April 2014 Issue - Chester County Intermediate Unit
Transcription
April 2014 Issue - Chester County Intermediate Unit
KIDS 2014 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE — PAGE A1 APRIL 2014 FREE! A monthly newspaper — Sponsored by The Chester County Intermediate Unit and Chester County’s public schools Helping the amphibians’ annual migration By JOLIE CHYLACK “‘Twas the night before spring and all through the forest, we searched for yellow spotted salamanders to the sound of a spring peeper chorus.” It’s true. This is the way that volunteers from “Amphibian Friends,” led by the remarkable Kim White, ushered in spring this year. It was a spectacular March night that none of us — my 14-year-old daughter, my 71-year-old mother and my 41-year-old self tagged along — would ever forget. It was the night when we met many fabulous creatures up close and personal. Species included the endangered Jefferson salamander, the small but mighty spring peeper, the amazing wood frog (that happens to sound like a duck when calling) and countless numbers of the large, elusive and beautiful spotted salamander. It was a night when we felt, despite on-going sorrowful tales of pollution, habitat loss and climate change, that humans could make a difference in the lives of our fellow inhabitants here on Earth. There is a little known fact that in the northeast there is a seemingly magical moment when most amphibians make a mass spring migration to the vernal ponds where they lay their eggs. If you are not a biologist or nature enthusiast, certain questions may be swirling in your head: What is an amphibian again? Migration ... isn’t that for birds? Vernal pond? Never heard of that one. To answer the first question, amphibians are frogs, newts, salamanders and toads. They are cold blooded, lay eggs in aquatic habitats, have smooth skin which needs to stay moist (except in the case of toads) and go through a metamorphosis (a physical change that entails spending the first part of life in the water breathing through gills and the second part on land taking in oxygen through moist skin and newly developed lungs). The answer to the second question is “yes.” Migration is for birds and butterflies. Many mammals that inhabit the plains of Africa migrate as well and so do amphibians — just not nearly as far. Most animals migrate in search of adequate food resources. The annual migration of amphibians takes place when the creatures leave their wintering habitat underneath rocks, dirt and leaf litter of the forest floor and head to vernal ponds where they lay their eggs. Yellow-spotted salamander What is a vernal pond? It is a pond that is present in the spring, but dries up during the summer, and therefore does not host fish. Vernal ponds and their lack of fish are crucial to the survival of the eggs, which the amphibians lay. So back to that “magical migration moment.” The amphibians in our area need three perfect conditions to migrate to their breeding ground. First, these creatures for the most part are nocturnal, and so it must be dark for the migration to take place. Because amphibians require moist conditions (due to their skin and the fact that they absorb oxygen through their wet skin), it must be raining. Finally, temperatures must be above freezing. Remember, amphibians are cold blooded. If it is below freezing, they hardly have the ability to move an inch. So, after a long winter’s hibernation and on the first rainy eve that is above freezing, amphibians make their move. They head as fast as their skittering or hopping legs will take them to the nearby vernal pond from which they once hatched. The instinctual drive to migrate is overwhelming for amphibians. It involves no inhibition whatsoever. When it’s time to move, it’s time to move. If there is a mountain in front of the vernal pool, amphibians will climb it. If there is a road, amphibians will cross it ... and they do not look both ways. Road traffic poses a threat to many species, not because of habitat loss, but because it is lethal to successful migration. Here is where humans can make a big difference. “Do you hear it everyone?” said White. “I think it’s the first peeper of spring.” About seven years ago, White, a North Coventry resident, organized a group of concerned friends and neighbors who were interested in assisting amphibians as they crossed the road to mate and lay their eggs in the vernal pond on her property. With the cooperation of North Coventry Police, a quarter-mile section of road is coned and patrolled by “Amphibian Friends” who are armed with safety vests, clean hands, bright flashlights and buckets. The volunteers walk up and down the road scanning for the migrating creatures. If one is spotted, it is carefully collected in the bucket and then promptly released into the safety of the nearby vernal pond. If a car is spotted, the group is alerted and the traffic is slowed, but not blocked, with a friendly wave. Ninth grade volunteer Catherine Wenger, who bonded with the small creatures she was helping to rescue, said, “From the road, I picked up one salamander after another and I was so happy knowing that they would make it. I felt connected to each one ... it was a really special night.” Wenger and other new “Amphibian Friends” learned a lot from the veteran volunteers about the species that were being escorted. Spring peepers are frogs that can be heard from far away because of the loud peeping chorus delivered by the males. It is rare, however, to see this species in the wild because they are quite small — just a bit bigger than a thumbnail. The vocal sac of the male spring peeper is nearly the same size as its body, which is why its call can seem almost deafening. The wood frog is a scientific wonder. This species actually freezes solid during the winter, yet emerges unharmed when it thaws in the spring. It actually produces an antifreeze-like substance that protects its internal organs over the winter. The Jefferson salamander, named for nearby Jefferson College, is a beautiful gray-blue creature that has a speckled pattern on its side and belly, making it look like a midnight universe. The largest of all the amphibians we worked with was the nine-inch spotted salamander. These creatures are quite common, but rarely seen because they are elusive and nocturnal. Like other salamanders, they have remarkable regenerative abilities and can even regenerate portions of their head and brain if lost. Scientists know that amphibian conservation and protection are important. For quite some time, these creatures have been considered an important bio-indicator species because they are quite sensitive to environmental changes. If amphibian populations decline, it is concerning because they do not tolerate pollution or unhealthy environments. If something is going wrong for them, it is bound to affect many others tied to them in the food web. White tallied the number of creatures that “Amphibian Friends” helped reach the vernal pond — 595 spotted salamanders, 20 Jefferson salamanders, 40 spring peepers and four red-spotted newts. “It is amazing to witness the vulnerability of these animals when a car goes rushing by,” said another volunteer. “It was really nice being able to help so many of these beautiful amphibians, especially the Jefferson salamander, which is quite a rare amphibian in this area.” As we celebrate Earth Day on April 22, consider engaging in volunteer traditions to connect your family and friends with their environment throughout the year. (Jolie Chylack, a frequent contributor to KIDS, performs marketing projects for the Great Valley Nature Center, Phoenixville, and is the coordinator of the Kids Leadership Academy.) PAGE 1 PUBLISHERS • P.O. BOX 72501, THORNDALE, PA., 19372 phone: 610-363-6437 • e-mail: page1publishers@aol.com • online: www.cciu.org/kidsnews OWEN J. ROBERTS KIDS 2 APRIL 2014 • State-of-the-art, Child-Friendly Facility • Progressive Dental Techniques Using Lasers and Digital Radiography • Counseling to Calm Your Child’s Fears • Convenient Hours and Competitive Fees • Most Major Dental Plans Accepted DR. JEFFREY MELINI DR. MARC ALBANO Pediatric Dentistry at Longwood 400 McFarlan Road, Suite 200 Kennett Square www.pdatlongwood.com 610-925-5700 FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK Field trip Students in the art club at French Creek Elementary School, Owen J. Roberts, recently joined parents and art club students in the fourth-through-sixth grades throughout the district on a field trip to the Metropolitan Art Museum, New York City. The students enjoyed seeing art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas and Oceania, reinforcing the various cultural units studied in art every year. The trip was sponsored by the Friends of the Arts, which was instrumental in organizing the event and providing the coach buses. FamilyWow! for you your entire family joins acac for just $99 for for them for everyone! 30days đ )+.! 0$* ĂĀĀ #.+1, (//!/ ,!. 3!!' đ '% / 6+*! $%( .! đ 3.) 30!.Č .!.!0%+*( Ē !4!.%/! ,++(/ đ ")%(5 Ē 03!!* #.+1, (//!/ đ 0$! )+/0 !40!*/%2! /!(!0%+* +" . %+ Ē ü0*!// !-1%,)!*0 .+1* đ &1), 6+*! Ē /,% !. )+1*0%* To join, call an acac Membership Coordinator at 610.431.7000! Must activate by May 15, 2014. Some restrictions apply. 1130 McDermott Drive, West Chester | 610.431.7000 | acac.com APRIL 2014 OWEN J. ROBERTS KIDS 3 Students help club win 1st blue ribbon at show The Owen J. Roberts High School Art Club focused on Salvador Dali’s love of luxury and his imaginative combinations to create a garden statue for the Elverson Garden Club, a community organization with eight years’ experience at the Philadelphia Flower Show. And, the joint effort paid off. Working collaboratively with the students, the Elverson club members won their first-ever blue ribbon at the flower show with their garden display entry at this year’s show. Their exhibit, ‘Salvador Dali’s Surreal Mediterranean Courtyard Garden’ (pictured at right), contained a bronze sculpture that was student designed and produced. Students were motivated by the project because they were able to create something that would be part of a bigger project for a venue that receives national attention. In a previous year, Owen J. horticulture students sowed lettuce seeds for an edible garden which won a red ribbon and a silver bowl for the Elverson club. The exhibit scored 97 out of 100 points, winning the prestigious Silver Bowl for “Best of the Blue Ribbons” for its class. Elverson Garden Club member Lisa Cherpanich said, “While it is a plant and flower show, this display garden would not have been complete without the sculpture made by Tracey Schiavello’s Art Club students.” • French Creek Elementary School. Students at French Creek Elementary School, Owen J. Roberts, are offering community members an adventure complete with laughter, music, hijinks and, of course, drama. The French Creek Drama Club will present “Pirates of the Curry Bean” on Friday, April 11 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 12 at 2 p.m. in the school’s multipurpose room. Follow the adventures of young twins Jack and Liza Periwinkle and imagine their joy at discovering a real life treasure map. But, when the infamous Redbeard and his pungent Pirates of the Curry Bean steal the map and kidnap their mother, the race is on to rescue her, reclaim the map and find the treasure. Accompanied by their faithful cat Fiddlesticks, the twins join a mad admiral and his crazy crew on a voyage of adventure that takes them from Old London Docks to the mysterious island of Lumbago in the sea of Sciatica. Tickets are $4/adults and $1/students and will be sold at the door. At Brady Orthodontics, we take pride in creating beautiful smiles for both adults and children. From traditional braces to the latest Invisalign technology, we’ll create a smile to last a lifetime. Dr. Thomas A. Brady is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh – School of Dental Medicine. A delegate to the Pennsylvania Dental Association, Dr. Brady is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and former President of the Chester and Delaware County Dental Societies. A resident of Exton, he is the father of two children. • Flexible payment options available • Most insurance plans accepted • Convenient hours including evenings and limited Saturdays • Board certified • Invisalign certified • Free initial exam and consultation • On-time appointments Now offering INCOGNITO BRACES!! These customized braces go behind the teeth and are completely hidden. Raised in New Jersey and South Carolina, Dr. Erica Harvey is a graduate of Villanova University with a degree in computer engineering. She completed her dental school training at the University of Pittsburgh. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, running, skiing and dabbling in golf. Dr. Harvey recently completed her first marathon in Philadelphia. MEDICAL ARTS BUILDING 80 W. Welsh Pool Road, Suite 203, Exton, PA 19341 610-363-2200 • www.drthomasbrady.com NEW PATIENTS WELCOME!! APRIL 2014 A PARENT’S VIEW KIDS 4 There’s no force field needed: Love draws together family members By LISA MARIE CRANE My sister tells me that there is an invisible shield between the sink and the dishwasher that children and husbands cannot cross. Dirty dishes get from the table to the sink, but never make it into the dishwasher. It seems only mothers can permeate this force field. No matter how many “Dishwasher 101” classes she holds, the lesson is never learned. They will never make it to “Emptying the Dishwasher 202.” It seems that some jobs are allocated by family position. We are enlightened and gender-blind in the working world, but at home, we fall back into the old tried-and-true many times. Mom does this. Dad does that. The kids do whatever their parents are strong enough to make them do. In my childhood, my grandmother, Nonna, was in charge of hiding things. At least that is how we saw it. You left your shoes or jacket in the family room or by the back door and expected to find them there. It didn’t matter that that might mean 20 pairs of shoes scattered about the house; that was our system. Nonna had the sneaky habit of putting things away where we would never think to look – in our closets or drawers. Many a frantic morning was spent, while the school bus rumbled up the road, searching for missing school bags, shoes or jackets. My job was to corral my two closest-inage brothers and get them up, out the door to school and back. This might not seem too difficult, but my brother Joseph was a dreamer. It was like herding a cloud. Joe would drift off and I would haul him back, handing him shoes and jacket (assuming Nonna hadn’t done her job) and pushing him out the door to the bus stop. After school, I had to make sure he was on the bus or had a ride home from his after-school band practice. If not, he definitely would have been on time for school the next day, since he would have spent the night, quite contentedly, dreaming away in the parking lot. My two sisters’ job was to wait on me hand and foot and fulfill my every command. They didn’t quite see it that way. They are considerably younger than I am so my plan worked – up until about the age of five when they wised up. Our baby brother’s job was to be cute and funny. He is still working at that one. It seems that many jobs are appropriated Lisa Marie Crane is a mother, a grandmother and a retired public school teacher in Chester County. She is a graduate of West Chester University, and received a master’s degree in children’s literature from Hollins College in Virginia. by the family member most interested in getting them done. Mom wants an ordered house. Dad wants a beautiful yard. Brothers and sisters want their needs fulfilled. Nonna just wanted to be able to walk across a room without tripping (Did I mention she also always refilled the toilet paper roll? Enough said.) Parents work hard to get their children to understand the importance of household jobs, but children have other priorities — playing, dreaming, learning, wondering and just being kids. Housekeeping and yard work are just not on their radar. As kids, we never did learn to put our possessions away, but we learned many other important lessons from our parents and Nonna. We learned to be kind. We learned to take care of one another. We learned to keep looking for answers and that those who loved us would never stop trying to teach us what we needed to know to be a part of a family. Household jobs may or may not get done, but there is no force field between family members. We are drawn together by love. WEST CHESTER PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT SUMMER CAMPS 2014 Bus trip to New York City sponsored by WEST CHESTER & WEST GOSHEN PARKS and RECREATION Wednesday, April 23 Departure 8 a.m. from West Goshen Municipal Complex, 1025 Paoli Pike Depart NYC for home at 7:30 p.m. Disney’s new Broadway musical, adapted from the film and featuring some of the best-loved music by Academy and Tony Award-winning composer Alan Menken and lyricists Howard Ashman, Tim Rice and Chad Beguelin. With its timeless story, extravagant sets and costumes and a host of memorable characters and songs, Aladdin will transport you to a place you only know in your dreams. Go ahead, make a wish! And, discover a whole new world, in a whole new way... SUMMER DAY CAMP Eight weeks (June 23-Aug. 15) • Hoopes Park & Everhart Park 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday for ages 5-10 Costs vary; please call for details CAMP B.I.G. Cost $175 Trip includes transportation, orchestra tickets, dinner, meal gratuities, taxes & NYC map! Info: 610-436-9010 www.west-chester.com/recreation.php Eight weeks (June 23-Aug. 15) • Location to be announced 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for ages 11-14 Costs vary; please call for details REGISTRATION B EGINS FEB. 10 A $100 deposit required for each child registered. Camp registration deadline is Wednesday, June 11, 2014. Financial aid available; for details, contact West Chester Parks and Recreation. CAMP TUITION MUST BE PAID IN FULL BY FRIDAY, JUNE 13. NO EXCEPTIONS. A CHILD WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO ATTEND CAMP BEFORE HIS/HER TUITION IS PAID. Registration forms available from West Chester Parks & Recreation Dept., 401 E. Gay St. Stop by or call to have one mailed! WEST CHESTER PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 610-436-9010 www.west-chester.com/recreation.php OCTORARA APRIL 2014 KIDS 5 Young authors Open house The Octorara Primary Learning Center recently hosted the first grade open house/music concert and art show. Parents and students visited teachers and classrooms, perused the art show and attended the music concert. Heather Ceresini, LTS music teacher, directed the performance, which featured engaging songs with hand motions and a display of excitement from the first grade singers. The art show, which included projects that students have created since September, were hung in the hallways by art teacher Candice Schwien. Above, first grade teacher Marsha Kascan poses for a picture with student Owen Lease. Twenty-five young authors at the Octorara Primary Learning Center spent every Tuesday afternoon for the past seven weeks writing biographies. The authors, second grade students, chose people who were at least 18 years old and interviewed them for their biographies. The authors broke their biographies into three stages — younger years, high school/college and present day. They developed interesting questions to ask, took notes and recorded the responses. Their last paragraphs were a surprise as the young authors wrote why the people they interviewed are so special. After much hard work, the students typed their biographies and shared them in front of an audience of about 100 people. Pictured above are student Kaitlyn Salada and her mom, Danielle Salada. Our Patients don’t need to say a word to recommend us... (but ask them anyway!) DR. JOHN PARDINI ORTHODONTIST Winning Smiles! Downingtown Frazer Liberty Square Building 270 Lancaster Ave. Suite D-1 484-318-8481 38 1/2 W. Lancaster Ave. near Rt. 322 610-269-8066 Give your family the Advantage of a Beautiful Smile! XXXTNJMFTCZKQDPN www.smilesbyjp.com JOGP!TNJMFTCZKQDPN info@smilesbyjp.com KIDS NUTRITION KIDS 6 APRIL 2014 Consumers must sort out nutrition information from misinformation By DANIEL CONNOLLY Consumers have always demanded to have the necessary information to make their own decisions about topics and products that are important to them. Recently there has been an increase in consumer interest when it comes to nutrition information about the foods they eat and serve to their families. With this increasing consumer demand for nutrition information, there is a large number of nutrition professionals and companies willing to produce good, hard, factual information about food and nutrition (nutrition information). However, there is an equally large, if not larger, group of people, and companies, willing to produce information about their beliefs and products that will benefit them, if the average consumer believes this information (nutrition misinformation). This massive amount of information poses quite the dilemma for average consumers; how do they determine the nutrition information from the nutrition misinformation? First and foremost, visit a registered dietitian nutritionist, a food and nutrition expert who translates the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. The expertise, training and credentials that back a registered dietitian nutritionist are vital for promoting positive lifestyle choices. Registered dietitian nutritionists draw on their experience to develop a personalized nutrition plan for individuals of all ages. They are able to separate facts from fads and translate nutrition science into information you can use. However, do not be afraid of trying to find nutrition information on your own. Learning to determine a good source from a not-so-good source is the key to finding good nutrition information. Listed below are two great sources when you have a question or want to increase your nutrition knowledge. • www.eatright.org — The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. • www.ChooseMyPlate.gov — The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, an organization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, was established in 1994 to improve the nutrition and well-being of Americans. Whenever attempting to find another source for nutrition information, you will want to ask the following questions about the source to assess the source’s credibility. • What are the background, credibility and affiliation of the researchers or sources? • Does the web site identify the publisher and any sponsors? • Does the web site say who wrote it or how it was approved? • Is the information up-to-date? • Does the information include credible references such as peerreviewed journals? • Does the information present both perspectives of the issue? • Is the information balanced and state any warnings? • Is the web site designed to sell products? • Are there links that provide support or more detail? (Daniel Connolly, a dietetic intern for the Morrison and Chartwells Dietetic Internship, is an intern for Chester County Women Infants and Children, a supplemental nutrition program providing nutrition education, breastfeeding support and healthy foods at no cost to eligible women and children. PA WIC is funded by USDA. For more information, call 610-3346240 or visit www.chesco.org/index. aspx?NID=367.) VOLUME 23 • NUMBER 2 APRIL 2014 A monthly publication of the Chester County Intermediate Unit and Page 1 Publishers, Inc. KIDS is sponsored by the Chester County Intermediate Unit and published by Page 1 Publishers, Inc., of Downingtown. KIDS is distributed by the Intermediate Unit in the elementary and middle schools through the voluntary participation of the Avon Grove, Coatesville, Downingtown, Great Valley, Kennett, Octorara, Owen J. Roberts, Oxford, Phoenixville, TredyffrinEasttown, Unionville-Chadds Ford and West Chester school districts. Circulation: 35,000 copies The advertisements in this issue do not necessarily represent the views of Chester County's public school districts. KIDS reserves the right to reject any advertising. The Chester County Intermediate Unit and Page 1 Publishers, Inc., are equal opportunity employers. E-mail press releases, to: page1publishers@aol.com. For advertising information: call 610-363-6437 or e-mail page1publishers@aol.com. Sharman Ludwick, Advertising Manager Page 1 Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 72501 Thorndale, Pa., 19372 CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE Specializing in Infertility and Pain Management Weiping Wang CMD, L.Ac. “Where kids can be kids, teens can talk, and families can heal...” Child, Adolescent & Family Counseling Parent Support & Education Creative and compassionate strategies addressing… *Depression *Stress Management *Divorce/Stepfamily Issues *Self-Injury *Coping Skills *Disordered Eating *Relationship Problems *Anxiety *School Struggles *Friendship Problems *Co-Parenting Challenges *Conflict Resolution *Mood Management *Low Self-Esteem Call Jill today for a free consultation to discuss your needs. (610) 564-6835 617B Swedesford Road, Malvern, PA 19355 www.jillcrawfordcounseling.com PA. 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Lancaster Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335 610-269-6833 WWW.AJMASCHERINOCPA.COM Celebrating our 41st Year APRIL 2014 CHESTER COUNTY HOSPITAL KIDS 7 THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE PEDIATRIC AND NEWBORN CARE. Chester County Hospital’s long-standing affiliation with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia offers you: • The only dedicated pediatric unit staffed by CHOP Pediatricians; • The only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)—the highest level in the area—staffed by CHOP Neonatologists; • And now the only hospital with CHOP Pediatricians in the Emergency Department waiting to care for your sick child. It’s the care your child deserves and the peace of mind you want. CHOP Pediatricians are available in the ED for children 6 and under: Monday through Friday, 7 PM to 11 PM Weekends, 3 PM to 11 PM Chester County Hospital • 701 E. Marshall St., West Chester • 610.431.5000 • ChesterCountyHospital.org PHOENIXVILLE KIDS 8 At the end of the recent Phoenixville MiniTHON, the executive committee displays the total amount of money raised. From left are Norman Horn of Phoenixville Walks Coast2Coast and APRIL 2014 Phoenixville High School students Jamie Connors, Karlyn Small, Elyse Phillips, Kyle Kobilka and Alyssa Andrews. 12-hour ‘MiniTHON’ raises $12,500 for pediatric cancer research, cure By SANDRA CLAUS Dancing the night away sounds like fun … and 100 students at Phoenixville Area High School recently did just that, dancing for 12 straight hours as part of the Phoenixville MiniTHON. MiniTHON is the high school derivation of Penn State’s THON, the largest student-run philanthropic effort in the country. Throughout the year, Phoenixville students were busy raising funds and awareness—attending the Phoenixville First Friday showcase of downtown businesses and restaurants, “canning” at football and basketball games, manning information tables at concerts and plays, and working with other community groups. All of the efforts and money donated are “For the Kids” and the Four Diamond Fund supporting research and the eventual eradication of pediatric cancer. Karlyn Small, an energetic, talented senior was inspired to start Phoenixville’s MiniTHON a year ago. “ There are lots of ways to go through life,” Small said. “I want to have fun and help people. MiniTHON mixes both of those, and reminds people that while life is fun, it sometimes comes with pain.” One of the highlights of the event was breaking down some of the barriers that exist between different groups or cliques within the school. Tickle Tooth Dental has changed its name... Exton Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry Specializing in Kids Dentistry (ages 1-to-21) Meet Dr. Hilda Villegas, DMD, Graduate of UPENN Dental School, Philadelphia • Fun atmosphere • Friendly, Highly Skilled Dentist & Staff • Friendly, Gentle Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Hilda Villegas We accept most insurance plans including Medicaid & CHIP Make YOUR Smile Shine at Exton Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry 235 S. Pottstown Pike, Exton 610-363-8872 extonpediatricdentistry.com ‘Pi(e) Day’ “It didn’t matter who you are, or what clique you are in … we were just all together having fun and supporting a great cause,” said Jamie Connors. Connors organized the activities for the evening, including choreographing an intricate line dance for the entire group. At the end of the 12 hours, everyone was exhausted, but exhilarated when they heard the total dollar amount raised — $12,500. As they celebrated to Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On A Prayer,”, one of the students shouted, “This is the best.” (Sandra Claus is the community relations coordinator for the Phoenixville Area School District.) Phoenixville Area Middle School teacher Jim Duey displays one of the 14 pies he baked in celebration of ‘Pi(e) Day’ on March 14. Faculty and staff in the building were invited to join in the celebration by sampling one or more of the fabulous choices in each of the faculty rooms. Duey’s 14 pies included the following flavors — apple crumble, blueberry, chocolate pudding, pecan, pumpkin, sour cherry and strawberry. When he’s not busy baking pies, Duey is a sixth grade language arts teacher. In his message to the staff, he said, ‘You should circle around and indulge! Remember that Greek letters are so 2014 ... and eat pie!’ WEST CHESTER PARKS & RECREATION SPRING HAPPENINGS Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 12 Everhart Park, 10:00 a.m. (Corner of Miner Street & S. Bradford Avenue) Ages 2 through 9 • Bring own basket/bag • Free Lunch with the Easter Bunny Saturday, April 12 Side Bar & Restaurant, 12 p.m. $12/ages 2 and up • Meet the Easter Bunny! Pre-registration required • Limited to 40 (Side Bar, 10 E. Gay St., West Chester) For Information/Registration, Contact: WEST CHESTER PARKS & RECREATION Phone: 610-436-9010 E-mail: parksandrecreation@west-chester.com APRIL 2014 GREAT VALLEY KIDS 9 ‘iCompose’ Come Hang w ith Us! Students in sixth and seventh grades at Great Valley Middle School were introduced this year to a music composition program called ‘iCompose,’ thanks to a grant from The Foundation at Great Valley. Students are using iPads and GarageBand software in their music classes to write and compose music. Teacher Paige Seaton, who made the grant request on behalf of the music teachers at the middle school, said, ‘We are excited to incorporate the technology students are already using at home into the classroom. Students are able to write their own melodies and see them through to full compositions, complete with percussion, strings and other instruments.’ Sixth grade students demonstrate their knowledge of the musical form by creating a composition using GarageBand. In seventh grade, students create a pentatonic melody and orchestrate their composition. Students share their completed compositions on teacher web pages, using sharing sites like DropBox and SoundCloud. Above, teacher Paige Seaton helps student Chaela Dugan arrange her original music composition. Now Enrolling for WINTER SPRING Now Enrolling for Near STAPLES in the Shoppes at Valley Forge. 15,000 feet feet of 15,000 of Fantastic Fantastic Gymnastics! Gymnastics! Classes 18 Months Months to Classes 18 to HS HS Boys & & Girls Girls on on all Boys all Olympic Olympic Events Events Tumbling & & Trampoline Trampoline for Tumbling for Cheerleaders Cheerleaders Birthday Parties, Private Lessons Birthday Parties, Private Lessons After-School Programs, USAG Teams AfterSchool Programs, USAG Summer Day Camp Teams Register Today for for Register Today aa PREVIEW Lesson! PREVIEW Lesson! Call 610-983-9044 www.Aerialsgymnastics.com 238 Schuylkill Road, Phoenixville Heritage night K.D. Markley Elementary School, Great Valley, recently celebrated its annual heritage night. The event highlights the various cultures that are represented in the school community. It also served as an opportunity for families to learn about and celebrate each other’s ethnicity and heritage. School families volunteered to participate and present booths where they offered food, artifacts and items that represented their heritage. Students and families also performed cultural dances and participated in a fashion show that highlighted the traditional dress of their nations. There were 20 countries represented this year. Above, K.D. Markley students Jenny Chen (from left), Eva Li, Joy Chen and Ally Wen perform a fan dance for heritage night visitors. COATESVILLE KIDS 10 APRIL 2014 Student’s essay first in state, 10th in nation By STACY OSOSKIE Tens of thousands of students across the nation have been busy crafting their submission for this year’s InvestWrite competition with the hopes of their essays being selected to move on to the national level. North Brandywine Middle School student Harrison Chain’s essay finished in the top 10 nationally and earned the distinction of being the top essay in Pennsylvania. For Chain, a sixth grade student in the Coatesville Area School District, being able to articulate his understanding of what he learned through The Stock Market Game translated into some real life gains of his own. Chain’s InvestWrite essay was selected as the 10th place winner from among thousands of other middle school students’ essays. “During the Stock Market game, I learned the pricing of shares of stock, and how that price increases and decreases,” said Chain. “No matter how much money I had, it would still go a long way and when two stocks combined, I had the opportunity to make more money than the stocks would have individually.” According to Chain’s teacher, Janene Groff, there are numerous benefits of participating in the contest. “InvestWrite is an excellent educational opportunity because it allows the students to critically think about and apply their newly acquired knowledge from The Stock Market Game to a real-life situation,” said Groff. “In addition, they hone their writing skills as we go through the writing process to complete this challenging essay.” In his essay, Chain explained his 10year investment plan and included detailed information about the stocks and mutual funds he would incorporate into the plan. He learned about investments and researched this information while participating in The Stock Market Game, a 10-week simulation during which his gifted seminar class studied stocks, bonds and mutual funds, and researched trends before buying, selling and adjusting their virtual investment portfolios. Due to Chain’s success, he and Groff each received a gift card from the national contest sponsor, the SIFMA Foundation, and received awards from the local sponsor, EconomicsPennsylvania. As part of the local sponsor prize package, the entire sixth grade gifted class at North Brandywine was treated to a party to celebrate its accomplishments. While Chain learned a lot throughout the process, he is grateful for the opportunity to learn how to manage a fictional portfolio and thinks that he might need a few more years of practice before he would feel comfortable investing his own money. “While researching for my essay, I learned that there are a lot of options for Pictured above are (from left) Chamise Taylor, principal of North Brandywine Middle School, Coatesville; Bruce Moroney, DNB First representative; student Harrison Chain, InvestWrite winner; Janene Groff, teacher of the gifted at North Brandywine; and Dr. Angelo Romaniello, Coatesville assistant superintendent of schools. choosing stocks and mutual funds,” said Chain. “It is fun to research, but I would still feel nervous about buying stocks if I was using my own money.” The Coatesville Area School District has quite the successful history in the national competition. In the past four years, four students from North Brandywine have placed, including one first place, two third place and one seventh place. In addition, the school had a first place state winner last year. “The students in the gifted program at North Brandywine are coming into sixth grade already possessing some excellent writing skills, which makes my job easier as I am able to guide these talented writers in the creation of these award-winning essays,” said Groff. (Stacy Ososkie is a communications specialist in the public relations department at the Chester County Intermediate Unit.) the only fulltime pediatric ophthalmologist in town 795 East Street,Street Suite 103 440 Marshall East Marshall West Chester Chester West 610-429-3004 www.mudgil.com x x x x x Specializing in: Board Certified Fellowship Trained Member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology Member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery APRIL 2014 TREDYFFRIN-EASTTOWN KIDS 11 MATHCOUNTS team 2nd The Tredyffrin-Easttown Middle School MATHCOUNTS® team brought home second place at the state competition at the Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey in March. One-hundred-fifty-one students from 61 schools participated. T-E team members include Thomas Huck, Aaron Lee, Brady Munroe and David Xu. Munroe had one of the top 10 individual scores. Brian Xiao competed as an individual after his outstanding performance at the county level qualified him for the state competition. The team, coached by Lisa Stehouwer, advanced to the state competition after capturing the wildcard spot following the Chester County competition at Great Valley High School. The following are the individual results in the county competition: • Munroe, grade 8 – first place; • Xiao, grade 7 – third place; • Huck, grade 8 – fifth place; • Lee, grade 8 – seventh place. The remaining team members who participated in the county competition were seventh graders Kaitlyn Chen and David Xu and eighth graders Leo Chen, Pranay Jain, Jennifer Lee and Liam McLaughlin. CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATES P.C. CDHA Core Values: LOCATIONS Surroundings — CDHA creates a Aston Chadds Ford Drexel Hill Downingtown West Grove fun and welcoming environment where children feel comfortable. Morality — CDHA treats each patient based on their individual needs with kindness and compassion. Impartiality — CDHA believes that every child deserves the best possible care for their oral health. Learning — CDHA strives to educate patients and families. Excellence — CDHA strives to exceed expectations by providing outstanding service. Safety — CDHA uses the safest approach for treatment. 1-855-KIDSCDH www.childrendentalhealth.com Eric Felix, DMD; David Iglewicz, DMD; Robyn Ivker, DMD & Associates KENNETT KIDS 12 ‘Writers’ luncheon’ To recognize great efforts in writing, Susan McArdle, principal at New Garden Elementary School, Kennett, began hosting a monthly writers’ luncheon in January. This incentive program coincides with the implementation of the school’s new writing program, ‘Being a Writer,’ which uses good pieces of literature to excite students’ thoughts about writing. Through the program students are writing more than ever and are learning to use organization structures such as graphic organizers to unify their thoughts in a logical manner. To honor their hard work, teachers select one student per month whose writing has either improved or whose writing is advanced for the student’s grade level. These students are then invited to join their peers and McArdle at the writers’ luncheon. A special treat is also given to the students as a reward for working so diligently on improving their overall writing skills. Above, second grade students Emma Hannon (left) and Lexi Hoyle share their writing with each other at the first writers’ luncheon. FREE FAMILY FUN! Healthy Kids Day present APRIL 2014 In-house field trips Students at the Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center, Kennett, have been exploring native wild animals, the stars and universe, and physical science without leaving their school building. Teacher Jeri Ramagnano said that with the high cost of transportation, in-house field trips are an inexpensive alternative to taking the students out of the building. The Delaware Nature Society from the Ashland Nature Center, Hockessin, Del., was the first to visit and gave a presentation on ‘Native Wild Animals.’ Students learned about wild animals native to Delmarva while looking closely at live animals and taxidermy. The second visit was from Stars on the Move. Students spent time inside a portable planetarium learning about the stars and the constellations; explored and created the phases of the moon with Oreo cookies; and made paper stars and planets for a solar system display in the hallway. The final in-house field trip will be a visit from Science Explorers in early May. Above, students Shyann Rice (left) and April Zurita learn about the four phases of the moon by coloring their own moons. "Helping build the foundations for healthy living." "Helping build the foundations for healthy living." privateoutpatient outpatientpsychotherapy psychotherapyand andwellness wellness A Aprivate practice dedicated to helping people achieve optimal practice dedicated to helping people achieve optimal physicaland andmental mentalhealth. health. physical ServicesProvided: Provided: Services !"#$%&'%($)*+),/")0123 ./0+; +30,6*,27 (.,5)4: 6,%#7#%51$ /")0123 #2+/9/+8)0 (.,5)4: =)%#+1-#(,%)2)-,1,27 =1,1>)8),%,+/*)7/32 40(52(.,5)4: /")0123 "5384 '5-#*8 /")0123 87/61 < 9':;< '!= (.,5)4: !(52$)* /")0123 3840,6 (.,5)4: :2))+"&?1,>51>)(.,5)4: /")0123 '4,,*.;$)2-8)-, ;#)-#-#1,&@5-0#-#(,1$(.,5)4: /")0123 !/,7/7/)2;&875/7/32)0 Sponsored by Free and Open to Everyone! Saturday, April 26 11:00 am to 2:00 pm fMoonbounce 9 Family Activities & Games 5 Fitness Activities d Give-A-Ways 9 Healthy Snacks 5 Face Painting f Program Demos 5 Contests & Prizes d Mascots f Arts & Crafts and much more! Not all activities at all locations. YMCA OF THE BRANDYWINE VALLEY BRANDYWINE YMCA 610-380-9622 JENNERSVILLE YMCA 610-869-9622 YMCA OF THE UPPER MAIN LINE Visit www.ymcabwv.org for event locations KENNETT AREA YMCA WEST CHESTER AREA YMCA 610-444-9622 610-431-9622 Visit www.umly.org for event locations UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA 610-647-9622 610-363-9622 %&'()$*'%+(!-$ *&,.+)12)# *22$.*13$.4.30 .#$ $%$)#!2%$ ,(,%1*'(, 2051-.'-($*2%0'06 30"#$ )-2%'0!2)4% (-./%0'%1 !//0.!#( &0., /16#(.2(%0!/)1218 2051-%*'$%0'6 02((1'-($*2%0' *&, ,%('%'%*& -(/2 )#%,( *&, 5.# 2. '. /16#()!20)128 1/%%#( 2(%0!/)12!-$ $)%2)2)!- (%+/ '3)$% !-$ 0#22.$' 13//.02 6.3 4%&%4%7( 0'$(00.$0 *&, %42$.+( 1.2%&) 08%//0 '. (&-*&1( ,*%/5 /%+%&)9 ,)-),)7% 120%11.01 !-$ ),/0.4% #./)-' 1*)++1 2. %-(!-#% !)+6 $+)4)-'9 MostInsurance InsurancePlans PlansAccepted Accepted Most FlexibleAppointments Appointments Flexible FreeConsultation Consultation Free Cornerstone Therapyand andWellness Wellness Cornerstone Therapy 1 North Bacton Hill Road, Suite 107 1 North Bacton Hill Road, Suite 107 Malvern,PA PA19355 19355 Malvern, (610)616-5935 (610)616-5935 e-mail: info@counselingcornerstone.com e-mail: info@counselingcornerstone.com www.counselingcornerstone.com www.counselingcornerstone.com 3%&,.32 .#',.0% 4.$( 2/(*0( 0%'(1)2% .$ '..04*8( *& *22.%&'4(&'6 2/(*0(#!++ 1*// .$ . :. &)-$ /+%!1% +%0%' 4)1)2.#$ .30;(< 5%" 2. ,!*% !-2,%-28 !//.) /+%!1% .0 (4*%/ %,!)+#09319 APRIL 2014 DOWNINGTOWN KIDS 13 Teachers from Honduras spend week in district Superintendent Dr. Lawrence Mussoline, school board president Jane Bertone and Downingtown High School teachers recently welcomed teachers from Honduras to the district. Teachers Marty Edwards and Brooke Pizzati visited as guests of Downingtown Middle School, Downingtown East High School East and Downingtown West High School. The two represent Baptist Medical and Dental Missions International Good Shepherd Christian Academy, a school whose children have been orphaned, rescued from abusive situations or taken off the streets, some of whom were living in landfills. Four years ago, teachers Michele Podolak from Downingtown East, Susan Tancredi from Downingtown West and Gary Gittis and Jeff Singleton from Downingtown Middle School developed a project with their students and families. Together they worked to help the children of Honduras by collecting and donating shoes and jeans. Close to 2,000 pairs of shoes and 12 dozen jeans were shipped to provide for these children in need. Downingtown students also sent letters to the children, written in Spanish and answered in English, to help develop the “foreign” language skills on both ends. Edwards and Pizzati spent a week in Downingtown, visiting the Spanish classes in the three schools and addressing the culture of Spanishspeaking American countries and hopefully further establishing a sister School Superintent Dr. Lawrence Mussoline, school president Jane Bertone and Downingtown high school teachers school program. In addition, the Honduran teachers presented at the international dinner at Downingtown Middle School. The Downingtown teachers also hosted a fund-raising night at the Lionville and Downingtown Chick-Fil-A restaurants to help raise funds to provide for the needs of the children. • Pickering Valley Elementary School. Sixty fourth and fifth grade students recently participated in the fifth annual “March Madness Basketball Hot Shot” welcome Marty Edwards and Brooke Pizzati, two teachers from Honduras who recently spent a week in the district. contest at Pickering Valley Elementary School, Downingtown. With a packed house, each participant had the chance to shoot for one minute at areas marked one point, two points and three points on the floor. Players were not allowed to shoot from the same spot twice in a row. Scorekeepers kept a running total. If a tie between students occurred, another one-minute round to determine the winner was held. Event trophies were awarded to first, second and third place finishers in each category. Fifth grader Grant Umberger was the overall champion award, scoring 35 points in one minute. Winners included: • Fourth grade girls — Bridget Riley, first; Paige Croney, second; and Rebecca Thomas, third. • Fourth grade boys — Jayden Rowe, first; Connor Cahill, second; and Luke Wetzel, third. • Fifth grade girls — Emma Burke, first; Ella Ferris, second; and Divya Tyagi, third. • Fifth grade boys — Umberger, first; Garrett Gripton, second; and Drake LaShell, third. UNIONVILLE-CHADDS FORD KIDS 14 APRIL 2014 GROVE PRESCHOOL NOW TAKING REGISTRATIONS for 2014-2015 H Programs for children 18 months to 5 years H Transitional Pre-K Program H IS YOUR CHILD NOT YET READY FOR KINDERGARTEN? OUR TRANSITIONAL PRE-K PROGRAM MAY BE THE ANSWER! K Morning & Afternoon Programs K Daily ‘Lunch & Play’ Program K Established Curriculum K Certified Teachers K Low teacher-to-student ratio K Affordable Tuition K Newly Renovated Classrooms Give us a call or visit our web site! 490 W. Boot Road, West Chester phone: 610-696-8107 web site: www.grovechurch.org e-mail: preschool@grovechurch.org Team Cyclonz The First State FIRST LEGO League Champion’s Tournament was at the New Castle Air National Guard Base in Delaware in February. Thirty-one teams from Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia participated. Team Cyclonz, consisting of seven sixth graders and one seventh grader from the Patton Middle School, Unionville-Chadds Ford, took home the ‘Nature’s Fury Challenge Research Award.’ This award recognizes a team that uses diverse resources to formulate an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the problem it has identified. Team Cyclonz was recognized for the depth and breadth of its research, which included contacting professional meteorologists, disaster relief personnel and engineers. The team’s project focused on developing a cost-effective, advanced warning system to help cyclone-prone Bangladesh. Team Cyclonz members included Adarsh Gadagkar, Darshak Gadagkar, Viraj Joshi, Panos Moisiadis, Rishab Nandan, Liam O’Rourke, Arnav Patel and Parik Radhakrishnan. WEST CHESTER APRIL 2014 ‘Jump Rope for Heart’ The 15th annual ‘Jump Rope for Heart’ was epic for Exton Elementary School, West Chester. Thanks to the generosity of its students, families and friends, Exton Elementary raised $13,675 for the American Heart Association. Through its 15 years of participation in ‘Jump Rope for Heart,’ the school has contributed more than $207,000. This year’s top fund-raisers included (from left) Brady Gilchrist, Alyssa Gilchrist, Reese Olson, Ana Izquierdo and Jamie Parker. They are pictured with physical education teacher Rob Miller, who coordinated the event. ‘Jump Rope For Heart’ is a national education and fund-raising event sponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. The event engages elementary and middle school students while empowering them to improve their own health and help other kids with heart health issues. ,+2#+'#+0 • 1)) 3• '+"#.% .0#+•'+• #/0• &#/0#. • • • • • • • • /! .• /(,• ,10&• .,%. *• #+0#. • +#• $• " • "• /0• &#/0+10• 0.##0 !# "• • '+"#.% .0#+• ! "#*3•-.#- .#/•3,1.•!&')" $,.•/1!!#//•'+• •)# .+'+%•#+2'.,+*#+0•"#/'%+#"•0, /1--,.0•0&#•/-'.'0 •*'+"• +"• ,"3•,$•#2#.3•!&')" 3 $- + 2 .$% $'"• -$/$-$ ,• 3 -# •, $ ' •,( $ %•,-. $ ,• ' •- #'(%("2• / %()& '3 ) '$,#•$',-+. -$(' 3 ' 0+$-$'"• $-#(.-• +, 3 + -$/ • +-,• ' • 1)+ ,,$(' 3 #2,$ %• / %()& '-• -$/$-$ ,•.'$*. %2•/ $% % • -•-# • $' %. $'"•,0$&•% ,,(', 3 .,•-+ ',)(+- -$('•0# '• %$"$ % 3 !(+ •, #((%• + •$' %. •!+(&• •-(• • & 3 !- +•, #((%• + •$' %. •!+(&• •-(• •)& - ) +-& '- (! . -$(' $ ', 3 '/'0• +• -#+• ,1/# -.') • *• • -.')• • •-* ('- -• %$,('• $''$" ' • • 1- • (+• !$''$" ' 2& 0/ (+"•!(+•&(+ •$'!(+& -$(' • • ,-• # ,- + • •3• • • • •3•000 2& 0/ (+" KIDS 15 Beanie baby sale Beanie Babies were plentiful at Fern Hill Elementary School, West Chester, as second graders recently created a business to sell them through a partnership with LifeStyles Transitions. The students chose a name for their company, created a web site, advertised over the morning announcements and sold almost 600 stuffed animals. The Beanie Babies were provided by Richnow LifeStyle Transitions, which provides an array of services designed to help people downsize, de-clutter and organize their homes. The company’s primary focus is on serving the adult and senior population across seven counties in Pennsylvania and Delaware. All money collected was donated back to LifeStyle. Above, second graders (from left) Max Carozza, Nicole Christensen and Ella Kennedy help a group of older students pick out beanie babies. KIDS 16 AVON GROVE/OXFORD APRIL 2014 28 FBLA members heading to state competition Twenty-eight members of the Oxford Area High School chapter of Future Business Leaders of America will attend the Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference and Competition April 7-9 at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. The students qualified for the conference after participating in several business-related categories at the FBLA Region 9 conference in December when more than 600 chapter members from 14 area high schools competed in online events as well as live presentations at Great Valley High School. Oxford students advancing to the state level are seniors Davin Axelsson, first place for spreadsheet applications, and Toria Calibey, first place for word processing; seniors Rachel Winand and Lauren Keeler, first place for desktop publishing, team; the team of seniors Hannah Cummiskey, Carly Gaspar and Alyssa Sniechoski, first place for hospitality management; and sophomore Abby Roper, first place for FBLA principles and procedures. Also advancing to the state level are the team of senior Kyle Youssi, juniors Elaine Estes and Thomas Sumner, and sophomores Joe Barr and Emma Wilkinson, second place, parliamentary procedure, team; the team of juniors Bailee Hilaman and Brad Way, second place, desktop publishing, team; juniors Josh Stillman, third place, business calculations, and Alex Peffer, third place, business law; freshman Sarah Johnson, second place, FBLA principles and procedures; sophomore Jocelyn Golly, third place, word processing; and freshmen Gabrielle Murphy, third place, introduction to business; and Rachel Members of the Oxford Area High School chapter of Future Business Leaders of America qualifying to attend the Pennsylvania FBLA State Leadership Conference in the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center are (front,from left) Davin Axelsson, Carly Gaspar, Hannah McComsey, Chris Chavez, Alyssa Sniechoski, Hannah Cummiskey, Victoria Calibey, Rachel Winand, (middle, from left) Emma Wilkinson, Hannum, third place, FBLA principles and procedures. Senior Henry Trabue and sophomore Alex Chavez will also advance to the state competition for agribusiness. Seniors Hannah McComsey, Brianne Roper and Jackie DiGiacomo will attend the conference after being named finalists in the public service announcement event. Junior Kassidy England will attend the state conference after being named a Kassidy England, Rachel Hannum, Bailee Hilaman, Abby Harvey, Alex Peffer, Brianne Roper, Jackie DiGiacamo, Lauren Keeler, (top from left) Gabrielle Murphy, Sarah Johnson, Henry Trabue, Abigail Roper, Alex Chavez, Joe Barr, Bradley Way, Kyle Youssi, Elaine Estes and Thomas Sumner. Jocelyn Golly is not pictured. finalist in the community service project category for organizing a car wash to benefit the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation. Along with Alyssa Sniechoski and Hannah Cummiskey, senior Chris Chavez will attend the state competition after the team was named a finalist in the American Enterprise Project event. Junior Abby Harvey was re-elected Region 9 secretary for 2014-2015 and will attend the conference as part of her current term. Emma Wilkinson was elected regional treasurer for the next school year. Any individual, business or organization interested in making a donation to the FBLA chapter to offset the cost of attending the state competition may contact adviser Kim Webber at kwebber@oxford.k12.pa.us. District tackles new strategic planning process The Avon Grove School District is embarking on a dynamic new strategic planning process that is designed to set a new standard for the district in seeking input from all stakeholders through surveys, interviews and public meetings. Known as “Creating Our Future Together,” Avon Grove’s strategic planning process will involve three broad phases — designing, planning and achieving the school district’s future together. Each phase will involve a number of activities. The first two phases are expected to conclude in the fall of 2014 with the development of the district’s comprehensive plan, which must be submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Education by Nov. 30. The process will be facilitated by Dr. Andy Hegedus, the founder and CEO of Demosophia LLC, a local specialty consulting firm that partners with organizations to help diverse groups develop a deeper understanding of complex problems and design a highimpact path forward. “We are very excited to embark on the new strategic planning process,” said Dr. Christopher Marchese, superintendent of the Avon Grove School District. “We encourage all stakeholders to become involved over the next several months. “We are very excited to embark on the new strategic planning process. We encourage all stakeholders to become involved over the next several months. There are exciting times ahead in Avon Grove.” —Dr. Christopher Marchese Avon Grove Superintendent There are exciting times ahead in Avon Grove.” The design phase includes analyzing existing student achievement data and gathering information from a broad group of stakeholders, including conducting a limited number of one-onone interviews; surveying parents, teachers, staff and students in grades six through 12; and holding community forums. The first community forum was scheduled for March 25 at Penn London Elementary School. A second forum to get input from the Latino community is being scheduled for early April. A white paper will be published to report findings after these activities are completed. A representative cross section of the school community will then participate in a work session to help establish priorities and develop an action plan. Participants will be selected following an open application process that will be shared with the community. The planning phase will begin in September 2014. The comprehensive plan will be developed, presented to the community for review and then submitted to the state Department of Education by November. “We are looking forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to create a plan for the school district that includes a unique and rigorous approach to developing our collective goals and aspirations for the district and for the students that we serve,” said Dr. Margie Sharp, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. “The process we are using will not only allow us to complete the comprehensive plan requirements stipulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, but will establish a long-range strategic plan that is truly created by the entire Avon Grove School District community,” she said. In the coming weeks, as the district begins implementing the process, information on how to stay informed and get involved will be shared online and communicated through the news media. “I think this is a great process,” said Brian Gaerity, president of the Avon Grove Board of School Directors. “It is inclusive, thorough and structured. I’m really quite excited about this.” BOOKS/OWEN J. ROBERTS APRIL 2014 KIDS 17 A mix of interesting characters, situations By CINDY THEOBALD This month’s books bring a mix of interesting characters and situations that should keep young readers fascinated as this long winter yields to spring. Picture books, ages 3-to-6 years “Sophie’s Terrible Twos,” written by Rosemary Wells (Penguin, $16.99). It’s Sophie’s second birthday and nothing is right — not her new pink birthday dress, not her yummy blueberry pancakes, or even her special fairy wings. It seems Sophie may have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed. When granny comes to visit Sophie on her birthday, she takes her shopping at Zeke’s Costume Shop. It is here that Sophie finds just the perfect costume to make her terrible two’s birthday just right. Come along on a silly and funny story where Rosemary Wells captures the essence of being two years old. Beginning reader, ages 5-to-8 years “Zeke Meeks,” written by D. L. Green, (Capstone Books, $8.95). Zeke is not too keen on the idea of homework; after all, he has already been in school all day. Now it seems he must come up with a super, special project to present to the class. Zeke gets excited when he finds out his cousin Sam is coming for a visit because it will give him a chance to do something other than work on his project. But, when Sam arrives, Zeke tires of his smart knowit-all cousin. Sam has grown taller than Zeke, taken a manners class and has an annoying way of saying all the right things to the grown ups. When Sam accompanies Zeke to school to help with his project, find out exactly what Zeke’s teacher, Mr. McNutty, thinks of Zeke’s cousin. Could it be that he sees through Sam’s act? Read “Zeke Meeks” to find out. Middle reader, ages 7-to-11 years “New Kid,” written by Tim Green (Harper, $16.99). When you are good at baseball, all you want to do is play. But, when Tommy Rust has the chance to win the championship game, everything goes wrong. His dad shows up just when he gets up to bat and pulls him off the field. Tommy knows this means its time to leave once again because they are on the run. Now he is in a new school, no longer Tommy, he is now Brock Nickerson. When a stupid prank goes wrong, it raises a question as to whether Brock will ever fit in before he has to move to another new town. This baseball story with a twist is sure to become a new favorite. (Cindy Theobald is a bookseller at Chester County Book Company, West Goshen Shopping Center. For updates and information, visit www.chestercounty books.com.) !"" $%% &'() *) $+"!,*!) -*!. 0267!)289 %3!(& :; 26 <=>> 3?.? @(1"! A B!21)8+(1" 06!""6*9 C"*6 DE"*6"! !""# %&& '()* +"&,-."/ 012,'* 21) 3!(4"* 5-! 2&&# !"#$% '( )*+"# ,+$"'(#$+*-. /01+20 !3 4$"# /0$"#$+ 55567+"#8+$"5262!9 :;<=:>:=<??@ ‘Digital book reports’ Sixth grade students at French Creek Elementary School, Owen J. Roberts, created ‘digital book reports’ to share their thoughts on fiction books that they recently read. Given a choice of tools, students used Prezis, Power Points, Glogs, videos and iMovie trailers to showcase their summaries and opinions of the books. For many of the projects, especially the iPad book trailers and movies, students collaborated by acting as characters from the books, or by filming for each other. Although each student was responsible for his/her own book, the use of technology encouraged them to work together for one outcome. HEALTH KIDS 18 APRIL 2014 Tips to help families develop good habits By LEIGH TOBIN YMCA of the Brandywine Valley PARENT MORNING OUT A program for children 18 mos.-to-2 1/2 years offered by Grove Preschool ENROLLMENT OPEN FOR 2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR Drop-off class Tuesday or Wednesday from 9-11:15 a.m. Enrollment is open to children born between March 2012-March 2013. Children will be cared for in a loving and nurturing environment by a Grove Preschool certified teacher and qualified teacher’s aide. Sessions will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis with a maximum of 10 children per class. REGISTER TODAY! 490 W. Boot Road, West Chester phone: 610-696-8107 e-mail: preschool@grovechurch.org web site: www.grovechurch.org After such a long, harsh winter, you and your kids should be eager to get outside and have some fun in the sun. So head outdoors and get active, right through the summer months. Summer is the time for kids to get up and grow, but sometimes when the school year ends, so does a child’s exposure to activities that keep his/her body and mind active. Many kids are less physically active and engaged in learning during the summer months. In fact, research shows that children gain weight two to three times faster during the summer than during the school year. Research also shows that children, particularly from low-income families, fall behind academically because they do not have access to out-of-school learning opportunities. By fifth grade, these children can be two-to-three school years behind middle-income children. Here are five tips to help families develop healthy habits that can continue throughout the summer: • High five the fruits and veggies – Make sure kids get at least five servings a day, the minimum number nutritionists recommend to maintain healthy childhood development. • Foster an early and ongoing passion for books – Read to and with your kids. Help children read at every age and every stage of their development. • Team up for athletic events – Set a family goal of great health by teaming up for community or charity events like races, walks, fun runs, bike rides, etc. • Volunteer together – Find a cause that matters to the kids. Open their eyes to a world beyond themselves and the rich rewards that come from making a difference. • Lead by example – Be a good role model – Kids can be influenced by seeing how hard their parents work at home or on the job, and how rewarding the experience is. Kick-start your child’s physical activity and learning opportunities at the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 26. Free Healthy Kids Day programs will be hosted by Ys throughout Chester County. The free events are open to all kids and families, and feature games, healthy cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts and more to motivate and teach families how to develop a healthy routine at home. Check with your local YMCA branch for details. (Leigh Tobin is a public relations specialist for The YMCA of the Brandywine Valley. For more information, visit www.ymcabwv.org.) Playschool plans fund-raiser The West Goshen Egg Hunt and Decorated Hat Parade Saturday, April 12, 2014 West Goshen Community Park This FREE event is for West Goshen residents age 2 through 9. In the event of postponement due to rain, notification will be posted at www.westgoshen.org. 10:30 AM Arrive early to allow time for parking and to see the Bunny’s arrival by fire engine. Eggs contain candy and, for the older children, coins and small toys. The child who finds the golden egg will receive an egg filled with ten dollar coins. After the Egg Hunt, children wearing decorated hats can join in the parade with the Easter Bunny! Prizes will be awarded for the most original hats. Every child participating in the Decorated Hat Parade will receive a commemorative medal. The Egg Hunt and Decorated Hat Parade is FREE OF CHARGE for residents of West Goshen Township. Guests are encouraged to bring a dry good donation (soap, toilet paper, diapers, shampoo, deodorant, laundry detergent, etc.) to go to the West Chester Food Cupboard, or gifts of new socks, t-shirts, and men’s underwear for the Coatesville Veterans’ Administration Hospital. Register for the West Goshen Egg Hunt and Decorated Hat Parade online at www.westgoshen.org. West Chester Playschool’s 35th annual auction fund-raiser will be Saturday, April 5 at the Westside Entertainment Complex, West Chester. The doors open at 6 p.m.; admission is free and includes complimentary food and beverage. Auction items include original works of art by local artists, four Disney World park hopper tickets, golf outings, yoga and personal training, massage and spa, family photography packages, kids’ birthday parties, gym memberships, YMCA outdoor pool membership, numerous restaurant gift certificates, tickets to sporting events, museums, theaters and many other local attractions and more. Cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted. The auctioneer will be Col. Rodger Paisley. There will also be an auction after party at the Teca restaurant in West Chester. All are welcome to attend and a portion of the purchases will be donated to West Chester Playschool. For more information, visit www.facebook .com/Playschool Auction. West Chester Playschool, 725 W. Miner St., is a non-profit school providing education for preschool and kindergartenaged children. The school is operated and administered by parents. Families combine their talents, along with certified teachers, and work together to create a better school environment for their children. Parents assist in the classroom as well as in the development of playschool programs. APRIL 2014 UNIONVILLE-CHADDS FORD KIDS 19 Chorus performs at Wings’ game A chorus, made up of students from Pocopson and Unionville elementary schools, Unionville-Chadds Ford, performed ‘God Bless America’ and ‘The National Anthem’ at the Philadelphia Wings National Lacrosse League game on Feb. 23. The Minnesota Swarm defeated the Wings 15-14. CHESTER COUNTY DENTISTRY for CHILDREN • Modern Child-Friendly Facilities • Convenient Hours • Competitive Fees • Most Major Dental Plans Accepted • Counseling to Calm Your Child’s Fears • Progressive Dental Techniques Using Lasers • and Digital Radiography North Hills Medical Building 795 E. Marshall Street • Suite 100 West Chester, PA 19380 610-918-2400 Lionville Professional Center 105 Dowlin Forge Road Exton, PA 19341 610-363-2100 JEFFREY M. MELINI, D.M.D. Member: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry American Dental Association Pennsylvania Dental Society www.cckidsdmd.com VOTED “ONE OF THE TOP PEDIATRIC DENTISTS IN DELAWARE VALLEY” BY PHILADEPHIA MAGAZINE 2012 KIDS 20 ALL-STAR BASEBALL APRIL 2014 APRIL 2014 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 PULL OUT & SAVE THIS HANDY REFERENCE GUIDE INSIDE: IN THE COMMUNITY — PAGE A15 SPECIAL NEEDS — PAGE A16 KIDS A1 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 KIDS A2 APRIL 2014 %$%"'#+,&+#(' #% '#!#%%#*,& %%& July through August Explore careers like Animal Science, Game Design, Culinary Arts and more through fun, hands-on learning activities. Our small student groups are taught by subject matter experts in a fun, professional setting. Phoenixville: July 7-11 West Grove: July 14-18 Downingtown: July 21-25 #%( #(%&&%$'#"&"'#%&'% #" ")&' ***(#%&(!!% #% Also offering classes in: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop Modern, Irish Soft Shoe & Pre-Dance More information: 610-594-2771 or www.chestervalleydance.com APRIL 2014 ACTING ANTICS 3 Ravine Rd., Malvern 610 942 4219 www.actingantics.org cindy@actingantics.org Programs and Events: Social skills building through drama and music. Programs for a variety of students with social and/or developmental needs. Peer role models also welcomed. Acting, improvisational comedy, music and movement, musical theater and social events for teens and young adults. New this year — Computer Animation Camp. Tuition: Varies, according to specific program. Some assistance is available. Ages: For three years-through-young adult. Dates and Times: Visit www.acting antics.org to see full schedule. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: Sessions taught by professional educators with specialized training. • ART PARTNERS STUDIO SUMMER 2014 ART CAMPS & CLASSES 524 E. Lincoln Hwy., Coatesville 610-384-3030 www.artpartnersstudio.org info@artpartnersstudio.org Programs and Events: Full-day, weeklong and early evening, once-a-week summer programs are available for emerging artists of all ages. Summer art camps in ceramics, drawing and painting, murals, photography and printmaking encourage creativity for elementary and middle school youth. Art classes, including painting, photography, mixed media and printmaking, offer teens and adults studio hours to focus on their art. Ages: For ages 6-to-8 years, 9-to-12, teens 13+ and adults. SUNSET VALLEY FARM ‘ The Home of Happy Horses’ SUMMER CAMP 2014 Eight sessions — June 23-Aug. 11 for ages 5 and up • 9-1:30 p.m. Programs for Beginners & Intermediate Levels Nurturing & Non-Competitive Environment Horses Accustomed to Children Mini Horse Classes & Crafts Week Ends with a Horse Show 880 Valley Creek Road West Chester, PA For more information: 484-798-8465 www.sunsetvalleyfarms.com SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 Dates, Times and Tuitions: Full-day camps meet from 9:30-3:30 p.m. and early evening class meets for 2-to-3 hours on a varying schedule. Camp prices range from $25-$175/week and evening class tuitions vary. Scholarships are available for many income levels. Please request an application to determine cost. • BOOK FAMILY FARM SUMMER DAY CAMP “HALLELUJAH HORSES” 251 S. Sandy Hill Rd., Coatesville 610-857-9127 www.hallelujahhorses.com Program and Events: Boys and girls will learn about (and take part in) feeding, caring for and riding horses. We are all about having fun with horses as we discover how God created these awesome creatures for our use. Riders will participate in a daily devotional that teach them about God’s love for them. Camp designed to build confidence and self-esteem, provide foundational knowledge and skills necessary for good horsemanship. Students need to wear a secure shoe with a one-inch heel and bring a lunch. Tuition: $325/week. Ages: For boys and girls nine years and up. Dates and Times: Monday through Friday from 9-3 p.m.; June 16-20 — basic horsemanship for all level riders; June 2327 — western horsemanship for level 1 and up riders; July 7-11 — introduction to jumping for level 1 and up riders; July 21-25 — advanced horsemanship for level 2-3 riders; July 28-Aug. 1 — basic horsemanship for all level riders; and Aug. 11-15 — basic horsemanship for all level riders. Miscellaneous: Our instructors are (Continued on page A4) KIDS A3 Evolution Training Center Evolution Training Center, LLC, West Chester, offers a summer horseback riding program for youth ages 6-to-14 years. The Evolution staff teaches safe and effective riding and barn management skills. Campers also will see demonstrations from the veterinarian and the blacksmith. At the end of each week, campers can show their families what they’ve learned at the Friday horseshow. For more information, visit www.EvolutionHorseTraining.com. SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 KIDS A4 (Continued from page A3) qualified and we have lots of volunteer help to make sure everyone gets personal attention and stays safe. The camp is for boys and girls, beginners through advanced, who are interested in having fun with horses. Come to our open house on May 17 to meet the camp director and the horses. Sign up on or before May 17 and receive a 10 percent discount. For more information, visit www. hallelujahhorses.com. • BRANDYWINE YMCA 295 Hurley Rd., West Brandywine 610-380-YMCA www.ymcabwv.org/camp Programs and Events: Let your child’s imagination soar at a Y day camp this summer. Full- and half-day camp options include Iddy Biddy Camp, Iddy Biddy Specialty Camps, Camp Brandywine Day Camp, Teen Adventure Camp, Equestrian Camp, Tennis Camp, Fencing Camp, Skateboard Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, Field Games Camp, and more. Kids love the YMCA’s 30-acre campus that includes a swimming pool with water slide, ball fields and trails. Tuition: Call for information; financial assistance available. Ages: Preschool through 17 years. Dates and Times: June 9-Aug. 22 from 9-4 p.m. Extended care option is available from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. Miscellaneous: ACA-accredited Brandywine YMCA summer camp features easy drive up/drop off and pick up. No membership required to sign up for camp. Visit www.ymcabwv.org/camp to download a summer camp guide. Register online, at the YMCA, or by mail. SUMMER 2014 2011 SUMMER BRIGHT LIGHT EARLY LEARNING CENTER SUMMER CAMP 2014 • JUNE 24-AUG. 22 • ages 6 to 12 • Family owned/operated • 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Fun weekly themes Activities include field trips, arts and crafts, swimming, and much more! 610.458.5428 70 Senn Drive, Chester Springs, PA 19425 www.brightlightelc.com APRIL 2014 Jennersville YMCA 880 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove 810-869-YMCA www.ymcabwv.org/camp Programs and Events: Your child will make lasting memories at a Y day camp this summer. Jennersville YMCA’s full- and half-day camp options feature a summer full of fun —Camp Chippewa, Preschool Camp Discovery, Sports Camps, Teen Camps, Aquatic Adventure Camp, Center Stage Camp, Drama Camp, Diva Camp, Creative Kids Camp, Mad Science Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp and more. Kids love running and playing on the YMCA’s 16-acre campus, featuring three swimming pools, two water slides, ball fields, pavilions, playground and access to the YMCA’s indoor facilities. Tuition: Call for information; financial assistance is available. Ages: Ages 3-to-10th grade. Dates and Times: June 9-Aug. 29 from 9-4 p.m. Extended camp time option from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. available. Miscellaneous: ACA-accredited camp features easy drive up/drop off and pick up. No membership required to sign up for camp. Visit www.ymcabwv.org/camp to download a summer camp guide. Register online, at the YMCA, or by mail. Kennett Area YMCA 101 Race St., Kennett Square 610-444-YMCA www.ymcabwv.org/camp Programs and Events: Get ready for an awesome summer adventure at a Y day camp. Kennett Area YMCA’s full- and halfday camp options feature traditional Camp Lenni Lenape, Full-Day Sports Camps, Specialty Camps, Adventure Camps to include Alpine Tower and Skateboarding, Full-Day Montessori Preschool Camp, Full-Day and Half-Day Preschool Camp, Traveling Teen Camp, Leader-In-Training and Counselor-InTraining Camps and opportunities for junior counselors. Tuition: Call for information; financial assistance is available. Ages: From 3-to-17 years. Dates and Times: June 9-Aug. 22 from 9-4 p.m.; 9-noon or 1-4 p.m. half day. Extended camp time available from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. Miscellaneous: ACA-accredited camp features easy drive up/drop off and pick up and optional extended camp time, before and after camp. No membership required to sign up for camp. Visitwww.ymcabwv.org/camp to download a summer camp guide. Register online, at the YMCA, or by mail. Octorara YMCA Program Center 104 Highland Rd., Suite 1, Atglen www.ymcabwv.org/camp Programs and Events: Your kids won’t want the day to end at a Y summer camp. Octorara YMCA summer camp offers recreational games, field trips, swimming, arts and crafts, sports, nature, drama and more. Weekly camp themes like “Amazing Race” and “Creepy Crawly” give campers the chance to have fun and make lasting memories. Preschoolers will enjoy full- or half-day camp, with theme-based weeks filled with stimulating hands-on activities, literacy-based crafts and songs and games to nurture their love of learning. Tuition: Call for information; financial assistance is available. Ages: From 3 to 17 years, with counselors-in-training for seventh(Continued on page A5) EVOLUTION TRAINING CENTER SUMMER CAMP 2014 A motivated and fun learning experience • Qualified Trained Staff • Safe, Experienced Horses • Beginners to Advanced Riders • Cross Country Rides & Lessons • Before & After Care • • Swim in the Brandywine on Horseback • Friday Camp Horse Shows • • Demonstrations from the veterinarian and the blacksmith • We emphasize true horsemanship. We teach safe and effective riding, barn management skills, and responsibility for feeding, cleaning and caring for a horse. In addition to camp, Evolution Training Center offers weekly lessons, horseshows, paper chasing, fox hunting and much more! West Chester • 484-880-1387 etcschock@gmail.com • www.EvolutionHorseTraining.com EAGLE CENTER for LEARNING Tutoring Services • Summer Learning June 16-Aug. 21 REGISTER by APRIL 16 and RECEIVE a FREE WATER BOTTLE & CINCH BACKPACK! • Field trips: Dutch Wonderland, Spring City Pool, Colonial Theatre and Elmwood Zoo • Performances: Mad Scientist, Magician, Great Valley Nature Center • Activities: Face Painting, Cupcake Decorating, Water Slides, Talent Show • Endless Crafts, Games, Sports and more!! • Nutritious Lunch and Two Snacks Included FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT US AT: CampMemories@magicmemories.org MAGIC MEMORIES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 897 Valley Forge Road, Phoenixville 610.983.0229 • www.magicmemories.org A@<BC8DE7=ACFC8D7$(G7H<FI eaglecenterforlearning@yahoo.com !!!"#$%&#'#()#*+,*&#$*(-(%"',. /01234526114 /3 8" 9,)):),!( 9-;# <'*,:: +*,. =$!$ -( )># ?-&&$%# ,+ @$%&# Experience with students who have learning differences SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 APRIL 2014 (Continued from page A4) through-ninth graders and junior counselors for 10th-through-12th graders. (Summer care for infants is also available, check for availability). Dates and Times: June 9-Aug. 22 from 9-4 p.m. full-day; 9-noon or 1-4 p.m. halfday. Extended camp time available from 79 a.m. and/or 4-6 p.m. Miscellaneous: ACA-accredited summer camp features easy drive up/drop off. No membership required to sign up for camp. Visit www.ymcabwv.org/camp to download a summer camp guide. Register online, at the YMCA, or by mail. Oscar Lasko YMCA Youth Program Center 1 E. Chestnut St., West Chester 610-696-YMCA www.ymcabwv.org/camp Programs and Events: Kids love specialty camps at the Oscar Lasko YMCA Youth Program Center, so hurry in to reserve your spot. New this year, Camp Chestnut, full- and half-day traditional camp. Specialty camps include i, gymnastics, theater, music, mystery, cartooning, art and more. The Y has something for every child. Mix and match AM and PM camps to make a full-day or choose just morning or afternoon camps. Optional Spark Time extended hours round out the day. Tuition: Call for information or view our camp guide on the web at www. ymcabwv.org/camp. Financial assistance is available. Ages: From 3-to-15-years. Dates and Times: June 23-Aug. 29 from 9-noon or 1-4 p.m. Extended camp time available from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. Miscellaneous: No membership required to sign up for camp. Visit KIDS A5 www.ymcabwv.org/ camp to download a summer camp guide. Register online, inperson at the YMCA, or by mail. West Chester Area YMCA 605 Airport Rd., West Chester 610-431-YMCA www.ymcabwv.org/camp Programs and Events: Explore a place for fun and adventure each day at our summer day camp. The Y offers an array of exciting ACA-accredited camp programs, including traditional day camp (Camp Winnipeg), horse camps, preschool camp, teen leadership camp and more. Tuition: Call for information. Financial assistance is available. Ages: From 3-to-15 years. Dates and Times: June 23-Aug. 29. Full-day programs 9-4 p.m.; half-day programs 9-noon, or 1-4 p.m. Extended hours available from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. Miscellaneous: No membership required to sign up for camp. Visit www.ymcabwv.org/camp to register online, download camp guide and forms, or visit our branch for a full camp packet. • BRIGHT LIGHT EARLY LEARNING CENTER SUMMER CAMP 2014 70 Senn Dr., Chester Springs 610-458-5428 www.brightlightelc.com Program and Events: Weekly themes, field trips, swimming, arts and crafts, special visitors and much more. Tuition: Information available on our web site. Ages: For ages 6-to-12 years. Dates and Times: Monday through Friday, June 24-Aug. 22 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. • (Continued on page A6) !"#$%&'%()*%+,$-.!/0-*%1$22*! GH""*,%#$"IG West Chester Performing Arts West Chester Studio for the Performing Arts features theater camps for boys and girls ages 4-to-17 years at its studio at the Chester County Historical Society, 225 N. High St., West Chester. Camps include Storybook Theater (ages 4-to-7); Creative Theater (ages 7-to-10); Theatrical Production Jr. (ages 8-to-11); Improvisation Week (ages 9-to-13); Glee Week (ages 9-to-17); Theatrical Production (ages 11-to-17); and Acting for the Camera Workshop (ages 11-to-17). For more information, call 484-995-2915 or visit www.westchesterstudio.com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�H'. ! */&0 IJ ! < 9'/H+ "(&!K&&L 0&00'"(0 *>2 ?*0@ A>2' =! ! 4-/-0+ IC !"# %"#& '()"#%*+'"( "( *(, ") "-# .#"/#*%0 111234546789!45:;4:382<5= !"" !" $%&&'( )*''+ ,-. /0123245012. 67 8!!9 6:02' ; < ";=<8;8 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 KIDS A6 (Continued from page A5) CAMP CADET of CHESTER COUNTY 610 268-2102 www.cccampcadet.org Program and Events: Cadets live in an atmosphere modeled after the State Police Academy, where emphasis is placed on improving self-discipline, confidence and self-esteem. During an action-packed week, cadets will learn teamwork and the benefits of making good decisions as well as respect for authority and each other. Cadets will be challenged to work hard from start to finish in this highly structured program, but will also enjoy plenty of fun activities associated with a traditional summer camp. Concluding the week with a military style graduation ceremony will instill a sense of accomplishment for all. Tuition: There is no cost to attend. Ages: For boys and girls ages 11-to-13 years who reside or attend school in Chester County. Dates and Times: Overnight camp from Aug. 10-15. Applications accepted online through May 15. Miscellaneous: This unique concept called “Camp Cadet” was the vision of a single Pennsylvania state trooper in Butler in 1970 as a way to promote good relations between police and young people. Today that vision is thriving throughout the Commonwealth, as there are 26 different Camp Cadet programs, including the State Police Commissioner’s Honor Camp. Our proud tradition in Chester County began in 1971, allowing boys and girls to experience a variety of law enforcement activities, while promoting positive interaction with the professionals who serve their communities. Troopers and other specially selected law enforcement professionals, both male and female, serve as counselors. Our staff generously donates its off-duty time, allowing them to remain on-site for the entire week to create and share in this unique and thrilling cadet experience. Questions: director@cccampcadet .org. • CAMP LEO Lionville Community YMCA 100 Devon Dr., Exton 610-363-9622 www.umly.org/camp Programs and Events: Summer camp is full of exploration and fun at Camp Leo. Full-day kinder camp for children 3-to-5years-old and day camp for 6-to-15-yearolds. Specialty camps include full-day and half-day programs in arts, dance and nature. Sports camps include basketball, tennis, golf and aquatics. Dates and Times: June 16-Aug. 22. Full- and half-day options. (9-4 p.m.) Before- and after-camp extended hours are available. Tuition: Financial assistance is available. Contact the YMCA for information. • CAMP MEMORIES MAGIC MEMORIES CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 897 Valley Forge Rd., Phoenixville 610-983-0229 CampMemories@magicmemories.org www.magicmemories.org/ Program and Events: Weekly themes based on games, field trips, crafts, sports, activities, exploration, gardening and more. Snacks and nutritious lunch included. Tuition: Competitive prices; call us today to schedule a tour. Ages: Camp Jr. for ages three and four years (children entering Pre-K); Camp Memories for ages 4-to-12 years (children entering kindergarten to fifth grade). Dates and Times: June 16-Aug. 22 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Transportation: Only provided via school bus for Camp Memories off-site field trips. Miscellaneous: Two snacks and lunch included in tuition; educated and experienced staff; child-directed activities and programs; small setting, safe and secure environment/location; and various off-site trips and activity themes. Enroll by April 15 and receive a free water bottle and cinch-backpack. • CAMP UMLY Upper Main Line YMCA 1416 Berwyn-Paoli Rd., Berwyn 610-647-9622 www.umly.org/camp Programs and Events: Kids make lasting memories and new friends at Camp UMLY. Full-day and half-day camps for children two years and older. Kids have a blast at Camp UMLY, with programs like Super Heroes, Around the World in 80 Games and Renaissance Fair. Specialty camps in arts, nature and sports round a summer of fun. Popular camps like fishing and tennis and our overnight camps sell out quickly, so register early. Dates and Times: Early sessions for younger children begin May 26. Most camps run June 16-Aug. 22. Tuition: Financial assistance is available. Contact the YMCA for information. • CFS SUMMER DAY CAMP 1001 E. Lincoln Hwy., Exton 610-363-9622, ext. 2245 APRIL 2014 www.umly.org/camp Programs and Events: Activities include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, tennis, soccer, basketball, nature and performing arts on the beautiful campus of The School at Church Farm. Ages: For ages 4 1/2-to-12 years Dates and Times: June 23-Aug.15; Tuition: Financial assistance is available. Contact the YMCA for information. Miscellaneous: We’ve been making memories for 39 years. • CHESTER COUNTY ART ASSOCIATION 100 N. Bradford Ave., West Chester 610-696-5600 www.chestercountyarts.org Programs and Events: Art classes for kids — everything from sculpture to photography, fashion design to recycled art. For spring classes and summer camps, go online to register. Ages: From three-to-18 years. Dates and Times: Summer camp — Session 1 — June 16-20; Session 2 — June 23-27; Session 3 — June 30-July 3; Session 4 — July 7-11; 3; Session 5 — July 14-25; Session 6 — July 28-Aug 1; Session 7 — Aug 4-15; and Session 8 — Aug 1822. In some sessions, younger children can meet for hour-and-a-half classes each day. Older children meet for three hours a day. Come for morning or afternoon classes or both. Miscellaneous: All of CCAA's artistteachers have degrees in the arts; young artists learn about art history's major art movements, famous artists, art techniques and arts from other cultures in hands-on, creative ways. Visit our web site to register or call 610-696-5600 for more information. (Continued on page A7) (#)*'+,- &+*.*)/ *+&, -./&+0+.1 234&/56&'/4 * Malvern DayCamp ;!<:6((' = >6<<': ?!('@!AA = 668B+0 /+C "6:'DDD ™ atStonybank k !""#$ &'"( !"# %!&'( )*+' ,- . /*0*(& 112 13,4 3,4 5 &6 ,3 7''8 9:60:!"( !"# % &'() ®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ontinued from page A6) CHESTER COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT SUMMER CAREER ACADEMIES 455 W. Boot Rd., Downingtown 484-237-5525 sca@cciu.org www.cciu.org/summer Programs and Events: A variety of quality career exploration programs offered at the Technical College High School’s Brandywine, Pennock's Bridge, and Pickering campuses, and the Chester County Intermediate Unit. Tuition: Ranges from $215-$365, depending on the academy. Ages: Entering grades 5-through-9. Dates and Times: From July 7-25. Transportation: No • CHESTER VALLEY DANCE ACADEMY, LLC 130 S. Village Ave., Lionville 610-594-2771 chestervalleydanceacademy.com. Programs and Events: Performing arts theater workshops, theme classes for the younger ones and Ballet Intensive program offered. Students are instructed in tap, jazz, ballet, acting, arts and crafts, hair and makeup with a demonstration at the end of the week. Six-week summer dance session features ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern and Irish step dancing as well as the theater program which teaches voice, acting and theater dance. Every student participating in the theater program will perform in an in-house performance in August. Dates and Times: Call for information. • DARLINGTON ARTS CENTER SUMMER ARTS CAMP 2014 “Tales from Near & Far” 977 Shavertown Rd., Garnet Valley 610-358-3632 www.darlingtonarts.org info@darlingtonarts.org Program and Events: Music, art, dance and drama every week. Explore new art forms from cultures around the world through famous and treasured stories. Professional teaching artists and friendly counselors lead energetic activities that inspire campers to connect and create while making new friends and having lots of fun. Join us for the entire journey around the world, or pick your weeks. Full day, half day, and partial week are available. Arts Intensive Camps are offered for students wishing to advance their artistry in one art form each week. Download a brochure online at www.darlingtonarts.org. Ages: From 3-to-14 years (divided into groups by age). Dates, Times, Tuition: Camps offered weekly from June 16-Aug. 28. Sign up by April 1 and save 10 percent. Full-day arts camps run Monday through Friday from 93 p.m. and cost $275 per week. Half-day sessions are Monday through Friday from 9-noon and cost $150 per week; $105 for Monday-Wednesday-Friday and $70 for Tuesday-Thursday. Arts Intensive Camps are Monday through Friday from 93 p.m., and cost $300. Extended day is available for all campers (call for pricing and availability). Weekly Themes: June 16-20 (three camps) — “Fairies & Trolls,” “Imagination Showcase” and “Visual Art Intensive;” June 23-27 — “A Hero’s Quest;” June 30July 3 — “Volcano Island;” July 7-11 “Dragons & Castle;” July 14-18 (two camps) — “Africa’s Animals” and “Visual Art Adventure;” July 21-25 (two camps) — “Tales of the Firebird” and “Visual Art Intensive;” July 28-Aug 1 — “Magical (Continued on page A8) KIDS A7 Greylyn Farm Greylyn Farm Horse Lover’s Riding Camp offers ‘a week of horse loving’ fun’ at its five camp sessions in Chadds Ford from June 30-Aug. 1. Camp features daily mounted riding instruction, safety clinics, grooming, feeding, veterinarian clinics, blacksmith visits, trail riding, picnics, paint-a-pony, horse show prep, games, crafts, Friday horse show, pony baths, relays, mane braiding, nature hikes and stable management. For more information, call 610388-JUMP or visit www.greylynfarm.com. EXPERIENCES When school’s out let the summer fun begin! ESF provides your camper with amazing experiences they’ll take with them forever. Day, Sport, and Specialty Camps for boys & girls ages 3-15 AT MONTGOMERY SCHOOL CHESTER SPRINGS, PA 610-581-7100 www.esfcamps.com/Montgomery SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 KIDS A8 2014 (Continued from page A7) Summer Programs Co-Ed Programs for Grades 3 - 12 Academics Sports Fun! Register Online at: malvernprep.org/SummerPrograms Step By Step Children’s House SUMMER CAMP 2014 JUNE 16-AUG. 22 Sports Day Water Day Music Yoga Half Day & Full Day Options Join us for Sun, Fun and Friendship! REGISTER NOW! Black Hawk Center 703 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown • 610-269-5110 www.stepbystepchildrenshouse.com (10% off new full-time enrollment until June 2013) ALL RATES INCLUDE BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND TWO SNACKS Myths;” Aug 4-8 — “Fables & Fantasy;” Aug 11-15 — “Indian Palaces & Villages;” Aug 18-22 (two camps) — “Visual Art Intensive” and “The World of Musical Theater;” and Aug 25-28 — “Dance Discovery.” • EAGLE CENTER for LEARNING SUMMER LEARNING PROGRAMS 64 N. Pottstown Pike, Suite 1 Chester Springs 610-458-2005 Program and Events: Individual tutoring in reading, writing and math for all grade levels. SAT and ACT test prep, help with writing college admission essays. Experience with students with learning differences. Tuition: Call for individual rates. Pay in full by June 1 and receive a 10 percent discount. Dates and Times: June 9 through Aug 22. Flexible schedules are available. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: Enrichment activities also available. We are located on Rt. 100 across the street from Wawa in Eagle. • ESF SUMMER CAMPS at MONTGOMERY SCHOOL Summer: 1141 Rt. 113, Chester Springs Winter: P.O. Box 505 Haverford, Pa., 19041 610-581-7100 www.esfcamps.com Programs and Events: Mini Camp (age three) is a fun-filled, first-camp experience. Enjoy musical adventures, science and nature, crafts, water play, sports, theme days and more. Full- and half-day options offered. Day camp (ages 4-to-8 years) is pure fun and includes daily swim instruction plus exciting, hands-on activities: art, sports, science, drama, Innovation Lab, fencing, martial arts, archery, Gaga, special events, theme days and more. Sports camp (ages 6-to-14) The ultimate sports camp. Learn and play 9 sports weekly! Top-notch instruction geared to a variety of skill levels. Learn and play 2-3 different sports each day including: baseball, basketball, European team handball, flag football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, and street hockey. Daily swimming featured. Senior Camp (ages 9to-15) Adventure-filled experiences that broaden the horizons of the older camper! Reach new heights through innovative True Life Adventures. Build friendships while enjoying award-winning activities: art, swimming, teambuilding, sports, fencing, martial arts, archery, ESF Saddle Club (optional horseback riding), Gaga, Oracle Travel Games and more. Tuition: Two-to-9-week options available; call for details. Ages: Boys and girls ages 3-to-15 years. Dates and Times: Camp runs from June 16 through Aug. 15 with 2-to-9-week sessions available. Monday through Friday from 9-3 p.m. Club O.T., our extended day program, allows campers to arrive as early as 7:45 a.m. and stay as late as 6 p.m. Due to the camps’ objectives and unique format, enrollment is limited. Miscellaneous: ESF provides awardwinning, carefully designed programs and activities, a dedicated, experienced and well-trained staff, and a caring, safe environment with premier facilities. Through education, sports and fun, ESF offers opportunities for campers to believe in themselves and to achieve their full potential. • EVOLUTION TRAINING CENTER, LLC West Chester www.EvolutionHorseTraining.com APRIL 2014 Program and Events: Visit our web site to view the summer program for horseback riding. Tuition: $350 per week, with reduced fees for multiple weeks or multiple children. Pay Pal available for credit cards and deposits. Ages: For beginners and intermediate riders from 6-to-14 years. Dates and Times: Visit the “camp tab” on our web site. Miscellaneous: Safe, experienced horses, a qualified, trained staff and before- and after-care. We teach safe and effective riding and barn management skills. At the end of each week, campers can show off all they have learned for their parents and family at our Friday horseshows. Campers will see demonstrations from the veterinarian and the blacksmith, and get to swim in the Brandywine on horseback. • FUTURE AVIATORS SUMMER CAMP 1235 Newark Rd., Toughkenamon 610-268-2619 www.newgardenflyingfield.com Programs and Events: The New Garden Flying Field is offering young people the excitement and discovery of aviation in a summer day camp setting. The five-day camp includes an educational air show, science projects, challenge activities, museum and airport tours, model rockets, R/C airplanes, hot air balloons and other aviation experiences. Tuition: $350 Ages: For youth ages 7-to-15 years. Dates and Times: July 14-18 and Aug. 11-15 from 9-3 p.m. Miscellaneous: All campers will have the opportunity to take the controls of an airplane during an introductory flight and experience the thrill of what it’s like to be a pilot. • THE GODDARD SCHOOL MARSHALLTON 630 Sugars Bridge Road, West Chester 610-431-1330 goddardschool.com Program and Events: Daily activities include science and nature, creative arts, music and movement, and sensory exploration developed around weekly themes, puppet theaters, musicians, animal shows and more. Special activities include on-site visitors, special events and weekly sprinkler days. Tuition: Call for specific rates. Ages: From six weeks-through-5 years. Dates and Times: June 16-Aug. 28; Monday through Friday from 7-6 p.m. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: The Goddard School in Marshallton offers an interactive summer camp filled with fun. We offer programs from two half-days up to five full days to meet the needs of every family. • GREYLYN FARM HORSE LOVER'S RIDING CAMP 1550 Hillendale Rd., Chadds Ford 610-388-JUMP www.greylynfarm.com Program and Events: Riders enjoy a week of horse lovin' fun! Daily mounted riding instruction, safety clinics, grooming, feeding, veterinarian clinics, blacksmith visits, trail riding, picnics, paint-a-pony, horse show prep, games, crafts, Friday horse show, pony baths, relays, mane braiding, nature hikes and stable management are some of the fun and exciting things campers will do at the Greylyn Farm Horse Lover’s Riding Camp. Tuition: $300 per session; $25 discount per session for campers participating in two or more weeks. Ages: From 6-to-14 years. (Continued on page A9) SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 APRIL 2014 (Continued from page A8) Dates and Times: June 30-July 4, July 7-11, July 14-18, July 21-25 and July 28Aug. 1 from 9-5 p.m. Miscellaneous: Greylyn Farm Horse Lover’s Riding Camp is directed by Rachael Tennyson Gallagher, Chester County Horse Show Association Trainer of the Year in 2010 and 2012. Horses and ponies are gentle and experienced members of Greylyn Farm. Many of our camp instructors are accomplished champion riders and ribbon winners at the Devon Horse Show. This is our 31st year and we are looking forward to a summer of horse lovin' fun. We have a new location in Chadds Ford. • HARRISON’S DANCE and GYMNASTICS CAMP West Chester and Downingtown 610-692-6144 or 610-430-8219 www.harrisondancestudios.com Program and Events: Ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics and Tiny Tots program. Tuition: Varies with program. Ages: For ages 3-and-older. Dates and Times: Monday-Friday afternoons, with some morning classes. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: Harrison’s is the only studio to be named the area’s best 14 consecutive years. For the past four years, two or three Harrison dancers, on average, have won Radio City Music Hall auditions. In the recent Starpower National Partnering Championships, Christine Harrison’s choreography won the highest score at the All-American Talent Competition. • INDIAN SPRINGS DAY CAMP Chester Springs 610-827-9444 indiansprings59@aol.com www.indianspringsdaycamp.com Contacts: Michael Mackrides and Ted Furman. Programs and Events: Crafts, nature, boating, fishing, paddleboat, climbing wall, zip line, tunnel slides, soccer, football, softball, dance, cookouts, hockey stadium, golf and individual horseback riding program. Four-, five-, six-, seven- and eight-week programs available. Tuition: Call for brochure or visit our web site. Ages: From 3-through-14. Dates and Times: June 23-Aug. 15. New — extended hours program from 7:30 a.m. drop-off to 5:30 p.m. pick up. Transportation: Door to Door Miscellaneous: Located on 46 beautiful acres in Chester Springs; lunch provided; small groups with limited enrollment. Camp enjoying its 56th year in operation. • LITTLE FACES CHILDCARE CENTER 426 West Gay St., West Chester 610-344-7785 www.littlefaceswc.com Program and Events: Full-day summer camp program with weekly themed-based activities, arts and crafts, field trips, swimming, music and more. Ages: From 3-to-12 years. Dates and Times: June 26-Aug. 25 Miscellaneous: Little Faces is located within a 6,500-square foot facility that includes a full-size gymnasium for active play. Tuition includes breakfast lunch, two snacks daily and weekly soccer. We are two blocks away from the Chester County Justice Center in West Chester. • (Continued on page A10) KIDS A9 Brandywine YMCA Brandywine YMCA, West Brandywine, challenges youth from preschoolthrough-17 years to their imagination soar at one of its many camp options. Offerings range from Biddy Camp to Camp Brandywine Day Camp, to Equestrian Camp to Skateboard Camp and much more. The Y’s 30-acre campus includes a swimming pool with water slide, ball fields and trails. Camp runs from June 9-Aug. 22 from 9-4 p.m., with an extended care option from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. For more information, call 610-380-YMCA or visit www.ymcabwv.org/camp. YMCA OF THE UPPER MAIN LINE DISCOVER a place for fun and adventure every day! Specialty Camps Sports Camps Teen Camps Full and Half-Day Camps More! Camp UMLY UMMER CAMPS SUMMER Ages 2 to 18 UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA Whether you're looking for the perfect summer quest for your little adventurer or a way for your child to perfect some seriously thrilling skills, The Little Gym Summer Camps have something for everyone! Plus, flexible scheduling options allow you to schedule several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time! Call or schedule a free introductory class online. Call or schedule a free introductory class online. The Little Gym of Exton The Little Gym of Exton www.TLGExtonPA.com www.TLGExtonPA.com 610-363-2350 610-363-2350 $10 OFF Family Membership with this ad! Exp. 5-15-14 1416 Berwyn-Paoli Road, Berwyn, 19312 610-647-9622 Camp Leo Ages 3 to 15 LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA 100 Devon Drive, Exton, PA 19341 610-363-9622 Camp at the Ages 4! to 12 School at Church Farm 1001 East Lincoln Highway, Exton, PA 19341 610-363-9622 Download a camp guide! www.umly.org/camp Register Now! SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 LITTLE GYM of EXTON ANYTIME SUMMERTIME CAMP 260 N. Pottstown Pike, Exton 610-363-2350 www.TLGExtonPA.com Program and Events: The Little Gym’s specially developed camp curriculum combines physical activity, gymnastics and play with arts, crafts and special events. Each week has a special theme and each day has a different, creative lesson plan. Your child and their friends will love to go on a new adventure each time they attend camp. Tuition: Call for more information; special deals for multiple camp day purchases or Summer Camp Flex Pass options available. Ages: From 3-to-10 years (kids must be bathroom independent.) Dates and Times: June 16-Aug. 29; Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9noon; and Tuesday and Thursday from 1-4 p.m. Schedule a day, a few days, or several weeks over the summer. Miscellaneous: You can customize your child’s camp days to fit your summer schedule. It’s the perfect air-conditioned break for kids (and parents) during the long summer months. • Summer Art Camp Chester County Art Association THE MALVERN DAY CAMP 20 Creek Rd., Glen Mills 610-558-3200 www.malverndaycamp.com Programs and Events: Campers will discover nature, engage in fitness and athletic events, investigate science, explore art and discover new experiences. Free swim lessons offered for children to learn or enhance their swimming skills. Tuition: Call for rates. Ages: From 5-to-14 years. Dates and Times: June 16 -Aug. 22 from 9-4 p.m.; extended day available from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Miscellaneous: We are an accredited ACA camp on a 15-acre site. Camp allows children to establish new friendships and, more importantly, have fun. • MALVERN PREP SUMMER PROGRAMS Co-ed programs for grades 2-12 Academics and Sports 418 S. Warren Ave., Malvern www.malvernprep.org/SummerPrograms Programs and Events: For a full listing of our academic classes and sport camps offerings and to register online, go to www.malvernprep.org/SummerPrograms. Tuition: Varies per program. Miscellaneous: We hope you will join the Malvern Prep family for a great summer BOOK FAMILY FARM “Hallelujah Horses” Summer Day Camp Classes for Ages 3-18 ART CAMP SESSIONS Session I — June 16-20 Session II — June 23-27 Session III — June 30-July 3 Session IV — July 7-11 Session V — July 14-25 Session VI — July 28-Aug. 1 Session VII — Aug. 4-15 Session VIII — Aug. 18-22 New Artist-Teachers & Exciting New Classes! 100 North Bradford Ave. Online descriptions and registration: chestercountyarts.org West Chester, PA 19382 610-696-5600 for ages 9 years & up All Horses All Day June 16-20 • June 23-27 July 7-11 • July 21-25 July 28-Aug. 1 • Aug. 11-15 10% DISCOUNT if signed up on or before our OPEN HOUSE on May 17 from 10-2 pm 251 S. Sandy Hill Rd.,Coatesville 610-857-9127 www.hallelujahhorses.com hallelujahhorses@verizon.net experience. Whether you choose summer studies or sports camps, we are confident your child will have a productive and fun summer. With a great staff and wonderful facilities, we welcome the opportunity to have your child join us. • PARADISE FARM CAMPS 1300 Valley Creek Rd., Downingtown 610-269-9111 www.paradisefarmcamp.org Programs and Events: Junior camp, day camp and teen leadership program. Ages: For 5-to-16-year-olds. Dates and Times: Eight weekly sessions from June 23-Aug. 15. Junior camp for ages 5-to-7 years; day camp for ages 8-to12 years; and teen camp for ages 13-to-16 years. Miscellaneous: Since 1875, Paradise Farm Camps have been providing a high quality youth development program in Chester County. We are fortunate to have 600 acres of scenic, natural resources to enjoy and explore. Camp tours available upon request. American Camp Association accredited. • THE PLAYHOUSE SUMMER THEATER CAMP 104 Highland Rd., Atglen 610-593-8242 !"# %&'(!)* +, %-./ 0 ()#1 2'adult (Continued from page A9) Summer Art Camps & Classes KIDS A10 Ceramics, drawing, painting, mixed media, photography, printmaking and more! 524 East Lincoln Hwy. Coatesville, PA 19320 610-384-3030 www.artpartnersstudio.org APRIL 2014 www.oahstheater.wikispaces.com oahspad@gmail.com Program and Events: Vocal training, acting and theater basics, costume and set design and choreography. All experience levels welcome – no audition necessary. This year’s production will feature the popular “Seussical, Jr!” Tuition: $250/two-week program ($225 if paid by April 30); $200/each additional sibling ($180 if paid by April 30). Late pickup is available for an additional cost. We have a limited number of partial scholarships to help offset the cost of the camp. Ages: For kids 8-to-14 years. Dates and Times: July 7-10 and July 1417 from 8-4 p.m. Finale performance scheduled July 17 at 6 p.m. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: A unique opportunity for young students interested in drama and theater to learn about vocal training, acting and staging basics, costume and set design and choreography. Students of all levels can attend and no audition is necessary. Students will learn all the tools to together a production and demonstrate what they’ve learned with a finale performance on the final night of camp. Great resume-building tool. Price includes: two weeks of camp with vocal, acting, set and costume design instruction, activities and theater games, dance and movement activities, snacks/drinks, student copy of vocal libretto and materials for the chosen musical, camp T-Shirt and a lifetime of memories. • SAGINAW DAY CAMP 740 Saginaw Rd., Oxford (Winter: 125 N. Burnt Mill Rd., Cherry Hill, N.J.) 888-477-CAMP (2267) www.saginawdaycamp.com Programs and Events: Swim instruction and free swim daily, go-karts, arts and crafts, all sports, laser tag, 60-foot climbing wall, zip-line, outdoor adventure, cooking, ATVs, fishing and more! Tuition: $405-$455/week (two-week minimum). Ages: From 4-to-15 years. Dates and Times: June 23-Aug. 15 from (Continued on page A11) Summer Camp June 16-August 22 Sign up for Quest Camp at The WCLC! ( "# $ !&' ! & • Fishing • Bowling • Sports • Theater • Arts & Crafts • Swimming )* ! "# “Taking your child on a new adventure everyday!” $%& &'#( !"##$% '($)'$% *)#+! $,-./ %01234-,4256 723859643: !+%;<= !(>? )"7;';><! #)%*( @ EMAIL therese@westchesterstudio.com PHONE 484.995.2915 !"#$%&"#$"'#$()*+,%+- !"#$%&"#$"'#$()*+,%+- <7 And, Field Trips to places like Cherry Crest Farm, Renaissance Faire, Lancaster Science Factory and Laser Quest Now offering week-to-week For children 6-to-12 years For more information on Quest Camp or our preschool, please call 610-913-WCLC (9252) or e-mail us at director@thewclc.com The Whole Child Learning Center 55 Brick Lane, Elverson, PA 19520 610-913-WCLC (9252) SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 APRIL 2014 (Continued from page A10) 9-4 p.m. with extended care available. Transportation: Yes (additional fee). Miscellaneous: Saginaw Day Camp provides a wide variety of activities and a qualified staff. Counselors are carefully screened, interviewed and selected on the basis of skill, enthusiasm and a desire to work with children. We offer a safe and healthy environment which encourages each child to discover and excel at new activities, develop life-long friendships and promote self-confidence. Lunch and snack included daily. • STEP BY STEP CHILDREN’S HOUSE SUMMER CAMP 2014 703 E. Lancaster Ave. Downingtown 610-269-5110 stepbystepchildrenshouse.com Program and Events: Activities include water day, sports day, arts and crafts, music, yoga and outdoor activities. Special events include backyard carnival, field day, and afternoon bridging for pre-K and kindergarten. Tuition: $25/day (8:30-12:30 p.m.); $40/ day (8-4 p.m.) and $50/day (7:30-5:30 p.m.) Ages: From six weeks to six years. Dates and Times: June 16-Aug. 22. Miscellaneous: Flexible schedule — sign up for daily or weekly camps. Each week has a new theme with hands-on activities. Children will be engaged in Montessori materials and outdoor activities, including gardening, water play, sports and art. Snacks provided. • THE STITCHCRAFT STUDIO 2014 SUMMER SEWING CAMPS 1150 Boot Rd., Downingtown 610-873-2484 thestitchcraftstudio.com stitchcraft409@gmail.com Programs and Events: “Learn to Sew,” “American Girl Doll®,” “Summer Fun,” “PJ Party” and "2014 Fall Fashion Show Competition" and more. Tuition: Varies Ages: From 8-to-18 years. Dates and Times: June 16-Aug 22 Miscellaneous: Each week has a different theme with different projects. Our Fall Fashion Show camp is held every week all summer long. Camps range from the very beginner to the very advanced. Camper-toteacher ratio is 3:1 (except for advanced sewers) and each camper has his/her own sewing machine with which to work. • SUMMER VOYAGERS 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern 610-296-6725, ext.115 www.summermatters.org Program and Events: Five-week academic program offering small group academic instruction in reading, math, language arts, written expression and executive function skill building with social and recreational opportunities. Includes integrated speech/language and occupational therapies with option to add afternoon recreation. Tuition: Visit web site or call for details. Ages: For 5-to-10-year-olds. Dates and Times: July 7-Aug. 8, MondayFriday; (program times — half-day 8:15noon; full-day 8:15-4:30 p.m.) Miscellaneous: Reading, language arts and math are taught in small groups by teachers using a multisensory approach and differentiated instruction. Executive function skills building, such as planning, organization, adaptability, impulse control, resilience and persistence, are encouraged. Voyagers are children of average or above average cognitive abilities who, despite many strengths, struggle in one or more academic areas or whose overall academic achievement has dipped just below grade level. An academic program offering small group instruction in reading, math, language arts and written expression with social opportunities Integrated speech/language and occupational therapies Executive function skill building Option to add afternoon recreation Ages 5–10 July 7–August 8, Monday–Friday Half-day 8:15 AM–Noon Full-day 8:15 AM–4:30 PM KIDS A11 (Continued on page A12) ESY services are designed to help students maintain skills and reduce regression during the summer months by incorporating academic, social, behavioral and vocational IEP goals. !"# %& '() *%+,-%./ "0(112 3,)4 5678 Morning academics and afternoon social programs Integrated related services Behavior support *%+,-%./ '.%+49&91+ :)+&). "-;;). !<=).9)+0) 3,)4 7>6?7 Life skills and post-secondary training Week-long overnight independent living residency at local college July 7–August 8, Monday – Friday, 9 AM–3 PM !"#$%&%' #%) *+% Summer L.I.F.E. is a recreational program supporting campers with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s syndrome and campers who have social anxiety or difficulty connecting with their peers. Day and overnight camp Emphasis on strengthening interpersonal skills and self-advocacy Specialty Camps 2:1 camper-to-staff ratio Ongoing behavior support Travel excursions Ages 8–21 1- and 2-week sessions available: August10 –22 www.summermatters.org 610.296.6725 x115 info@summermatters.org SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 KIDS A12 (Continued from page A11) MARSHALLTON, PA.6( 3(78/(22954 LEARNING -57 FOR FUN. 2,(7404. -:4! LEARNING FOR LIFE. 2,(7404. -57 20-,! SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM June 16-Aug. 28 Infants through 6 Years On-site Visitors and Special Events Weekly Sprinkler Days • Infant, Toddler and Preschool • Programs • Full-Day Kindergarten • Full- and Part-time Programs • Experienced Degreed Teachers Contact us today for additional program information and enrollment specials 630 Sugars Bridge Road West Chester 610-431-1330 marshalltonpa@goddardschools.com goddardschool.com Summer L.I.F.E. 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern 610-296-6725, ext. 115 www.summermatters.org Program and Events: Program offers experiential learning and social skills development in the context of summer fun. Designed especially to support campers with high functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, the programs — specialty camps, traditional day camp/overnight camp, and travel excursions — also support campers who have social anxiety or difficulty connecting with their peers. Tuition: Visit web site or call for details. Ages: For ages 8-to-21 years. Dates and Times: Varies with each session; day camp and specialty camps run from 9–3 p.m. daily; travel excursions and overnight camp times vary. Travel excursions in June & August, Traditional Day/Overnight Camp sessions in August. Miscellaneous: Program includes specialty camps, travel excursions, plus day camp and overnight camp in Schwenksville. The Extended School Year Programs ESY at The Vanguard School (ages 6–17) Vanguard Transition Center Summer Experience (ages 18-to-21) 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern 610-296-6725, ext. 115 www.summermatters.org Program and Events: Comprehensive full-day program for students who qualify for ESY in order to maintain skills and to reduce regression over the summer months. Tuition: Call for details. Dates and Times: Monday through SUMMER DANCE & GYMNASTICS Classical Ballet Special Tiny Tots Classes Tap & Jazz Hip-Hop Beginners Welcome West Chester Downingtown Voted the Area’s Best for 14 Years! Call 610-692-6144 or 610-430-8219 www.harrisondancestudios.com Friday, July 7–Aug. 8, from 9-3 p.m. Transportation: Provided by students’ home school districts. Miscellaneous: These programs are designed to maintain skills and to reduce regression through the use of “thematic learning” in small-group and individualized instruction that incorporate academic, social, behavioral and vocational needs of students from individual IEP goals. Afternoon social activities, offer students opportunities to generalize skills and focus on interpersonal skill. • SUNSET VALLEY FARM 880 Valley Creek Rd., West Chester 484-798-8365 www.sunsetvalleyfarms.com Programs and Events: Sunset Valley Farm is situated on 48 acres of pasture and hills complete with running creek. We offer boarding, riding lessons, lesson parties and summer camp from JuneAugust. The summer camp program includes five days of private riding lessons for your child taught by qualified instructors. The consistency of the program gives our students a jump-start into riding properly. The curriculum focuses on developing proper balance, learning the correct riding aids and horsemanship in a non-competitive environment tailored to beginning and intermediate riders. In addition to riding, children engage in mini- horse classes, art projects and enjoy the overall beauty of our property. At Sunset Valley Farm, we are committed to developing your child’s love of horses and providing an unforgettable riding camp experience. Tuition: $335/child per week. Sign up online at www.sunsetvalleyfarms.com. Ages: Boys and girls five years and up. APRIL 2014 Dates and Times: Monday through Friday from 9-1:30 p.m. Before care available from 7-9 a.m.; after care available from 1:30-5 p.m. at rate of $10.00/child per hour. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: Sunset Valley Farm employs only qualified instructors who have a love for horses and care about children. Our ratio is 1:3 and the owner or qualified adult is always present when the students are at the camp. Our ponies are well trained, safe and accustomed to children. All lessons during camp are private and beginners are taught on the lunge line or lead rope. Safety and enjoyment are paramount at Sunset Valley Farm. • THINK LIKE A SCIENTIST! LLC SUMMER CAMPS 780 Miles Rd., Suite F, West Chester 484.678.1602. www.thinklikeascientistllc@gmail.com tlascientist@gmail.com Contacts: Coleen Herbst and Jodi Wooten Programs and Events: Camp for a Cure is a science camp based upon the writings of Eric Carle. Join us as we explore science through literature. Proceeds from this camp are donated to the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for a Cure. Animal Planet! — Join us to classify, create and explore some of our planet's most amazing creatures. Adventures in Science — Join us under the ground, up in space and in our own backyard as we explore some of the astounding features and creatures our earth has to share. Tuition: $150 (registration checks made payable to Think Like a Scientist! llc). (Continued on page A13) APRIL 2014 (Continued from page A12) Ages: Our summer camps are developmentally appropriate for children ages 4-to-8 years. Children must be four years old by Sept. 1, 2013 to participate. Dates and Times: Camp for a Cure — June 9-12; Animal Planet! — July 21-24; and Adventures in Science — Aug. 18-21. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: Our summer camps include a science-themed lesson, literature, exploration time, a craft and a snack. Our explorations encompass sensory play, dramatic play, construction play, math, science, and art. • WEST CHESTER STUDIO for the PERFORMING ARTS Summer Theater Camps are held at: Chester County Historical Society 225 N. High Street, West Chester PA 484-995-2915 www.westchesterstudio.com therese@westchesterstudio.com 2014 Summer Theater Camps Extended Day available for most camps. Work with professionals. Performer /teacher ratio is 8:1. Early registration and multipleweek discounts. Storybook Theater: (ages 4-to-7) June 16-20 and Aug. 11-15 from 9-12:30 p.m. Creative Theater: (ages 7-to-10 years) SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 July 14-18 from 9-12:30 p.m. and Aug. 1115 from 1-4:30 p.m. Theatrical Production Jr.: (ages 8-to-11) July 7-11 from 9-3 p.m. Improvisation Week: (ages 9-to-13) July 28-Aug. 1 from 9-3 p.m. Glee Week: (ages 9-to-17) June 23-27, July 21-25 and Aug. 4-8 from 9-3 p.m. Theatrical Production: (ages 11-to-17) Aug. 18-22 from 9-3 p.m. Acting for the Camera Workshop: (ages 11-to-17) June 30-July 1 from 9-3 p.m. at Great Valley High School TV Studio, Malvern). Miscellaneous: West Chester Studio for the Performing Arts is a community-wide acting and musical theater school. Our teachers are experienced professional actors and provide a high-caliber performing arts education to students of all ages and abilities from Chester County, Delaware County, Wilmington and Philadelphia. • WEST CHESTER PARKS and RECREATION SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM SUMMER DAY CAMP (Hoopes or Everhart Parks) CAMP B.I.G. (West Chester East High School) 401 E. Gay St., West Chester 610-436-9010 KIDS A13 www.west-chester.com/recreation.php Program and Events: Weekly themes, sports, music, crafts, swimming, bus trips and special guests. Tuition: Prices vary depending on camp and camp package. Sibling discount and financial aid available. Ages: Summer day camp — 5-to-10-yearolds; and Camp B.I.G. — 11-to-14-year-olds. Children must be within the age specifications at the start of their respective camps. Dates and Times: Day camp June 23Aug. 15, Monday through Friday, from 7:306 p.m.; and Camp B.I.G. June 23-Aug. 15, Monday through Friday, from 7:30-5:30 p.m. No camp July 4. Transportation: No Miscellaneous: Camp registration deadline is June 11. For more information, call 610-436-9010 or visit www.west- chester.com/recreation.php. • THE WHOLE CHILD LEARNING CENTER, INC. 55 N. Brick La., Elverson 610-913-WCLC (9252) www.thewclc.com Program and Events: Quest campers will enjoy swimming, field trips, sports, crafts and games. There are many flexible programs available. Please call for information and prices. Ages: Adventure Camp for ages 2-to-5 years. Quest Camp for ages 6-to-12 years. Dates and Times: June16-Aug. 22 from 7-6 p.m. daily. Miscellaneous: At the Whole Child Learning Center, you can give your child a summer they will remember forever. Quest Camp is an exciting program designed to take your child on a different adventure every day. • All Sports ester Southern Chemier • Adventure Course with 60 ft. ty’s Pr un Co Climbing Wall & Zip Line Day Camp! • Arts & Crafts • Canoeing • Gymnastics • ATVs • Special Event Days • Instructional & Free Swim Daily Oxford, PA • June 25th – August 17th • Go-Karts REGISTER TODAY! • Archery Limited Space is Available • 888-477-CAMP • Laser Tag • Cooking Visit our Open Houses: 10am – 1pm • Fishing Sunday, April 13 • Sunday, May 18 • Weekly sessions available • 9 AM - 4 PM • Lunch provided daily • Extended hours and transportation available Saginaw Day Camp, 740 Saginaw Road, Oxford, PA www.saginawdaycamp.com GREYLYN FARM HORSE LOVER’S RIDING CAMP Weekly sessions offering fun and education in the art of horsemanship OUR 31st YEAR! Greylyn Farm Horse Lover’s Camp is directed by Rachael Tennyson Gallagher, Chester County Horse Show Association ‘Trainer of the Year’ in 2010 and 2012. Many of our camp instructors are accomplished champion riders and ribbon winners at the Devon Horse Show! And, our horses and ponies are gentle and experienced members of Greylyn Farm. SUMMER 2014 SESSIONS June 30-July 4 July 7-11 • July 14-18 July 21-25 • July 28-Aug. 1 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Mounted Riding Instruction, Feeding, Veterinarian Clinics, Blacksmith Visits, Trail Riding, Picnics, Paint-a-Pony, Horse Show Prep, Games, Crafts, Friday Horse Show, Pony Baths, Relays, Mane Braiding, Nature Hikes, Stable Management 1550 Hillendale Rd., Chadds Ford 610-388-JUMP www.GreylynFarm.com SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2014 KIDS A14 APRIL 2014 summer camp at Chesterbrook Academy ® New discoveries, great friends and fun times for ages 4–12 years. t t t t 4XJNNJOH 4QPSUT BOE HBNFT "SUT BOE DSBGUT 'JFME USJQT BOE FWFOUT t /BUVSF BOE TDJFODF t .VTJD EBODF BOE ESBNB t 4QFDJBMJUZ DBNQT JODMVEJOH LEGO BOE IPSTFCBDL SJEJOH ® .D%FSNPUU %SJWF t http://westchester.chesterbrookacademy.com 2014 TLaS! Summer Camps! Science-themed lesson • Literature • Exploration time • Craft • Snack Sensory play • Dramatic play • Construction play • Math, science and art Sessions 9-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3 p.m. For ages 4-8. Children must be 4 years of age by September 1, 2013 to participate. Camp for a Cure is a science camp based upon the writings of Eric Carle. Join us as we explore science through literature! Proceeds from this camp are donated to the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for a Cure. June 9-12 Animal Planet! Join us at TLaS! to classify, create and explore some of our planet's most amazing creatures! July 21-24 Adventures in Science. Join us under the ground, up in space and in our own backyard as we explore some of the astounding features and creatures our earth has to share! August 18-21 To register: Contact Coleen Herbst and Jodi Wooten at tlascientist@gmail or 484.678.1602. We will mail you the necessary paper work to enroll your child. Full registration fee is required to hold a spot for your child on one of our camp rosters. Brookworth Plaza 780 Miles Road, Suite F, West Chester, PA 19380 www.thinklikeascientistllc@gmail.com Find us on Facebook by searching Think Like a Scientist! llc Art Partners Studio Art Partners Studio, Coatesville, offers summer art camps in ceramics, drawing and painting, murals, photography and printmaking for elementary and middle school students. Full-day camps meet from 9:30-3:30 p.m. For more information, call 610-384-3030 or visit www.artpartnersstudio.org. APRIL 2014 IN THE COMMUNITY KIDS A15 A book about inclusion and acceptance Tooth fairies visit preschoolers Dr. Christine D. Ferrell (center) and the ‘tooth fairies’ — Catherine Berg, RDH (left) and Lisa Curry, EFDA — from the office of Burkland Ferrell Orthodontics of West Chester recently visited students at Grove Preschool, West Chester. The dental staff stressed the importance of brushing and flossing and explained the proper techniques of each. Students were dressed in white hoodies with various food items attached via velcro. The tooth fairies then used a big toothbrush to ‘brush’ the food items off the ‘student teeth,’ followed by a ‘jump rope-size flossing’ to further eliminate food particles. The students also learned a song about how to take care of their teeth and talked about good and bad nutrition. Youth orchestra rehearses for concerts Student musicians in the Chester County Youth Orchestra are rehearsing for their upcoming spring concert season. Public concerts will be held on Sunday, April 27 at 4 p.m. at Fugett Middle School, West Chester, and on Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, West Chester. Tickets will be available at the door: $10/adults; $5/children and seniors. The youth orchestra provides an opportunity for students in grades 6-through-12 to experience the joy of making music with a full symphony orchestra, and allows them to meet fellow musicians from school districts across Chester County. The orchestra is sponsored by the Chester County Intermediate Unit. An Oxford mother of two daughters, one of whom was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at 2 1/2 years, has written “Leah’s Voice,” a fictional book that touches on the difficulties children encounter when they meet a child with special needs. “Children who have a brother or sister with special needs may find it difficult to explain to their friends, or feel disappointed when their friends aren’t more understanding,” said author Lori DeMonia. “Leah’s Voice” tells the story of two sisters facing these challenges. Through her kindness and devotion, one sister teaches by example the importance of including everyone and showing acceptance. “Leah’s relationship with her younger sister inspired me to write the fictional book ...,” said DeMonia. “It seemed to me that there were very few children’s books that had a female character with autism, and I saw the need for an uplifting story that would also show how gifted some children with autism are. “When our daughter Leah was first diagnosed with autismspectrum disorder, the one thing that usually brought her out of a meltdown was giving her art supplies,” she said. “When a friend commented on her artwork being advanced for her age, I started to save some of her work. Since then, Leah has received art grants for five consecutive years from KindTree — Autism Rocks, an organization that celebrates the ability of individuals on the spectrum and the Lane Arts Council based in Eugene, Ore. “It’s such a joy to watch her art style change and to get a sense of what she's feeling through her work,” said DeMonia. “We’ve come a long way.” DeMonia works in behavioral health as a TSS, therapeutic staff support, with special needs children. She is also a parent consultant with The Pennsylvania Education for All Coalition, a group that supports inclusive classroom placement for special needs children. She said her daughter’s inclusion in a regular educational setting and in summer camp has helped her progress tremendously. “Leah’s Voice,” published by Halo Publishing International, can be purchased at Barnes & Noble bookstores or at amazon.com. For more information, visit www.leahsvoice the book.com. SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS A16 SPECIAL NOTES MEDIA REQUEST: A national news producer wants to talk with families trying to find help for a child, teen-ager or young adult in his/her 20s, but who are finding barriers or gaps in the mental health care system. Send a summary of your situation to NAMI Media Relations at bobc@nami.org and copy Meghan; or to Frank@nbcuni.com and include telephone contact information. Only a few personal stories will be selected, but all will be considered. They will be kept confidential until permission is given for use. NEW SCHOOL ENROLLING for FALL 2014. The Parzival Academy (grades 1-through-6) is laying the groundwork for a school based on a Waldorf curriculum, designed to meet the needs of children with learning differences, alternative learning styles, sensory and social sensitivities. The goal is to provide an environment for those for whom conventional academic settings have been non-conducive to learning. Info: 610-5747626. Web site: www.parzivalacademy.org. TAX STRATEGIES for PARENTS of KIDS with SPECIAL NEEDS. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act may affect tax deductibility of medical expenses typically incurred by families with special needs. Info: www.tacanow.org/familyresources/tax-strategies-for-parents-of-kids-with-special-needs/ FREE TRANSPORTATION to HEALTHCARE APPOINTMENTS. Do you need transportation to medical, counseling/mental health, WIC, dental, eye and other health related appointments? Call or visit one of these partner agencies to see if you qualify for the Ride for Health Initiative of Southern Chester County: The American Cancer Society, Human Services Inc., Catholic Social Services, Kennett Area Community Service, Chester County Community Dental, Kennett Consolidated School District, Chester County Department of Youth and Family, La Comunidad Hispana, Chester County Family Literary Program, Maternal and Child Health, Consortium: Family Center, Family Benefits & Healthy Start, Chester County Head Start, Mission Santa Maria, Domestic Violence Center of Chester County, Neighbors in Action, Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems, Oxford Neighborhood Service Center, Home of the Sparrow and United Way of Southern Chester County. PENNSYLVANIA’S YELLOW DOT PROGRAM . This is a new program to assist citizens following a traffic crash when they may not be able to communicate themselves. Placing a yellow dot in your vehicle’s rear window alerts first responders to check your glove compartment for vital health information to ensure that you receive the critical attention you need. For more information and to request a kit, go to www.YellowDot. pa.gov. SIGN UP for the LATINO ADVISORY BOARD NEWSLETTERS. The Latino Advisory Board was created to increase communication and connect existing resources for Latinos in Chester County, while building workforce capacity and identifying issues surrounding mental health and substance abuse. Contact: Luis at Luis.Benites@holcombbhs.org,or 610388-7400. SOCIAL SECURITY and HEALTH BENEFITS WEB SITES in SPANISH. See www.CuidadoDeSalud.gov. Similar to the English version www.HealthCare.gov, the web site offers an insurance finder, explains the Affordable Care Act in step-bystep detail and offers information for families with children, senior citizens, individuals with disabilities and others. The Social Security site, www.segurosocial.gov or www.social security.gov/espanol, includes available applications for retirement, Medicare and extra help with prescription drug costs in Spanish. CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS ADVOCACY CLINIC HOURS. Weekdays or Saturdays. The Arc of Chester County, West Chester. 9-noon. Dr. Lisa Faranda, Joyceann Husted or Connie Mohn, board certified education advocates, will meet with parents, listen and advise on next steps. Can help with letters and follow-up, refer parents to appropriate resources, review IEPs and evaluations, and help parents figure out what to ask. A consultation can serve as a first step to getting the help you need for your child. By appointment only. Call 610-696-8090, ext. 216 for an appointment. Free. All welcome. SPECIAL EDUCATION WORKSHOP. “OVERVIEW of the SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS and the SIX PRINCIPLES of SPECIAL EDUCATION.” April 8. West Grove Borough Building, 117 Rosehill Ave. 9:30-12:30 p.m. Free. Workshop REGISTER ONLINE FOR FREE SCREENING OR CLASS! ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS! MONEY MANAGEMENT WORKSHOPS. April 9. Coatesville Center for Community Health. 5-7 p.m. This workshop is for those who can’t get a bank account. The Foundations of Money Management workshops are designed to help people improve their money management skills and gain access to banking services so that they can reach their financial goals. After attending the workshop, participants may be eligible to open a Foundation Checking Account at PNC Bank, for those who have been shut out of banking due to infractions within the check system. Register in advance: e-mail kathryn@ coatesvillecenter.org, call 610-383-4612, or mail to: CCCH Coordinator, 1001 E. Lincoln Hwy., Coatesville, PA 19320. SPECIAL EDUCATION WORKSHOP. “STUDENT EVALUATION and EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR.” April 15. West Grove Borough Building, 117 Rosehill Ave. 9:30-12:30 p.m. Free. Workshop presented by The Arc of Chester County. Registration preferred but not required. Info: Anita at 610-6968090, ext. 216 or llightner@arcofchestercounty.org. CAN’T GET A JOB? EXPUNGEMENT WORKSHOP. April 22. Coatesville Center For Community Health. 4 p.m. These expungement workshops are designed to help those individuals with criminal histories who may have been denied employment because of their criminal record. Presented by an attorney from Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Participants will learn about the expungement and pardon process, if they might be eligible and learn how to proceed. The attorney will meet individually with each participant to review his/her criminal record. Advance registration required: e-mail kathryn@ coatesvillecenter.org, or mail to CCCH Coordinator, 1001 E. Lincoln Hwy., Coatesville, Pa., 19320. SPECIAL EDUCATION WORKSHOP. “THE IEP – PRESENT LEVELS, STRENGTHS and NEEDS, GOALS and OBJECTIVES.” April 29. West Grove Borough Building, 117 Rosehill Ave. 9:30-12:30 p.m. Free. Workshop presented by The Arc of Chester County. Registration preferred but not required. Info: Anita at 610-696-8090, ext. 216. PARENT TRAINING. “CHAT-N-CHEW: COMPONENTS OF A TRANSITION IEP.” April 30. The Arc of Chester County, West Chester. 11:30-1 p.m. Assessment grids and activities, creating a visual map for transition planning. Bring your lunch; learn about transition and network with other parents. On May 13, a representative from OVR will discuss what services the agency provides, who is eligible and how OVR can help your son or daughter get a job. PARENT TRAINING. “CHAT-N-CHEW: THE OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITIATION.” May 13. The Arc of Chester County, West Chester. 11:30-1 p.m. A representative from OVR to discuss what services it provides, who is eligible and how OVR can help your son or daughter get a job. Bring your lunch; learn about transition and network with other parents. ONGOING TRAINING ADHD. CHADD ADHD TRAININGS and SUPPORT: www.chadd.net and ADHD CHADD training conferences, magazine, parent-to-parent online/on demand classes, support groups. www.chadd.org/Content/CHADD/Conferences_ Training/ParenttoParentProgram/Online_Parent_to_Parent_Cla ss/default.htm. ASCEND EVENTS: www.ascendgroup.org/. AUTISM: TACA WEBINARS NOW AVAILABLE. TACA will hold webinars with featured physicians, researchers, attorneys, therapists and knowledgeable providers to help educate and empower families living with autism. The four topics will include: educational, resources; medical an diet; and The Autism Journey by Age. Info: www.tacanow.org/webinars/. CHADD ADHD ONLINE PARENT TRAINING CONFERENCES: www.CHADD.org/Content/CHADD/ Conferences_Training/ParenttoParentProgram/Online_Parent_t o_Parent_Class/. CHADD AD/HD TRAININGS: www.chadd.org/ 222. CHESTER COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT COURSES: www.cciu.org and click “courses.” THE GOLD BOOK is AVAILABLE ONLINE. Understanding the Office of Intellectual Disability Programs in Pennsylvania: Intellectual Disability and Autism Services, "The Gold Book" is the revised and updated manual that introduces you to the Intellectual disability system and autism services. You'll learn how to register, what the waivers are, different service models and what to do if you have a problem. Also featured: commonly needed forms; lists of resources, contacts and advocacy organizations; and a glossary of terms. Also available in Spanish.You can download the book from the partnership web site: www.temple. edu/thetrainingpartnership/pub/ PaTTAN TRAININGS: www.pattan.net/profdev/training calendar.aspx. PARENT INFORMATION CENTER OF DELAWARE. Workshop offerings: www.picofdel.org. PARENT WORKSHOPS, WEBINARS and AUDIO CONFERENCES. Parent Information Center offers workshops on a wide range of topics to help parents and educators better understand special education and related programs and services. For a list of the scheduled workshops, webinars and conferences, visit www.picofdel.org/services/seminars.asp. Web site: www.picofdel.org/index.asp. PARENT EDUCATION NETWORK. Workshops, newsletter, webinars, archived webinars on You Tube, etc. Stay connected on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ParentEducation NetworkYork; Twitter at twitter.com/#!/PENYork; YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/ParentEdNet; Yahoo! Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/parentednet/. Web site: www.parentednet.org. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT for EDUCATORS. Chester County Intermediate Unit courses. Visit www.cciu.org and click “Professional Learning.” (Compiled by Anita Cutrara, The Arc of Chester County) ALSO OFFERING MEETINGS for PARENTS, TEACHERS & CAREGIVERS of CHILDREN WITH ADHD View a sample class, parent and teacher testimonials, full schedule of classes and locations, and sign up for our monthly email newsle!er on our website! www.tempotherapy.com presented by The Arc of Chester County, West Chester..Registration preferred but not required. Info: Anita at 610-696-8090, ext. 216. CHALLENGES with ADHD? MARK YOUR CALENDARS! SERVICES OFFERED Music Therapy Sessions Adapted Music Lessons Music Lessons Music Together® Classes APRIL 2014 Kesher Israel Congregation, 1000 Pottstown Pike, West Chester All meetings start at 7 p.m. (610) 344-7030 Tuesday, April 8 — ADHD Research Update NOW ENROLLING FOR SPRING · GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE LOCATED IN FRAZER / MALVERN ACTING ANTICS SOCIALIZATION SKILLS THROUGH THEATRE & MUSIC We specialize in working with learning differences. We offer a variety of programs for all ages, all ability levels. Spring Sessions & summer Camps! Are you interested in hearing the latest research regarding ADHD, but don’t have time to keep up with it all? Join CC/ML CHADD board member and registered nurse, Kelly Cavanagh, as she fills you in on the most interesting and enlightening studies of the past few years. Tuesday, May 20 — ‘Can You Be Happy and Have a Child with ADHD?’ As a parent, it’s hard to be happy when you see your child struggling in school or at home. Come hear some ideas that might turn your head around to consider happiness in the midst of difficulties that an ADHD diagnosis brings. Be prepared to laugh and have fun! Tuesday, June 17 — Resource Night Where can you get the help your child needs? From summer camp to social skills training, we have a resource for you. Learn of resources from other members of the group and bring a resource for others that has been helpful for you. H Teen group meetings are cancelled for now. Stay turned for updates. H ** NEW THIS SUMMER: COMPUTER ANIMATION CAMP!!! ** cindy@actingantics.org 610-942-4219 www.actingantics.org All meetings are free and open to the public. Visit us www.chadd.net/222