Tag: Parents

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Featured Lifestyle Living NYC

Silverstein Properties Team Up for Back-Together-School Shopping

Alexandr Podvalny Pexels

It’s that time of year again, Shools In

The National Retail Federation estimates that families will spend an average of $849 on back-to-school items, almost $60 more than last year when people rushed to set up classrooms at home. College students and their families are expected to spend an average of $1,200.

Here’s a program that will help local New York parents with their back-to-school needs.

As shopIN.nyc’s local online shopping movement grows, so does the number of New York organizations eager to support the movement. Real estate firm Silverstein Properties has partnered with shopIN.nyc to launch a communications initiative to residents of its buildings across the city to spread the word about shopIN.nyc’s #BackTogether School Shopping program.

About shopIN.nyc

An online “everything” store supplied by dozens of New York City businesses offering same-day delivery in one bag, shopIN.nyc aids in strengthening neighborhoods by keeping money in the community advances sustainability in NYC and provides non-exploitative options for both stores and delivery professionals. Together, New Yorkers are showing the world our main streets (and web browsers) need not be filled with the same few big retailers.

#BackTogether School Shopping enables New Yorkers to buy the supplies their kids need all in one place, sourced from local stores. Shoppers can either find items on shopIN.nyc, load the cart and checkout, or use the free concierge service built with parents in mind. Just fill out a short form and upload your school list, pick a delivery date, and the concierge will find your items from local stores at better prices than Amazon and deliver them in one package. Shoppers can even donate a backpack to an NYC kid in need and pick a school of their choice to support through the automatic school donations program.

Silverstein Properties joins organizations including Nextdoor, the Atlantic Avenue Local Development Corporation, and NYC Next in supporting shopIN.nyc’s efforts to empower our communities to change the future of NYC for all. One of New York’s leading real estate development, investment and management firms, Silverstein’s residential properties include 30 Park Place, Silver Towers, River Place, and the Silver Suites residences on West 42nd Street.

“Residents of Silverstein Properties’ buildings use shopIN.nyc to shop the city,  our back-to-school service helps them to get supplies delivered from local stores same-day,” said Maya Komerov, shopIN.nyc CEO. “Silverstein Properties’ support in spreading the word is a game-changer. We’re proud to partner with them to make their residents aware of this community supporting tool.”

 

ShopIN.nyc

 

Maya Komerov, Founder of ShopIN.nyc, steps onto the New York Launch Pod to discuss her same-day delivery e-commerce platform that allows you to shop from stores in your neighborhood all from the comfort of your home. For more information, please contact Maya Komerov, maya@shopin.nyc, 646-491-1941

As seen on NY Launch Pod: ‘With the rise of commerce giants like Amazon, traditional brick-and-mortar retailers have suffered declining sales year after year. Despite most New Yorker’s wish to shop local and support their communities, local retailers have found it hard to compete on price and convenience and, because New Yorkers are always in a rush, oftentimes it doesn’t make sense to go to multiple stores to get everything they need. This is where ShopIN.nyc comes in. Through ShopIN.nyc Maya Komerov has created a platform that rivals the convenience of Amazon through same-day delivery and an all-in-one commerce platform that supports the small businesses which are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods. On the ShopIN.nyc platform you can choose from a range of products sold by local businesses, ShopIN.nyc then sends their delivery team to each business to put your cart together and deliver it to you by the end of the day.” NY Launch Pod

 

Tal Kerret, President, Silverstein Properties

 

“We are delighted to partner with shopIN.nyc on this important initiative,” said Tal Kerret, President, Silverstein Properties. “We believe it is important to support local businesses and retailers now more than ever. This is an easy and affordable way for parents and guardians to shop for their children’s school supplies.”

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Featured Lifestyle Living News NYC

The Power of Community: Battery Park Rallies for Their Parks

BPCNA

“This is a Political Unicorn”

Residents of Battery Park City and their community were not having it: Governor Cuomo was not going to take away their green space. Cuomo wants the Essential Workers Monument up by Labor Day 2021, and we’re all for a memorial celebrating those who put their lives on the line during the pandemic. But there must be a process that includes the community — is this too much to ask for?

All they were asking for was to be included in the decision, planning, and process.

Many of those who spent the night outside and braved the hot sun fighting for their rights to be heard are actually the doctors, nurses, police, and essential workers among business leaders who live and work right here in our beloved downtown.

Within hours of hearing about the bulldozers, opponents started a Change.org online petition that was signed by 5,000 individuals and counting. Busy parents and people of the area camped out in the park for days on end, and like The Lorax, “we speak for the trees” was just one phrase plastered on posters hugging the trees. In just four days, their pleas were answered- to a degree.

Many people were surprised this neighborhood came together on this issue so quickly.

“But the moms in the community were not surprised at all.  Our community is extremely unified and tight-nit— almost like a small village.  We all truly care about one another.  We already had multiple WhatsApp groups, connecting hundreds of neighbors.  We also had almost 1000 members in our BPC Parents Association Facebook group (I founded it with some friends 5 years ago.)
These platforms have been mostly used to exchange advice, give away hand-me-downs, or report a lost shoe.  So when the news got out about Rockefeller Park being at risk, we were able to mobilize very quickly by using the existing platforms we had already been using for years.
The Parents Association has now morphed into the more formalized BPCNA (BPC Neighborhood Association) and will now have a seat at the table with the BPCA (BPC Authority). The DNA of the group was formed by bonds between neighbors who respect each other and interact in a considerate, caring way. We plan to keep that style, even if the new direction moves towards political causes. “Laurie Sheindlin

Park plans were shifted away from Battery Park but applied to other locations that remain less than favorable. Plans moved to other high-traffic beloved community locations, like the site of the volleyball court near the marina in Battery Park City and next to the Irish Hunger Memorial. The fight is not over. Spearheading the protest were the likes of Korin Cohen, Laurie Sheindlin, Greg Sheindlin, Jenny Rich, Anthony Basilio, Eric Gyasi, Amy Van Buskirk, Pamit S., Lee V. Pham, Jenn Coughlin, Britni Erez, to name a few. These are not just parents, and neighbors, but business leaders in their respective fields.

“This is a Political Unicorn,” exclaimed Greg Sheindlin on the green grass under the trees at Rockefeller Park. Just days before, bulldozers showed up unannounced at that very park, ready to upheave the grass and replace it with a concrete monument honoring NYC’s essential workers.

The green space is well-loved by the people of the community, occupied by playing children, book readers, bike riders, birds, pets, and everything in between.

In protest, the people spoke out — and to think, it all started over social media. What started as a group of parents over WhatsApp turned into a herd of people that caught wind of the project. In under 24 hours, an alliance was formed against Governor Cuomo’s plan to pour concrete over grass and overturn trees.

Those whose children were raised in this area are today grown-ups themselves that still came out to fight, like Mary and Kelly McGowan, 30-year residents. They know the fight down here all too well, as they too had to fight for important issues when their children were small. “The great thing about this protest is that everyone was calm and no voices were raised: it was done with facts and from the hearts of the families and children who live and love this area. We had a mission and we were not going to give up.”

Social media gets a bad wrap, but when it’s used properly, there’s nothing like it. “Today, it’s different: at the click of a finger you can send one message to an entire community, and for that matter, around the world. When my daughter was growing up we had to rely on telephones and in-person meetings, but not today,” described Grace A. Capobianco

One politician stood out as he chanted and rallied with the parents and children. Christopher Marte was there from day one, and just happen to win his seat for District 1 Council. Other leaders still showed up after the fight was over. “We’re elected by the people and we should serve the people. If people knew how valuable this space was to parents, kids, to the little league, soccer, baseball leagues out here, this wouldn’t have even been thought of as a space that was going to be turned from green to concrete,” emphasized Christopher Marte

Tammy Meltzer, Chair Community Board 1, was at the protest and rally and fighting every step of the way at the meetings. “To lose any of the quality of space that is part of this green space is really unfair to people,” she noted.

Meltzer’s teen daughter added, “we grew up in Battery Park City: this is our home and going to other places, it’s not like this — this is one of the only places that has so much green open space. Everywhere you go it’s used extensively by all kinds of people, which is something really beautiful that you don’t get everywhere.”

It was unanimous to all parents, grandparents, and those without children that while the community of New York City and Rockefeller Park would love to honor the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic, they would like to honor it without losing the city’s already limited greenspace.

As of today July 12, 2021, the fight continues, and all residents want is a seat at the table to have their voices heard.

There is a rally today at 4 PM Irish Hunger Memorial.

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Lifestyle Living

Caring for Elderly Parents? 10 Tips to Keep Them Active & Healthy

Caring for Elderly Parents? 10 Tips to Keep Them Active & Healthy

 

Are you taking care of your aging parents? With various health concerns that come with old age, your parents might feel unable to continue their usual lifestyle. That combined with the loss of a partner, retirement, and shrinking social circle can make them susceptible to loneliness. 

 

Now more than ever, they need your care and support to lead a healthy life and rediscover happiness. In this post, we’re sharing ways to keep your elderly family members physically and mentally active. 

 

 

  • Host Family Dinners

 

With kids off to college or starting their own families, elders can often feel socially isolated. Make it a point to regularly host family dinners and gatherings to make them feel loved and appreciated. Even something as simple as taking your elderly parent out for a coffee can make their day.

  • Go on Walks Together

 

Because of mobility issues, your parents might not be willing to participate in physical activities. But any form of exercise is necessary to stay healthy. You can invite them to take a walk with you. The social aspect of taking a walk with your loved one will encourage them to make an effort. And who doesn’t enjoy a good conversation?

 

 

  • Find the Right Caregiver

 

Your aging family members don’t need a personal trainer who will motivate them to stay physically active. Instead, it would be much better to find a caregiver of your parent’s choice. They’re more likely to listen to a friend or relative they have a bond with. And with the help of FreedomCare, they can hire any friend or relative as their caregiver. 

 

 

  • Keep Them Occupied At Home

 

Familiarize your parents with music and video streaming services. Also, help them rediscover their old hobbies and interests. Get them books, puzzles, art supplies, craft supplies, and so on to keep them occupied at home. Doing such activities will make time pass faster.

 

 

  • Sign Them Up at Local Senior Center

 

Nursing homes offer a community for senior citizens. However, if you’re taking care of your loved ones at home, you should look for senior centers in your area. Senior centers are a great place for your parents to connect with other senior citizens. They conduct health and fitness programs, education programs, interactive games, and more to help seniors stay healthy and independent.

 

 

  • Use Technology

 

Whether you have a demanding job or you stay in a different city, it may not be possible for you to visit your elderly loved ones often. But thanks to technology, you can still keep them company. Teach your parents how to message and video call. Introducing them to social media is another great idea.

 

 

  • Introduce Them to New People

 

Companionship is something people appreciate more as they grow older. While regular visits are helpful, you should also encourage your elderly parents to make new friends. Also, ask their neighbors to check in once in a while to ensure everything is fine.

 

 

  • Encourage Them to Exercise

 

Fitness classes specifically designed for seniors are effective in keeping them healthy and fit. Make sure the fitness program is not too strenuous and safe for your aging family members.

 

 

  • Make Surroundings Comfortable

 

With progressing medical conditions, it might be difficult for your parents to participate in activities. Take them for regular doctor’s appointments to make them as comfortable as possible.

 

 

  • Get Them to Volunteer

 

For some people, their career is everything. But after decades of hard work comes retirement, which can feel like a loss of life’s purpose. If their health allows, you can assist them in finding some volunteer work or even a part-time job.

 

Final Words

At first, finding the right activities and communities can be challenging. But with thorough research and genuine efforts, you can find things that will keep your elderly loved ones engaged and healthy.

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Living

Everything a Parent Wants to Know About Traveling with a Child

Travelexperience
Photo: Courtesy of Wikipedia.com

Gramercy Pediatrics is a state-of-the-art medical facility, housing the pediatric practice of Dr. Dyan Hes and her staff. Together, they provide medical care to children, teens and young adults from birth to college age. In addition to offering the full range of pediatric services, Dr. Hes also specializes in pediatric obesity.

Gramercy Pediatrics has two office locations, one located in Gramercy Park and the other location in Chelsea at 23rd and 9th Ave. Gramercy Pediatrics features four large exam rooms and an on-site laboratory, which speeds test results and makes it possible for parents to accompany their children during blood draws. The facility is completely paperless and uses eClinicalWorks, the leading software application for electronic medical records.

Dr. Hes has created an office where your child’s medical visit will flow seamlessly. The office is wheelchair accessible and has stroller “parking.” Dr. Hes and/or her staff are fluent in English, Spanish, Hebrew, and Russian. We look forward to seeing you and meeting all of your child’s medical needs. Every month we are going to have a new and exciting topic to discuss with you.

“Gramercy Pediatrics is a state-of-the-art medical facility, housing the pediatric practice of Dr. Dyan”

With spring break approaching I field many calls about traveling with kids, particularly babies. For many women, maternity leave is the longest stretch of free travel time they will ever have. A frequent question I hear is, “How early can I travel on a plane?” I often remind families, “Babies can be born on a plane!” That being said, this is not ideal!

What I recommend, is that if you have non-urgent travel, try to wait to have your baby receive her first round of immunizations.  Most infants received the hepatitis B vaccine at birth. After that initial vaccine, the earliest we can give the next set of shots is 45 days of life (6 weeks). I recommend that families wait 1-2 days after vaccinations to travel, thereby giving the baby a chance to respond to the vaccines.  Some babies, though not most, get fussy.  Even if they have a fever it is alright to travel. This post-vaccination fever is not contagious. It is a normal reaction to vaccines.

Flying with a baby is actually easier than a toddler. Babies can sit on your lap until age 2 years on most flights. I recommend that parents with small infants use a baby carrier to arrive at the airport. With all the security checks, it’s a lot easier than unloading your baby and folding up a stroller to put through the security machine. If your baby is too heavy to carry, then try to bring your lightest umbrella stroller to push to the gate and then check it under the plane. Other families choose to bring an infant in a car seat. In this case, you should use something like a snap-and-go, where you can detach the stroller base at the gate and carry the car seat onto the plane. If you bring a car seat onto the plane, you must pay for a seat for the baby. Some international flights offer a bassinet to families sitting in the first row of coach seating. You can ask to reserve this seat ahead of time.

Babies are born with sinuses but they are underdeveloped. Therefore, they really do not start feeling ear pain until 1-2 years.  Most infants do not have any ear pain with flying until the toddler years. By 9 months I recommend having your baby sucking on a pacifier or drinking a bottle/nursing for takeoff and landing just to ensure that their ears equalize. It is also wise to carry some children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen with you in case of pain.

“I recommend that parents with small infants use a baby carrier to arrive at the airport”

Many parents inquire about using Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to make their children sleep on a plane. Just remember that 10% of people have a hyperactivity reaction from Benadryl and do not become sleepy at all. You never want to be that family with the hyperactive child running up and down the plane! Try Benadryl at home one day on the weekend before you fly.

The hardest part of traveling with a toddler or small child is keeping them occupied on the flight. Nowadays, many flights come equipped with TV screens, but not all families use screen time. Try to bring books, crayons, crafts or other small games to keep your child entertained.

“Nowadays, many flights come equipped with TV screens, but not all families use screen time”

For international flights, nighttime travel is best. Parents always ask me about what to do with a child’s schedule when traveling. The truth is that it is not much you can do. For each hour of time difference, there is about one day of jet lag. By the time your baby is adjusted…you are usually on your way home. Wishing everyone safe travels!

-by Dyan Hes, MD Medical Director of Gramercy Pediatrics