Any racer knows that a solid fundamental foundation is the key to winning. At Grand Prix New York, a professional track staff introduces kids from ages 8-16 to the basic fundamentals of driving as well as racing. With class sizes never exceeding 20 students, instructors are able to give the junior racers at GPNY the one-on-one attention that is necessary to master skills and excel! Schools are run once a month on the weekend and have produced nearly 1,000 graduates most of whom compete in Junior Racing Leagues and Endurance Races! Grand Prix New York, 333 North Bedford Road, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549. Phone: 914-241-3131. Web: www.gpny.com.
School Aged
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If you’re child is not a crazy reader (yet) — read up on our suggestions on encouraging them and getting started on the path to making them life-long readers. Click here.
And for the slightly younger set — our preschool book favorites. Click here.
Little Joe’s Books, a great bookstore for kids and teens in Katonah, NY. Little Joe’s is the only bookstore devoted just to young readers in Northern Westchester and carries 1000s of titles, along with games, toys and puzzles. They host regular in-store events, including a weekly “Story Hour With Miss Kathy”, a monthly series “Reading with Whoopsie Daisy, the Reading Dog”, and frequent author visits and book signings, special-themed parties, and more. See below for reviews from “friends at Little Joe’s” (kids who frequent the store) or the Pick of the Month from Genevieve – Little Joe’s fabulous and knowledgeable book source. Visit www.littlejoesbooks.com, or find them on facebook.
Visit our Library Page to find your local library or go to www.summerreadingnys.org for suggested book lists, games, and resources.
Aldrich Buddies: Inspired by the art represented in our current exhibitions, these workshops are designed to expand a child’s developing definition of art, while magnifying their creativity through stories, artwork and hands-on projects. Parents and caretakers are encouraged to participate alongside their children and to extend the learning experiences back at home. Materials and snacks are included and registration is required. Right Brain Saturdays. Ages 6 to 10. The two-hour workshops taught by local artists and museum educators allow children to experience artwork in the galleries and to apply the methods, concepts or ideas they see into their own projects. All materials are provided and registration is required a week before workshop date. Visit www.aldrichart.org email cpedraza@aldrichart.org or call 203.438.4519.
Amadeus Conservatory of Music offers private music lessons in piano, guitar, bass guitar, voice, drums, suzuki violin and cello (ages 4-6), and all band and orchestral instruments to children and adults of all ages. Our international faculty is composed of enthusiastic and inspiring artists, graduates of the Juilliard School or schools of like caliber who are dedicated to passing on their passion and expertise. Students participate in recitals and have the opportunity to hear their teachers perform. Early Childhood classes (ages 3-5) give young children the opportunity to play real instruments in child-sized proportions, such as 1/8 violins, miniature accordions and guitars, recorders, bongo and conga drums, and other percussion instruments. Music theory, electronic composition, chamber ensembles, and jazz ensembles are offered. The musical theater department gives students the opportunity to become knowledgeable in the art of theater. From performance of Broadway musicals to the various technical aspects of theater, students acquire a real hands-on experience, while working with trained professionals in the field. Locations: Chappaqua: 201 King Street, Bedford: St. Matthew`s Church, 382 Cantitoe Street, and Rye: First Presbyterian Church. Call 914-238-0388 for more information or visit www.Amadeusconservatory.com.
Students will develop stronger and healthier bodies, a positive attitude about themselves and others, and self-defense techniques. All classes held in the Multi-Purpose Room, Leonard Park, Mount Kisco. For information, call: 914.666.3059.
Named 2010 Best Kids Theater Class by Westchester Magazine, Applause Westchester is the highly acclaimed music and drama program that offers the perfect class for your child! Classes include Broadway Babies and Rock-n-Roll Babies Music Classes (4 months-3 years), Stars (3-5 years), Superstars (K-5th grade), and the Applause Weekend Workshops (5th-8th grade). Applause Westchester also offers Private Lessons in Singing, Acting, Dance and Piano. At Applause Westchester you can celebrate your child`s birthday with a customized birthday party of your choice that includes acting, singing, and dancing. Parties for ages 1-4 include Princess Party, The Wizard of Oz, Annie, The Sound of Music and more. Our older performance parties for ages 5-10 include our Hip-Hop Extravaganza, Pop-Star Contest, Hairspray and many more. Packages start at just $395. Applause Westchester, 114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 10543, (914) 835-2200, info@applauseny.com. Visit www.applauseny.com.
Visit the lower Hudson`s only riverfront environmental center! Our spacious interpretive center has spectacular views of the Hudson and Palisades, with fish tanks, and interactive exhibits. Outside there is a sandy beach and tidal marsh. Check out www.Beczak.org for a calendar of monthly family events, classes, and special celebrations. Open 7 days a week, 9 – 5.
The Bedford Katonah Hockey Association, also known as the Bedford Bears, is a youth travel hockey program whose mission is to help young players develop their skills and foster a love for the game in a family friendly environment. We encourage healthy competition, but place a greater emphasis on sportsmanship, team-play and simply having fun than on wins and losses. Bedford Bears, PO Box 766, Katonah, NY 10536. Visit www.bedfordbears.com, Email hockey@bedfordbears.org
BPRBA provides residents of Pound Ridge and Bedford Village with youth recreational baseball from Kindergarten through 8th grade. Recreation Teams are determined by grade. The Instructional League is for Kindergarten players and they generally play their games on Saturday mornings at Bedford Village Town Park. The Rookie League is for 1st and 2nd grade players and they generally play one game on Saturday mornings and one game during the week, both at Pound Ridge Town Park. The Minor League is for 3rd and 4th grade players and they generally play one weekend game and one weeknight game, generally at Pound Ridge Elementary School. The Major League is for 5th and 6th grade players and they generally play one weekend game and one weeknight game at Bedford Village Town Park. The Senior League is for players in 7th & 8th grades. Their teams play their games against teams from other towns in the Central Westchester Baseball Association (CWBA). BPRBA sponsors a team which plays in the Challenger League. This League provides a baseball experience for children with physical and mental disabilities. There are travel baseball teams in the summer and fall for age groups 9 and up. Visit www.eteamz.com/bprba
The BYSC In-house program is a for-fun, community developmental program focused on skills, sportsmanship, team play and a knowledge of the game. As it is often the first organized sport a child plays, we are intent on making it a fun experience for children and their families. It is also intended to develop travel soccer aptitude for those children who have the desire to transition to travel, which is more serious and more competitive. Most in-house age groups have parent coached teams with paid trainers. In 1st grade, parents can choose between a professional clinic program that runs two days per week, or continue with parent coaches and team play (with professional trainers). By second grade, more dedicated players may choose our pre-travel program. To learn more about BYSC, visit www.bedfordyouthsoccerclub.org.
Author: Patricia MacLachlan
Reviewed by Ashley Gambareri
The book is about 4 kids: Benny, Violet Jessie and Henry. Benny is 5 years old. Violet looks around 8 years old. And Jessie and Henry look around 12 years old. The story is about the 4 of them going on many fun experiences.
In the beginning there was a big snow storm and a family was driving across country and ended up stranded on the 4 kids’ road. The stranded family went up to the 4 kids’ door and asked to stay for awhile. In the family there were two kids and they were close in age to the 4 kids. Their names were Meg and William. They had a puppy named Joe. Benny loved Joe, they were best friends. Meg and William’s parent’s names are Sarah and Jake. The family stayed for a long time because their car broke down. The six kids loved playing together. They even made a circus.
Then a little bit later the piece Jake needed to fix his car arrived. That meant they could journey back home. The kids were very sad to leave each other but then they remember that they would be back in town next year to visit. They all said goodbye and they were off.
Later that day Mama and Papa set out to deliver treats. Then they did not return their neighbor Rubin and the police came down to their house and said that their parents had been killed in a bad car accident. The kids were very sad. They didn’t want to be separated so they ran away. They wanted to go visit Meg, William, Sarah, Jake and Joe and so they were off.
The Boy Scouts of America offers programs of character development, leadership training, achievement, community service, and FUN in the outdoors for boys starting in 1st Grade.
Summer Camp is a highlight of the Scouting year.
To learn more, visit www.wpcbsa.org or call 914-773-1135. Local groups can be found at beAscout.org.
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, Westchester-Putnam Council, 41 Saw Mill River Road, Hawthorne, NY 10532, 914-449-2611, www.wpcbsa.org. Bill.Kelly@scouting.org.
Marlins Swim Team
Boys & Girls Clubs Speedo National Champions:
2000 – 2001 – 2002 – 2003 – 2004 – 2005 – 2006 – 2007 – 2008
Interested swimmers are asked to call the Boys & Girls Club at 914-666-8069, ext. 115, to make an appointment. Please click here for the Marlins website for schedules and more information. Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester, 351 Main Street, Mt. Kisco, New York 10549, (914) 666-8069, www.bgcnw.com.
Author: James Preller
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 12+)
For the kid who is neither the bully or the victim, the question is “what do you do” — do you stand and watch, quietly walk away, or stand up at the risk of becoming the next target. The book talks about the in-between ground and where we all stand in the contest of Middle School social rules.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Chappaqua Children’s Workshop was established in 1982 and is a non-profit organization providing programs for children before and after school in the Chappaqua School District. There is also a preschool program for 2, 3, and pre-k aged children. For more information, call 914.238.3295.
Author: Cynthia Kadohata
Review by Essentialmom (ages 10+)
A significantly emotional retelling of a boy who joins the army during the Vietnam War and his role as a dog-handler — told from the perspective of the dog and the man. This is a great novel about the love between a man and his dog, the fear and craziness of war, and a tale of courage and bravery on both sides.
Rating 4 out of 5
Author: Patricia Reilly Giff
Review by lpmb114, age 10
A book about a boy who is afraid of eleven. With the help of Caroline he learns what eleven means and why he is afraid of it. This is a great book for kids (8 +) who like mystery.
Rating 4 out of 5
Through responsive and effective coaching, Fox Lane Youth Lacrosse will promote the participation of all children, of every athletic ability and experience, in the exciting game of lacrosse. We emphasize fun, positive sportsmanship, healthy competition, and love and respect for lacrosse. We offer lacrosse for children in grades 1-8 living in Bedford, Bedford Hills, Mt. Kisco, and Pound Ridge. Visit www.foxlaneyouthlacrosse.com.
The Girl Scouts provides quality programming, leadership training, and empowerment for young women throughout Westchester and Putnam Counties. To join or for more information, call 914.747.3080. Girl Scouts of Westchester*Putnam, Pleasantville, NY 10570-2110.
Groove Performing Arts® is a family-friendly music and arts studio offering eclectic, enriching programs and events for kids and their grown-ups in Westchester County. Groove proudly presents the award-winning music program for kids, Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals*, plus an evolving roster of original classes for kids from birth through elementary school. Parents also get into the Groove with group guitar lessons, monthly acoustic jams, book launch parties and other grown-ups only events. Classes, jams and lessons are offered in our spacious storefront studio in Larchmont and other family-friendly locations in lower Westchester and (coming soon) the Rivertowns. For complete class schedule and locations, visit www.findgroove.com. Groove, 108 Chatsworth Avenue, Larchmont, NY 10538, 914.834.3383, www.findgroove.com
Author: John R. Erickson
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 5+)
Hank, a lovable but goofy ranch dog, is the narrator in these tales of adventure. Hank “polices” the farm and talks about the ways in which he is often called on to “save the day” around the homestead. He is just funny enough for adults to get a giggle, and goofy enough for kids to understand his silly exaggerations. Hank is a completely lovable character and the books are a joy to read.
Rating 4 out of 5
Since its establishment in 1944 the School has become one of Westchester County’s most cherished and active cultural resources and achieved national recognition as a premier community music school for its unsurpassed leadership in education, performance and outreach. The School’s educational approach centers on quality individualized instruction, a comprehensive, broad musicianship program, and numerous performance opportunities for students. HBMS students acquire skills leading to a life-long enjoyment of classical and jazz idioms. Music Programs for Young Children offer a range of choices for preschoolers – music and movement classes; recorder classes; and Suzuki instruction on a variety of instruments. HBMS also offers a full Preschool for 3 and 4 year-olds. Hoff-Barthelson Music School, 25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY, 914-723-1169, hb@hbms.org, www.hbms.org
Fairytale Theater. Ages 3 1/2 to 5 years old. Play, pretend, move, imagine and more! Children will enhance imagination, coordination, and creativity by learning fun and fanciful theater games. Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main Street, Irvington. For more information, call 914.591.6602 or visit www.IrvingtonTheater.com. Creative Dramatics. Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grades. Creativity is the key as children learn basic theater skills through theater games, story telling, songs, and movement. Improvisational Acting. For grades 3-6. We will be using our props and our own bodies to act out scenarios to develop characters and original scenes and stories. Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main Street, Irvington, 914.591.6602, www.IrvingtonTheater.com.
Author: Wendy Mass
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 11+)
A beautiful book about a boy’s quest for ‘the meaning of life’ as he approaches his thirteenth birthday. His deceased father has left him a locked box and he must follow adventures to find the key and get it open in time for his birthday. It is a stunning story about loss, friendship, and the people who surround you in life.
Rating 5 out of 5
Jodi`s Gym has been providing New York kids the highest level of fun and fitness for 29 years! Their step-by-step, no fail approach ensures that every child feels a sense of accomplishment. From the tiniest tumblers to advanced gymnasts (9 months-12 years old), there is something for everyone. They offer Mommy & Me Gym and Gym + Music classes, preschool gymnastics, school-aged gymnastics, Motion Evolution, summer and holiday break camps, free monthly perks, free open playtime, play groups, private lessons, Super Soccer Stars, Krazy Kool Creation Lego class, and the best birthday parties ever. For more information, visit www.jodisgym.com.
The Katonah Art Center, located in the heart of historic Katonah, offers children from ages 2 – 18 a nurturing environment in which to explore their innate creativity. Our classes for children include Music for Toddlers, Mommy & Me Art and Clay, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Cartooning, Jewelry Making, Sewing, Computer Art and more. Our Portfolio Development Class will help teenagers prepare for their portfolios for college. Coming this Fall: Acting! Check out our website at www.katonahartcenter.com or call 232-4843 for more info. * Mention this listing and receive a $25 discount for any class or camp – limit one discount per family!
Art Adventures After School. Fall Series Begins October 11, 2012 at the Katonah Museum of Art. Runs October 11th, 18th, 25th, November 1st, 8th, 15th, 29th, December 6th. The Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay Street/Route 22, Katonah, New York, 4:30pm – 5:45pm. Pre-paid registration required: Students grades K-5: $120 for members and $160 for non-members for eight week course. Art Adventures After School offers several fun days for children to explore art this fall, inspired by the current exhibition, “Ice Age” to the Digital Age: The 3D Animation Art of Blue Sky Studios. Students will experience many aspects of traditional and digital animation and come away with a great appreciation for animation artistry. Memorable characters, fantastical backgrounds, Claymation, and stop motion videos will all be explored in this exciting series of workshops devoted to the art of animation. Information (914) 232-9555, ext. 0 or at www.katonahmuseum.org.
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 6+)
This is the perfect first experience with chapter books for kids — either read them out-loud to younger kids or, for children who are ready for more of a challenge, they can be read alone. There are TONS in the series, and each covers a very different story line (and you can read them out of order). The main characters are siblings, Jack and Annie, who discover a magic tree house filled with books — and each book allows them to travel to a different time, leading to many historically based adventures, so a little something new in every book.
Rating 4 out of 5
Mount Kisco Child Care Center
Welcome your child into our loving family
Since 1971, MKCCC has been serving families and children with its inventive, cutting edge, and comprehensive day care programs. Today, over 30 years later, we continue to promote each child’s intellectual, physical and social development. Mount Kisco Child Care Center, 95 Radio Circle, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, www.mkccc.org, djordan@mkccc.org, 914 241 2135.
The Music Conservatory of Westchester is a non-profit community school of the arts, providing year-round music, theatre education, and music therapy for people of all ages and abilities. The Conservatory’s 36,000-square-foot facility offers a Recital Hall and 43 acoustically designed classrooms and teaching studios. Their comprehensive programs, which serve 3,000 students annually, include performing ensembles, musicianship classes, student performances, master classes, workshops, and more. All students receive free admission to the Conservatory’s annual series of faculty recitals and children’s concerts. Scholarships available. Music Conservatory of Westchester, 216 Central Avenue in White Plains, NY. Phone: (914) 761-3900. Website: www.musicconservatory.org.
Now celebrating its 20th year, Music in Chappaqua customizes its music curriculum according to how each student wishes to develop. From beginner – career bound, toddler – adult, classes are offered in piano (jazz, pop, rock, classical), voice, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, saxophone, clarinet and trumpet. Rock instruction includes keyboards, guitar, bass, drums and vocals. Rock workshops are also available that culminate in a live rock concert in a New York City rock club. Open 7 days a week, after school and evenings. 220 North Greeley Avenue, Chappaqua. Please call (914) 238-3123, email at mail@musicincchappaqua.com or visit us www.musicinchappaqua.com and www.facebook.com/musicinchappaqua.
MUSIC LESSONS IN YOUR HOME OR AT MY NYC STUDIO
Train for Classical Piano performance, Jazz and Pop improvisation, Voice coaching and Development, Music theory, Solfege and Sight-singing, NYSSMA Preparation, Studio set up coaching and instruction, Computer based composition, Production, and Recording. Over 15 years of teaching experience both privately and in school. Any age, any level.
Graduate of Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA majoring in Jazz Composition and Music Synthesis. Master’s in Music Education from Lehman College, Bronx, NY. Music composer for Emmy winning television documentary. Appeared on gold R&B recordings, and recorded with legendary Jazz producer Teo Macero, composer arranger keyboardist and vocalist, and owner/operator of Manhattan recording studio.
For more information on my experience and credentials, and streaming examples of my music and performances, I invite you to visit my website: www.isaacraz.com. Please call 212-675-0717 for a consultation or a trial lesson.
No Limit Lacrosse is gearing up for our 10th season of Fall Ball. We would like to remind everyone that our Fall clinic “Lax-it-up” is open to boys ages 8-14. “Lax-it-up” provides a combination of position specific instruction, team concepts, and games. We urge you to sign up now, as spaces are limited and “Lax-it-up” has been sold out in the past. The first 10 people to sign up will receive a LIMITED EDITION NO LIMT LACROSSE HAT! Location: Fox Lane High School, Bedford, NY. Dates: 5 Straight Sundays – September 9th-October 7th , *October 14th (Rain Date) . Division 1: 9:00am – 11:00am (ages 8-11) , Division 2: 11:15am – 1:15pm (ages 11-14) , *11 Year old players can choose-Division 2 is more advanced* Click here for more information.
Always wanted to learn how to play?
North Salem Guitar has recently opened its doors and is accepting new students.
Come hone your craft in our comfortable and well equipped space and grow your music organically from the ground up. Our teachers provide private instruction to guitarists of all levels and styles and custom tailor lessons to the uniqueness of each individual.
Located on Deveau Rd in North Salem (by the Hammond Museum).
For more information, visit www.northsalemguitar.com, or call (646)530-0174.
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Where Children Learn to Love Learning
The Ossining Children’s Center’s teachers strive for a sense of extended family in partnership with parents. We work to support parents who are juggling their roles as family breadwinners and nurturers. And we understand that our relationships with the children entrusted to our care are crucial to their healthy emotional and cognitive development. Our programs serve children ages six weeks through fifth grade. Enrichment activities for our pre-shoolers include gardening, music, dance and movement, gymnastics, and nature study. Our school-age youngsters enjoy arts and crafts as well as cultural and recreational field trips. 90-92 South Highland Avenue, Ossining, 914-941-0230. www.ossiningchildrenscenter.org.
Summer Art Classes for Youth and Adults. A wide range of courses for the beginner or advanced student. Youth 15 and older may enroll in adult classes and classes for children 9mos to 14 offered. Classes are offered in the morning, afternoon and evening running 4-7 weeks. Classes for adults and children 15 yrs and up can register for a variety of classes including Botanical illustration, Crocheting, Yoga, Stained Glass studio, Glass painting, Quilting, Faux Finishing and more. Some of the classes offered for children 9 mos and up include Adult and Tot Music and Movement for ages 9mos – 2yrs and adult, Comedy and Improv for children 8- 14 yrs, Fashion Illustration for children 10-18 yrs and Mask-making for ages 5-9 yrs. Scholarships are available. Contact the Art Center for a complete listing of classes and workshops at 914-738-2525.
Author: Elise Allen
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 14+)
Cara’s moving to a new school for high school and she and her best friends make a pact to figure out how to become one of “those girls” at the new school — stylish, popular, and ready to enter a new world socially. The experiment starts to work and you watch as Cara navigates a new social life that she alternately loves and hates, while you love and hate HER as a character. Interesting twists and turns, humor, and a peek (or a reminder) of the world of high school girls — ouch. Contains some more high school appropriate content.
Rating 4 out of 5
Learn, practice & improve your singing in this small group (5 person max) singing class instructed be experienced proffessional vocalist, record engineer and coach to Americal Idol & The Voice finalist. Learn breathing, pitch, range,vibrato and how to sing your favorite songs. Fun six week class is offered every month. Eve Soto 914 659 9876. For more info/register click here.
Author: Priscilla Cummings
Review by: EssentialMom (for ages 12+)
For more mature readers, this story about a thirteen year old’s experiences with death, loss, and “doing the right thing” — it brings up BIG questions and even more discussion. The main character Brady and his friends experience a tragedy that causes them to challenge their life choices, their sense of right and wrong, their families, and more. This is great as a read along with the kids or as a book club discussion book. There are topics about death and making good choices that are better discussed, not read in isolation!
Rating: 3 out of 5
Author: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
Review by tbfarm, age 9
This book is about a secret team of agents on the RBI team who are from Ripley high school and are on a mission to report back to base about a sighting of a lizard creature. While on the mission they are chased by a group of agents from DUL, RBI’s enemies.
Rating 3 out of 5
Classes for Infants/Toddlers: The Rosenthal JCC Parenting Center offers programs for newborns through two year olds with their caregivers that challenge fine and gross motor skills, and promote physical, emotional, social and intellectual development. The Rosenthal JCC Main Campus, 600 Bear Ridge Road, Pleasantville. Contact (914) 741-0333×19 for more information. Rosenthal JCC Yorktown Branch, 3565 Crompond Rd. (Route 202), Cortlandt Manor, call (914) 736-3076 for more information. www.rosenthaljcc.org. Classes for Pre-Schoolers: The Rosenthal JCC offers classes that engage and excite your child and are taught by specialists in their fields. Rosenthal JCC Main Campus classes include: Daddy & Me Sports; Yummy Tummies; Gymnastics on the Fun Bus; Kids Love to Rock; Soccer with Super Soccer Stars; Theatre Arts Junior Program; and Karate Club, call (914) 741-0333×21 for more information. Rosenthal JCC Yorktown Branch, classes include: Jungle Beat; Crafts for Pre-Schoolers; Healthy Harvest; When I Grow Up, I Want to Be…; and Stay n’ Play call (914) 736-3076 for more information. www.rosenthaljcc.org. After-School Classes: The Rosenthal JCC offers interesting and unusual after-school classes for children in K through 6th grades. TRANSPORTATION IS FREE from Bedford Road, Todd, Armonk, Grafflin and Mt. Pleasant schools! Call (914) 741-0333×15 for more information. Rosenthal JCC Yorktown Branch, classes include: Adventure Club– hiking and orienteering; Craft Club– scrap booking; Young Chefs Club; and Jewish Jamboree– learning Jewish holidays and traditions. Call (914) 736-3076 for more information. www.rosenthaljcc.org
The Rye Arts Center will be filled with the pulsating sounds of jazz, wildly colorful abstract art and brand new classes beginning this September at its 51 Milton Road location in Rye. Classes begin September 12th & Oct. 1st featuring an array of new classes for children, teens and adults in the fine, music, and performing arts. Robotics, fashion design, and recycled art are just a few of the exciting new children’s classes this fall. For those experienced or just beginning adults and teens, there are some great new opportunities as well. Discover watercolor, acrylic, oil, or pastel paints, this fall. Dance for Parkinson’s Disease will continue to stimulate the mind, body, and spirit starting September 12th thanks to a grant from ArtsWestchester. Be sure to mark your calendar for the Sept. 28th performance of “September Sound Explosion” by the John Fumasoli/Bill Harris sextet, featuring Roger Ball, co-founder of Average White Band. And in the Gallery, curator Katharine Dufault has assembled an exciting collection of today’s most talented abstract artists in a show entitled: From Where I Stand, opening November 18. Register today to be a part of the Rye Arts Center’s new adventures in art, music, and performance! Visit www.ryeartscenter.org for more information or call (914) 967-0700.
Author: Jennifer Richard Jacobson
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 12+)
A serious story about a boy who, while camping in Maine, is abandoned by his mother, who has a mental illness. The story is about his struggle to understand his mother, his place in the world, and the way to safety for himself. The story chronicles his journey as he figures out how to survive and where he wants to end up.
Rating: 3 out of 5
After-School Programs at Stone Barns Center are designed to bring students in kindergarten through 6th grade to the farm on a weekly basis. Each session includes hands-on chores, animal and plant crafts, and in-depth examinations of life on the farm. This year, students will also harvest and prepare a seasonal meal in the kitchen. After-School programs at Stone Barns Center foster a love for the natural world, teach children where their food comes from, and encourage appreciation of local farms. Farm Explorers: Farm Life at Stone Barns, Grades K–2, examines all of Stone Barns Center’s farm life. Farmers-in-Training (FIT), Grades 3–6, help our farmers with chores such as collecting eggs and feeding the pigs. After chores are finished, these young farmers work on structured activities such as building trails, amending beds or moving animals. Space is limited. Please register early! For more information, please contact Sara Hanna: sara@stonebarnscenter.org or 914 366 6200 x111. Visit www.stonebarnscenter.org.
Hey all you 1st through 4th graders!
Jump into action and explore science and how it affects the world around us. Join this wild and wacky hands-on class where you will learn about scientific concepts and make and test hypotheses. Some results will be gooey, some fizzy, and some will even be EDIBLE! Example of topics we cover are: density (making “lava lamps”), chemical reactions (making balloons blow up just by using CO2), and physical science (learn about polymers by making bouncy balls!) Each session consists of six 45 minute classes and is taught by Romy Shapiro, a NYS certified teacher with an MA from Columbia University Teachers College. The club is conveniently taught out of Romy’s house in Mt Kisco, NY.
Call 917-697-6396 or email romy.superscienceclub@gmail.com. Visit www.superscienceclub.com.
Teatown Lake Reservation is a nonprofit, environmental organization with a nature education center and 834-acre preserve located in the Towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt and New Castle. Teatown`s preserve includes the 33-acre Teatown Lake; 15 miles of trails; habitats including streams, a scenic gorge, hardwood swamps, mixed forests, meadows, hemlock and laurel groves; numerous live animals and exhibits in our living museum/nature center, including nine birds of prey; and a two-acre wildflower preserve (Wildflower Island) with some 230 species of native and endangered wildflowers. Teatown offers a variety of children`s classes for ages 2 through 9 years, all include outdoor explorations with activities, games and crafts for a fun-filled experience! Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining. 914-872-2912. For more information on Teatown, visit www.teatown.org
Author: Maile Meloy
Review by tbfarm, age 9
This book is about a young girl about 13 who moves to London to get away from the government watch list which her parents are on. She then meets a boy about the same age as her who’s father is an apothecary and together figure a whole lot of things they didn’t know while being chased by a group of soviet spies.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Author: Gertrude Chandler Warner and L. Kate Deal
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 6+)
A classic book set that continues to resonate with children today. Four orphaned siblings run away and live together in an abandoned train car — the stories detail their adventures, their relationships, and how they learn to survive on their own.
Rating 3 out of 5
A Jewish education for your child when you don’t belong to a Synagogue.
Celebrating our 50th year, The Children’s Jewish Education Group (CJEG) is a cooperative school developed and run by parents. We specialize in families who are looking for an alternative to Temple-Based Hebrew School. CJEG has a wide range of members who live in Westchester and southern Connecticut. The school provides a way for children to connect with their Jewish heritage. Call 914-502-2381 or visit www.cjeg.org. We look forward to meeting you. Shalom!
Author: Chris Rylander
Review by Essentialmom
An interesting twist on the topic of bullying — you cheer for Mac and Vince who are a modern day mafia — but one that takes care of people’s problems. They exact a fee, and sometimes run afoul of the school rules, but their hearts are in the right place when it comes to protecting kids, doing people favors, and trying to run their school from a kids’ point of view. Questions of allegiance, bending the rules, and friendship all come to play as well as life choices, gray areas, and interesting interpersonal consequences and challenges…all while making the reader laugh along with the snarky author’s voice. A great Midde School read.
Rating 3 out of 5
Author: Jody Feldman
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 9+)
Gil Goodson’s father has been accused of stealing from the Golly Toy and Game Company and it is up to Gil to both prove his innocence and to win their recently announced competition so that the family can move away from the town where Gil believes his friends and neighbors have turned against them. Gil competes and learns many lessons along the way. The book is full of puzzles, rhymes, and brain teasers that you can attempt to decipher as you go along with Gil in the contest. Although there is a moral to the story, it is generally just a fun read and a good interactive adventure.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Author: Jacqueline Davies
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 8+)
An interesting take on sibling rivalry and summer boredom. Two siblings set out to create a lemonade stand and enter into a competition with one another over who will be the most successful. Full of tips and trials adding a little something to the reading, this story may even inspire your own kids to get a little business going this summer.
Rating 3 out of 5
Author: Emily M. Danforth
Reviewed by Isabelle Pierce as a sneak preview for Little Joe’s Books
The Miseducation of Cameron Post, by Emily M. Danforth, is about an orphaned lesbian growing up with her ultra homophobic aunt. This book is very good because it is real. It is not one of those books where love is always mutual and destroys all, because that is not how life works. Cameron falls in love with a straight girl with a perfect boyfriend, who can not love her back because of her beliefs. It is a story about being able to love yourself, despite all your flaws. I recommend this book to lovers of realistic fiction, especially John Green readers.
Author: Margaret Peterson Haddix
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 10+)
A new take on a historical time travel series leads a group of kids to find where they come from and where they are going and maybe save the world on the way. Cliff hangers from the very beginning, these are great historical reads, but with a great new twist.
Rating 4 out of 5
Author: Wes Moore
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 12+)
This is a very intense book which we read in our mother-son book club. It is best read in discussion and I would say that it is ages 12+ but with a more mature group. It is an inspiring and educational story about two boys — one who ends up in jail for murder, one who becomes a White House Fellow and Rhodes Scholar. Both boys start their lives in the same area of Baltimore, poor, disadvantaged, and with single mothers. The story leads us through big life questions — what happens with the choices we make, what makes a success, how can you fight to earn your place in the world and what are some barriers that people face to this success. A great book, but with the disclaimer that there are real life scenarios that are discussed as the boys make their choices — drug trade, poverty, and other roadblocks to these mens’ futures. A great piece for discussion.
Rating 3 out of 5
Author: Rick Riordan
Review by Essentialmom (for ages 7+)
We LOVED this series — the writing was engaging, quick and interesting. The story pulls you in and you can’t wait to get to the next book the minute you put down the first. There are definitely some scarier parts (with mythical monsters, gods, etc as an integral part of the books) but this is even a great read-aloud for slightly younger kids. I’d probably advise for kids 7+ in general though. The basics are that the children in the book (modern day kids) are descended from the Gods on Olympus — and Riordan somehow perfectly integrates modern situations with historical Greek Gods. Fantastical and fun.
Rating: 5 out of 5
The Rosenthal JCC of Northern Westchester is a Jewish Community Center where individuals grow, explore and connect to the community around them through recreational, educational, cultural and social services and programs. Our main campus is in Pleasantville with a branch serving the Yorktown community. For more information about our Jewish learning and celebrations, early childhood programs, summer camps, after-school activities, sport leagues, cultural programs, and social services such as early intervention and referrals or counseling, please call (914) 741-0333 or visit us online at www.rosenthaljcc.org
Author: Bianca Turetsky
Reviewed by Holly Cambareri as a sneak preview for Little Joe’s Books
(Publish date: September 18, 2012)
The book, The Time Traveling Fashionista at the Palace of Marie Antoinette, was a good book. It is about Louise Lambert, a twelve year old girl from Fairview, Connecticut. Louise is a normal twelve year old girl. Her only quirk is her vintage style. Louise’s style is unique. Nobody understands it! Her mother complains about how her style of wearing “used” clothes is weird and her father probably doesn’t know what vintage means! She finds out someone does understand when she goes to the Traveling Fashionista sale. Maria and Glenda run the Fashionista sale and Louise is certain she can find something to wear to her best friend, Brooke’s, thirteenth birthday party. But, what happens when a dress takes Louise back to the times of Marie Antoinette in Versailles! Louise explores the past as beautiful Gabrielle, also known as Duchesse de Polignac. Louise finds the true story of the times and tries to change history. She finds out who Marie Antoinette really is. She goes around as Marie Antoinette’s best friend. Louise also meets sweet Princesse de Lamballe who later is going to get killed and have her head paraded through Versailles! Louise meets Adelaide, the King’s daughter. Adelaide has a secret identity too! Louise looks for her magical dress, hoping to get back to the 21st century before the revolution. Louise finds her dress and goes back to Fairview but the memories still haunt her. It was a great book with everything it needed: fights between friends, creativity and quirks. It was a good book, but some spots were a little boring. If you powered though the boring parts you had a great part ahead of you. The ending was great and I wanted more!!! I’d give this book 4.5 stars. I’d recommend it to anyone who always likes to learn something new and loves creativity. Bianca Turetsky did a great job on the book. I loved it!!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Children ages 6-13 years create jewelry, ceramics, and paintings. White Plains, 914-684-0094.
Author(s): Hena Khan, David Borgenicht, and Robert Zubrin
Review by slsstorm268, age 12
This book is very unique, much like the Choose Your Own Adventure books. You are sent on a mission to Mars and you are to live in the Mars Base for a year and a half. But what is different about this book is that when you are faced with a decision, YOU get to decide what to do about it. Now, unlike the Choose Your Own Adventure books, where there is normally a happy ending, this book has only ONE route to survival and the ultimate goal. I may mention, that there are other books in this series that I have read, but this one was my favorite. This was because it was right along the lines of one of my favorite genres, futuristic space. It was not fatasy though, for there were no aliens or non-scientific being in the book, it was just a portrayal of what may happen in about 17 years or so. So, I would definitely recommend this to creative readers of all ages!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Author: Erin Hunter
Review by slsstorm268, age 12
This is a VERY large series and has a big number of characters, so it is definitely not a book to be read by a parent – BUT… These books are absolutely incredible! I have read about 40 of the Warriors books. These books are in fact all part of the same series, but you need to know one thing before you start reading these books. For one thing, they are broken up into four individual ‘series’. The order that it goes in is: Warriors, The New Prophecy, Power of Three, and Omen of the Stars. I tell you this because I learned from making the mistake of buying the first book of the wrong series. Okay… Back on topic. The plot is that there are 4 clans; ThunderClan, RiverClan, ShadowClan, and WindClan. In the first series, you meet a kittypet, or house cat, who goes from being a pampered kitten named Rusty to become one of the greatest Warriors ever, the great leader Firestar. The warriors are the cats who live within the Clans and fight against predators, other Clans, and evil cats outside of the Clans. These four series within the series are packed full of adventures, sadness, joy, and PLENTY of twists, turns, and just…cats.
Rating 6! out of 5
Built in 1996, the Westchester Skating Academy is the only NHL twin rink facility in Westchester. WSA offers top level figure skating and hockey programs. Birthday Parties, Group Rates, Public Sessions, Daily Freestyle, Full Service Cafe, Skate Rental, Hockey Clinics, Hockey Figure Skating Camps, Youth and Adult Hockey Leagues, Adult Coffee Club. Open Year Round. Call 347-8232 for times, Group or Individual Lessons (8 Week Programs) for Beginners to Adults, In-House Hockey Leagues (Mites through JV Levels). 91 Fairview Drive, Elmsford, NY 10523. 914.347.8232.
The gift of swimming is one of the best things you could give to your child. The swim lessons at the White Plains Y can help to instill aquatic confidence in both of you. Starting at age 3 months, you can enroll your child in our swim lessons. Our progressive curriculum, small classes and great instructors create a well-rounded program that will have your child sharpen this life-long skill. In addition to swim lessons, the White Plains Y has family swim times throughout the week to encourage families to enjoy swimming together. For more information contact us at 914-949-8030 email Hillary Gallacher hgallacher@ymca-cnw.org or visit our webpage www.ymca-cnw.org
Looking for a great way to give the young animal lover in your family a wild week? Send them to our Wolf Camp for a chance to thrive among wolves! We’re offering After School Wolf Camp sessions and Summer sessions too. The four day program includes opportunities for your child to: Learn all about wolves: Wolf 101, Discover the various myths that surround wolves and to create their own and share, Walk with a wolf!, Play a unique game of hide and seek using tracking and telemetry tools that real wolf biologists use in the field!, Create plaster paw prints from real tracks in the field. They’re great for show and tell!, “Wolfy” arts and crafts, photography sessions, and more! The program will run with a minimum of 4 children and a maximum of 10. All children who complete the program will get a special “Junior Wolf Biologist” certificate and other souvenirs! For children in Grades 2-5. After School Sessions (4PM – 6PM) – $100/child for the 4 day program: April 24th – 27th, May 8th – 11th, May 22nd – 25th, June 12 – 15th, June 26th – 29th. Summer Sessions (9AM – 12PM) – $150 per child for the 4 day program (includes snacks): July 10th – 13th, July 24th – 27th, August 7th – 10th, August 21st – 24th. Visit www.nywolf.org.
Author: R.J. Palacio
Review by EssentialMom (for 9-13 year olds)
A heart-breaking, uplifting, and amazing story about a boy with several facial deformities who faces going to school for the first time in fifth grade. A must read for anyone entering middle school, fifth grade, or for those going through “transition” years. Makes you remember how very lucky you are and helps the reader to think about the challenges that other people face every day. There are definitely sad parts and tough parts, but many, many uplifting bits to help along the way.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Author: R.J. Palacio
Review by tbfarm, age 9
This book is about a child named August Pullman. He has a few facial deformities and has never been to school. But this year thats all going to change. His mom and dad decide that hes ready for school. And while at school he has a bunch of exciting adventures.
Rating 5 out of 5
