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OurChildren

Our
About

Useful Information
for the Next Generation
of Jewish Families

Happy
Chanukah
Celebrate with Us!

After-School Delights
Tackling Tummy Trouble

Supplement to The Jewish Standard January 2017

AOC-2
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T:13

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2 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

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OurChildren
About

January 2017

Family Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Winter Vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16


The family that plays together

The getaway when its cold

Tummy Woes.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Getting to the Goals . . . . . . . . . . 18


When a stomachache is more

Helping our children reach them

Teen Chef Sensation. . . . . . . . . . . 7 Raising Them Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19


Teanecks Eitan Bernaths career heats up

Always thinking of lifting the children

GRAND
OPENING

Celebrate Chanukah. . . . . . . . . . . 8 Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..20


The cutest togs, funkiest menorahs, and more

Pictures of our children

Generation G.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Top Choices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21


A veritable urban Noahs Ark

Great picks for January

Keeping the Balance . . . . . . . . . 11 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22


The juggle and struggle of it all

Things to do this month

What Not to Say . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Simchas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..23


Helping our children with our words

Celebrating our milestones

A Unique Childrens Clothing Boutique


Newborn to Boys and Girls 16
Closter Plaza
87 Vervalen St., Closter
(201) 660-7880

Schools and More . . . . . . . . . . . 14


Loads of listings in our area

On cover: Rebecca Shara Jay, 3, daughter of Rachel (Chananie) and Adam Jay of Springfield.

MissionStatement
About Our Children is designed to help Jewish families in our area live healthy, positive lives that make the most of
the resources available to them. By providing useful, current, accurate information, this publication aims to guide
parents to essential information on faith, education, the arts, events, and child-raising in short, everything that
todays Jewish family, babies to grandparents, needs to live life to the fullest in North Jersey and Rockland County.

AdvisoryBoard

Dr. Annette Berger, Psy.D.

Jane Calem Rosen

Psychologist, Teaneck

Marketing and Communications Specialist

Michelle Brauntuch, MS,CCLS

Barry Weissman, MD

Child Life Specialist, Englewood Hospital, Englewood

Pediatrician, Hackensack and Wyckoff

Hope Eliasof

Cheryl Wylen

Marriage and Family Therapist, Midland Park

Director of Adult Programs and Cultural Arts


YM-YWHA of North Jersey, Wayne

Howard Prager, DC, DACBSP

Holistic Chiropractor, Oakland

About

OurChildren

James L. Janoff

Natalie Jay

Heidi Mae Bratt

Peggy Elias
Janice Rosen
Brenda Sutcliffe

Publisher
Editor

Deborah Herman

Art Director

Advertising Director

Slovie Jungreis-Wolff
Denise Morrison Yearian
Ed Silberfarb
Adina Soclof

Contributing Writers

Account Executives

About Our Children is published 11 times a year by the New Jersey/Rockland Jewish Media Group,
1086 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666; telephone: 201-837-8818; fax: 201-833-4959.;
e-mail: AboutOC@aol.com.

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

AOC-4

musings from the editor


S

now. Its not political. Not controversial. Not connected to any


religious affiliation. Its just white.
And cold.
And yet, it evokes strong emotion.
Ah! The picturesque white stuff! The
pristine blanket! The twinkle at night!
The quiet!
Oy! The digging of the car! The
slowed-down commute! The wet mess!
The pain!
How I feel about snow, I suppose,
depends on the day, and on which
side of the windowsill Im on. It also
depends on whether I need to brave
the weather, or whether I can enjoy it.
But tis the season. And if we have
a northeast winter, I would say that
not having conferred with the Farmers Almanac we will see some snow
this year.
My first real snow memory would
be in first grade. We were coming
home from school on the bus, which
dropped us off on the corner. It just
snowed and the block of single and
two-family homes looked beautiful.
The small patch of lawn in front of our

house looked especially


beautiful. In fact, it looked
perfect. It was the proverbial blanket of white.
I loved the way it looked
so much, I wanted it to
look that forever. But that
was not to be, because my
friend and neighbor, Linda, thought to tramp on
the lawn, and destroy its
perfection with her little
footprints.
Please come off, I asked. No
movement off. Come off the lawn,
PLEASE, I beseeched. Not a move.
Ok, then, I thought. And here, dear
reader, is where it becomes a bit notso-nice. In wanting to preserve my
lawn, I had to remove Linda, who was
now stomping up a storm to spite me.
So, with my little first-grade schoolbag, I swatted her. She got off.
I learned an early lesson then that
violence did not pay. The lawn was
already messed up. Besides, Lindas
mother yelled at me for what I did.
Snowy days were always a glory

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SCHOOL

when the schools closed.


It was like being sick,
but so much better because we werent sick!
We stayed at home and
watched television. And
later, we got to go out
and play. That would
mean snowball fights and
attempts at building a
snowman. When we were
done, wed come back
inside to be greeted by a hot cup of
chocolate milk, a grilled cheese sandwich, and bowl of tomato soup.
Later, the snow became an even
better friend when I took up skiing.
I came to the sport later in life,
but because my instructor was so encouraging, telling me that I had naturally strong ski legs, I took to it with
a passion. That winter, I got to shush
the slopes of the White Mountains, the
Green Mountains, the mountains in
western Massachusetts, and even the
mountains in Canada.
But it wasnt until I had the chance
to ski in the Alps that the snow was

really my BFF! I got the chance to


ski from Switzerland to France for
lunch. I was on a travel assignment,
and while I was placed with the beginner group (dont think that all that skiing put me on black diamond trails!),
we slowly found our way into France.
I remember how seamless the border
crossing was. There were no guards,
no trumpets, no big deal. There was
just a flag to indicate that wed crossed
the border. Nevertheless, it remains a
great snow memory for me.
Sadly, adult responsibility has
overtaken me and the beauty of snow
has eluded me. But perhaps this season, when the snow starts to fall, and
even if the commute gets complicated,
and the car needs digging, and the
street looks wet-messy, I can remember those lovely snowy days and the
pleasures that it brought, and simply
enjoy.
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4 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

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Survival of the Family Fittest this Winter


DENISE MORRISON YEARIAN

e may be in the throes of winter


but that doesnt mean you have
to toss aside family fitness. Following are ten tips on how you and your
family can stay physically fit and enjoy
time together during this frigid season.

Plan for success


Choose activities everyone can participate in and make it convenient, simple
and fun. Get your childrens input as to
what they want to do so there is some
buy in. Also make sure you participate.
Children will have more fun if the parents get in on the act.

Rough and tumble zone


If possible, create an indoor active zone
where you and your kids can be active. See what you can shift around in a
spare room or the basement so you can
move freely without tripping over wires
or knocking something down. Or put
on coats and move the cars out of the
garage. This will allow you to do some
motion activities such as jumping jacks,
jump rope, hula hoop and hopscotch,
as well as formal exercises such as

SSBC_10 x 6.6_Discover_NewLogo.indd 1

squats, lunges and sit ups. Keep the area


dedicated so its always available when
youre ready to be active.

Board em busters
Make a list of fun exercises you and your
kids can do in a given week, post them
on a board in a visible location, then
each day have everyone choose one or
more activity they want to perform. Vary
time and repetition according to age.
When an activity is complete give your
child a sticker to put on the list. At the
end of each week, offer a reward to keep
everyone motivated

go ice skating,
bowling or take a winter bike hike.

Go pro
Tweak professional games so you can
play them inside. Have a round of basketball with a soft foam ball or wad of
newspaper and a basket. Try indoor
bowling with ten soda bottles, each partially filled with water or sand. Set in a
triangular shape and then knock over
with a medium-sized ball. Tennis anyone? Stretch a string across the room,
tape it to the walls, blow up a balloon
and use poster board squares for rackets. Or play indoor volleyball.

Tone up
Every day items found around the house
can help your family tone up. Use milk
jugs partially filled with water or sand
to strengthen your chest, shoulders and
arms. Make the bottom step a stair stepper to build your leg muscles and cardiovascular system. Step on the waistband
of old pantyhose and pull up to work biceps, triceps and shoulders.

Color my wintry world


One fun and easy game your family
will enjoy is an outdoor ice cube hunt.
Make different colored ice cubes and
hide them in your yard or at the park.
Then bundle up and let the game begin!
Create a color point system to determine the winner or whoever finds the
most gets a prize. You can even do it
at night with a flashlight. The best part
is the ice cubes wont melt so you can
stick them in the freezer and have the
hunt all over again.

a mound of snow or a few bricks. Fill


several buckets with water (you dont
need much), pour it over the tarp and
let it freeze. When a thin layer of ice
forms, put on your boots or sneakers
and have a family skate.

Frolicking fitness tag


It doesnt have to be warm outside to
play tag. With this version base isnt
an object, its an activity. Players run
around and avoid being tagged by performing a simple, predetermined exercise such as ten jumping jacks, fifteen
squats or twenty hops on one foot.

Cold war capers

Skating on thin ice

A fun thing to do in the snow is play


tug of war. Dig parallel trenches that
are three- to four-feet long and mound
up the snow in the middle. Divide your
family into two teams then have each
team stand in a line perpendicular to the
mound on either side of the snow. The
first team to pull their opponent into the
snow bank wins.

If there is snow on the ground and


its below freezing, create a backyard
ice skating rink. Place a tarp over the
snow and hold down the edges with

Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of parenting magazines, a mother and a
grandmother.

8/23/16 3:16 PM

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

AOC-6

Chanukah
Gift
Giveaway
Random drawing from all entries
received by December 30th, 2016

Chanukah

Build
A
Bear

Yumbox
Leakproof
Lunchbox

Planet
Matzo Ball
Chanukah
and

Passover
DVDs
I got you
SOMETHING

Baking
Mold &
Recipe
Book

Shalom
Sesame
Complete
Series
DVDs

Midrash
Manicures
Chanukah
Onesie
6 mo. size

Doodle
Quest
6 and up

Strike
a
Pose
10 and up

Name _________________________________________________________
Ages of Children ________________________________________________
Street _________________________________________________________
City/State/Zip ___________________________________________________
Phone ________________________________________________________
Email _________________________________________________________
Mail to Jewish Standard, 1086 Teaneck Rd, Teaneck, NJ 07666 or fax to 201-833-4959 by Dec. 30.
I authorize you to add my name to the Jewish Standard e-mail blast and newsletter list.

6 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

OurChildren
About

When Tummy Woes


Are of Great Concern
H E I D I M A E B RAT T

earing my tummy hurts from a


youngster can strike fear in the
heart of a parent. Stomachaches,
though, are a common complaint among
children, and most are completely normal. They usually suggest that a child ate
too much or needs to go to the bathroom.
But how do you know when tummy troubles signal something more serious?
About Our Children consulted with
pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Diana Volvert of the Valley Medical Group for some
guidance on the matter.
About Our Children: When does a
common tummy ache become something
of greater concern?
Dr. Diana Volpert: Abdominal pain
is one of the most common complaints
that children present with. In the majority
of cases it can be difficult to pinpoint an
exact explanation for the discomfort that
they experience. However, the absence
of a clearly defined disease does not necessarily mean that the gastrointestinal
system is functioning well. The following
signs and symptoms should prompt parents to contact their physician as soon as
possible: Significant abdominal pain with
abdominal distension or hard abdomen.
Abdominal pain that wakes up your child
from deep sleep. Vomiting dark green
stomach contents, bright red blood or
dark, coffee-ground like material. Or the
appearance of maroon or black stools.
AOC: When does a digestive complaint become an emergency?
Dr. Volpert: There are several cases
in which digestive complaints can quickly
evolve into a medical emergency. The first
of these is vomiting dark green stomach
contents. This could be a sign of intestinal obstruction, or damage to the intestinal lining, which can result in bleeding
and decreased blood supply to the gut.
Another concerning complaint is blood
in the stool. While blood in stool is not
always alarming, in large volumes it can
be a sign of oxygen loss to the intestine.
When rectal bleeding is accompanied by
severe pain medical attention should be
sought immediately. Small amounts of
blood can sometimes be seen in vomit
after several bouts of retching. However,
if blood is present in large amounts, or if
the child is experiencing chest pain, then
the child should be evaluated by a medical team member as soon as possible. Fever and severe abdominal pain associated
with movement can be a sign of severe
infection, including appendicitis. Finally,
any time a child has yellowing of the skin
or eyes, they must undergo evaluation in
a timely manner.
AOC: What are the most common

stomach/gastric problems that face children? That face teenagers?


Dr. Volpert: The most common gastrointestinal disorders in infants are: gastroesophageal reflux, colic, gas, and milk
protein allergy. As children grow, their
complaints gradually change. In toddlers
and preadolescents the most common
reasons for visits to gastroenterologist include: constipation and stool withholding,
feeding difficulties and failure to thrive,
diarrhea secondary to excessive juice
intake (known as toddlers diarrhea), involuntary soiling, and celiac disease. Adolescents most commonly present to gastroenterologists with: gastroesophageal
reflux, constipation, lactose intolerance,
celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome,
and inflammatory bowel disease.
AOC: How does stress impact gut
health for youngsters?
Dr. Volpert: There are many different
areas of the brain involved in the sensation of abdominal pain. At least one of
these areas relates to the intensity of the
pain, while other areas relate to memories and emotions. Because of this interconnection, the perception of pain can be
affected by emotions or life experiences.
Studies have shown an association between anxiety/depression and abdominal
pain. The social consequences for older
children with bellyaches who get into this
cycle can be demoralizing. Parents can
help by being compassionate and never
doubting the childs pain. With that said,
parents should also encourage the child
to maintain their usual daily routine.
Dr. Volpert: When is it time to see a
stomach specialist?
AOC: A pediatrician will provide effective advice and treatment in most
cases, but, if the issue does not resolve
or worsens, then it is time to see a gastroenterologist. In infants such situations
would include persistent fussiness, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, or poor weight gain.
In toddlers, preadolescents and adolescents the red flags are recurrent vomiting,
chronic abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, blood in stool, loss of appetite, and
weight loss.
AOC: How can a parent prevent stomach problems from occurring?
Dr. Volpert: Never ignore the childs
pain, and ensure that evaluation is done
in a timely manner. If the cause is found
to be functional, its important for the
parents to emphasize maintenance of
daily routine. In cases of organic disease,
parents should make sure the child is
compliant with the gastroenterologists
instructions, especially as they relate to
medications and diet.
Heidi Mae Bratt is the editor of About Our
Children.

AOC-7
OurChildren
About

Teaneck Teen Chefs Career


Starts to Cook
From Chopped to Rising Star, Eitan Bernath Brings Much to the Table
H E I D I M A E B RAT T

hen hes not studying Gemara or doing geometry, Eitan


Bernath might be whipping
up Chanukah sugar cookies for Breakstones Butter or creating jelly donuts
for Manischewitz.
In fact, he has.
The Teaneck teen chef, who two
years ago was the memorable kippahclad contestant on the Food Networks
Chopped, today is busy juggling a dual
curriculum at The Frisch School, and a
budding and busy culinary career, which
includes his weekly food blog and gigs
with some major companies.
Several companies, including Breakstones Butter, Manischewitz, and others, have tapped the affable 14-year-old
freshman to use their products in recipes that he creates. Eitan then posts the
recipes on his own blog, or, the company

uses them in their own media campaigns.


While Eitan has been busy with his
own weekly blog, creating and photographing new recipes, he did a stint
last summer at the Susie Fishbein and
Friends Culinary Institute at Camp Nesher, internships at local restaurants,
and took a pastry course at the International Culinary Center in New York City.
In addition, he contributes to a local
magazine and will have a monthly column, Easy Ethnic with Eitan with the
launch of a new kosher food website,
kosher.com. He also has been invited
by kosher food celebrity Jamie Geller to
join her as a guest on some of her upcoming videos.
Its surreal, said his mother, Sabrina Bernath. The opportunities that
are being offered to him as a 14 year old,
and the acceptance that he is getting not
only from the kosher foodie community,
but from the larger community, said

A Recipe for Chanukah


Fried in oil is the mantra for Chanukah dishes. Here is one of Eitans recipes that fits the bill for the holiday, or
for any time of the year.
Cornflake Crusted Chicken Fingers

Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
8 chicken tenders
1 cup flour
2 eggs
2 cups cornflakes
Oil for frying
For the Mayo:
cup mayonnaise
2 tsp sriracha
Preheat the oil in a medium sized pot to

350 degrees Fahrenheit.


Place the flour, eggs, and cornflakes into
three separate bowls.
To coat the chicken, dip the chicken in
the flour, then egg, then flour again, then
egg again, and then finally the cornflakes.
Once all the chicken has been coated,
fry them a few at a time for 5 minutes
or until golden brown and cooked all the
way through.
Place the cooked chicken pieces on a
plate with a paper towel to drain of all
the oil.

For the Spicy Mayo:


In a small bowl combine the mayo and
sriracha.

Mrs. Bernath, who chairs the


math department at Frisch.
We are so happy for him.
Most recently, Eitan
received The Rising Star
Award from the organizers
of Kosherfeast at its annual
fete at Le Marais restaurant
in Manhattan. While his
parents, Jason and Sabrina,
were aware that he was receiving the award, it was a
surprise to Eitan. The annual
collegial event draws several
bold-named kosher chefs
who blog.
Hes a rock star, said
The Aussie Gourmet Naomi
Nachman, who presented
Eitan with the award. Hes
amazing, and so mature.
People dont even realize
that hes 14 years old.
Kosher chef Levana Eitan Bernath and his parents, Jason and Sabrina Bernath, at
Kirschenbaum, a pioneer of Kosherfeast.
kosher gourmet cuisine, is also a fan.
based Joseph Jacobs Advertising agenWhat impresses me most about Eicy, said he sought out Eitan for the Chatan is that even though hes exploring
nukah campaign for Breakstones Butter.
just like all other kids, he seems to have
The company was interested in making
found his calling. Indeed, hes a natural
its time-honored product appealing to
in the kitchen. I cant resist adding hes
a younger demographic, and Eitan was
so impossibly cute. And, even though
perfect in many ways. He filled the
Eitan seems unusually talented for his
niche nicely, but he doesnt step away
young years, theres not a single conceitfrom the heritage of the brand, Rosened bone in his body.
feld said.
I always say, pay attention to kids,
Eitan is young, hes energetic, pasand take them seriously, Ms. Kirschensionate about food, and very authentic,
baum said. They are tomorrows stars.
said Mr. Rosenfeld. You just get a sense
Eitan could be a real spokesman for his
that hes real.
peers. Fun dishes made with serious
Likewise, the folks at Manischewitz
and healthy ingredients? Great messought Eitans qualities of passion and
sage for kosher cooks and mothers of
energy and his youth.
picky children.
His enthusiasm is contagious, said
Sara Stromer, assistant brand manager
For Eitan, he is just doing what he
of Newark-based Manischewitz. Hes
loves, and he pushes himself to the
very mature, and he really knows what
challenge, like committing to a weekly
he is doing.
blog. Every Sunday, he wakes up and
Using one of the Manischewitz mixcreates a new recipe that he posts on
es, he created donuts and came up with
social media.
a way to use its grape juice to make jelly.
Food blogging has really helped me
The company has launched a new soprogress in my cooking, Eitan said.
cial media campaign to target a youngWhen it comes to balancing schooler demographic.
work and food work he admits that he
As for Eitan, the busier he gets, the
has to be smart about it. He uses his
better, as he wants to keep growing.
free periods at Frisch to answer a client
Age doesnt determine what you
or do other food-related work, all while
can accomplish, Eitan said, just how
keeping abreast of his busy academlong youve had to accomplish it.
ic schedule.
It helps to have my phone and computer in school, he said.
Heidi Mae Bratt is the editor of About
Elie Rosenfeld, CEO of Teaneck
Our Children.
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

AOC-8*

CO M P I L E D BY H E I D I M A E B RAT T

Celebrate Chanukah

A Latke Lover Here

A shirt that expresses affection like no other. Available at www.zazzle.com.

Hebrew Bears

Dov Babies are bean bag bears. They are the only bears by Sally Winey (creator
of Beanie Babies) to be given Hebrew names. The Dov Babies are named Dov, Aish,
Fire; Shalom, Peace; and Emmes, Truth. They are available at LuLu Belle, 97 Vervalen
Street, Closter, 201-660-7880, lulubelleofcloster.com.

All In One

This Kidkraft Wooden Chanukah set includes a kid-friendly


menorah, dreidel, coins, latkes, spatula, pan and bag. Everything
your child needs for Chanukah play. Available at www.amazon.
com.

Fire Away

This fire truck menorah, equipped with a Dalmatian and a fire hydrant, will add lots of light to your
holiday. Available at Weinrebs Book & Judaica, 177 W. Englewood Ave., 201-530-7588.

Yummy, Yummy

Make your own gingerbread menorah, and then display it eight


days. Or eat it right away. All ingredients in the kit are kosher
certified. Available at Modern Tribe. www.moderntribe.com

8 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

Emoji Every Night


Mazel Toes on the Holiday

Socks that make the most fabulous foot


statement of the season. Available at www.
absolutesocks.com.

Of course, Chanukah brings out happy emotions. Now light up


the chanukiah with your emoji. Available at Modern Tribe. www.
moderntribe.com

AOC-9*

Meow

This cats menorah will be the cats meow for the holiday. This fun feline find is
available at Eichlers. www.eichlers.com.

Musical Maccabee

This plush warrior is a musician at heart.


Press his tummy and he plays the dreidel
song. Comes with a book and dreidel.
www.toyveytoys.com.

Get a Leg Up on Chanukah

You can run to light your menorah, or just display


the dreidel-decorated gams. Available at www.
midrashmanicures.com.

Menorasaur Triceratops
Children of the Book

Books Make A Great Gift Always. Available At Milk & Honey


Babies, 11 Grand Ave., Englewood. 201-871-2111, Www.
milkandhoneybabies.com

Chanukah will be dino-mite with the Menorasaur


menorah! Each piece is constructed from repurposed
plastic toys, metal candle cups and clay. The
Menorasaur is sure to add Jurassic-level thrills to your
holiday celebration. www.thejewishmuseum.org.

Sensational Summers 2x7 01-17 12/5/16 11:52 AM Page 1

Saturday, January 14, 2017

The Outlets at Bergen Town Center, Paramus


Sunday, January 22, 2017

The Sheraton Parsippany, Parsippany


Sunday, January 29, 2017

Livingston Mall, Livingston

For additional Camp Fair information in Bridgewater,


Summit, Lawrenceville and Edison visit our website:

www.njcampfairs.com

www.tofutti.com

All camp fairs will run from Noon to 3:00pm.

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

AOC-10
GENERATION G

A Young Childs Version


Of Noahs Ark in the City
E D S I L B E R FA R B

ou can have one if you find


a college that will take both
you and your dog.
Thats how Joes campaign for a dog
always ended. The fact that he was only
eight years old, 10 years away from college, didnt seem to dilute his mothers
argument. It was obvious there would be
no dog in the apartment.
No dog, perhaps, but his mother
overlooked the possibility that other
creatures could fill the void. The restriction didnt seem to go beyond dogs. At
his eighth birthday party, a friend arrived with a package about the size of a
suitcase. The wrapping was torn away
to reveal a cage containing a brown and
white rodent with a nose that twitched
in an appealing way.
Its a teddy bear hamster, his
friends mother said. Then, to justify the

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10 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

choice, We picked it over a gerbil because without a tail it wouldnt look so


mouse-like.
Reaction among the adults ranged
from his mothers stunned silence to his
grandmothers remark, Thats a hostile act.
Hostile or not, it was the beginning
of Joes menagerie that would eventually
include, besides hamsters and their offspring, a herd of guinea pigs, a rabbit, a
snake and fish from every possible environment fresh water, salt water, brackish water, as well as hermit crabs.
His first concern was the hamster,
which he said was the best birthday
present ever. He named it Teddy and
got it a companion. Soon one cage could
not contain them and their offspring, so
he created a hamster village with tubes
connecting multiple cages and a treadmill to provide exercise. The complex
occupied half his room.

His mother, who


banned a dog, could
take some comfort
in knowing that hamsters didnt have to
be walked three times
a day. Unlike a dog,
though, they werent
very cuddly. To compensate for that lack
of affection, Joes animal of choice was a
guinea pig, but what
kind? Straight haired
or curly? His solution
was one of each. He soon
learned that guinea pigs
favorite activity is making
baby guinea pigs.
Even Joes mother
had to admit there is nothing quite adorable as a baby guinea pig.
Unlike many other newborn mammals,
they are not naked and grotesque. They
are fully formed with fur. Theyre like
miniature adults.
As they get older, though, unlike
hamsters theyre too big to be contained
in small cages with connecting tubes.
They need multi-gallon fish tanks that
soon occupied the remaining space in
Joes room. He still had his own bed, but
not much more. His mother began to
wonder it she got the worst of the bargain by banning a dog.
Joes father offered a practical solution sell some of the guinea pigs to
the local pet shop. It was hard to decide which ones to part with. Even Joes
mother had become attached to them,
but it was necessary to thin the herd.
The stores owner was eager to buy
these homegrown pets.
By now Joe had reached bar mitzvah
age. His Haftorah study was a necessary
distraction from his zoo, which by now
included an aquarium with exotic, beautiful tropical fish. He was visiting a friend
when he saw something hopping past
him. He did a double take and realized
it was a rabbit. Obviously that was what
was missing from his menagerie. Rabbits, however, were not easy to find.
They scanned ads in local newspapers, and found a place that had a new
litter of Netherland dwarf rabbits. After a brief visit, they were won over by
a light gray bunny with a tendency to
cling when held. What to call this benign, sweet-natured creature? Joes older brother had the perfect name Sauron, Tolkeins Lord of Evil.

Sauron wasnt confined


to a cage. He roamed the
bedroom, and, like a cat,
was liter-trained. On a
diet of rabbit chow,
alfalfa and carrots,
he outlived the
hamsters and
the
guinea
pigs. He lived
to be 14
years old, a
remarkable
age for a rabbit,
which
Joe was certain to be a
world record.
Alas, the Guinness book listed
one in New Zealand
that lived to be 18.
Joe, now in the third year of high
school would soon be looking at colleges. His mother no longer worried about
his finding a place that would accept him
and a dog. There was a new problem.
Joe had taken an interest in snakes, an
interest that required him to have one of
his own. He selected a young Caribbean
boa, a constrictor that would eat only
live prey.
He named the snake Frankie. It was
the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Joe soon learned that caring for a snake
could be complicated. Early in their relationship Frankie stopped eating. He
seemed sick, but Joe had no way to take
his temperature so he called the herpetology department of the Bronx Zoo.
Thats when he learned that snakes stop
eating when they shed their skin, which
they do periodically. In a few weeks
Frankie, with new skin, began eating
again and all was serene.
When the time came for Joe to look
at colleges, he remembered his mothers stern injunction. Would it apply to
snakes as well as dogs? She didnt ban
the snake, but would a college admissions officer think kindly of it? And what
about a potential roommate? The issue didnt arise. Joe went off to college
and his understanding father inherited
the snake.
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 information officer for the New York City Transit
Authority and editor of one of its employee
publications.

AOC-11*
OurChildren
About

The Juggle, the Struggle, the Balance of All


S LOV I E JU N G R E I S - WO L F F

alancing marriage, parenting, work,


and life responsibilities can feel like
a high-wire act. Our children need
us, our spouses expect us to be there for
them, and then there are parents, jobs,
financial pressures and daily obligations
pulling at us all at the same time. This
does not even begin to address our desire
to take care of ourselves. Carving personal time out for a gym class or quiet cappuccino in a coffee shop seems as if we
are seeking guilty pleasures.
Some nights we lie awake thinking
to ourselves that nobody in this family
is happy because each person believes I
am there more for the others and this
includes ourselves.
Here are five strategies for successfully juggling our relationships
and commitments:

Take Care of Yourself


In case of an emergency on a plane you
must first place the oxygen mask over
yourself and only then can you begin
to take care of your children. If you are
not breathing you are of no help to anyone else.

If you feel as if you are choking, your


family will feel it. Begin by taking care of
yourself. Be committed to your mental,
emotional, physical and spiritual health.
Make a plan and set real goals. Stop overlooking yourself. This is not selfish and
self-centered; it is not a guilty pleasure.
Look at it instead as giving your family
the greatest gift possible: The gift of a joyful you.

Acknowledge the Challenge


When we feel pressured we snap at the
people in our lives. Family and friends
become the most convenient targets. As
we push loved ones away, a cycle begins
where we start to feel isolated and alone.
Our relationships suffer. Those closest to
us who can help us find calm in the storm
grow distant.
Instead of getting angry with our
partners, set aside time to speak together
in a calm moment. Concentrate on your
tone and body language. Be careful not
to speak impatiently or seem standoffish.
Say, I feel like Im in a pressure cooker
right now. I realize that I may seem snappy and moody. I am feeling overwhelmed.
And while its not an excuse, it is something that is making me act out. I am in a

Boy Scout Troop 226


Bergen County's Only Jewish Boy Scout Troop

Boys ages 1117 experience the outdoors


while observing Shabbat and Kashrut

Meetings in Teaneck
Expand Personal Growth
Develop Leadership Skills
Challenging Activities

Fun Day Trips


Overnight Camping
Biking, Hiking, Canoeing
Summer Camp

For Boy Scouts please contact Daniel Chazin, Scoutmaster,


201-835-5338 or DChazin@aol.com
For Cub Scouts, boys ages 6-10, please contact
Ari Farkas at pack613info@gmail.com

bad spot and now I want to work on solutions. Show that you are recognizing
the problem instead of living as if this is
your normal.

Anticipate and Plan


Often our feelings of being overwhelmed
come from being stuck in the same difficult situation time and time again. The
children are coming home from school
all at the same time, mornings are out
of control, your spouse is having a hard
time in the office and walks through the
door in a grumpy mood. And these challenges occur each and every day. The
real surprise is why are you once again
caught unaware?
If you can anticipate that the mornings will be stressful, you can tell yourself
that you know whats coming. Understanding that your stressed partner needs
time to unwind before interacting with
you prevents you from getting bent out of
shape each night. You will feel prepared
instead of off-kilter.
Anticipation also helps you find solutions. You can work on a doable plan
instead of throwing up your hands and
feeling as if this is just not possible. If you
envision that nighttime is chaotic and

the house will be noisy when you return


home after a hard day, you are less likely
to lose it because you know what to expect the moment you walk through the

Juggle continued on page13

YOUR CHILD needs special education.


You want her to have a Jewish education.
You want him to be included.

INCLUSION by DESIGN
Serving Children

with a

Broad range

of

SpeCial needS

Special education uniquely integrated within Jewish Day Schools


Individualization Educational excellence
Meeting each childs academic, social, and emotional needs
Elementary Schools

High Schools

Adult Services

www.sinaischools.org/js 201-833-1134
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017 11

AOC-12*

y, December 11

am to 3:00 pm

OurChildren
About

Glen Rock Jewish Center

opping for all your


iving needs!

Nursery School 2 to 5 Year Olds

certified teachers
high staff to child ratio
hands-on play based
curriculum
flexible scheduling
half and full day options

extended care 7:15 am


to 6:00 pm
5 day hot lunch option
yoga and music
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Clothing
Jewelry
Judaica
ages.and MORE!
Summer Camp

small group size


air-conditioned indoor
facility

outdoor playground
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extended care available

Toddler Time

weekly sessions for


children 12-24 months
of age with parent or
caregiver

professionally-led
discussions for parents
art, music, and movement
indoor and outdoor play

Monthly Play Group

free of charge for children birth - 15 months of age

Glen Rock Jewish Center


682 Harristown Road
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
office@grjc.org/2016526624
201-652-6624
Harristown Road,grjcnursery@gmail.com
Glen Rock, NJ 07452

The Top No-Nos


When It Comes to What to Say
A D I N A S O C LO F
Who spilled the milk?
Parenting includes many different jobs chef, chauffeur and cheerleader. Dont add detective to the list.
Whodunnit questions Who spilled all the juice
on the floor and didnt clean it up? only lead to lying and accusations. Instead describe the problem and
ask for help, Oh no! Theres juice all over the floor. We
need a mop and some paper towels. You can tell the
family later, I dont know who spilled the juice and I
dont care. That person needs to remember in the future to clean up after themselves.

How was school today?


Many children have a hard time answering open-ended
questions like, What did you do in school today? They
often dont like to answer any questions at the end of
their long day. You can just give your child a warm hello
and a greeting, Great to see you
After your child has time to unwind, you can ask
some close-ended questions like, Did you color or
paint today? Was today an art or gym day? These
questions will help your child open up and talk.
You can also have everyone at dinner share the
best thing that happened to him or her that day. Some
other questions to ask, How were you brave today?
How were you kind today? How did you fail today?

Stop (twirling your hair! being so wild!)

Come Smile with Us

Direct commands are usually invitations for a power


struggle. This is especially true if you have a strong-willed
child. Not only that, there are children who have a hard
time processing the command and then actually carrying
out the command. It looks like they are being defiant, but
in actuality they are struggling to understand the directions thrown at them while curbing their behavior.
It is helpful to tell children what they can do instead
of what they cant and give them a few seconds to comply. Instead of saying, Stop twirling your hair! you can
say, Hands belong in your lap. Instead of saying, Stop
being so wild! You can say, Inside is for quiet voices
and quiet feet.

We need to go now!

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201.837.3000

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12 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

Children have a hard time leaving places they love.


Make sure to give your children, 5 to10 minute warnings before you head out. You can say, I am letting you
know we are leaving in 10 minutes. In 5 more minutes
we will start to get ready to go.

Great job!
Most parents have heard by now that that encouraging
kids by saying, Good job or You are wonderful does
not build confidence. It actually does the opposite. It
trains kids to rely on others approval instead of listening to their gut feelings. They become more tentative
about making their own decisions.
Instead we can describe what we see: You hit the
ball and ran to first base! You got into the bath and
washed yourself up! You cleared all the dishes!

You always You never


When we start our conversations with You always are
late, or You never listen we immediately put
the other person on the defensive. It is also sending a

negative message, that they are never on time and they


are not good listeners. Furthermore we are reinforcing
negative behavior because the more you point out the
negative the more negative you will get in return. The
more times I pointed out that my kids were late, not
listening or being disrespectful or non-compliant, the
more likely they would perpetuate that behavior.
Turn the above statements around by saying: I
know you know how to listen. I know we can figure
out a way to get out on time.

We dont cry about lost toys


losing the game
Crying can actually be a great stress reliever; it removes
toxins from the body that build up due to emotional
stress. It is good to let kids just cry it out and let them
know it is okay.
Yes, children cry about the silliest things, at least
to our adult minds. However, these things are important to children. Rav Yisroel Salanter said that when a
childs toy boat breaks, to him it is as if he is a merchant
and all his goods were lost at sea.
Let children cry in peace and empathize with them.
It can be so frustrating to lose your toy! You and your
team worked so hard and you really wanted to win the
game. Ironically this is what helps them deal with their
feelings. It calms them down and they can then recognize that it might not be so bad after all.

You are so smart


In documented studies, children praised in this way
have a hard time performing well academically, are
more anxious about school and shy away from challenges. Children who are told theyre smart believe
that intelligence is something you have or dont. They
figure if you have to work hard at a task it means you
are stupid. They have limited strategies to cope with
academic setbacks.
Instead we need to praise children for their effort, for working hard, persevering at a difficult task
and figuring out solutions to problems. Children who
are praised in this way are motivated to learn and will
challenge themselves academically. They feel that they
have control over their intelligence and they only have
to increase their effort to succeed at school.
Be descriptive and focus on his accomplishments:
You put effort into your book report. You read the
book, answered the questions and drew a picture for
the cover. You had it ready for the due date. Thats
called being responsible.
Adina Soclof is the director of Parent Outreach for A+
Solutions, facilitating How to Talk so Kids will Listen and
Listen so Kids will Talk and Siblings Without Rivalry workshops. She is available for speaking engagements. Check out
www.parentingsimply.com for more information.

AOC-13*

For the Love of Latkes, Just Line Up

Juggle continued from page11


door. And you can be realistic and set practical ways to find evening balance instead
of exploding.

H E I D I M A E B RAT T
Latke lovers, youre in for a treat!
Children up to 17 years old, and
adults 18 and over are invited to join
the Annual Latke Eating Contest on
Sunday, January 1, 2017. Sponsored
by the Cedar Lane Management
Group and Noahs Ark, the contest
will give potato eaters a chance to
sample some of the most creative
patties this latke-loving season.
Gourmand and entrepreneur,
Noam Sokolow, owner of Noahs
Ark and other food enterprises, said
that this years palatte of latkes is
sure to delight the palate.
In addition to the classic potato,
sweet potato and corn and zucchini
latke offerings, there will be Yukon Gold and Jerusalem artichoke
latkes, leek and porcini mushroom
latkes, zucchini and Mediterranean spiced latkes, cauliflower and
zaatar latkes, and Okinawan potato, asparagus and tarragon latkes.
Everybody makes a potato

Find Your Positive Energy

latke, said Mr. Sokolow. Were just


keeping it relevant.
The latke size will range from
small, medium and large, and the
first 10 people to register per age
group, will be eligible for the eat
off. Arrive 10:45 a.m., to register
at Noahs Ark, 493 Cedar Lane,
Teaneck.
Winners will be awarded a gift
certificate to Noahs Ark restaurant.
Bring your appetites.
Heidi Mae Bratt is the editor of About
Our Children.

Some of us live life in the positive lane while


others only hear negative voices. The choice
is yours. When we awfulize our situation,
nothing seems good. We easily fall into an
overwhelming feeling of discontent. Our
minds fill with the worst- case scenario. Even
the smallest difficulties loom large and we
dont think we will manage.
Here are some negative self-talks to try
and stay away from: My life is crazy. Nothing ever goes right for me. Ill never be able
to fix this mess. I hate my life.
When you have the negative thoughts
playing in your head that makes you feel
as if you are living a miserable life, you
lose the positive force that lies within. Solutions become difficult to come by. Life
seems dark. Joy is a distant dream that remains unattainable.
The happiest people I know are the most
positive. But living with a positive eye takes
work. When you begin to find yourself traveling in the negative lane be conscious of what
is happening. Counter the negative thought
with a more confident one.

List Your Priorities and Goals


We spend too much time busying ourselves
with meaningless activities that strip us of a
sense of balance in our day. Surfing the net,
checking Instagram, senseless texting and
the sort are all ways we find ourselves wasting hours. We dont begin to realize how precious our time in this world is. We take opportunities with family for granted. Instead
of interacting with loved ones, we forget how
to cherish the simplest moments. Of course
we feel unbalanced.
There is too much emotional clutter
clouding our lives. It is time to get organized
and rid ourselves of the mindless acts that
prevent us from living each day to the max.
Begin by thinking about your priorities. List
your most important goals. How much time
do you spend that reflects your values? And
how much time is wasted; making you feel as
if you dont have enough hours in the day?
Seeking balance while working on solutions will help us live with a positive spirit,
feeling energized and better able to handle
lifes challenges.
Slovie Jungreis-Wolff is a parenting and relationship coach and the author of Raising a Child
With Soul, (St. Martins Press).

Aish.com

THE PREEMINENT PREPARATORY SCHOOL


IN NEW JERSEY FOR PRE-K THROUGH
12TH GRADE JEWISH EDUCATION

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
JEWISH TRADITION
COMMUNITY VALUES
VISIT GOLDAOCHACADEMY.ORG
OR CALL THE OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS 973-602-3601
FOR OPEN HOUSE DATES
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017 13

AOC-14
Guide
to Schools and Activities

ART
Lessons

SCHOOLS
Golda Och Academy

Art of Excellence Studio

Gymnastics Jazz Silks

C
P A

300 Knickerbocker Rd Cresskill

Watch Your Child Soar


in the Arts

DECEMBER HOLIDAY BREAK CAMP

Dec. 26-30 Age 3 to Teens


Dance, Acting, Musical Theater, Fencing,
Gymnastics, Silks, Art, and more.
Class for students
with learning differences
and special needs

Fencing Princess Dance and more age 2-1/2 to adults

Dance Acting Musical Theater Voice Choreography

Unlock your Creativity with Classes in


Drawing and Watercolor
Structured Lessons - Relaxed Atmosphere
Fabulous Results!
Age 7 to Adult - All levels of ability
Art Portfolio Preparation Available
Artist, Rina Goldhagen 201-248-4779
www.artofexcellencestudio.com

Rhythm and Hip-Hop based


dance classes.
2016
Everyone deserves the chance to dance! READERS
CHOICE

201-390-7513 201-266-8830

studio-info@cresskillperformingarts.com
www.cresskillperformingarts.com

Eric F. Ross Upper School Campus


1418 Pleasant Valley Way
West Orange, NJ 07052
973-602-3600
www.goldaochacademy.org
Wilf Lower School Campus
122 Gregory Avenue
West Orange, NJ 07052
973-602-3700
www.goldaochacademy.org
Ages served: Pre-K12th grade
Golda Och Academy unlocks the
potential of its students by cultivating their critical thinking skills and
nurturing their intellectual curiosity
through the study of the humanities, sciences, Judaics, and creative
arts. Please see our ad on page 13.

The Solomon Schechter Day


School of Bergen County

275 McKinley Avenue


Milford, NJ 07646
201-262-9898 ext. 213
www.ssdsbergen.org
3years8th Grade
Solomon Schechter Day School of
Bergen County (SSDS) is a nationally accredited, Jewish day school
that cultivates the next generation
of global leaders through an inquirybased educational approach. Now
in our 43rd year, SSDS is an International Baccalaureate candidate for
the Middle Years Programme with a
newly established Design Thinking
Lab. Our school integrates a rigorous dual curriculum with Jewish
values, and provides a nurturing environment guided by award-winning
educators. We offer Suzuki Violin
and chess, musical theater and
yoga, an organic teaching garden, a
Zeiss microscopy lab, and a digital
media center for Holocaust studies.
On-site day care, extended day, and
robust after-school activities program offered. Contact Sarah Sokolic
in our admissions office at 201-2629898 x203 or admissions@ssdsbergen.org to learn about our program.
Please see our ad on page 5.

The Abraham Joshua Heschel


School

More than 391,000 likes.

Like us on Facebook.

facebook.com/jewishstandard
14 About our Children JANUARY 2017

Grades N-8
30 West End Avenue
New York, NY 10023
Grades 9-12
20 West End Ave.
New York, NY 10023
212-595-7087
www.heschel.org
Please see our ad on page 16.

Academies at Gerrard Berman


Day School

45 Spruce Street
Oakland NJ 07436
201-337-1111
www.ssnj.org
Ages 214
Academies at Gerrard Berman
Day School offers a warm, nurturing environment for children ages
2-14. Through a focus in leadership, STEAM, and performing arts,
the Academies offers its students a
comprehensive Judaic and General
Studies education. We educate children to become successful leaders
and learners who will meet future
challenges and make the world a
better place. Please see our ad on
page 13.

SINAI Elementary at Joseph


Kushner Hebrew Academy

110 South Orange Avenue


Livingston, NJ 07039
862-437-8000 x 8190
www.sinaischools.org
Grades: 18
Elementary-Middle School for children with a wide range of complex
learning or developmental disabilities. Inclusive, yet individualized to
fit each students social, emotional,
and academic needs. Recognized
for educational excellence; Middle
States Association of Colleges and
Schools accreditation. Please see
our ad on page 11

SINAI Elementary at Rosenbaum


Yeshiva of North Jersey, Including
the Riva Blatt Weinstein Judaic
Studies Program

666 Kinderkamack Road


River Edge, NJ 07661
201-262-4202
www.sinaischools.org
Grades: 1-8
Elementary-Middle School for children with a wide range of complex
learning or developmental disabilities. Inclusive, yet individualized to
fit each students social, emotional,
and academic needs. Recognized
for educational excellence; Middle
States Association of Colleges and
Schools accreditation. Please see
our ad on page 11.

SINAI Schools Rabbi Mark and


Linda Karasick Shalem High
School at Heichal HaTorah

70 Sterling Place
Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-335-0633
www.sinaischools.org
Ages: 1821
Functional academic high school
program preparing older boys with
developmental disabilities for rich
and productive adult lives. Focus-

ing on life skills, community awareness, and vocational studies, while


integrating a pragmatic Judaic and
secular curricula. Inclusive, yet individualized to fit each students
social, emotional, and academic
needs. Please see our ad on page 11.

SINAI Schools Maor High School


at Rae Kushner Yeshiva High
School, including the William
Solomon Judaic Studies Program

110 South Orange Ave.


Livingston, NJ 07039
862-437-8000 x8190
www.sinaischools.org
Grades: 912
Academically rigorous program for
high schoolers with academic/social
challenges. Inclusive, yet individualized to fit each students social,
emotional, and academic needs.
Recognized for educational excellence; Middle States Association of
Colleges and Schools accreditation.
Please see our ad on page 11.

SINAI Schools Rabbi Mark and


Linda Karasick Shalem High
School at Maayanot Yeshiva High
School

1650 Palisade Ave.


Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-833-4307 x 249
www.sinaischools.org
Ages: 1421
Functional academic high school
program preparing students with
developmental disabilities for rich
and productive adult lives. Integrates pragmatic Judaic and secular
curricula with community awareness and vocational studies. Inclusive, yet individualized to fit each
students social, emotional, and academic needs. Please see our ad on
page 11.

SINAI Schools Rabbi Mark and


Linda Karasick Shalem High
School at Torah Academy of
Bergen County

1600 Queen Anne Road


Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-862-0032
www.sinaischools.org
Grades 912
Functional academic high school
program preparing students with
developmental disabilities for rich
and productive adult lives. Integrates pragmatic Judaic and secular
curricula with community awareness and vocational studies. Inclusive, yet individualized to fit each
students social, emotional, and academic needs. Please see our ad on
page 11.

AOC-15

RELIGIOUS
SCHOOLS
Jewish Youth Encounter Program

1600 Queen Anne Road


Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-833-JYEP (5937)
www.JYEP.org
Grades 38
The JYEP is a pre-bar/bat mitzvah Hebrew school for children in grades 3-8,
which, in addition to the traditional classroom instruction of Bible and holidays
by young and vibrant teachers, matches
each child with a tutor/mentor. Our JYEP
staff directed by Dr. Debby Rapps, is committed to creating an environment where
each child is individually nurtured to his
or her own strength in a warm, creative,
meaningful and stimulating environment.
We offer Bar and Bat Mitzvah training in
the higher grades, where each child is
mentored individually by a Big Brother/
Sister regardless of the level at which
they enter. Please see our ad on page 15.

Temple Beth El Religious School

221 Schraalenburg Road


Closter, NJ 07624
201-768-2195
www.tbenv.org
Grades: K-10th grades
Beth Kramer-Mazer/director of education
We are a wonderful place for children to
learn and grow. We provide a safe and
stimulating environment, which promotes positive learning experiences,
builds strong self-esteem and nurtures
inherent curiosity. Jewish identity is enhanced through celebration of Shabbat
and the holidays. Please see our ad on
page 4.

NURSERY SCHOOLS
Glen Rock Jewish Center

682 Harristown Road


Glen Rock, NJ 07452
(201) 652-6624
grjcnursery@gmail.com
We are a small, nurturing environment
rich in hands-on secular/Judaic experiences and exploration both indoors
and out. Our school promotes social,
emotional and cognitive development
through creative play, art, music, movement, literature. Flexible scheduling
and extended care are available. We are
state licensed and 100% of our teachers
are certified with degrees in education.
Hours: 7:15 am to 6:00 pm. In addition to
Nursery School programs, we also offer
Infant/Toddler Playgroups, Toddler Time
and Summer Camp. Please see our ad on
page 12.

Temple Beth El Nursery School

221 Schraalenburg Road


Closter, NJ 07624
www.tbenv.org
Ages 18 months to 5 years
Rabbi Beth Kramer-Mazer/director
We are a wonderful place for children to
learn and grow. We provide a safe and
stimulating environment, which promotes positive learning experiences,
builds strong self-esteem and nurtures
inherent curiosity. Jewish identity is enhanced through celebration of Shabbat
and the holidays. Please see our ad on
page 4.

ENRICHMENT
Boy Scout Troop 226

70 Sterling Place
Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-835-53
www.jewish226.scoutlander.com
Ages: 1117
Boy Scout Troop 226Bergen Countys
only Jewish Boy Scout troop

offers
the opportunity for boys ages 1117 to
experience the outdoors while observing Shabbat and kashrut. Our activities
include hikes, overnight camping trips,
and summer camp. Please see our ad on
page 11.

ARTS &
PERFORMING ARTS
Black Box erforming Arts Centerk

200 Walraven Drive


(GPS 290 Walraven)
just east of Palisade Avenue
201-357-2221
www.blackboxnynj.com
Ages: 5Adult
Collaborative, nurturing theater and improv workshops for all ages and levels of
experience. Most classes end in productions for family, friends, and fans. Students work inside an active professional
theater and learn from top industry
professionals. Act. Sing. Dance. Thrive.
Please see our ad on page 16.

Cresskill Performing Arts Inc.

300 Knickerbocker Road, Suite 1100


Cresskill, NJ 07626
201-266-8830
201-390-7513
studio-info@cresskillperformingarts.com
www.cresskillperformingarts.com
Ages: 2adult
Watch your child soar in the arts! Cresskill
Performing Arts specializes in small
classes, great teachers and a nurturing,
inclusive, non-competitive environment.
All kinds of dance, ballet, pointe, variations, floor barre, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical,
contemporary, 4 levels of modern, Gymnastics jazz, tap, acting, musical theater
production. Early childhood dance beginnings, ballet beginnings. Fencing lessons. New! Silks & Hammocks classes
for age 6 through adults. Rhythm Works
Integrative Dance for children with learning differences and special needs. Dance
companies perform for local charities
and fundraise for autism and the homeless. Birthday parties age 3

teens,
dance, acting, art. Legos, fencing, pajama
parties, princess parties. Please see our
ad on page 14.

The Performing Arts School


at bergenPAC

1 Depot Square
Englewood, NJ 07631
201-482-8194
www.bergenpac.org/educations
Ages: 3 months21 years.
The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC is northern New Jerseys premier
arts education program. Offering classes
in a variety of performing arts disciplines
and opportunities to participate in live
performances, the school provides students of all ages and backgrounds with
arts experiences that stimulate learning
and sparks creativity and imagination.

The programs are developed for young


people ages 3 months to 21 years old,
and since its inception has reached thousands of children. Please see our ad on
page 10.

Rina Goldhagen Art Lessons

7-01 Manor Ave.


Fair Lawn, New Jersey 07410
201-248-4779
Artofexcellencestudio@gmail.com
Ages: 7adult
Art of Excellence Studio. Lessons in Fine
Art. Drawing and Watercolor Private Art
Lessons Structured lessons, relaxed atmosphere, fabulous results. Art Portfolio
Preparation Available. Experienced Artist/Trained Educator. Please see our ad
on page 14.

SPECIAL NEEDS
Berger Learning Group, LLC

31-11 Broadway
Fair Lawn, NJ 07601
201-742-5298
www.bergerlearning.com
Ages: 18 months to 16 years
BLG provides a range of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services for children
with special needs. Our ABA programs
address cognitive, social-emotional, play,
and self-help skills, as well as language/
communication and behavioral challenges through a positive behavioral approach. Please see our ad on page 16.

The Therapy Gym

205 West Englewood Ave.


Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-357-0417
www.thetherapygym.com
Ages newborn to 21
The Therapy Gym is a comprehensive
pediatric facility offering physical, occupational, speech and behavioral therapy.

We also offer classes for kids including social skills, yoga, mommy & me, &
sports skills. We bill insurance directly
so the client can focus on his/her childs
rehabilitation. We are currently offering
screenings with a therapist for only $30
by appointment only. Please see our ad
on page 19.

SPORTS
Bounce U of Paramus

The Ultimate Party and Play Experience


70 Eisenhower Drive
Paramus, NJ 07470
201-843-5880
www.BounceU.com/Paramus
Ages: PreschoolAdult
Voted #1 Best Place to have a Kids Party
and #1 Best Kids Fun Place, Top 3 for Kids
Gym. Bounce U is a party place for families and friends to share memories that
will last a lifetime. All parties and events
completely private for you and your
guests. Two giant bounce stadiums. 10
incredible inflatables. Plus the new Lightspace game wall! Cosmic Bounce-Glow
parties. Check out our open bounce and
preschool play-date schedule online. Kosher available. Please see our ad on page
4.

Ice Vault Skating Arena

10 Nevins Drive
Wayne, NJ
973-628-1500
www.icevault.com
Ages: All
The Ice Vault has various activities for
kids of all ages. Public sessions, hockey
clinics, hockey teams, figure skating, freestyle, Learn to Skate programs. Birthday parties are also available. Please see
our ad on page 18.

THERE Registration
IS AN ALTERNATIVE
Mid-Year
Now Open

Learn About The Revolution In


HEBREW SCHOOL Education
In Bergen County
JEWISH Y UTH
ENCOUNTER PROGRAM

Creative and exciting classes for children in grades 3-7


Bar & Bat Mitzvah Preparation
Big Brothers/Sisters mentor each student
Monthly Family Programs
Located in Teaneck (Torah Academy)
Classes meet Sunday mornings
No synagogue affiliation required

Contact Dr. Deborah Rapps, Director 201-833-JYEP(5937)


Or visit us at www.JYEP.org or email debby@jyep.org
About Our Children JANUARY 2017 15

AOC-16*
OurChildren
About

Taking the Family


On a Winter Vacation
DENISE MORRISON YEARIAN

The Heschel School


OPENING MINDS, BRIDGING DIFFERENCES, LIVING JEWISH VALUES.
Ariela Dubler, Head of School

NURSERY - 12TH GRADE

High School Open House Dates:


Tuesday, September 27 | Wednesday, November 16
To RSVP contact Iris Klein, Co-Director of Admissions
iriskl@heschel.org
Early Childhood, Lower School, and Middle School Tours:
Contact Erica Panush, Co-Director of Admissions ericap@heschel.org
212.784.1234
www.heschel.org
30 West End Avenue, New York, New York 10023

very winter I get a fever cabin fever, that is. The cure?
Take my family on a winter
vacation. Before seasonal blues get
you down, round up a winning winter getaway that will not break the
bank. Following are a few tips to get
you started.

Establish a Budget
The first step to planning a winter vacation is to determine how much you can
spend. While drawing up your budget,
ask yourself a series of questions to help
you decide the kind of vacation you can
afford. Will you be able to fly to your destination, or will you drive? Can you budget
for a rental car and gas? Should you stay
in an all-inclusive resort, or opt for a hotel, condo, or rental property? How much
can you budget for activities? What about
meals, can you afford to dine out the entire time, or will you need to bring food
to eat in the room? Answering these and
other questions will lay the groundwork
for an affordable vacation without wallet
worries.

Create a Family Wish List

2017 Classes
Intro to The Stage
K Grade 3

Musical Theater Workshop for Kids


Grades 4 7

Drama for Teens


Grades 8 12

Teen Musical Theatre Workshop


Grades 8 12

Level II Improv
Ages 14 and older

Teen Improv (Level I)


Ages 14 18

Adult Improv (Level I)


Ages 19 and older

Adult Acting Workshop


Ages 19 and older

Sessions start 1/15/17 or soon thereafter!


Register at www.blackboxnynj.com!

Black Box Performing Arts Center


200 Walraven Drive Teaneck, NJ 07666
201-357-2221
16 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

Choosing a destination that will appeal


to everyone in your family is a seemingly impossible task. But a corporate
wish list is a good place to start. Ask
each family member to write down two
or three destinations he would like to go
to, based on what your budget will allow.
When everyone is finished, look over the
lists carefully to see if the destinations
coincide. Is there any common ground?
If so work from there.
If family members start grumbling
because their destination was not the
popular vote, remind them that nearly every location offers alternative activities.
For example, a ski resort normally has
ice-skating, snow tubing, snowboarding,
swimming, and indoor games.
A cruise ship may offer sightseeing,
hiking, rock climbing, and shopping. The
point is to find a location everyone will
enjoy, even if it isnt his first choice.
Before the final decision is made,
consider the ages and interests of your
children, particularly if they are young. If
you are looking at a vacation site where
babysitting is required for older family
members to participate in activities, will
be there day camps or childrens programs for the younger set?

Research Activities and Amenities


When children help plan vacations, they

feel as if their opinions are valued. It also


teaches them how to research information when it is needed. Go online with
your children and search out activities
in and around your vacation site. Check
out the various websites and do your research. Make a list of several activities,
along with hours of operation and cost
for admission.
If you are traveling by car, look for
places to stop en route museums, science centers, factory tours. This will
break up the trip. Seek out places that
are family friendly to ensure the exhibits
and activities cater to children.
In your research, take advantage of
savings opportunities two-for-one packages, flight specials, frequent flyer miles,
off-season traveling, kids stay free, earlybird dining specials, etc. If you visit a major city or attraction, stay on the outskirts
of town as lodging may cost less. Rent a
condominium or a room with a kitchen
and you can save money on meals.

Compromise and Flexibility


Sometime before the trip, discuss activity options with your family. Agree
on what everyone will do together, but
leave room for compromise. Allow everyone the freedom to do what he or she
wants while on vacation. For example,
the girls may want to go shopping while
the guys attend a sporting event.
If you are traveling with infants and
toddlers, be flexible. If, for example, you
are visiting an attraction and your child
starts to get cranky, be prepared to wind
down the activity quickly. And since children thrive on routine, try to keep their
meals and bedtimes consistent with
those at home.
Above all, remember that rounding
up a winter vacation beats the seasonal
blues. So before cabin fever sets in, balance your budget, decide on a destination, assess the activities, and call a
compromise. Then go and chill out!
Denise Morrison Yearian is a former editor
of parenting magazines, a mother and grandmother.

AOC-17

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017 17

AOC-18
OurChildren
About

Helping Your Youngsters


Set and Get to Their Goals
DENISE MORRISON YEARIAN

hen children set and achieve


personal goals, it can affect
the way they view themselves,
their academics and their activities,
both now and in the future. But for many,
goal setting doesnt just happen. Often
its an acquired skill that requires the
guidance, support and encouragement
of a parent or mentor. Once learned,
children can turn todays dreams into
tomorrows reality.
Taylor Hollingsworth is a prime example. Ever since her mother can remember, the preteen has enjoyed entertaining others and made it her goal early
on to become a professional singer.
By the time Taylor was in fifth grade
she had gotten a lot of positive feedback
with different performances so by years
end she was ready to step it up a notch,
said her mother. We decided a good

18 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

next step was to enroll her in a performing arts school so she could major in
voice and minor in theater.
Frank McIntosh, president of the local Junior Achievement, said its never
too early to start children on the goalsetting track. Whats most important,
though, is that the goals be self-directed.
If the child owns his goal, hes more
likely to embrace it and have the motivation and commitment to work toward
attaining it, says McIntosh. Its okay for
parents to give input and guidance but it
needs to be driven by the child.
This was the case with Dave Reslers daughter. From the time she was
in fourth grade, Stephanie had run short
distances in track. Upon entering high
school, she joined cross-country and so
increased her distance from one-quarter
to over three miles. But her biggest running goal came at the end of her freshman year.

One day Stephanie came to me and


said she wanted to join the 300-Mile Club
at school that summer, said her father.
I knew it was a realistic goal, so together we sat down and did the math how
often she would have to run over the
course of three months.
When children formulate a goal,
its a good idea if they write it down,
said Linda Sullivan, local 4-H organizational leader. This creates a clear picture in their minds of what they want to
achieve, gives permanency to the goal
and provides the drive and motivation
to move forward.
In doing so, they should outline steps
that need to be taken along the way.
Breaking down a large goal into specific steps helps kids experience smaller
goals along the way, said Mr. McIntosh.
For some, this may mean taking advantage of resources such as books, DVDs
and the Internet to broaden their understanding. And never underestimate the
power of third-party influencesomeone who knows the ropes and can encourage your child or provide the expertise needed to fine-tune his skills.
Hollingsworth did this.
Once Taylor was at the school, she
started taking private voice lessons and
we educated ourselves from a community theater perspective, she said. We
found out about opportunities at the local childrens theater so she auditioned
for two plays there and was given a
part each time. On both occasions we
watched the related movies and learned
the songs.
While outlining specific steps, have
your child consider potential obstacles
that may hinder goal attainment and
create a plan to overcome them, says
Sullivan. Also establish a time frame
for achieving the goal. This provides

a sense of urgency and lets your child


know if hes on track. It also gives him
the opportunity to reassess his goal,
if necessary.
One thing Stephanie and I discussed was how she was going to get her
miles in when it was 95 degrees outside.
I told her, You need to know and plan
for times when it will be difficult to run,
said Mr. Resler. We also talked about her
progress along the way. When August
rolled around, she was a little behind so
she increased her weekly distances. And
by summers end she had officially run
300 miles.
Taylor has made progress with her
singing goal, too.
She gleaned a lot of experience
from her time at performing arts school,
but the following year she returned to
her former academic setting, said Ms.
Hollingsworth. Soon after we reapplied,
we learned they were doing a production of Oliver and Taylor started preparing right away. When audition time
came, she got the leading role. Right
now were looking at moving to the next
levelgetting an agent who can possibly take her outside the community to
some larger cities.
Experts agree the best thing parents
can do to help their children set and
achieve goals is to guide them in understanding what their strengths are, help
them create a feasible plan and then become their cheerleader. But ultimately
attaining the goal is up to them.
One time I gave a commencement
address and I challenged students to
internalize ten small words that could
dramatically affect their future, said Mr.
McIntosh. If it is to be, it is up to me.
Denise Yearian is the former editor of parenting magazines, a mother and grandmother.

AOC-19*
OurChildren
About

Raising Healthy Children


By Raising Them Up
S lov i e Ju n g r e i s - Wo l f f

ell a child often enough that he wont make it in


life and guess what?
He wont.
It is up to us parents to always help our children
grow, to believe in them and encourage them to climb.
Who should believe in your child if not you?
A parent relayed a conversation that her husband
had with her teenaged son, after he brought home a disappointing report card. Besides doing poorly in various
subjects, her son, Benjamin, failed his Spanish class.
Listen, Benjamin, her husband said. You failed.
Your report card is awful and I think you should drop
Spanish immediately.
Her son replied, But, Dad, I really tried. I want to
learn Spanish. Let me try again.
Why? So youll fail again? Youll just end up showing mom and me exactly what you cant do. Whats the
point?
Dejected, Benjamin lowered his face as his cheeks
grew bright red.
Prove me wrong, Benjamin, prove me wrong! her
husband shouted as he stormed out of the room.
After she related her experience, I spoke with the
mother about what had occurred.
Tell your husband, I said, that instead of saying
Benjamin, prove me wrong, he should say, Benjamin,
prove me right! I know you can do better. I believe in
you. Prove me right!
Our sages teach us that our words can build and
our words can destroy. Negative words and impressions leave us visionless. The only place to go is down.
Positive words, on the other hand, offer our children an upward path through which they may climb.
Even in the Torah, God was careful to use positive

language. When describing the sense of aloneness that


Adam felt before the creation of Eve, God could have
said, It is really bad that Adam is all alone. Instead, He
said, It is not good that man is alone.
Lets take our cue from the Torah. When we communicate with our children we should try to express
ourselves using positive language. This can be done
even when we are disciplining our children.
For example, instead of saying: I cant believe you!
Youre always fighting with your sister! Try: I know
that you can get along much better with your sister.
Instead of: Ive never seen such a mess! Youre
room is a disaster! Try: You can be neater and cleaner.
Your room needs to be put in order.
At the end of one parenting session that I gave,
Danielle, a mother of three approached me. I realized
something today. Ive been calling my six-year old son
slowpoke for the past few years. He wakes up in the
morning and it takes him forever to get ready. Im embarrassed to tell you that Ive even called him turtle.
I decided today that I am going to make a change. I am
going to try using positive words with him.
After the next class, Danielle told me that she could
not believe the difference in her son that accompanied
her new attitude. Instead of dragging his feet, hes the
one who tries to be down first in the morning. One
night, as he was going up to bed, he gave his mother a
kiss and whispered in her ear, Mommy, thank you for
not calling me a turtle anymore.
Let us try to give our children ideals to aspire to
instead of digging deep holes into which they may descend. Each day we have countless opportunities to
help our children grow, to believe in them and help
them reach higher.
After all, we dont call it raising children for
nothing.

Slovie Jungreis-Wolff is a relationship and parenting coach


and the author of Raising a Child with Soul, (St. Martins
Aish.com
Press).

is offering Physical, Occupational,


and Speech screenings on Mondays
By appointment only
Cost of screen

$30

Call to schedule an appointment


205 West Englewood Ave Teaneck, NJ

201-357-0417

info@thetherapygym.com www.thetherapygym.com

About Our Children JANUARY 2017 19

AOC-20

5
1. Thirty high school teens of Woodcliff Lake took
part in Valley Chabads C-Teen event to decorate
bags as gifts for the participants of the Friendship
Circle, which provides companionship for special
needs children and teens.
2. The sixth graders at Temple Emanu-El of Closter
learned about Kristallnacht from the personal
experience of a students grandmother.
3. Yeshiva University students reached out to
local police officers and firefighters to express
their appreciation for keeping New York City safe
through a campaign created by students in a social
media marketing class.
4. About two dozen members from Temple
Beth Tikvah in Wayne, both children and adults,
met at Daughters of Miriam in Clifton to help its
residents enjoy a carnival of games and prizes on
Federations annual Mitzvah Day.

20 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

8
5. The Sunday morning Mitzvah Makers class of Temple Emanuel of
the Pascack Valley decorated turkeys for Thanksgiving.
6. Upcoming bar and bat mitzvah students at Shomrei Torah in
Wayne don tefillin for the first time.
7. For the 19th Annual Mitzvah Day, the Chabad of Passaic County
sponsored a coat drive, as well as a C-Teen Group visit to senior
residents at Sunrise Assisted Living and Care One in Wayne.

9
8. Five students of the JCCP/CBT Hebrew School in Paramus
received gifts for creating the most creative tzedakah boxes. From
left, competition winners, Gabrielle, Matt, Emily, Hili and Emma, with
Rabbi Arthur Weiner and Marcia Kagedan, education director.
9. The Kindergarten class of Temple Emanu-Els Religious School
learned about how God created the world, with each student
making their own Creation Wheel.

AOC-21*
OurChildren
About

TopChoices
J A N U A R Y 2 0 17

CO M P I L E D BY H E I D I M A E B RAT T

Butterflies are Free Again


at the AMNH
The butterflies are back.
See up to 500 live,
free-flying tropical butterflies in The Butterfly
Conservatory: Tropical
Butterflies Alive in
Winter at the American
Museum of Natural
History. This is one of the
museums most popular
annual seasonal exhibitions in which visitors can
watch the flight of iridescent butterflies hovering in a 1,200-square-foot vivarium that
is filled with lush foliage and blooming tropical flowers. American Museum of Natural
History, Central Park West at 79 St., Manhattan. 212-769-5100, www.amnh.org.

Think Pink
at bergenPAC
with Pinkalicious the Musical
Pinkalicious The Musical is coming to bergenPAC on Jan. 22, 2017. It is a
tale of Pinkalicious, a pink-loving girl who cant stop eating pink cupcakes
despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the
doctors office with pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to
toe, for her, a dream come. But when the hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious
can figure out a way to get out of the predicament. Shows are scheduled for
1 and 3 p.m. bergenPAC, 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood. 201-2271030, www.bergenpac.org.

Hot Peas N Butter


at The Jewish Museum
Break a Sweat
with Action Zone
at the Liberty Science Center
Just in time for all of Januarys new fitness resolutions, visitors to the Liberty Science
Center can work up a sweat as they test their sports skills in the musuems new, hightech training camp: Action Zone. A state-of-the-art simulator lets you pass a football,
toss a dodge ball at zombies, boot a soccer ball, and more. Visitors can also balance on
a balance beam, give the broad jump a best shot, and scramble up a rotating climbing
wall. Liberty Science Center, Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City.
201-200-1000. www.lsc.org

The exciting childrens musical group Hot Peas N Butter


is coming to The Jewish
Museum on Jan. 29, 2017
Shake and sizzle to the
multicultural rhythms of Hot
Peas N Butter. At the concert you could hear a mix
of contagious beats, from
vibrant Puerto Rican folk
music to soulful American
blues, and dance to
Together and other awardwinning albums. Children
3 to 8 and others will
enjoy the show. Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017. Performance at 11:30 a.m.
The Jewish Museum,1109 Fifth Ave. and 92nd Street, Manhattan. 212-4233200, www.thejewishmusuem.org.
ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017 21

AOC-22*

The Good Life With Kids

JANUARY

To Our Readers: This calendar is a day-by-day schedule of events. Although all information is as timely as we can make it, its a good idea to call to
verify details before you go.

DaybyDay
Friday, December 16
Pokemon Shabbat: An NNJJA Pokemon
Shabbat at Temple Israel & JCC. A dairy dinner is included. 6:15 p.m. 475 Grove St.,
Ridgewood. The NNJJA includes Temple Israel
& JCC, Ridgewood; Temple Beth Sholom, Fair
Lawn; Congregation Beth Sholom, Teaneck; Kol
HaNeshama, Englewood; and Temple Emmanuel
of North Jersey, Franklin Lakes.

Sunday, December 18
Family Chanukah Concert: The Pop Ups! From
10 a.m. to noon. at the Kaplen JCC on the
Palisades, 411 E. Clinton Ave., Tenafly.
Home Depot Menorah Workshop: Home Depot
and Chabad of Upper Passaic host a Menorah
Workshop from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Children and
families are invited to build their own. The Home
Depot, 106 Route 23, Rivervale. 201-696-7609,
www.jewishhighlands.org.
Chanukah Fun Day at Temple Beth Rishon:
Fun-filled day to enjoy for all families and ages.
The day includes activities with a magician,
laser tag, game truck and arts & crafts. From 11
a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Open to the community. 585
Russell Ave., Wyckoff. 201-891-4466, www.
bethrishon.org.
Celebrate Chanukah at the Jewish Museum:
From noon to 4 p.m. its a mother lode of
Chanukah activities. Build a sculptural Chanukah
lamp with funky found Dance to the tunes of
ShirLaLa and watch a unique Chanukah story
come to life through a drawing performance by
Jeff Hopkins and more. The Jewish Museum, 1109
Fifth Ave., at 92 St., Manhattan. 212-423-3200,
thejewishmuseum.org.
Chanukah Fun Day: Temple Beth Rishon 11 a.m.
to 1:30 p.m. Game truck, laser tag, arts & crafts,
magician, clown, and more. Temple Beth Rishon,
585 Russell Ave., Wyckoff. 201-891-4466,
support@bethrishon.org.
The Bossy Frog Ban at Temple Emanuel:
Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley hosts a
pre-Chanukah celebration featuring The Bossy
Frog Band at 10:15 a.m. Temple Emanuel of the
Pascack Valley, 87 Overlook Drive, Woodcliff
Lake. 201-391-0801, Margie@tepv.org.
Rocker Rick Recht in Hoboken: Kaplen
Cooperative Preschool and Learning Center of
the United Synagogue of Hoboken hosts musician
Rick Recht for Chanukah concerts at 11:15 a.m.
and 1:30 p.m. United Synagogue of Hoboken, 115
Park Ave., Hoboken. www.hobokensynagogue.org.
Hamilton Musical Theater Workshop: A Class
Act NY at the Wayne Y with a Andrew Chappelle,
star from the Broadway show, Hamilton and a
top NYC talent manager. Workshop 10 a.m. to
noon for 7 to adult. Part 2 is the audition technique workshop 1 to 3 p.m. for ages 7 to 20. Y at
1 Pike Drive, Wayne. 973-595-0100.
Chanukah Sing-A-Long: Join Cantor Israel
Singer and Temple Emanu-El at Jewish Home at
Rockleigh at 11:15 a.m. 201-750-9997 or visit
www.templemanu-el.com.

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 AboutOCaol.com
or fax it to: 201-833-4959
Deadline for February issue (published January 27):
Tuesday, January 24

Tuesday, December 20

Road, Township of Washington. 201664-7422, www.templebethornj.org.


Tot Shabbat in Franklin Lakes: Tot
Shabbat and pizza dinner at Barnert
Temple at 5 p.m. Barnert Temple, 747
Route 208 South, Franklin Lakes. 201848-1027, www.barnerttemple.org.

Chanukah Program and Book Fair:


9:30 to 11:30 a.m. annual book fair,
10:30 to 11:30 watch a production of A
Confused Chanukah. At Congregation
Bnai Israel, 53 Palisade Ave., Emerson.
201-265-2272, www.bisrael.com.

Tuesday, January 18

Wednesday,
December 21

Toddler Time in Glen Rock: Glen Rock


Jewish Center hosts groups for children
12 months to 2 years for arts and crafts,
music, free play and more. 9:15 to
10:30 a.m. 682 Harristown Road, Glen
Rock. 201-652-6623, grjcnursery@
gmail.com.

Library Hour in Wayne: Join us for quality reading and story time accompanied
by creative crafts. These meetings are
free and open to the entire community
regardless of affiliation. Sponsored by
The Chabad Center. From 4 to 4:45 p.m.
461 Valley Road, Wayne.

Friday, December 23

Friday, January 20
See The Bossy Frog, Sunday, December 18.

Chanukah Celebration at Temple


Emeth: Annual Family Shabbat service
for Chanukah. 8 p.m. follows a 6 p.m. dinner.
Bring menorahs, candles and friends. Also a nonperishable food item to donate to the Center for
Food Action. 1666 Windsor Road, Teaneck. 201833-1322, www.emeth.org.
Shabbat Music Service at Temple Emeth: A
musical Shabbat service beginning at 8 p.m. with
Rabbi Steven Sirbu and Cantor Ellen Tilem. 1666
Windsor Road, Teaneck. 201-833-1322, www.
emeth.org.

Saturday, December 24
Chanukah and Chinese Food in Ridgewood:
Temple Israel & JCC invites the community to
the first night celebration at 6:15 p.m. Bring
menorahs. Chinese buffet dinner, dreidel spinning competitions, kids activities and movie. 475
Grove St., Ridgewood. Please bring unopened
cleaning supply or toiletry for donation to
Ridgewood Social Services. 201-444-9320,
www.synagogue.org.

Sunday, December 25
Holiday Vacation Week at The Jewish Museum:
Special family programs during vacation week
from December 25 to December 30, includes
a concert by Oran Etkin at 11:30 a.m. for youngsters 2 to 7 years old, and on other days, drop-in
art sessions, a simulated archaeological dig and
more. 1109 Fifth Ave., Manhattan. For information, 212-423-3222, www.thejewishmuseum.org.
Oran Etkin in Concert: Featuring klezmer, jazz,
and the music of Africa, Oran Etkins performances weave global melodies and rhythms
into a gumbo of goodness. Enjoy tunes from
Wake Up Clarinet! and Gathering Light in honor
of Chanukah in this musical world party. 11:30
a.m. 12:30 p.m. The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth
Ave., at 92 St., Manhattan. 212-423-3200, www.
thejewishmuseum.org.
Chanukah Wonderland in Franklin Lakes:
Wonderland activities include latke making, sufganiyot making, crafts, entertainment and more.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chabad Jewish
Center, 375 Pulis Ave., Franklin Lakes. www.
chabadplace.org/Chanukahparty.

Monday, December 26
Zumba for youngsters: Zumba teacher Ginnine
Fried leads the fun from 10 to 11 a.m. 10 a.m. for
children 3 to 4; 10:30 geared for children 5 and

22 ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017

OurChildren
About

older. Jewish Center of Teaneck, 70 Sterling Place,


Teaneck. 201-833-0515.

Tuesday, December 27
Chanukah on Ice: Come skate away at in Central
Park in the midst of a huge ice sculpture menorah, with music and refreshments. Lasker Rink in
Central Park, 110 and Central Park North. From 4
to 7 p.m. www.chanukahonicenyc.com.
Friendship Circle Winter Break Mini Camp:
From 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for children for special
needs. Also on Wednesday, Dec. 28, Thursday,
Dec. 29. Chani Gurkov, 973-694-6274, www.
fcpassaiccounty.com.

Friday, December 30
Musical Shabbat: Chanukah-themed musical
Shabbat service at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Or,
56 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington.
201-664-7422, www.templebethornj.org.

Friday, January 6
Family Worship at Temple Emeth: Join family services at Temple Emeth, 1666 Windsor
Road, Teaneck. 7:30 p.m. 201-833-1322, www.
emeth.org.

Saturday, January 7
Zumba Party at JCC: Kaplen JCC on the
Palisades hosts a free Zumba party from 7:30 to
8:45. For folks 12 and older. JCC on the Palisades,
411 E. Clinton Ave., Tenafly. 212-408-1448, www.
jccotp.org.

Monday, January 9
Winter in Israel: Learn about winter in Israel, arts
and crafts and more. Free. JCC on the Palisades,
411 E. Clinton Ave., Tenafly. 201-408-1427, www.
jccotp.org.

Tuesday, January 11
Toddler Time in Glen Rock: Glen Rock Jewish
Center hosts groups for children 12 months
to 2 years for arts and crafts, music, free play
and more. 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. 682 Harristown
Road, Glen Rock. 201-652-6623, grjcnursery@
gmail.com.

Friday, January 13
Tot Shabbat at Temple Beth Or: Join Rabbi Noah
and Cantor Sarah and other families with young
children. 6 p.m. Temple Beth Or, 56 Ridgewood

Shabbat Music at Temple Emeth: Join


a musical Shabbat service at 8 p.m. Join
Rabbi Steven Sirbu and Cantor Ellen
Tilem for singing and dancing. 1666 Windsor
Road, Teaneck. 201-833-1322, www.emeth.org.
Shabbat Hallelu at Temple Beth Or: Musical
services for the whole family. Open to the community. 7:30 p.m. Temple Beth Or, 56 Ridgewood
Road, Township of Washington. 201-664-7422,
www.templebethornj.org.

Sunday, January 22
Friendship Circle Sports Series: Sports clinics for children with special needs. 1 to 2:30
p.m. The Chabad Center of Passaic County, 194
Ratzer Road, Wayne. 973-694-6274. www.
fcpassaiccounty.com.

Sunday, January 22
Tu BShevat at Temple Beth Or: Celebrate the
trees with a Tu BShevat program for 2 to 6 year
olds and their parents. 10:15 a.m. Temple Beth
Or, 56 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington.
201-664-7422, www.templebethornj.org.

Tuesday, January 25
Toddler Time in Glen Rock: Glen Rock Jewish
Center hosts groups for children 12 months to
2 years for arts and crafts, music, free play and
more. 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. 682 Harristown Road,
Glen Rock. 201-652-6623, grjcnursery@gmail.
com.
Kids Cooking Class: A culinary trip around the
world for children ages 3 to 10. Each class is $8,
held from 4 to 4:45 p.m. The Chabad Center,
194 Ratzer Road, Wayne. 973-694-6274, www.
jewishwayne.com.

Sunday, January 29
Friendship Circle Sports Series: Sports clinics for children with special needs. 1 to 2:30
p.m. The Chabad Center of Passaic County, 194
Ratzer Road, Wayne. 973-694-6274. www.
fcpassaiccounty.com.
Hot Peas N Butter Concert: Enjoy the multicultural rhythms of Hot Peas N Butter at a concert
at The Jewish Museum, 11:30 a.m. For ages 3 to 8.
The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Manhattan.
212-423-3200, www.thejewishmuseum.org.

AOC-23*

Simchas
B'nai Mitzvah
CALEB WOLIN

Emily Fine, daughter of


Elizabeth and Harold Fine,
celebrated becoming a bat
mitzvah on December 10 at
the Fair Lawn Jewish Center/
Congregation Bnai Israel.

Caleb Wolin, son of Chava and


Matthew Wolin of Teaneck,
and brother of Juliet and Liev,
celebrated becoming a bar
mitzvah on November 26 at
Congregation Beth Sholom in
Teaneck.

BE CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

EMILY FINE

RYAN GESS
Ryan Gess, son of Andrea
and Richard Gess of
Ridgewood and brother of
Daniel, celebrated becoming
a bar mitzvah on December
10 at Temple Beth Rishon in
Wyckoff.

JAYSON HARMER

EZRA SHAFRON

IAN SOLOMON

BEN WEINBERGER

Jayson Harmer, son of


Lea and Brian Harmer of
Hawthorne, and brother of
Aidan, 15, and Logan, 9,
celebrated becoming a bar
mitzvah on November 5 at
Barnert Temple in Franklin
Lakes.

Ian Solomon, son of Beth


and Michael Solomon of
Woodcliff Lake and brother
of Rachel, celebrated
becoming a bar mitzvah on
November 19 at Temple
Emanuel of the Pascack
Valley in Woodcliff Lake.

Ben Weinberger, son of


Jennifer Weinberger and
Mitchel Weinberger of
Franklin Lakes, and brother
of Arielle, 16, celebrated
becoming a bar mitzvah on
November 19 at Barnert
Temple in Franklin Lakes.

Brandon Scheinbach, son of


Keri and Geoff Scheinbach
of Norwood, celebrated
becoming a bar mitzvah on
December 10 at Temple
Beth El of Northern Valley in
Closter.

Ezra Shafron of Wyckoff


celebrated becoming a bar
nitzvah on November 12. He
attends Gerrard Berman Day
School in Oakland and is a
congregant at Barnert
Temple in Franklin Lakes. He
is the brother of Noah
Shafron and Zoey Soukas,
and the son of Amy Silna
Soukas and Jason Shafron.
Martin Shafron, Iris Gibney,
and Joan and Dan Silna are
his grandparents. As a bar
mitzvah project, he brings
music to the residents of the
Chelsea at Montville, an
assisted living community. He
will be donating his bar
mitzvah funds to Rock Club
Music Is The Remedy, a
non-profit organization
dedicated to improving the
lives and well-being of
veterans, at-risk youth, and
other groups through music
instruction, education, and
mentoring.

ILANA SELTZER

OLIVIA SHATTUCK

Ilana MarleeRose Seltzer,


daughter of Errol and Barbra
Seltzer of Fair Lawn and
sister of Lee and Jacob,
celebrated becoming a bat
mitzvah on November 19
at Temple Avodat Shalom in
River Edge.

Olivia Shattuck, daughter of


Meryl and Steven Shattuck
of Ridgewood and sister of
Kyle and Amanda, celebrated
becoming a bat mitzvah on
December 3 at Temple Beth
Rishon in Wyckoff.

JETT MANN

ANDREW GLAZER
Andrew Glazer, son of
Amy and David Glazer of
Ridgewood and brother of
Benjamin and Stephanie,
celebrated becoming a bar
mitzvah on December 3
at Temple Emanuel of the
Pascack Valley in Woodcliff
Lake.

JACOB GONZALEZ
Jacob Gonzalez, son of
Robin Segal-Gonzalez and
Robert Gonzalez of Oakland,
and brother of Joshua, 15,
celebrated becoming a bar
mitzvah on November 5 at
Barnert Temple in Franklin
Lakes.

Jett Mann, son of Richard


Mann and Hollie Asch
of Dumont, celebrated
becoming a bar mitzvah on
November 19 at Temple
Beth El of Northern Valley in
Closter.

BRANDON
SCHEINBACH

PARTY

973-661-9368

Send us your simchas!


We welcome simcha announcements for births and bnai mitzvah.
Announcements are subject to editing. There is a $10 charge for
photos. Photos must be high resolution jpg files.
Call (201) 837-8818 for information.
Send to pr@jewishmediagroup.com or mail to NJ Jewish Media
Group, ATT: Simchas, 1086 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666, If
a photograph is to be returned, include a SASE.

Include:
1 hours of skating (during public session)
Private decorated party room
Off ice party attendant
Skate rental
Invitations for party guests
Pizza and soda
Personalized Carvel ice cream cake
Favors and candy
FREE skating pass for future use
Birthday child receives FREE Ice Vault T shirt

ABOUT OUR CHILDREN JANUARY 2017 23

AOC-24

Top quality care.


Again and again.
The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, New Jersey, is proud to be recognized as a leader
in gynecology services in our region. Healthgrades has awarded us with a 5-star
rating for gynecologic surgery. Healthgrades also rated The Valley Hospital
among the top 5% in the nation for gynecologic surgery.
Providing top quality care is our number one priority.
We believe its why women choose us.
Again and again.

www.ValleyHealth.com

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10/19/16 1:06 PM

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