Have you filled a bucket today? - Chester County Intermediate Unit

KIDS
Story on Page 5
HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES — PGS. 23-24
NOVEMBER 2011
FREE!
A monthly newspaper — Sponsored by The Chester County Intermediate Unit and Chester County’s public schools
‘Have you filled
a bucket today?’
By GABRIELLE CLEMENTS
Matt Yeldell and Zachary Yeldell pose outside of the Kennett Middle School
with Hip-Hop, the Sixers mascot, a Hare Raiser, and two Sixers dancers.
Brothers rap Sixer fanaticism
Kennett Middle School seventh
grader Matt Yeldell and his brother
Zachary Yeldell, a Kennett High School
freshman, have always considered
themselves big Sixers fans.
Now, they’ve proven it. The brothers
recently were named the winners of the
“Sixers Back-to-School Video Contest,”
proving that they are the biggest Sixers
fans in the Delaware Valley.
“I feel very honored to win this
award,” said Matt. “It is so exciting to
get to meet Hip-Hop and get to ride to
school in the Sixers’ van.”
In winning the contest, the brothers
created a short video in which the two,
wearing their best Sixers’ gear,
performed an original rap song
explaining why they should be chosen
as the biggest Sixers' fans.
“My brother and I had a lot of fun
making the video,” Matt said. “And, we
were both so excited to win.”
Two Sixers Dancers and one of team
mascot Hip-Hop’s Hare Raisers recently
greeted the boys at their home and
drove them to school in Hip-Hop’s van.
Once at Kennett Middle School, Matt
and Zach had the opportunity to shoot
some hoops in the gym with Hip-Hop
and the Hare Raiser.
Matt’s seventh grade classmates also
received breakfast items provided by
McDonald’s Restaurants.
“Have you filled a bucket today?”
This is the question being asked daily at
French Creek Elementary School, Owen J.
Roberts. Staff and students are striving to
increase awareness and address the school
culture by intentionally seeking to be
“bucket fillers” rather than “bucket
dippers.”
“What is that?” you ask.
Carol McCloud wrote a wonderful
book, “Have You Filled a Bucket Today,”
which uses the image of a bucket to
explain our basic human need for positive
relationships.
She states, “All day long, everyone in
the whole wide world is carrying around
an invisible bucket.”
The basic premise of the story is that
each of us carries an invisible bucket
around that holds our good thoughts and
feelings. We can fill someone’s bucket by
doing kind things or making them feel
special. This is “bucket filling.” In turn,
we can dip into someone’s bucket when
we say or do mean things or make them
feel bad. This is “bucket dipping.”
McCloud’s story was shared with
students in grades 1-through-6 in the
“welcome assembly” on the first day of
school and in individual kindergarten
classrooms later in the week. Students
have been challenged to ask themselves,
“Have I filled a bucket today?” every day
when they leave French Creek and to think
of ways that they bring joy and happiness
to those around them.
Each classroom at French Creek has
been given a bucket and pom-poms while
adults in the building are on the lookout
for “bucket filling” behavior. If they see
someone being a “bucket filler,” they can
place a pom-pom in the bucket. At the end
of the week, the contents of the small
buckets are dumped into a large bucket in
the lobby. The goal is to fill the bucket
with kindness.
Teachers, specialists and administrative
staff are participating in this program to
honor the positive efforts of the students
while modeling positive relationships
through their daily interactions at school.
Students at French Creek have been
enjoying a great school year and teachers
and staff hope that this program will help
them to become self-respecting and
socially conscious decision makers.
So, here’s the challenge: Have you
filled a bucket today? If not, take some
time to notice the people around you and
extend some acts of kindness to them as a
step towards becoming a bucket filler.
(Gabrielle Clements is a school
counselor at the French Creek Elementary
School, Owen J. Roberts.)
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MARTIAL ARTS
KIDS 2
NOVEMBER 2011
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DOWNINGTOWN
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 3
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A PARENT’S VIEW
KIDS 4
A simple ‘thank you’ can
come around full circle
By LISA MARIE CRANE
Thank you for reading these columns!
Thank you for reading this very fine
newspaper!
Thank you for caring about your
children and parents and others!
Ah, now I feel much better. Saying
thank you, even to unknown friends, lifts
my spirits.
The same thing happened to John
Kralik, author of “365 Thank Yous: The
Year a Simple Act of Gratitude Changed
My Life.” Kralik was at a low point in
his life. His law firm was disintegrating.
After two divorces, his latest girlfriend
had split.
His relationship with his adult
children was distant at best, and he felt
he had nothing to offer his youngest
daughter. Then, he received a lovely
thank you note for a Christmas present,
and he had a great idea: he felt good
when he got a note, so why not write a
few himself?
The first notes were thanks for gifts
he had received. Kralik’s note prompted
his adult son to give him a call. They
had lunch and talked as they had never
done before. Kralik felt great. He
wondered how he could keep this feeling
going. He sat down and wrote a few
more notes.
He wrote to a former teacher who had
been a mentor. He thanked his barista at
his favorite coffee shop. He wrote notes
to old friends and new, store clerks and
doormen and just about anyone in his
life who had given him a moment of
kindness. He made a New Year’s
resolution to write one thank you note a
day for a whole year.
Saying thank you changed Kralik’s
life perspective: “The more I wrote
thank you notes, the more I found to be
thankful for.”
He began to look for people and acts
for which to be grateful. His attitude
became one of gratitude. Life was not
out to get him; life was waiting to give
him. Needless to say, when Kralik’s
attitude changed, so did his life.
Eleanor Roosevelt said, “You can
often change your circumstances by
KIDS
NOVEMBER 2011
Lisa Marie
Crane is a
mother,
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.
changing your attitude.”
After a year of writing thank you
notes, Kralik found that his life had
improved, maybe not as dramatically as
he had hoped, but his gratitude regimen
changed him into a more positive,
hopeful person.
G.K. Chesterton, a great writer and
thinker, maintained that “gratitude is
happiness doubled by wonder.”
We all need to have an attitude of
gratitude. When thanking others, we
forget to be sorrowful, scornful or
stressed. When we open our eyes, we
open our hearts and minds and find a
wonderful world. A thankful heart is a
happy heart.
Now, we all have troubles. And, we all
have a choice. We can focus on our
troubles or we can find moments for
which to be thankful. You have 86,400
seconds given to you every day. Have
you used one to say thank you today?
Make it a habit. Here’s one more from
me. Thanks!
Only 84,396 to go!
VOLUME 20 • NUMBER 8
NOVEMBER 2011
A monthly publication of the
Chester County Intermediate Unit
and Page 1 Publishers, Inc.
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Mary Jeanne Curley
Director of Public Relations
Chester County Intermediate Unit
Dennis C. Roussey
Page 1 Publishers, Inc.
Robert H. Ludwick, Jr.
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,
Tredyffrin-Easttown, UnionvilleChadds Ford and West Chester
school districts.
Circulation: 40,000 copies
"
Reader correspondence
and editorial submissions
are welcome.
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NOVEMBER 2011
Special week
celebrates
education
The National Education Association
celebrates the 90th American Education
Week from Nov. 13-19.
Distressed that 25 percent of the
country’s World War I draftees were
illiterate and nine percent were physically
unfit, representatives of the NEA and the
American Legion met in 1919 to seek
ways to generate public support for
education.
The conventions of both organizations
subsequently adopted resolutions of
support for a national effort to raise public
awareness of the importance of education.
In 1921, the NEA Representative
Assembly in Des Moines, Iowa, called for
designation of one week each year to
spotlight education.
In its resolution, the NEA called for “an
educational week ... observed in all
communities annually for the purpose of
informing the public of the
accomplishments and needs of the public
schools and to secure the cooperation and
support of the public in meeting those
needs.”
The NEA suggests the following
American Education Week schedule:
• Monday, Nov. 14 — “Kick Off Day.”
• Tuesday, Nov. 15 — “Parents Day.”
Schools across the nation can invite
parents into the classroom to experience
firsthand what a school day is like for
their child. The initiative is designed to
spotlight the importance of parental
involvement. Ongoing research shows that
parental involvement in schools improves
student achievement, reduces absenteeism
and restores parents’ confidence in their
children’s education.
• Wednesday, Nov. 16 — “Education
Support Professional Day.” ESP Day
focuses on the importance of these school
employees, who take care of students
every day, making sure they have the tools
they need to succeed in school. Support
professionals provide invaluable services
that enable students to learn in positive,
supportive environments.
• Thursday, Nov. 17 — “Educator for a
Day.” Educator for a Day events allow
individuals from the community to serve
as an educator to get a glimpse of a day in
the life of a school employee. The visiting
educator performs the duties of the regular
educator in a normal day — teaching
class, performing lunch and corridor duty,
recess supervision, among other
responsibilities.
This initiative demonstrates to public
officials and other decisionmakers, the
successes and challenges teachers face and
underscores the need for adequate staffing,
materials, and facilities for students.
• Friday, Nov. 18 — “Substitute
Educators Day.” Substitute Educators Day
focuses on the importance of substitute
school employees. These professional
educators perform a vital function in the
maintenance and continuity of daily
education. In our public school systems,
substitutes are the educational bridges
when regular classroom educators are
absent. They are called early in the
morning, take over lessons with short
notice, and ensure that quality education is
maintained in our classrooms.
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The Children’s
Dental Office
NUTRITION
Take healthy approach
to holiday temptations
By JOANN OTT-SLENKER
Thanksgiving is the kick-off of the
holiday season. And, holiday celebrations
are rich with traditions such as mingling
with family, friends, neighbors and
professional associates.
Food is typically associated with family
gatherings and Thanksgiving is perhaps the
most abundant and food-focused of all the
holiday celebrations. Depriving ourselves
of Thanksgiving food traditions is an
option; however, it is an option that most
of us would choose against … deprivation
generally is not an effective method of
healthy eating and making healthy choices.
In fact, many times, we end up eating
more of the foods that we try to avoid.
Instead, this Thanksgiving, try to
moderate. Allow you and your family the
foods you love but keep a couple of
guidelines in mind:
• Serve smaller amounts of foods higher
in calories and fat (such as mashed
potatoes, gravy, sweet potato casserole,
filling or stuffing).
• Eat slowly — make the meal last
longer. It takes close to 20 minutes for our
digestive system to signal the brain with
the amount that you have eaten. Slow
down and you will eat less and avoid that
overly full, uncomfortable feeling that is
synonymous with Thanksgiving.
• Divide your dinner plate in half. Fill
half with high-calorie choices and fill the
other half with vegetables … but not the
vegetables in cream sauce or gravy …
they go on the high-calorie side. Some
seasonal ideas for the vegetable or lesscalorie dense side of your plate include
peas, carrots, broccoli, applesauce,
cranberries, corn and a baked potato or
baked sweet potato instead of mashed
potatoes. Start eating the vegetable side of
your plate before you dive into the higher
calorie foods.
• Do not indulge in second helpings.
Enjoy the foods special to you, but reduce
the portions you serve and eat. You will
have the enjoyment of the foods you like
and consume fewer calories and fat.
• Take the children (and the dog) for a
walk after dinner. Despite the approaching
winter temperatures, a walk will aid in
digestion and burn calories. The walk will
help you feel more energetic and
rejuvenated after a filling meal.
Here’s one more idea — engage your
children in a Thanksgiving craft which will
help shift the focus from food to fun
activity. Your children and you can create a
Thanksgiving scavenger hunt. Check out
Family Fun’s scavenger hunt at
http://familyfun.go.com/printables/
thanksgiving-scavenger-hunt-793725/.
Also, check out the turkey place card
holders at: http://a.dolimg.com/family
fun/assets/cms/large-files/pdfs/
Windsor Christian Preschool
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November 10th & 11th from 9:30 to 11:00 AM
Loretta J. Healy, DDS
Take a tour of our facilities and observe a class in session.
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479 Thomas Jones Way, Suite 400
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• 610-524-9085 •
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213 Little Conestoga Rd, Uwchland, PA 19480
Preschool- 610-458-0339 • www.windsorcp.org
Kindergarten- 610-458-7177 • www.windsorca.org
“Every Child is Special. Their Dental
Care Should Be Special Too!”
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6
We’ve had success working
with children who have:
• ADD/ADHD • Allergies
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• Scoliosis
• Seizure Disorders/Epilepsy
• Sleep problems • Sports Injuries
• Stomach Problems
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NOVEMBER 2011
printables/1008b_turkey_place_card.pdf.
And, remember to set your goals and
guidelines before the celebrations begin.
You will be more successful if you have
articulated what you are trying to achieve.
Enjoy happy, healthy holidays!
(JoAnn Ott-Slenker, a graduate student
at Immaculata University, 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,
For more information, call 610-344-6240.)
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PHOENIXVILLE
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 7
Students make empty
bowls for fund-raiser
By SANDY CLAUS
There is something very special about
watching an artist at work with clay,
taking a non-descript blob and slowly
molding and shaping and smoothing it
into something of beauty.
When the artist is only 10 years old and
creating a bowl to raise money in the
battle against hunger, it takes on a whole
new dimension.
Fourth and fifth grade students at
Barkley and Schuylkill elementary
schools, Phoenixville, recently made
bowls to be used at the Nov. 4 “Empty
Bowls” dinner to raise funds for the food
bank at Phoenixville Area Community
Services.
“Empty Bowls,” an international
grassroots effort to fight hunger, was
created by The Imagine Render Group,
Burnsville N.C. The basic premise is
simple: potters and other craftspeople,
educators and others work with the
community to create handcrafted bowls.
Guests are invited to a simple meal of
soup and bread. In exchange for a cash
donation, guests are urged to keep their
bowls as a reminder of all the empty
bowls in the world. The money raised is
donated to an organization working to end
hunger and food insecurity.
Events now take place across the
United States and in at least a dozen other
countries. Many millions of dollars have
been raised and donated to hunger-fighting
organizations.
Phoenixville art teachers Karen Ewerth
(Barkley) and Beth Lees (Schuylkill) said
it was important for the students to have
the opportunity to put their creative talents
to work for a good cause. Students were
allowed to make two bowls — one to give
away and one to keep, if they chose.
Many planned to donate both bowls,
one student saying, “It’s fun making them
(the bowls) and we want to help as much
as we can.”
Several students expressed excitement
knowing “people are going to buy our
bowls.” Knowing the money raised would
help others in the Phoenixville community
was a key motivating factor for both
teachers in initiating the program with
their students.
Phoenixville has held an event for the
past five years, with last year’s dinner
raising nearly $11,000. In addition to the
students, professional artists and
community members will create bowls for
the dinner.
Those attending will choose their bowl,
and take it home with them as a reminder
there are people in their own community
who are often hungry. And, “Empty
Bowls,” Phoenixville Area Community
Services and Phoenixville fourth and fifth
grade students are working hard to reverse
that trend.
•
A Barkley Elementary School student is hard at work creating an ‘Empty Bowl’ for a
fund-raiser dinner in Phoenixville.
Phoenixville Area Middle School. State
Rep. Warren Kampf of Paoli (R-157)
recently spent the day with the students
and staff at Phoenixville Area Middle
School.
Kampf started the day with an
interview on the student-run radio station
WPHX, then toured the construction site
for the new middle school, visited in
numerous classrooms, had lunch with
student leaders and concluded with an
assembly for eighth graders.
(Sandy Claus is the community
relations coordinator for the Phoenixville
Area School District.)
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4977 North Twin Valley Road, Elverson, PA 19520
Conveniently located next to Twin Valley Schools and Walmart
VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.drjeffreyleiss.com
BOOKS
KIDS 8
SOLICITORS’ SALUTE TO EDUCATION
NOVEMBER 2011
Chill of November good
time to curl up and read
By JOANNE R. FRITZ
When the chill of a November
evening settles in, curl up with a good
read.
While you wait for Jeff Kinney’s
newest “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” book,
“Cabin Fever,” to arrive on Nov. 15
(Abrams, $13.95), choose one of these
exciting books to help pass the time.
Picture books, Preschool to Grade 2
“Gobble, Gobble,” written and
illustrated by Cathryn Falwell (Dawn
Publications, $8.95).
One spring day, Jenny sees a flock of
wild turkeys in her backyard. She
watches them all year long, throughout
the seasons, from spring to winter,
observing details like where the turkeys
roost at night (up in the trees) and how
the hens make shallow nests in the grass.
Written in simple rhyming couplets,
and illustrated with a colorful mix of
torn-paper collage and block prints, this
is a charming read-aloud for young
children.
Jenny’s Journal, at the back of the
book, includes information on turkeys,
fun art activities, and puzzles.
Young readers, Grades 2 through 4
“Invisible Inkling,” written by Emily
Jenkins and illustrated by Harry Bliss
YOU HAVE SEARCHED FOR THE RIGHT PEDIATRICIAN.
NOW IT IS TIME TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT
PEDIATRIC DENTIST.
Did you know that a child should have
his/her first visit with a pediatric dentist by
one year of age? As a specialist trained to
care for infants, children and adolescents,
Dr. Loughlin can provide the special
attention they deserve and make their dental
visits enjoyable and educational
experiences.
End of the first
marking period blues?
Math tutor K-12
(Algebra I specialty)
Improve study skills
Improve organization
Improve achievement
Linda Romanelli
30 years experience
610-383-1321
Carolyn A. Loughlin, D.D.S.
(Balzer & Bray/Harper, $14.99).
Could your best friend be invisible?
When Hank Wolowitz finds an invisible
bandapat named Inkling in his apartment
building, life takes an unexpected turn.
Hank’s family owns an ice cream shop in
Brooklyn called The Big Round
Pumpkin. Inkling loves to eat squash, so
he arrives at The Big Pumpkin
expecting, well, pumpkins.
Harry saves Inkling from a ferocious
dog, and Inkling vows to return the
favor. Can Inkling help Hank solve his
biggest problem — how to stop Bruno
Gillicut from stealing his lunch?
A heartwarming and funny story, this
is the perfect chapter book for a family
read-aloud or for young readers to read
on their own.
Middle readers, Grades 4 through 8
“PIE,” written by Sarah Weeks
(Scholastic, $16.99).
This hilarious story takes place in the
made-up town of Ipswitch, Pa., in 1955.
Alice’s Aunt Polly is the prize-winning
pie baker of Ipswitch, who gives away
her pies rather than charge for them.
When Polly dies, she leaves the secret
recipe for her mouth-watering pie crust
to her beloved Lardo. And, she leaves
her cat Lardo to Alice.
What follows is a comedy of errors, as
nearly everyone in Ipswitch attempts to
be the next prize-winning pie-maker.
Someone breaks into Aunt Polly’s pie
shop and ransacks the place. Then Lardo
disappears. Can Alice and her new friend
Charlie find Lardo and solve the mystery
of who is trying to steal the secret
recipe?
You’ll eat up this warm and delicious
treat of a novel. It’s a winning mixture
of mystery, historical fiction, fun and
friendship. The book includes 14
delectable pie recipes baked by the
author while she was writing this book.
After reading “PIE,” you might want to
try baking a pie yourself.
(Joanne R. Fritz is a bookseller in the
Children’s Department at Chester
County Book & Music Company, West
Goshen Center, Paoli Pike, West Chester.
For more information, visit ccbmc.com
or call 610-696-1661)
2012 REGISTRATION OPENS DEC. 1st
Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry
Dr. Carolyn Loughlin is a
graduate of Georgetown
University, St. Christopher’s
Hospital for Children, a
member of the American
Academy of Pediatric
Dentistry and mother of three.
You and your child will instantly feel at ease in
our office, a beautifully restored Victorian home.
We at Chestnut Dental Associates provide
complete family dental care. Dr. Carl Horchos,
her husband, offers a full range of adult and
cosmetic dentistry. We are located just minutes
from the Route 30 bypass and a 15-minute drive
from the Downingtown/Exton area!
319 EAST CHESTNUT STREET, COATESVILLE, PA 19320
TELEPHONE: 610-384-2320
www.chestnutdentalassoc.com
YOU CAN REGISTER THE FOLLOWING WAYS:
1. Register online at www.wildfiresoftball.com
2. Go to our web site and download a mail-in registration form
3. Walk-in registration at Fugett MS gym 12 noon to 4 pm
January 8th through March 25th
Every year, hundreds of girls ages 5-18 participate in Wildfire softball programs.
Questions? Call Andy Bonner: 610-761-0500 or Glenn Cunningham 602-432-9647
OWEN J. ROBERTS
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 9
S.T.E.M. careers
To start off the school year, students in Lynne Ippolito’s fifth grade science
classes at French Creek Elementary School, Owen J. Roberts, celebrated and
recognized S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and math) careers. At the
completion of the activity, guest speakers Dan Barringer, an environmentalist for
the Crow’s Nest Nature Preserve, Elverson, and Stephanie Viti, R.N., shared the
highlights of their careers with the students. Students learned the education,
daily routines and expectations for their respected professional fields. Students
enjoyed the interactive presentations that both presenters shared with the
classes.
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HEALTH
KIDS 10
fall classes
We have classes in sewing,
knitting and crocheting for all ages
and experience levels. Visit our
website for more information.
NOVEMBER 2011
Now is the time to ‘Stop Diabetes’
By MICHELLE PHILLIPPY, MPH
It’s no coincidence that the rates of
diabetes in our youth are drastically
increasing at the same time childhood
obesity rates are also on the rise.
According to the Partnership for a
Healthier America, the United States is
raising a generation of children who may
live sicker, shorter lives than their parents.
But, you can help fight these odds by
adopting healthier habits as a family right
now.
According to the American Diabetes
Association, nearly 26 million children and
adults in American live with diabetes, and
another 79 million are at high risk for
developing type 2 diabetes. The disease is
taking a devastating physical, emotional
and financial toll on our country.
Yet, the ADA said, most Americans
don’t consider diabetes a serious matter,
feeling it is someone else’s problem and
responsible.
Recent numbers by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention paint a
desperate situation of where we are and
where we are headed. For instance:
• Every 17 seconds, someone is
diagnosed with diabetes.
• Diabetes kills more people each year
than breast cancer and AIDS combined.
Recent estimates project that as many as
one in three American adults will have
diabetes in 2050 unless we take steps to
“Stop Diabetes.”
November is American Diabetes Month
— the perfect time to make the decision to
eat healthier and get active as a family to
prevent chronic diseases, such as diabetes,
in your kids. One of the main risk factors
for developing Type 2 diabetes is being
overweight or obese.
In fact, Type 2 diabetes, usually
associated with older age, is being
diagnosed in children as young as 12 years
who are overweight. You can set a positive
example and show your kids how to take
care of their own health by making a few
small changes that can make a big
difference:
• Look for ways to make favorite dishes
healthier and encourage your kids to eat
low-fat, nutrient-rich foods like whole
grains, vegetables and fruits.
• Help your kids stay active every day
and add physical activity to your own daily
routine.
• Reduce sedentary time in front of the
television, computer or video games.
Doing your part to prevent diabetes
from affecting your kids is easier than you
may think. Be a role model and make
healthy choices so you can be a positive
influence in the lives of your children.
The American Diabetes Association
says that November is a time to
communicate the seriousness of diabetes
and the importance of diabetes prevention
and control. For years, the ADA has used
this month as an opportunity to raise
awareness of the disease and its serious
complications.
The group’s overall theme is “I Raise
My Hand to Stop Diabetes®.” And, each
week in November, a different focus in the
“Stop Diabetes” movement will be
featured.
• Week 1 — “Fighting for the Future,”
giving a voice to those denied their rights
because of diabetes and fighting for
diabetes funding.
• Week 2 — “Impacting Communities”
by building relationships around the
country to empower people to take control
of their health.
• Week 3 — “Celebrating Health” by
recognizing courageous people who have
overcome the obstacles of living with
diabetes and the places that have helped
them.
• Weeks 4 and 5 — “Commitment to a
Cure” by spotlighting the important
research taking place that will lead toward
an eventual cure.
For more information, visit
stopdiabetes.com, call 1-800- DIABETES,
or text “JOIN” to 69866 (standard data and
message rates apply).
(Michelle Phillippy, MPH, is the
director of healthy living for the YMCA of
the Brandywine Valley West Chester. For
more information, visit www.
ymcabwv.org.)
•
(The American Diabetes Association
contributed information for this story.)
• KEVIN • BRYN • HENRY • CLAIRE • JUSTIN • LAURA • NICHOLAS • ELIZABETH •
GROVE PRESCHOOL
It’s not too early to plan for 2012!
YOU’RE INVITED!
GROVE PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Friday, Nov. 11 from 6-7:30 p.m.
490 W. Boot Road, West Chester
www.grovechurch.org
For more information or to RSVP: Call 610-696-8107
or e-mail [email protected]
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
K
K
K
K
K
K
K
K
K
Morning and Afternoon Programs
Daily ‘Lunch & Play’ Program
Established Curriculum
Low teacher-to-student ratio
Certified Teachers
Newly Renovated Classrooms
Monthly Makin’ Music Program
Affordable Tuition
Established in 1968
STILL GROWING STRONG AFTER 40 YEARS
• JORDAN • KIMBERLY • SCOTT • COLLEEN • DAVID • GRACE • MICHAEL • EMILY •
• AMY • THOMAS • DANA • JOSEPH • JENNIFER • GARETH • MARY • WILL • MOLLY • TAYLOR • ROBERT • DEVON • STEPHEN • CAITLIN • ANTHONY •
• MEGHAN • AIDAN • EMILY • BEN • ROSE • RYAN • KATE • LUKE • SYDNEY • HUNTER • RACHEL • PATRICK • ABBY • ANDREW • VICTORIA • JAKE •
GREAT VALLEY
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 11
K.D. Markley students
observe September 11
Merit semifinalists
Nine Great Valley seniors were named as semifinalists and 12 as commended
students in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. Semifinalists included
(from left) Kartik Bhamidipati, Philip Chow, Ali Cebeci, David Addis, Arthur
Newbould, Alec Ren, Daniel Dore, Vadim Tanygin and Deepak Bhamidipati.
Commended students included Yu-Wen Chio, Madeline Corsaro, Gabrielle Getz,
Philip Hallett, Janson Jacob, Ellyn Krainhanzel, Morgan Nelson, Casey Nispel,
Margaret O’Keefe, Christopher Powers, Keegan Weiler and Steven Zelek. High
school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary
SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which serves as an initial screen
of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year. About 34,000 of the 50,000 high
scorers qualify as commended students; the remaining students qualify as
semifinalists. The semifinalists, the highest scoring entrants in their state, now
have the opportunity to advance to the finalist level and compete for 8,300
scholarships offered in the spring 2012.
“Where kids can be kids,
teens can talk,
and families can heal...”
Child, Adolescent & Family Counseling
In observance of September 11, third grade students at K.D. Markley Elementary
School, Great Valley, reflected on ‘What America Means to Me.’ Each student
was asked to record his/her ideas on a colored strip of paper. The paper strips
were then used to design an American flag that hangs in the third grade wing at
the school. Pictured (from left) are Harvey McCullum, Rhea Jain, Shrey Pandya,
Charlotte Doekes, Michael Search, Joy Oh, Josh Gonsalves and Rylan
McClellan.
GOSHEN PROFESSIONAL CENTER
1246 West Chester Pike, West Chester, PA 19382
H FREE ORTHODONTIC EXAMINATION H
610-431-7350
www.TanzilliOrtho.com
Parent Support & Education
Celebrating 20 Years of Helping Children
Achieve Therapeutic Success
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
Services:
x Physical Therapy
x Occupational Therapy
x Speech Therapy
x Feeding Therapy
x Therapeutic Play Groups
Serving children ages
birth to 21.
Theraplay is a provider
for most insurance carriers.
5 Convenient locations near you:
West Chester
Trappe
Quakertown
(610) 436-3600 (610) 226-6000 (215) 804-1002
Horsham
(215) 293-8882
Broomall
(610) 356-1991
Please visit us the week of November 14th to help us celebrate our 20th Anniversary!
Call the center closest to you for more details.
OCTORARA
KIDS 12
NOVEMBER 2011
Students study architecture
To start the new school
year, third and fourth
grade students at the
Octorara Elementary
School have been
studying architecture in
their art classes. Fourth
graders are using St.
Basil’s Cathedral in
Moscow as a reference
to study towers, onion
domes and spire and
pattern designs. Third
grade students have
been creating their own
castles, using pencils
and rulers to create
towers, turrets, windows
and other details. The
picture at far left was
done by fourth grader
Elias Almanza Gutierrez;
the picture at left was
drawn by third grader
Molly Warhol. To check
out projects that are
taught in art class, visit
www.Modernartsmock
.blogspot.com or go to
the link on the Octorara
Elementary School web
site and click the ‘Art
Department Link’ on the
left.
BETH ISRAEL
PRESCHOOL/KINDERGARTEN
OPEN HOUSE
Nov. 2, 9 • 9:30 AM — Kindergarten
Nov. 2, 9 • 10:30 AM — Kindergarten Enrichment
Nov. 14 & 15 • 9:30 AM — Preschool
• ‘Mommy and Me’ — Thursdays
• 2’s classes — Tuesday/Thursday
• 3’s classes — Mon./Weds./Fri.
• 4’s classes — Mon./Tues./Weds./Fri.
• Afternoon 4’s class — Mon./Tues./Weds./Fri.
• Fantastic Fives class — Every morning
• Kindergarten — Full day
PLEASE R.S.V.P. to 610-458-4300
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for
over30
Years!
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.5-*-(2.5- !&12 )&12&0 ."2&14*++& • Kindergarten Enrichment — MWF afternoons
• for children enrolled in public kindergarten
• Program develops the whole child
• Program helps to build self-esteem
• Small class size
• Open to the public
• Summer camp
385 Pottstown Pike, Eagle, PA
HandRIGHTing, Ink.
Handwriting Development Services
“Best of Philly”® Award
is offering
group classes for children ages 6 to high school for 1 hour/week
1 Handwriting
Februa
for 6 weeks, beginning Nov. 1.
Locations: Ardmore, King of Prussia and Berwyn, PA.
1 3Februa
Focus
1 Februais on correct and efficient pencil grasp, proper letter formation,
spacing, posture, slant, speed and fluency.
Fine-motor coordination activities and crafts practiced each time.
1 Februa
1 Prizes
Februagiven to each child for trying his/her best! Kids have fun!
Sandy
1 FebruaPurvis is an occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience.
W
www.handrightingink.com or call 610-213-3334
KENNETT
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 13
acac youth basketball league
Practices start December 12th
Merit semifinalists
Four Kennett High School students and one graduate have been recognized
as National Merit semifinalists in the 57th annual National Merit Scholarship
Program. The semifinalists include (from left) seniors Leslie Carandang,
Christopher Coughlan, Emily Hanson and Matthew Bruhn.
Also achieving semifinalist status is Kennett High School graduate Melissa K.
Cassel, who left Kennett High School after her third year to attend the
University of Minnesota. The Kennett semifinalists are among more than 1.5
million juniors in 22,000 high schools who entered the 2012 National Merit
Program by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship
Qualifying Test that served as an initial screen of program entrants. The
nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than one percent of high
school seniors and includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. The
number of semifinalists in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage
of the national total of graduating seniors. These students are eligible to
continue in the program and compete for 8,300 National Merit Scholarship
awards worth more than $34 million to be offered in the spring. To advance to
the finalist level and to be considered for a Merit Scholarship award,
semifinalists must fulfill several additional requirements. These include an
outstanding academic record, endorsement by the principal and SAT scores
that confirm the preliminary results. The semifinalist and his/her counselor
must submit a detailed scholarship application that includes an essay and
information about his/her participation and leadership in school and
community activities.
Open to Members and Non-members
from 4 to 8 Year olds
Uniform, coaches, referees and
games included.
Sign up today!
1130 McDermott Drive, West Chester
I
acac.com
I
610.431.7000
I Live your best.
Black Friday
Fun Camp
8 am- 1pm (Ages 6 & up)
$30 per child
with this coupon
10% OFF Fall 2011 Class
Family Entertainment Center & Sports
ACTING CLASSES / M
MUSICAL THEATER CLASSES
SUMMER CAMPS & WORKSHOPS
Prepare for your next big role
Study with professionals
PH
PH
HONE
ONE
ON
EMAIL
484 - 9
99
95
9 5 - 2 915
[email protected]
www.westchesterstudio.com
Our 1 day Thanksgiving
version of our popular
summer camp led by our
very own, Mr. Mancini. Funfilled day of non-stop
action!
Call to sign up today!
Baseball Clinics
Black Friday
November 25
10 am- 12am Hitting
1pm- 3pm Pitching & Fielding
$25 per player per session
$40 for both sessions
Private Lessons also
Available
Softball
All Phases Class Starts Jan. 10
90 Minute Sessions
Ages 8-12, 8 weeks, $240
Pitching Clinic Starts Late Jan.
1 Hour Sessions
Ages 8 & up, 5 weeks, $150
Private lessons also
Available
Book your Birthday Party now for Fall & Winter! Laser
Tag, Mini Golf, Moonbounces, Arcade & more!
Call us for more information: 610-647-6622
grandslammalvern.com
DOWNINGTOWN
KIDS 14
School celebrating 50 years
NOVEMBER 2011
In 1961, the doors of Beaver Creek Elementary School, Downingtown, opened for
the first time. Beaver Creek was one of the first elementary schools to be built to
serve the new Downingtown Area School District. Until 1960, students in the district
were served by 16 separate buildings. The Downingtown Borough used the East
Ward and West Ward buildings. Outside of the borough, there were eight one-room
school houses, three two-room schools and one six-room school. The West Ward
building had also served as the area’s high school until a new building was built on
Manor Avenue in 1932. At the time, the new high school served eight municipalities.
In 1955, a recommendation was made to combine the high school board with the
school boards of the eight municipalities’ elementary districts into one joint board.
The report also recommended building three new elementary schools to serve the
growing population in the surrounding communities. In 1960, the first buildings
authorized by the new board opened – Downingtown High School (the current
Downingtown High School West) and Lionville Elementary School. The following
year two additional schools opened – Beaver Creek and Brandywine Wallace
elementary schools. In this 50th anniversary year, the staff of Beaver Creek
Elementary School is proud to have been a part of the education of thousands of
Downingtown area students. And, it looks forward to parading the school banner in
the Downingtown Borough’s holiday parades.
GIVE YOUR CHILD A GREAT DENTAL VISIT!!
A dental office where your child actually likes to come
A fully digital office which uses at least 90
percent less radiation than normal X-rays ...
and we’re also a mercury-free office!
BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD
FUN ATMOSPHERE
TVs, video games, coloring books, prizes and stickers.
It’s•almost as much fun as being at home.
Why see a pediatric dentist?
Find out at
www.childrensdentalhealth.com
ERIC I. FELIX, D.M.D.
SHAWN COLBERT, D.M.D.
JESSICA DICERBO, D.M.D
JOHN DRYDEN, D.M.D
JULIA ENDRIZZI, D.M.D
CARLA GUZMAN, D.D.S.
DAVID S. IGLEWICZ, D.M.D.
ROBYN E. IVKER, D.M.D.
JAISH J. MARKOS, D.M.D.
FRIENDLY, HIGHLY SKILLED DENTIST & STAFF
that uses the very latest in technology to treat your child as one of our family
• Specializing in treating only children with training
in child psychology/management
• Tooth-colored ‘white’ fillings
• Many procedures done without shots
FRIENDLY GENTLE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Good dentistry is more than excellent clinical skills. Establishing relationships
with our patients based upon trust an•communication is our hall mark.
Our staff is completely dedicated to caring for children with the highest
quality service. The result•is a fun atmosphere where your child can•get
the type of care to keep their teeth healthy for life.
THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION RECOMMENDS
AN INITIAL DENTAL VISIT BY THE AGE OF 1
Voted Top Dentists
Main Line 2001-2005
available
CALL TODAY! YOU’LL
BE GLAD YOU DID!!
Your Child Will Grow Up Liking the Dentist!
GET A GREAT START ON A LIFETIME OF GOOD DENTISTRY!
2901 Dutton Mill Rd.
Aston
610-485-9977
519 Baltimore Pike
Chadds Ford
610-388-2131
5030 State Road
Drexel Hill
610-622-1949
3915 Lincoln Hwy.
Downingtown
610-269-1900
900 W. Baltimore Pike
Suite 203, West Grove
610-869-9727
NOVEMBER 2011
CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATES
KIDS 15
DR. FELIX’S OCTOBER NO-CAVITY CLUB
Alondra Cerrantes
Corayma Cervantes
Addison Stenz
Nicholas Snyder
Amiyah Miles
Halee Rodriguez
Yoseline Escobar
Joshua Mosley
Osvaldo Gomez
Ivan Castono
Braylan Dunlap
Olivia Cross
Kaelyn Allen
Max Judd
Nathan Judd
Faith Kim
Christian Burgos
Reed Skelly
Noah Shepard
David Neal
Hunter Neal
Alexa Villagomez
Melany Villagomez
Bishop Deshields
Juliana Neyman
Brianna F. Garcia
Ava Spangler
Joash Spaongler
Jose G. Nava
Kevin Sosa
Lilty Lander
Owen Quirk
Anthony Dugan
Isaiah Rivera
Tyler Simpson
Connor Lamson
Eric McCoury
Johnny McCoury
Mary Pepe
Timothy Roberts
Abigail Roberts
Brianna Linn
Kirsten Rementer
Sloane Saxton
Sydney Saxton
Aryana Pugh
Dylan Panichelli
Olivia Panichelli
Memphis Mullen
Rachel Alexander
Nicole Ameur
Devyn McMackin
Joseph Alessandro
Jonathan Degala
Austin Masri
Marissa Fisher
Lawson His
Paloma Carmona
Rachel Jones
Sion Allen
Justin Jaggernauth
Autumn Glassco
Dakota Miles
Rocardo Albarran
Emma Jones
Hasson Vancliff
Abraham Borrero
Rishika Kyrma
Caitlyn Whitford
Jenae Watts
Emily Watts
Izabelle Peiffer
Kaliyah Gadsden
Autumn Ross
James Callaghan
Diana Valdez
Alexander Fedor
Andrew Fedor
Emma Jordan
Powen Jordan
Tyre Howard
Emilia Jenkins
Mara Grigore
Benjamin Shaulis
Carleigh Mash
Rachel Mash
Justin Klein
Nicholas Miller
Kenasia Jackson
Kenira Jackson
Jayson Defazio
Oliver McKinney
Minnah Abouraya
Annette Jara-Leon
Josue Villca
Tai Pollock
Lucia Pollock
Shauna O'Brien
Ryan Martinez
Bryan Bravo
Oswaldo Munoz
Patricia Burges
Alyssa Clemmer
Matt Wolgemuth
Rachel Wolgemuth
Michael Wolgemuth
Elizabeth Davalos
Sa. Anderson
Collin Huffman
M. De Los Angeles-Cruz
James Cassidy
Allen Worthington
Jaden Sinkler
Jarret Dandrade
Ethan Crothers
Alyssa Crothers
Ashley Flores
Anna Hannum
Cameron Niven
Adalle Clemmer
Austin Madonat
Margaret Norwood
Stephany Calle
Santos Araujo
Jonathon Baglin
Brett Camron
Liam Flood
Jupnoor Dhingra
Evan Waitte
Allyson Waitte
Roan Vahra
Emily Kinka
Rylee Kinka
Tyler Kinka
Andrew Semmel
Ellie Semmel
Sean Semmel
Aldys Davis
Thomas Davis
Nathan Butler
Lindsey Butler
M. Duran-Martinez
Juan Duran-Martinez
Dylan Munson
Nathaniel Hunter
Teodora Martiello
Giulianni Claricruzo
Michael Dillard
Carrera Dillard
Dante Zambito
Yarely Luna
Laila Poe
JaiLyn Poe
Claire Simoff
Mark Simoff
Dante Zambito
Jesse Zong
Saul Ayala
Zachary Pogue
Edwin Arroyo
Marcello Krautzel
Jacob Cassidy
Reid Cassidy
Sam McGrory
Breydan Hossack
Ella Kummeth
Matthew Kummeth
Charles Quinton
Lily Robitzer
Mattie Robitzer
Christopher Skean
Jasmine Gavina
Emma Holt
Madison Holt
Bridget Knotowski
Damon Twyman
Dionna Twyman
Ameriah Twyman
Melissa Tinoco
Joseph DeMarco
Jonathan Martinez
Nicholis Martinez
Arjel Solis
Drian Zuniga Castro
Zachary Kelly
Emily Thompson
Jazmine McKim
Katie Newswanger
Ulises Maldanado
Adham Abalraya
Alazjha Kennedy
Ryan Hoddley
Azasha Pinder
Daniel Finnety
Andrew Hyde
Jenniffer Hyde
Allison Guzman
Jocelyn McQuenn
Edgar Lopez
David Ferguson
Selens Flores
Aiden Glisson
2901 Dutton Mill Rd.
Aston
610-485-9977
Ashley Dulin
Patrick Hugill
Leonidas Miller
Jonathan Warner
Joseph Mattson
Julia Mattson
Michael Costa
Nina Gonzalez
Richard Jason
Anthony Abarca
Paul Abarca
Molly London
Zara Francis
Yanic Francis
Yaron Francis
Ahmadu Sarnor
Bintu Sarnor
Ansumana Sarnor
Nathan Brake
Daniel Brake
Nikelous Perdue
Austin Fausnaught
Isabella Fausnaught
Rebekah Comyns
Jennifer Comyns
Devon Paige Hart
Peyton Smerkanich
Yareli Zavala
Amy Aguilar
Jason Aguilar
Clare Sceski
Magdalen Sceski
Gerald Collins
Ian Schwing
Nathan Schwing
Milca Hernandez
Salomon Hernandez
Brianna D'Orazio
Braden Stoltzfus
Alexandra Centeno
Courtney Doyle
Isaiah Villa
Jaime Villalobos
Samantha Lin
Julissa Parra-Castro
Xitlali Torres
Lizette Herrera
Rafael Martinez
Elizabeth Smith
John Fazio
Diego Mireles
Emma Ward
Ixzayana Vega
Christopher Tatum
Ashley Leaumont
Bryanna Leaumont
Theodore Corbin
Casey Singleton
Michael Singleton
Chris Singleton
Aaron Uschidas
Di. Acuna-Martinez
Anjel Guzman
Eriberto Guzman
Aiden Steltzer
Zachary Stapleton
Jacob Panczner
Abigail Stauffer
Elliot Spangler
Cassandra Sanchez
Sebastian Sanchez
Steven Sanchez
Seth Allport
Alexander Burns
Brandon Kim
Lauren Kim
Dylan Gunawardhana
Tyler Gunawardhana
Abigail Teberian
Maci Becker
Anna Rose Winner
Samuel Winner
Zachary Felker
William Stevens
Ethan Root
Caleb Lusby
Tyler Lusby
Mason Winner
Jorge Zurita
Brandi P. Elvira
Aaron Simpkins
Daniel Sisson
Leticia Cruz-Flroes
Joey Medina
Joey Medina
Lillian Robinette
Alice Huneke
Lucien McKeon
Edwin Carillo
Joselyn Espinoza
Darian Guerrero
Molly Sallurday
Madison Sallurday
Elizabeth Rogers
Yo. Sanchez-Balcaz
Aidan Browne
Jared Browne
Angel Garcia-Cruz
Ashley Espinosa
Sebastian Hess
Maura Johnson
Molly Johnson
Dulce Torres-Tapia
Zayden Smith
Rachel Genovese
Elizabeth Genovese
Jonathan Genovese
Matthew Kay
Riley McLaughlin
Martin Jimenez
Quinn Hechler
Er. Nava-Palmerin
Juan Nava-Palmerin
Rosa Nava-Palmerin
Nathan Nakeri
I. Hernandez-Gregorio
E. Hernandez-Gregorio
Abraham Moreno
Andohny Moreno
Bryen Ayala
Emily Clontz
James Clontz
Jaquelin Hernandez
Gabriel Fragale
Savannah Fragale
Amy Tellez
Samantha Tellez
Ashley Laguno-Hern
Brianna Dougherty
Andrew Simeone
Bridget Sincavage
Destini Jones
Ian Torrens
Ashley Lavelta
Kayleigh Klonicke
Zachary Klonicke
Mason Klonicke
Nadhir Ward
Na. Robinson Jones
Ethan Kosits
Julian Lozada
Isabella Ruddy
Jonathan Reyes
Jamileth Rivera
Jonathan Rivera
Stephanie Aker
Morgan McFelly
Denise Romero
Ryan Corsello
Paige Corsello
Daniel Trego
Isaac Williams
David Juarez
Draven Peazomi
Savoy Harris
Sanpha Kamra
Marion Kamara
Dinah Mukalian
Ronald Mukalian
Brooke Trent
Natalie Wheeler
Nakaya Lawrence
Claire Wegerbaur
Zoe Gomez
Brittney Cruz-Loeza
Jose Cruz-Loeza
Jaynie Owens
Jenna Owens
Libby Kiley
519 Baltimore Pike
Chadds Ford
610-388-2131
Hezekiah Ward
Malachi Ward
Chris Gonzalez
Emily Hedrick
Evelyn Orlowski
Lydia Orlowski
Rachael Bulalrd
Rachel Kimes
Juan Vela-Pena
Zach Reed
Logan Entress
Neveah Brown
Casey McNelly
Ralph McNelly
Andrew McNelly
Marteusz Cyrulik
Romello Wilson
Jacob Bilinski
Bethany Griffin
Kaitlyn Bean
Zachary Bean
Dylan Genco
Rylie Stellato
Anthony Demarco
Serena Farace
Dahlia Tran
Brian Martinez
Justin McGarvey
Emily Goodrich
Josue Hernandez
Joseph Wilder
Owen Wilder
Alex Galvin
Brendan Woodward
Kaila Oskins
Kya Joseph
Carol Munoz-Deloya
Hallie Myers
Jairo Martinez
Liliana Martinez
Brooke Wilford
Sebastian Wilford
Lauren Perlish
Christopher Perlish
Steven Hill
Ian Wyatt
Nathan Wyatt
Nadia Oliver
Colby Palomeque-Mari
Monica Proud
Gianna Santiago
Nicholas Mento
Vincente Mento
Thomas Rubinaccio
Elizabeth Rubinaccio
Major Glassco
Peter Scheffer
Annamarie Scheffer
M. Pelayo-Estrada
Angel Pelayo-Estrada
Maggie Dougherty
Natalia G. Murrey
Kevin McFarland
Lila Walls
Elizabeth Sell
Cameron Wallace
Jacob Mohr
Kayden Shelton
Jashua Clevenger
Adrian Salgado
Matthew Edwards
Ian Jones
Kamryn Jones
Sydney McGee
Tyson McGee
Terrence Thompson
P. Thompson
Antonio Pitcherella
Chris Barns
Dylan Carr
Liam Belleville
Cassidy Dunn
Chris Davalos
Destynee Blair
Quintyn Blair
Katelyn Powell
Natasha Scott
Mason Orr
MaKaylynn Orr
Michael Romano
Emily Chavarria
Megan Allen
Ryan Allen
Nicholas Marker
Maria Costilla
Park Komacek
Danile Raffa
Barbara Raffa
Anthony Gourdier
Emanuel M. Almanza
Dymond Cooper
Jalyncia Christman
Jacob Malick
Mackenzie Malick
Mackenna Streussing
Chrstopher Panik
Melanie Panik
Joseph Taylor
Chloe Cox
Richard Luciano
Robert Luciano
Lawrence Mack
Daniel Brooks
Stethanie Lopez
Emma Semple
Olsa Grajqueci
Kyla Reunell
Auanna Reunell
Joseph Bryant
Yasiri Martinez
Alexander Martinez
Zaimara Velez
Angelena Minardi
Mark Minardi
Margaret Klapper
Jake Provencher
Josie Provencher
Tori Benner
Patrick Bryne
Matthew Bryne
London Petrosky
Kyle Jones
Kacie Matzye
David Guerri
Claudia Buchanan
Cecilia Buchanan
Lawrence Smith
Ashanti Pittman
Elizabeth Payne
Taylor Payne
Zion Trowery
Michel Madanat
Kylie Weiderhold
Alexis Boggs
Anailyah Towles
Jordan Guerri
Leon Guerri
Conner Cutolo
Victor Paskings
Amanda Ciuner
Madison Jennings
Zoe Lucci
Sebastian lecates
Savannah Slauch
Valeria Reynoso
Gianna Haldaman
5030 State Road
Drexel Hill
610-622-1949
Mariah Stokes
Emanuell Gonzalez
Jose Manuel Rosas
Giselle Ceron
Josue Zea
Katherine Graf
Isaiah Rothwell
Joseph Rothwell
Shane Monaghan
Jesus Baeza
Ella Racher
Zachary Bacher
Tripp Skaggs
Mandi Skaggs
Colby Gallagher
Nyzit Watson
Melissa Vivero
Hunter Moffitt
Andrea Hernandez
Leslie Hernandez
Braulio Guzman
Edgar Guzman
Luther Wesseh
Alex Wodarski
Dominic Lancaster
Frederick Werth
Gianna Shirlow
Ava Shirlow
Evan Hirshfield
Crystal Salgado
Aleksander Buler
Rachel Sixtos
David Sixtos
Brian Moreno
Jessie Moreno
Kevin Bedolla
John Zimath
Ben Stipe
Madilyn Osher
Samantha Harrison
Thomas Troutman
Ella Hughes
Chase Gallagher
Yuridia Martinez
Andrea Alonso
Anthony Silvester
Jason Lane
Devon Stroup
Adam Williams
Aliyah Murohy
Alexander Everly
Christopher Everly
Mary McMillan
Wiliam McDonaugh
Itzel Gutierrez
Julisa Sanchez
Leslie Sanchez
Jonathan Acuna
Yeleidi Murillo
Luis Murillo Garcia
Kellie Munro
Lain Singer
Teryn Singer
Brandon McCoy
Shaun Good
William Augustine
Aisha Martin
Wendy F. Acuna
Ashlee Fazekas
Jennifer Acuna
Yander Villafuerte
Danielle Diulio
Kenneth Diulio
Nicolas Miller
Jordan Miller
Jesus Zavala
Jack Cummings
Gr. Magrone-Stahly
Re. Magrone-Stahly
Jonathan Sage
Bryanna Baker
Ashley Rodriguez
Nevan Graham
Maggie Graham
Jack Lawler
Emily Rodriguez
Owen Messinger
Miriam Messinger
Kira Messinger
Eva Narun
Rae Narun
Quinn Sweringen
AJ Stefanide
Lexus McKinney
Casey McKinney
Jordan Campbell
Casey McKinney
Chirstopher Shaw
Mira Patel
Dylan Westphal
Heather Kaskey
Patricia Holladay
Marcus Rundatz
Delaney Cronauer
Benjamin Cronauer
Henry Meza
Desire Clifford
Vincent DiMateo
Mingzhu Huang
Olivia Rippert
Nicholas Esteves
Elizabeth Esteves
Kylee Riggins
Jayvion Moreno
William Caez
Riochard Garcia
Sophia Bandy
Samantha Tuck
Christian Davis
Jonathan Taylor
Misty Faretty
Karson Powell
Travis Wagner
Bryan Ceron-Ramos
Luis Rodriguez
Dajah Morton
Logan Baum
Jessica Martinez
Treron London
Madison Bedwell
Amanda Hegarty
Ashley Stringer
Richard Morrow
Rae-Mone Carter
Chalyse Daroci
Ryan Jackson
Jack Enterline
Amelia Enterline
Shakeem Grasvenor
William Wallace
Davis Marsh
Autumn Marsh
Evelyn Wright
Eleanor Wright
Blayze Scott
Abigail Scott
Cole Corby
Claire Corby
Julia Barber
Antanae Matthews
Edwin Moreno
Alex Burns
Aiden Connolly
Brenda Siguenza
Orville Henandez
Benton Berselli
Caroline Berselli
Bryson Richarson
Julio Acosta
David Zea
Elaina Lugo
Evan Wickersham
Asli Cetin
Phierce Peoples
Michael Pepe
Sophia Pepe
Tiara Damico
Jennifer Estrada
Jason Deel
Gabriel Jensen
Lara jensen
Bruce Oyang
Andrew Baratta
Patrick Baratta
Paige Paratta
Joel Hipkins
Jason Hipkins
Aidan Difolelli
Vishrut Kannan
3915 Lincoln Hwy.
Downingtown
610-269-1900
Michael Puchek
E. Kadyszewski-Lombardi
Sylvia Goodnough
Brianna Levy
Kyra Kevy
Kaylee cintura
Carley Dwyer
Shane Dwyer
Keira Taylor
Preston Taylor
Nicholas Taylor
Brady Esser
Molly Marsala
Aubrey Marsala
Dominick Weaver
Hallie Weaver
Alec Oldham
Chloe Oldham
Dominic D'Alessandro
Gianna D'Alessandro
Eric Gonzalez-Colon
Luis Gonzalez
Milagros Steele
Lukas Clark
Caden Clark
Reginald Loper
Hannah Gendell
Anthony Vargas
Joseph Lawler
Thanuxsan Anton
Ben Bolton
Robert Cosgrove
Abby Fraundorfer
Cesar Cordova
Dagan Proffitt
Lizette Lopez
Areli Luna-Reyes
Evelyn Garcia
Hannah Lammey
Tommy Liebeskind
Evelyn Davalos
Ramiro Castaneda
Giselle Zurita
Darien Golly
Jose Cabrera
Caroline Zuleba
Emily Zuleba
Mikael Ramos
Nicholas Desderio
Lindsey Desderio
Christopher Acuna
Avery Slezak
Jonathan Duran
Br. Herrera-Navarrete
Christian Vega-Zavala
Lorenzo Emilio-Avila
James Pratt
Francesca MacGregor
James MacGregor
William MacGregor
Eva Ciufefetelli
Daniel Ayala-Ramirez
Erick Ayala
Carlo Ciuffetelli
Jack Perlman
Kyle Perlman
Luke Black
Michael Harkins
Gianna Urbani
Isabella Vanderhoef
Natalie Vanderhoef
Jerremy Vanderhoef
Sameul Tequaines
Brian Lightner
Kevin Lightner
Ivy Hernandez
Sophia Cerdova-Diaz
Carson Smith
Lillian Smith
Declan O'Neill
Morgan D'Amato
Dalton O'Neill
Ashley Dryden
Tyler Reger
Zachary Reger
Brenda Mendoza
Rchel McClaren
Eric Ortega
Gisselle Ortega
Alexander Keenan
McKenzie Keenan
Eric Juarez-Reza
Courtney Ward
Morgan Shelder
Quinn Shelder
Tyler Pappas
Emma Pappas
Abigail Byers
Emma Byers
Tyler Krain
Adrianna Sommers
Tyler Bourdreau
Emily Bourdreau
Lynsi Hutchinson
Blake Hutchinson
Faith Boyd
Charlie Alvarez
Dominick Attaway
Rebecca Harper
Jullian Longacre
Ahna Pizzillo
Alessandra Pizzillo
Patrick Pizzillo
Jemilsy Rosado
Emily Carrigan
Dylan Coyle
Jessica Griest
Jonathan Beach
Aidan Gamble
Lucas Ronayne
Noah Ronayne
Sarah Poce
Omar Madanat
Dominick Costanzi
Lauren Costanzi
Maria Costanzi
Lindsey Anderson
Quetxalit Escalante
James Garcia
Olivia Mowday
Kylie Grafje
Braden Grafje
Trevor Garcia
James Garcia
Anthony Garcia
An. Luniga-Castino
Bianca Cortez
Devon Kristman
Julio Mendez
Ma. Lindenberger
Brittany Cedano
Anay Hernandez
Trinity Meeks
Ryann M. Vollmer
James Wegenoauer
Elsie Weldon
Jack Weldon
Kylie Carroll
Myles Halvorsen
Zoe Halversen
Madison Kristman
Teresa Klugewicz
Andrew Klugewicz
Madeleine Klugewicz
Mitchell Micale
Katelyn Kelly
George Butler
Braden Finley
Kaitlyn Finley
Shefa Khalid
Zachary Nyairo
Zoe Vitello
Robert Potter
Antono Avellaneda
St. Avellaneda
Le. Tucker-Turner
Jarren Fair
Mariano Debenedictis
Henry Edgington
Cole Chretien
Olivia McCormick
Chloe McCrosson
Bryn Salamon
Mikaela Hall
Gwyneth Hall
Kaitlyn Baker
Rachel Baker
Christian Brough
Madison Brough
Jayden Capaccio
Andre Jackson
Jordan Nystrand
Jacob Duran
Isabella Anderson
Chase Cieszynski
Cierra Moss
Henry Forrest
Mary Forrest
William Forrest
Edwin Dominguez
Rachael Jassiepen
Gu. Juarez Zavala
Dafne Ruiz
Lauren Tyson
Matthew Roby
900 W. Baltimore Pike
Suite 203, West Grove
610-869-9727
WEST CHESTER
KIDS 16
NOVEMBER 2011
Garden beds cropping up at
district’s secondary schools
By VIRGINIA ZAHN
Garden beds have been cropping up
at secondary schools in the West
Chester Area School District this fall.
Coordinated by Science Supervisor
Paul Joyce, the Chester County Food
Bank donated wood, soil, seeds, plants
and knowledgeable volunteers to install
garden beds at all district middle and
high schools.
Seventy percent of the produce
harvested from these beds will be
donated to the food bank in an effort
to distribute organic vegetables to
community members in need. The
remaining 30 percent will be used by
each school in Family and Consumer
Science classrooms, Life Skills
programs, and high school child
development classes.
In an effort to assist more than
40,000 county households struggling to
buy food, the non-profit Chester County
Food Bank distributes more than 1.2
million pounds of food per year to more
St. Matthew’s School
Preschool and Kindergarten
Teaching From the Heart
than 65 organizations that include food
cupboards, meal sites and non-profit
organizations. It is estimated that each
installed garden site will produce more
than 200 pounds of produce per year.
Starkweather and Exton elementary
schools were the first schools in the
district to embrace the idea of growing
vegetables. Built by students, teachers
and community volunteers, these
schools have successfully maintained
their gardens, donating organic produce
to local food banks each season.
Last spring, Hillsdale and Penn
Wood elementary schools joined their
ranks and are completing their first
harvest. During the process of tending
their gardens, students not only give
back to their community, but in doing
so, gain first-hand knowledge
applicable to science, nutrition and life
skills lessons.
(Virginia Zahn is the communications
coordinator for the West Chester Area
School District.)
WE TAKE PRIDE IN “PAINLESS” DENTISTRY
Tickle Tooth Dental
...a caring touch
THE MIRACLE OF
LASER DENTISTRY
OPEN HOUSE
Monday, December 5 at 6:30 pm
• No Needles for Numbing
• No Drilling
• No Scary Sounds
Come to St. Matthew's to meet the Director, staff and school board.
Tour the facility while you are here.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Kindergarten
Preschool
• Full Day Program from 9 to 3.
• Curriculum designed to exceed both state
• and local standards.
• Multi-sensory approach to reading and
• writing.
• Small class size.
• Small and large group learning activities.
• Monthly themes allow for community out
• reach and project based learning.
• Busing from local school districts is
• available.
• Competitive pricing.
• 2, 3, 4 and 5 year old classes.
• Morning or afternoon sessions.
• Curriculum covering all areas of
• development while incorporating Christian
• values.
• Plenty of time built into the day to learn
• through play.
• Individual attention and respect for each
• child.
• A caring and experienced staff.
Contact Sandy for more information at 610-458-3381 or [email protected].
2440 Conestoga Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425 • www.stmatthewslutheran.org
YOUR COMFORT IS OUR FIRST CONCERN
• TV’s in every exam room
• Reception room filled with toys
• & activities for younger kids
• “Treasure Box” rewards at the
• end of each appointment
• Sugarless treats as a parting gift
DR. HANDEL & ASSOCIATES
610-363-8872
235 South Pottstown Pike
Exton, PA 19341
OXFORD
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 17
Earning ‘Stingers’ a good thing at Hopewell school
By ART SALATTO
On Oct. 3 students, staff and parents at
Hopewell Elementary School, Oxford,
kicked off a new School-Wide Positive
Behavior Support Program with two
enthusiastic assemblies.
Through the program, the fifth and
sixth graders will be eligible to earn
“Stingers,” which are tickets based on
Oxford’s Hornet mascot, when they are
“caught” displaying positive behavior and
demonstrating one of the school’s three
key rules: be safe, be respectful and be
responsible.
“After a student receives a “Stinger,”
he/she goes to the main office, records
his/her name in a ‘celebrity’ book, and
picks a number,” said Assistant Principal
Louis Conti. “The student’s name will be
placed on our Principal’s 200 Club board
alongside the number that the student
picked. When the board shows 10 student
names in a row or diagonally, one of the
10 students will win a prize from a
drawing.”
The School-Wide Positive Behavior
Support Program is designed to teach
students expectations for their behavior
throughout all areas of the school,
including on the buses. The program
works together with Hopewell’s Olweus
Bullying Prevention Program.
“We have a program committee that
works very hard on the lessons and
implementation of the school program,”
said Principal Nicole Addis. “Our staff has
been working on this plan over the past
As part of the kickoff of its new School-Wide Positive Behavior Support Program,
Hopewell Elementary School, Oxford, held a student poster contest. From among
50 entries, three winning posters were selected. The contest winners included
(front, from left) fifth grader Nate Rodriguez, sixth grader Julianna Huggard and the
team of sixth graders, including Abby Hamilton, Devan Roper and Quinn Burton,
pictured with Principal Nicole Addis. In the back (from left) are Assistant Principal
Louis Conti and Oxford Area School District Superintendent Dr. Raymond Fischer.
year.”
Addis said that similar programs have
been implemented in other Oxford
schools, including Nottingham Elementary
School, which her students attended from
second to fourth grades, and Penn’s Grove
Middle School, which they will attend in
seventh and eighth grades.
“Our students are familiar with this
plan and this allows for a smooth
transition to both Hopewell and Penn’s
Grove,” she said.
•
Nottingham Elementary School.
Nottingham Elementary School, Oxford,
recently kicked off its Safety Patrol
program for 2011-12 as AAA MidAtlantic Safety Services Manager
Christopher R. Massaferi inducted
approximately 120 fourth grade students
into the patrol, which is sponsored by the
AAA Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Safety
and Education.
Patrollers help direct fellow students to
safely cross streets and driveways, exit
and enter buses, and walk to their
homerooms quickly and quietly. Patrol
members also teach students about traffic
safety on a peer-to-peer basis and serve as
role models.
Members receive training in traffic
safety, and develop safety awareness,
leadership skills, the ability to work as a
team, self-esteem, civic mindedness and
respect for law enforcement.
The October/November lieutenants and
captains of the fourth grade Safety Patrol
at Nottingham include lieutenants Jasmine
Morefield, Shannon Ward, Matthew Todd
and Michael Snowden. Captains include,
Jazlin McNeil, Ryan Brower, Genisus
Herrera Alex Pearson, Julia Hartman,
Chris Palkon, Amanda Brake, Juliana
Raika, Daniela Sandoval, Jack Ewing,
Michael Bayer, Drew Prangley and Bruce
Trimmer. Captains and lieutenants will be
appointed on a monthly basis throughout
the school year.
(Art Salatto is the communications
specialist for the Oxford Area School
District.)
THEY’RE BAAAAAACCCKKK !
65 MILLION YEARS AGO THEY ROAMED THE WORLD,
NOW THEY’RE BACK IN A CITY NEAR YOU!
Come see over 75 dinosaurs including the Burning Tree Mastodon,
the world’s most intact skeleton ever found!
Touch them, sit on them, even get your picture with them!
• Huge, 15,000 sq. ft. life-like dinosaur exhibit!
• Cold River Mining Experience ... where you can dig for fossils and mine for gems!
• Pictures with Santa! • Petting Zoo! • Pony Rides!
• Moon Bounces! • Games! • Other Family Fun Activities!
• Story Book Musical Production of Blue Lou and The Bullyfish!
(3 shows per day as well as other on-stage performances)
The Family Fun & Dinosaur Fest
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
100 Station Avenue • Oaks, PA 19456
www.FFFest.com
$3 OFF
per child
must be presented at the door
The Family Fun & Dinosaur Fest At Oaks
November 25th - 27th
www.FFFest.com
Friday: 12 noon-8 pm
Saturday: 10 am-8 pm
Sunday: 10 am-6 pm
With this coupon. Not valid with other offers
or prior purchase. Offer expires 11-27-11.
UNIONVILLE-CHADDS FORD
KIDS 18
NOVEMBER 2011
District welcomes German exchange students
By RICH HUG
Unionville High School students have
been participating in a student exchange
partnership with students from the OttoHahn-Gymnasium, Gottingen, Germany.
The 20 German students, all high
school-age, have been staying with
Unionville High School students since
Oct. 20. They will finish their stay here
on Nov. 4. Traveling with the students
are the Otto-Hahn High School principal
and an English teacher from the school.
Students were introduced to their
American hosts at a breakfast on Oct. 20.
Superintendent John Sanville, Unionville
High School Principal Paula Massanari
and high school teacher Pam Graybeal
welcomed the German students and their
chaperones.
The visitors have been spending time
in Unionville High School classes and
visiting Washington, D.C., and
Philadelphia while living with their host
students throughout their 16-day stay.
Unionville High School, in
participating in the German American
Partnership Program exchange, will send
its students to their partner school in
Gottingen in June. The GAPP is a nonprofit high school exchange program
between schools in Germany and the
United States, sponsored by the German
Foreign Office and by the United States
Department of State.
The main objective of the program is
the integration of students into the
everyday life of host families and into the
Members of the Otto-Hahn-Gymnasium, Gottingen, Germany,
pose for a group photo outside Unionville High School. The
students, and their chaperons, have been participating in an
classroom activities of host schools to
provide them with a coherent
intercultural experience.
Last year, students from Unionville
High School and Patton Middle School,
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1777 N. Valley Road, Malvern
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Registration for
GEYA SPRING SOCCER
open Dec. 1 - Jan. 31
at www.geyasports.org.
RECREATIONAL
SOCCER PROGRAMS
BOYS — Kindergarten, Grade 1,
Grades 2-3, Grades 4-5, Grades 6-8
GIRLS — Kindergarten, Grade 1,
Grades 2-3, Grades 4-5, Grades 6-8
COED — Grades 9-12
Spring season runs from
April through early June.
Players get equal time & attention.
No experience necessary.
No residency restrictions.
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ST. JAMES
PRESCHOOL
Celebrating over 40 Years
of Teaching Excellence ...
• 21/2-to-5-Year-Old Programs
• Mommy & Me Programs
• Pre-K Enrichment Program
• AM & PM Sessions
• Lunch Bunch Program
• Small Class Sizes
• Parent-Teacher Organization
409 E. LANCASTER AVE. DOWNINGTOWN
www.vfes.net
BIRTHDAY PARTIES!
the
Pottery Place
‘A paint your own pottery studio’
Come and Try our New Programs or
Sign-up for our Regular Classes:
• Preschool Storytime
• Ornament Making
• Friday Family Nights through Nov.
• Clay Classes for Adults & Kids
• Scouts — Earn your Pottery Badge
610-269-0525
OPEN FOR WALK-IN BUSINESS
Where Learning & Fun Go Hand-in-Hand
Call us at 610-772-0433
www.harmonpottery.com
www.stjamespreschool.com
GLENMOORE EAGLE YOUTH ASSOCIATION
Unionville, participated in a Chinese
student exchange program. As with that
experience, American and German
students, families and teachers will reap
the rich rewards of this cultural exchange
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exchange program. They arrived in Unionville on Oct. 20 and
will leave on Nov. 4. Unionville students will visit Gottingen in
June.
2012 REGISTRATION BEGINS MONDAY, DEC. 12
Located inside the United Sports Training Center
program.
(Rich Hug is the director of technology
and communications for the Unionville
Chadds-Ford School District.)
11 named Merit
semifinalists
Eleven Unionville High School students
have been named semifinalists in the 2012
National Merit Scholarship Program.
These academically talented seniors will
continue in the competition and compete
for 8,300 National Merit Scholarships,
worth more than $34 million, that will be
offered next spring.
The semifinalists include: Bhaskaran
Balaji, Nicole Bernstein, Eli Bleemer,
Lauren Faux, Sarah Fulton, Nick Jones,
Pearl Li, Alice Liu, Nora Tang, Pat Yan
and Sam Yarosh.
Twenty other Unionville students were
named commended students in recognition
of their outstanding academic promise.
Commended students may be candidates
for special scholarships provided by
corporate and business sponsors.
They include: Lauren Baker, Sonia
Berg, Meg Boeni, Michaela Cohen, Sarah
Dwyer, Jacquelyn Gamble, Eliza Gilpin,
Jillian Jaycox, Michael Krause, Roland
Lindmayer, Andrea McCullough, Jeffrey
Miller, Elizabeth Proch, Scott
Seidenberger, Emily Senegeto, Jenna
Taylor, Juliet Taylor, Casey Turezyn,
Annie Webb and Julie Wushensky.
More than 1.5 million juniors in 22,000
high schools entered the National Merit
Scholarship Program by taking the
Preliminary SAT/National Merit
Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served
as an initial screen of entrants. The
nationwide pool of 16,000 semifinalists
represents less than one percent of U.S.
high school seniors.
COATESVILLE
NOVEMBER 2011
KIDS 19
Volunteers give seats
in auditorium a facelift
On Oct. 8 from 8-3 p.m., more than 20 parent and student volunteers at South
Brandywine Middle School, Coatesville, sanded and re-stained seats in the
school auditorium. Principal Anthony Mallozzi initiated ‘Project Pride’ for
students and parents to offer a helping hand to the school in cleaning up worn
or tattered seats. The project — the first of its kind — was deemed a
tremendous success. In the photo at left, Mallozzi and volunteer parent Deandria
Mansfield check the progress of the seat restoration project. In the photo above,
seventh grader Indya London (from left), seventh grader Devin Rooks and
eighth grader LePaige Baldwin are busy at work.
Happy Holidays from
West Chester Parks & Recreation
~ Behold the Magic and Beauty
of this Glorious Ballet ~
Holiday Activities
Old Fashioned Christmas
Soup & Sandwich Parlour
Friday, Dec. 2
Knights of Columbus
116 W. Market St., West Chester
5:45 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Serving assorted hot and cold sandwiches,
soups, snacks and desserts at family
prices. Live entertainment provided.
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, Dec. 3
Chester County Historical Society
225 N. High St., West Chester
Two Seatings — 8:30 a.m. & 10 a.m.
$12 per person
Reservations Required; Call WC Rec Dept.
Saturday, Dec. 17
2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 18 ~ 2:00 p.m.
Gingerbread House Making
Saturday, Dec. 3
West Chester Municipal Building Lobby
401 E. Gay St., West Chester
2-4 p.m. • $9 per person
Limited to first 30 people who pre-register.
All materials will be supplied.
Bus trips to
Radio City Music Hall
Friday, Dec. 2; show starts at 10 a.m.
Saturday, Dec. 3; show starts at 11:30 a.m.
Friday $125/pp; Sat. & Sun. $185/pp
All trips include orchestra seating,
transportation, tickets, all taxes and tips.
Note: There are only 44 tickets per show.
No phone registrations. Call for details.
For Information contact:
West Chester Parks & Recreation at 610-436-9010
or [email protected]
West Chester Performances
Henderson Auditorium
Group Rate Discount
Brownies, Girl Scouts, Schools, Social & Organizational Groups
Tickets on the Main Floor
$9.00, $11.00, $14.00, $16.00, $18.00, $20.00, $25.00, $30.00
For Premier Seating,
Please Call 610-431-2333
IN
KIDS 20
THE
COMMUNITY
NOVEMBER 2011
Parent workshop scheduled
A parent workshop on “Organizing for
Learning: Helping Students Better
Manage Time and Materials” will be
given by Valley Forge Educational
Services, 1777 N. Valley Rd., Paoli, on
Nov. 16 from 6-8 p.m.
The workshop is part of the “Children
Who Learn Differently” Parent Learning
Series. It is designed to help area parents
equip their children with the “survival
skills” to become better students. The
series can help nurture a partnership
between parents and teachers to support
success in school and at home.
Maria Kreiter, director of professional
development and outreach at Valley
Forge Educational Services, will be the
presenter. Parents will learn strategies
for helping children become better
organized for learning. The cost is $25
for parents. Interested parties can
register at www.vfes.net.
Valley Forge Educational Services
offers a wide variety of educational
services focused on guiding 21st century
learners to independence. VFES provides
educational solutions for young children,
adolescents and pre-21 adults, ranging
from K-12 school-based and summer
programs to post high school (18-to-21year-olds) transition skills programming
to clinical consultation services.
Searching for Santa ?
He will be at The Desmond on December 4 and December 18!
Enjoy a fabulous brunch buffet for the whole family!
The children can deliver their holiday wishes to santa from
9:00 am - 1:30 pm and enjoy a photo keepsake!
Adults $22 Children $14
Reservations required
www.desmondgv.com
One Liberty Boulevard, Malvern, Pennsylvania (at Routes 202 & 29)
ALL ABOARD
‘Santa’s Express’
Nov. 25, 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18
Jolly Old St. Nick will be aboard our heated, lighted, decorated train
featuring holiday entertainment and with a treat for all kids. Trains depart
Market Street Station (230 E. Market St.) at 11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m.
Adult fare: $20 • Children (2-12): $12.50 & (9 mos.-2, not on adult lap) $5.
GET ABOARD THE ‘FOLIAGE EXPRESS’
On Sundays Nov. 6, 13 and 20, see the Upper Chester Creek Valley in its
entire fall splendor and color. Trains depart Market Street Station at
12 noon and 2 p.m. Adult fare: $12.50 • Children (2-12) $10.50
THE WEST CHESTER RAILROAD
Call 610-430-2233 for Information
Visit our web site: www.westchesterrr.net
Karate championship
On Oct. 15, members of Team Full Force and students of David Fuller Karate,
West Chester, competed in the West Chester Fall Classic Karate
Championship at the Great Valley Middle School, Malvern. The 11 students,
ranging in age from 8-to-25 years and in expertise from beginner to expert,
competed in sparring, weapons and forms. They brought home 16 medals.
Team Full Force, represented by Abigail Agulnick, Luke Eadie and Breeanna
Marron, earned four first places, one second place, one third and one fourth
place. David Fuller students came to the tournament with varying levels of
experience in competition. Some like Luke Eadie, 11, and Abigail Agulnick, 8,
are experienced and have already won national and world championship
titles. For others, such as Kim Le, Frankie Jacquette, Taun Le, Killian Delaney,
Zack Antonucci, Brianna Keogan and Erik Collins, the West Chester Fall
Classic was their first tournament. For Samantha Phipps, 8, the Fall Classic
was her second successful tournament in 2011. Pictured above are (front,
from left) Phipps, Keogan, (back, from left) Mr. Matt, Master Fuller and Miss
Steph. For more information, call 610-429-4850.
OUT OF
REACH FARM
1325 Paoli Pike
West Chester
610-738-8147
Offering Lessons • Boarding • Sales
Showing • Camps • Birthday Parties
Please call for brochure or for complete
information, visit www.out-of-reach-farm.com
• HOLIDAY CAMP •
Mon. Dec. 26-Fri. Dec. 30
Ages 5-to-15 Years
All Levels of Experience Welcome
NOVEMBER 2011
PHOENIXVILLE
KIDS 21
Merit semifinalists
Four Phoenixville Area High School students have been named semifinalists
in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. The students are (from left)
Kathryn Sutton, Sean Speers, Jacob Stambaugh and Alec Thompson. High
school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary
SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which serves as an initial
screen of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year. About 34,000 of the
50,000 high scorers qualify as commended students; the remaining students
qualify as semifinalists. The semifinalists, the highest scoring entrants in their
state, now have the opportunity to advance to the finalist level and compete
for 8,300 scholarships offered in the spring 2012. To advance to the finalist
level and to be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists
must fulfill several additional requirements. These include an outstanding
academic record, endorsement by the principal and SAT scores that
confirm the preliminary results.
Free Horse-Drawn
Carriage Rides with
Santa and Mrs. Claus!
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Reindeer Sighting
'HFHPEHU'HYRQ‡6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
'HFHPEHU([WRQ‡10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Free hot chocolate for all riders!
Bring your camera!
Routes 30 & 100 in Exton
Kohl’s, Acme, TJ Maxx, Big Lots
and many more great stores
Visit one of Santa’s live reindeer before he takes off for his trip on
Christmas Eve. Bring the family and your camera for treasured memories.
5
:DWHUORR*DUGHQV&RXSRQvalid through November 30, 2011
SAVE $ off
*C600*
C600
Saturday, Nov. 26th, Dec. 3rd, 10th, & 17th
11am - 2pm and Dec. 24th, 10am - 1pm
<RXU3XUFKDVHRIRUPRUH
Offer excludes Pandora, Vera Bradley, John Medeiros, Bonn Bons,
Big Green Egg products, and Waterloo gift cards. In-stock merchandise only.
Not valid on previously purchased merchandise or custom orders. Cannot be used
with any other coupons. Customer pays applicable sales tax before discount.
No cash value.
([WRQ‡'HYRQ‡ZDWHUORRJDUGHQVFRP
IN
KIDS 22
THE
COMMUNITY
NOVEMBER 2011
TREES, TREES, TREES
YEAGER’S TREE FARM & MARKET
Western Road & Rt. 113 South, Kimberton, PA
(3 miles south of Phoenixville)
H CUT YOUR OWN H
Douglas Fir
Large Selection of Fresh Trees Available:
Douglas Fir & Fraser Fir
Live B&B Trees
H CHRISTMAS SHOPPE H
featuring: Gift Items, Fresh Live Wreaths, Holly,
Roping & Greens, Bows, Candles & Cemetery Pieces
Homemade Baked Goods, Apples & Apple Cider
H HOURS H
Cut Your Own Tree Fields — Open 11 a.m. - Close at Dusk
Market/Shop — Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Dec. 5-23 — 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday through Friday
10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
** Weekends — Hayrides to the Tree Fields
Complimentary Hot Cocoa & Coffee • Hot Dogs & Pretzels for Sale
FOR INFORMATION & DIRECTIONS, PHONE:
610-935-8244 or 610-933-7379
OR VISIT www.yeagersfarmmarket.net
Dance concert benefit
Touch of Class Dance Studio joined together with 11 other area dance studios
in ‘A Dance Concert Benefit for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’ on Oct. 16
at The Lang Performing Arts Center at Swarthmore College. Honored at this
dance concert was one of Touch of Class Dance Studio’s own dancers, sixyear-old Delaney Farren, who is still battling leukemia after being diagnosed
when she was three years old. Farren performed the ‘Tiki Tiki’ dance with
some of the members of her dance class. During the show, the performers
remembered the slogan, ‘Dance as if your life depends on it and dance
because someone’s life does!’ TOC staffer Terry Rawlings organized and
directed the event. The Touch of Class Dance Studio (owners Debbie Apalucci,
Debi Kineavy and Tara Liberatore) has been educating boys and girls in dance
for 32 years. Touch of Class has studios in Downingtown and Broomall. For
more information, call 610-328-1800 or e-mail [email protected].
ON
SALE
NOW!
NOVEMBER
6
1:00PM & 4:30PM
TICKETTS
STAR !
AT $12
Tickets:
Liacouras Center Box
ox Office
00
800-298-4200
/BARNEY
ply.
s may ap
Additional fee
barneylivetour.com • Follow us on
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and
55140 10/11
NOVEMBER 2011
HOLIDAY CALENDAR
KIDS 23
For Longwood Gardens,
a gingerbread fantasy
“A Longwood Christmas,” which runs
from Nov. 24 through Jan. 8, will be
sweeter this year as the gardens will be
transformed into a gingerbread fantasy,
featuring fanciful and imaginative
displays.
See Longwood landmarks recreated in
gingerbread, stand beneath towering
trees adorned with gingerbread
ornaments and don’t miss the candyladen music room overflowing with
sweet holiday cheer. In addition, visitors
will enjoy the sight of 500,000 lights
adorning trees outside and holiday organ
and choir concerts inside.
Visitors must purchase a timed
admission ticket in advance. Tickets are
issued for a specific date and time. There
is no admittance to the Gardens without
a timed admission ticket.
Admission for non-peak times
(Sundays through Fridays from Nov.
24–Dec. 23, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1–6 and
Jan. 8 is $18/adults; $15/seniors ages 62
years and older; $8/students ages 5-to-18
years, or any age with a valid student ID;
and free ages four and younger.
Admission for peak times (Nov. 26,
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and
31 and Jan. 7) is $25/adults; $22/seniors
ages 62 years and older; $11/students
ages 5-to-18 years, or any age with valid
student ID; and free/ages four and under.
Longwood Gardens is located at 1001
Longwood Rd., Kennett Square. For
more information, call 610-388-1000 or
visit www.longwoodgardens.org.
•
‘Yuletide at Winterthur’
The annual “Yuletide at Winterthur”
holiday exhibit this year features “The
Best of Yuletides Past” from Nov. 19Jan. 8.
Visitors will experience Winterthur’s
most beloved holiday displays from past
Yuletides, and discover holiday
traditions of Americans from the colonial
period through World War II. That
includes the introduction of the first
Christmas trees decorated with goodies
for children by Pennsylvania Germans in
the 1800s.
Enjoy special displays recalling du
Pont family holiday traditions and winter
festivities. Be inspired and amazed by an
array of fanciful decorated trees
throughout the tour, including the
magnificent dried-flower tree.
The museum and garden are open
daily (closed Thanksgiving and
Christmas) for Yuletide from 10-5 p.m.
The last tour tickets are sold at 3:15 p.m.
General admission tickets are $18/adult;
$16/seniors 62 years and older and
students with valid ID; $5/ages 2through-11 years; and free/under age
two.
Winterthur is located at 5105 Kennett
Pike (Rt. 52), Winterthur, Del. For more
information, call 1-800-448-3883 or visit
www.winterthur.org.
•
‘Christmas at Hagley’
Be inspired by the lavish Christmas and
Twelfth Night decorations throughout
Eleutherian Mills, the first du Pont family
home in America, during “Christmas at
Hagley” at the Hagley Museum and
Library, Wilmington, Del., from Nov. 25
through Jan. 1.
This year's exhibition draws from
Hagley's extensive collection of lace and
handwork created and used by the du Pont
(Continued on page 24)
‘A Brandywine Christmas’
The Brandywine River Museum, Rt. 1, Chadds Ford, will be all dolled up for
the holidays with a ‘step-in’ dollhouse whose rooms are filled with exquisite
hand-crafted furnishings, a large display of rare antique dolls, its popular Ogauge model train display covering 2,000 feet of track, and thousands of
whimsical ‘critter’ ornaments made from natural materials. All of this will be
on view during the annual ‘A Brandywine Christmas’ celebration from Nov. 25
through Jan. 8. This year marks the debut of Ann Wyeth McCoy's dollhouse,
measuring 8x10 feet and standing 9.5 feet high. While the dollhouse is large
enough for two adults to step inside, the rooms and furnishings are sized for
dolls measuring only 16 to 24 inches. Because of space limitations, visitors
will see the dollhouse, surrounded by re-creations of its rooms, filled with
McCoy's antique dolls and hundreds of miniature furnishings. ‘A Brandywine
Christmas’ also includes a spectacular O-gauge train display, which fills an
entire gallery. As many as five of the 150 locomotives and 300 freight cars in
the collection run simultaneously on more than 2,000 feet of track, winding
past a village, stone quarry, oil refinery, mountains, a Herr Foods plant and
running waterfall, as Santa and his sleigh fly overhead. Also featured are
thousands of adorable ‘critters,’ created from natural materials by
Conservancy volunteers, on view throughout the museum. The Brandywine
River Museum is open daily from 9:30-4:30 p.m., except Christmas Day, with
extended hours until 6 p.m. Dec. 26-30. Admission is $10/adults; $6/seniors
ages 65 and over, students and children over six; and free for children under
six. For more information, call 610-388-2700 or visit the museum's web site at
www.brandywinemuseum.org.
KIDS 24
HOLIDAY CALENDAR
NOVEMBER 2011
‘Tis the ‘Nutcracker’ season
(Continued from page 23)
family in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
In addition, visitors will see elaborate
handmade decorations throughout the
house and property created by the staff and
volunteers from many items grown at
Hagley. The first bus departs from the
visitor center daily at 10 a.m.; the last bus
departs at 3:30 p.m.
Hagley is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to
4:30 p.m. Admission is $11/adults;
$9/students and senior citizens; $4/ages 6to-14 years; and free/under age six. Hagley
is located at 298 Buck Rd. East,
Wilmington, Del. For more information,
call (302) 658-2400 or visit www.hagley
.org.
•
‘Nutcracker’ productions
‘Santa Express’
Take a ride this holiday season with Santa Claus to Glen Mills and back on
West Chester Railroad’s heated, lighted and decorated train. Trains will run
on Nov. 25, 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18, featuring holiday entertainment
and a treat for all children. Trains depart Market Street Station (230 E. Market
St., West Chester) at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Fares are $20/adults; $12.50 for
ages two-to-12 years; and $5 for ages nine months-to-two years (not sitting
on an adult lap). Info: 610-430-2233 or www.westchesterrr.net.
The “Nutcracker Ballet” is based on the
story “The Nutcracker and the King of
Mice,” written by E.T.A. Hoffman.
Although what is presented on stage today
differs in detail from the original story, the
basic plot remains the same,
It’s the story of a young German girl
who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a
fierce battle against a Mouse King with
seven heads. When Marius Petipa had the
idea to choreograph the story into a ballet,
it was actually based on a revision by
French author Alexander Dumas. His
version reflects more of what the world
has come to love as the “Nutcracker
Ballet.”
Here are three area productions being
presented for the holiday season:
• The Brandywine Ballet, West Chester,
presents its 32nd production of “The
Nutcracker” on Dec. 9 at 10 a.m.; Dec. 10,
at noon; Dec. 10 at 4 p.m.; Dec. 11 at 2
p.m., Dec. 15 at 10 a.m.; Dec. 17 at noon
and 4 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. All
shows are at the Emilie K. Asplundh
Concert Hall, West Chester University.
Tickets range from $18 for morning
shows to $25-$40 for afternoon and
evening performances. For tickets, call
610-696-2711 or visit www.brandywine
ballet.com.
• The Chester County Ballet will present
“The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Dec. 17 at
2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec.
18 at 2 p.m. in the West Chester
Henderson High School Auditorium.
Tickets, which range from $9-$30, can
be purchased by calling 610-431-2333.
Group discounts are available.
• The Chester Valley Dance Academy
will present “The Nutcracker” on Saturday,
Dec. 10 at 1 and 5 p.m. at Immaculata
University. Reserved tickets (prior to Dec.
1) are $25/adults and $20/children.
General admission tickets are $18/adults
and $13/children. For ticket information,
call 610-594-2771 or visit www.chester
valleydance.com. Group rates and Girl
Scout packages are available.
•
Whiteland Towne Center
The Whiteland Towne Center, routes 30
and 100, Exton, is giving free horse-drawn
carriage rides around the center with Santa
and Mrs. Claus on Saturdays, Nov. 26,
Dec. 3, Dec. 10, Dec. 17 from 11-2 p.m.
and Dec. 24 from 10-1 p.m.
All riders will receive free hot chocolate
and are urged to bring their cameras.
County farm
offering free
riding program
Venture Farm, 164 Lafayette
Rd., Coatesville, is looking for a
few good equestrians ... or youth
and adults ages nine and older
who would like to participate in a
free horse riding program.
Lynda Smith of Venture Farm
said the program will run in the
fall on Saturdays from 8-2 p.m.,
weather permitting. Space is
limited so interested parties much
register for a time slot.
“Our program reaches out to
children and adults who are
wishing, but not able to experience
the joy that comes with horse
activities and horse ownership,”
said Smith.
“The loving care of all animals,
including horses, requires
responsibility and commitment,”
she said. “We wish to teach good
work ethic and love for animals.”
Smith said the program is free
to riders as long as they are
committed, dedicated and display
a willingness to work and learn
with others. Smith said she plans
to continue the program in the
spring.
For more information, or to sign
up for a time, call 610-383-4738.
mp
se
CALENDAR
NOVEMBER 2011
NOV. 18
“Little Sprouts: Animal Tales,”
presented by Green Valleys Association.
Phoenixville Area Library, 183 Second Ave.
9:30-10:30 a.m. Little ones and their
parents can learn about nature together
through interactive nature stories, animal
artifacts, and a take-home craft. For ages
3-to-5 with adult. Free. Registration not
required, but space is limited. Info: 610469-8646.
NOV. 6
“Pirate Adventure Family Day.”
Brandywine River Museum, Rt. 1, Chadds
Ford. 11:30 a.m. Create pirate hats and
look for hidden treasure throughout the
special exhibition “N.C. Wyeth’s Treasure
Island, Classic Illustrations for a Classic
Tale.” The Disney animated film “Treasure
Planet” will be shown at 1:30 p.m. Free
admission until noon. Regular admission:
$10/adults; $6/ seniors ages 65 and older,
students and children ages 6-to-12 years;
free/under six. Info: 610-388-2700 or visit
www.brandywinemuseum.org.
NOV. 22, 23
“Kinder Nature Class: Eye See You.”
Green Valleys Association at Welkinweir
Arboretum, 1368 Prizer Rd., Pottstown.
Tuesday 12:30-1:45 p.m. for 3-to-5-yearolds; Wednesday 12:30-1:15 p.m. for 2and-3-year-olds. Class includes ageappropriate activities based on the
theme, including a nature discovery walk,
story, craft and other activities. Snack
included. $6/members; $8/non-members
(fee for child only). Advanced registration
required. Info/registration: 610-469-8646
or [email protected].
NOV. 6, 13, 20
“Foliage Express.” West Chester
Railroad, 230 E. Market St. Trains depart at
noon and 2 p.m. See the Upper Chester
Creek Valley in its fall splendor and color.
$12.50/adults; $10.50/ages 2-to-12 years.
Info: 610-430-2233. Web site:
www.westchesterrr.net.
NOV. 7
2011 College Fair, sponsored by the
Chester County Intermediate Unit. Exton
Square, 260 Exton Square Parkway. 5:30-8
p.m. Representatives from more than 200
universities, colleges and institutions will
be present to hand out literature and
answer questions. Free. Info:
www.cciu.org/college fair.
NOV. 8, 9
“Fall Colors.” Green Valleys Association
at Welkinweir Arboretum, 1368 Prizer Rd.,
Pottstown. Tuesday 12:30-1:45 p.m. for 3to-5-year-olds; Wednesday 12:30-1:15
p.m. for 2-to-3-year-olds. Class includes
age-appropriate activities based on the
theme, including a nature discovery walk,
story, craft, and other activities. Snack
included. $6/members; $8/non-members
(fee for child only). Advanced registration
required. Info/registration: 610-469-8646
or [email protected].
NOV. 9
Open house. Fairville Friends School,
216 Pond View, Chadds Ford. 9 a.m.
Preschool programs center around the
Quaker values of simplicity, community,
integrity, equality, peace and stewardship.
Info: 610-388-1268. Web site: www.
fairvillefriends.org.
NOV. 9, 16, 23
“Ms. Becky’s Mother Goose.” Easttown
Library and Information Center, 720 First
Ave., Berwyn. 10:15 a.m. Join Ms. Becky
for a traditional romp through well loved
Mother Goose nursery rhymes, stories and
songs. Program appropriate for all ages.
Parents must accompany children under
11 years of age. Info: 610-644-0138,
[email protected] or www.easttown
library.org.
NOV. 11
Open house. Grove Preschool, 490 W.
Boot Rd., West Chester. 6-7:30 p.m. Tour
the school, which was established in
1968, and meet the director and the
teachers. Info/RSVP: 610-696-8107 or email [email protected]. Web
site: www.grovechurch.org.
•
“Little Sprouts: Super Senses,”
presented by Green Valleys Association.
Phoenixville Area Library, 183 Second
Ave., Phoenixville. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Little
ones and their parents can learn about
nature together through interactive nature
stories, animal artifacts and a take-home
craft. For ages 3-to-5 years with adult.
Free. Registration not required, but space
KIDS 25
NOV. 26
“Patriots Day.” Brandywine Battlefield
Park, Rt. 1, Chadds Ford. 10-4 p.m. Step
back in time to see a small British outpost,
Redcoats and royal artillery encamped
during the winter of 1777. Also,
demonstrations in colonial baking,
blacksmithing and open fire cooking. Info:
610-459-3342, ext. 3003.
Open house
Windsor Christian Preschool and Kindergarten, 213 Little Conestoga Rd.,
Uwchland, will host an open house on Thursday and Friday, Nov. 10-11 from
9:30-11 a.m. Visitors can take a tour of the facilities and observe a class in
session. Windsor offers morning and afternoon classes for ages 2 1/2-to-5years, enrichment days and Lunch Bunch. Students above are participating
in the preschool’s annual harvest festival. For more information on the
preschool, call 610-458-0339 or visit www.windsorcp.org; for more
information on kindergarten, call 610-458-7177 or visit www.windsorca.org.
is limited. Info: 610-469-8646.
NOV. 12
“Walk a Mile in Their Shoes.” Grace
Bible Church, 111 Lloyd Ave.,
Downingtown, and VFW Post 845, 4601 W.
Lincoln Hwy., Downingtown. 8:30 a.m.
registration begins at Grace Church; 10:30
a.m. 5K race begins at Grace Church and
one-mile walk/fun run begins at VFW.
Activities: kids physical training with the
Pennsylvania National Guard, face
painting, field games, food, and music by
School of Rock and High Ground
Entertainment at the VFW Post 845.
Awards given to the top overall male and
female runners and first-, second- and
third-place winners in every age category.
$20/adult advanced registration ($25 day
of race); $10/child 5K runner, one-mile
walk/kids fun run. Proceeds benefit
Veteran Community Farms, Chester Springs.
Info: www.veterancommunityfarms.org.
•
“300 Years of Baking in Pennsylvania.”
The Mill at Anselma, 1730 Conestoga Rd.
(Rt. 401), Chester Springs. 10-4 p.m.
Watch wheat being ground into flour and
help with sifting out the bran and germ to
achieve the fine powder. After a tour of
the mill, take part in demonstrations of
baking from the 18th, 19th and 21st
centuries and taste treats baked with
Anselma’s own flour. $5/adults; $4/seniors
60 years and older; $3/ages 4-to-17 years;
free/under age four. Info: 610-827-1906
or [email protected]. Web site:
www.anselmamill.org.
NOV. 14
“Little Sprouts: Nature’s Colors,”
presented by Green Valleys Association.
Henrietta Hankin Library, 215 Windgate
Dr., Chester Springs. 11:15 a.m.-noon.
Little ones and their parents can learn
about nature together through an
interactive nature story, animal artifacts,
and a take-home craft. For ages 3-to-5
years with adult. Free. Advanced, online
registration required by 11 a.m. day of
program. Info/registration: 610-321-1724
or www.ccls.org.
NOV. 15, 16
“All Ears!” Green Valleys Association at
Welkinweir Arboretum, 1368 Prizer Rd.,
Pottstown. Tuesday 12:30-1:45 p.m. for 3to-5-year-olds; Wednesday 12:30-1:15 for
2-to-3-year-olds. Class includes ageappropriate activities based on the
theme, including a nature discovery walk,
story, craft and other activities. Snack.
included. For ages 3-to-5 years with adult.
$6/members; $8/ non-members (fee for
child only). Advanced registration
required. Info/registration 610-469-8646
or [email protected].
NOV. 26, 27, DEC. 3-4
JAN. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22
“Annual Model Railroad Open House.”
Schuylkill Valley Model Railroad Club, 400
S. Main St., Phoenixville. 1-5 p.m. See
freight and passenger car trains rumble
over 700 feet of track, over high trestle
bridges, through towns, around
mountains and through tunnels along the
right of way from Reading to Philadelphia.
Numerous buttons allow visitors to bring
scenes to life. Free; donations accepted.
Info: 610-935-1126, svmodelrailroadclub
@yahoo.com. Web site: www.svmrrc.com.
ONGOING
“Paws for Reading.” Parkesburg Library,
105 West St. Tuesdays 5-6 p.m. Program
allows children to read aloud individually
to a trained dog in order to improve
reading and communication skills. Children
must register for one of the four 15minute sessions. Bring a book of your
choice or pick one from the library.
Parents/caregivers are asked to stay in the
library, but not in the reading area.
Info/registration: 610-857-5165.
•
“Bugs ... Outside the Box: Discover
the Art Within the Science.” The
Academy of Natural Science, 1900
Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia.
Monday-Friday 10-4:30 p.m.; SaturdaySunday 10-5 p.m. Making its world
premiere, the exhibit features an array of
enormous and scientifically accurate insect
sculptures by Italian artist Lorenzo
Possenti. Paired with live insects and
colorful specimens from the academy’s
world-renowned invertebrate collection,
“Bugs” provides a rarely seen look at these
amazing creatures. $12/adults; $10/ages 3to-12 years, seniors, college students and
military personnel; free/under age three.
Through Jan. 16. Info: (215) 299-1000.
Web site: www.ansp.org.
(Calendar items should be submitted
via e-mail to [email protected].
December’s deadline is Nov. 15.)
KIDS 26
La Leche League
La Leche League meetings in Chester
County: Helping mothers to breastfeed through
mother-to-mother support, encouragement,
information and education. Info: beanmom.com
/laleche.
•
Downingtown La Leche League meets
Tuesday, Dec. 20. Messiah Lutheran Church, 46
W. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown. 7:30 p.m.
Fathers, mothers-to-be and nursing mothers,
and their babies, welcome. Info: 610-585-5541.
•
Exton-Lionville La Leche League meets
Wednesday, Dec. 14. Exton Community Baptist
Church office building, 114 E. Swedesford Rd.,
Exton. 7:30 p.m. Expecting and nursing mothers,
and their babies, welcome. Info: 610-363-6206.
•
Kimberton La Leche League meets Tuesday,
Dec. 6. Centennial Evangelical Lutheran Church,
1330 Hares Hill Rd., Kimberton. 9:30 a.m. Topics:
Extended nursing, benefits and challenges,
loving guidance and gentle discipline, toddler
safety and tips. Expecting and nursing mothers,
and their babies, welcome. Info: 610-321-0319.
•
La Leche League of Glenmoore-Elverson
meets Monday, Dec. 19. Forks of the Brandywine
Presbyterian Church, Rt. 322, Glenmoore. 10
a.m. Topic: “Nutrition and Weaning.” Expecting
and nursing mothers, and their babies,
welcome. Info: 610-321-0319.
•
La Leche League of Southern Chester County
meets Wednesday, Dec. 21. Avondale
Presbyterian Church, 420 Pennsylvania Ave.,
Avondale. 9:45 a.m. Expecting and nursing
mothers, and their babies, welcome. Info: 610869-4845 or 610-925-3939.
•
La Leche League of West Chester will meet
Wednesday, Dec. 21. Room 240, West Chester
Borough Building, 401 E. Gay St., West Chester.
9:30 a.m. Expecting and nursing mothers, and
their babies, welcome. Info: 484-883-0572.
FOR MOMS
Presbyterian Church. 10:30-noon. Info: 610-3808917.
•
MOMS Club of Jennersville meets on the
second Monday each month. 9:30 a.m. Open to
moms in London Grove, New London and Penn
townships and West Grove Borough. Info: moms.
[email protected].
•
MOMS Club of Kennett Square meets on the
-second Thursday each month. 10 a.m. Children
welcome. Info: [email protected].
•
MOMS Club of Landenberg meets on the
second Tuesday each month. West Grove United
Methodist Church, 300 N. Guernsey Rd., West
Grove. 9:30 a.m. Moms and kids welcome. Info:
momscluboflandenberg. E-mail: moms.lberg
@gmail.com.
•
MOMS Club of Lionville meets on the third
Monday each month. 10 a.m. All at-home moms
and their children in the Lionville Elementary
School boundaries of Downingtown Area School
District are welcome. E-mail: lionvillemomsclub
@gmail.com
part-time working mothers and their children.
Info: 495-5380, or phoenixvilleMOMSclub
@yahoo.com.
•
MOMS Club of Pickering Valley meets on the
first Monday each month. Henrietta Hankin
Library Community Room, 215 Windgate Drive,
Chester Springs. 9:45 a.m. All at-home mothers
in the Pickering Valley and Shamona Creek
elementary schools’ areas of Downingtown Area
School District welcome. Info: 610-996-5886.
Web site: momsclubpv.webs.com. E-mail moms
[email protected].
•
MOMS Club of Thornbury meets on the last
Tuesday each month. 9:45 a.m. All mothers and
children welcome. Babysitting available.
Info/location: 610-399-8194.
•
MOMS Club of Twin Valley meets on the
fourth Monday each month. 10 a.m. Village
Library, Morgantown. All at-home mothers in the
Morgantown and Honey Brook areas of Twin
Valley School District welcome. Info: 610-2731040.
•
•
MOMS Club of New London meets on the
second Tuesday each month. New London
Presbyterian Church, Rt. 896. 9:30-11:30 a.m.
For mothers in the Oxford, Nottingham and
Lincoln University areas. Info: 610-998-1296, or
[email protected].
•
MOMS Club of Octorara Area meets on the
third Thursday each month. 9:30 a.m. Support
group for stay-at-home mothers in the Octorara
Area and Pequea Valley school districts. Meeting
location info: 484-712-5622, or momsclubof
octorara.club.officelive.com. E-mail: MCOAboard
@gmail.com.
•
MOMS Club of Oxford meets on the first
Friday each month. Oxford Library, 48 S. Second
St., Oxford. 10:30 a.m.-noon. For mothers in the
Oxford, Nottingham and Lincoln University areas
of Oxford Area School District. E-mail: oxford
[email protected].
•
MOMS Club of Phoenixville/East Pikeland
meets on the first Wednesday each month.
Support group serves stay-at-home mothers,
MOMS Club of Uwchlan Hills meets on the
first Monday each month. 10 a.m. St. Paul’s
United Church of Christ, 101 Worthington Rd.,
Exton. There is no general meeting in August. All
moms with children in Uwchlan Hills Elementary
School, Downingtown, welcome. Info: 610-5183397. Web site: www.momsclub.org.
•
MOMS Club of Valley Forge-Phoenixville
East meets on the third Friday each month. First
Presbyterian Church, Main and Morgan streets,
Phoenixville. 9:30 a.m. All mothers and children
welcome. Info: 610-917-3973.
•
MOMS Club of Spring City/Vincent meets on
the first Friday each month 10 a.m. All mothers
and their children living in the areas served by
East Vincent, West Vincent and French Creek
elementary schools, and East Coventry
elementary residents with 19475 or 19457 zip
codes are welcome. E-mail: momsclubofscv
@yahoo.com. Web site: www.momsclub-spring
city.info
•
MOMS Club of West Chester-East usually
meets on the third Thursday each month.
MOMS Club
MOMS Clubs of Chester County. Info on any
of the 18 chapters in the county: momsclub
@aol.com.
•
MOMS Club of Chadds Ford meets on the last
Wednesday each month. Brandywine Baptist
Church, Baltimore Pike (Rt. 1), Chadds Ford.
9:30 a.m. All mothers and children living in
Unionville-Chadds Ford School District welcome
(babysitting available). Info: Nicole@cfmoms
[email protected].
•
MOMS Club of Coatesville meets on the third
Thursday each month. Lutheran Church of the
Good Shepherd, 17th Avenue, Coatesville. 9:30
a.m. All at-home mothers and their children
welcome to attend two meetings for free before
deciding to join. Info: mcofcoatesville@yahoo.
com or momsclubofcoatesvillepa.com
•
MOMS Club of Downingtown (East Ward,
Bradford Heights, West Bradford and Beaver
Creek elementary schools) meets on the second
Tuesday each month. 10 a.m. Stay-at-home
moms and their children welcome. Meeting
location info: [email protected].
•
MOMS Club of East BrandywineDowningtown meeting on the third Tuesday
each month. Wallace Township Building, 1250
Creek Rd., Glenmoore. 9:30-11 a.m. Support
group for stay-at-home moms and their children
in Brandywine-Wallace elementary school
attendance area in Downingtown. Info: 484228-8070. E-mail: eastbrandywinemomsclub
@yahoo.com.
•
MOMS Club of Exton East meets on the
fourth Wednesday each month. 10 a.m. Support
group for stay-at-home moms and their children.
Info: 610-350-8348. E-mail: momsclubextoneast
@yahoo.com.
•
MOMS Club of Exton West. Support group
for stay-at-home moms and their children in
Mary C. Howse Elementary School attendance
area in West Chester. For meeting times and
more information, e-mail: extonwestmomsclub
@gmail.com.
•
MOMS Club of Great Valley meets on the
third Thursday each month. Malvern United
Methodist Church, 16 Monument Ave. 10 a.m.
Info: 610-889-9911.
•
MOMS Club of Honey Brook meets on the
fourth Thursday each month. Honey Brook
NOVEMBER 2011
Meeting days and locations may change from
month to month. 9:30 a.m. All mothers and
children residing in the 19382 zip code area
welcome. Info: 610-696-2378 or momsclubwce
@yahoo.com.
•
MOMS Club of West Chester-West meets on
the third Wednesday of the month. Meeting
days and locations may change from month to
month. 10 a.m. All mothers and children
residing in 19380 zip code area welcome. Info:
610-436-4899 or [email protected].
Others
Preemie Parent Support Group. A free
support group for parents of pre-term babies
currently in the NCIU or at home meets on the
fourth Thursday each month. 6:30-8 p.m.
Meeting room Henrietta Hankin Library, 215
Windgate Dr., Chester Springs. Info: Melissa
Anstine at 610-7150-5253. E-mail Support@
ThePreemieLife.com.
•
Mothers of Preschoolers in the
Downingtown area meets on the first and third
Wednesday of each month. 9:15-11:15 a.m.
Calvary Fellowship Church, 95 W. Devon Dr.,
Downingtown. All mothers of children newborn
to kindergarten age are welcome. Info: 610363-7171, or hdelgrande@calvary-fellowship
.org.
•
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) in southern
Chester County. Cornerstone Presbyterian
Church, Route 896 and Gypsy Hill Road near
Route 841. Info: 610-345-0498. Web site:
cornerstonepca.com.
•
Chester County/Main Line chapter of
Mothers & More meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first
Wednesday of each month. Upper Main Line
YMCA Carriage House, 1416 Berwyn-Paoli Road,
Berwyn. At the Nov. 2 meeting, “Navigating
Election Day” will be the topic of a program
presented by Joan Bergquist of the Chester
County League of Women Voters. Info: 610-5584452. Web site: mainlinemothersandmore.com.
E-mail: [email protected].
•
PHACT (Parents Having Allergic Children
Team) provides support, information and
awareness for Chester County area families and
their children who have food allergies. New
members are welcome. Web site: WorkNotes.
com/PA/ChesterCo/PHACT. E-mail: ParentsHaving
[email protected].
•
Nursing Mothers of Southern Chester
County meets on the third Tuesday each month.
West Grove Presbyterian Church, W. Evergreen
Street. 7 p.m. Expecting and nursing mothers
and their babies welcome. Info: 610-255-5223.
•
West Chester Nursing Mothers, a
breastfeeding support group, meets on the first
Thursday each month. United Church of Christ,
Rt. 352 and Greenhill Road, East Goshen. 10
a.m. Parents, babies and children welcome. Info:
610-429-0640.
•
Nursing Mothers of Wayne-Paoli-King of
Prussia and surrounding areas meets on the
fourth Thursday each month. St. Luke’s Lutheran
Church, Valley Forge and Conestoga roads,
Devon. Enjoy the company of other nursing and
pregnant moms. Info: 610-225-3734. Web site:
www.nursingmothersalliance.org.
•
The Chester County Mothers of Multiples
Club meets on the third Thursday each month,
except in December and June. Downingtown
Area Senior Center, Ashbridge Commons, 983 E.
Lancaster Ave., Downingtown. 7 p.m. All
mothers of multiples and those expecting
multiples welcome. Info: 610-942-3452. Web
site: www. ccmomc.org. E-mail: themarkerts@
gmail.com.
•
Following Adoption: A Support Group for
Parents. Group meets each month in West
Chester to discuss issues concerning school,
discipline, behavior problems, and attachment.
Info: 610-255-3664. E-mail: info@following
adoption.com. Web site: www.following
adoption.com.
•
Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 6:30 p.m.
every Thursday. Thorndale United Methodist
Church, 3503 Lincoln Highway, Thorndale. Help
for anyone looking to stop drinking. Recovery
program for alcoholism. Info: 610-384-2433.
•
Food Allergy Support Group for UnionvilleChadds Ford area parents. Ask questions and
share ideas with others dealing with the
complexities of food allergies in their children.
E-mail: Kelli at [email protected].
NOVEMBER 2011
SPECIAL NOTE
FREE E-NEWSLETTER, published weekly by Casey
Jones of Transformation Initiative – Building Communities
Through Healthy Families. Helping to Bridge the Gap Between
the Wealth of Available Resources and the Poverty Associated
with People Not Knowing about Them. An incredibly
comprehensive listing of primarily free family services-related
trainings and conferences and fun family events occurring
throughout Chester County. Can be found on The ARC’s web
site. You may also sign up for this regularly published
invaluable information. Web: www.arcofchestercounty.org/
arconnections.html. Subscribe by sending an e-mail request to
[email protected].
THE ARC of the UNITED STATES and THE AUTISM
SOCIETY’S NATIONAL AUTISM RESOURCE and
INFORMATION CENTER: “Autism Now, You Empowered.”
Web site: www.autismnow.org
ABBLES CLASSROOM has three openings for two-yearolds. Autism Building the Basics through Learning Experiences
for two-year-olds. Year-round program; Tuesday and Thursday
mornings. Info/sign-up: Kathy Fox at 610-696-8090.
VALUABLE IEP RESOURCES:
• IEP applications: http://techinspecialed.com/2011/08/04/
technology-in-education-apps-by-goal/ .
• IEP GOAL BANK – www.bridges4kids.org/IEP/iep.goal.
bank.pdf
CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS
PARENT SERIES – TRANSITION. Through May 30, 2012.
6-8 p.m. Wondering what it is like after high school? Parents
of students who have graduated will share their experience
with navigating the agencies, support with transition from high
school to adult life. Sponsored by the Chester County
Intermediate unit and Residential Living Options. Workshop
with network opportunities and outside speakers pertaining to
transitioning to adult life. Negotiating adult disability services,
transportation, housing options and planning, safety and
security, working after graduation. Seating limited; sign up at
www.cciu.org, [email protected], or 484-237-5041.
PARENT LEARNING SERIES on SUPPORTING
CHILDREN who LEARN DIFFERENTLY. Oct. 19-March 21.
Valley Forge Educational Services, 1777 N. Valley Rd., Paoli.
6-8 p.m. Attend one or all sessions. Nov. 16 — “Organizing for
Learning;” Jan. 18 —“Paying Attention!;” Feb. 15 — “Learning
and Self-Esteem;” March 21 — “Building Home-School
Alliances.” $25 each or $100 for all five workshops. Register:
www.vfes.net.
CHILDREN with VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS. Nov. 5. Warwick
Child Care Center Administration Building, 300 N. Pottstown
Pike, Suite 260, Exton.9-noon. Explore characteristics and
teaching strategies for children with visual impairments.
Offered by Delaware County Community College. $10. Must
register prior to attendance. Info/registation: Andrea Vaughn at
484-237-6245.
FIRST EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA INCLUSION
CONFERENCE. Nov. 6-8. Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at
Penn’s Landing. Topic: “Inclusive Practices – It’s More Than
Access.” Hosted by Pennsylvania’s Education for All
Coalition. Keynotes: Norman Kunc and Keith Jones. Info:
www.paedforall.org.
“AUTISM – SPECTUM KIDS CAN!” Nov. 6. Annex of the
Henrietta Hankin Branch Library, 215 Windgate Dr., Chester
Springs. 2-4 p.m. A place where your children can play with
peers and use and improve their socialization skills with
support group for parents. All ages welcome. Info: 610-3211724
PARENTING: THE LIFE SKILLS EDUCATION UNIT
presents a free, six-weekparenting workshop. Nov. 7 through
Dec. 12. Government Services Building, 601 Westtown Rd,
West Chester. 6-7:30 p.m. Topics include child development,
discipline, behavior management techniques, etc.
Info/registration: Diane Toaltoan at 610-344-5730, or
[email protected].
MH RECOVERY-BASED SPIRITUALITY RETREAT, cosponsored by Compeer, CSP and Temenos. Nov. 9. Temenos
Retreat Center, West Chester. 10-2 p.m. Program, not about
religion only, is for any man or woman engaged in MH
recovery and seeking to discover new spiritual practices. Led
by Bob Manrodt, a peer in MH recovery from Reading.
$2/registration. Advance reservations required.
Info/registration: Compeer at 610-436-4445 or compeer
[email protected]. Web site: www.temenosretreat.org.
CHESTER COUNTY RIGHT to EDUCATION TASK
FORCE. Nov. 10. Chester County Intermediate Unit, 455 Boot
Rd., Downingtown. 10-noon. Topic: “Measurable Progress,”
with a panel of experts. Bring your questions. Get involved
and improve your skills as an advocate. Info/activity or
schedule/resource manual: www.righttoed.org, LaurenL@
cciu.org, 484-237-5057, or voicemail at 610-696-8090, ext.
348. The task force monitors and advises local special
education services, provides training and networking
opportunities for parents, and informs the public about state
and national special education issues. Time is set aside at
every meeting to address individual concerns. All welcome.
Registration preferred but not necessary. Same training
offered at The ARC of Chester County on Nov. 17.
OPPORTUNITIES for ENHANCING COMMUNICATION
and COLLABORATION between CHILD WELFARE and
EDUCATION PROFESSIONALS. Nov. 10. Webinar from 1011:30 a.m. Info/regis: http://homeless.center-school.org/
index.cfm?pageid=2800.
“CHILD DEVELOPMENT.” Nov. 10. The ARC of Chester
County, West Chester. 6-8 p.m. Sponsored by the Chester
County LICC. Babysitting available. Registration required.
Info: 610-873-3990.
“INTERVENTION NOT INCARCERATION: SUPPORTING
our YOUTH with EMOTIONAL and BEHAVIORAL
CHALLENGES.” Nov. 11-12. Arcadia University, King of
Prussia Campus. 8:45-3 p.m. Sponsored by Arcadia’s BBEST
Program, the Black Male Development Symposium and the
Devereux Center for Effective Schools. Fee. Info/registration:
www.arcadia.edu/EBDconference.
SPECIAL NEEDS
“PATHWAYS to INDEPENDENCE for YOUNG ADULTS
with ASD.” Nov. 11. White Manor Country Club, Malvern.
8:30-4 p.m. For individuals with ASD who are transitioning to
adulthood and for professionals working in this field. Learn
about post-secondary education options, how to evaluate
them, how to transition to employment, ways to improve
organization, time management, metacognition, selfregulation, and other executive function skills. Keynote: Dr.
Stephen Shore. Cost $65. Ascend group is offering needbased scholarships. Info/registration Julie at 267-426-4903,
[email protected], or www.centerforautismresearch
.com.
“MEDICAID, EDUCATION and THE LAW,” sponsored
and presented by the Institute for Behavior Change. Nov. 11.
Wyndham Garden Hotel, Exton. All day. $75. Info/registration:
www.ibc-pa.org
”CHILDREN with PHYSICAL DISABILITIES and
HEALTH IMPAIRMENTS.” Nov. 12. Warwick Child Care
Center Administration Building, 300 N. Pottstown Pike, Suite
260, Exton. 9-noon. Explore the characteristics and teaching
strategies for children with physical disabilities and health
impairments. Offered by Delaware County Community College.
$10. Must register prior to attendance. Info/registration:
Andrea Vaughn at 484-237-6245.
NATIONAL SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVOCACY
TRAININGS, presented by the National Special Education
Advocacy Institute and the National Center for Autism
Resources and Education. Nov. 12-Nov. 19. The ARC of
Chester County, West Chester. 9-4 p.m. Developed by Marie
Lewis, RN, PhD. Seminars can be taken individually or as a
series for the BCEA (Board Certified Educational Advocate)
designation. Topics: Nov. 12 — “Autism Case Management;”
and Nov. 19 “Individual and Systems Advocacy.”
Comprehensive course outline is posted at www.autism
nationalresources.org. CLEs, Act 48 credits and other CEU
credits offered. Registration information available at
Cost: Pay what you can. Info/registration: www.pilcop.org.
“MEASURABLE PROGRESS.” Nov. 17. The ARC of
Chester County, West Chester. 7-9 p.m. Facilitator: Dr. Kelly
Barton, education consultant. Sponsored by the Chester
County Right to Education Task Force, The ARC and The
West Chester Area School District Support Group. Get
involved and improve your skills as an advocate. Info/activity
or schedule/resource manual: www.righttoed.org,
[email protected], 484-237-5057, or voicemail at 610-6968090, ext. 348. The task force monitors and advises local
special education services, provides training and networking
opportunities for parents and informs the public about state
and national special education issues. Time is set aside at
every meeting to address individual concerns. All welcome. No
need to register for this meeting. Same training offered at the
Chester County Intermediate Unit on Nov. 10.
CHESTER COUNTY LICC MEETING focuses on
programs and services for ages birth-to-five year-olds. Nov.
17. Chester County Intermediate Unit, 455 Boot Rd.,
Downingtown. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Registration not required but
appreciated. Info: 610-873-3990.
“CHILDREN with ADD or ADHD.” Nov. 19. Warwick Child
Care Center Administration Building, 300 N. Pottstown Pike,
Suite 260, Exton. Explore characteristics and teaching
Therapeutic Services, Inc.
Located in the West Chester/Marshallton area, we are a non-profit pediatric
therapy program for children with special needs.
Our programs include:
Hippotherapy — Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists use the horse as a
tool to achieve therapy goals in children from the age of 2 years old.
Therapeutic Riding — Instructors teach adapted riding skills.
Equestrian Special Olympics — Children experience the thrill of training and
competing in horse shows.
Early Intervention Program — Therapists and other support services work with
families and caregivers to enhance the growth and acquisition of skills of children
with special needs aged birth to three.
H WE NOW OFFER A NEW EQUESTRIAN THERAPEUTIC VAULTING PROGRAM H
Candidates for this program include children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida,
down syndrome, traumatic brain injury, sensory integration dysfunction,
autism/PDD, developmental delays, and learning disabilities.
Cost for therapy services is covered under most medical insurance plans.
For more information please call Sandra McCloskey, P.T., HPCS at 610-692-6362
Quest Therapeutic is a 501c3 non-profit organization
Donations, volunteers and fund-raising opportunities are always welcome.
461 Cann Road, West Chester
610-692-6362 • www.QuestTherapeutic.com
DOWNINGTOWN AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL
EDUCATION PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING. Nov. 14
DASD Administration Building, 540 Trestle Place,
Downingtown, Room B. 7-8 p.m. Speaker: Maria Kreiter,
director of professional development and outreach at Valley
Forge Educational Services, Paoli. Kreiter's “Understanding
Aconyms” will take the mystery out of special education
services. Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group
/dasdspecialedsupport, Group e-mail address: dasdspecialed
[email protected]. Next meeting: Jan. 9.
“COMMUNICATION, SELF-DETERMINATION and
COMMUNITY: AAC STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT
TRANSITION.” Nov. 14. Temple University Student Center,
1755 N. 13th St., Philadelphia. 1:30-4 p.m. Facilitator: Dr.
David McNaughton. A social and networking evening for AAC
and AT professionals follows the presentation. Info/registration:
[email protected].
“MEDICATION MANAGEMENT for ADHD and COOCCURING CONDITIONS.” Nov. 15. Kesher Israel
Congregation, West Chester. 7-9 p.m. Facilitator: Dr. Inge
Damstra, child psychiatrist. Learn about the latest medications
for ADHD and co-occuring conditions such as depression and
anxiety. Ask questions about the use of medications in
managing ADHD. All welcome. Info: http://www.chadd.net/
template.cfm?affid=222&p=about.
“BULLYING and INCLUSION: INTEGRATING
STUDENTS with DISABILITES in a SAFE and FRIENDLY
ENVIRONMENT.” Nov. 15 from noon-4 p.m. Explore the
concept of inclusion with a focus on how to avoid and deal
with bullying. See a short film about Pennhurst and hear the
history of inclusion in Pennsylvania. An inclusion expert will
join Sonja Kerr to talk about the nuts and bolts of inclusion.
“FORECLOSURE CONSULTATIONS,” offered by
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Delaware County Info:
800-989-2227, or www.cccsdv.org.
ADHD CHADD ONLINE PARENT TRAINING
CONFERENCES: www.CHADD.org/Content/CHADD/
Conferences_Training/ParenttoParentProgram/Online_Parent_
to_Parent_Class/.
ASCEND EVENTS: www.ascendgroup.org/.
CHADD AD/HD TRAININGS: Local — www.chadd.org/
222.
CHESTER COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT COURSES:
www.cciu.org and click “courses.”
DPW OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAMS
(PUNS, Consolidated Waiver, IFSP, etc):Web site:
www.odpconsulting .net/. Web casts: www.
odpconsulting.net/index.php?option
=com_content&task=view&id=163&Itemid=223.
NAMI MH EVENTS: namipa.nami.org/programs index.htm.
LEARNING DISABILITIES ASSOCIATION of
PENNSYLVANIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE: “FACING the
CHALLENGES 2011.” Nov. 18-19. Friday: APD or ADHD or
Both: Identification and management Issues in School-Aged
Children with Maxine Young, AuD, CCC-A/SLP. Saturday
Keynote – “The Future’s So Bright – Forget the Shades”, with
Lisa Dicker, PhD. Also Behavioral Support Planning, FBA’s,
Evaluations, Learning Disabilities, Accommmodations,
Paraeducators in the Classroom, Asperger’s Syndroime,
ADHD Prospectives, School Bullying, Dyslexia.
Info/registration: www.LDAPA.ORG.
QUEST
www.arcofchestercounty.org/seat.html. There is a fee for this
series of workshops. Call Connie 610-696-8090, ext. 220.
KIDS 27
strategies for children with ADD or ADHD. Offered by
Delaware County Community College. $10. Must register prior
to attendance. Info/registraton: Andrea Vaughn at 484-2376245.
“WORK INCENTIVE and BENEFITS MANAGEMENT
PLANNNING.” Nov. 21. Valley Forge Education
Center/Cafeteria, 1777 N. Valley Rd., Paoli. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Learn about how employment affects SSDI and SSI benefits
— a talk for young people with disabilities anad their families.
Are you or a family member unsure how employment income
will affect SSI or SSDI benefits? Are you graduating from high
school and need to understand how work may affect your
benefits? Untangle the myths and misconceptions about
earned income and Social Security benefits eligibility and
continuation. Work incentive counseling helps individuals
understand how work impacts Social Security benefits and
assists them in maximizing federal and state work incentives.
Free. Info: 610-296-6725, ext. 342. Web site: www.vfes.net.
“DIVORCE: CHILDREN in the MIDDLE,” a skill-based
program to help middle school youth and their parents
minimize a child’s negative reaction to divorce. Ongoing. CIM
aims to reduce the parental conflict, loyalty pressures and
communication problems that can place significant stress on
children. Holcomb Behavioral Health Info/registration: Chrissie
at 484-444-0412, [email protected], or Luis
(bilingual) at [email protected].
“PARENTING WISELY.” Two-session program available in
two versions, for parents of young children (3-to-8 years) and
adolescents 10-to-18 years. Ongoing. PW provides multiple
solutions to common problem behaviors and critiques effective
and ineffective parenting methods. Holcomb Behavioral
Health. Info/registration: Chrissie 484-444-0412, cdziembo@
holcombbhs.org, or Luis (bilingual) at LBenites2@holcombbhs
.org.
PATTAN TRAININGS: www.pattan.net/profdev/training
calendar.aspx.
ACTIVITIES, SUPPORTS
for CHILDREN & TEENS
ACADEMIC SUPPORT ON THE WEB:
www.softschools.com: online work and worksheets, Pre-K
to middle school.
www.onlinemathlearning.com: worksheets with concepts
and explanations.
www.hawii.edu/suremath: chemistry, physics and algebra.
www.starfall.com: excellent web site for young (up to
fourth grade) emerging readers.
www.webmath.com
www.funbrain.com: games to improve grammar skills.
www.eduplace.com/tales: like an online Mad Libs with
reading and writing skills.
www.factmonster.com: lots of great stuff.
www.cut-the-knot.org: puzzles on tons of math topics up to
12th grade.
www.mathgoodies.com: go to parents and find free
activities and worksheets.
www.aaamath.com; www.aaaspelling.com; www.aaawhere
.com: all online work.
www.quizlet.com: Make tests and flashcards for any
subject.
ACADEMICS. School-based academic support program
for ages 14-to-18 years. Call Coatesville Rotary at 610-3849196.
ACTING/DRAMA for 8-to-13-year-olds on the autism
spectrum. Six-week program improves communication,
socialization and motivation by having fun with drama and
theater. 10-noon. $160. Info: Kate McLenigan Altman at 610283-2230, or [email protected].
“ACTING ANTICS.” Drama workshops are designed for
students with Asperger Syndrome, nonverbal learning
disorders and/or social cognition deficits. Theater teaches the
power of body language, voice modulation and facial
expressions. Info: Cindy Schneider, education consultant and
theater director, at 610-913-6018.
AD/HD CHADD TEEN SUPPORT GROUP meets the third
Thursday each month. Exton Community Baptist Church. 7:308:30 p.m. Parents can stay on premises. Facilitated by
CHADD board member. Info: 610-429-4060 or
www.CHADD.net/222.
AD/HD GO GIRLS CLUB for girls ages 8-to-12 years (or
in third to sixth grade) with ADD or ADHD. Girls must be
aware of their diagnosis. $100 for six-month registration. Info:
Natalie Knochenhauer at 215-275-4978, info@ ahdhaware.org,
or ADHDAAware.org.
AD/HD BOY2BOY CLUB for boys ages 8-to- 12 years (or
in third to sixth grade) with ADD or ADHD. Boys must be
aware of their diagnosis. $100 for six-month registration. Info:
Natalie Knochenhauer at 215-275-4978, [email protected],
or www. ADHDAware.org.
ART. ART PARTNERS STUDIO. Art classes and
participation at special events for ages 6-to-12 years. Info:
Lindsay Brinton at 610-384-3030, or [email protected].
ART. CENTER for CREATIVE ARTS, Hockessin, Del.
Classes for special needs students ages 6-to-12 years. Info:
www.ccarts.org, or 302-239-2434.
ART. EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPY GROUPS for
CHILDREN. Building Bridges, Media. Ages 5-to-9, and 10-to13 years. Monday evenings. Info: 484-574-2858, or debleoni
@comcast.net.
ART. FREE 12-WEEK ART CLASS for PEOPLE with
SPECIAL NEEDS. Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood Ave,
Wayne. $25/materials. Info: 610-688-3553, www.wayneart.org,
or [email protected].
ART. SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE for ADULTS using
MH SERVICES to take music and art lessons from Merge
Education. Contact Mary Helen Rossi at 484-887-0377 to
receive scholarship application.
ASTHMA MANAGEMENT PROGRAM – “HEALTHY
HOOPS.” Program uses sports to promote health
management and education. Asthma screenings, parent
education, family fit program, environmental home check-up,
etc. For a video explanation of the program: visit
www.healthyhoopsprogram .com/solution/video.asp. Contact:
Flora Castillo at 888-765-4194 or flora.castillo@amerihealth
mercy.com.
AUTISM. CLASSROOM PROGRAMMABLE. Discovery
Day School, Five Points Road, West Chester. Tuesday and
Thursday 9:30–12:30 p.m. “Building the Basics through
Learning Experiences” for two-year-olds; run by The ARC of
Chester County (First Step) and taught by a skilled speech
therapist with a unique blend of TEACCH, total
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KIDS 28
(Continued from page 27)
communication, positive reinforcement and child-centered
learning. Info/registration: Anne Bernstein at 610-696-8090.
AUTISM. EQUESTRIAN THERAPEUTIC VAULTING for
children ages 7-to-12 years. Autism Speaks grant recipient
“Let’s Vault, Max” supports the development of social, motor
and sensory-processing skills, as well as horsemanship skills
and bonding between the horse and rider. Includes research
component in collaboration with Widener University physical
therapy department. Eleven-week vaulting sessions
Wednesday evenings Jan. 4-March 14. Info: Quest
Therapeutic Services at 610-692-6362 or www.Quest
Therapeutic.com.
AUTISM. SPARC (Southeastern Pennsylvania Resource
Center), in partnership with West Chester University. Nonprofit clinic serving children, adolescents and young adults
with ASD. Includes: diagnostic services, behavioral therapeutic
services, feeding evaluations and treatment, home programs,
academic tutoring, social skills, consultative services,
daycare/school/ service providers, consulting services,
babysitting/respite care. Located on the WCU campus. Info:
[email protected], or 610-430-5678.
AUTISM. SUPPORT GROUP for parents of children under
five years with autism. St. Matthew's United Church of Christ,
2350 Conestoga Rd, Chester Springs. Share experiences, voice
questions, seek advice and share in laughter with other parents.
Call Janice at 610-696-8090 for dates and times.
AUTISM. TODDLER/PRE-SCHOOL PLAY GROUP for
children with ASDs. Structured play dates where children can
develop social/play skills w/peers, while parents network with and
support each other. Communicate through Yahoo group: groups.
yahoo.com/group/ASD_Playgroup/ Subscribe by sending an email to ASD_Playgroup-subscribe@ yahoogroups.com.
CHESS CLUB for ages 5-to-18 years. Mondays from 4-8
p.m. Coatesville Area Public Library. Learn to play tournament
chess. Free. No registration necessary. Info: 610-384-4115.
COMPUTERS. Low-cost, refurbished computers available for
$50 to $300 for qualifying families. Download an application from
web site: www.TeamChildren.com. Info: 610-666-1795.
COMPUTER WORKSHOPS. Chester County Library, 450
Exton Square Parkway, Exton. Space limited. Info/registration:
610-280-266, or [email protected]. Library calendar available at
www.ccls.org/assets/pdfs/cclnews.pdf.
DANCE. DIAMOND DIVAS. A drill and step team for girls
ages 7-to-16 years. Info: Geri Allen at 610-380-4465 or
[email protected].
DANCE. DIANE MATTHEWS SCHOOL of DANCE, 315
Westtown Rd., Suite 9, West Chester. Dance opportunities for
youth with special needs ages 6-to-12 years. Fall 2011 —
“Special Dance” on Wednesdays from 5-5:45 p.m., involving
creative movement and various styles of music and dance.
Contact the studio to find out if the class is appropriate for your
son or daughter. Info: 610-692-3398. Web site: dianematthews
dance.com.
DAY CARE. LAUREN’S HOUSE, a caring center for special
children ages birth to eight years with skilled medical/nursing
needs, acute or chronic in nature. A medical day health center;
can be used in lieu of or as a complement to private duty
nursing in the home. Located in Boothwyn and Coatesville area.
Info/registration: 877-589-0854. Web site: www.laurenshouse
.com.
DEPRESSION. Learn from ME about teen depression. The
ME Project: encouraging, supporting and educating teens, their
families, and the community about mental health issues.
Resource center in Ridge Village Shopping Center, Suite 21,
Chadds Ford. Web site: www.meproject.org.
DRIVERS TRAINING. Two courses: “Classroom (Highway
Safety)” and “Behind the Wheel” offered by the Chester County
Intermediate Unit. Info/brochure: www.cciu.org/Departments/
CustomEd/drivereducationpdfs/DriverEd2009-10.pdf or 484237-5189.
EARLY LEARNING PROGRAMS. The Luma Center for
Development and Learning, 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern.
Supportive, small-group weekday programs for children ages 3to-6 years. Info: 610-296-6725, ext. 183, [email protected],
or www.lumacenter.org.
SPECIAL NEEDS
HOMEWORK. BRIDGE ACADEMY and COMMUNITY
CENTER. For ages 4-to-18 years or 18 years and up.
Homework Club, arts and crafts, dance, sewing, carpentry,
computer classes. Info/registration: Jordan at 610-466-9505, or
[email protected].
HOMEWORK.-THE GARAGE COMMUNITY & YOUTH
CENTER OPENING. Kennett Square and West Grove locations.
Open Monday-Friday from 3-6 p.m.; homework-only hours
Monday-Thursday 6-7 p.m. It’s the only place in Kennett and
West Grove that is open just for middle and high school
students. It’s free, it’s fun and its for real. The Garage is a place
to come after school to get help with your homework, use a
computer, play a game of pool, or participate in activities hosted
by the groups that meet here. Info: 610-444-6464, Maggie@
garageyouthcenter.org, or www.garageyouthcenter.org.
MENTORING. CHESTER COUNTY FUTURES. School- and
community-based mentoring program for ages 14-to-18 years.
Info/registration: Kathy at 610-516-1050, or kmclaughlin
@ccfutures.org.
MENTORING. GIFTS. Mentoring program for girls ages 13to-18 years. Info/registration: Jackie at 610-384-3344, or jcarter
@nlicf.org.
MENTORING. TIMS. Mentoring program for youth ages 11to-18 years. Info/registration: Alphonse at 610-384-8595, or
[email protected].
MENTORING. YOUNG LIFE. Mentoring and youth programs
for ages 14-to-18 years. Info/registration: Josh at 484-354-9496
or [email protected].
MUSIC. “MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC,” an interactive parentchild music group. The ARC of Chester County, West Chester.
Group for 0-to-3-year-olds Wednesdays from 9:15-10 a.m.;
group for 3-to-5-year-olds Fridays 9:15-10 a.m. $80. Class
limited to 10 children. Info/registration: Janice at 610-696-8090,
ext. 200.
MUSIC. TEMPO MUSIC THERAPY SERVICES. West
Chester and King of Prussia. Individual and group music therapy
sessions for children, teens and adults as well as inclusive
family music (Music Together) classes. Info: 610-344-7030, or
www.tempotherapy.com.
PLAYGROUNDS – NO BORDERS. The YMCA of the Upper
Main Line. Play without limits. Info: Jennifer at 610-854-1625, or
[email protected].
READING. COATESVILLE AREA LIBRARY. Reading
programs, story-time, play groups, family groups and special
events for ages birth-to-12 years. Info: 610-384-4115.
RECREATION. FREE LIFETIME ACCESS PASS to
NATIONAL PARKS for permanent residents with a permanent
disability. Links/info: www.store.usgs.gov/pass/access.html.
RECREATION. COATESVILLE ARTS and RECREATION
DEPARTMENT. Summer/winter basketball leagues, summer
programs and art classes for ages 8-to-15 years. Info: 610-3840300.
RECREATION. COMMUNI-TEENS. A service and
recreational program for teens using wrap-around services and
neighborhood peers sponsored by The Institute for Behavioral
Change. Limited to 10 teens. Contact: 610-383-1432.
RECREATION. FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT. First Friday each
month at 7 pm. The Journey Church in West Chester. Movies
shown on 9x13-foot big screen. Soda and popcorn provided.
Info: Scott Smith, pastor, at [email protected].
RECREATION. FUN CLUB. For 6-to-12-year-olds one
Saturday a month. Community fun. Run by The ARC of Chester
County. Call your supports coordinator for funding options. Info:
Rob at 610-696-8090, ext. 240, or rmalone@arcofchester
county.org.
RECREATION. SYNERGY RECREATION. Home-based
services offering personalized activities, and designing
meaningful recreational experiences by building on client's
current interests and helping people create lasting relationships
within families and communities. All about fun. Info: Heather at
synergyrecreation.com, or 610-324-8307.
EDUCARE STREET SMARTS. KenCrest’s extended schoolday transition support for students with autism and other
developmental disabilities. Building bridges to the community for
school-age children 13-to-21 years. Info: 610-636-1575.
RECREATION. SOCIAL SKILLS and RESPITE – TEEN
LINK to the COMMUNITY (TLC) CLUB. Meets monthly on
Saturday or Sunday for 4-plus hours. For ages 13-to-21 years.
Community-based barbecues, swim parties, zoos, outdoor
games, dances, bowling, train rides, etc. Call your supports
coordinator for funding options. Info: Rob at The ARC of Chester
County at 610-696-8090, ext. 240, or rmalone@arcofchester
county.org.
EXCEPTIONAL ADVENTURES: Dances for Teens (13-to-21
years) with IDD. Peter’s Place Restaurant, 1199 Washington
Pike, Bridgeville. 7-10 p.m. Dec. 16 —“Winter Wonderland.” Preregistration recommended. $10. Info: www.exceptional
adventures.com, 412-446-0713, or [email protected].
RESPITE. ARC of Chester County TAP PROGRAM
(Temporary Assistance Provider) offers one-on-one respite
assistance to families by the hour, day or week. All ages. Info:
Janine at 610-696-8090, ext. 239, or jcaldwell@arcofchester
county.org.
FEEDING. SPARC (Southeastern Pennsylvania Resource
Center), in partnership with West Chester University. 1160
McDermott Dr., West Chester. Evaluations and treatment in
clinic, home, and community/school. Info: 610-430-5678, or
[email protected].
RESPITE. ARCares (ages 18+) COMMUNITY RESPITE
and EXCURSION SERVICES RESPITE PROGRAM. Planned
community excursions each month at same time of month allow
caregivers to schedule respite time on a consistent basis. Info:
Janine at 610-696-8090, ext. 239.
NEW! THE FOOT MINISTRY SUPPORT GROUP in
SOUTHERN CHESTER COUNTY. The FOOT ministry (Families
Overcoming Obstacles Together) is forming to help families walk
through these challenges together. The ministry is based out of
the Christian Life Center, New London Township. Info: Allison
Rafferty at 610-467-0064, or www.clcfamily.net.
RESPITE. CHESTER COUNTY RESPITE NETWORK.
Respite provider as well as in-school 1:1 support service
provider (personal care assistants), participating in the
Phoenixville Grant program, waivers, family-driven dollars,
agency pay, and private pay for respite. School services are
funded by the districts. Info: Donna at respitenetwork@
comcast.net.
GAMES. FREE ON-LINE GAMES:
• AARP — http://games.aarp.org/categories/all.aspx includes
beach soduko, carniball, cryptogram, disco bowling, driver safety
program word search, easy crossword, Word Search, etc.
• UCLICK: http://content.uclick.com/games.html includes
daily tootonym, daily roundup, flash arcade solitaire, play four
soduko, universal trivia, universal jigsaw puzzle, universal
crossword, up and down words.
• HAPPY NEURON GAMES: www.happy-neuron.com/
partners/index.php?refcode=006AARP
GAMES. PAID ON-LINE GAMES:
• Fit Brains — www.fitbrains.com/
• Luminosity Brain Games — www.lumosity.com
RESPITE. FUN CLUB for ages 6-to-12 years meets one
Saturday a month. Community fun. Run by The ARC of Chester
County. Call your supports coordinator for funding options. Info:
Rob at 610-696-8090, ext. 240, or rmalone@arcofchestercounty
.org.
RESPITE. MH HELPING HANDS. Respite for caregivers
with children from birth-to-21 years living in Chester County who
receive MH services.Info: [email protected], or
610-696-8090, ext. 239.
RESPITE. PARENT’S NIGHT OUT. Opportunities for worryfree nights out.YMCA of the Brandywine Valley, Coatesville. Info:
[email protected], or 484-237-5354. Calendar of events: www.
NOVEMBER 2011
autismallianceofchestercounty.org.
Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available.
RESPITE. WCUPA AUTISM RESPITE CARE. West Chester
University student volunteers trained in ASD and behavior
principles provide free in-home respite care to families of
children on the spectrum. Weekday evenings. To receive respite
services, contact Dr. Corinne Murphy, WCU assistant professor,
at [email protected].
SUBSTANCE ABUSE. BABES (Beginning Awareness Basic
Education Studies). A seven-lesson program on ATOD (alcohol,
tobacco and other drugs) for K-to-2 grade students uses
interactive dialogue among hand-puppets. BABES is
implemented in elementary schools and after-school/community
programs via trained presenters and coordinated by Holcomb.
Info/registration: Chrissie at 484-444-0412, cdziembo@
holcombbhs.org, or Luis (bilingual) at LBenites2@holcombbhs
.org.
RIDING. QUEST THERAPEUTIC SERVICES, INC., Cann
Road, West Chester, provides a full range of therapy services,
including hippotherapy, with flexible scheduling with OT/PT and
therapeutic horseback riding for children with special needs.
Indoor arena heated and ventilated for year-round use. Also,
vaulting Sept. 7-Nov. 22. Some types of insurance reimbursable.
Info: 610-692-6362, or Sandra [email protected].
SCOUTING. GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN
PENNSYLVANIA. Girl Scout troop for disabled girls and nondisabled girls who would like to join as buddies. Ages 6-to-13
years. Meets in an accessible home on the Honey
Brook/Coatesville border with three cats and one dog as
honorary members of the troop. Info: Meira at 610-273-7858, or
[email protected].
SCOUTING. BOY SCOUT TROOP 599, Hawk Mountain
Council. For boys and young men with special needs 11 years
old and up. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Old Swede Road, Amity
Township. Cost: $40/year. Info: Chris or Kim Murray at
[email protected], 610-404-1206, 484-638-4906 or 484-6382002.
SCOUTING. CUB SCOUT PACK 599, Hawk Mountain
Council. For boys 7-to-11 years with special needs. St. Paul’s
Lutheran Church, Old Swede Road, Amity Township. Cost:
$40/year. Info Chris or Kim Murray at [email protected],
610-404-1206, 484-638-4906 or 484-638-2002.
SCOUTING. CUB SCOUT PACK 64, Chester County. For
boys on the autism spectrum. SS. Philip and James Church,
Exton. Web site: www.cubscoutpack64.com.
SELF-ADVOCACY. PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH
LEADERSHIP SELF-ADVOCACY. Monthly conference calls to
explore topics of interest to young self-advocates. First Sunday
each month from 7-8 p.m. Info: 1-309-946-5255 (access code
376191#). Visit the PYLN web site at www.pyln.pbwiki.com for
additional information.
SENSORY. SNACK and PLAY: A PLAYGROUP for
CHILDREN 3-to-5 YEARS who ARE “FUSSY EATERS.” One
group of five children will meet three times per week for four
weeks, led by an instructor and an OT. Info: Karen Schillinger of
Easter Seals at 610-873-3990.
SIBLING GROUPS ONGOING. Second Saturday each
month. Wayne. 8:45-10 a.m. for 4-to-6-year-olds and 10-noon
for 7-to-11-year-olds. Uses play, arts and crafts, snack, talking
and stories. Facilitators: Dale Fisher, LCSW; and Deirdre Miller,
MA. Cost $35. Info: 610-668-8890. E-mail: dalefish2000@aol.
com.
SIBSHOPS for 8-to-13-year-old brothers and sisters of
children with special needs. Mixture of new games, discussion
and guest speakers. Brandywine YMCA, Coatesville. Session
info: 610-783-1788, ext. 223. E-mail: rkbrenneman@childand
familyfocus.org.
SIBSHOPS. Second Saturday each month (September
through May). Creative Health Services, Pottstown. Info: 610326-2767. E-mail: [email protected].
SIBSHOPS for TEENS. Info: 610-783-1788, ext. 223. Email: [email protected].
SOCIAL SKILLS/EXECUTIVE FUNCTION. Clubs for 8-to-12
year-olds. Click-It Builders Club for boys and Create-It Club for
girls, offering opportunities to practice social interaction skills
and teamwork while having fun. The Luma Center for
Development and Learning. 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern. Info:
610-296-6725, ext. 183. [email protected], or www.luma
center.org.
SOCIAL SKILLS/GROUPS. Theraplay, Inc., 638
Brandywine Parkway, West Chester. Info: 610-436-3604, ext. 12,
or [email protected]. Web site: www.theraplay inc.com.
SOCIAL SKILLS/GROUPS. Little Wonders Child Growth
and Development Center, Inc., Germantown Pike and Swede
Road, East Norriton. Led by licensed speech pathologist and
physical therapist. Dynamic, interactive and fun sessions. Info:
610-275-KIDS.
SOCIAL SKILLS. PROMPT and PLAY CENTER. For 3-to18-year-olds in need of social skills, life skills and counseling.
Web site: www.promptandplay.com.
SOCIAL SKILLS. YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL CLUB/TEEN
CLUB of CHESTER COUNTY, sponsored by Easter Seals of
Southeastern Pennsylvania for teens/young adults with
disabilities. Meets twice a month, usually the first and third
Fridays each month. Have lots of fun exploring community,
karaoke, dance, cook and socializing. Info: Kim at 610-5652353.
SOCIAL SKILLS. YOUNG CHILDREN GROUP (4-to-6year-olds). Wayne. Second Saturday each month. 8:45-10 a.m.
Info: Dale Fisher at 610-668-8890. E-mail: dalefish2000@aol
.com.
SPORTS. CHALLENGER SOCCER. Saturdays beginning
Sept. 10. Noon. West Bradford Youth Atheletics presents its
second season of Challenger Soccer for children with special
needs ages 7-to-21years. No previous soccer experience
necessary. Children grouped based on ability and not age.
Fosters fun and inclusive atmosphere. Fee: $30. Scholarships
available. Info/registration: John G. at 610-486-6842 or
[email protected]. Sign up at www.WBYA.org and register
under “Challenger Soccer.”
SPORTS. COATESVILLE AREA LITTLE LEAGUE. Little
League baseball program for ages 5-to-18 years. Info: Pat 610384-5689.
SPORTS. WEST BRADFORD YOUTH ATHLETICS
CHALLENGER SOCCER. Soccer leagues for children with
special needs ages 7-to-21 years. WBYA soccer fields. Starting
in April with games on Saturday for one hour. Info/registration:
John Gallagher at 610-486-6842, or [email protected].
SUBSTANCE ABUSE. PROJECT ALERT, a nationally
recognized seven-lesson program gives middle school students
insight, understanding and actual skills for resisting substance
use. Holcomb Behavioral Health. Info/registration: Chrissie at
484-444-0412, [email protected], or Luis (bilingual) at
[email protected].
SUBSTANCE USE. Four-session program aimed at middle
and high school students who have been identified as having
substance use issues in the family. Educational and reflective
activities help children cope with stresses of family problems and
strengthen their resilience. Holcomb Behavioral Health.
Info/registration: Chrissie 484-444-0412, cdziembo@holcomb
bhs.org, or Luis (bilingual) at [email protected].
SWIMMING. SPLASH, a free water safety experience,
presented by Dansko for children in first through eighth grade.
Kennett Area Community Pool, Walnut Street, Kennett Square.
4:45 p.m., 5:45 p.m. or 6:45 p.m. Transportation provided.
Info/registration: Lolly Hallman at 610-444-9622, ext. 2319, or
Lenda at ext. 2317.
SWIMMING. Y-KNOT OTTER SWIM TEAM. The YMCA of
the Upper Main LIne, Berwyn. For youth 4-to-18 years of age
with physical and physiological challenges. Helps build
confidence and self esteem. Info/registration: Jennifer at 610854-1625, or [email protected].
TEEN OPEN DOORS PIZZA NIGHT. The YMCA of the
Upper Main Line (Carriage House), Berwyn. Saturdays Nov. 5
and Dec. 3. 6-8 p.m. Fun social group for 13-to-19-year-olds that
caters to developmentally challenged teens. Meet for pizza and
activities and make new friends. $25. Info/registation: Jennifer at
610-854-1625, or [email protected].
THEATER. CHILDREN’S THEATER. Children’s theater
program for ages 11-to-14 years. Info: Rev. Sherry at 610-3844771.
TUTORING/ACADEMIC SUPPORT. The Luma Center for
Development and Learning, 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern. Private
coaching and academic/study skills support groups. Info: 610296-6725, ext. 183, [email protected], or
www.lumacenter.org.
VOCATIONAL/GED-CHESTER COUNTY OPPORTUNITIES
INDUSTRIALIZATION CENTER. GED, computer, employment
and certified nursing training for ages 16-to-24 years. Info: 610692-2344, Joyce Chester at [email protected] or Gina Venuti
at [email protected].
VOCATIONAL/GED-CAREER LINK. Adult, GED
preparation, vocational training, resume writing, computer
workshops and Job Corp for ages 16-to-adult. Info: 610-3849393.
VOCATIONAL/TRANSITIONAL-EARN CENTER. Job
readiness, occupational training, employment activities and
retention for ages 18-to-24 years. Info: Lila at 610-384-6900 or
[email protected].
VOCATIONAL/GED-CHESTER COUNTY
OPPORTUNITIES INDUSTRIALIZATION CENTER. GED,
computer, employment and certified nursing training for ages
16-to-24 years. Info: 610-692-2344, [email protected] or
[email protected].
VOCATIONAL/GED-CAREER LINK. Adult, GED
preparation, vocational training, resume writing, computer
workshops and Job Corp for ages 16-to-adult. Info: 610-3849393.
WORSHIP. REJOICING SPIRITS WORSHIP SERVICE.
Second Sunday each month. 4 p.m. Innovative inclusive
ministry at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Lionville/Exton. Lots of
music, refreshments and fellowship follow the service. Info:
610-363-6264, [email protected], or www.rejoicing
spirits.org. All faiths are welcome.
SUPPORT/ADVOCACY GROUPS
THE RIGHT-to-EDUCATION TASK FORCE-CHESTER
COUNTY usually meets the second Thursday each month.
Chester County Intermediate Unit, 455 Boot Rd.,
Downingtown.10-12:30 p.m. Get involved and improve your
skills as an advocate. Meets September through June.
Info/activity schedule/resource manual: www.righttoed .org or
contact Lauren LaFountain at [email protected], or 484-2375057; voice mail 610-696-8090, ext. 348. Task force monitors
and advises local special education services, provides training
and network opportunities for parents and informs public about
state/national special education issues. Time set aside at every
meeting to address individual concerns.
THE RIGHT-to-EDUCATION TASK FORCE, DELAWARE
COUNTY. Delaware County Intermediate Unit, Room 171, 200
Yale Ave., Morton. 6-8 p.m. Training opportunities. Info: 610938-9000, ext. 4037.
THE RIGHT-to-EDUCATION STATE TASK FORCE via
videoconference. PaTTAN, King of Prussia. 10-noon. Info: King
of Prussia office at 1-800-441-3215. Get involved.
ADDICTION. DRUG AND ALCOHOL SUPPORT LINE for
FAMILY MEMBERS OF ADDICTS. 215-736-1643.
ADDICTION. WEST CHESTER AREA PARENT SUPPORT
GROUP meets every Tuesday. Westminster Presbyterian
Church, West Chester. 7-9 p.m. For parents whose children
have been impacted by addiction. A place to find support and
encouragement. Info: Lyle and Deidre at 610-793-3446, or Bob
and Sue at 610-563-1706 or [email protected].
ADOPTION. SHARING OUR ADOPTION RESOURCES
(SOAR). Parent support group discussing joys and challenges
(Continued on page 29)
SPECIAL NEEDS
NOVEMBER 2011
(Continued from page 28)
of raising post-institutionalized, school-age children adopted
internationally. E-mail: [email protected].
ADULTS with PHYSICAL DISABILITIES SUPPORT
GROUP. For young/older adults to share information support,
socialization, resources. Info: 610-524-5850. E-mail:
[email protected].
The ARC’s “AGENCY with CHOICE” PROGRAM for MR
WAIVER SERVICES. Would you like to have more control over
the services a person with MR receives via his/her ISP, and/or
be able to select your own provider of MR services. Contact
AWC program director Kari Burdeau at 610-696-8090, ext. 241,
or [email protected].
ARCONNECTIONS empowers parents of special needs
students through training in the special education process,
sharing of resources/ knowledge, and the offering of emotional
support from other parents who are also working to get
appropriate educational supports for their children. Info: Connie
or Barbara at 610-696-8090, ext. 220. Web site: www.arcof
chestercounty.org.
ADOLESCENT SUPPORT GROUP. E-mail: Lvandivner@
aol.com. CHILDREN'S SUPPORT PROGRAM. E-mail: pkfunk
@verizon.net.
ADOPTION: Orientation/information nights will be held for
those interested in low-cost adoptions. Friends Association, 206
N. Church St., West Chester. Call Melrena Flowers at 610-4313598, ext. 209, to attend or if you have questions.
ADOPTION: FOLLOWING ADOPTION PARENT
SUPPORT GROUP. Focusing on attachment disorder/other
issues for parents of adopted children. Meets second Tuesday
each month. Room 339, Government Services Center, 601
Westtown Rd, West Chester. 7-9 p.m. Info: dckuchlak@aol
.com; 610-280-9555, ext. 3; Nancy at 610-255-3664, or
nancyjhg @comcast.net. Web site: www.attachmentdisorder
help .homestead.com, and www.attachmentdisorder.net.
APRAXIA SUPPORT GROUP. Info/dates/times: Wendy at
[email protected] or Lia at [email protected].
ASCEND (Asperger’s and autism support). Info: Deirdre at
610-449-6776, [email protected], or www.ascend
group.org.
ATTACHMENT DISORDER NETWORK ONLINE
SUPPORT. E-mail: [email protected] or julieb@radzebra
.org.
AUTISM ASA PHILADELPHIA LIST-SERVE for families of
adults with ASD and related disorders. Restricted to family
members in Pennsylvania. Join at health.groups.yahoo.com/
group/FamiliesOfAdultsAutism-ASAphilly/.
AUTISM ALLIANCE MEETING. Chester County
Intermediate Unit, Boot Road, Downingtown. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Info: www.autismallianceofchestercounty.org. Ask about
Parents’ Night Out events. Email: aacc@autismallianceof
chestercounty.org.
AUTISM GROUP for FAMILIES and CAREGIVERS of
ADULTS on the SPECTRUM. Coordinated by the Adult
Services Committee of the ASA of Greater Philadelphia Chapter
for those with loved ones on the autism spectrum 17 years old
and above. Support and learn from each other. Web site:
groups.yahoo .com/group/FamiliesOfAdultsAutism-ASAphilly.
AUTISM — SPARC (Southeastern Pennsylvania Resource
Center). Non-profit clinic, In partnership with West Chester
University, serves children, adolescents and young adults with
ASD. Includes: diagnostic services, behavioral therapeutic
services, feeding evaluations and treatment, home programs,
academic tutoring, social skills, consultative services,
daycare/school/service providers, consulting services,
babysitting/respite care. Located on the WCU campus. Info:
[email protected], or 610-430-5678.
AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP — OXFORD AREA. Mondays
at Oxford Presbyterian Church. 6-8:30 p.m. For anyone who
cares about someone with autism. Facilitated by a graduate
student from Lincoln University. Info: Margaret at mcortlessa@
zoominternet.net, or 484-886-7531.
AUTISM – TACA (“Talk about Curing Autism”). National
non-profit now holds monthly meetings in Pennsylvania on the
first Friday each month. 16 Campus Blvd., Suite 200, Newtown
Square. Info: Honey at 610-405-5388, or honey.rinicella@
tacanow.org. Web site: www.tacanow.org.
BETTER LIVING BETTER LIVES meets the fourth
Wednesday each month. The ARC, West Chester. 7 p.m. Group
of families meet monthly to work toward a more independent
life for their family members who need 24/7 support. Join us.
Info: [email protected].
BRAIN INJURY. ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY NETWORK
SUPPORT EVENTS and NEWSLETTER. Web site: www.abinpa.org. Mailing list: 215-699-3391, or [email protected].
CARING COMMUNITIES COALITION MEETING. COAD,
Exton. Info/date and time: Kathleen at [email protected].
CELIAC - MALVERN R.O.C.K. (Raising our Celiac Kids) A
free support group for parents, families and friends of kids on
the gluten-free diet because of celiac disease, gluten
intolerance, autism, ADD/ADHD, allergies, or personal
preference. Info/registration: www.malvernrock.org or e-mail
Jen Manzi at [email protected].
CHADD – CHESTER COUNTY CHILDREN and ADULTS
with ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER –. PARENT/TEACHER
MEETINGS. Support/education meetings at Kesher Israel
Congregation, West Chester. CHADD Message Line 610-4294060. Web site: www.chestercountychadd.org; for specific
dates and topics visit www.CHADD.net/222.
CHESTER COUNTY HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES.
Web search for services provided in Chester County by
category, key word, or agency/program name. Web site:
www.referweb.net/chesco/.
CHESTER COUNTY COLLABORATIVE BOARD. Service
providers, community, parents addressing issues involving
children/ families. Info: Kathy Brauner at 610-344-5262.
CHESTER COUNTY FAMILY and COMMUNITY
PARTNERSHIP. Families, funders, providers, community
organizations working together to build awareness, share
information, improve efforts on behalf of children and families in
Chester County. Info: 610-783-1788, ext. 223. E-mail:
[email protected].
Center, 825 Paoli Pike, West Chester. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Info John
at 610-429-1702. E-mail: [email protected].
COMMUNICATE PA. COMMUNITY. 0n-line community for
individuals with complex communication needs and their
families, advocates, service providers, policy makers and other
stakeholders. Web site: http:// communicatepa.wikispaces.com/.
To join the listserv: http://communicatepa.wikispaces.com
/ListServ. Info: Jennifer M. Seale, M.S. CCC-SLP, at seale@
temple.edu, or voice mail at 215-204-3032.
“DOUBLE TROUBLE.” Consumer support group for those
recovering from addiction and mental health problems.
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Community Crossroads Peer Support
Center, 825 Paoli Pike, West Chester. 3:30-5 p.m. Call John at
610-429-1702. E-mail: [email protected].
COMMUNITIES THAT CARE GROUPS. School districtbased groups promote healthy youth development and prevent
and reduce negative youth health and behavioral issues
including substance abuse, delinquency, teen pregnancy,
school drop-out, and violence.
• West Chester CTC meets the second Wednesday each
month at various locations. Info Christina at 610-696-8262.
• Downingtown CTC meets the third Tuesday at Lionville
Community YMCA. Info: Elena Seeman at 610-458-9090, ext.
2827, or [email protected].
• Great Valley CTC-Great Valley Partnership for Healthy
Youth meets the third Wednesday each month at school district
administrative office, 46 Church Rd., Malvern. Info: Shanna
Cornuet at 484-886-8437.
COMMUNITY CARE FAMILY ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
DIFFICULT/CHALLENGING TEEN-PARENT SUPPORT
GROUP meets at Willowdale Chapel, Rt. 82, Unionville. Info:
610-274-2248.
DOWN SYNDROME INTEREST GROUP of CHESTER
COUNTY meets the first Thursday each month.The ARC in
West Chester. 7:30 p.m. RSVP to Hotline: 610-889-0291. Web
site: www.ccdsig.org. Note: Newsletter is going to e-mail format
only; send in your e-mail address to DSIG.
EARLY INTERVENTION — CHESTER COUNTY LICC.
Room 300, Chester County Intermediate Unit, Downingtown.
9:30-11:30 a.m. Meetings for professionals and parents with
children with special needs in the early intervention years.
Mission: support families and enhance the quality of services.
Info/newsletter/event listing: Co-chair Patty at 610-436-3600,
[email protected], co-chair Lynne at 610-344-5946 or
[email protected].
EDUCATION for ALL COALITION of PENNSYLVANIA
works together to promote education that includes all children.
Online community, Parent Consultant Network, training/technical
Information
Brain
BalanceSeminar
Centers
Is Your Child
Struggling
Achievement
Centers for
with Academic,
Autism
Social
ADHD
or Behavioral Issues?
FREE
Enrolling
Ages 4-17
INARS
SEMNow!
Join us forAspergers
our next Free Seminars
Tuesdays, Dyslexia
January 4th at 7:00pm
January
at noon
OCD18th
• ADD
February
1st at 7pm
Tourettes
New
with
ToApproach
learn more about
10
years of
proven success
Functional
Disconnection
Syndrome
KIDS 29
sharing their home with nieces, nephews, grandchildren or other
related children (Also called Kinship Families). Teen and
children’s activities provided. Info: Kathy Boyd at 610-344-5890.
GREAT VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT PARENTS of
SPECIAL NEEDS and THE GIFTED. Support group,
presentations and parent information center. Meets at the
district office, Malvern. Visit information center at the Great
Valley Middle School. Info: Sandra at 610-640-0507. E-mail:
SADDS [email protected].
HARD of HEARING CHILDREN meets the fourth Tuesday
each month. CHADD, 139 W. Market St., West Chester. Contact
Janine Ruch if you are interested in joining. Info: ruchjm@
comcast.net, or 610-918-6250.
H.O.P.E. (Helping by Offering Prayer and
Encouragement). Christian support for parents of special
needs children. Downingtown. Info: Karyn at 610-873-4698; or
Debbie at 484-888-5443. E-mail: [email protected].
LOVE and LOGIC TRAININGS for parents of all children
and those who work with children. Info: Karen at
[email protected].
MENDING HEARTS, a support group for those dealing with
prodigal kids (or grandchildren) or adults whose life choices are
causing disruption and chaos in the family. Meets the second
and fourth Tuesday each month at 7 p.m., September through
June, at the Calvary Fellowship Church, Downingtown, Room
103. Info/registration: [email protected].
MH. BRIGHT FUTURES. Helping those in recovery access
their educational and employment goals. Open to any Chester
County resident who is in mental health recovery. No cost for
classes or materials. Funded by the Chester County
Department of MH/MR. Classes two days a week for nine
weeks from 9-noon. Info: Carelink at 610-429-1702 or Chester
County MH/MR at 610-344-6265.
MH. COMPEER of CHESTER COUNTY. MH friendship
program. Info: www.compeerChesco.org or 610-436-4445.
MH. COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAM. Meets the first
Wednesday at Peer Support Center, West Chester. Noon-2 p.m.
Info: 610-344-7049.
MH. CONSUMER PEER SUPPORT CENTER. West
Chester School District Administration Building, 825 Paoli
Pike, West Chester. Recovery resources, WRAP, CPS and
Common Ground trainings, employment counseling, support
groups, etc. Info: 610-429-1702.
MH. CONSUMER WARM LINE — 877-846-2722.
MH. FAMILY MEMBERS SUPPORT GROUP, eastern
Chester County, meets the fourth Wednesday each month.
Daylesford Abbey, Paoli. 7 p.m. Info: 610-296-8036.
MH. RE-INTEGRATION. Local site: Stepping Stones
Clubhouse. Info: [email protected].
and the Brain Balance Program,
ADHD, Dyslexia, Asperger’s
Call to schedule a free consultation.
MOTHERS of CHILDREN with DISABILITIES SUPPORT
GROUP. Mondays. The ARC of Chester County, West
Chester. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Coordinated/facilitated by The ARC
of Chester County and The YWCA Mother's Center. Purpose:
to meet, share experiences, learn from one another. You are
not alone. Registration: 610-692-3737.
FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY ASSESSMENT
Laura Ellis, Altoona Pa, travels 3 times a week,
SENSORY
4 hrs. each wayMOTOR EXERCISES
COGNITIVE
EXERCISES
NUTRITION
“This program
has been life &
changing
for
Grace and our family,” she says
NAMI (NATIONAL ALLIANCE on MENTAL ILLNESS).
Vast information and resources: www.nami.org. Children and
adolescent issues: www.nami.org/caac. Medications, stigma,
faith net, family to family, peer-to-peer, veterans, resources,
networking, membership, persons missing, etc.
and other learning disabilities.
NAMI CAN. Support group for families of a child or
adolescent up to age 22 with severe emotional disturbances
meets the second Monday each month. Central Presbyterian
Church, Downingtown. 7-9 p.m. Call ahead: 610-935-0739 or
610-296-0377.
250 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 110
Wayne, PA 19087
RSVP 610-688-2700
www.brainbalancecenters.com
Community Care manages mental health and substance abuse
treatment services for individuals with MA under Health Choices
program. The Advisory committee meetings are held quarterly.
Info: 1-866-771-1259.
CONCERNED PARENTS of PHOENIXVILLE AREA
SCHOOL DISTRICT. Info: CPPASD, Box 633, Phoenixville,
Pa.,19460, or [email protected].
DOWNINGTOWN AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT’S SPECIAL
EDUCATION PARENT SUPPORT GROUP. Nov. 14, Jan. 9,
March 12 and May 14. DASD Administration Building, 540
Trestle Place, Downingtown, Room B. 7-9 p.m. Do you think
your child may have a disability that requires special education
services? Do you wonder how to make sense of the world of
special education? Do you wish you could network with other
parents who are involved in the special education process? You
are not alone. We provide a network in which parents of
children with special needs have access to relevant information,
training and emotional support; and encourage an atmosphere
of effective communication, understanding and mutual respect
among all students, parents, educators and the community atlarge. Sign up with our Yahoo group to receive regular
information about this group: http://groups.yahoo.com/ group
/dasdspecialedsupport, dasdspecialedsupport@yahoo
groups.com. Info: Paulette [email protected], or 610-3630127.
DEPRESSION/BI-POLAR SUPPORT GROUP for MH
consumers. Thursdays. Community Crossroads Peer Support
NAMI CHESTER COUNTY. General meetings the third
Thursday each month. Christ Memorial Lutheran Church,
Paoli Pike and Line Road, Malvern. 7-9 p.m. Guest presenters
March — “Question, Persuade, Refer, Suicide Prevention.”
Info: 484-947-5643. Web site: www.chester.nami.org. NAMI
Chester County Hotline: 610-430-0177.
NAMI CHESTER COUNTY HELPLINE. Info: 610-4300177.
NAMI CONSUMER SUPPORT/DEPRESSION-BIPOLAR
ALLIANCE meets Monday from 9:30-10:45 a.m. Info: 610420-7330.
assistance. Info: Diane Perry at 610-522-0698. E-mail:
[email protected]. Web site: www.paedforall.org.
NAMI-FAMILY-to-FAMILY. Family member
education/coping course (free). 7-9 p.m. weekly for 12 weeks.
Regard to persons 18 years-plus with severe mental illness.
Instructors are trained NAMI family members. Must call
ahead: 484-947-5673.
ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS. On-line support group for
parents of children with special health care needs. Visit
www.pamedicalhome.org and click on the “Parents” button.
NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP meets the second
Thursday each month. Phoenixville. 7-8:30 p.m. MH facilitator
attends. Call ahead. Info: 484-947-5643.
EXCEPTIONAL CHILD SUPPORT GROUP for parents with
children with all types of exceptionalities. Discuss educational
ideas to help all children experience success and shine, and
currently sponsor a special child in the community. Info:
[email protected], or 610-345-1156.
NAMI GRIEF and LOSS from MH FAMILY and FRIENDS
SUPPORT GROUP meets the second Thursday each month.
Held at private home. 7:30-9:30 p.m. MH facilitator attends.
For MH family members, who have experienced death of a
loved one or loss of hope and dreams of a loved one who
develops mental illness. Info/RSVP: 610-269-3476.
FOSTER CARE. Orientation and information for those
interested in becoming foster parents. Friends Association, West
Chester. Info/registration: Melrena Flowers at 610-431-3598, ext.
209.
FRAGILE X SYNDROME SUPPORT. The Elwyn Fragile X
Center, 111 Elwyn Rd., Elwyn. Info: 610-891-2349,
www.elwyngenetics.org, or [email protected].
GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS/ADVOCACY COMMITTEE of
THE ARC OF CHESTER COUNTY. The ARC of Chester
County, West Chester. Info: 610-696-8090, ext. 220.
GRANDFAMILY SUPPORT GROUP meets the first and
three Fridays each month.Government Services Center, 601
Westtown Rd., West Chester. 7-8:30 p.m. GrandFamilies are
households that are headed by grandparents or other relatives
NAMI MH FAMILY MEMBERS SUPPORT GROUP for
eastern Chester County meets the fourth Wednesday each
month. Daylesford Abbey, Paoli. 7 p.m. MH facilitator. Info:
610-296-8036.
NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP. Phoenixville. Meets
the second Thursday from 7-8:30 p.m. at new location in
Phoenixville. MH facilitator attending. Call ahead at 484-9475643.
NAMI PEER-to-PEER. MH education course taught by
trained MH consumers to MH consumers. Contact Marian
Stevenson Jr. at 610-384-6058 or 484-947-5643 to register.
NAMI PAOLI/EASTERN CHESTER COUNTY REGIONAL
(Continued on page 30)
KIDS 30
SPECIAL NEEDS
NOVEMBER 2011
Theraplay, Inc. celebrates its 20th anniversary
Theraplay, Inc. is celebrating its 20th
anniversary this month.
In November 1991, Lisa Mackell, a
pediatric physical therapist, founded
Theraplay initially as a homecare
organization providing physical,
occupational and speech therapy services
to children from birth-to-21 years.
She opened her first outpatient center
in 1996 in Malvern. Since that time,
Theraplay has expanded its services to
five outpatient centers in the Delaware
Valley, including West Chester, Broomall,
Horsham, Trappe and Quakertown.
Theraplay continues to provide home
services for children from birth-to-three
years through early intervention. In
addition, Theraplay delivers services to
children in a variety of educational
environments. The scope of Theraplay’s
services has expanded to include feeding
therapy services and a variety of group
offerings focusing on socialization.
Mackell, who graduated in 1988 with a
master of physical therapy degree from
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and
Science (now University of the Sciences,
Philadelphia), said that even as a student,
she knew she wanted to provide unique
services for children.
“I knew there were no other providers
out there really treating children the way
I believed they needed to be treated – not
only as individual patients but members
of families,” she said. In keeping with
Mackell’s mission to treat the whole
family, Theraplay facilities are open six
days a week with evening and weekend
hours.
Theraplay’s mission statement is “to
provide pediatric therapeutic intervention
services in a functional play environment
that will enable a child to maximize their
potential.”
Mackell also believes that the patients
need to be engaged to effectively reach
their goals and the best way to engage
children of any age is through play.
Therefore, functional play is incorporated
into each session. Theraplay staff takes a
creative approach to therapy utilizing this
philosophy.
Mackell said Theraplay, Inc. continues
to experience a high demand for its
services. She attributed this to its
reputation, staff relationships with
pediatricians and ability to have families
utilize their insurance benefits, including
medical assistance, to cover the cost of
the services.
They are constantly working to
accommodate the needs of the growing
number of children requiring services. In
order to do this, staff and space are a
necessity. Mackell hires many of the
students who have participated in
Theraplay’s sophisticated clinical
affiliation program once they have
become licensed therapists.
Theraplay also has an aggressive
recruiting department that constantly
searches for therapists who share
Theraplay’s passion and philosophy for
treating its patients. To also keep up with
the demand for services, Theraplay has
relocated and expanded facilities at least
12 times over the past 20 years.
Mackell is passionate about early
therapeutic intervention. To that end, she
has a marketing staff that spends its time
educating the community when it is
appropriate to refer children for
Theraplay’s services. This is done by
providing educational in-services to
medical professionals, educators, preschool/daycare staffs and parents.
She has formed strong relationships
with many area pediatricians including
specialists from pediatric resources such
as CHOP, DuPont/Nemours, St.
Christopher’s Hospital for Children and
others in the Delaware and Lehigh Valley
areas.
Here is one mother’s story about the
importance of early referrals.
“My son Jack was a breech baby, which
I can only assume precipitated his
torticollis. However, due to early
diagnosis and a rigorous treatment plan,
my little boy has overcome his condition
much faster and more completely than I
ever dreamed possible. As a result of the
intervention of a skilled physical
therapist, he has avoided having to wear
a skull helmet and unlike many other
torticollis babies, he has avoided
developmental delays.
“He is seven months old and at this
point, not only is his torticollis tilt
invisible to the eye, but other people
comment on how straight his back and
neck are, and how excellent his posture
is. They are shocked to learn he was a
torticollis baby and that just five short
months ago, his left ear was practically
touching his left shoulder.
“That’s what he looked like when I
brought him to physical therapy at two
months: my child could not hold his head
straight. But the people at Theraplay
changed all that. At each appointment,
the physical therapist approached my
child with gentleness and nurturance and
she used her considerable expertise to
craft a home program for him, which was
easily carried out and eminently helpful.
“Week by week, exercise by exercise, I
began to see my child’s body transform.
There are so many people who improve
the quality of our lives – from the nurse
who cares for us when we are ill, to the
policeman who ensures our safety, to the
teacher that inspires our hard work. Add
to that list, the doctor that provides an
early diagnosis for our children and the
physical therapist that works to overcome
that diagnosis.
“My son is a success story and it is
Resources
SELF-DETERMINATION ACTION TEAM meets the first
Wednesday each month. Government Services Center, 601
Westtown Rd., West Chester. Call for time. Help implement
changes to the MR system through education, and
identification of needs, by challenging barriers that limit
funding and community resources. Info: Sue at 610-344-6265.
E-mail: [email protected].
services. Program offers more control/choice over the
servicesyour family member with IDD receives via his/her ISP
and the provider of IDD services. Info: AWC program director
Kari Burdeau at 610-696-8090, ext. 241, or kburdeau@arcof
chestercounty.org.
(Continued from page 29)
FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP meets the fourth Wednesday
from 7-9 p.m. Call ahead: 610-296-8036.
NAMI KENNETT SQUARE/SOUTHERN CHESTER COUNTY
family support group meets the first Thursday each month.
Friends Meeting House, Rt. 82, Kennett Square. 7:30-9 p.m.
Info: 610-444-5993.
NAMI SUPPORT GROUP for FAMILIES AFFECTED by
BORDERLINE PERSONALITY\DISORDER. Info: 610-6470177.
NAMI WEST CHESTER AREA meets the first Wednesday
from 7-9:30 p.m. Call for location. Info: 484-947-5643.
OWEN J. ROBERTS Parents of Special Needs Students
meets the third Wednesday each month. Large Group Room,
OJR High School, Bucktown. 7:30-9 p.m. Speakers, open
forum and support. E-mail: [email protected].
PARENT NETWORK. Workshops held the second
Tuesday each month. East Brandywine Township Building,
1214 Horseshoe Pike, Downingtown. 8 p.m. Info: Martie
Muzzy at 610-696-8211, or [email protected].
PENNSYLVANIA EDUCATION for ALL COALITION, INC.
Chapter meetings, on-line, parent consultant network. Info:
Diane Perry at 215-204-3031.
PENNSYLVANIA FAMILY SUPPORT ALLIANCE. Support
and education group meets at CYWA in Coatesville. Info: 610384-9591.
REACTIVE ATTACHMENT DISORDER /DIFFICULTIES
PARENT SUPPORT GROUP. Lincoln University area. Info:
Nancy at 610-255-3664 or [email protected].
RECOVERY, INTERNATIONAL. Support group for adults
seeking self-help addressing nervous symptoms and fears.
Wednesdays. Phoenixville area. 7-9 p.m. Info: 610-415-0920.
“RECOVERY WORKS” CONSUMER SUPPORT GROUP
(formerly Schizophrenia Support Group). Tuesdays.
Community Crossroads Peer Support Center, 825 Paoli Pike,
West Chester. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Info: John at 610-429-1702. Email: [email protected].
SEVERE and PROFOUND SUPPORT meets the second
Tuesday each month. Exton Speciality Care Center, Children’s
Hospital of Philadelphia. 7:30-9:30 p.m. For parents of
children with severe/profound disabilities including genetic
disorders, neurological impairments, seizures, MR and
physical limitations. Info: Barbara Beck, RN, CPNP CHOP,
Neurology Department, at 215-590-4583.
STARFISH ADVOCACY ASSOCIATION. Online
community for families of children with neurological disorders
(ADHD, ASD, Bipolar, PDD, SID LD, OCD, Tourette's, etc).
Info: 216-283-2377. Web site: starfishadvocacy.org. E-mail:
starfish@starfish advocacy.org.
SUICIDE. CHESTER COUNTY YOUTH SUICIDE
PREVENTION TASK FORCE. COAD, Exton. Info/date and
time: 610-594-9740.
SURVIVORS of SUICIDE SUPPORT meets the second
Wednesday each month. Paoli Memorial Hospital (Potter
Room). 7:30 p.m. Info: 215-545-2242.
SYSTEM of CARE ADVISORY TEAM. Government
Services Center, 601 Westtown Rd., West Chester. Info:
[email protected].
TREDYFFRIN-EASTTOWN SCHOOL DISTRICT
B.U.I.L.D. (Better Understanding of Individuals with Learning
Disabilities). Call for date and time. Education Services
Center, 738 First Ave., Berwyn. Info: 610-202-4371. Web site:
tesd.k12.pa.us.
WEST CHESTER AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PARENT/CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP meets the first
Wednesday each month. Spellman Administration Building,
829 Paoli Pike, West Chester. 7-9 p.m. Group provides a
resource of information, a place to share knowledge as well
as periodic meetings and presentations for parents of children
with learning differences. Meets September through May. Info:
Peggy at 484-571-6725, or mccaughern@yahoo .com.
“AGENCY with CHOICE” program for IDD waiver
EXPLORE YOUR RESOURCES
“AGENCY with CHOICE” program for IDD waiver
services. Program offers more control/choice over the
services your family member with IDD receives via his/her ISP
and the provider of IDD services. Info: AWC program director
Kari Burdeau at 610-696-8090, ext. 241, or kburdeau@arcof
chestercounty.org.
AUTISM. TRANSITION PLANNING HANDBOOK for
INDIVIDUALS with AUTISM. Online resource for families in
Pennsylvania. Info: www.autismhandbook.org/index.php/
Main_Page.
“AGENCY WITH CHOICE” PROGRAM for IDD WAIVER
SERVICES offers more control and choice over the services
your family member with IDD receives via his/her ISP and/the
provider of IDD services. Call the AWC program director, Kari
Burdeau, at 610-696-8090, ext. 241 or e-mail kburdeau@
arcofchestercounty.org.
AUTISM. TRANSITION PLANNING HANDBOOK for
INDIVIDUALS with AUTISM. Online resource for families in
Pennsylvania. Web site: www.autismhandbook.org/index.
php/Main_Page.
BEHAVIOR SUPPORTS: ABA2DAY Behavior Services,
LLC offers home and in-school programming. Under Act 62 –
insurance is accepted; private pay accepted. Info: www.
myaba2day.com, or 561-213-3738.
BULLYING TOOLKIT. “Eyes on Bullying … What Can You
Do? Toolkit to Prevent Bullying in Children’s Lives.”
Developed by the Educational Development Center in
Massachusetts. Free. Web site: www.eyesonbullying.org.
CELL PHONES. Forty-two minutes a month free to
qualifying individuals in selected area codes. Visit Lifeline at
www.safelink.com or call toll-free at 1-800-977-3768 for more
details.
CHILD HEALTHCARE SERVICE GRANTS available for
up to $5,000 (medical services/equipment.) Child must be 16
years or younger. Online application at UHCCF web site
owing to the skill and foresight of my
physician and my physical therapist. My
family remains forever grateful to them
both.”
For more information about Theraplay,
Inc., visit www.theraplayinc.com.
•
Theraplay, Inc. will celebrate its 20th
anniversary with a host of events during
the week of Nov. 14 at all of its centers.
The celebration will include
entertainment, refreshments, free
screenings and patient, employee and
professional appreciation activities.
These activities will be open to the
public. For more information, call 610436-3600 (West Chester) or 610-3561991 (Broomall).
www.uhccf.org.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS. The Regional
Vulnerable Populations Outreach Project reaches out to
organizations that serve vulnerable populations, providing
them with information, education and trainings on emergency
preparedness as well as materials. Info: [email protected].
www.chesco.org, www.redcross.org, www.nod.org (key word:
emergency preparedness materials), or www.bt.cdc.gov/
mentalhealth/.
EYEGLASSES. Program provides prescription eyeglasses
for low-income individuals.Info: 973-376-4903. Web site:
www.neweyesforthe needy.org/utilities/contact.html.
EMPLOYMENT – disABLEDperson Inc. Info: www.
disabledperson.com.
EMPLOYMENT. CAMPAIGN FOR DISABILITY
EMPLOYMENT. Web site: www.whatcanyoudocampaign.org/.
EMPLOYMENT. WORKFORCE 3. Web site:
www.workforce3one.org/page/home.
EMPLOYMENT. TOOLS FOR AMERICA’S JOB
SEEKERS. United States Department of Labor. Web site:
www.career onestop.org/jobseekertools.
FAMILY GUIDE ON EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICES
available. Title — “Choosing the Right Treatment: What
Families Need to Know about Evidence-Based Practices.” For
copy: 717-238-1514, 800-223-0500, or www.namipa.nami.org.
FOR the LATEST ALERTS, ADVOCACY and E-MAIL
NEWSLETTERS:
• Advisory Board on Autism and Related Disorders –
www.aboard.org.
• Children’s Advocacy Project – www.cap4kids.org.
• Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates –
www.copaa.net.
• Disability Rights Network, Pennsylvania — www.drnpa
.org.
• Education Law Center – www.elc-pa.org.
• Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia –
www.pilcop.org.
FREE CLINIC in PHOENIXVILLE, 143 Church St.,
provides medical care to those without insurance. Web site:
www.theclinicpa.org.
—Connie Mohn, The ARC of Chester County
NOVEMBER 2011
TREDYFFRIN-EASTTOWN
KIDS 31
Pinwheels for peace, created by Devon Elementary School students, were ‘planted’
around the front of the school.
Devon students, staff
celebrate day of peace
Students, teachers and staff at Devon
Elementary School, Tredyffrin-Easttown,
celebrated “International Day of Peace” in
September.
This special day was established by the
United Nations in 1981 so everyone could
take a moment to consider how to make
the world a more peaceful place. People
who live in peaceful areas could take time
to embrace and appreciate the peace in
their lives.
For those who live in tumultuous areas,
they got to experience a day of serenity as
Sept. 21 is recognized as a day of “global
ceasefire.” During the ceasefire, people in
war-stricken areas can build hope that
peace is possible. Additionally, officials
could visit such areas to offer needy
people vital necessities such as food and
medicine.
This year was Devon’s first in
celebrating the International Day of Peace.
Prior to this holiday, teachers conducted
discussions about peace in each
classroom after reading “The Peace Book”
by Todd Parr.
Students had an opportunity to define
peace and to describe what it means to
them. They also wrote or drew personal
peace pledges which are decorating the
school’s hallways. Students also created a
pinwheel for peace and “planted” them
around the front of the school on the
morning of the 21st.
That afternoon, students, teachers, staff
and parents gathered around the
Devon Elementary School students stand at the front of the International Day of
Peace’ assembly with Principal Dr. Thomas Tobin and guidance counselor Tami
Noel. The students were getting ready to say ‘peace’ in their native languages.
flagpole for a school-wide assembly to
celebrate the special day. Devon guidance
counselor Tami Noel discussed the
importance and significance of this special
day. Then student volunteers from each
grade level read their peace pledges aloud.
English Language Learners said the word
“peace” in their native languages. They
included first grader Yash Patnaik, Hindi;
kindergartner Maha Cheluka, Telugu;
second grader Vicente Pena, Spanish; third
grader Lola Judek, German; and fourth
grader Joey Zhou, Chinese.
Finally, everyone sang the school song,
“The Devon Way.” It was a memorable
day and Devon’s teachers, students and
staff are looking forward to making this
celebration an annual tradition.
ALL-STAR BASEBALL
KIDS 32
NOVEMBER 2011
ALL-STAR
BASEBALL
ACADEMY
DOWNINGTOWN
WEST CHESTER
417 Boot Rd. • 610-518-7400
52 Penn Oaks Dr. • 610-399-8050
2011-2012
ALL SKILLS CLINICS
• 5- and 6-YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 20, 27, Jan. 8
Sun. 1-2 p.m.; Tues. 5-6 p.m.
• 7- and 8-YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 20, 27
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18
Sat. 8-9 a.m.; Tues. 6-7 p.m.
• 7- and 8-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 21, 28
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18
Sat. noon-1 p.m.; Wed. 6-7 p.m.
• 7- and 8-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 22, 29
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19
Sun. 10-11 a.m.; Thurs. 5-6 p.m.
• 9- and 10-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 20, 27
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18
Sat. 9-10 a.m.; Tues. 7-8 p.m.
• 9- and 10-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 21, 28
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18
Sat. 11-noon; Wed. 7-8 p.m.
• 9- and 10-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 22, 29
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19
Sun. noon-1 p.m; Thurs. 6-7 p.m.
• 11- and 12-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 20, 27
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18
Sat. 10-11 a.m.; Tues. 8-9 p.m.
• 11- and 12-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 22, 29
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19
Sun. 9-10 a.m.; Thurs. 7-8 p.m.
• 11- and 12-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 22, 29
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19
Sun. 11-noon; Thurs. 8-9 p.m.
• 13- and 14-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 17
Fri. 6:30-7:45 p.m. and 7:45-9 p.m.
BIG LEAGUE
HITTING CLINIC
• 15-to-18-YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20
Mondays 8-9 p.m.
BIG LEAGUE
INFIELD CLINIC
• 15-to-18 YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 6, 13, 19, 26
Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Feb. 7, 14, 21
Tuesdays 7:30-8:30 p.m.
BIG LEAGUE
PITCHING CLINIC
• 15-to-18 YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20
Mondays 6-7 p.m.
BIG LEAGUE
CATCHING CLINIC
• 15-to-18 YEAR OLDS •
Jan. 11, 18, 25
Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Wednesdays 6:30-7:45 p.m.
2011-2012
ALL SKILLS CLINICS
• 5- and 6-YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 28*, Jan. 7, 14
Saturdays Noon-1 p.m.
*Wednesday 5:30-6:30 p.m.
• 7- and 8-YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20
Mondays 6-7 p.m.
• 7- and 8-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 28*
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Saturdays 8-9 a.m.
*Wednesday 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• 9- and 10-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, Jan. 4*, 7, 14, 21, 28
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Saturdays 9-10 a.m. & 11-noon
*Wed., 5:30-6:30 p.m. (9 a.m class)
*Wed., 6:30-7:30 p.m. (11 a.m. class)
• 13-to-15-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16
Thursdays 7-8:15 p.m.
PITCHING &
CATCHING CLINIC
• 13-to-18 YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28
Jan. 11, 18, 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
7:30-8:30 p.m.
HITTING &
FIELDING CLINIC
• 13-to-18 YEAR OLDS •
Dec. 7, 14, 21
Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22
6-7:30 p.m.
ELITE PITCHING
PROGRAM
• 9-to-12-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16
Thursdays, 6-7 p.m.
• 15-to-18 YEAR OLDS •
Nov. 28, Dec. 5, 12, 19
Jan. 2, 16, 23, 30
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27
4:30-6 p.m.
• 11- and 12-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 27*
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Saturdays 10-11 a.m.
*Tuesday 8-9 p.m.
YOUTH WINTER COLLEGE
COACHES CAMP SERIES
• 11- and 12-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20
Mondays 7-8 p.m.
• 13-to-15-YEAR-OLDS •
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20
Mondays 8-9:15 p.m.
For more information, visit www.allstarbaseballacademy.com
for 10-to-12 yr. olds at ASBA-West Chester
Dec. 3 — Coastal Carolina University
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Dec. 10 — University of Virginia
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Dec. 17 — ASBA Prospect Camp
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Dec. 28 — Villanova University
9-10:30 a.m.
Jan. 14 — Penn State University
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Players receive baseball instruction
in hitting, pitching and fielding from
each of the colleges’ respective coaches.