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Turmeric is a ginger-colored spice that’s been a part of Middle Eastern and East Asian cooking for centuries. The warm and flavorful bitter taste is frequently used in curry dishes. Turmeric however is also widely known for its health benefits and has garnered the attention of nutritionists and physicians worldwide. Curcumin, turmeric’s most active and healing compound, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which has contributing factors in combating osteoarthritis, heart disease and digestive issues. 
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Turmeric is proven to treat arthritis as it helps reduce joint inflammation according to a recent study. A study by the Nirmala Medical Center provided evidence that curcumin is as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs at reducing swelling and tenderness of joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. 
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Another amazing fact about Turmeric is that it can be used to treat wounds, cuts and rashes. Life Sciences concluded that topical application of curcumin has a great therapeutic effect on skin wounds and also concluded that it accelerates wound healing. Add to this its heart health benefits and improved digestion and you can be on your way to better health with just a spoonful of turmeric a day.
 
What is the best way to incorporate this super spice into your diet? Simply sprinkle it on your favorite foods along with a little black pepper to aid with absorption. You can reap these health benefits with a teaspoon of turmeric on salads, soups, and dressings. You can even rub it on your favorite steak before grilling! 
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Turmeric owns the reputation of a powerful anti-inflammatory that can reduce arterial plaque buildup, accelerate wound healing and relieve joint pain. That’s a good reason to spice things up a little when cooking at home! As always, check with your St. John’s Riverside physician before making any changes to your diet and health plan!

It's family time! Camp is over and school doesn't start until after Labor Day. For some parents, this time feels like a gift, a rare opportunity to spend with their children in any way they wish. For others, the next few weeks are a slow countdown to the first day of school. Regardless of your situation, everyone can benefit by trying something new, heading back to a favorite spot, reconnecting with school pals or just soaking up some sun.  

Here are 60 End Of Summer Ideas to keep your kids busy in Westchester or nearby-- recommended by moms in our community. We've got ideas for staycations, daycations and vacations! On the list we have carnivals, festivals, nature centers, zoos, play spaces, amusement parks, playgrounds, farmers markets, museums, ice cream, beaches, pools, spray parks, story times, road trips and more!

1. Dress in your finest Renaissance attire and head to the New York Renaissance Faire. Enter the world of 16th Century England and enjoy themed games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music and dance. Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday, August 4th thru September 30th.

2. Last call for all the pirates out there! Pirate Quest runs till August 25th. Pint-sized pirates can set their sails to Philipsburg Manor.

3. Starting August 21st and running through August, 26th, experience the Dutchess County Fair Rhinebeck, NY. It is the second largest county fair in New York State and will have rides, food, animals, crafts and much more.

4. Head to the Putnam County Wine & Food Fest, on August 25th-26th. There will be arts and crafts, exhibits, and two full days of live entertainment – even for kids.

5. Philipsburgh Manor will be holding their annual CORNucopia corn festival on Labor Day weekend. Enjoy corn treats, crafts, games including corn shucking races, cooking, English country dancing, live music and more. Runs September 1st through 3rd. 

6. Cool off with a delicious and refreshing ice cream, frozen yogurt or Italian ices.   Check out these suggestions from moms in our community.
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7. Pick your own fruit. Our moms suggest Fishkill Farms in Hopewell Junction, Lawrence Farms Orchards in Newburgh or Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown Heights.

​8. Visit a Farmer's Market!  More details on our Community Calendar.

9. Head to Rye Playland to swim in the pool or beach (Oakland Beach), enjoy the rides or take a walk on the boardwalk. Don't miss the fireworks every Friday night!

10. Spend the day at a water park. Check out SplashDown Beach in Fishkill. Little ones will love Shipwreck Lagoon and the Lazy River.

11. For a free water and play adventure go to Pierson Park in Tarrytown. It has beautiful river views, a spray park and playground. Finish the excursion with coffee or ice cream at Lighthouse Ice Cream and Coffee.

12. Have fun in the sun at Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck. This local favorite is a beach, playground and spray park. 

13. If you have a Westchester County Parks Pass you can have a swim day at Willson’s Waves Park, Tibbetts Brook Park or Saxon Woods Park. Check out details in our Summer Bucket List.

14. Enjoy river views, a spray park and playground with train structures at Louis Engel Waterfront Park in Ossining.

15. Swim, fish, boat, play and picnic at Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Yorktown Heights.

16. Beach it in Westchester at Canopus Lake in Carmel, Croton Point Beach in Croton-on-Hudson, Glen Island Beach in  New Rochelle.

17. Spend a day at Bear Mountain State Park in Rockland County. Take a ride on the carousel, enjoy a nature walk, visit the free zoo, take a ride on a paddle boat or canoe, swim in the pool, picnic and enjoy some delicious ice cream. 

18. Also in Rockland County, enjoy a beautiful day swimming and hiking at Rockland Lake State Park.

19. Take a swim, build sandcastles and enjoy the view at Lake Welch in Harriman State Park.

20. Head to Connecticut for a beach day. Greenwich Point- Tod’s Point is beautiful and close. Make  sure you purchase an entry pass on a weekday in advance. 

21. Enjoy big ocean waves and soft sand at the beaches in Long Island. Walk the boardwalk, play in the sand, swim or have fun on the playground at Long Beach. Jones Beach in Wantagh is another great option. If you have very small children you can go to Zack's Bay located at Field 5 where the water is calm. Robert Moses State Park is a favorite among our moms. If you are feeling adventurous you can take a ferry ride out to Fire Island for a laid back beach day.  

22. Take a day trip to Asbury Park, NJ. Head to the beach for sun and sand, walk the boardwalk, cool off at the Asbury Splash Park, take a ride on a pedal boat on Wesley Lake or play miniature golf at Asbury Eighteen.

23. Play a round of mini golf at Red Rooster Drive-In in Brewster, Saxon Woods Park in White Plains or Rye Playland.

24. Head to a park or playground. Our moms like Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, Sagamore Playground in Bronxville, Croton Gorge Park in Cortlandt, ​Gedney Park in Chappaqua, Law Memorial Park in Briarcliff, Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill and Bruce Park Playground in Greenwich, CT.

25. Take part in RiverRiders free community paddling at JFK Marina and Park in northern Yonkers.

26. For your cinematic pleasure, head to Movies on the Sand - "Up" at Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck on August 17th.

27. Celebrate National Honeybee Day at Honeybee Open Hive on August 19th at the Stamford Nature Center. Discover the buzz through hive demos (weather permitting) and a honey bee scavenger hunt in our Farm Market. 

28. Celebrate the Jewish culture at the Jewish Heritage Celebration at Kensico Dam Plaza on August 19th.

29. For a full day animal adventure head to the Bronx Zoo. Check out Nature Trek a Total Experience exhibit where kids can get a giraffe's-eye view as they explore bridges, walkways, and tunnels. They can also get their hands dirty in the nature play zone. Or try the Treetop Adventure, where you can climb, swing, and slide through obstacle courses in the trees.

30. Take your child for a hike at Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining. Enjoy a beautiful walk around the lake, look at the suspension bridge, watch the birds and see some live and taxidermy animals at the visitor center. 

31. Our moms love Muscoot Farm in Katonah! It's totally free and there are so many farm animals to see.

32. Head to a nature center to meet the animals and enjoy outdoor play. Our moms recommend Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale, Rye Nature Center in Rye, Sheldrake Nature Center in Larchmont and Stamford Museum & Nature Center. Check their websites for upcoming workshops and events.

33. Visit Westmoreland Sanctuary in Mount Kisco, a nature museum and wildlife preserve with hiking trails. 

34. Visit the animals, have a bite to eat and relax in the beautiful farmland at Stone Barns in Pocanito Hills. Admission is free. On weekends there are a variety of seasonal, hands-on activities and drop-in tours but you need to purchase tickets in advance. Heads up, get your tickets now for Harvest Fest October 7th, which is typically sold out far in advance.

35. Visit beautiful Untermeyer Gardens in Yonkers.

​36. Take your children to the Botanical Gardens. In August you can drop-in for nature exploration or gardening activities.

37. Jump or Bounce! Our moms suggest Bounce U in Elmsford, Rockin Jump in Yonkers or Mount Kisco, Sky Zone in New Rochelle or Bounce! in Valley Cottage. Check bounce times and age restrictions and book in advance. 

38. Drop in and play! Our moms love the Play Place in Elmsford, Billy Beez at the Palisades Mall in West Nyack and Kids U in Port Chester and Pleasantville. 
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39. Get building at Legoland in Yonkers! Experience rides, a movie, play structure and more. Purchase tickets in advance.

40. Try indoor skydiving at iFly Westchester.

41. Moms of preschoolers: take a free trial class at a play gym, art studio or music school. Schedule in advance. You can view a list of places to consider in our directory, select the category you like.

42. Go to the movies. Have a meal served to your seat at Alamo Drafthouse in Yonkers or iPic in Dobbs Ferry.

43. Head to your local library to play, read books or enjoy an event. Check your library's website for dates and times.

44. Take your little one to story time at Barnes and Noble White Plains or Yonkers, the Voracious Reader in Larchmont, Scattered Books in Chappaqua or Pottery Barn Kids in White Plains.

45. Design your own pottery or ceramics. Our moms suggest Creative Corner or Plaster Palace Pottery in Larchmont, Fun Craft in Scarsdale, A Maze In Pottery in Briarcliff or Made in Mamaroneck.

46. Do some back to school shopping. Make a day trip to Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets in Central Valley, NY or stay local at the City Center, Cross County, Ridge Hill or the Westchester. Support local by shopping at some of Westchester's children's boutiques. Try Denny's in Scarsdale, Epstein's in Tuckahoe, & James in Katonah, Lester's in Rye Brook and Wyatt Lily in Scarsdale. Know of any others you recommend?

47. Play, imagine and explore at the Westchester Children's Museum. Now air conditioned! Check out these highlights.

48. Venture up to Norwalk, CT to the Stepping Stones Museum for Children. Bonus, the Devon's Place playground nextdoor is perfect to enjoy before or after your visit. You can even cool off in a small splash pad there.

49. Explore sea life at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk. While the exhibits will keep your kids busy, there is also a play space upstairs for babies and toddlers as well as an IMAX Theatre. 

50. The New York Hall of Science in Queens is a fantastic way to spend the day and is closer than you think. There is a play room for young children, hundreds of exhibits, demonstrations and activities, a 3D theatre, a mini golf course and more. Check their website to sign up for events.

51. The Children's Museum of Manhattan is another great place for little hands to learn and explore.

52. Fill an entire day at the Long Island Children's Museum. It is much larger than other children's museums in the area and is sure to entertain kids of all ages.

53. See the stars at the Hudson River Museum planetarium on Saturdays and Sundays. While you are there, check out the exhibits, learn about the Hudson River, play in the Early Explorers play area or take part in an art or science project. ​

54. Meet Elmo, Cookie Monster and all your favorite characters at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA. Have lunch with the characters, watch a parade, go on the rides, walk down Sesame Street and get wet in the water park!

55. Enjoy rides, water fun and characters at the Land of Make Believe in Hope ,NJ.

56. Take a trip to Lancaster, PA. Our moms suggest going to Dutch Wonderland, Kitchen Kettle Village, Miller's Smorgasbord, the Turkey Hill Experience and taking a pretzel factory tour.

57. Meet Thomas the Train at Stratsburg Rail Road August 27th through September 4th in Ronks, PA.

58. Indulge in chocolate and rides at Hershey Park in Hershey, PA.

59. Take a trip to Mystic, CT. Our moms suggest visiting The Dinosaur Place, Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport and the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Ride.   

60. Encounter exotic and wild animals at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax, PA.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

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If the answer is yes, you are not alone. The reported cases of sleep deprivation or insomnia are growing to epic proportions nationwide. More than 60 million Americans suffer from poor sleep quality, and more than 40 million meet the diagnostic criteria for sleep disorders. Americans are sleeping less and consequently are putting their health at risk. 

Patients who toss and turn all night will initially complain of lack of energy, irritability, and loss of appetite. Left untreated, inadequate sleep carries with it both short- and long-term consequences including obesity, diabetes, anxiety, stroke or cardiac arrest. 

Why are we losing so much sleep? Insomnia could be caused by a medical problem, a side-effect of medicine, psychiatric illness, or lifestyle. Everything from what we eat what we drink, how often we are on “screen time” to our hectic work schedules can contribute to how well or how poorly we sleep. 

If you believe you are suffering from a sleep disorder, insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome, there are things you can do about it. 

“We now have comprehensive Sleep Centers in both Andrus and Dobbs Ferry” says Rajendra Rampersaud, MD, Pulmonologist.

To meet the growing incidence of sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, St. John’s Riverside Hospital now has Sleep Diagnostic Centers available at both Dobbs Ferry and Andrus Pavilions. Both locations offer a convenient, quiet setting that was created to help restore the connection between a well-rested body and a healthy body. 

Having sleep centers in both our pavilions is another way we strive to help patients in their hometowns. St. John’s Riverside Hospital is helping people sleep better and feel better, one wink at a time. For more information or to schedule a consultation with a sleep physician call (914) 964-4337.

​To schedule a sleep study at the Sleep Diagnostic Center call (914) 559-1010.

Carnival season is in full swing and there is a lot for Westchester County families to do this summer just beyond Westchester County! Music, rides, animals, fireworks, culture and more can be enjoyed at neighboring county fairs and festivals. Plan ahead because some of these events are about an hour or more away.  Don't forget to check the weather as dates are subject to change. Enjoy!

For a full listing of upcoming events, or to add one of your own, visit our free  Community Calendar.

Hudson Valley Balloon Festival
Fri July 6th - Sun 8th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Ave, Rhinebeck, NY

Orange County Fair
Thu Jul 12th - Sat 21st
Orange County Fairgrounds, 239 Wisner Avenue Middletown, NY

Putnam County Fair
Fri Jul 27th - Sun 29th
Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Gipsy Trail Rd, Carmel, NY

New York Renaissance Faire
Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday, August 4th thru September 30th 
600 NY-17A, Tuxedo Park, NY

Dutchess County Fair
Tue Aug 21st - Sun 26th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Ave, Rhinebeck, NY

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As a pioneer in single incision hernia surgeries and co-founder of the only Minimally Invasive Center in Westchester, Dr. Har Chi Lau has performed more minimally invasive hernias than any other surgeon in Westchester County. We are proud that he practices at St. John’s Riverside Hospital. Dr. Har Chi Lau opened the first Hernia Center in Westchester just over two years ago now and people have come as far as California to be treated there. 
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A Board-Certified Surgeon with expertise in Minimally Invasive (MI) surgery, Dr. Lau also instructs laparoscopic surgery methods to other doctors and frequently presents on the subject nationwide. In addition, he has impressed and won the trust of a tough crowd of his colleagues who personally request Dr. Lau for their surgeries. With over 4500 surgeries already performed, it’s apparent that Dr. Lau is the first choice for patients and doctors alike. 

“Dr. Lau and his team were my first choice for my hernia operation. These guys have the expertise as well as the communication skills and personality that assured me I would be back to my old self again. They were right and I was surprised at how quickly I was able to get back to work.” - Tony Maddalo, MD Orthopedic Sports Physician for the New York Rangers.

Recent developments have changed the playing field when it comes to medical procedures, and St. John’s Riverside Hospital’s Hernia Center is on the frontline with the latest technology including the da Vinci robot and expertise to offer a new quality-of-life to all patients. Minimally Invasive surgery is how we are keeping the Westchester Community Strong. If you think you or someone you know has a hernia, call (914) 464-4DOC.
 
“It’s a very patient-centered method to performing surgery, with proven benefits and far less complications.” - MI surgeon, Har Chi Lau, MD

On Saturday, June 2, the Music Conservatory of Westchester will hold an immersive Open House for parents and their children to experience and understand the Suzuki philosophy of music education designed for young students ages 4 and up. The Open House will start at 9:30am with special musical performances from violin and cello Suzuki students on the front steps of the Conservatory, followed by open studio lessons at 11:00am, and a question and answer session at 1:00pm. 
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Students in the Conservatory’s Suzuki Program study music with the belief that “Every Child Can” encouraging every student’s innate musical talents at an early age. The Suzuki philosophy extends to all ages and abilities, and the Conservatory’s program welcomes students of violin, viola, cello, and piano.

Try the Suzuki Program during the regular school year or over the summer. This summer, the Conservatory is offering a Suzuki Beginner Special for introductory lessons for young beginner students starting at age 4 in sessions from August 6th-10th and/or August 13th-17th. 

Come learn about the unique and proven Suzuki philosophy for learning to play a musical instrument on Saturday, June 2 at 9:30am.

Give your children the best possible start with music at the current ‘Best of Westchester’ Music Conservatory of Westchester, a musical community like no other. Visit www.musicconservatory.org for more information.

Suzuki Open House and Student Performance
Saturday, June 2nd, 9:30am
Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
info@musiced.org

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Lice Free Noggins is an all-natural head lice removal service. We provide families with a safe and effective alternative to head lice treatment. Our in-home lice removal service is discreet, efficient, safe for the whole family as well as cost effective.  

Check out these top FAQs to help dispel some lice myths.

How are head lice spread?
Head lice do not jump or fly, they crawl. In most instances, head lice are spread through direct head to head contact. The transfer of a louse is quick and only takes several seconds. It is also possible to catch lice from sharing personal objects, such as hair accessories, pillows and hats, although this transfer method is less frequent. A healthy louse is clinging on to an individual's hair as this is where their home is, and will not willingly leave to go onto an inanimate object. When a louse is found on an object, it is likely in the process of dying.

What kind of hair do head lice prefer?
Having a head full of hair makes an individual susceptible to head lice. A louse will not discriminate and will happily inhabit any types of hair - curly, straight, dyed, clean or dirty.

I heard that head lice like clean hair - is that true?
It is true that head lice prefer clean hair, only for one simple reason, it is more difficult for them to transfer and cling on to hair which is oily. However, once on a head, a louse will make a home in any type of environment, as long as there is enough hair to provide warmth for their nits to incubate.

Can I still have head lice if I dye my hair?
Head lice are resilient little buggers and can survive through most hair salon treatments. Having hair dyed does not make an individual resistant to head lice. However, the dye does color the nits, making them more difficult to identify visually. For those with recently dyed hair, a comb out check is always recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

Will a flat iron kill head lice?
Yes, and no. In theory, the extreme heat from the flat iron would kill live lice, if it was to come into contact with one. However, when such strong heat is applied to the head, a louse would quickly flatten against the scalp. This would prevent the iron from having direct contact with a louse, and therefore, would have no effect on eliminating head lice.

What is the best treatment for head lice?
There are no shortcuts to treating head lice. The most effective lice removal treatment involves a thorough, meticulous combing, using a professional stainless steel nit comb and a non-toxic, pesticide-free product. Over the counter medications, such as Nix and Nix, contain harmful ingredients, such as permethrin, which are not only ineffective due to lice developing a resistance to the medication, but also do not kill nits (eggs). As a matter of fact, there is no product on the market which is strong enough (toxic enough) to penetrate through the shell of a nit. If not properly combed out, the remaining nits start to hatch shortly after and the infestation continues.  This process leaves parents frustrated and confused and is usually when a lice professional gets called in.  Our lice removal process guarantees to leave no nits behind. Our comb out process removes each and every viable nit and louse.

Can I have head lice if I don’t itch?
Absolutely! One of the most common assumptions which I hear is that, if an individual does not itch, then they surely do not have head lice. This is incorrect. Feeling itchy is an allergic reaction to the saliva of a louse. Although most people do develop a sensitivity to their saliva, for some, it may take as long as 4-6 weeks before a reaction occurs while for others, it may never develop. If a household member is diagnosed with head lice, it is important to check the rest of the individuals who reside in the same home, regardless of whether they itch or not. By skipping this step, the likelihood of spreading lice within the household members remains.
 
Our Process
Upon arrival, our highly trained lice experts would carefully diagnose head lice and/or nits (eggs), apply our natural, pesticide-free lice removal treatment and begin a meticulous elimination process.  After removing all viable lice and nits, our staff would educate you and your family on how to delouse the home and prevent a future re-infestation. Our lice team are dedicated to taking the stress out of head lice removal and are known for making the process fun for kids. We guarantee, after just one treatment provided by our expert lice team, there will be no lice or nits left behind.


Why spend hours at a lice salon waiting for your turn?  Our in-home lice treatment option provides an opportunity to continue with regular home activities after being checked and/ or treated.  We charge an affordable flat rate based on length of hair. Many lice removal services charge by the hour, which can add up rather quickly. We never charge hidden fees - no travel fees, no holiday fees, no evening or weekend fees. We have successfully treated thousands of families in New York City and are now offering our lice removal services in Westchester.

Lice Free Noggins
Professional In Home Head Lice Removal Services
914-218-6390

If you haven’t secured your plans for summer camp yet, it’s time to get them buttoned up! This summer, families near Greenwich, CT and Bronx, NY have six award-winning ESF camps to choose from, with over 60 activities for every age and interest!
 
ESF Camps is pleased to offer Westchester NY Moms readers an opportunity to win a week of ESF Camp at one of their premier campuses.  Read on to learn more about ESF Camps and enter below for your chance to win!

ESF is hosting tours by appointment. RSVP today!

• Tuesday, May 15th at Riverdale Country School – RSVP here Can’t join us on May 15th? Call 718-432-1013 to schedule a personal tour.
• Tuesday, May 22nd at Greenwich Academy – RSVP here Can’t join us on May 22nd? Call 203-869-4444 to schedule a personal tour.

What do your kids want out of summer camp?
Michael Rouse, the co-founder and Executive Director of ESF Camps, and his staff know — because they’re always looking for something new and interesting for today’s kids and teens.  

“We’re really trying to create programs that are cutting-edge for children — the best on the planet,”Rouse said. “We do that with every single program we offer, in every single age group.”

Every year, there’s a new program, or a slightly different take on a tried-and-true idea. That’s how ESF has come to offer everything from day camp for 4-year-olds to business camps for teens (with technology, science, and the arts in between).

Mindful of the trust parents put in the camps, ESF has made a huge commitment to safety. The all-adult staff is trained every year on the latest skills and information. Have a child with a food allergy? They’re welcome at ESF: allergists often recommend the camps, which are welcoming and accommodating.

Even the car line is down to a science. “We’ve been doing this for 35 years, and we try to raise the bar every year,” Rouse said.
 
Not only are they efficient, they are diverse in their approach to providing different opportunities depending on their age group. Investing in children over time is part of their secret to raising leaders.
 
Note: Programs vary by ESF Camp location.

Mini Camp (Preschool) and Day Camp (Rising Pre-K– 3rd Grade)
These traditional camps are perfect for the youngest campers, starting at age 3 and running through third grade. It’s summer camp the way you remember it: swimming, arts & crafts, sports, science, camp performances, and action-packed, non-stop fun.

This camp is the foundation for your child’s future at ESF Camps. It’s here that kids begin to practice the 8 ESF Virtues, including the value of kindness, teamwork and community — and the joy that comes with it.

“At age 4, they begin to be the leader of their Tribe,” Rouse said. “In addition to having the time of their lives, they are discovering new passions and learning life skills that they will bring to the classroom in the next school year.”

Multi-Sport Camp (Rising 1st – 9th Grade)
It’s so common these days for kids to focus in on a sport at an early age, but research shows that can lead to overuse injuries and burnout. Children who play more than one sport stay healthier, physically and mentally.

ESF’s Multi-Sport camps give kids the chance to learn and play 10 sports weekly, and two to three each day. That means they can try a new sport — and, maybe, discover they love it. From baseball and basketball to lacrosse and soccer, multi-sport camp provides rising first through ninth graders with top-notch instruction and skill development. Campers are grouped by rising grade levels into divisions called Conferences. They discover their inner athlete through game play, instructional clinics, tournaments, and more.

The coaches use sports to keep building character, including fostering trustworthiness, effort, accountability, leadership, and teamwork.
​

Senior Camp (Rising 4st – 10th Grade)
This camp, for rising fourth through 10th graders, is all about what ESF calls “True Life Adventures.” Senior Camp broadens the horizons of the older camper. It’s what kids this age are looking for — and need as they become more and more independent. From comic book design to digital photography and building a carnival from the ground up, these campers continue to learn teamwork, positivity and grit, and to embrace the community around them.

Campers work through team challenges, but keep things light with dance parties and daily swimming. Senior camp has leadership and service opportunities, but still lets kids play gaga, try an American Ninja Warrior course, and cheer their friends through camp competitions.
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Specialty Major Camps (Rising K-9th Grade)
These specialty camps let kids pick a “major” and then drill down into a subject, and the range is enormous.

Science camps include exclusive partnerships with the Franklin Institute. Technology camps feature NEW and enhanced curriculum and program offerings uniquely designed through a new partnership with BSD (Build Something Different). Programs give campers a chance to dig into 3D game design, coding, and robotics, engineering and more!
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ESF’s Junior Business Academy, which has an exclusive partnership with the Jack Welch Management Institute, gives campers the opportunity to create their own business in just one week! For rising fifth through eighth graders, business camp helps build the entrepreneurial spirit, and further cements the values of respect, resilience, and trustworthiness by providing campers with a tool belt to be successful.

Tennis Camp (Rising 1st– 10th Grade)
This is how ESF got its start, way back in 1982, and it’s still a cornerstone today. Budding players — whether they’re beginners or experts — get high-quality instruction, practice, and match play. Kids can swim daily if they want, and play “Grand Slam” tournaments weekly!

Ready to register, or want to know more? Get to know ESF Camps’ staff and programs in person at their open house.

ESF is hosting open houses with tour sessions:

• Saturday April 21st  at Greenwich Academy - Sessions 1:00pm, 2:15pm and 3:30pm
• Sunday April 22nd at Riverdale Country School - Sessions 1:00pm, 2:15pm and 3:30pm

 
Parents and children are welcome to meet with counselors and learn more about ESF’s exciting summer offering. RSVPs are strongly encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome!  You can also visit ESF’s website and use our amazing program finder to discover the perfect fit for your child, or call us at 800-529-CAMP (2267). 
 
WIN IT: We’re giving away a week of ESF Camps at Greenwich Academy or Riverdale Country School to one lucky winner! To enter, complete the form below and comment on this post with your preferred ESF Camps program before 4 pm on Friday, May 4th We’ll pick a winner at random.

​NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

1. PROMOTION PERIOD. Promotion begins from April 13, 2018, 8:00 AM (EST) (“Promotion Period”). All entries must be received by May 4, 2018, 5:00 PM (EST) to be eligible for that day’s drawing.
2. HOW TO ENTER: To enter, complete the form above and comment on this article with your preferred ESF Camps program. No purchase necessary.
3. ELIGIBILITY: Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Employees of Sponsor, its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising, and promotion agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each are not eligible to participate.
4. WINNER SELECTION: One winner will be drawn from all entries received during the announced Promotional Period using a randomized computer numerical system, random.org, from among all eligible entries received during the Giveaway. Winners will be emailed directly.
5. WINNER NOTIFICATION AND RESPONSE: The selected winner will be contacted via email at the conclusion of the Promotional Period. A response is required within 6 hours. If no response is received in that time, the selected winner will forfeit their prize and another winner will be selected at random from the list of eligible participants and notified. Subsequently selected winners will also have a 6 hours period to respond. By submitting your email address to this giveaway you agree that ESF Camps may email you with regards to this giveaway and their summer programs.
6. PRIZE APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUE: One week of ESF Camps at Greenwich Academy or Riverdale Country School, valued at approximately $685-$845 (Does not include Club OT or lunch program. Does not include Optional Bus Transportation at Riverdale Country School).
7. TAXES. All federal, state and/or local income and other taxes, if any, are the winner’s sole responsibility.
8. ODDS OF WINNING. The odds of winning this promotion depend on the number of eligible entries.
9. DELIVERY. Winner will be able to claim their prize through direct contact with ESF Camp’s representatives.

 
Photographs courtesy of ESF Camps.

Sponsored Post

Love My Shoes is a new and upcoming shoe boutique located in the heart of Bronxville, NY.  Their styles feature trends for women, comfort and fit for guys and reliable shoes for kids.  The store is freshly remodeled with over 2,000 square feet of high end touches without the high end price tag on the styles.  

The Love My Shoes owners has family history in the business, the Great Grandfather of the founder started as a cobbler which then evolved into a shoe store and sparked the interest of the owners today.  

The passion for name brand shoes with style and comfort holds true at Love My Shoes.  They only sell top brands and trends that keep you coming back.

Customer service is also priority at Love My Shoes, each customer is treated like family.  They ensure that finding the perfect shoe with the best fit is a fun and easy shopping experience.  They carry a great range of sizes and widths that you cannot find at other stores.  Their buyers watch trends closely to make sure you get what is hot!

Love My Shoes carries a long list of brands including Sorel, Toms, March Fisher, Dansko, Frye, Dolce Vita, Ugg, North Face, Cole Haan, Johnstone & Murphy, Steve Madden, Timberland, Merrell, Birkenstock, Sam Edelman, Asics, Hunter and many more.  The price points range from $50-$350+.

Love My Shoes is a shoe store for the entire family located at 65 Pondfield Road, Bronxville, NY.  Stop in today and see a great selection of shoes and accessories and say hello to the friend staff. Website is  www.lovemyshoesco.com

Sponsored Post

Why is it that we moms put ourselves last? I am including myself in this category. Whether it’s about our health, careers, friendships – we put kids, errands, even laundry ahead of taking a moment to breathe and focus on ourselves.  Yes, even laundry! Makes me feel like that proverbial hamster on a wheel.

When I had my first son, Jonah, my mom came to stay with us, which was a godsend. One of the first pieces of advice she shared was to feed yourself first before you feed the baby. You need sustenance, strength, energy, and clarity before you can offer it to anyone else. Common sense, but I needed this pointed out to me.

I followed her advice during this phase and promptly set it aside, jumped on the hamster wheel, and here we are today. I know it’s not just me. I see it in my circle of friends and now in my work with the many talented women I meet. Women who took a career break to nurture others – their children, their aging parents, their spouses etc. The thought of nurturing yourself and your dreams is put on the back burner. Until one day, when you set that intention to make a change and take one small step.  This could mean signing up for a yoga class or having a coffee date with a friend every Friday, or even scheduling 30 minutes with yourself to read. When it comes to your career, for many in our community, the one small step was coming to a Vermilion event or telling a friend that they want to get back to a career.

So, bringing this full circle for you and the next chapter of your career. What do you want in the next chapter of your career? Is it re-entering the paid workforce? Is it starting a business? Or perhaps, making a career change. Have you given it some thought and attention? And what have you one to achieve this goal?

As I tell my kids, you don’t have to have all the answers. But, it all starts with curiosity and setting an intention for yourself. Next? Surround yourself will people that will support your goals. Finally, take one small step, learn from it, and repeat.

Wherever you are in your journey, from just thinking about what to do, to career discovery or conducting an active job search – join us at the Art of Career Re-Entry Conference on March 29. We have designed a day of inspiration AND action just for you. Need more motivation? See all details here.

Remember, no one can do this for you, but you. I think it’s time to set the hamster free.

RSVP Here & Use this Special PROMO CODE to save 50% off: https://bit.ly/2IGvNkY

​Anju Kurian is a Westchester resident, former stay at home mom, and social entrepreneur. She, along with Anne-Barbara Lemmens co-founded Vermilion Talent based on their experiences in re-entering the workforce after a career break. Vermilion leads women to the next chapter of their career with confidence, inspiration, and happiness. Vermilion offers compelling content, coaching, community, and connections with companies.

Visit us at www.vermiliontalent.com
Curious about how we do what we do? Watch our video!