Dinosaurs once again roam the earth in a spectacular theatrical arena show, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular, based on the award-winning BBC Television Series. WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is now on tour in North America and will perform 12 performances at Madison Square Garden in New York. More than 3.1 million Americans have already seen the production since it opened in July 2007.

The show originated in Australia, where after years of planning, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS came to life at Sydney’s Acer Arena in January 2007.  The show proved itself such a sensation, that this North American tour was fast-tracked.  It began a short three months after completing its sold out engagements in Australia. Since that time, the show’s two companies have played to 4.4 million people worldwide and generated over $210 million dollars in overall ticket sales.

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular is brought to North America by The Creature Production Company, headed by CEO Carmen Pavlovic.  Pavlovic said, “The BBC Series was a brilliant blend of special effects, escapism, excitement and information.  Our show brings together all of that, plus something extra -  it’s live!   In this production, seventeen roaring, snarling “live” dinosaurs mesmerize the audience – and are as awe-inspiring as when they first walked on earth.”

Pavlovic continued, “The dinosaurs are life-size, making the show so immense, it could only fit in arenas. It’s a $20 million arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality, which captivates young and old alike. With Walking with Dinosaurs, we really believe we have created a new genre in entertainment and we hope to continue to bring new product to arenas for years to come ”

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular has s been seen on “The Today Show,” Good Morning America,” “Live with Regis and Kelly,” and has been written about in Newsweek, The New York Times, the Christian Science Monitor and the Wall Street Journal. It was the subject of a Discovery Channel Really Big Things episode and a video clue category on Jeopardy.

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Tim Haines, creator and producer of the original BBC series, which was seen by a worldwide audience of 700 million, serves as Project Consultant to WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular.  The series won six Emmy and three BAFTA Awards.

Ten species are represented from the entire 200 million year reign of the dinosaurs.  The show includes the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the terror of the ancient terrain, as well as the Plateosaurus and Liliensternus from the Triassic period, the Stegosaurus and Allosaurus from the Jurassic period and Torosaurus and Utahraptor from the awesome Cretaceous.  The largest of them, the Brachiosaurus is 36 feet tall, and 56 feet from nose to tail.  It took a team of 50 – including engineers, fabricators, skin makers, artists and painters, and animatronic experts – a year to build the original production.

The show depicts the dinosaurs’ evolution, complete with the climatic and tectonic changes that took place, which led to the demise of many species.  With almost cinematic realism, WALKING WITH DINOSAURS has scenes of the interactions between dinosaurs, and the audience sees how carnivorous dinosaurs evolved to walk on two legs, and how the herbivores fended off their more agile predators.

The history of the world is played out with the splitting of the earth’s continents, and the transition from the arid desert of the Triassic period is given over to the lush green prairies and forces of the later Jurassic.  Oceans form, volcanoes erupt, a forest catches fire — all leading to the impact of the massive comet, which struck the earth, and forced the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Variety said, “The dinosaurs are stunning, life-size and faultlessly nimble. In act one, the beasts parade into the arena gnashing and cavorting as a safari-suited paleontologist describes their attributes … in the second half, the action cranks up, culminating in a spectacular clash as a T-Rex mom defends her baby from predators. Sonny Tilders’ triumphant creature design ensures ‘Walking With Dinosaurs’ is a truly spectacular spectacular. It is everything a dino-phile could want.”

The New York Times said that in this show dinosaurs make “a thundering comeback after 65 million years.”

Gloria Goodale of the Christian Science Monitor said, “When the dinosaurs start pouring out onto the stage, if you don’t have to stifle the natural flight response of any living breathing being, then it’s your pulse that needs checking.”

Newsweek called the show, “that rare entertainment beast that parents and kids can enjoy together.”

It took 50 artists and technicians one year to build the show. The 17 dinosaurs were originally “hatched” by Tilders, the head of creature design, in a Melbourne Docklands workshop big enough to park a 747. For the North American tour, the only building large enough to house rehearsals for the dinosaurs – some as large as 36 ft tall by 56 ft long, was the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center!

Artistic Director William May is known around the globe for co-producing shows with Malcolm Cooke for the past 30 years, including The Hobbit and The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.  He produced Marilyn An American Fable on Broadway and co-composed and wrote the musical Always for the West End.

Director Scott Faris directed Michael Crawford in EFX at MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, which at the time was the biggest stage production ever conceived, and was on the production team that created Siegfried & Roy at the Mirage Hotel.  Faris has directed Chicago the Musical in 16 countries around the world in over a dozen languages. Most recently he directed Bette Midler in her new Las Vegas show, The Showgirl Must Go On at Caesars Palace.

Faris said, “We take the audience on a journey back in time and show them how the dinosaurs might have actually looked in their prime – huge, sometimes frightening, sometimes comical monsters – that fought for survival every day of their lives.  Our dinosaurs move exactly like they are real — with all the roars, snorts and excitement that go with it.  The realism is mind-blowing!”

Sonny Tilders, who designed and built the creatures has been, for the past decade, one of the major creative forces of the high-tech world of animatronic puppetry for film and television.  He was one of the lead animatronic engineers for Jim Henson’s Creature workshop on the Farscape series, followed by work on Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, Peter Pan, Ghost Rider and The Chronicles of Narnia.

Tilders said, “Many of the technologies we are using on WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular are borrowed from film. The computer software and hardware we have developed is based on the systems used to control animatronic creatures in feature films.”

“To make it appear that these creatures are flesh and blood weighing six, eight or even 20 tons, we use a system called ‘muscle bags,’ made from stretch mesh fabric and filled with polystyrene balls, stretched across moving points on the body.  These contract and stretch in the same manner that muscle, fat, and skin does on real creatures.”

“The puppeteers use ‘voodoo rigs’ to make many of the dinosaurs move.  They are miniature versions of the dinosaurs with the same joints and range of movement as their life-sized counterparts.  The puppeteer manipulates the voodoo rig and these actions are interpreted by computer and transmitted by radio waves to make the hydraulic cylinders in the actual dinosaur replicate the action, with a driver hidden below the animal, helping to maneuver it around the arena.”  Suited puppeteer specialists, who are inside the creatures, operate five of the smaller dinosaurs.

Warner Brown wrote the script of WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular. He is an accomplished writer whose works include the book of the musical Flickers on Broadway, the screenplay of Nijinsky for Regent Entertainment, the musical The Black and White Ball, which features music by Cole Porter and The Truth About Light, written with composer Jimmy Roberts.  Other credits include a new version of Half A Sixpence for the West End in 2008, Garbo – The Musical with music by Jim Steinman and Michael Reed, playing in Europe, and the plays and musicals Scandal, The Biograph Girl, Six for Gold, Cinderella, Talullah for a Day and Dance for Life.

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WALKING WITH DINOSAURS – The Arena Spectacular will perform 12 performances at Madison Square Garden in New York. The performance schedule is:

• Wednesday, July 21, 2010 – 3PM & 7PM
• Thursday, July 22, 2010 – 11AM & 7PM
• Friday, July 23, 2010 – 11AM & 7PM
• Saturday, July 23, 2010 – 11AM, 3PM & 7PM
• Sunday, July 25, 2010 – 11AM, 3PM & 7PM

Tickets for the general public are on sale NOW by calling 866.858.0008, online at www.thegarden.com/dinos or in-person at the Madison Square Garden Box Office. For groups, please call 212.465.6080. For more information, please visit www.dinosaurlive.com. Video of the show is available on our site under “Meet The Dinosaurs” tab in the middle of the front page.

We are a family that loves going on bike rides. My son was a bit late in having his training wheels taken off his two-wheeler. This year however, he was now ready to ride without that extra help and he took immediately to this no found freedom.  His first day he rode for hours. He cried out” look how fast I am going dad; I am really good. “ “Yes you are, but you have to be careful Dak.” I warned.

He was so confident, he now wanted to ride every day after school. He now wanted to go farther, so first we took back streets to Rita’s while Lisa, the dogs and I walked. He was now ready to go on an even longer bike ride. So we rode as a family to our friend’s house. The ride was probably over a mile and a half each way. He handled it easily, never complaining about being tired.

So on a Friday after school Dak and I went on a bike ride, Lisa was working and would be home in about an hour. The plan was to ride 2 miles to a park and have Dak play for a while and then ride home. As we started on our late afternoon adventure, the traffic was a lot more then I expected.

We were almost at the park when Dak fell down behind me. I looked back and saw that his knee and elbow were scraped badly.  With tears coming down his cheeks he screamed,” I want my mommy, I want my mommy.” I said, “ Buddy we have to get you home so we can take care of your wounds. I was annoyed with myself thinking what idiot takes his son on a bike this far from home and worst what fool forgets his cell phone.

After 10 minutes of walking his bicycle and not getting much closer to home, I said “Dak can you ride the rest of the way.” “I can try,” was his reply. Five minutes later he fell down again. A nice mother traveling with her children in the car saw Dak fall and pulled over to ask if I needed help. I said,” Could you please.”? We left the bicycles and she gave Dak and me a car ride to our house. I was very appreciative and touched by her kindness.” Dak’s wounds have now healed, but we’ll stick to riding around our house for the time being.

POST ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS ARTICLE. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR OPINIONS.

By  Sue Gerard

www.suespointofview.com

The digital revolution has taken over photography.  Now it seems everyone has a digital camera and even more people own digital SLR’s.  So the number of amateurs with great cameras is growing and people are attempting to be their own professional photographer.  And why not?  You get instant gratification.  You know right away whether you captured the image you wanted or not.  But being a photographer means more than owning a good camera.  You must have skill in assessing the light, the environment and the dynamics of your subjects.  You need to have an innate ability to connect with those you are photographing coupled with technical know-how of your camera and equipment.  Here are some reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

First of all if you want a family portrait, you need someone to take the photograph, right?  But I know many of you are camera shy and therefore only want to capture your children. However, I think it’s important to have a full family portrait.  As a professional photographer, I pay attention to details.  Through my years of experience I have learned how to pose families in ways that flatter everyone.  I can provide session tips and offer advice on clothing to wear.  These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

Now that it’s July, many families want to get portraits taken at the beach.  This is my favorite thing to do!  The beach provides such a beautiful setting for a family portrait.  It has a perfect blend of natural colors from the sand, to the green dunes, to the blue water, and the white caps of crashing waves against the shoreline.  Dress yourselves in coordinating shirts in pastel shades or white with khaki pants and you have yourself a professionally designed portrait waiting to get hung on your walls!  Can’t you just “picture” it??  I like to take some posed portraits as well as candid shots.  Let me show you how to sit with your family in a posed manner, yet relaxed and natural enough to look as though you aren’t posed.  Let me capture your kids looking for shells,  splashing at water’s edge, or running with the waves.  I can illustrate how your family interacts with each other and show your true essence and your personalities.  These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

Love some of the pictures you take, but wish you could make them better?  Professionals have the talent and the tools to enhance your photographs from touching up skin, hiding wrinkles, making colors more vibrant, optimizing lighting, removing distractions in the background, etc,  Wish those fly away hairs were gone?  Consider it done.  Wish your teenager’s acne wasn’t so distracting?  Consider those blemishes gone.  Wish you could open someone’s eyes since everyone else in the photo looks great?  No problem.  Wish you could take a head from one picture and place it in another?  Yep, I can do that too!  (actually way too often than I care to mention!).  These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

Do you want to present your portraits as works of art in your home or showcase a wall-sized portrait over your couch or fireplace?  I have an

assortment of ways to do so.  Custom framing is a common option.  You want to have someone qualified to help you choose a frame and matting that will fit your home décor while simultaneously complimenting the style of your wall portrait.  Canvas gallery wraps are very popular.  Your photograph is bonded through an emulsion process to a textured canvas fabric and stretched over a wooden frame.  This provides a nice contemporary finished look, ready to hang on your wall.  Preparing any portrait for display in your home is best handled by an expert.  These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

One of my most popular products is called a composite.  It is a digital collage where multiple photos are arranged and displayed on one printed surface.  These arrangements require design time and skill to create them in Photoshop.  Creativity and artistry can make an ordinary collage into a work of art. I can also provide other ways to show off a collection of your favorite images such as brag books, press printed coffee-table style photo books, digitally designed lay-flat albums and DVD slide shows set to music.  These are all professional presentations that aren’t readily available to the general public.  These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

Some may wonder why anyone would pay such high prices for a 5X7, 8X10 or an 11X14 if you can get one at a fraction of the cost at your local pharmacy, Costco or even online?  The true cost really lies in the amount of time it takes to produce a professional portrait.  The cost to print may be minimal, but other factors must be considered when determining the value of your portrait. There are consultations, travel time, the session itself, uploading and backing up images, editing, printing proofs, client meetings, editing and enhancing prints for final order, creating any digital products, reviewing order from lab, prepping for delivery, etc.  Studies show that a photographer will spend an average of 13-19 hours on each client!  So please know that we are putting our passion, our heart and our soul into the process of building relationships with you, providing personal customer service, caring for your memories and producing photographic works of art for you.  These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

Have you ever tried to do your own photo session with your children?  I know many moms who try to get a great shot of their kids every year so they can use it for holiday greeting cards.  Isn’t it stressful?  Why do you do that to yourselves? I know my patience is tested when taking pictures of my own kids; I’d rather do someone else’s. Ha!  Let a professional take care of it for you and make your life easier.  Don’t we all try to make our lives easier in various ways?  We hire people to paint our nails, cut our hair, prepare our meals, and clean our houses.  But all those things are temporary.  Why not pay a professional photographer to take your precious pictures for you and alleviate the stress factor?  You are guaranteed to get a great portrait that you can enjoy over and over and over again.  Your nail polish has chipped, your house is messy again and you consumed the meal you paid someone to prepare.  But portraits are a moment in time that live on forever. These are reasons why you should hire a professional photographer.

As demonstrated, there is a great deal of time involved in creating a custom photograph and offering a personal experience for the client.  When working with a studio, you are provided with great service, better choices and a high quality end product.  Professional photographers are dedicated to their craft and are constantly educating themselves so they can be better… for you!  Photography is an emotional business that offers an emotional experience and produces an emotional product.  Your resulting images are heirloom portraits to be treasured for a lifetime.  Do you need any more reasons why you should hire a professional photographer? I think not.

www.suespointofview.com

One could say the Demeter family of Toms River was formed with a little bit of divine intervention.  Mom Janine met her future husband, Andy, when she took her white car for its weekly wash at the establishmentowned by Andy’s family.  After dating for about 18 months, they were married in June of 1994 at the Crystal Point Yacht Club in Point Pleasant.  “You never know where you’re going to meet the love of your life,” Janine quips.  She and Andy spent six years enjoying married life and getting settled, before they were blessed to become parents to son Drew, now 10.  Daughter Ally, age 8, and six-year-old son, Evan, round out this faithful family.

The family is “local to the core,” Janine attests.  Andy grew up in Brick and graduated from Toms River North High School. He works as general manager at Silver Bay Car Wash Express Lube, the business owned by his mother and stepfather, MaryLou and Vince Galati, for 22 years.  Janine says that although Andy’s work days are long, they are so grateful that he has been able to steadily provide for their family during this economic downturn.  Janine was born in Point Pleasant Hospital and raised in Brick, graduating from Brick High School, just as her parents, Allen and Pat Dey, had.  Allen even penned the school’s alma mater song!

Janine’s days are spent not only caring for her family and their home, but also serving as a volunteer for the Parent Teacher Fellowship at Ambassador Christian Academy in Toms River, the Pre-K through eighth grade school that the children all attend.  Janine explains that the academy, also known as ACA, is the only accredited classical Christian school in the area, and that ACA has “educated minds and hearts for over 31 years.”  Janine notes that she and Andy are most thankful for this schooling, as the family is built upon a strong faith in God.  Janine says her foundation as a mom is “faith, family, friends and fun,” and that the entire family is also active in their church, Bethany Bible Chapel on Church Road in Toms River.  Noting that the children are “the best of friends,” Janine adds that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made as unique individuals,” quoting Psalm 139:14.  She claims that the kids “understand we are a family, a unit and a team and work together as a whole.” Because of this philosophy, the family “does pretty much everything together,” noting there will be time for separate teams and activities later in life, but for now, they enjoy being together as much as possible.

YCT: Tell us a little about your family and the personalities of each of your children.

Janine: Drew is a history buff, especially anything having to do with the military.  He studies Latin and Spanish and has received honor grades all four marking periods this year.  He’s known as a great friend to all at school and enjoys participating on the school’s bowling team.  Since being introduced to archery at a Christian sleep-away camp he attends for two weeks every summer, he’s become quite a marksman; we even have a hunter friend give him lessons in the summer.  He’s also passionate about boarding – skateboarding, skimboarding in the ocean, and snowboarding in the winter.  I’d describe Ally as having a gracious heart and lots of friends.  She’s a wonderful blessing to me in this house full of boys.  She’s organized and loves to be in the kitchen with me.  Her favorite subject at school is math, and boy, does she know how to take charge, which is especially helpful on school mornings!  Now Evan is affectionately known as “Hank the Tank,” because he is all-boy and full of energy, energy, energy!  Given instruction and guidance, he can channel that energy to good use and has become a great helper in his full-day kindergarten class, and around our house as well.  If I ask him to weed the garden, he may stay out there for hours!

YCT: What is a typical day like in your home?

Janine: There is no such thing as a typical day in our home!  We are blessed to have a lot of family all here in Ocean County – both sets of grandparents, 13 aunts and uncles and 14 cousins to be exact – so there is always someone coming and going.  We often have people over for dinner or visits.  We try to take things as they come and go, and take life as it comes to us.  In the summer, my big rule is to get the chores done before the fun adventure for the day.  We enjoy the outdoors year round and we are so fortunate to have a large protected stretch of woods that abuts our back yard.  The woods will never be developed and we really take advantage of that for adventures and play time.

YCT: What activities do your children participate in after school?

Janine: After the kids complete their homework, they usually go outside to play and take bike rides.  We live on a small, safe street so the kids can ride their scooters and bikes, and play basketball without worry.  We’re the only family on our street that doesn’t have a dog, so the kids walk the neighbors’ dogs.  They know the names of all the dogs and their humans!

YCT: What is your favorite thing to do locally with your family?

Janine: We often go to Island Beach State Park in Seaside for fun and fishing and where we spot red foxes, instead of the old “yellow cars” game.  We like to go bike riding, especially at Toms River’s Winding River Park or on the Manasquan Bike Path. We also go hiking in Cattus Island Park in Toms River and Bass River State Park in Tuckerton.  For Evan’s sixth birthday in February, we had a hiking party for 17 people through the snow covered trails at Bass River State Park, then hotdogs and s’mores cooked over the fire pit in our backyard.  Last winter, during the snow days off from school, we had a major Olympics party in our back yard – I told all the moms to dress in layers, because we were going to be staying outside through it all!  The past few years we had season passes for Great Adventure and went often.  This year we decided on state park passes, which allows us to bike and hike all the state parks.  I thought this would be especially informative this year, as it will augment Drew’s study of New Jersey as a fourth grader in school this past year.

YCT: Do you have any favorite local vacation spots?

Janine: For the past three summers, we have gone to Pennsylvania for vacation.  We have climbed Bushkill Falls, an amazing waterfall system in the Poconos.  We have canoed the Lehigh Gorge and hiked Boulder Field in Hickory Run State Park.  The trips always conclude with a day at Camelbeach, a water park near our vacation spots.  But the best spot of all is the Jersey Shore.  We are beach bums when given the chance and take advantage of the local attractions like Breakwater Beach in Seaside and Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant.

YCT: Have you ever gone on vacation without the kids?

Janine: Since we’ve become parents, we have taken two trips without the kids.  During the years Andy and I each turned 40, we went away for a few days to relax in the sun & sand.  We are so lucky to have both sets of grandparents here in Toms River, when they are not staying at their other homes in Florida.  Therefore, we were able to go away with peace of mind.

YCT: Do you have a favorite family-friendly restaurant?

Janine: We try to go out about once a week to cost effective restaurants such as Five Guys, TGI Fridays and Friendly’s – all in Toms River.  It’s nice to incorporate a little education in the meal, too.  For instance, Five Guys offers potatoes from different states on a rotating schedule and the kids get a kick out of learning a bit about the state their fries have come from!

YCT: What is your favorite date night location and how often do you get to go out with just your husband?

Janine: Since Andy works such long hours, the kids and I always try to pop in for a car wash or to just visit.  We like to pull him away to dine at Surf Taco in Toms River or bring in a “picnic pizza” so we can eat together.  We feel that we are primarily ‘mom and dad’ to these young children, so we don’t go off alone too often.  However, I’m sure date nights will come back to us at some point.  We often reconnect at the end of the day sharing the day’s activities regarding children or business on our back deck watching the sun set and the moon rise.

YCT: What is your favorite non-mommy thing to do and how often do you get to do it?

Janine: Yay and yes!  I believe all moms should have an abundant amount of “gal friends” to give advice, laugh and cry, and having so many you always find one free when you or she needs it most.  I have an artsy side and when my friend, Karin Killian of 2friends hand-made ribbon, gifts and accessories, asked me to join her at local craft fairs, I jumped at the chance.  Together we attend about 15 outdoor craft venues a year from Long Beach Island to Monmouth County, including the Festival of the Sea in Point Pleasant, Brielle Day and the Toms River Sailfest.  It’s a great opportunity to promote her business, be outdoors and meet new people.

YCT: What is your husband¹s favorite non-daddy thing to do?

Janine: Andy is a different story – his friends all come to him, as he is a steady fixture at the Silver Bay Car Wash.  In his free time, he enjoys spending time in the yard and garden but is never alone as he always has six little helping hands.  He spends lots of time working – this is how our family is balanced right now.

YCT: Do you patronize any advertisers from our magazine?

Janine: Ally has gone to Sparkle Diva and we have celebrated the kids’ birthdays at the Jersey Shore Pirate Adventure and with Gamin’ Ride at our home.  We have had swimming lessons at Pied Piper Swim School. We make a platter once a year at  Color Me Mine and we frequent Bee Mine consignment shop in     Toms River.

YCT: Do you have any parenting advice that you would like to offer our readers?

Janine: Growing up I had a dear family friend named Katherine Mead who was a mother of seven.  She once told me to get up before the kids.  Of course, this was hard when they were babies but since they have been school age, this has become a wonderful habit.  I wake up one half hour before the kids to pray, meditate and be still.  Then I have my morning coffee and am ready for morning hugs and all that the day may bring.  I also think that being flexible and spontaneous works very well for us – to overcome stress and upsets during the day.  For example, sometimes we have a picnic dinner in our own living room, just for a change of pace.

YCT: What is your favorite part of Your Child Today magazine?

Janine: My favorite part is the ‘Focus on the Family’ feature.  I use the ‘Calendar of Events’ section over and over to find great local events for our spontaneous adventures!

POST ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS ARTICLE. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR OPINIONS.

Another school year has come to a close which means it’s time to gas up the car, pack up the kids, and take a family road trip this summer.  Where will your family visit during the months of July and August?  If you’re stumped for ideas and not sure where to take the troops for a special vacation this year, check out one of Your Child Today’s “Top Nearby Family-Friendly Travel Destinations.”  All of the selected parks and resorts are outside of New Jersey, but luckily for Shore area families, they are all within a reasonable driving distance.

Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Vermont: This all-inclusive family resort, located in the picturesque mountains of Vermont, is well worth the journey north.   In addition to separate activities for kids and adults, there are plenty of events for the entire family as well.

While the kids are kept busy and happy in one of Smugglers’ many camp programs, parents can pursue some of their own hobbies and interests through guided hiking tours, kayaking, fishing clinics, garden tours, and other specialty programs.

Smugglers’ popular health and wellness workshops showcase aromatic herbs, essential oils, and spices this summer under the guidance of knowledgeable herbalists from Vermont’s Purple Shutter Herbs.  New sessions include Herbal Manicure, Bath Fizzies, Lip Balms and Energizing with “Zoom Balls,” a sweet treat made with herbs and spices that deliver an energy boost. Yoga, fitness walking, meditation and aromatherapy classes are also available.

If you would like to enjoy a taste of Vermont, a farmer’s market will be available every Monday morning at Smugglers’. Local farmers and specialty food vendors will offer a bountiful selection of goodies including fresh-from-the-field vegetables, locally raised meats, maple products, artisan cheeses, spicy condiments and wines.

If your family is adventurous and would like to see some of the sights outside of the resort, day trips are also available.   A new outing explores Vermont’s beautiful lakeside “Queen City.”  Resort day trippers have a new outing to choose from with Discover Burlington, which joins perennial favorites A Taste of Vermont and the Montreal Day Trip.   After a stop at a local coffee roaster, guests can head to the shops and boutiques on Burlington’s renowned pedestrian-friendly Church Street Marketplace, take in the waterfront of Lake Champlain and spend time in the lakeside ECHO Center, aninteractive science museum that all ages enjoy. The journey back to Smugglers’ includes a photo opportunity at a covered bridge.

What’s New: This summer, the resort is offering two vacation packages to increase family vacation choices. The Resort’s new SimplySmuggs Vacation Package offers flexibility to families who want to make a la carte selections from the Resort’s varied menu of award-winning children’s programs for ages 3 to 17. When registering for those programs prior to arrival, families will enjoy a discounted rate of 25 percent on the children’s programs they select. Vacation package rates for a family of four in a one bedroom mountainside condominium start at $1176 for a 3 day/3night stay on the SimplySmuggs Vacation Package in July (shorter or longer stays are available).  The Resort’s popular FamilyFest Vacation Package includes Smugglers’ award-winning daylong children’s programs, and offers the best value for families interested in a comprehensive package. Rates for a family of four in a one bedroom mountainside condominium start at $1395 for a 3 day/3 night stay on the FamilyFest Vacation Package in July (shorter or longer stays are available).  Camp activities for ages 3-17 include nature discovery, games, arts and crafts, and pool and waterslide fun.  In addition, children ages 7-15 may elect to concentrate on performance, arts & crafts, nature & hiking or adventure and games. The SimplySmuggs and FamilyFest Vacation Packages offer discounts for families interested in specialty camps focusing on outdoor adventure, tennis, skateboarding, and videography.  Both the SimplySmuggs and FamilyFest Vacation Packages include full-equipped mountainside condominium lodging, unlimited use of eight heated pools and four waterslides, daily guided walks and hikes for all levels of ability, two teen centers, mini golf, disc golf, and use of the skate park. Family programs and entertainment included in the package are: bingo, dance parties, a family magic show, and more. Nightly entertainment for adults is also included. Both packages feature unlimited use of the FunZone Family Entertainment Center- an indoor play center for all ages featuring climbing and bouncy inflatables such as a giant slide and obstacle course, plus a kids’ climbing wall, miniature golf and arcade games.  Package information is available by visiting www.smuggs.com or by calling the resort’s reservationists at 1-800-451-8752.

Sesame Place, Pennsylvania: On a really hot summer afternoon, spending the day at Sesame Place is a great way for your kids to get wet and stay cool.  Don’t miss this popular park in Langhorne which features characters from the hit television series and is only about an hour from the Shore area.  Your kids can splash around and frolic on one of the many water rides or they can stay dry and take a spin on the carousel, roller coaster Blast Off, Vapor Trail or Flyin’ Fish rides.  If you need to catch your breath and relax for a few moments, sit back and relax for one of Sesame Place’s interactive shows, like Big Bird’s Beach Party or the all-new Elmo Rocks! Rock n’ roll show.  Your kids will have a blast rocking out with Elmo, Zoe, Cookie Monster, and the loveable duo, Bert and Ernie. If you know your kiddies won’t be able to cram all of the fun into just one afternoon, purchase Elmo’s Any 2 Day Ticket (you can visit another day at no additional charge) and stay overnight at one of the area’s many hotels.

What’s New: Sesame Place is celebrating its 30^th Birthday this year!  There will be many events throughout the summer to commemorate this milestone.  Beginning July 9^th, middle school children are invited to one of the “Friday Nights –Summer Nights Series” events.  The pre-teens and teenagers are invited to an exclusive after hour’s DJ dance party from 6:30-10:00 pm at Sesame Place.  Kids can mix and mingle, enjoy water rides, enter dance contests and win prizes throughout the evening.   Mark your calendar for July 30th and celebrate Sesame Place’s 30th Birthday with a beautiful fireworks display, set to a Sesame Street sound track. Fireworks are at 9pm on Friday only and twilight admission is not valid.   Then, on September 5^th, celebrate Labor Day with fireworks at 8:30pm.  For the best view of the night sky, have your family watch from the park’s front plaza!  The fun doesn’t stop once the kids go back to school.  The park is still open on weekends with plenty of special events to entertain the little ones.  On September 18th and 19^th, treat your kiddies to a Hip Hop Harry Live Concert.  Characters from the popular television show from Discovery Kids and TLC network will perform on the Sesame Place stage for three shows daily.  Hip Hop Harry, a loveable dancing bear will teach kids about art, dance, language, and music all through the use of hip hop fun!  Reservations are required for these shows.  And, on September 25, the park is open just for 2010 & 2011 Season Pass Members from 4:30– 7pm, complete with a live DJ and kids’ dance party.  Finally, beginning on September 25th through October 31^st (weekends only), celebrate Halloween at Sesame Place with the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular.  For more information, call 1-866-GO-4-ELMO or visit www.sesameplace.com

Mystic, Connecticut: Located on the banks of the historic Mystic River, this coastal village offers terrific restaurants, quaint shops, and of course, the Seaport.   Mystic Seaport is divided into four sections: a re-created 19^th Century Village, where guests can learn about each building’s role in a coastal community; the Waterfront, an area with tall ships and other historic vessels; the Preservation Shipyard, which restores antique vessels using traditional methods and tools; and Exhibits and Galleries, including “Mapping the Pacific Coast: Coronado to Lewis and Clark.”

What’s New: Tugs! – Mystic’s newest, interactive exhibit that explores the American tug, tow and barge industry.  This exhibit is for visitors of all ages and is open through spring 2011. For more information about this specific exhibit, check out www.mysticseaport.org/tugs.  Mystic Seaport Sundays – Guests are invited to come after 5 p.m. for free!  There will also be live music, food, and a cash bar at Spouter’s Tavern, and one of the most beautiful spots to watch a summer sunset in Mystic.  This is a great way for families, couples, or even singles to unwind and relax at the end of the day while enjoying the peaceful and beautiful grounds ( www.mysticseaport.org/summersundays).

Does your family enjoy boat rides?  If so, enjoy the sights of the Mystic River and take a cruise on the steamboat Sabino, or rent rowboats or sailboats from the Boathouse (www.mysticseaport.org/boathouse).  There are many authentic experiences to choose from as well, such as watching a blacksmith pound iron in the Shipsmith shop to conversing with an 1876 roleplayer that is strolling the grounds.  Mystic Seaport just launched a website sharing this “Earn Your Sea Legs” promotion and it can be found at www.earnyoursealegs.com. The site also features new 30-second TV spots, as well as great new special offers and discounts which always come in handy!  For more information, call 888-973-2767 or visit www.mysticseaport.org.

Hersheypark, Pennsylvania: Known as the “Sweestest Place on Earth,” this is a great family destination with plenty of sights and attractions.   The town of Hershey has made significant improvements in the past three years, resulting in $185 million worth of new offerings for guests. Hersheypark has more than 65 rides and attractions, including 11 roller coasters – more than any other park in Pennsylvania.  The park also features The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, which is home to nine water-based attractions.  One-price admission to Hersheypark provides access to all of those attractions and to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, which throughout 2010 is celebrating the 100^th anniversary of a zoo in Hershey. Guests can enjoy a ride on Great Bear, a looping inverted steel roller coaster, and then walk across the bridge to ZooAmerica to see real great bears.

What’s New: Adjacent to Hersheypark is Hershey’s Chocolate World, which this summer will debut “Create Your Own Candy Bar,” an interactive, hands-on attraction that immerses guests in the process of creating a candy bar. This first-of-its kind attraction gives consumers the ability to select their favorite candy bar ingredients, operate authentic factory equipment and design packaging for a custom candy bar.  Definitely leave a few hours of your trip for a stroll through Chocolate World as it provides a lot of hands-on activities and exhibits for the kids.  Plus, there are many places to buy delicious Hershey treats and desserts.  Save your calories and splurge for a sweet chocolate confection.  You’ll be glad you did!  For more information, call 1-800-HERSHEY (1-800-437-7439) or visit www.HersheyPA.com.

Peddler’s Village, Pennsylvania: For more than four decades, Peddler’s Village has been a popular leisure destination.  Located at Routes 202 and Street Road in Lahaska, this charming village offers a unique shopping and dining experience. Peddler’s Village features 70 quality specialty shops and six restaurants.  In addition, there is also the 70-room Golden Plough Inn and Giggleberry Fair family entertainment center.   Giggleberry Fair provides hours or fun for the entire family.  In addition to the beautifullyrestored 1922 Philadelphia Toboggan Company Grand Carousel, this 10,000 square foot attraction houses Giggleberry Mountain, the Game Room, the Painted Pony Café, and the newest attraction, Giggles Discovers.  Enjoy free seasonal festivals and year-round family events at Peddler’s Village.   For more information, please visit www.peddlersvillage.com or call 215-794-4000.

What’s New: The 32nd Annual Scarecrow Competition and Display is scheduled for September 6.  The competition will feature colorful scarecrow creations on outdoor public exhibits through October 24, 2010.  Participants enter their inventions in one or more of six imaginative categories. The public votes for their favorites, awarding thousands of dollars in cash prizes to the most spectacular creations. Admission to the display is free.  Don’t miss The 31^st Annual Scarecrow Festival on September 18-19, 2010.  This weekend of traditional family fun will include scarecrow-making workshops, pumpkin pie eating contests, pumpkin painting, live musical entertainment and children’s activities.

Jellystone National Park, Lancaster, Pennsylvania: If your kids enjoy camping, this is the place to have some old-fashioned fun with your family.  Plan on spending lots of time roasting marshmallows around the campfire, fishing, and getting back in touch with nature.  The campground has 165 campsites and 29 cabins situated on 63 wooded and rolling acres in scenic Southern Lancaster County.   Owned and operated by the Ryan family, they are celebrating their 21st season this year at Jellystone.

Deluxe and Rustic cabins are available for rental with full hook-up campsites.  Each rental comes with a picnic table and a fire ring.  The park also offers modern restrooms, laundry, propane, camp store/gift shop, and an arcade room.  Activities include:  pedal carts, volleyball, hayrides, movies, crafts, bingo, horseshoes, shuffleboard, bike rentals, visits from Yogi Bear, theme weekends and food events.  The park is adjacent to 100 acres of hiking trails and bird watching at the adjoining Theodore Parker Natural Area.  Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts are part of a National Franchise that has over 70 great parks in the US and Canada. For more information on the Jellystone Park in Quarryville, PA please visit their website at www.jellystonepa.com  The national website for all of the resorts is campjellystone.com.

What’s New: Jellystone has a new 40,000 sq. ft. interactive water playground and swimming/activity pool which is open daily through June 12.  Guaranteed to provide many hours of fun for your kiddies as well as the adults!  Pack your bathing suit and get ready to splash around and have some laughs at Jellystone this summer.

Woodloch Pines, Pennsylvania: Nestled in the pristine forests of the Pocono Mountains Lake Region of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Woodloch Resort is the ideal destination for family vacations, reunions, weddings and corporate retreats. Featuring a private lake and miles of beautiful scenery, this 250 acre resort is located only two and a half hours from New York City and is the perfect combination of old world charm, gracious hospitality, and modern resort conveniences.  The best of a Woodloch vacation is that your family doesn’t need to worry about paying for food and activities.  The all-inclusive packages provide three delicious meals daily, endless activities, nightly entertainment, amenities and a variety of accommodation choices from classic standard rooms, fully-furnished guest homes and waterview suites with private balconies. Family Circle Magazine recognized Woodloch as “One of the World’s Best Inclusive Resorts.”  Woodloch has also been recognized by Parents Magazine as one of the “Top Ten Best Winter Resorts.”  So, remember to keep it in mind when you’re planning a get-away during the winter months this year.

What’s New: New in 2010, Woodloch Pines will offer “A Night on the Town” Broadway-Style Theme Show and Comedian.  They resort also debuts a 28’ Rockwall for your climbing pleasure! This is sure to be a hit with the kids, as they are always up for a new adventure and challenge!

Lake George, New York:  If your Jersey Shore family is looking for a change of scenery, travel to upstate New York to this popular vacation destination located in the southern Adirondack Mountain region.  Lake George offers crystal-clear water and mountainous terrain in a beautiful and breathtaking setting.  Be sure to visit Million Dollar Beach on Lake George which is very clean and family friendly.  There are always trained lifeguards on duty.  Admission to the beach is “free” but the parking is $8 car and $3 per motorcycle. Million Dollar Beach has the best changing rooms and most “sand” of all the Lake George beaches.  There are also many other activities to keep the family busy and happy including: hot air ballooning, boat rides and cruises, fishing, golf, spa services, horseback riding, fireworks, farmers’ markets, min-golf, and parasailing.  As for lodging, your family can choose to stay in a traditional motel unit or a bed-and-breakfast if you prefer.  There are also numerous restaurants and ice cream shops to choose from throughout the area.  For more information about this family resort, check out the website lakegeorge.com.  The website is extremely informative and will provide lots of information regarding places to stay, eat, and activities for your family.

What’s New: Check out the Family Fun Festival which runs from July 5-9.  There will be many free events for the family throughout this five-day festival.  Be sure to see the Rock Band 2 Video Game Competition, the Lego and Duplo Building Contest and a Sand Castle Building Contest.

We hope Your Child Today’s “Top Nearby Family-Friendly Travel Destinations” will be a helpful resource for your family this summer.  Now that the kids have just finished school and are asking what the family will do this summer, it’s time to hit the computer and make some reservations.   Use this list to create a road trip which best suits your family.  If your kids are on the younger side, pick one of the closer spots and make it a day trip.  If you have older children, you may want to go further and spend a few days.  Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to take the time to enjoy your family and have fun making the memories that will last long after your trip is over.

PLEASE  POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT ANY OF THESE FAMILY- FRIEDNLY DESTINATIONS. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS.

Lately, whenever I walk around the house, I see one.  Maybe there’s a pink princess on the family room floor, a red pizza slice on the kitchen table, or a brown baseball bat on the sink in the bathroom.  Finding them in the bathroom really drives me crazy!  If you have a child over the age of five, you know what I’m talking about.  They’re Silly Bandz!  Chances are you have lots of these colorful rubber bracelets sprinkled throughout your house, just as I do.  These slinky rubber bands which are worn around the wrist are shaped like animals, musical instruments, princesses, sea creatures, flowers and many other things.  They are the latest kids’ craze and are the main topic of conversation in schools across the country.  In fact, some schools have even banned the bracelets because teachers and administrators find them to be too distracting.

The bracelets, which are made of colorful silicone molded in different shapes, return to the original shape when taken off the arm.  Usually, kids keep them in plastic baggies they can securely close so none of their precious commodities will get lost.  Half the fun is collecting the bracelets and the other half is trading them with friends, which helps keep the trend fresh and exciting.  These transactions can take place on the school bus, on the soccer field, at the lunchroom table, or anywhere else. Here’s how it works:  One kid will take a band off her wrist, hold it up, and ask what bands other kids will trade for it.  Then the transaction occurs.  According to one of my six-year-old daughters, once the trade is made, the deal is sealed.

“The person really has to make up their mind before they trade Silly Bandz, because when you trade it, you trade it and that’s it,” says Chloe.  “You’re never going to get that Silly Band back again.”

The fad, which hit stores about a year-and-a-half ago, is the brainchild of Toledo, Ohio businessman Robert Croak.  Many different suppliers sell virtually identical bands, all with different brand names, but most kids call them all “Silly Bandz.” BCP Imports has a trademark on that name. A spokesperson for the company says the number of employees at the main office shot from about 20 a year ago to almost 70 today.  At around $5 for a 24-pack, they’re a relatively cheap collectible.  This factor definitely contributes to their staying power and popularity.  Plus, they are sold pretty much everywhere moms and kids frequent on a regular basis like supermarkets or other local stores.  Pretty convenient, huh?

Penny Chandler, a Brick mother of four, fully understands the Silly Bandz craze.  Her girls actually look forward to going to the doctor because they know they can get Silly Bandz after the appointment.

“My four daughters, ages 5, 5, 3, and 2 receive Silly Bandz at our chiropractor’s office which we visit on a regular basis,” says Chandler.  “The girls really look forward to it!  They can exchange one if they have doubles, or just simply add to their collection!  They are crazy about displaying them at the dinner table and with friends wherever we go. My youngest daughter fell a few weeks ago, and it was then that I realized just how powerful these silly bands really are!  As she sat hysterically crying in my lap, a seven-year-old young man handed her a corn dog band which made her so happy.  It was like he gave her a million dollars!  It really helped dry up all of those tears!”

Wow!  Now they are a healing mechanism!  Being able to console a kid during a crying episode is quite significant.  So, just what does this fad have that drives kids over the edge and can wipe away the tears, too? My other six-year-old daughter, Chelsea, finds it exciting and fascinating to see which bands she’ll come across every day on the school bus.

“I like Silly Bandz because you can trade them and you can get different ones,” says Chelsea who particularly likes the glow-in-the-dark bands.    “It’s cool to trade them, but it’s a little hard, too.  Some people aren’t good traders.  You have to be careful.  The people who have the most Silly Bandz usually have the best ones.  That’s who I like to trade with.”

True twins who even think alike, Chloe wholeheartedly agrees with her sister and fellow Silly Bandz buddy.

“I like Silly Bandz because they are so cool,” says Chloe who likes the princess Silly Bandz the best.  “I like to trade with the kids who have the best ones because they might have the one that you really want.  Then, once you get it, you don’t have to worry about it anymore.  I’m just so happy that I can trade Silly Bandz.”

As if the excitement wasn’t enough, now kids can trade the Silly Necklace which debuted in June.  At the moment, they are only available online at sillybandz.com.  It will be interesting to see if the Silly Necklace will enjoy as much popularity as the bracelets in the upcoming months.  There’s one thing I know for sure: the Silly Bandz bracelets are here to stay for a long time in my household.  My daughters are so obsessed with looking for new packs in the stores and then trading with their friends, that I can’t even imagine them losing interest in this new hobby anytime soon.  Just when I thought we had enough Silly Bandz to last us a lifetime, I’m hit with another desperate request:  “Mom, can we get the New York Yankees Silly Bandz?  Please?  I don’t have them and they are my favorite baseball team!  Pretty please with a cherry on top!”  How can I resist?  Guess where I’ll be tomorrow morning?

By  Tricia Berwick

It’s hard to believe that in a few short months, another school year will be completed.  Summer is just around the corner and that means it’s time to start researching day camps for your kids.   Instead of sitting of sitting on the couch, munching on snacks, and flipping on the television switch or the computer, your child will have stimulating activities with peers.  You won’t have to answer the daily question of, “Mom, what are doing today?   Are we doing anything fun?”  If you decide on a camp experience this summer, that question will be taken care of and you can feel at ease that your child will be busy and productive while having a good time.

According to the American Camp Association, (www.acacamps.org), camp encourages children to explore and learn in a nurturing environment.  It’s also a good opportunity for your child to try new activities and to have a better idea of what he or she is good at and feels comfortable doing.   Sending your child to camp is an excellent way for your child to learn how to be independent, too.

Another important reason to send your child to camp this summer is simply to enjoy the fresh air and to experience nature.  Your child will go on guided nature walks and learn to truly appreciate nature.  It’s always great to take a break from the everyday routine and to see something new.  During the school year, kids are always busy with homework and after-school activities.  However, summer is the perfect time to slow down, have some fun, and enjoy the warm weather.  Camp is a great way for your child to do all of these things with his peers.

Before deciding on a camp, it’s a good idea to gather as much information as possible before you commit to one.   A good technique to find out whether a camp would be a suitable fit for your child is to network with other parents.  Getting feedback from those who have already experienced the camp is one of the best ways to determine if the camp would be a good option.  When speaking to parents, be sure to ask questions about what a typical day is like, how competitive the activities are, what the camp-to-counselor ratio is and how the counselors are screened and trained.

It’s also advisable to ask how counselors deal with difficulties that may arise.  For instance, how do they handle problems with discipline?  Do they call parents when there’s a problem?  It’s important to research the camp’s behavior policies before you sign on the dotted line.  Also, it’s not unreasonable to ask for references beforehand and to research the camp’s credentials.  Make sure to keep a checklist of your information to stay organized and focused while compiling research.

Another significant tip in the selection process is to determine what type of camp would work best for your child.  These days, there are many options to choose from, from traditional camps which feature nature and arts and crafts activities, as well as more specialized camps.  Does your child enjoying drawing pictures?  If so, an art camp would be appropriate.  If your child loves to shoot hoops, run the bases, and swim, a sports camp would be ideal. Or if your child likes dance, you could send her to a ballet camp.  Or perhaps even a camp which studies foreign languages or filmmaking.  Decide on a budget that your family can afford and then ask your child for input.

Point Pleasant Beach mother Joanna Madden, says she looks for a camp that can develop her children’s athletic abilities.

“What’s important to me is how well the counselors can coach my kids, especially my older child,” says Madden.  “My nine-year-old is really involved with sports, so finding theright sports camp is a key factor for my family.  If there’s a camp that is designated for a specific skill, I would be more willing to travel.  I also want to make sure the camp has a down-to-earth atmosphere and allows the kids to be social with others.”

Melissa Nagel, a mother of two, concurs with Madden and says that her kids, ages 5 and 3 have benefited from specialized camps in the past.

“The soccer camp we sent the kids to was small, with only three kids to a class which was great,” says the Point Pleasant mom.  “It was very specialized which helped them a lot.”

Other factors to consider are the cost and the location of the camp.  What is your family’s budget?  Sure, you would like your child to have a fun and rewarding summer camp experience, but it’s also important to determine what your family can reasonably afford.  What about location?  Is it better for the camp to be close to your job in case of an emergency, or should your child choose a local camp so he can socialize with kids from the neighborhood?  What about transportation to and from camp?  Will you be able to drive your child to camp or does the facility offer bus service?  Maybe you can coordinate a transportation schedule with another mom.  This way, one parent can take care of drop off and the other mom can be responsible for pickup.  It’s imperative to plan ahead and figure out the details before making a choice.

Once your family has decided on a particular camp, it’s important to register as early as possible.  Many times camps offer discounts if you commit before a certain date.  It’s also wise to book early if you have specific dates in mind that you would like your child to attend camp.

If you’re thinking about sending your child to camp this summer, start researching the Internet, visit some of the local camps and their staff, talk to other parents about their experiences, and ask your child what type of camp he or she would like to attend.   By working together as a team, you and your child will pick the best camp experience for the summer.

Spring is in the air and summer camp is on  everyone’s mind.  Once again Kum Sung will be offering an exciting summer  camp for children ages five through fourteen years old.  Sung Star  Academy will have a summer camp program for children ages one though five  years old at the learning center. There are openings for infants  6 weeks   through 12 months old year  round.

Day trips are  designed to entertain children ages 4 years old and up. Fun Town Pier, Peddles  and Paddles, bowling, movies, Pirate Adventure, Black Beard’s Cave and more is  planned.  Youngsters under the age of four are entertained daily in a  safe environment while at Sung Star Academy.  A developmentally  appropriate curriculum has been created by the director and staff.  It is  designed to provide stimulating and engaging experience, laughter and a great  desire to return to camp!

Water play,  wading pools, sprinklers are readily available daily for our children to cool  off with.  The greatest amount of fun seems to be found at  our in ground pool. Sung Star campers will receive swim lessons as well as free daily swiming.   It is refreshing to see our older and younger siblings catching up with  each other around the pool and outdoor playground. Our water slide, moon  bounce, DJ dance party and spectacular end of the year  celebration all contribute to the KS tradition of summer  fun.

Sports such as soft ball, basket  ball, field hockey, and beach volley ball are offered daily.   Along  with making arts and crafts  kids love to create “art like” edible snacks  and devour them for lunch! Games, contests and in camp competitions are part  of the fun.

Older campers will be  taught the importance of exercise and nutrition.  K.S. programs are  designed and supervised by experienced educators and top fitness experts.  There is also a focus on self confidence,independence, physical activity and  leadership building in a positive atmosphere.

Most importantly the children receive  Martial Arts and karate training weekly.  Intergrated through karate, is  the teaching of inner strength, loyalty, courage, bravery, kindness and most  importantly respect.  Students are exposed to positive and strong  character building. The expectation of K.S. is designed to expose your  children to these behaviors by creating life lessons.  Several parents  have shared that after the camp experience ended their sons/daughters have  become more aware of the place respect holds for  them.

All of the Kum Sung  instructors are high achieving Masters. When instructors are so well trained  in the art and life lesson of martial arts it transcends with ease to the  students, sending a strong message.  Providing this experience came  through years of their own positive experience and training with Grand Master  Kum Sung.  The karate classes are presented on introductory basis as well  as training those that may be of a higher rank.

For children spending their summer at           For children spending their summer at Sung Star Academy, Grand Master and his wife Youn have designed the highly successful program that exposes and begins training youngster at the age of two!  Parents are amazed by the quick growing achievements they can actually see in their toddlers in minimal time!

A plus for our working parents is that we offer before and after care hour services from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm without an additional charge! The traditional camp day is from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Kum Sung and Sung Star camps are open for the entire summer beginning on June 15th through August 28th.

For our Brick campers transportation is provided to the main camp site.  Drop off is a 7:30 am and the bus departs at 8 am.  End of the day pick up is at 4pm. In addition, Brick campers are invited to attend additional karate classes at no additional cost. ( Brick & Toms River Locations)

Many of our children and families are return campers .  Whether you are  a new  camper or a returning camper, the  Kum Sung  experience is fantastic fun!  According to a KS family, “what the children experienced during K.S. camp were positive experiences and life lessons!”

For More Information

Visit our website at: www.Kumsungkarate.com

732-341-8800 www.sungstaracademy.com

732-341-7500

Zipline, swimming and horseback riding are highlights at Day Camp with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore

Fun is the number one priority this summer at Amity Acres Day Camp and Sacajawea Day Camp.

At convenient locations in Waretown and Farmingdale, campers choose from activities that include zip line, swimming, arts and crafts and performing arts.

Specialty programs include teen leadership development, cooking and horse care and riding. To maximize the fun, optional campfires and overnights are available as well.

“The joy that I felt that she was able to learn new things and meet new friends is overwhelming,” said the mom of a camper from Keansburg. “That’s what I remember the Girl Scouts to be from when I was younger – sharing with one another, learning new things and having fun.”

“Girl Scout camp was a wonderful experience for my daughter!” added an Ocean County mother whose 8-year-old daughter attended Amity Acres Day Camp. “Everyday she was so proud of herself for trying something new. We can’t wait until camp next summer!”

Girls ages 5 and through 15 are welcome at Amity Acres Day Camp, which runs from June 28 through August 20. A special Twilight Camp is available afternoons the week of June 21 to get girls excited for the summer of fun ahead.

“Amity Acres is an exceptional place for day camp. They had very good staff there; every one was nice, including other campers,” said the mother of a 9-year-old camper.

In addition to girls 5-15, Sacajawea Day Camp also offers a Tag-A-Long unit for brothers ages 5 thorough 11. Among the new program additions this year is a Firefly Unit for 3- and 4-year-old girls and boys.

“I’ve gone to Camp Sacajawea for the past three years. I would like to say thank you to you and all my counselors. I had a great time at camp. I love the activities. I especially like swimming, archery, boating, the Thursday night campfire and learning about nature. However, I don’t like the bugs! You are doing a great job,” said a camper from Seaside Heights.

Operated by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Amity Acres and Sacajawea Day Camps provide girl-led and girl-focused activities, rooted in Girl Scout values and traditions. Its counselors support, nurture and care for girls, encouraging them to try new activities and make new friends.

“My daughter, Abigail attended Sacajawea and she loves it,” said a mother from Middletown. “She has worn her Camp Sac shirt every day; I had to wash it every night. My husband just bought two more!”

Outdoor fun is all around as girls safely fly through the trees on a zip line, paddle around the scenic lake in a canoe, kayak or paddleboat, or learn to take aim at success at the archery range.

Bus service, before and after care options make life easy for parents. Basic camp costs start at only $135 per week at Amity Acres Day Camp and $220 per week at Sacajawea Day Camp. Many discounts are available to make a summer of fun more affordable.

For more information about Amity Acres Day Camp, visit www.amityacresdaycamp.com or call (732) 751-2755. Sacajawea Day Camp can be reached at www.sacajaweadaycamp.com or call (732) 751-2766.

Parents may be familiar with The Goddard School® and its exceptional academic program for children from six weeks to six years old, but are parents as familiar with Goddard’s summer program? The summer program is a unique blend of fun and learning.

Goddard’s energetic teams of teachers plan summer days filled with developmentally appropriate activities that foster children’s skill building, self-confidence, and cognitive development. Children learn about creepy crawlers, send letters to pen pals, and ‘travel’ to the stars in a positive atmosphere that offers the ideal balance to the school year.

As important as the learning component is to parents, an equally important factor is the opportunity for children to socialize and build memories that will last a lifetime.  Every aspect of the summer program at The Goddard School® takes these corresponding needs into account.

Goddard’s exceptional summer program includes:

• Science and Nature

• Arts and Crafts

• Drama

• Computers and Technology

• Literature and Language

• Cooking

• Music and Movement

• Sports and Games

• Manners

• Special Visitors

Goddard’s summer program is parents’ choice for a safe and nurturing program.   Each school develops a unique learning experience for the children in their neighborhood.  Teachers create lesson plans based on Goddard Developmental Guidelines in order to provide a stimulating experience full of age-appropriate activities and oodles of fun.

As important as the learning component is to parents, an equally important factor is a safe environment.  Goddard answers this aspect with its comprehensive Goddard Quality Assurance Review.  While Goddard Schools must maintain state regulations, they are additionally required to meet the stringent standards of Goddard QA to ensure health and safety as well as curriculum standards in their schools.

Goddard Schools’ summer calendars include special visitors and cultural events throughout the summer.  Visitors provide exciting learning opportunities, in a safe environment, and may include, community helpers; performances by storytellers, musicians, and magicians; as well as outreach programs through local museums.

To learn more about the Goddard

summer program in your

neighborhood, please call

1-800-GODDARD or visit www.goddardschool.com.

Imagine a week where you go on a field trip on Monday, went swimming on Tuesday, had water play on Wednesday, moon bounce on Thursday, had a special guess visitor on Friday at your ultimate scavenger hunt pajama party.  Imagine that days are filled with science experiments, fun games, education, research and lot of arts and crafts.  YOU CAN”T WAIT TO RETURN TOMORROW.

We have planned summer camp activities filled with fun educational experience to create memories that will last a life time. From visiting the Statue of Liberty and Eliis Island to taking a cruise to see dolphins in their natural habitat to hands on experience at the Liberty Center, we have you covered.

One day your children are scientists discovering new facts with fun experiments, digging for fossils at a park and net fishing identifying different local aquatic species. Another week they are artistes at a live play, and being part of a silent masquerade ball where they have to use clues to find the missing jewel.  They will be pirates and take a real voyage and find the villain and win the prize. They will swim weekly and be entertained every week.  They will have so much fun they won’t even know they are learning.  And if you don’t tell we promise we won’t.

Join us at Tutor Time where learning is fun, because it’s always a fun day at Tutor Time.

Choose from our CUB CAMP for children ages 3-5years and ADVENTURE CAMP for children ages 5-12years old.

Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty * Poricy Park Fossil Hunt

Pirate Adventures * Cattus Island Beach Combing

Point Pleasant Beach and Amusement Park * Gymboree

Creative Experience * Bagel Making at Shore Bagels & Deli

Point Pleasant Aquarium * Weekly swimming

Discovery Children’s Museum * Sky Line Dolphin Cruise

Classes now forming for Sports,Parent/Child, Tumbing and

Music Classes.

732-262-0037

There are so many fun and exciting activities that will take place at Ocean Gymnastics Academy’s Sizzling Summer Camp.  Gymnastics plus so much more fun fill each and every moment of our camp.  As in previous years, our campers tend to educate their parents with facts obtained from each of the weeklythemes.  This year’s themes include:

*UNDER THE SEA* SUMMER FUN

*KNIGHTS,PRINCESS,AND CASTLES

* MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

*EXTINCT AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

* GO WITH THE FLOW

At Ocean Gymnastics Academy children are respected for their feelings, supported for their desire to explore, and encouraged to feel powerful.  Our goal is to help our campers gain a sense of competence in all areas of development within our camp.  At all times the development of our campers self-esteem and confidence is of paramount importance.

Ocean Gymnastics Camp is extremely fast paced, and there is never a dull moment.  Campers constantly rotate from project to project, to gymnastics, to projects, to snack, and back to gymnastics.  A stage provides campers with the unique opportunity to entertain fellow campers with joke telling, songs, dance, or whatever else they would like to perform.  IT’S ALL ABOUT OUR CAMPERS!

Allow your child to experience and grow in a loving, fun, and safe atmosphere which encourages positive self-esteem and fun learning.

WE KNOW HOW TO HAVE FUN AT

OCEAN GYMNASTICS’ SUMMER CAMP!!!

1200 Fischer Blvd. • Toms River

732-270-4500

Help your kids avoid the summer slide with Mathnasium of Toms River’s MATH CAMP! Summer is a great time to catch up and get ahead!  In our relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables students to focus on what they need most. Students keep their minds active throughout the summer months by participating in programs designed to develop, maintain, and challenge their math skills and understanding.

According to directors Wayne Gray, Barbara Koehler, and Neil Rankin, all students can excel in school and on standardized tests when they’re given the chance to really understand the materials. When they start the school year prepared, without losing two or three months of knowledge, the results astound parents.  All of a sudden, homework and tests are a totally different experience!

Mathnasium of Toms River is offering a MATH CAMP for July and August.  Students can attend Mathnasium for as little as 4 weeks and as long as 9 weeks. The center will be open from 10AM – 12PM and from 3PM - 7PM Monday to Thursday. Students are encouraged to attend two times a week for one hour each session.

The MATH CAMP programs are specifically designed to help children get ready for the next school year in a more relaxed environment.  In addition, students who will be taking Algebra, Geometry, or Algebra II in the fall can work on a Preview Course at Mathnasium during the summer.   Mathnasium’s MATH CAMP students find learning math is fun, rewarding, and even inspiring!

For more information on

Mathnasium of Toms River, or to register for a MATH CAMP session, please call 732-255-MATH(6284)

or send an email to tomsriver@mathnasium.com

BBQs,Beaches, & Better Grades!

Eagle’s Crest Summer Camp

“WHERE FRIENDSHIPS LAST FOREVER”

Quality and Affordable Summer Camp for every family!

Summer camp is about personal growth, friendships and fun. Our job as camp professionals is to create an atmosphere that enables kids to experience the freedom of summer in ways that they could not at home. It is an opportunity for campers and staff alike to build new friendships and experience new things.

At Holy Family’s Eagle’s Crest Summer Camp we try to think of ourselves as cruise directors giving these young people a different experience each day that they attend camp.  Our great facility enables us the opportunity to provide sports, water activities, fine arts, carnivals and so much more.

We see our campers as “unique” and unique children need unique opportunities. At camp they get to do things that they never did before. Our best days are when campers do not want to leave camp or leave saying, “guess what I did today”!

Most camps offer similar activities. But we offer something that most camps can only hope to achieve.  All of our counselors are former students.  Every counselor has a special tie to Holy Family School and when people care about something it creates a very special place!

Our principal goals are to help our campers learn something about themselves and to promote a healthy respect for each other and the values that we stand for.  Our Kinder, Junior, and Teen Leadership Camps do exactly that, by creating a one of a kind camp experience for all.

By Sue Gerard

This family resort has withstood the test of time.  Rocking Horse Ranch has been around since 1958.  It was originally established by Toolie and Gloria Turk who were from NewYork City but had a love of horses.  They wanted to create a resort that was a little less “rustic” than your typical dude ranch of the day, and more family friendly.  They converted one of the oldest hotels in Ulster County New York in a town called Highland.  They worked on the property during the week and catered to guests on the weekends.  It was the first and only ranch in the country to have an indoor and outdoor pool, water skiing, snow skiing, a nightclub and dozens of other activities in their facility.

After 10 years, business was booming and improvements were continually made to better satisfy guests.  Then tragedy struck in January 1971.  The Turks life’s work and dreams went up in flames during a New Year’s weekend fire.  All the guests were safe, but only the brick walls and chimney were left standing.  They decided to rebuild and made it bigger and better than before.  Now it truly was “their” structure and they have been thriving ever since.

I personally have been to this ranch twice in the winter months.  It was highly recommended by a friend who had taken her family there in both the summer and winter.  It is just under a 3 hour drive from Brick, so it’s not a bad ride to get there.  They even provide free pickup service from the Poughkeepsie Train Station or Stewart Airport if that’s your preferred method of travel.

I decided to go to Rocking Horse Ranch the first time in February 2009 after researching prices to take my kids skiing for the first time.  They were only 4, 6 and 8 so I needed to get each of them lessons and we all needed ski rentals.  Without even staying over anywhere, I was floored by the cost.  I looked into Rocking Horse Ranch and they were offering a special price the week before President’s Weekend.  Although I had to pull the kids out of school, we were able to book 3 days and 2 nights with them for not too much more than one afternoon at a Pocono based ski resort!

We had so much fun that we decided to try and go back about every other year, but we couldn’t stay away and went again this year!  The resort allows you to arrive as early as you’d like and use their facility even if you can’t check into your room.  They also let you stay as late as you’d like on your last day.  We got up early and arrived at 10:00am which is when the ski slopes open up.  My kids were so excited to try this new sport!  When we first arrived, our initial reaction to the size of their hills was disappointment.  However, once we realized the two of us hadn’t been on a ski slope for over 10 years, the hill seemed much bigger and more manageable!  And… it was so perfect for the kids.

As long as the temperatures remain low enough, RHR has 100% snow making ability.  They have a ski rental room where you fill out a form your first day with a release and all your pertinent information.  That form gets filed during your stay so all you have to do is give them your name and they pull out the right size boots and skis for you each time.  You get to know the staff very quickly while you are there since it is a very personal experience.  There is a bunny hill to learn on (they call it the “never ever area”) with instructors right there to help you learn how to snowplow and turn and use the rope lifts.  After one morning of lessons my boys were going half way up “the big hill” and by the second day they were going all the way to the top and skiing down by themselves.  You can ski from 10am to 4pm daily.

All your meals at Rocking Horse Ranch are included in the price of your stay.  On your first day, you don’t get lunch so prepare ahead for that if you plan to arrive early like we did.  We packed a lunch and ate it in the lobby which has many inviting couches, seats and tables, a bar and a fireplace.  There is also a side room (called the Round-up Room) with more seating, a big table and a TV.  That room has hot chocolate and coffee available with free food such as pound cake, cookies, brownies, etc.  There is also free At the dining room, you are seated with other guests at tables of 8 or 10.  The Turks wanted to set it up this way so that guests had a chance to mingle and get to know each other.  Breakfast and lunch are buffet style and there is a great variety to choose from.  Dinner is ordered from a menu of about 5 appetizer choices and 5 dinner choices.  They wanted to avoid a buffet style at every meal and give the guests the chance to “be served.”

Guests come mainly from Long Island, New York City, Westchester, north and central New Jersey, Connecticut and Massachusetts.  The general demographics of their average guest family has kids that range in age from 2 to 13.  They do not charge for children under age 4.  They have a supervised day camp and nursery for the youngest guests if you care to take advantage of that, and have activities for the tweens and teens too!  There is a Wii room where you can play wii games for free, as well as an arcade room with various video games and a ping pong table.  Every evening they have entertainment.  The ranch scouts for their entertainment in New York City as well as via the internet and by holding trial runs at the ranch.  A musical guest generally starts off and the headliner is either a magician, ventriloquist, juggler, circus act, comedian or general family entertainer!  All the acts we’ve seen were great and fun for the whole family.  We made sure we didn’t miss any of them while we were there.

Also during the winter months they offer night snow tubing from 7-9:30, weather permitting.  At the base of the run they have a bonfire where you can keep warm and provide marshmallows for roasting after a frosty ride!  By the end of the day, the tubing trail gets slick so the rides are fun and fast!  Another activity you don’t want to miss!

Although we’ve only been there in the winter, their busiest season begins at the end of June when school lets out and runs through Labor Day.  They are always at full capacity with 120 rooms booked solid.  They have a main lodge and a detached lodge called the Oklahoma Building.  The main lodge has 2 room sizes which can accommodate up to 4 people, or up to 6 people.  Bunk beds are provided in the larger rooms and some even connect with other rooms if you are staying with other families.  Oklahoma rooms are less expensive but only hold up to 2 people, or up to 6 people.  More rooms are expected to be built in coming years.

In the summer, the activities are endless.  They have a lake on site.  They provide waterskiing rides where you are taken around the lake 3 times and have a bar on the side of the boat to hold onto which is easier than attempting to get up when pulled by a rope.  There is no age limit; you just need to know how to swim.  They also have banana boat rides where you have up to 10 people straddling a big banana boat that is pulled by a ski boat.  For those that want a more serene ride, you can go kayaking or get on a paddle boat and ride around the lake.

There is catch and release fishing for fresh water bass.  You can play miniature golf, tennis, horseshoes, bocce ball and shuffle board.  There is both organized and “pick up” play for basketball, volleyball and softball.  For the adult crowds, there is “beer” softball and “beer” volleyball activities which are always a hoot.  There is the outdoor pool to utilize in the summer, as well as the indoor pool all year round.  You feel like you are on a campus with something to do at every turn.

Of course, we can’t forget about the horses.  There is horseback riding available every day.  They have 4 trail rides times during the week and 6 on the weekends.  There are 3 levels of rides including beginners, novice and advanced.  The beginner trail rides are the most popular and they have many wranglers along the trails making sure everyone has control of their horses.  You walk along the wooded trails at that level.  The novice riders do get to trot a little.  If you don’t have the skills to maintain proper control of your horse, then they will take you over to the beginner riders.  The advanced riders get to canter (gallop) with the horses along the trails.  The saddles are western so you have to be comfortable in that style.  I rode horses as a young girl but learned English so I was actually dropped down to novice when I was told I wasn’t keeping my but in the saddle!  I’m used to being up on my heels and posting!  All trail rides take about an hour and you must be 7 years old to ride.

If you have a younger child 6 or under, don’t worry, they have pony rides!  You can take your child over to the small area in the morning from 9:30-12:30 or after lunch between 2 and 3pm.  A staff member will walk your child around on a pony and you can ride as much and as often as you want.  Horse drawn hay rides are also available throughout the day.  They pick you up by the tennis courts and take you through the woods for a short ride.

Other activities which are available year round include the fun barn and rifle range.  The rifle range includes a shooting gallery and indoor archery.  The rifles shoot at an array of black light targets with air powered BB’s.  The fun barn is an indoor facility off by itself that’s great to visit as its own activity or a filler in between other events you are planning in your day.  There is a foam factory with interactive soft play with 10 air powered cannons, a climbing wall, a moon bounce, volleyball net and ping pong tables.  My kids love to go there.

There are activities and special events planned for each and every day.  These may include such things as riding demonstrations, tour of the stables, sports trivia, bingo, character lunches in the dining room, shoot out contest, scavenger hunts, horse betting, karaoke, arts & crafts, line dancing, etc, etc.  A schedule is available when you check in or can be picked up at any time at the front desk during your stay.

Don’t forget to take some time out for yourself.  Relax, rejuvenate and refresh yourself at the massage and facial center.  These services are not included in the price but rates are competitive.  There is also a fully equipped exercise room and men and women sauna rooms to enjoy.

New in 2009 is the Big Splash Indoor Water Park.  It was an expansion to the indoor pool area and now includes interactive fountains and dumping buckets, twin slides for toddlers, a water walk challenge with cargo netting, mini geysers and a 230 foot giant waterslide.

Don’t forget to visit their Gift Shoppe located right in the lobby.  I love to get Christmas tree ornaments from our vacations and they have a few on hand.  It’s always nice to go home with a souvenir so you can be reminded of the wonderful stay you had at Rocking Horse Ranch!

Over the next 5 years, they are planning to add on about 30 more rooms, increase the size of their dining room (and possibly have the option of eating at your own table instead of with other guests), provide a public meeting space, add on to their new indoor water slides and change their ski rope lifts to a magic carpet lift.  They are constantly looking for ways to attract and maintain their guests as well as keep them happy while they are there.  We sure were happy every time we went and are looking forward to our next visit!

Rocking Horse Ranch is located at 600 Route 44/45 Highland, NY 12528.  You can contact them at 1-800-647-2624 or visit their website at www.rockinghorseranch.com. There is a lot of information on the site and rates are posted for various seasons.  I also suggest signing up for their email list so you can take advantage of promotions and specials.

Character Party Meals

Food + Characters = Fun!

By Tricia Berwick

Between school, work, and after school activities, many area families have hectic, crazy weeks.  After rushing around from dance class to soccer practice, sometimes preparing a family meal becomes a dreaded chore.  Instead of stressing over what to feed the troops, pile everyone into the car and head to “Kid’s Night” at Perkins or Boston’s Gourmet Pizza.  Your whole family can enjoy a tasty meal together, while the kids will be entertained with characters and games.

On Wednesday evenings from 5-8 pm at Perkins Restaurants in Wall Township, Toms River, and Lacey Township, kids will have the opportunity to visit with some of their favorite cartoon characters, like Elmo, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Boots from Dora the Explorer.

Jamie Deleo, the General Manager of Perkins Restaurant in Wall, says the kids really look forward to meeting the stars from their favorite television shows and movies.

“Having this type of night really brings the kids into the restaurant and they are so happy while they are here,” says Deleo.  “We usually have the same customers come in every week.  Since the characters change every Wednesday, it’s always something different for the kids.  The schedule is usually booked two months in advance, so the customers can call in advance to see who will be appearing.”

Deleo says that kids are also treated to a free balloon, cookie, and a small toy, such as a stuffed animal or puzzle.

On Tuesday nights at Boston’s Gourmet Pizza in Neptune and Toms River, kids will enjoy a similar type of experience.  Your little ones will be able to high five a costumed character, watch a balloon animal being made, and even have their faces painted.  Plus, kids eat free with each paid adult entrée.

Toms River Manager Katie Driscoll says the “Kid’s Night” program has been very successful since it began when the restaurant opened its doors over a year ago.

“The kids are encouraged to get up from the tables and talk to the characters and interact with them,” says Driscoll.  “They’re also encouraged to make friends with the other kids.  The parents love it because they get to sit down and eat while the kids are being entertained.  They can relax for a little while.”

The entertainment at both of these establishments is provided by Kiddy Parties which brings quality children’s entertainment to families in the Jersey Shore area.

The strength of this company, which has been in business for over ten years, is its founder, Lory Bradford.  This mom of two is a natural-born performer and loves being able to bring smiles to children’s faces.  After working in children’s community theatre for a few years, one of Bradford’s colleagues approached her with the idea of hosting private parties for kids.

“At the end of the children’s shows, kids were allowed to ask the performers questions,” says Bradford who has taken numerous professional acting classes.  “The kids always seemed to gravitate to me.  They liked to talk and to ask about the performances.  One of my friends noticed this and then put the idea in my head that I might be good at entertaining children for private parties.  She got me started doing my first party and the parents loved me so much they gave me a very generous tip.”

After that successful first party, Bradford was able to book another party and then yet another.   Word quickly spread that Bradford had a talent for making kids happy.  And, when it comes to making kids happy at parties, parents are willing to pay for good, quality entertainment.  After an assortment of referrals and positive recommendations, Bradford decided to launch her own business.

Bradford and her staff have a blast entertaining children in many ways.  In addition to being dressed as your child’s favorite costumed character, the entertainers will engage the kids in face painting, tattoos, make-up and glitter, play games with all of the children, pose for pictures, blow out the candles, and even stay for some scrumptious birthday cake.  Even while Bradford and her staff is busy painting silly shapes and colorful designs onto kids’ faces, they are still working the crowd by singing songs and telling funny jokes to the little ones.

When kids see a costumed character walk into a party or a restaurant, their eyes always widen in amazement and wonder as they flock to get closer to their beloved superhero or favorite princess.  Parents rush to grab their cameras and snap pictures of the kids as their eyes are glued to these larger than life characters.  However, there’s always one kid in the bunch who isn’t very happy to see this added person on the guest list.   Maybe he or she is shy and off in a corner or nervous about seeing the characters up close.  That’s when Bradford works her magic.

“There’s always one child who is off on his own and isn’t too interested in the characters,” says Bradford.  “But, by the time the party is over, that child is smiling, participating in the other activities, and having fun with all of the kids.  As the saying goes, the show must go on!”

With so many characters and activities to choose from, it’s hard to imagine anyone not having a good time.  Between the special guests, fun games, and lots of singing, there’s always something going on to keep the kids happy.  Even if a person is not in the best of spirits before the start of the party, it’s difficult not to have a smile on your face by cake-cutting time.

“I like that no matter what type of mood I’m in before the party, when I’m finished, I’m in a terrific mood,” says Bradford.  “I just love to watch all of the kids’ faces and to make people laugh.  I really enjoy making the all of the kids giggle at these parties.  That’s the best part for me.”

If you would like to experience Bradford’s magic and her talent for making children happy, check out one of the “Kid’s Night” programs at either Boston’s or Perkins Restaurants.

If your child has a birthday coming up and you’re not sure what to plan for this year’s celebration, surprise your child with something special.  Browse through the Kiddy Parties website www.kiddyparties1.com and design your own party package.  Let the experts entertain all of your party guests this year. For more information, you can also give them a call at 732-202-9449.

By Tricia Berwick

You have every book and magazine article on what to expect when your new baby arrives. A few relatives have provided some valuable words of wisdom regarding newborn care, too. However, you’re still very apprehensive about how you’re actually going to deliver this new life and what will really happen when your bundle of joy enters the world. Your questions are endless: How am I going to survive the birthing process? What are my options to help with the pain? Will I be able to successfully feed my baby? When is it reasonable for a baby to sleep through the night? What happens if my baby gets sick? Will I know how to soothe and console my crying infant? How will I be able to take care of baby and still do the laundry, cook dinner, and have a little time for myself? Will my husband and I ever be able to go out again?

If you would like these questions and others discussed and answered by someone who has years of experience with infants, sign up for Sung Star Academy’s newest program called, “Baby Basic Classes for Expecting Parents.” Kellie Schmitt, a registered nurse at Sung Star Academy in Toms River, will conduct the four-week session which begins on June 22. The brand-new class is geared for first-time moms and dads who are looking for some valuable information during this exciting time of parenthood. The classes are not formal, so expectant moms can come dressed in comfortable clothes or bring whatever else they may need (such as a support pillow) to make the class a more enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

Schmitt hopes to educate new parents during this program by showing them real-life techniques and strategies about caring for infants.
“Being a new parent is a very overwhelming experience,” says Schmitt. “You read all about it in a book, but you don’t know what to expect when it’s your own child; you feel helpless. Knowing as much as you can to help you and your child is beneficial.”

The first class, titled, “The Birthing Experience” will provide useful information about the labor and delivery process, including what to expect if a caesarian-section is required. Options for pain management will also be discussed. Questions will be answered regarding who is allowed in the delivery room, the father’s role and what is expected of him as his wife’s labor coach, and the recovery process after the birth. During this two-hour class, Schmitt will show a film called, “The Stages of Labor” to give both parents an idea of what exactly will take place in the delivery room.

The second class, called “Bringing Home Baby” will help parents learn about proper newborn care. Even with years training, Schmitt says everything changes when it’s your own child and you’re alone with an inconsolable, crying infant.

“I’m an experienced nurse, but when I first brought home my baby, I didn’t know the difference between a hunger cry or a cry that meant the baby was in pain,” says Schmitt. “It’s very scary and overwhelming at the beginning and this class will help parents learn how to care for their newborn. Some fathers have never even held a baby, so this is good, hands-on practice so they can be prepared. We’ll also discuss how to properly diaper and swaddle a baby, crib safety, and which products to buy.”

In the third class, Schmitt will discuss how to bond with baby and the importance of developing a strong and reliable support system of caregivers. The first few weeks and months can be extremely overwhelming, so it’s important for parents to enlist the help of loved ones whom they trust to help out whenever needed. For example, maybe a grandparent or caregiver can take care of baby while mom or dad takes a much needed nap. Or maybe someone could go shopping or run a few errands for the family. It’s critical for the parents to receive assistance during this period of adjustment. Schmitt will also discuss how to combat the “baby blues” which many new moms experience during the first few weeks of parenthood. In addition, survival strategies will be discussed such as sleeping when the baby sleeps or making easy, stress-free dinners in the crock pot. The main goals of this class are to make the parents’ lives easier by devising coping mechanisms and developing a loving and trustworthy support system of caregivers.

The last class will discuss when it’s necessary to contact the doctor with medical concerns and issues. Schmitt will go over the symptoms of reflux, which affects many newborns and how to help infants overcome colic.

“Acid Reflux is a common problem with babies,” says Schmitt. “We will go over what parents can do to help their babies to relieve some of the symptoms such as elevating the crib or keeping baby upright for thirty minutes after a feeding.”

However, even with all of the ideas and tips to help make baby feel better, Schmitt will tell parents that they should always feel comfortable to call the child’s pediatrician with any concerns or questions.

“I always tell parents not to hesitate to call the doctor, even if it’s in the middle of the night,” says Schmitt. “That’s what they are there for. Parents should never feel embarrassed about calling the doctor.”

At the end of the four-week program, parents will receive a basket of baby goodies to use upon baby’s arrival. Also, if a family decides to register a child for any of Sung Star Academy’s future classes, the school will automatically waive the registration fee. If this program sounds like something you and your spouse would find beneficial, contact the school at 732-341-7500, or visit sungstaracademy.com for more information.