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Archives for 2019

Archives for 2019

Great Gifts for Dear Old Dad

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Fathers-Day

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and the time has come once again to begin searching for a gift for dear old dad. Father’s Day gift shoppers have long since abandoned the notion that a new necktie is what dad really wants, but finding a gift that expresses your love and appreciation for the old man can still prove somewhat challenging.

Oftentimes, the best gifts are the ones that fulfill a need or want, and Father’s Day gifts are no exception. The following are a handful of Father’s Day gift ideas for dads whose hobbies run the gamut.

The Sports Nut

Dads who can’t get enough of their favorite teams would no doubt appreciate some new gear or even tickets to see their favorite teams play. Since 1999, Staten Island has been home to the minor league team, the Staten Island Yankees. If you opt to buy tickets to a ballgame, make it a family affair, as dad would no doubt appreciate an afternoon at the ballpark with his kids and/or grandkids. For a father who no longer lives in the market where his teams play, consider purchasing a streaming service or television package that allows him to see his favorite team no matter where he’s living.

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The Movie Mogul

Some dads simply can’t get enough of the silver screen, and a streaming service that allows dad to watch many of his favorite movies on demand from the comforts of home might make the perfect gifts for film-loving fathers. Services like Netflix and Amazon Prime offer hundreds of titles, and monthly or yearly subscriptions cost relatively little money. If Dad is the type who prefers seeing movies on the big screen, gift certificates redeemable at a local movie theater is a welcomed treat.

The Outdoorsman

Fathers who love the great outdoors might appreciate some new camping gear, a new fishing pole or even some comfortable hiking boots. When shopping for the outdoorsman in your life, consider which outdoor activity is his favorite (i.e., boating, fishing, kayaking, etc.) and try to find the latest useful gadget or newest product made for such enthusiasts. If you don’t share the same passion for the great outdoors and are hesitant to buy something you’re unsure about, a gift certificate to an outdoorsman or sporting goods store will suffice.

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The Doting Grandfather

Some men simply want to spend more time with family, especially grandfathers who never tire of afternoons with their grandchildren. If dad has retired and moved away, a trip to see his grandkids might make the ideal gift this Father’s Day. Arrange the dates with mom so you are not surprising dad with a trip at a time when he already has plans, and make sure to schedule some fun activities for those days when dad is in town.

Father’s Day is a time each year when dads are told how much they are loved and appreciated. This year, a gift that implies both those sentiments is sure to make dad smile.

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Miles and Miles of Milestones

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What doctors and child development experts refer to as “developmental milestones” are just specific things that most children can do by a certain age. Children reach milestones in many areas – in how they play, learn, speak, and act. These milestones act as checkpoints in a child’s development and give parents and professionals a general idea of what to expect your child to be able to do at a given age.  From the very start, young children are aware of their surroundings and interested in exploring them.  Even from early infancy, babies are active learners, gathering and organizing knowledge about their world and learning about themselves.

All children develop at their own pace, so it is impossible to tell exactly when your child will learn a new skill, but developmental milestones will serve as a guide to indicate when particular skills are generally achieved. There is a “range of normal limits” for reaching milestones, and during this timeframe professionals can predict when most children will learn different sets of skills.

Milestones develop in a sequential fashion which means that a child will need to develop some skills before he or she can develop another. For example, children must learn to sit before they can learn to stand. Each milestone that a child acquires builds on the last milestone achieved. Not reaching a milestone at all, or not reaching one within the range of normal limits, can be indicative of a developmental delay in a particular area.

There are different types of developmental milestones – physical (fine and gross motor), cognitive, social/emotional and communication/language skills.

Physical milestones

pertain to the development of both gross (large) and fine motor skills. The large motor skills are usually the first to develop in a young child and are used in sitting, rolling over, crawling, standing and walking. The fine motor skills develop later and require greater precision for tasks such as picking up small objects (like Cheerios), and holding spoons and crayons.

Read Next | 5 Milestones Kids Should Ideally Hit Before Kindergarten

Cognitive milestones

refer to the child’s ability to think, to learn and to solve problems. Very young babies learn by tracking things as they move with their eyes, and by turning towards sounds that they hear. Slightly older babies learn about cause and effect – for example, that pressing a button on a toy makes it light up and make noise. By the time a child is 2 years old, he or she can usually point to pictures in a book and label the picture, while a 4 year-old can be expected to have basic counting skills.

Social and emotional milestones

pertain to a child’s ability to express their own emotions and to respond to the social interactions they have with other people. For example, a 6 month-old child should begin to recognize familiar faces and a 2 year-old should be starting to play with other children.

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Communication and language milestones

refer to the child’s verbal and non-verbal communication skills. For example, a 1 year-old may be waving bye-bye while a 5 year-old may be speaking in complex sentences and telling simple stories.

What if my child does not meet a developmental milestone?

Remember that that each child is an individual and may meet developmental milestones a little earlier or later than other children his or her age. It is important for parents to remember that development is a process and NOT a race, and parents do not need to “rush” their child to the next milestone. It is also important for parents to remember that developmental milestones are guidelines and NOT deadlines. However, if you feel that your child has not met one or more milestones within the appropriate range of time, do not hesitate to ask a professional about your concerns. Your child’s doctor, a pediatric nurse, a child psychologist, or behavior specialist are all trained in child development. There are also many other child specialists who are trained in specific areas of development who can be consulted for help about your child’s development. These include speech pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, and audiologists.  If you are concerned that your child may not be meeting his or her developmental milestones, you should talk to your pediatrician or call 311 for more information on the Early Intervention Program in NYC, which is available to help children from birth through age 2 who may be experiencing developmental delays.

By Helen E. Murphy, Ph.D., BCBA-D for Thursday’s Child, Inc.

three kids at preschool
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2018 Summer Reading Programs

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It’s no easy task to keep your kids reading regularly (or at all)  once school is out for  summer. While some kids are natural readers, others may need a little extra motivation to crack open a book during the break. So here’s a list of reading programs that offer up incentives for logging some serious summertime reading hours.

NYPL Summer Reading 2018 – Libraries host books clubs all summer long, and individual library branches each throw their own Summer Reading Kickoff Parties. Here’s the 2018 lineup for the Staten Island library branches:

Dongan Hills Library • June 12, 3:30pm
Born To Read! Library Rock! Born To Read is a Bruce Springsteen-like high energy performance about why libraries rock! The show engages children with songs, comedy, bubbles, music technology and is crafted to inclusive for children of all ages including children on the Autism Spectrum. The show is a great time for parents, teachers and caregivers to have fun at the same time. Presented by Turtle Dance Music.

Great Kills Library • June 21, 3:30pm
Our shows incorporate sing-a-longs, movement, imagination and dramatic play. All of the songs inspire immediate participation. The children will grow like trees, sing like birds and dance like robots. Filled with non-stop action and hip-shaking music, the children and families will be thrilled! Best for ages 0-8 years old with parent/caregiver. Presented by Preschool of Rock.

Huguenot Library • June 19, 3:30pm
Whole new set of games! Just as fun as the first one! Includes small prizes for all the kids who attend! For children of all ages. Presented by Pete and Chris.

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Mariner’s Harbor Library • June 28, 3:30pm
Whole new set of games! Just as fun as the first one! Includes small prizes for all the kids who attend! For children of all ages. Presented by Pete and Chris

New Dorp Library • June 28, 1pm
Music and Movement celebrating NYC history, parks, people, and, of course, Urban Cowpokes! Whimsical and musical, fun for children ages 0-8 with their parents and grandparents who will love the playful lyrics and “New Yorkified” adaptations of the classic cowboy songs of the silver screen. Hopalong Andrew adapts the classic cowboy songs to reflect life as an urban cowpoke. This program’s built-in activities to encourage participation and interaction, creating a fun and positive space to play, sing and rhythm training.

Port Richmond Library • June 28, 1pm
Come to the Port Richmond Library and join us for our Summer Reading Kick Off Celebration. Enjoy a Balloon Sculpture Giveaway, Children’s Craft, Face Painting, Music Challenge, Refreshments, & Raffle Giveaways 1 PM: Children’s Craft & Raffle Tickets 2 PM: Balloon Sculptures & Face Painting 3 PM: Music Challenge & PIZZA Party 4 PM: RAFFLE Giveaways!

Richmond Town Library • June 26, 3pm
Born To Read! Library Rock! Born To Read is a Bruce Springsteen-like high energy performance about why libraries rock! The show engages children with songs, comedy, bubbles, music technology and is crafted to inclusive for children of all ages including children on the Autism Spectrum. The show is a great time for parents, teachers and caregivers to have fun at the same time. Presented by Turtle Dance Music.

South Beach Library • June 15, 2:30pm
Encounter hawks, owls, falcons or other species up close as we explore the adaptations of these winged wonders and examine the mechanics behind bird flight! Touch raptor artifacts such as talons, skulls, and feathers. A lucky volunteer may even get to help with some of the demonstrations. Recommended for ages 5 and older. Limit to 25-75 participants only. Presented by New Canaan Nature Center.

St. George Library • June 26, 1pm
Get your dancing shoes on and get ready to celebrate summer with a fabulous Summer Dance Party featuring the limbo, freeze dance and so much more. Mr. Patrick will supply the music, the silly puppets and the Hawaiian leis; all you have to do is dance and be ready for some fabulous fun! Best for babies 0-10 years old with their parent/caregiver. Presented by Music with Patrick.

Stapleton Library • June 7, 10am-5pm
A full day of celebrations featuring: Preschool Storytime, The Dewey Decibels (Stapleton Library Band), Welcome Ceremony, Art Event, The Mighty String Demons Musical Performance, Author Event with Eric Velasquez, Bobaloo’s Music and Storytelling Performance, The Art of Beatboxing, Music & Jam Session with Caroline Cutroneo, The Music, Bubble, and Comedy Show: Born to Read! Libraries Rock, and The Amazing World of Animals.

Todt Hill/Westerleigh Library • June 12, 4pm
This Summer we’ll bring families on an out-of-this-world experience where we teach new vocabulary related to Jungle Animals, Body Parts, Making New Friends, Fruits, and Going to the Beach!!! The curriculum is fun and engaging for kids of all ages and their parents. All teachers are native Spanish speakers who play guitar, percussion, and use puppets to teach in the most engaging way! Live music is the best way to learn! Families get to bond through an intergenerational bubble dance party extravaganza at the end of each class. And it is so much more than just a language program!!! Bilingual Birdies celebrates Latin culture in a time that is very important to embrace diversity.

Tottenville Library • June 6, 4pm
Born To Read! Library Rock! Born To Read is a Bruce Springsteen-like high energy performance about why libraries rock! The show engages children with songs, comedy, bubbles, music technology and is crafted to inclusive for children of all ages including children on the Autism Spectrum. The show is a great time for parents, teachers and caregivers to have fun at the same time. Presented by Turtle Dance Music

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West New Brighton Library • June 18, 3:30pm
Whole new set of games! Just as fun as the first one! Includes small prizes for all the kids who attend! For children of all ages. Presented by Pete and Chris

Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm.
Click here for hours and locations of all Staten Island Library branches.

NYPL Build a Better World Through Reading Summer Reading Challenge – Kids can write a book review for a chance to see the Yankees, meet a player, and take a bow on the field at Yankee Stadium! Deadline July 31

Staten Island Borough President’s Summer Reading Challenge
Stay tuned for more info!

Total Fitness Challenge
Stay tuned for more info!

Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program – Kids fill out the Summer Reading Journal and earn a free book from Barnes and Noble Reading Journal List.

Scholastic A Magical Summer of Reading Summer Reading Challenge – Kids can read and log minutes all summer, unlock stories and earn rewards, enter to win free books, and help set a new reading world record.

Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards – Kids win 10 free tokens for filling out the reading rewards calendar at Chuck E. Cheese.

Sylvan Book Adventures – Kids can read books, take quizzes, and earn prizes for their reading success.

Reading Rewards – Parents can set up their own Reading Rewards program to get their kids reading. Kids read and log their minutes, and parents can decide the perfect reward for reading. The site offers up ideas for for rewards like a day out with mom or a movie with a friend.

Food Network’s Chopped is Casting Kids of All Ages!

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Chopped-logo

How would you like to see your child compete in a hugely popular cooking show on TV? The Food Network is now casting the most talented kid chefs around the country!

Does your kid cook like a professional chef? Food Network is in search of young culinary masterminds between the ages of 9 and 17 who have what it takes to compete on Chopped. If your child is a culinary prodigy that can take the heat in the kitchen and the competition, then complete the application today.

Click here for more information.

Good luck! We know the young chefs of Staten Island chefs will “chop” the competition!

Kids’ Yoga

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YOGA

Your child might not be old enough to correctly pronounce “Namaste,” but she’s probably old enough to enjoy the benefits of practicing yoga. Today, yoga is no longer just for adults. In fact, it has become all the rage among kids as young as preschoolers. Here are just some reasons why yoga is awesome for preschoolers:

Strengthens Growing Body – Children are born with an innate flexibility. Yoga taps into their flexibility, while increasing a child’s strength as their muscles grow.

Enhances Concentration – Kid’s yoga differs slightly. Some poses are fast-paced, while others are slow. This teaches children self-control, while enhancing their focus and awareness.

Body Awareness – Yoga poses vary from balancing, strengthening and twisting. All of these simultaneously teach kids about their body and how it moves.

Sparks Imagination – Child yoga often focuses on themes that transport a child to a tropical paradise like a “Hawaiian Vacation” and “African Jungle.” Children are having fun, while expressing their creative side and learning about different cultures.

This information was provided by Ashley Spicer, creator of FLYAROO Fitness. Click here to learn more about Ashley and FLYAROO Fitness.

Breastfeeding Benefits & Back to Work Routines

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Nature designed human milk especially for human babies, and it has many advantages over formula. Your milk contains just the right balance of nutrients, contained in a form most easily used by the baby’s immature body systems. Medical authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, strongly recommend breastfeeding. International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Carol Olsen offers guidance to expectant mothers, “I have counseled mothers for over thirty years, explaining the many reasons why breast milk is the best milk for babies. Breast milk provides the perfect mix of vitamins, protein, and fat – everything your baby needs to grow. And it’s provided in a form more easily digested than infant formula.”

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

  • Breast milk contains antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria.
  • Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk of having asthma or allergies.
  • The physical closeness, skin-to-skin touching, and eye contact help your baby bond with you and feel secure.
  • Breastfed infants are more likely to gain the right amount of weight as they grow rather than become overweight children.
  • The AAP says breastfeeding also plays a role in the prevention of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).

Ms. Olsen adds, “Babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea. They also have fewer hospitalizations and trips to the doctor.”

There are also many benefits to mothers. She continues, “Breastfeeding burns extra calories, so it can help you lose pregnancy weight faster. It releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps your uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may reduce uterine bleeding after birth.”

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Returning to Work while Nursing

Many mothers find they maintain milk production more easily if they breastfeed before showering or getting ready for work and then breastfeed again just before leaving the baby with the care provider.

If possible, develop a pumping routine based on when the baby would normally breastfeed, especially when first returning to work. However, you, your baby, and your milk production will adjust to a new routine if you are able to pump often enough. Many mothers do find pumping sessions go more quickly when they are able to pump at about the same time each day.

Plan to breastfeed your baby as soon as you are back together. Ask your care provider to try not to feed your baby for 1 to 2 hours before you arrive. It may help to call the care provider when you are ready to leave work so he or she knows when you are on your way.

You may need to arrange your evening schedule so you can spend more time with your baby when you get home. Breastfeeding more frequently in the evenings and on weekends can help you better maintain milk production. And, you and your baby will enjoy the time together after separation.

The first few days or weeks after you return to work may be difficult until you and your baby develop a new routine. You can expect a period of adjustment as your body and your baby respond to the change. Some mothers experience a decrease in milk production the first week they return to work due to the stress and changes in schedule. If this does occur, it should increase with frequent pumping sessions. Continue to breastfeed your baby as often as possible when not at work.

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Support at Work

Employer support will be beneficial to successfully continuing breastfeeding. Discuss your plan to continue to breastfeed, and your need to pump or express breast milk during the workday, with your employer when you are pregnant or before you return to work. Be sure your employer understands that continued breastfeeding, and providing your milk by pumping at work, are not just good for your baby–they also are good for the company. Evidence indicates that employer support for continued breastfeeding, and the breast-pumping breaks it requires, results in fewer employee absences and increased worker productivity.

Let your employer know that frequent workday breast-pumping breaks do not continue indefinitely. The number will decrease during the second half of your baby’s first year, as he or she develops and eats more solid foods.

“Motherhood can be extremely stressful for new moms. Not only are you healing from labor and often sleep deprived, but you are now solely responsible for a new life. It is an overwhelming time, but trust in nature. Once you learn the proper techniques including guiding your baby to latch properly, breastfeeding will become easier. Building your confidence is so important. Know that you can do this,” shares Ms. Olsen.

Talk with your doctor or a lactation consultant to discuss breastfeeding and what is best for your baby and you. Resources are available on Staten Island – Richmond University Medical Center’s Lactation Support Center offers consultation services and resources for new mothers having difficulties with breastfeeding. For more information, call 718-818-4375.

This month’s Ask the Doctor column is written by Carol Olsen RN, BSN, IBCLC at Richmond University Medical Center. Mrs. Olsen, a former neonatal intensive care unit nurse, works at Richmond University Medical Center as a Lactation Consultant.

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