OurChildren

About

Useful Information for

the Next Generation
of Jewish Families

From Camp to Career

Dreams Born in Summer
Stress Busters
Supplement to The Jewish Standard • February 2019
 C H I LT O N
MEDICAL CENTER
ONE OF THE SAFEST HOSPITALS IN THE
COUNTRY IS RIGHT HERE IN THE COMMUNITY

“A” is the highest grade given by the Leapfrog Group, an organization dedicated to
patient safety. What’s more, Chilton Medical Center was voted #1 mid-size hospital by
New Jersey doctors three years in a row. Atlantic Health System is proud to bring our
best to the communities we serve.
Source: The Leapfrog Group, a national patient safety group

To learn more visit atlantichealth.org/chilton

2 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019

 OurChildren
About
Open 365 days a year
Evening hours for sick
visits and checkups!
FEBRUARY 2019
Early Walk-In Hours
At All Office
5 From Camp to Career Locations on
Summertime dream 15 Stress Busters Weekdays
seeds planted How to Reduce the Burden
Call our main office to schedule a FREE
6 Camp Listings 16 Gallery “Meet-the-Doctor” visit. Meet a physician and the staff!
Myriad Choices Pictures of Our Children
for Your Children
New York Magazine’s FIRST
PLACE
17 Top Choices “Best Doctors” list! PEDIATRICS
12 Modern Parenting Great Picks for February
Offices in Tenafly, Teaneck, Fort Lee, Closter, Paramus,
Back on Track Oakland, Clifton, Hoboken, and Park Ridge
Old-Fashioned Rules
for New Times
18 Calendar 201-569-2400 · www.tenaflypediatrics.com
Things to Do This Month

13 Doing It Right 19 Gen G

Tips from Parents Have Baby Will Travel

!
Who Got It Down

19 Simchas
14 To the Limit Celebrating the Milestones All new
Setting Boundaries
That Stick
experience!

Cover photo: Making friends at Camp Veritans in Haledon Newer, Better, More Spectacular!

MissionStatement Thrilling New Rides!

About Our Children is designed to help Jewish families in our area live healthy, positive lives that make the most of the • Giant Slides • Giant Spider
resources available to them. By providing useful, current, accurate information, this publication aims to guide parents to • Obstacle Course Mountain
essential information on faith, education, the arts, events, and child-raising — in short, everything that today’s Jewish • Air Cannon Alley and Slide
family, babies to grandparents, needs to live life to the fullest in North Jersey and Rockland County.
• Sports Arena • And More!

AdvisoryBoard Birthday Parties!

Dr. Annette Berger, Psy.D. Jane Calem Rosen • Giant indoor inflatables
Psychologist, Teaneck Marketing and Communications Specialist • Private bounce and party rooms Spider Mountain
Michelle Brauntuch, MS,CCLS Barry Weissman, M.D. • Hassle-free, easy to plan!
Child Life Specialist, Englewood Hospital, Englewood Pediatrician, Hackensack and Wyckoff
• Dedicated party pros
Hope Eliasof Cheryl Wylen
Marriage and Family Therapist, Midland Park Director of Adult Programs and Cultural Arts • Clean, safe and secure
Howard Prager, DC, DACBSP YM-YWHA of North Jersey, Wayne • We clean up!
Holistic Chiropractor, Oakland FIRST
Beyond Birthdays! PLACE
PLACE
ley
FOR A Air Cannon Al

OurChildren
About KID’S PARTY
• Open Bounce KID’S FUN Obstacle Course
• Create & Bounce Art Camps PLACE
James L. Janoff Natalie Jay Slovie Jungreis-Wolff • Field Trips
Publisher Advertising Director Ed Silberfarb • Class and Team Parties
Kosher
Heidi Mae Bratt Peggy Elias Adina Soclof • Fundraisers and more! Available
Editor Robin Frizzell Contributing Writers
Deborah Herman Brenda Sutcliffe Paramus
Paramus· (201)
• 843-5880
(201) 843-5880 Nanuet · (845) 623-5400
us
Art Director Account Executives www.BounceU.com/paramus-nj /BounceUofParamus
www.BounceU.com/nanuet-ny
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70 Eisenhower Dr. · Paramus, NJ 07652 424 Market St. · Nanuet, NY 10954
About Our Children is published 11 times a year by the New Jersey/Rockland Jewish Media Group, 70 Eisenhower Drive • Paramus, NJ www.Facebook.com/BounceUNanuet/
07652
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1086 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666; telephone: 201-837-8818; fax: 201-833-4959.; e-mail: AboutOC@aol.com.

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 3

OurChildren
About
musings from the editor
A
nna.
Who would have thought
that her sudden death would
have me thinking about her for days?
She wasn’t a member of my family. She
was a neighbor who lived on our floor.
At 93, Anna was vibrant, indepen-
dent, brilliant, and beautiful. As so of-
ten happens at funerals, it is only when
a person dies that you learn about her
life. That’s what happened with me
and Anna.
Anna became a doctor 70 years ago.
She was the only woman in her medical
school class, an accomplishment that
took fierce determination, intelligence,
and courage. Her specialty — psychia-
try — was a good fit for her. She was
a consummate listener. Her way was
warm, steady, and reassuring. I could
see how her patients benefited from
her care, and cared for her.
So did I.
A patient of hers I was not, but ever
patient was she.
Sometimes I would knock on her
4 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
door to check in and
say hi, and before I
knew it, she would in-
vite me into her bright,
cheerful apartment,
f il led wit h book s,
plants, and a polished,
often-played piano. At
Anna’s, I would wind
up “on the couch,”
shar ing somet hing
that was pressing on
me. Anna just inspired
trust, conversation, and connection.
She also was a very good neighbor.
Shaina recalled how one Shabbat
she came home in the afternoon from
visiting a friend and couldn’t get into
the apartment. For some reason, I had
locked the door and added the chain.
Neither Jeff nor Yehuda were at home,
and I had decided to take a nap. Shaina
couldn’t get in. She became very con-
cerned, especially because I didn’t usu-
ally use the chain lock. My sleep was
deep, and the bedroom was far from
the front door. I didn’t
hear Shaina’s cries. To
whom did she turn? To
Anna, who invited her
in, calmed her down,
and tried (without suc-
cess) to help rouse me
from my slumber.
Warm, steady, and
reassuring, Anna was
there for Shaina.
That was a story
that Shaina shared with
Anna’s grown children when we went
to sit shiva. It was through her grown
children that I got the confirmation of
what I already knew – how wonder-
ful a mother she had been. Her three
children, each so different, all spoke
lovingly at her funeral, recalling their
mother as a giver, a Rock of Gibraltar,
and a unique personality.
At 87 years old, someone said at
her funeral, Anna decided to take up the
violin again. “I took a 75-year break,”
she had quipped.
It was vintage Anna.
For Anna — who raised her family
on Cherry Lane in Teaneck — it was
never too late. She was never too old.
She was always ready to grow.
Her death shook the neighbors.
When word spread, people were visibly
upset. “What?” they would say incredu-
lously, and they would estimate her age
to be 20 years younger.
I ran into one neighbor who re-
cently had moved to another floor but
remembered spending time with Anna.
“I was in her apartment,” Michelle
told me. “She played the piano for me.”
How incredibly lovely, I thought,
the way that Anna always shared a
piece of herself with everyone, and
somehow knew what to give and how
to make them feel central.
She had a true gift.
To Anna, and to a life well lived.
 OurChildren
About

From Camp to Career

Summer Programs Can Inspire Future Dreams
Heidi Mae Bratt

S
ummer camp is often a wondrous
experience in which children,
tweens, and teens are exposed to
brand new experiences. They not only
spend time with new friends in new set-
tings, but they have the opportunity to
become exposed to things they’ve never
known before. Where was the first place
that children learned how to swim? It
was at camp during the morning swim
instruction lessons in the clear, blue
pool. As young campers, fashioned with
arm floaties and noodles, the campers
learned how to do the back float, the
correct way to do the crawl stroke, and
how to kick for maximum movement.
Swimming, sports such as baseball and
basketball, arts and crafts, and other ac-
tivities were and are staples of the sum-
mer camp experience.
As camps have became more spe-
cialized — and now there are camps
that address every interest a child may
have — they have become places where Performing arts camps can lead to careers on Broadway and beyond. COURTESY BERGENPAC

youngsters may first be able to expe-

rience something that might become
the kernel for more knowledge and ex-
pertise, even culminating in a career in
the future.
Going from camp to career may
sound like a giant leap — after all, camp
ideally should be a respite from the pres-
sures of the academic year. But when
campers are serious about theater arts
or sports or comedy or robotics, it may
be the summer camp that spurs them on
to continuing learning and growing and
making their camp experience into a ca-
reer in the future.
College student and music director
of his college radio station Noah Preschel
said he is pursuing a career in music or
sports media and credits the time he was
a camper at Big Time Sports Broadcast-
ing Camp for giving him the exposure of
the possibility.
The sports broadcasting camp,
which is located on the campus of
Montclair State University in Montclair,
gives campers ages 10 to 18 a weeklong
intensive to experience “everything in
sports broadcasting,” from anchoring
to reporting sideline activity to doing
play-by-play. The campers learn many
aspects of sports broadcasting and get
to meet sports celebrities and big-name
sports broadcasters who work at ma-
jor networks.
“One of the best things about that
camp,” said Noah, who is majoring in
communications with a concentration in
public relations and journalism, “is that
the campers are exposed to the idea that
there are so many ways to work in the
sports world. You don’t just have to be
a star athlete to have a career in sports.
There are broadcasting opportunities
and other ways that you can have a ca-
reer in a field that you love, sports.”
Play-by-Play Sports Broadcasting
Camps, which offers ten weeklong pro-
grams across the country, including one
at Montclair, can count many alumni who
did get their first taste of sports broad-
casting at the camp, said Jeremy Treat-
man, the co-CEO of Play-by-Play Sports
Broadcasting Camps. Among their for-
mer campers are professional broadcast-
ers Scott Braun, Clayton Collier, and DJ
Six Smith, said Mr. Treatman.
For youngsters who dream about
stardom in a different way, there are
many performing arts camps that offer
both fun and, for the more serious per-
forming artists, a chance to get experi-
ence and exposure for their art.
Alexander Diaz, creative director at
The Performing Arts School at bergen-
PAC in Englewood, said that one of the
many things that distinguishes their pro-
gram, which has launched many profes-
sional and working actors, is that when
the youngsters finally get to perform,
they get to perform on the stage at ber-
genPAC, an experience that caps the sea-
son and for those truly interested, makes
them feel like a pro.
This summer, The Performing Arts
Musical Theater Camp for youngsters
5 to 12 introduces them to performing
and visual arts in a more relaxed set-
ting. A new Musical Theater Workshop,
aimed at 13- to 18-year-olds will run in
the evening and sharpens student skills
in musical theater, dance, vocal technique
and acting.
“It is for serious campers who are
thinking about a career in the perform-
ing arts,” said Mr. Diaz.
Black Box Studios at The Black Box
Performing Arts Center in Teaneck also
offers serious actors-to-be a chance
to cut their teeth locally. The tri-state
area’s cutting edge, fully collaborative
performing arts school and professional
theater combined, offers year-round pro-
grams for all ages and experience levels.
Classes in acting, improv, musical theater
and more, are taught by working profes-
sionals, including a popular summer in-
tensive for teens.
Neil Klatskin Specialty Camps at The
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly
offers campers performing arts oppor-
tunities galore from musical theater, to
acting, to comedy training, and more.
The JCC also offers specialty camps in
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
fine arts, basketball, tennis, sports and
other specialties.
Carla Rudow, the longtime director
of Camp Veritans in Haledon, said that
campers have developed careers because
they were campers at Camp Veritans.
They went from being campers to staff-
ers, and because they enjoyed being
with children so much, many of Veritans
campers decided to pursue careers in
education or guidance counseling, where
they continued to work with children.
“We have so many campers who
have gone on to become teachers be-
cause they said that when they worked
at the camp (as counselors), they wanted
to continue working with children,” said
Ms. Rudow.
“In fact our camp nurse decided
when she was a camper that when she
grew up, she wanted to be the camp
nurse at Camp Veritans,” she said.
For a sports camp at a distinc-
tively professional level, IMG Academy
is a preparatory boarding school and
sport training destination in Bradenton,
Florida, that runs a summer program. It
trains students and campers in baseball,
basketball, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer,
tennis, track and field, and cross-country.
Its tennis program has included such fa-
mous students as Andre Agassi, Monica
Seles, Jim Courier, Anna Kournikova, Ser-
ena Williams, and Maria Sharapova.
5
OurChildren
About

Open House: Thursday, March 7,

Day Camps
Camp Kef
243 E. Frisch Court
Paramus, NJ 07652
Phone: (201) 845-5007
Fax: (201) 201-845-5009
Ages 2.5 – entering 9th grade
June 24 – August 16
Approximate cost per child: $2,000
Counselor to Camper ratio: 1:5
Deadline for registration: Feb. 15, 2019
Dont’ forget to register for an amazing sum-
mer camp at Camp Kef. This is our final
early bird — register now to get amazing
discounts. Please see our ad on page 9.
Camp Sycamore (Grades K-3)
Camp FLAIR (Grades 4-8)
Fair Lawn Public Schools
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Phone: 201-794-5450 Ext. 2369
Fax: 201-703-2143
www.fairlawnschools.org/flcs
Grades/Ages Served: Children entering
7:00 p.m. Fair Lawn High School Cafeteria.
We offer fun and exciting programs along
with swimming, and a variety of academic
offerings. Camp day trips (1 per week) are
also included. Exciting classes offered by
some of Fair Lawn’s finest teachers and
counselors. Spacious air-conditioned and
convenient facilities in Fair Lawn Public
Schools. Head counselors are certified
teachers and CPR trained. Registered Nurse
on staff. Please see our ad on page 6.
Camp Veritans
225 Pompton Road
Haledon, NJ 07508
Phone: 973-956-1220
Fax: 973-956-5751
www.campveritans.com
Pre-K to 10th grade
June 27 to Aug. 16 (closed July 4), mini-
mum any four weeks starting July 1.
Cost: Varies by grade entering in fall
Counselor to camper ratio: 1:8, but lower
in most cases
Camp Veritans is a summer day camp for

Guide
Grades K-8
Session Dates: Four two-week sessions
starting July 1, 2019 (8 weeks total)
Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (before care
children entering Pre-K through 10th grade.
We offer a variety of fantastic activities on
our beautiful 64-acre campus, including Red

to
available at 7 a.m. for additional fee)
Approximate cost per child: $750
per two-week session (early payment
Cross swim instruction, amazing sports,
creative arts, ropes/challenge course, in ad-
dition to daily catered lunches, transporta-
tion and so much more. Specialized trip and

Summer Camps
Fair Lawn Community School
discounts available) travel program for eighth and ninth graders
Counselor to camper ratio: Approx. 1 to 7 and a comprehensive CIT program for our
Deadline for registration: June 25, 2019 - 10th graders. Please see our ad on page 7.
Registration begins March 7, 2019.
are the best and safest place for your child this summer
Fair Lawn
FairCommunity School School
Lawn Community
Summer Camps
are the best andbest
are the safest
andplace
safestfor your
place child
for yourthis summer
child this summer
Camp Sycamore (K-3) & Camp FLAIR (4-8)
Kim Ayes, Camp Sycamore ● Jason Becker, Camp FLAIR ● Larry Hurtado, Summer Programs
OVER
25
Acting • Sports • Cooking • Science • Exercise • Arts and Crafts • Technology
Swimming • Dance • Spirit Days• Camp Wide Activities • Assemblies ●
Trips • Movies and More
YEARS
Exciting Trips ● Great Classes ● Experienced Instructors ● Exceptional Value
● Convenient Hours 8am to 6pm ● Early Care Available at 7am

Exceptional
Check us out at our OPEN HOUSE
Value!
Thursday, March 7th from 7pm-8:30pm
Fair Lawn High School Cafeteria
Camp Camp
Sycamore
Sycamore
14-00 (K-3)
Berdan Ave, Fair& Camp
(K-3)
Lawn, & Camp
NJ 07410 FLAIRFLAIR
(4-8) (4-8)
Kim Ayes, Camp Ayes,Discounts
JasonifBecker,
Camp● Sycamore
Kim Sycamore paid full
Camp
• Jason before ●May
FLAIRCamp
Becker, 3,Hurtado,
Larry 2019
FLAIR Summer
• Larry Programs
Hurtado, Summer Programs
Acting
Acting • Sports • Sports
• Cooking •• Science
Call: Cooking ••Exercise
ScienceExt.
(201)794-5450 ••Exercise
2369and• Arts
Arts and
Crafts Crafts • Technology
• Technology
Swimming • Dance • Spirit Days• Camp Wide Activities • Assemblies
Swimming •Click
Dance • Spirit
at theDays• Camp
top of the pageWide
for theActivities • Assemblies ●
F.L.C.S. webpage
Exciting Weekly Trips • Movies and More
Trips • Movies and More
www.fairlawnschools.org/flcs
Air-Conditioned Facilities • Experienced Instructors • Registered Nurse on Staff
Exciting Trips ● Great Classes ● Experienced Instructors ● Exceptional Value
Convenient Hours 8am to 6pm • Early Care Available at 7am
● Convenient Hours 8am to 6pm ● Early Care Available at 7am

Check Check
us out us
at out
our at our OPEN HOUSE
OPEN HOUSE
Thursday, March
th 7th from 7pm-8:30pm
Thursday, March 7 from 7pm-8:30pm
Fair Lawn High School Cafeteria
Fair Lawn High School Cafeteria
14-00 Berdan Ave, Fair Lawn, NJ
14-00 Berdan Ave, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Discounts if paid in full before May 3, 2019
Discounts if paid full before May 3, 2019
Call: (201) 794-5450 Ext. 2369
Call: (201)794-5450 Ext. 2369
Click
www.fairlawnschools.org/flcs
at the top of the page for the F.L.C.S. webpage

6 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 www.fairlawnschools.org/flcs


Camp Veritans Teen Travel Program
225 Pompton Road
Haledon, NJ 07508
Phone: 973-956-1220
Fax: 973-956-5751
www.campveritans.com
Entering 8th and 9th grades
June 27 to Aug. 16 (closed July 4). First
session July 1 to July 26; second session
July 22 to Aug. 16; or full summer from
June 27 to Aug. 16.
Calling all 8th and 9th graders! Looking for
the summer of your life? Camp Veritans
Masada, Trip and Travel Program provides
a travel experience and day camp in one.
Campers enjoy two days per week in camp
experiencing all the fabulous fun our camp
has to offer. Programs include: game truck,
cooking, fine arts and our very own ver-
sion of Survivor. The remaining three days,
Masada campers enjoy a variety of day and
extended trips. Days trips include Six Flags,
Mt. Creek, Escape Room, Dave and Busters,
to name a few and then a two-night trip to
Club Getaway. The summer’s featured ex-
tended overnight will be a four-day, three-
night fun-filled exploration of Boston where
campers will experience all the sights Boston
has to offer! Trips and meals are all included
in the price of tuition. Visit our website at
www.campveritans.com or call the camp of-
fice for more information or to set up an ap-
pointment to find out more. 973-956-1220.
Please see our ad on page 8.
Neil Klatskin Day Camp
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 E. Clinton Avenue
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Phone: 201-408-1484
www.jccotp.org/nkdc
Age 3 – Grade 2
Mon – Fri, June 24 – August 16
9 a.m. to 4 p.m (shorter days available for
preschoolers)
At Neil Klatskin Day Camp, kids rule the
day! Our campers experience an amazing
summer of adventure, nonstop fun, and in-
credible friendships. NKDC offers children
the chance to be their best by offering an
exciting array of activities, as well as op-
portunities to make their own choices and
experience personal growth. Your camper
will learn new skills and explore what he/
she loves in our dynamic programming that
includes sports, Red Cross instructional and
recreational swim, dance, art, drama, mu-
sic, Judaic programming, special events and
more. We also offer a Hebrew immersion
option for our native/fluent Hebrew speak-
ing campers led by staff directly from Israel.
Plus our day camp is all-inclusive, provid-
ing lunch, snacks, towel service and access
to transportation and extended care, so it’s
easy on parents too! Membership not right
for you? All our camps are now open to the
community. Ask us about our NEW public
rates!
The NKDC Experience
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 East Clinton Avenue
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Phone: 201-408-1484
http://www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
Age 3 – Grade 2
Mon – Fri, June 24 – August 16, 9 a.m. – 4
p.m. (one week sessions)
Grades: 3rd to 5th grade
Do you love camp too much to pick just one
specialty each week? Do specialty camps
OurChildren
About
speak to you some of the time, but some-
times you just want to go back to the camp
Sports Broadcasting Camp
you grew up in? You can! Enjoy so many of
the activities you loved in NKDC and build
on that love with the NKDC Experience! Get
RETUR NS FOR OU R 14 YEAR !
all the fun of NKDC, with the added bonus TH
of weekly field trips, special workshops and
Boys &
more! An incredible variety of specialty
Girls
Montclair State University JULY 8-12, 2019
camps is offered for a full day of fun, from 9
a.m. to 4 p.m. and are all-inclusive, providing 10-18
lunch, snacks, daily swim and towel service.
LEARN from top sports
Campers also have access to transportation
and extended care services. Membership not
right for you? All our camps are now open broadcasters
to the community. Ask us about our NEW
public rates!
MEET professional coaches and athletes
CREATE your own sports anchor,
Sleep-Away Camp reporting, and play-by-play videos KENNY ALBERT
COMPETE in PTI-style contests
Camp Gan Israel in the Poconos PRACTICE sports social media and
Summer Address: Dingmans Ferry, PA podcasting
18328
Winter Address: 10 Hidden Glen Ln,
Airmont, NY 10952 www.playbyplaycamps.com
845.425.0903
800-319-0884 | info@playbyplaycamps.com
www.CGIPoconos.org
Grades/Ages Served: 7-14 years old
Session Dates: June 26 – July 23
Approximate cost per child: Tier 1 -
$5,500, Tier 2 - $4,949, Tier 3 - $4,399,
Tier 4 - scholarship application
Counselor to camper ratio: 1:5
Open enrollment
Camp Gan Israel in the Poconos provides a Your Child’s
truly meaningful experience for girls enter-
ing 2nd–9th grades with a public school or Summer Memories
Start at Camp Veritans
Jewish day school background. CGI Poconos
strives to deepen its campers’ understand-
ing of what it means to enter adulthood as a
strong, self-confident teen. Our small-group
setting envelopes our campers in a close- Day Camp!
knit family environment that supports the
building of friendships and the creation of
compelling moments that campers will be 4 Week Minimum - June 27 - August 16, 2019
inspired by forever. Please see our ad on
page 9.
Grant Program
One Happy Camper
Elisa J. Hirsch
Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey
50 Eisenhower Drive
Paramus, New Jersey 07652
201-820-3918
Grades: Entering 3rd and up in Sept. 2019
Tuition Includes: Wide Variety of Programs:
Jewish Federation of Northern New Jer- • Daily Catered Hot Kosher Lunches • Serving Pre-K • Arts & Crafts • Soccer
sey offers incentive grants of up to $1,000. • Daily Transportation to 10th Grade • Archery • Football
Grants will be awarded to campers who at- • Low Camper to Counselor Ratio • Nature • Mad Science/ • …and so
tend one of the over 150 approved Jewish
• Red Cross Instructional Swim • Go Karts STEM
much more!
overnight camps for the first time. Find the • Ropes Course • Basketball
right spot for your child to develop leader- • Extended Day Option Available • Cooking
ship skills, build community and strengthen
4-Year-Old Heated
their Jewish identity. To find a camp and ap- pool and
ply for the grant, please visit www.jewish-
Program
camp.org/one-happy-camper. Please see our Available air conditioned
ad on page 10. multipurpose
building
Call or Email for a
Science & Personalized Tour!
Technology Camps Registrar@CampVeritans.com
(973) 956-1220
Science Camp
(NKSC Specialty Camp)
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades Registrar@CampVeritans.com
Taub Campus WeLoveCampVeritans
411 East Clinton Avenue
(973) 956-1220
Tenafly, NJ 07670 225 Pompton Road, Haledon, NJ 07508
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 7
OurChildren
About

Big Idea Hi-Tech Camp gallery shows for children and adults. We of-
(NKSC Specialty Camp) Academic/ fer children and teens classes in drawing and
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
Enrichment Camps painting and more. Our summer session in-
cludes a variety of classes. Call for complete
411 East Clinton Avenue catalogue. Please see our ad on page 14.
Tenafly, NJ 07670 Big Time Sports Broadcasting Camp
Grades: 3rd to 8th grade
Black Box Studios at The Black Box
201-408-1484
1420 Walnut Street, Suite 605 Performing Arts Center
Philadelphia, PA 200 Walraven Drive
www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps Phone: 800-319-0884
Sessions: Monday-Friday, June 24 – August Teaneck, NJ 07666
www.playbyplaycamps.com 201-357-2221
16, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (two-week sessions Boys & Girls Ages 10 – 18
available) www.blackboxpac.com
Dates: July 8 to July 12 Ages 5 to Adult
Get ready for a camp like no other. Led by Day/Overnight options available
Guide an Israeli staff who bring Israeli innova-
tion, excitement and spirit to the JCC. This
The Sports Broadcasting Camp, located on
The Tri-State area’s only cutting edge, fully
collaborative performing arts school and
to camp offers a perfect mix of cutting-edge
the campus of Montclair State University in
Montclair this summer, is celebrating its 14th
professional theater combined, with year-

Summer Camps
201-408-1484
www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
Grades 3rd through 6th grade
Monday–Friday, June 24 – August 16,
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (one-week sessions)
Explore the world of STEAM — science,
technology, engineering, arts, and math-
ematics. Each week, experienced science
teachers will facilitate a challenging and
innovative program using hands-on experi-
ments, projects, and lots of FUN! All-inclu-
sive, providing lunch, snacks, daily swim,
and towel service. Campers have access to
transportation and extended care services.
Membership not right for you? All our
camps are now open to the community. Ask
us about our NEW public rates!
tech workshops and outdoor summer fun.
Campers focus on projects in a variety of
hands-on workshops, including robotics,
digital photography, coding, 3D modeling,
DJ, film production, digital fashion design,
and more. Curriculum developed by BIG
IDEA, the leaders of tech education in Israel.
Workshops presented in English and He-
brew. All-inclusive, providing lunch, snacks,
daily swim, and towel service. Campers have
access to transportation and extended care
services. Membership not right for you? All
our camps are now open to the community.
Ask us about our NEW public rates!
year. Learn from the pros. Meet sports ce-
lebrities; make play-by-play, sports anchor,
and reporting tapes. Participate in mock
sports talk radio and PTI-style shows, and
much more. Please see our ad on page 7.
Arts, Performance
& Music Camps
Art Center of Northern New Jersey
250 Center St.
New Milford, NJ 07646
201-599-2992
www.artcenter-nnj.org
Ages: 3 and up
For more than 60 years, the Art Center of
NNJ has offered art classes, workshops, and
round programs for all ages and experience
levels. Classes in acting, improv, musical the-
ater and more, all taught by working profes-
sionals, including a popular summer inten-
sive for teens. Email: blackboxpac@gmail.
com. Please see our ad on page xx
The Performing Arts School
at bergenPAC
1 Depot Square
Englewood, NJ 07631
201-482-8194
bergenpac.org/education
Ages 5 to 18
Session dates: July 1-19, Aug. 5-23
Approximate cost per child: $450-$850
Counselor to camper ratio: 8 to 1
Deadline for registration: June 1 with dis-
count if registered by May 1
The Performing Arts Musical Theater Camp
for ages 5-12 introduces kids to a variety of

i n ou r RA M
om e j o RO G
ONGOING
C E L P
REGISTRATION
T R AV ders!
T E E N th and 9
g ra th
r!
8 embe
ming re m
o to
for inc e s u m me r
ild th Spend the summer
e yo ur ch traveling through the
Ask about Giv
Metro NY Area and
our year-round experience our featured
programs “Big Trip” of the
summer…BOSTON!
Campers also compete in a
summer-long ”Survivor”
Competition!
For information Our 2018 Survivor Champions! FIND OUT MORE TODAY!
contact Matt at
matt@blackboxnynj.com • Three Days a Week Traveling Also enrolling
children ages 4
or • Two Days a Week at Camp and up for our
201-357-2221 Day Camp
• Day Trips and Overnight Trips programs!
• Team Competitions Ask us today!

NOW ENROLLING FOR

BlackBoxPAC.com SUMMER 2019
No refunds of deposits are available, yet they can be redeemed for future BBS/BBPAC Visit us at CampVeritans.com
workshop credit in cases of unexpected withdrawal. No refund of balances are available due
to any objections to material or final show choice(s). For more information contact our Camp Office at 973-256-1220
225 Pompton Rd. Haledon, NJ 07508

8 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019

 OurChildren
About

performing and visual arts activities, in a 201-408-1484 big musical numbers with solo opportuni- right for you? All our camps are now open
relaxed setting, while the Musical Theater www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps ties. Our day includes workshops in acting, to the community. Ask us about our NEW
Workshop for ages 13-18 runs in the evening Grades 4 through 9 movement, singing, dance and improvisa- public rates!
and hones students “triple threat” skills with 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (two-week session) tion. All-inclusive, providing lunch, snacks,
training in musical theater, dance styles, vo- Enjoy two weeks of dance technique that daily swim and towel service. Campers have Comedic Cabaret
cal technique and acting. Please see our ad explores all the latest crazes and new dance access to transportation and extended care (NKDC Specialty Camp)
on page 6. forms. Students take sessions in ballet, jazz, services. Membership not right for you? All Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
and hip-hop each day, while working toward our camps are now open to the community. Taub Campus
Bounce U an end-of-camp dance performance on stage Ask us about our NEW public rates! 411 East Clinton Avenue
70 Eisenhower Drive and in costume! Improve skill level, build Tenafly, NJ 07670
Paramus, NJ 07652 strength, and gain more flexibility while
Broadway Showtime 201-408-1484
201-843-5880 having a great time! All-inclusive, providing
(NKSC Specialty Camp) www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
www.bounceU.com/paramus-nj lunch, snacks, daily swim and towel service. Kaplen JCC on the Palisades Grades: 3rd through 6th
www.Facebook.com/BounceUParamus/ Campers have access to transportation and Taub Campus Sessions: two-week sessions
424 Market Street extended care services. Membership not 411 East Clinton Avenue A great chance to develop your own comedy
Nanuet, NY 10954 right for you? All our camps are now open Tenafly, NJ 07670 skills as you discover that acting is simply
845-623-5400 to the community. Ask us about our NEW 201-408-1484 make-believe. Students gain confidence,
www.BounceU.com/nanuet-ny www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps conquer shyness and learn clever acting
public rates!
www.Facebook.com/BounceUNanuet/ Grades 4 through 9 skills while having fun! Lots of Improvisa-
Create and Bounce Art Camp Center-Stage Sessions: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. tion brings expression, characterization,
A little bit of exercise goes a long way (NKSC Specialty Camp) (two-week session) storytelling, creative excitement and a lot
toward inspiring your artists’ minds. Kaplen JCC on the Palisades An exciting musical theater experience for of laughs! Enjoy “On Camera” technique,
BounceU’s Create and Bounce program Taub Campus beginner through advanced students to great monologues, and stand-up comedy
gives kids a chance to enjoy physical activity 411 East Clinton Avenue experience the fun of performing at a high tips. Program features a Comedy Cabaret
and creative time in equal doses, offering an Tenafly, NJ 07670 level in a comedic version of Beauty and the night performance at the JCC. Led by Adam
experience that’s healthy, mentally engag- 201-408-1484 Beast. Each student will have a challenging Sietz, a top VO artist and Stand-up Comic.
ing and seriously fun. Complete with lunch, www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps role, the chance to create a great character, He’s been in Broadway shows, many films,
snacks, and games, it’s a one-of-a-kind camp Grades 4 though 9 and to shine in big musical numbers with TV series, video games and over a hun-
experience they’ll never forget. Please see Sessions: (three-week session) solo opportunities available. Includes work- dred commercials. All-inclusive, providing
our ad on page 3. An exciting, high-level performing experi- shops to build and foster confidence, and de- lunch, snacks, daily swim and towel service.
ence for all students, beginners through ad- velop skills in singing, movement, acting, and Campers have access to transportation and
Dance Intensive dance with highly experienced director, cho- extended care services. JCC membership re-
vanced, in a Broadway-style musical, Pirates
(NKSC Specialty Camp) reographer and vocal instructors. Program quired for campers in grade 3 through age
and Pinafores. This production cleverly in-
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades terweaves three popular Gilbert and Sullivan includes swim period. All-inclusive, provid- 10. Membership not right for you? All our
Taub Campus shows — “Pirates of Penzance,” “HMS Pin- ing lunch, snacks, daily swim and towel ser- camps are now open to the community. Ask
411 East Clinton Avenue afore,” and “Ruddigore” — and includes great vice. Campers have access to transportation us about our NEW public rates!
Tenafly, NJ 07670 scenery, costumes, challenging dialogue and and extended care services. Membership not

‫ב"ה‬

YOUR NEW SUMMER HOME

Our Program:
• air conditioned facility • fully enclosed outdoor playground • large indoor play area
• full-size gym • bright, spacious classroom • teacher head counselors • 1:5 teacher to camper ratio
• special events • art • sports • nature • Ma'alot bi-weekly trips • Ma'alot specialty tracks.

June 24, 2019 thru August 16, 2019

Enroll by 2/15/19 for our

2019 Enroll
by 2/1
5/19 FINAL early bird discount:
Summer Pricing FOR RETURNING CAMPERS: AAPPPPL
NNOOW LYY
$150 off with a group of 4+ and free pizza WF
~~ $$11, 0 FOORR::
Toddler/Nursery Pre-K Kindergarten Ma’alot FOR NEW CAMPERS: FFIIRRS T
, 00000 ~
S T TTIIM
~
$300 off with a group of 4+ and free pizza. CCAAM MEE
$2,050 $2,250 $2,450 $2,550 (New camper refers to a camper not enrolled during summer 2018 or 2017.
MPPEER
GGRRAAN R
NTT
Each new camper can only allocate discount to one returning camper)

Extended Swim Program

Pre-K will now be joining Kindergarten and Ma'alot for swim

Register Online at http://mytads.com/a/bpycampkef

Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm M-Th • 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Friday • Optional Early Care: 8:00 am - 9:00 am
• Optional bus service • Optional hot lunch
Location: Ben Porat Yosef, East 243 Frisch Court Paramus, New Jersey 07652

For more information or questions, contact 201-845-5007 ext. 37 campkef@benporatyosef.org

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 9

OurChildren
About
a visiting artist who will teach a hands-on
workshop in their craft. All-inclusive, pro-
viding lunch, snacks, daily swim and towel
service. Campers have access to transporta-
tion and extended care services. Member-
ship not right for you? All our camps are
now open to the community. Ask us about
our NEW public rates!
Sports Programs/
Camps
Guide
to Sports Camp Plus
(NKSC Specialty Camp)
Summer Camps Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
Fine Arts Camp 411 East Clinton Avenue
(NKDC Specialty Camp) Tenafly, NJ 07670
201-408-1484
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
Taub Campus
Grades: 3rd through 8th
411 East Clinton Avenue Sessions: Monday through Friday, June
Tenafly, NJ 07670
25 – August 17, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (one week
201-408-1484 sessions)
www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
Grades: 3rd though 6th Try a different sport intensive each week!
Sessions: one week sessions Each session will focus on majoring in a spe-
cific sport, while campers will also have the
Get creative and have a blast at Fine Arts
opportunity to play other sports and swim
Camp! Each week campers focus on a dif-
each day, and enjoy a weekly field trip or a cul-
ferent, exciting project that will incorporate
minating competition. Major sports include
new art skills, methodology and mediums
soccer, volleyball/newcomb, floor hockey/la-
including jewelry making, painting, textiles,
crosse, swim camp, football, challenge camp,
sculpting, and more. Each session features
and fitness camp. See website for schedule.
10 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
All-inclusive, providing lunch, snacks, daily
swim and towel service. Campers have access
to transportation and extended care services.
Membership not right for you? All our camps
are now open to the community. Ask us about
our NEW public rates!
Basketball Intensive
(NKSC Specialty Camp)
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 East Clinton Avenue
Tenafly, NJ 07670
201-408-1484
www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
Grades: 3rd through 8th
Sessions: one week sessions
If you love basketball and want to improve
your game, this weeklong intensive camp is
for you! Basketball coaches lead court funda-
mentals and skills training, as well as endur-
ance and flexibility, in order to lead campers
to be the best basketball players they can be.
Special events that vary by week may include
special guests, field trips, expert demonstra-
tions, and competitions against other clubs.
All-inclusive, providing lunch, snacks, daily
swim and towel service. Campers have access
to transportation and extended care services.
Membership not right for you? All our camps
are now open to the community. Ask us about
our NEW public rates!
The Michelle Weiss
Children’s Tennis Camp
(NKDC Specialty Camp)
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 East Clinton Avenue
Tenafly, NJ 07670
201-567-8963
www.jccotp.org/specialty-camps
Grades: 3rd through 8th
Sessions: one week sessions
Calling all tennis players! This weeklong
intensive camp is for you! Tennis pros lead
racquet and footwork instruction, as well
as endurance and flexibility, in order to lead
campers to be the best tennis players they
can be. Special events that vary by week
may include special guests, field trips, ex-
pert demonstrations, and competitions
against other clubs. All-inclusive, providing
lunch, snacks, daily swim and towel service.
Campers have access to transportation and
extended care services. Membership not
right for you? All our camps are now open
to the community. Ask us about our NEW
public rates!
Special Needs
Summer Programs
Camp Haverim
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 E. Clinton Ave.
Tenafly, NJ 07607
201-408-1489
www.jccotp.org/special-needs-summer-
programs
Ages: 3 – 21
Sessions: Monday through Friday, August
12 – 23, 9 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Where differences are celebrated. Camp
Haverim is a two-week camp for children
and teens with autism and other intellec-
tual, cognitive and developmental delays,
who attend 11 months of special schooling.
Campers with sufficient communication and
self-help skills participate in a diverse full-
day program including social skills, swim-
ming and water park activities, sports, yoga
and diverse physical education, academic
enrichment, music therapy, art and therapy
dogs. Space is limited. Group sizes are be-
tween 4 and 8 campers. An intake interview
is required for all new campers.
Neil Klatskin Day Camp: Tikvah
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 E. Clinton Avenue
Tenafly, NJ 07607
201-408-1489
www.jccotp.org/special-needs-summer-
programs
Sessions: Monday through Friday, June
24 – August 16, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Campers with communication, social, be-
havioral and learning differences participate
in a diverse, full-day camp program, includ-
ing social skills, sports, arts and crafts, ce-
ramics, music, adaptive physical education,
both instructional and recreational swim,
waterpark, theme days, playground time,
carnivals, Shabbat and more. Small camper
to staff ratio to meet individual camper
needs with highly qualified staff. Half-day
afternoon (1 – 4 pm) option available for
campers who attend 11-months of schooling
(Proof of extended school year is required).
An intake interview is required for all new
campers.
Juniors Ages 5 – 9 (must be 5 by 6/1/19)
A traditional camp program. Group sizes are
no more than 6 campers.
Tweens Ages10 – 15
A special life skills camp that helps teens
gain the skills and confidence they need to
become self-sufficient in activities of daily
living, while enjoying a full camp experience.
Special attention is given to life skills as well
as academic enrichment. Group sizes are no
more than 8 campers..
On Our Own Young Adult
Summer Camp
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Taub Campus
411 E. Clinton Avenue
Tenafly, NJ 07607
201-408-1489
www.jccotp.org/special-needs-summer-
programs
Transitions: ages 14 – 21, Monday through
Friday, June 24 – August 16
Adults (ages 21+), June 24 – August 9
9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
The On Our Own Summer Program at the
Kaplen JCC on the Palisades is designed for
teens (14-21) and young adults (21+) with in-
tellectual and developmental delays, includ-
ing autism, who are able to independently
participate with a 1:4 staffing ratio. The pro-
gram helps participants gain the skills need-
ed to become self-sufficient in important
activities of daily living. Special attention is
given to self-help skills, i.e., personal hygiene
and dressing, cooking and safety, laundry
and house cleaning. Volunteer job sampling
experiences are included, both within the
JCC and at community based organizations,
and academic enrichment is also provided,
along with typical summer activities.
Margaret M.
Norwood, NJ

THI S I S WHAT
KI SS ING PAIN GOODBYE
L O O K S L I K E.

When Margaret came to us with unexplainable headaches, we assured her that we

would find an answer. When 27 other doctors could only shrug their shoulders at
the big picture, we leaned in to the little details. And when the right question lead
to the right path forward, we helped her leave her pain behind.

ThisPlaceIsDifferent.org
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 11
OurChildren
About
Modern Parenting Back on Track
Slovie Jungreis-Wolff
I
received a call to give a lecture to a group of parents
who are dealing with anxiety.
“What are they anxious about?”
“Everything,” was the response.
The next day the front page of the New York Times
said, “Stress, Exhaustion and Guilt: Modern Parenting.”
What’s going on in our homes?
The article describes parents who, regardless of
their economic situation, are constantly monitoring
their children. There is tremendous anxiety trying to get
children to climb higher and ensure that their children
succeed or at least do as well as their parents financially.
But for the first time it’s likely that the next genera-
tion will be less prosperous than their parents. And this
worries parents. Trying to get their children into after-
school activities, the right high schools and colleges,
and paying for tutors or being sure that high grades are
achieved through constant overseeing is taking a hard
toll. Parenting is grinding. Parents are getting worn out.
We’ve morphed from hovering helicopter parents
to anxious parents who are consumed. Researchers say
that the high expectations have permeated all segments
of society. It begins in utero with a constant influx of
which foods and products to avoid. Parents are pre-
sented with baby monitors that record a child’s every
move and whimper, pressured to make homemade baby
food, sugar free snacks, classes for tots, and the stress
to continuously keep up with classmates that only in-
creases with time.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends
that babies sleep in parents’ rooms for a year (!) and
when children view a video or children’s television,
shows should be co-viewed for maximum learning.
Parents should not leave children alone while they pre-
pare dinner or converse together. The message is that
activities are best when they are experienced by both
parents and children simultaneously. Adult conversation
and time together between husband and wife suffers.
Of course family time is valued but there must be a
balance that is found.
What is the effect of this constant contact
on children?
Temple Beth El
Of Northern Valley
NURSERY SCHOOL
Contact Director: Barbara Weinberg
E-mail: NSDIR@TBENV.ORG
201.768.3726
ACCREDITED FOR
QUALITY EDUCATION
www.tbenv.org • 221 Schraalenburgh Rd., Closter, NJ 07624
12 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
Psychologists and others have warned that our chil-
dren’s over-dependence on parents and hyper-intensive
mothers and fathers have produced kids who are living
with more anxiety. They are less satisfied with their lives.
They are filled with stress. When children are given the
opportunity to play freely and have leisure time they build
social skills, emotional security, and executive functions.
The Real Issue
There is more going on here than the pressure of in-
creased time and monitoring of children by their parents.
FOMO — fear of missing out — through comparative
living on social media had caused tremendous damage
to our family life. Parents feel inadequate when others
post their children’s accomplishments, trophies, college
acceptance letters and star roles in dance productions or
on the soccer team. Photos of vacations, sports events,
shopping expeditions and cool concerts pressure par-
ents to prove to themselves that they, too, are great par-
ents who can give it all to their kids.
Mothers and fathers worry that they are not doing
enough, providing enough, investing enough. Regardless
of education, income or race, a new study has shown
that parents feel that the most hands-on and expensive
choices are best. Social media only fuels the fire.
• Full-Day (7:30am-6pm)
Programs With Before &
After Care Options
• Programs For Mommy &
Me (Toddler Time)
Child centered curriculum
in a warm & nurturing
environment focused
on educating the
“whole child” –
socially, emotionally
and academically.
Parents exhibit their own insecurities that trickle
down to children. Why must we post our inner lives for
the world to see? Why are vacations more enjoyable if
we take the world with us? Why must we boast about
high marks, gifts of jewelry, expensive new sneakers, or
evenings out? We cannot base our lives on the life that
others live. Counting other people’s blessings prevents
us from seeing our own.
The Toll on Mothers
All this stress has especially taken the greatest toll on
moms. Though fathers have increased their partici-
pation in children’s lives, the real expectation falls on
mothers. The time that women spend trying to help
their children keep up is coming at the expense of sleep,
time invested with partners, friendship, leisure activities
and taking care of household needs. The pull between
career and time spent with children can also produce
great angst.
The power of a mother’s love is more valuable
than any after-school activity, technology, or pair of
sneakers money can buy. Living with a stressed-out
parent, no matter how hard she is working to maxi-
mize a child’s experiences, frays the bond between
parent and child.
Be authentic to the type of parent you believe you
should be. Be true to the experiences you wish your
child to have, not because someone else decided it’s
the thing to do. Reflect on a woman’s true mission in
a home: to imbue each child with a sense of being, a
purpose, a life legacy, as she transmits her mother’s milk
of faith. Don’t fall into the trap of pressure, exhaustion
or guilt. Parenting can be the most magical and joyful
experience — if we allow it.
Take a moment of introspection to ponder your
parenting journey. Don’t look back at these years with
regret because you were caught up with everyone else’s
desires. Live your life, know your children’s needs, see
your blessings, and build a home filled with love. Leave
the stress and guilt behind.
Slovie Jungreis-Wolff is a parent and couples educator, the
author of “Raising a Child With Soul,” (St. Martin’s Press) and
the daughter of the late Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis.
FREE
TRIAL
CLASS
We Do
Parties,
Too!
Age-Appropriate Curriculum
Mommy & Me Music Classes for Babies,
Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers
Sessions offered Tuesdays - Saturdays
NEW RIDGEWOOD
LOCATION
201-891-1807
www.musicalmunchkinsnewjersey.com
 OurChildren
About

Doing It Right: Tips from Parents

Adina Soclof One mom instituted date night – for the project and making a list of what boys she needed to play something that
kids. Every week, she and her husband they need. His son goes to the store and involved a ball. They all love it and it’s

T
here are those families whom we
all look up to. Even though it’s
true that we never know what
goes on behind closed doors, still, there
are those parents who seem to have a
handle on this thing called parenting.
Whenever I meet them, I ask them
what they think they’re doing right.
Here are some ideas that were
gleaned from my impromptu interviews:
Date Night for Kids
Children need their parents’ attention
and love; it is critical to their growth and
development. They will try to get it any
way they can. So if a parent is not paying
attention to them or giving them enough
love, they’ll resort to getting negative.
Adina Soclof is a parent educator,
speech pathologist and the founder of
ParentingSimply.com. She is available for
speaking engagements and can be reached at
asoclof@parentingsimply.com.
take one child out for ice cream. They
have six children; every six weeks they
each get their turn. This is meaningful
for both parents and the child. A little
quiet time, some loving attention and
ice cream.
Not everyone can do that. Don’t
worry. Ten minutes a day of your undi-
vided attention will make a huge differ-
ence in their lives. Don’t forget the basics,
how important it is to be there when
your kids get off to school, when they
come home, and tuck them in at night.
Foster Autonomy
This is a hard one in this day and age
when it doesn’t seem safe to send our
kids out the door. However, it’s essential
to find ways to help our kids grow to be
independent. One day they will leave the
nest and they’ll need to stand on their
own two feet.
One father I know does woodwork-
ing projects with his son, picking out
speaks to the store reps about his project
and what they would suggest. Then they
work together on the project, with the
father asking him, “Well, how should we
work this? What would be the best way
to do this?”
These little projects not only help
them spend time together, they increase
his child’s self-confidence and sense
of independence.
Play
Children love to play and they love when
their parents play with them. The ben-
efits of play are manifold. It helps par-
ents and kids bond and connect. Play re-
duces tension, bringing laughter instead
of frustration. Kids are much more likely
to cooperate when they are asked to do
things in playful ways.
One mom who has two left feet dis-
covered kickball as a great game to play
with her three rambunctious boys. She
realized that in order to connect with her
simple enough for non-athletes like her.
Family Dinner
The importance of family dinners cannot
be stressed enough. Kids who eat with
their family have better academic perfor-
mance, higher self-esteem, greater sense
of resilience, lower risk of substance
abuse, depression, obesity, and lowered,
likelihood of developing eating disorders.
In modern times, it is really difficult
to sit down together for a meal. Howev-
er, one mother I know made this sacred.
Her husband, who has a very intense job,
makes it a point to be home from 6 to
6:30 p.m. no matter what, thanks to his
wife’s insistence. He can then retreat to
his home office or go back to work. As
the years have gone by, he is grateful to
his wife. He feels he would not have had
the same connection or strong bonds to
his children (and his wife) if he didn’t have
those 30 minutes a day with his family.
See Tips on page 19

The NEW Early Childhood Trending This Winter!

Center at JCC of NNJ
Generous enrollment incentives available.
• Renovated facility with
state-of-the-art
classrooms
• Warm, nurturing &
experienced staff
• Educational
philosophy guided
by best practices in
early childhood education Call today to make
• All faiths and backgrounds welcome an appointment!
Call 201.666.6610 for more 23 W. Palisade Avenue
info, or to schedule a tour! Englewood
201-408-4441
The Jewish Community Center 1016 Main Avenue
of Northern New Jersey Clifton
605 Pascack Road 973-546-5700
Washington Township, NJ 07676
njeyeandear.com
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 13
 ,D
OurChildren
About

How to Set Limits

LeT s O
Art Classes for Children
Rt That Stick
Ages 5 to Teens
Draw, paint, sculpt with Adina Soclof comfortable with asserting their author-
professional artists ity and that children are unable to accept

Send for course schedule
and FREE voucher to
one session of any class.
Email with your name, address to
info@artcenter-nnj.org
Visit us on Facebook or
www.artcenter-nnj.org
ART CENTER
OF NORTHERN NEW JERSEY
250 Center St., New Milford, NJ 07646
201-599-2992
Give your child the Jewish education he or she
deserves and the inclusive, individualized
SPECIAL EDUCATION
that only SINAI can provide.
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WE SERVE CHILDREN WITH A WIDE RANGE OF DEVELOPMENTAL,
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Elementary, Middle, and High Schools
www.sinaischools.org • 201-833-1134
14 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
B
ased on the work of Diana Baum-
rind, a developmental psycholo-
gist, there are four primary par-
enting styles: authoritarian, permissive,
neglectful, and authoritative.
Authoritarian parents expect chil-
dren to follow a strict set of rules and
expectations. They usually rely on pun-
ishment to demand obedience or teach a
lesson. Children of these parents tend to
be timid and have low self-esteem.
Permissive parents tend to be le-
nient. They try to avoid confrontation at
all costs. Few rules are set and if there are
rules they are rarely enforced. This lack
of structure causes children to grow up
with little self-discipline and self-control.
Neglectful parents don’t care for their
child’s emotional or physical needs. They
may spend long periods away from home.
They do not provide a safe space for the
child where they feel that they have an
adult that they can count on. This is the
most destructive type of parenting.
Authoritative parents strike a bal-
ance between high expectations and
support, love and understanding. Chil-
dren feel comfortable voicing their fears,
thoughts, and opinions to their parents.
However, routines and structure are
maintained. Parents impose limits and
rules, and enforce consistent and loving
consequences when rules are broken.
Children from this type of parenting
generally become emotionally healthy
and stable adults.
Many parents would like to embrace
this authoritative parenting style but are
uncomfortable with imposing any types
of rules and limits. They feel like they’re
being mean or too tough.
Modern parents do have trouble be-
ing assertive. Our generation has been
ingrained with the democratic prin-
ciples that everyone should be treated
equally. We therefore have a much harder
time than our parents did in enforcing
authority.
And children today don’t instinctive-
ly obey their parents. The human rights
movement of the 1960s shifted traditional
mores. Duty and obedience were basic,
universal values in earlier eras and people
were expected to be submissive to higher
authorities. Today, submissiveness and
obedience are seen as outdated. Everyone
is fighting for equal rights, even children.
The fact that many adults are un-
it has created an unhealthy balance in the
parent/child relationship.
Children need limits and rules, as
well as love, support, and understand-
ing. Without them, children are unhappy,
stressed, anxious, and depressed. Under-
neath all their bluster, kids really want to
learn how to listen to their parents. They
want parents to stick to their limits and
enforce their rules. It helps them feel safe
and secure. Parents need to parent.
Parents today may find it easier to
embrace the authoritative parenting
method by couching rules and limits with
empathy. We can enforce our rules while
at the same time show children that we
understand that it is difficult to acquiesce.
Children are better able to accept rules
and limits when we show them that we
understand it is tough for them.
For example, instead of giving in:
“Okay fine, you can play on the com-
puter before homework! But never again!”
Try: “I see how frustrated you are
that computer time comes after home-
work. The rule is homework needs to be
completed before computer time.”
Instead of: “Sara, its time to go! It’s
getting late. Okay fine, you can play for
a little bit more, but then it’s really time
to go!”
Try: “You are so sad you have to
leave the park. You wish you could play
here all day. It is time to go.”
Instead of: “I don’t know when I am
going to go to the grocery store, but I
guess if you want the car you can have
the car!”
Try: “I hear how angry you are that
the car is not available to you now. When
I come back from grocery shopping it
will be available.”
These empathetic phrases will prob-
ably need to be repeated many times
when you are in the throes of a conflict
with your child. They also have the add-
ed bonus of keeping us calm; it is hard
for both sides to get angry when one
is using empathy and neutral language.
Most importantly, they evoke love along
with the firmness that is required of an
authoritative parent.
Adina Soclof is a parent educator,
speech pathologist, and the founder of
ParentingSimply.com. She is available for
speaking engagements and can be reached at
asoclof@parentingsimply.com.

Stemming Stress in Our Children
Is Critical for Their Health
Heidi Mae Bratt
A
s grownups we all suffer from stress at one
point or another, but do our children?
Science says yes.
According to the American Psychological Asso-
ciation, about 20 percent of children report worrying
a great deal. Unfortunately, parents greatly underesti-
mate their child’s emotions. Only 3 percent of parents
rate their child’s stress as extreme, and while 33 per-
cent of children experienced headaches in a study, just
13 percent of parents thought these headaches were
stress-related.
For children, whose bodies and minds are still
growing, a well-tuned stress response system is espe-
cially important. High levels of early stress have been
linked to impaired behavioral and emotional develop-
ment as well as numerous health consequences later in
life, including high blood pressure, cardiovascular dis-
ease, obesity, and diabetes.
About Our Children consulted with therapist Me-
gan Coral, a pediatric psychiatric specialist with Valley
Medical Group in Paramus to get more information on
the matter.
AOC: Are children more stressed today than in
the past?
MC: Yes, children today have a lot more pressure
to succeed at the highest levels and be better than their
peers, all to prepare for the future. These messages re-
garding achievement are given at earlier ages and more
frequently than in the past. Children today have the
added pressure and fear of not making mistakes, mis-
takes which can be easily recorded, viewed, and played
back by peers due to ready access of devices. Children
internalize these messages about success whether given
directly by parents, teachers, coaches, peers, etc. or in-
directly by watching their peers talk about their con-
cerns about success or seeing the rewards they achieve
or peers achieve. There is a major focus on the future
instead of the now.
AOC: What accounts for the additional stress?
MC: Children can be stressed by the pressure to
succeed academically, the many scheduled activities
they have and trying to excel in all areas, hearing about
others’ stresses, constant social and news media access,
lack of sleep, bullying and teasing, family transitions,
and lack of outlets for stress. Stress does not usually
come from just one of the sources I mentioned, it is the
combination of factors coupled with the inability to
cope with stress.
I want to emphasize a few main differences in stress
for the children of today compared with children of the
past. Children of today have the expectation that they
will be the best at whatever they do and if they are not
the best, they think something is wrong with them.
They do not think it acceptable to have strengths and
weaknesses. It’s not enough to be a good student or
athlete or musician or friend, they think they have to be
an A student, MVP of the sports team, first chair musi-
cian, student council president, and most popular. What
about being a good or kind person? The focus seems
to be that what matters is ability rather than character.
Children today live in a world of instant gratifica-
tion and as such believe everything should be immedi-
ate, including success. This is especially detrimental if
they have not found their arena of success when they
think their peers have. Children do not recognize that
they may have to work at something for prolonged pe-
riods of time, still not find success, and be proud of the
effort put forth.
Additionally, social situations are much different
today than in the past. Children used to spend time
with their peers at known times — school, sports, and
playing after school. Now, most children have access
to electronic devices, which allow peers, friends, and
anonymous users access to children throughout the day
and night.
Children have electronic devices through which
they can access any information and images instantly,
which when talking about stress can be harmful. The
information consumed may not be age appropriate ex-
posing children to natural disasters, death, violence, de-
struction, hate, or other upsetting information before
they may be mature enough to experience it. Even if
a child is not exposed to this information, chances are
good that they have friends and peers who have been
and are willing to share their experiences.
AOC: What are the psychological and physical man-
ifestations of this stress? What are the signs of stress?
MC: The signs and symptoms of stress vary based
on the child and can usually be seen when children com-
plain of or display symptoms that are not typical for
them for a period of time. Some physical manifesta-
tions of stress include, stomach aches/pains, headaches,
disrupted sleep, nightmares, and disrupted eating.
Some psychological symptoms include avoiding school
or friends, increased worrying, inability to relax, lying,
emotional outbursts including crying and anger, and not
wanting to separate from parents.
AOC: How do parents help their children reduce
their stress?
MC: Parents can help their children by being role
models. Children are always watching their parents and
how they behave and respond to life events and stress.
Parents talking about stress as a part of life and dem-
onstrating healthy coping skills is essential. Parents can
talk about stressors such as illnesses and moving, prior
to the event to the extent that they are able, and how to
manage stress during that time. Parents can teach chil-
dren about their emotions and about coping with their
emotions. Parents can demonstrate taking good care of
their bodies and minds by eating healthfully, exercising,
and getting enough sleep. Parents can provide a safe
and consistent environment for children with routines
that include spending quality time together. Parents
talk to their children and listen without trying to fix the
problem immediately. Parents can encourage children
to find solutions to their problems. Parents can focus on
the child’s efforts and recognize abilities instead of fo-
cusing on perfection. Parents can reward their children
OurChildren
About
with praise and affection — catch them doing something
positive. Parents can limit media and be aware of the
content children are consuming. Parents can give chil-
dren some choices to help them feel as though they
have control.
AOC: When is it time for a parent to seek profes-
sional help for a youngster?
MC: Parents may need to seek outside support from
pediatricians, therapists, or counselors if the child is ex-
periencing significant distress and the symptoms don’t
disappear within a few weeks of making some of the
changes suggested above. Parents may need to seek
help if a child is avoiding school for prolonged periods
or unable to control emotional outbursts.
AOC: Is there anything else you would like to add?
MC: Everybody has stress, but not everyone is af-
fected by stress in the same ways or at the same time.
Some sources of stress may be more impactful for
certain children and some children may be more resil-
ient than others. After you learn about stress in your
child’s life, notice how your child responds and notice
any changes in behavior. You know your child best and
don’t be afraid to ask for outside help.
Heidi Mae Bratt is the editor of About Our Children.
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ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 15

Junior Shiriyah Leaders at Frisch
The Frisch School in Paramus recently broke out its annual
weeklong Shiriyah, where students work tirelessly creating art,
music, dance and more to explore Jewish themes. This year,
the grades tackled four holy cities in Israel: Jerusalem, Safed,
Tiberias, and Hebron. Pictured here, the leadership team, the
generals and captains of the junior grade.
16 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
Gallery
Special Kind of Winter Camp
When winter break rolls around, most teen-
agers spend vacation days sleeping in, being
with friends or at the mall. But not all. The
Friendship Circle’s committed group of teen
volunteers helped children with special needs
with a memorable few days of friendship and Tu B’Shvat in Woodcliff Lake
fun. Each camper was paired with a teen vol- Second-graders at the Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley’s
unteer who shared in the smiles and laughter religious school celebrated the new year of the trees. Rabbi
of a day of music, crafts, baking, outside play, Shelley Kniaz talked about how trees provide food, shelter, and
zumba, art, science, parachute play as well as shade and help keep the environment healthy and clean. The chil-
other interactive sensory activities. dren enjoyed eating fruits that grow on trees, in lieu of cake.
Game On
at BCHSJS
The student mentorship
program at the Bergen
County High School of
Jewish Studies (BCHSJS)
participated in their
first-ever Panoply Game
to help form bonds with
one another. The newest
eighth-graders paired up
with veterans to compete
against the clock. The action
intensified when students
had to create a Hebrew-
letter statue by using their
own teammates to form
the shapes in creative and
gravity-defying ways.
A Play That Pays It Forward
The recent production of “Freaky Friday” at Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High School
for Girls in Teaneck, directed by Joyce Heller and Beth Selter, not only enter-
tained its audience but was an act of tzedakah. All proceeds went to benefit
Camp Simcha, which supports youngsters with cancer.
Lessons of Grit and Perseverance
Dr. Avraham Kadar, founder of the animated educational website BrainPOP, visited
the Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County in New Milford and spoke to
the middle school students about how his early battle with polio inspired him to
choose a life of science and business. He is an immunologist, a pediatrician, and an
entrepreneur who is passionate about making science relatable to young students.
 OurChildren
About

TopChoices FEBRUARY 2019

Compiled by Heidi Mae Bratt

Michael & the Rockness Monsters

at The Jewish Museum
Michael & the Rockness
Monsters, whose quirky rhyth-
mic melodies and rich instru-
mentation bring people of all
ages to their feet, will head up a
morning of music and art at The
Jewish Museum. Exhibition gal-
lery tour, art workshop, and story
reading follow the concert, which
runs from 11:30 to 12:30.
Sunday, February 10
The Jewish Museum
1109 Fifth Ave., New York
212-423-3200
www.thejewishmuseum.org.

Disney’s ‘Frozen’ Sing-a-Long

will warm the bergenPAC
Join Elsa and Anna in the screen
classic Disney’s “Frozen” at ber-
genPAC. Not only will they be
on the screen at bergenPAC, the
lovely princesses of the tundra will
lead the audience in a sing-a-long.
Elsa and Anna will be available for Sunday, February 17
photos in the lobby before each at 1 and 4 p.m.
show. Pictures are taken on a first bergenPAC,
come, first served basis, so early 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood.
arrival is encouraged. 201-227-1030
www.bergenpac.org.

Year of The Pig Celebrated in Newark

The spectacle of celebration of
the Chinese New Year, this year
the Year of the Pig, comes to
the stage in the form of exciting
dance by the Nai Ni Chen Dance
Company. Acrobats in colorful
costumes, twirling ribbons, and
dancing dragons are all on dis-
play in a spellbinding celebration.
Saturday and Sunday
February 2 and 3 at 2 p.m. NJPAC
1 Center St., Newark
1-888-GO-NJPAC
www.njpac.org.

Shanghai Circus Dazzles in Englewood

Astonishing athletes defy gravity
and execute breathtaking feats as
they stretch the limits of human
ability in this exciting show that
draws upon 2,000 years of Chinese
circus traditions. If it’s humanly
possible – and even if it seems as Wednesday, February 27
if it’s not – these Chinese acrobats, at 8 p.m.
jugglers, and contortionists display bergenPAC
their talents with spectacular flair. 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood
201-227-1030
www.bergenpac.org.

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 17

 The Good Life With Kids
FEBRUARY
This calendar is a day-by-day schedule of events. Although all information is as timely as we can make it, it’s a good idea to call to verify details before you go.
Sunday, January 27
Mitzvah Planning Workshop: Free workshop
from 11 to 11:45 a.m. at Park Ridge Marriott, 300
Brae Blvd., Park Ridge. The pre-showcase work-
shop presents ways in which one can incorporate
community service into the bar or bat mitzvah.
Mitzvah Market Celebrate showcase runs from
noon to 4 p.m.
JTS Teen Summit: Join teens from across North
America to learn advocacy skills, explore obliga-
tions of leadership from a Jewish perspective,
and consider the most effective ways to make
a difference. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by JTS
and the National Ramah Commission. The Jewish
Theological Seminary, 3080 Broadway, New York,
NY. www.jtsa.edu/teen-summit.
Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical: Presented
at 3 p.m. at the Rosen PAC at the Wayne YMCA.
Newcomer 8-year-old Lily Polkadot comes to
the small town of “Squares Only” Rockaway and
faces a tough task gaining acceptance from her
peers. From daily bullying to segregated drinking
fountains, Lily’s quest seems hopeless until she
meets Sky, a shy Square boy whose curiosity for
her unique polkadot skin blooms into an unex-
pected friendship. 1 Pike Drive, 973-595-0100,
www.metroymcas.org.
Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats: Enjoy the inter-
active jazz-scat-along play in a concert at 11:30
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz
Cats at The Jewish Museum. Great for children
ages 2 to 9. Scheuer Auditorium, at The Jewish
Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., at 92 Street, New York.
212-423-3200, www.thejewishmuseum.org.
Thursday, January 31
Little Lego Learners for Children: Children in
kindergarten through second grade will be guided
through a simple Lego creation and then allowed
to build on their own as time allows. Parents/
caregivers can drop off children and pick them
up 4 to 4:45 p.m. Englewood Library, 31 Engle St.,
Englewood, 201-568-2215, www.englewoodli-
brary.org.
Friday, February 1
Rock and Tot Shabbat in Tenafly: Join singer,
songwriter and educator rock star Billy Jonas and
the Temple Sinai Rock Shabbat Band. Tot Shabbat
starts at 6 p.m. followed by congregational dinner
and rock Shabbat service. Temple Sinai, 1 Engle
St., Englewood. 201-568-3035.
Tot Shabbat at Temple Beth El: Temple Beth El
of Northern Valley hosts a Tot Shabbat for local
families with young children. Services by Rabbi
David Widzer and Cantor Elizabeth Goldmann,
973-661-9368
18 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019
followed by a fun craft project designed for
children up to 5 and their families. 5:15 to 6:15
p.m. Temple Beth El, 221 Schraalenburgh Road,
Closter. 201-767-5112, www.thbenv.org.
Tot Shabbat: Play with friends, sing the
Shabbat blessings and songs, enjoy challah
and grape juice and prepare for Shabbat. A
free weekly drop-in class from 10:15 to 11:30
a.m. for youngsters birth through 4 years old.
JCCNNJ Parenting Center, 605 Pascack Road,
Washington Township.
Shabbat Kulanu at Temple Beth Rishon: TBR
is hosting a Shabbat Kulanu — meaning every-
one — Shabbat on the first Friday of each month.
A special start time of 6:1 3 p.m., representing
the 613 Mitzvoh from the Bible, will include
wonderful music and a story that replaces the
sermon. Immediately following the brief service,
juice and challah for children, wine and cheese
for adults. Temple Beth Rishon, 585 Russell Ave.,
Wyckoff. 201-891-4666.
Saturday, February 2
Yoga Shabbat at Congregation B’nai Israel:
Join Rabbi Debra Orenstein and yoga teacher
Andrea Collier in incorporating yoga poses
and Jewish mindfulness into the traditional
Shabbat morning service from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Because this Torah portion is related to the Ten
Commandments, participants will explore how
boundaries and frames can provide flexibility,
freedom, and creative engagement. Wear com-
fortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or towel.
53 Palisade Ave., Emerson. 201-265-2272, www.
bisrael.com.
Sunday, February 3
Student Recitals at Thurnauer: Be inspired by
Thurnauer School of Music students performing
as soloists and with piano. Recitals at 9:30 a.m.
and 10:45 a.m. Free admission. Reception to fol-
low. Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, 411 E. Clinton
Ave., Tenafly. 201-408-1465, www.jccotp.org.
African Dance Workshop: Join master drum-
mer/dancer/teaching artist Yahya Kamate,
a teacher at The Ailey School and Center for
Modern Dance Education, for a vibrant African
Dance and Drum Demonstration and class for
the whole family. 2 to 3 p.m. Teaneck Public
Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-837-
4171, www.teaneck.org.
Tuesday, February 5
Explorers Club in Teaneck: Explorers Club is
for children 7 and older to imagine, discover and
create together. 4 to 4:45 p.m. Teaneck Public
Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-837-
4171, www.teaneck.org.
Wednesday, February 6
Preschool Storytime in Teaneck: Children age
3½–5 are invited to our fun Preschool Storytime.
From 3 to 4 p.m. No registration required.
Teaneck Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road,
Teaneck. 201-837-4171, www.teaneck.org.
Blooming Babies: Baby & Me class for babies up
to 15 months and their parent or caregiver. There
are guest speakers and age-appropriate activi-
ties. Classes led by Parenting Center Educator.
This is a free, drop-in class. The Early Childhood
Center. 11:30 to 12:15 p.m. JCCNNJ Parenting
Center, 605 Pascack Road, Washington
Township.
Thursday, February 7
Little Lego Learners for Children: Children
grades kindergarten through second grade will
be guided through a simple Lego creation and
then allowed to build on their own as time allows.
Parents/caregivers can drop off children and
pick them up 4 to 4:45 p.m. Englewood Library,
31 Engle St., Englewood, 201-568-2215, www.
englewoodlibrary.org.
Friday, February 8
Tot Shabbat in Franklin Lakes: Tot Shabbat and
Pizza Dinner at Barnert Temple at 5 p.m. with
Rabbi Rachel Steiner and cantorial intern Danielle
Rodnizki. Our youngest ones (pre-readers) are
invited to welcome in Shabbat with us at this
musical family-friendly service. Barnert Temple,
747 Route 208 South, Franklin Lakes. 201-848-
1027, www.barnerttemple.org.
Tot Shabbat: Play with friends, sing the Shabbat
blessings and songs, enjoy challah and grape juice
and prepare for Shabbat. A free weekly drop-in
class from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. for youngsters birth
through 4 years old. JCCNNJ Parenting Center,
605 Pascack Road, Washington Township.
Saturday, February 9
Family Shabbat in Englewood: Join young fami-
lies at Congregation Kol HaNeshamah for Family
Shabbat at 11:15 a.m. Rabbi Lindsey will lead the
service on the campus of St Paul’s, 113 Engle
St., Englewood. Sing, dance, and get to know
other kids and families as we celebrate Shabbat
together. For more information send an email to
Rabbi@KHNJ.org.
Sunday, February 10
Musical Petting Zoo and Concert: The Elisabeth
Morrow School hosts a String Instrument Musical
Petting Zoo from 1 to 3 p.m. at Port Imperial
Ferry Terminal, 4800 Ave, at Port Imperial in
Weehawken. Children will be able to play real
musical string instruments with professional
music teachers along with student mentors. Ben
& Jerry’s ice cream, face painting, STEAM activi-
ties available. For more information, admissions@
elisabethmorrow.org.
Tuesday, February 12
Shutter Club in Teaneck: Come join a new ama-
teur photography club and learn about photogra-
phy and have a lot of fun taking photos with new
friends. For 10-14 year olds. 4 to 5 p.m. Teaneck
Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-
837-4171, www.teaneck.org.
Wednesday, February 13
Preschool Storytime in Teaneck: Children age
3½-5 are invited to our fun Preschool Storytime.
From 3 to 4 p.m. No registration required. Teaneck
Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-
837-4171, www.teaneck.org.
Bubblegum Book Club: Bubblegum Club is for
kids in second or third grade. The club will read
a book in preparation for the meeting, discuss,
and enjoy related games or activities. Advance
registration is required. 4 to 5 p.m. Teaneck Public
Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-837-
4171, www.teaneck.org.
Blooming Babies: Baby & Me class for babies
up to 15 months and their parent or caregiver.
There are guest speakers, and age-appropriate
activities. Classes led by Parenting Center
To Add Your Event
to Our Calendar
Send it to:
Calendar Editor
About Our Children
New Jersey/Rockland Jewish Media Group
1086 Teaneck Road
Teaneck, NJ 07666 AboutOC@aol.com
or fax it to: 201-833-4959
Deadline for March issue:
published February 22,
Tuesday, February 12
Educator. This is a free, drop-in class. The Early
Childhood Center. 11:30 to 12:15 p.m. JCCNNJ
Parenting Center, 605 Pascack Road, Washington
Township.
Thursday, February 14
Little Lego Learners for Children: Children
grades kindergarten through second grade will
be guided through a simple Lego creation and
then allowed to build on their own as time allows.
Parents/caregivers can drop off children and pick
them up 4 to 4:45 p.m. Englewood Library, 31
Engle St., Englewood, 201-568-2215, www.engle-
woodlibrary.org.
Gaming in Teaneck: Join us for board games,
card games, and video games on the Wii and
Switch consoles. Grades 5-12. No registration
necessary. 4 to 5 p.m. Teaneck Public Library,
840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-837-4171, www.
teaneck.org.
Friday, February 15
Tot Shabbat: Play with friends, sing the Shabbat
blessings and songs, enjoy challah and grape juice
and prepare for Shabbat. A free weekly drop-in
class from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. for youngsters birth
through 4 years old. JCCNNJ Parenting Center,
605 Pascack Road, Washington Township.
Wednesday, February 20
Preschool Storytime in Teaneck: Children age
3½–5 are invited to our fun Preschool Storytime.
From 3 to 4 p.m. No registration required. Teaneck
Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-
837-4171, www.teaneck.org.
Blooming Babies: Baby & Me class for babies up
to 15 months and their parent or caregiver. There
are guest speakers, and age-appropriate activities.
Classes led by Parenting Center Educator. This is
a free, drop-in class. The Early Childhood Center.
11:30 to 12:15 p.m. JCCNNJ Parenting Center, 605
Pascack Road, Washington Township.
Thursday, February 21
Little Lego Learners for Children: Children
grades kindergarten through second grade will
be guided through a simple Lego creation and
then allowed to build on their own as time allows.
Parents/caregivers can drop off children and pick
them up 4 to 4:45 p.m. Englewood Library, 31
Engle St., Englewood, 201-568-2215, www.engle-
woodlibrary.org.
Gaming in Teaneck: Join us for board games,
card games and video games on the Wii and
Switch consoles. Grades 5-12. No registration
necessary.4 to 5 p.m. Teaneck Public Library, 840
Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-837-4171, www.
teaneck.org.
Friday, February 22
Tot Shabbat: Play with friends, sing the Shabbat
blessings and songs, enjoy challah and grape juice
and prepare for Shabbat. A free weekly drop-in
class from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. for youngsters birth
through 4 years old. JCCNNJ Parenting Center,
605 Pascack Road, Washington Township.
Tuesday, February 26
Shutter Club in Teaneck: Come join a new ama-
teur photography club and learn about photogra-
phy and have a lot of fun taking photos with new
friends. For 10–14 year olds. 4 to 5 p.m. Teaneck
Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck. 201-
837-4171, www.teaneck.org.
 Generation G
Brave New World: Have Baby, Will Travel
Ed Silberfarb with snow gathering on bottom boat rocked in a Six-Day War. The sacred sites were now
the windshield. In the queasy motion that soon under Israeli control.

O
ur son was born 50 years ago
on February 2, Groundhog Day.
Along with the mazel tovs was
the inevitable, “Did he see his shadow?”
Not much chance of that in the delivery
room of St. Vincent’s Hospital, but there
were six more weeks of severe winter
anyway.
In eight days came a snowstorm that
crippled the city and stranded the out-
of-town visitors who were in New York
for the bris.
For most, it was a maddening dis-
ruption. For my wife it was a chance to
go skiing. We had a standing invitation
to visit my brother in Vermont and make
use of the nearby ski trails of Killington
Mountain.
“I think you ought to have your head
examined,” was a doctor friend’s cheery
vote of confidence. He told of a couple
who went on a mid-winter car trip in
a blizzard with their baby, who caught
pneumonia and died. “An infant’s lungs
are not developed enough.”
He was not the only naysayer. My
wife’s obstetrician was horrified at the
idea of a women two weeks post partum
on the ski slopes. We nodded politely at
both and prepared for the trip.
Our first day of skiing, with my
sister-in-law minding the baby, ended
with an omen of trouble ahead. Though
we had survived with no injuries, some-
one had broken into our parked car
and stolen cash and a wristwatch that
I had put in the glove compartment for
safekeeping.
Our drive home began in a blind-
ing snowstorm with cars sliding off the
road and wipers that couldn’t keep up
rear seat my wife chat-
ted with the baby while
nursing him and keep-
ing him warm. I kept the
car creeping behind a
snowplow, and thought
about the infant who
died of pneumonia in
the blizzard. Do I pull
off the road and con-
tend with freezing tem-
peratures and a car that
may not start again? The author’s wife and 5-month-
I agonized through old baby 50 years ago in the
highest pool of Israel’s Ein Gedi
Vermont and Massachu- Nature Preserve.
setts. In Connecticut the
snow stopped and the road cleared. We
had defied the gods of doom.
Two months later my wife’s nephew
was to become a bar mitzvah in Florida.
It would be a trip without snow and
freezing weather, but it was not without
hazards. Our now two-month-old baby
would soon endure another adventure.
The coral reef at Pennekamp State
Park was fascinating for scuba divers
and snorkelers. We would not be denied.
We packed a lunch and the baby, along
with the newly minted bar mitzvah and
his mother, my wife’s sister, and were on
our way.
At the park, my wife, her sister, and
the baby boarded a glass-bottom boat,
which afforded a comfortable viewing
of the reef. The bar mitzvah and I, more
adventurous, rented a skiff with an out-
board motor. Equipped with snorkeling
gear we would jump off the boat for a
first-hand look at the spectacular reef
and the colorful fish that swam about.
The water was rough, and the glass-
became unpleasantly fa-
miliar to many on board.
In the skiff we pushed on
to where we thought the
reef would be and won-
dered how it could pos-
sibly have moved. When
we found it we were in
awe to find how deep it
was. Never mind floating
on the surface, breathing
through a tube and look-
ing through a facemask.
The coral rewards those
who make their way into
the turbulent water.
Time to head back to shore. Ahead
was another boat obviously in distress
with two teenage girls aboard. “We’ll
send help when we get back,” I reassured
them. But my 13-year-old nephew, who
had a Don Quixote complex and a ru-
dimentary knowledge of boats, tried to
pull alongside. Our motor hit something
and we learned later that we had broken
a pin, a mystery to me, but enough to
leave us adrift. The girls apologized and
sailed away.
By the time the harbormaster towed
us in, the glass-bottom boat was safely in
the dock. Its passengers were less secure.
My wife, with a pale green complexion,
walked wobbly ashore, holding the baby.
Her sister threw herself on the grass and
announced she was never moving. The
baby? He slept through it all.
In June, the baby, now five months
old and a veteran of New England snow-
storms and choppy Florida waters, was
about to experience an adventure of a
lifetime, a trip to Israel, our first since the
Our friends, who counseled against
a Vermont ski trip with the baby,
were just as adamant against a trip to
Israel — feeding, transportation, bath-
ing, medical care, primitive conditions in
a country only 20 years old. “You won‘t
even be able to wash diapers.”
The diaper problem was eas-
ily solved. Available to us was a new
item — the disposable diaper. We packed
a month’s supply in a giant carton that
drew the attention of Israeli security at
the Kennedy Airport.
Feeding a five-month-old on an
overseas trip was easy for a nursing
mother who had a portable dispenser
of nutritious food readily available. And
traveling with an infant who was still a
basket case is easy. There’s no crawling
or toddling to contend with. A simple
carriage that comes apart and becomes
a bed was all we needed.
The only health precaution was to
keep the fair-skinned baby out of the
sun, and obey the admonition of the
Israelis, who all said, “Such a white baby!
Give that baby to drink.”
By age six months, the child already
had a lifetime of adventures, but there
was another to come, perhaps the most
wondrous of all. On July 20 the three of
us, with the help of a TV set, saw Neil
Armstrong set foot on the moon.
Ed Silberfarb was a reporter for the Bergen
Record in New Jersey, then the New York
Herald Tribune where he was City Hall
bureau chief. Later, he was a public informa-
tion officer for the New York City Transit
Authority and editor of one of its employee
publications.

Simcha Focus on Solutions

Tips from page 13

Birth Children who are taught to problem-solve and look

ABIGAIL LEAH JAY
Abigail Leah Jay was born at
Saint Barnabas Medical Center
in Livingston on January 9, 2019,
to Rachel and Adam Jay of
Springfield. She weighed 6 pounds,
1 ounce, and was 18 inches long.
She joins a sister, Rebecca Shara.
Her grandparents are Beth and
Robert Chananie of Paramus,
and Cindy and the late Robert Jay
of Edison. Great-grandparents
are Frances and the late Richard
Chananie of West Palm Beach, Fla.,
formerly of Englewood Cliffs, Lenny
and the late Shara Maxine Weckstein
of Maplewood, formerly of Newark,
and the late Molly and Alvin Jay of
Scotch Plains, formerly of Springfield.
She is also the great-granddaughter
of the late Ruth and Morris Janoff
of Teaneck, formerly of Jersey
City, founder of The Jewish
Standard. Her uncles are Joshua
(Arlene) Chananie of Clifton,
and cousins, Kylie and Taylor,
Michael (Alyson) Chananie of
Fanwood, and Evan Jay of Edison.
Her great-uncles are Brad (Leslie)
Chananie of Westfield, Michael
(Renee) Weckstein of Springfield,
Gary (Yanli) Jay of Durham, N.C.,
Larry Jay of Scotch Plains, and the
late Jeffrey Jay. She is also the
great-niece of James Janoff, Jewish
Standard publisher.
for solutions to their problems instead of complaining
and creating drama feel good about themselves. They
tend to be calmer and more resourceful.
One mom tries to ask her children’s opinions on
household matters. For example: “We are having your
cousins over, do you think they would like to sleep in
the guest room or camp out with you?” “We are hav-
ing guests this Shabbes. They have little kids. What
kinds of foods do you think they will like? What
should we make for them?”
And the kids have some really great ideas and
insights.
Ask parents who you respect for their tips on
how to raise great kids. You’ll discover some great
ideas to help you create a warm and loving family.
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 19
 “It was the right decision
for me.”

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common irregular heartbeat condition. Arlene
Valley Health System has a dedicated center for treating it, called The Confronted atrial fibrillation
Snyder Center for Comprehensive Atrial Fibrillation. We don’t simply treat
AFib — we provide evidence-based care that emphasizes overall health.
Here’s Arlene’s story.

Arlene is a wife, mother and fiber artist — expressing her creativity through knitting,
crocheting and spinning her own yarn. When Arlene was diagnosed with AFib, she
decided to have doctors keep an eye on her condition. Over the years, the effects
of AFib made every part of her life challenging. When she didn’t even have the energy
to be creative, she knew she had to do something.
See how Arlene’s choice to seek treatment at Valley helped restore her creativity
at MyStory.ValleyHealth.com. Or, to reach the Snyder Center, call 201-447-8291.

20 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN • FEBRUARY 2019 20
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