilities Council St. George Theatre Staten Island Academy Staten Island Day Camp Staten Island Family Music

Staten Island Skating Pavillion Staten Island University Hospital Staten Island YMCA Staten Island Youth Soccer League Smiles Around Us/Southfield Institute Spotlight Academy for Performing Arts The Lizard Guys The Resource Room Tiger Schulmann’s Karate Tri-County Care Tropical Smoothie Cafe Weichert Realtors Evolution Group Wendy’s

and more!

Sponsor March 2020 • siparent.com

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family C A L E N D A R

events & news

Our March calendar features hundreds single day. Plan your whole month with us!

STATEN ISLAND’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Sunday, March 1 • 12:30pm Hart Boulevard & Forest Avenue nyaoh.com The 56th annual Staten Island St. Patrick’s Parade will step off at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, led by Grand Marshal Dr. Bob Griswold, a Concord dentist and West Brighton resident known for his charitable work in the community. The parade route begins at Hart Boulevard & Forest Avenue, continuing along Forest Avenue and ending off at Jewett Avenue.

SUPER SCIENCE: FOSSILS

of events in Staten Island! There’s something for everyone, every

WEIRD SCIENCE FAIR

TOP ! PICKS

Saturday, March 28 • 1-3pm Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace statenislandmuseum.org 718-727-1135 Learn how fossils form and about their importance in understanding the long history of life on our planet. 6-12 year olds, accompanied by an adult. Register online. Free with admission. 34 March 2020 • siparent.com

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Saturday, March 14 • 1-2:30pm Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-605-3970 nysparks.com Do you like science? Check out the Weird Science Fair at Clay Pit Ponds and test out some funky reactions! Registration is required. Call 718-605-3970 to RSVP. For ages 5 and up.

COLLINA ITALIANA: LEARN & PLAY IN ITALIAN FOR TODDLERS

First four Mondays in March • 3:30pm Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue nypl.org 718-984-4636 Kids will discover Italian language in a playful and fun environment. Different activities will focus on learning vocabulary and expressions together. The series will focus on storytelling, songs, games, and creative expression. Children must be accompanied by a caregivers. Maximum 10 children.

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events & news SUNDAY, MARCH 1 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd. 855-569-6977 9am • Free Environmental Educators’ Choice Group Hike Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:30am • Free St. Patrick’s Day Parade Forest Ave & Hart Blvd nyaoh.com 12:30pm • Free Owl Hike with Urban Park Rangers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 4pm • Free

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

Mad Science: Black and Blue Oceans Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4pm • Free (must register)

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free

Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission CloseKnit Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register) STEAMtastic Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 6

MONDAY, MARCH 2

Preschool Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free

Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free

Kids can play and participate in fun activities, while parents meet exhibitors. Enjoy activities such as face painting, music, characters, Storytime Playspace meet the Lizard Guys and his reptile friends and so much more! Mariners Harbor Library Sponsored by:

SUNDAY THE

OF MARCH COLLEGE STATEN ISLAND

29 FREE 2800 VICTORY BOULEVARD

Sponsors

11:00AM–2:30PM

SIPARENT.COM/SIPD

March 2 - Read Across America Day March 8 - Daylight Saving Time begins March 8 - International Women’s Day

Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free Women’s Day Reading with Staten Island OutLOUD Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 2pm • Free Dr. Suess Day South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

March 10 - Purim March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day March 19 – First Day of Spring

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

Drawing Club Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free

Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

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events & news Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BARNES & NOBLE

NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

Every Saturday • 11am 2655 Richmond Avenue barnesandnoble.com 718-355-6033

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free DIY Binoculars Home Depot All Staten Island Locations 800-466-3337 9am • Free How to Catch a Dinosaur & How to Catch a Unicorn Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free

Barnes and Noble offers free storytime and activities for young children every Saturday morning. Here’s the March lineup: 3/7 - How to Catch a Dinosaur & How to Catch a Unicorn 3/14 - Pete the Cat: The Great Leprechaun Chase 3/21 - Pig the Tourist 3/18 - Macca the Alpaca

Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt Street 718-442-2900 4:30pm • Pricing online

SUNDAY, MARCH 8 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd. 855-569-6977 9am • Free

International Women’s Day Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure 10am • Free St. George Theatre International Women’s Day: 35 Hyatt Street The Riot Grrrls 718-442-2900 SI Children’s Museum 1pm • Pricing online 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Family Art Workshop: Voting Rocks! 12pm • Free Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A Living with Deer 718-727-1135 Greenbelt Nature Center 1pm • Free w/admission 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 Wings of Fire FanWing Fan Fest 1pm • Free Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue Life Through The Lens: 718-355-6033 Alice Austen Birthday Tribute 2pm • Free SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Cinema Saturdays 718-273-2060 Stapleton Library 2pm • Free 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free MONDAY, MARCH 9 T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Toddler Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free Leprechaun Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Collina Italiana: Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Ctr 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 10 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Scissors Skills for Preschoolers Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4pm • Free Evening Frog Watch USA Monitoring Session in High Rock Park Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 7:15pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 8am • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

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events & news Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

ZIMMER CLUB FREE YOUTH WINTER PROGRAM

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Anti-Bully Support Workshop Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 584 Bloomingdale Road 646-765-6531 4:30pm • Free

THURSDAY, MARCH 12 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register) Kids Puzzle Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free Anti-Bully Support Workshop Projectivity 1953 Richmond Terrace 646-765-6531 4:14pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Every Saturday • 9am 4411 Arthur Kill Road aezyouth.com 718-948-9599 info@aezyouth.com

The Zimmer Club youth program blends learning with recreation. Youngsters are introduced to to activities that bring conservation topics to life such as environmental conservation, estuary systems, Blue and Greenbelt management, hunting, fishing, boating, first aid, camping, archery, marksmanship, compass and map reading, and more. Please pre-register by email to info@aezyouth.com.

Storytime Playspace Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free YA Book Club featuring A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 7pm • Free NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free Storytime Featuring Pete the Cat: The Great Leprechaun Chase Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free

Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 15 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd. 855-569-6977 9am • Free Natural Basket Weaving Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free Sea Shanty Sessions Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free

MONDAY, MARCH 16 Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Wildlife Viewing: All About Ducks Clove Lakes Park 626 Clove Road 718-967-3542 11am • Free

Toddler Storytime with Police Officers Louise & Tammy Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free

Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free

Sensory Storytime Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free

Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free

Pi Day Party SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 12pm • Free w/admission

Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free

Weird Science Fair Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 1pm • Free

Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

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events & news Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

DIY BINOCULARS Saturday, March 7 • 9am-12pm Home Depot All Staten Island locations 800-466-3337 homedepot.com/workshops

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free

Set out on an adventure with your child in this month’s free Home Depot workshop. Kids develop hands-on skills by gluing, hammering and more. With help from parents and store associates, your child will create his or her own pair of binoculars to take home. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin while supplies last.

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

St. Patrick’s Day Crafts Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

Con Edison Family Science Night Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 6:30pm • Free

T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 8am • Free

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3

Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register)

Spring BINGO Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 Preschool Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free Storytime Playspace Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free

Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s All Staten Island locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free Storytime and Activities Featuring Pig the Tourist Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free Read & Make Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Forest Restoration Workshop Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 11am • Free Sensory Playdate Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

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events & news SUNDAY, MARCH 22

ANTI-BULLY SUPPORT WORKSHOPS

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd. 855-569-6977 9am • Free

March 12 • 4:15-5:15pm (North Shore) Projectivity • 1953 Richmond Terrace March 11 • 4:30-5:30pm (South Shore) Rossville AMA Zion lower hall 584 Bloomingdales Rd. 646-765-6531

Remembering Poet Audre Lorde SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/admission

MONDAY, MARCH 23 Toddler Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free Collina Italiana: Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

These monthly meetings hosted by Play It Forward are for children and teens experiencing any type of bullying (in-school, cyber-bullying, food allergy, etc), and parents looking for resources. All children and parents are welcome. The meetings bring those together who have lived through this experience and offer a safe place to share stories and brainstorm on how to handle the problem. Call 646-7656531 to confirm dates. TUESDAY, MARCH 24

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25