Our Favorite Parenting Stories Of The Week

Did you talk green with your kids this Earth Day? Here’s a primer on instilling respect for the environment in your children. (SheKnows)

See how kids have raised their crayons in solidarity for Martin Richard, the 8-year-old victim of the Boston marathon bombings, and peace on earth. (Babble)

When it comes to vaccinations for kids, social networks seem to play a huge role in parents’ decisions (Healthland)

Smoke no more! Some new proposed legislation would raise the legal age for buying cigarettes from 18 to 21 in NYC. Is this a good idea to discourage puffing or a restriction on our freedoms? (New York Times)

Looking for a fixer-upper? The Upper East Side has the highest number of run-down properties in the city. (NY Press)

Celebrity kids are growing up fast it seems: Check out how Ava Phillippe, Brooklyn Beckham, and Maddox Jolie-Pitt are entering tweendom. (People)

How to address a bully…when the bully is your child. (Parent Society)

Parents need to pencil “me time” into their busy calendars. Here are 5 simple (and achievable) tips to help prioritize yourself. (Huffington Post)

Raising babies diaper-free is all the rage. Would you ever try to practice elimination communication like these New York parents? (New York Times)

One mother examines the distinctions between breadwinner and child-care provider and the idiosyncrasies of her own “seesaw marriage.” (Motherlode)

And just for fun: The Stir has a new slideshow that illustrates 25 things every kid should try before the age of ten. Start checking these off your child’s bucket list! (CafeMom)

Relevant Directory Listings

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Laurissa Jane Music

<p>Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!</p>

Dance Workshop - Long Island

<p dir="ltr">Nestled in the heart of Lynbrook Village, Dance Workshop is a community-focused studio committed to dance education in a loving and safe environment. Dance Workshop offers Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Musical Theatre and Acro for ages 2+. They also offer a Pre-Professional Company track for dancers interested in taking their technique to the next level. Trial classes may be scheduled with the studio at the start of the season. Dance with the Dance Workshop!</p> <p dir="ltr">MaryAnn Grasso founded Dance Workshop in 1979. Her daughter Nanci later joined her at the helm and in 2016 established Dance Workshop on the Upper East Side of NYC. MaryAnn and Nanci have devoted their lives to dance education, community and the development of children; raising dancers and sound human beings alike. Dance Workshop has seen thousands of dancers pass through the doors. They believe dance has the power to elevate and change lives!</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-b50ede03-7fff-ec65-8962-b3be9135d2e8"></span></p>

Play On! Studios

<p>Play On! Studios offers theater day camps and after-school classes on the UWS that are guaranteed to give kids a summer full of acting, music, and fun they won't soon forget! Young actors will rehearse and perform in a full production, work with professional NYC actors/teaching artists, build up their skills in a nurturing, non-competitive environment and play lots of drama games!</p> <p>Creative Drama Camps are perfect for kids entering grades K-4. Campers will work each week to put on a brand-new show! Each session, they will receive a script, rehearse a production, make a set and costumes, and perform their play. Kids will also play drama games, play outside (weather permitting), and have tons of fun!</p> <p>Musical Theater Camps are aimed at kids entering grades 4-9. In Musical Theater Performance Camp, campers put on a complete musical production in a professional NYC theater! Campers will stretch their skills with drama exercises and games, vocal coaching, field trips, and building a professional set. Our incredible teaching artists and campers come together to put on a truly remarkable show!</p> <p>During the school year, classes are great for beginners or more experienced actors - sing, dance, and put on a play! Whether your child is just starting out, or ready for Broadway, we’ve got the class for them. Classes are available for grades PreK-8, after school or on Saturdays! Come play with us.</p> <p> </p>