New York Family’s December 2013 Issue

Our December cover girl Betsy Brandt; photo by Michael Jurick; on Betsy Brandt: Shoshanna dress, Stephanie Kantis gold cuff bracelet; location: The JCC in Manhattan

Features

Breaking Fab
Rising star, mother of two, and New York newcomer Betsy Brandt makes an elegant transition from “Breaking Bad” to sitcom sweetheart on “The Michael J. Fox Show”

The Gift Of Giving Back
Celebrate both the true spirit of the holiday season as well as the core of New York City’s sense of community with some of our favorite local, family-centric charities

Got Class?
A sneak peek into the varied enrichment offerings coming this winter, from arts and music to sports and dance

Family Fun Guide

10 Great Events For December
Pirate School, “A Christmas Story,” “Peter & the Wolf,” and more

The Ultimate Checklist For A Classic NYC Holiday
A guide to the best tress, Santas, lights, “Nutcracker” shows, window displays, and seasonal shopping locales

The Center Of It All
New York City’s premier hub for the performing arts, Lincoln Center, is many children’s first introduction to opera, ballet, jazz, and—of course—the circus

Home & Away

Travel
Sweet ski escapes near NYC, plus our editor’s picks for fab family winter break resorts

Quality Time
Add creative flair to a holiday crafting staple—paper snowflakes—with our step-by-step tips

Columns

Editor’s Note
Hands Off, Hands On

Events & Offers
A 74th St. MAGIC giveaway, New York Family’s upcoming Camp Fairs, and the scoop on the ultimate moms’ night out

Scoop
Cute clothes from Cabbages & Kings NY, the latest in LEGO news, a memory-keeping app for parents, and more

Lysst
Great gifts—both luxurious and understated—for grownups (because the holidays aren’t only about the kids)

Treats
The most fun and festive toys of the year for all the little sugar plums on your nice list

Parent In Profile
After years of supporting parents of multiples in both local and national organizations, NYC mom Natalie Diaz has written a book about everything she’s learned

Activity Of The Month
Young NYC gymnasts from a variety of gyms and programs give us their tips on sticking it

The Last Word
A local mom remembers her twins’ first Christmas in the NICU

Relevant Directory Listings

See More

Atlantic Acting School

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">Looking for a fun and exciting theater program for kids and teens? Join us at the Atlantic. Our programs are intense, exciting and fun!</span></p>

Steps on Broadway Youth Programs

<p class="m_6201101365486487057m_1751229968981391907gmail-m-6447730382188674378msonospacing" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For 40 years, the Youth Programs at the internationally celebrated Steps on Broadway have nurtured young dancers, ages 18 months to 18 years.  Whether seeking a fun dance experience or comprehensive pre-professional training, there is a program suited for everyone.  Classes include ballet, tap, jazz, theater dance, hip hop, contemporary, modern, pointe and more.  Taught by a faculty of internationally-recognized concert, ballet, Broadway and celebrated guest artists, every student is encouraged to discover their artistic uniqueness, deepen their passion for the art form, while growing as dancers and individuals. </span><u></u><u></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 10pt; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #5a5a5a;">Classes are offered throughout the academic year and summer.</span><u></u><u></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 10pt; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #5a5a5a;">First Steps (ages 18 mos – 5 yrs)</span><u></u><u></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 10pt; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #5a5a5a;">Kids & Teens (ages 6-18 yrs)</span><u></u><u></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px 0px 10pt; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #5a5a5a;">Pre-Professional Program (ages 7-18 yrs, by audition only)</span></p>

Color Me Mine

<p>Color Me Mine Upper West Side proudly stands as a minority woman-owned studio, and we've been an integral part of the Color Me Mine franchise system since 2018! Pottery painting isn't just an activity; it's a captivating and inclusive experience that transcends age and skill levels.</p> <p>At Color Me Mine Upper West Side, we extend a warm invitation to dive into a realm of creativity, self-expression, and connection. Families, friends and teams grow stronger bonds when they create memories together, and at Color Me Mine, we're here to help facilitate those moments.</p> <p>Whether you're seeking a delightful family outing, a unique date night, or a solo adventure, our paint-your-own-pottery studio offers boundless possibilities. Step into our welcoming space in the heart of Lincoln Center and unleash your inner artist. Create unforgettable memories as you craft beautiful ceramic masterpieces to cherish for many years to come.</p> <p>Color Me Mine Upper West Side is also the preferred venue for celebrations of all kinds. Whether you're planning a birthday party, a baby or bridal shower, a team-building event, a gathering for college groups, an enriching field trip, or an adventure with scouts, we've got you covered. Our versatile space and passionate team provides the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories and fostering creativity in every guest.</p> <p>Join us at Color Me Mine Upper West Side, at 177 Amsterdam Avenue in New York City where every visit promises a fun journey of color, joy, and artistic exploration!</p>