Black History Month 2012...Innovators in Science & Much More



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For a comprehensive approach to celebrating Black History Month for your family, Chocolate Chip is your #1 source for information!

As a mom with children in elementary school, I do my best to contribute my time, talents and resources to make a difference.  So when Black History month was a non-event during our first year of enrollment,

I went directly to the PTA president and volunteered myself as the chairman of the Black History Month committee. 

To ensure that the children learned more than our history as slaves, my committee (me and Chocolate Chip mom Tara Lattimer-Wilson) has taken a comprehensive approach by selecting a theme to explore throughout the month.  In 2011, we studied the Harlem Renaissance to demonstrate the intellectual and creative brilliance of African Americans and pay homage to the cultural mecca just a few miles south of our Westchester County neighborhood.   

Check out last year's post from the Chocolate Chip Archives....

The Harlem Renaissance- Brown History for Young People
http://chocolatechiponline.blogspot.com/search?q=brown+history

With the need to emphasize math and science in our schools, we selected Innovators in Science as our theme for 2012.  The banner above sets the tone at the entrance of the school building and depicts 6 of the innovators whose biographies we will explore daily during the morning announcements.  This week we feature Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Mae Jemison, Benjamin Banneker, George Washington Carver and award winning cardiologist and Westchester resident, Dr. Lynn Perry-Bottinger. 

I LOVE Dr. Perry-Bottinger's story!  Her father is a cardiologist (a chip off the ole chocolate block) and her mother is a pediatrician. She has 7 brothers and sisters- one is a lawyer and the other 6 are doctors!  Now that's legacy building for you!  I must add that she's also my sorority sister and a fellow Jack and Jill mom:) 

We're especially proud that one of Pennington's finest appears on the banner, CBS 2 Meteorologist, Elise Finch (ok- I'm a little biased because she's my cousin). Seeing her on television knowing she sat in their seats (literally my daughter's 3rd grade teacher taught her) is so inspiring!

Last year we offered a school wide raffle and gave Black History related prizes to the winners who earned 100% on our weekly Black History quiz. This year we've chosen to donate science related books to each class to ensure there are books telling the stories of African Americans in every classroom. 

I've done the of leg work, so I'm sharing my research with you so you can continue to build your libraries at home:

Kareem Abdul Jabbar's new book for 2nd, 3rd and 4th graders- What Color Is My World?
http://www.amazon.com/What-Color-World-African-American-Inventors/dp/0763645648/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328328455&sr=1-1

African Americans in Science, Math, and Invention
http://www.amazon.com/African-Americans-Science-Math-Invention/dp/0816083312/ref=wl_it_dp_o_npd?ie=UTF8&coliid=I2895I2DKERO8&colid=4W54LTXRH4Z2

Scholastic Reader Level 4: Great Black Heroes: Five Brilliant Scientists: (level 4) k-2nd
http://www.amazon.com/Scholastic-Reader-Level-Brilliant-Scientists/dp/0590480316/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328329366&sr=1-9

Great Black Heroes: Five Notable Inventors (level 4) (Hello Reader) - K -2nd
http://www.amazon.com/Great-Black-Heroes-Notable-Inventors/dp/0590480332/ref=pd_vtp_b_1

Black Pioneers of Science and Invention (ages 10 and up)
http://www.amazon.com/Black-Pioneers-Science-Invention-Louis/dp/0152085661/ref=pd_vtp_b_3

Book of Black Heroes: Scientists, Healers, and Inventors (grades 5 and 6)
http://www.amazon.com/Book-Black-Heroes-Scientists-Inventors/dp/0940975971/ref=wl_mb_hu_m_6_dp 

and from the Chocolate Chip Archives....
Great Reads for Black History Month
http://chocolatechiponline.blogspot.com/2009_02_01_archive.html

Lastly, check out these two terrific family events coming up this weekend:
 
The Junior Teens of the Westchester Chapter of Jack and Jill present, "VOICES: Those Who Wore The Shoe"-"A staged documentary, adapted and directed by Harlin C. Kearsley. Based on actual slave narratives culled from the 1934-1941 Federal Writers' Project interviews, this staged documentary incorporates music, dance and archival photographs to recreate a neglected part of American history".
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Sarah Lawrence College Auditorium
1 Mead Way Bronxville, NY
Donation: $15 per person
Space is limited
Recommended for children 5th grade and up

Third Annual Harlem Fine Arts Show -a leading showcase for modern and contemporary African Diasporic art — “A vital networking and multicultural event for art lovers everywhere, the Harlem Fine Arts Show reflects the diverse demographic and international appeal of popular and cutting edge Afro-centric and Hispanic artists,” said Dion Clarke, Founder of the Harlem Fine Arts Show and President of JWD Enterprises. “Our overarching mission is to support the arts in a way that enriches and educates communities on a global scale, while showcasing Harlem as a cultural hub.”

The Third Annual 2012 Harlem Fine Arts Show will feature a VIP preview reception hosted by transcultural lifestyle expert, author, and restaurateur B. Smith, on Friday, February 10 at the historic Riverside Church 490 Riverside Drive (at 120^th Street) in New York City. A two-day exhibition of more than 100 emerging and established multicultural artists will open to the public on Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12. Tickets for the art show are $20 and will be available for purchase at http://hfas.org/tickets or by calling Porcia Gardner at (914) 450-4269. Students from public, independent and charter schools in the tri-state area, as well as members of the military in uniform will be granted admission at no cost.

The 2011 Chocolate Chip Guide to Christmas

Welcome to the Chocolate Chip Guide to Christmas 2011....

We've made our list and checked it twice...

Here are a few of our favorite things of the holiday season:

Our favorite television programs......

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Truly a classic!! My brother, cousin and I used to ROFL watching those kids rock out to Schroeder's tunes on the piano!!! I know EVERY dance- Do you?  Now even my 7 year old even joins in!

It's not Christmas until my mother hears Linus respond to Charlie Brown's plea:

"Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?"

Check it out on hulu now:

http://www.hulu.com/watch/198677/a-charlie-brown-christmas

The Sound of Music

"The hills are alive....."

I absolutely LOVE watching the Sound of Music which traditionally airs the week between Christmas and New Year's Day. The music, the songs, great plot and story line...Just LOVE it!

Watch this classic and sing all the songs with the children.

New addition to our 2011 guide..."It's a Wonderful Life" The timeless classic starring Jimmy Stewart helps us to reassess what's truly important in life.  You can usually catch it on Christmas Eve.

The Arts....

Alvin Ailey- Revelations

"I've been 'buked and I've been scorned...."

Sinner Man, Fix Me Jesus, I Wanna Be Ready, Wadin' in the Water.....I LOVE every movement of this signature classic of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre.

Without a doubt my most favorite activity of the season!  So excited to be taking my 7 year old ballerina for the first time this year. 

At least one tear (who am I kidding, MANY) will find its way down my cheek as I watch mesmerized by the strength, beauty, fire, power, joy and grace of this American classic set to the Negro spirituals. Revelations touches my soul every time!

Catch Ailey at the New York City Center now thru January 1, 2012. You won't regret it.

http://www.alvinailey.org/

The Nutcracker Ballet

Whether you see the NYC Ballet perform George Balachine's The Nutcracker (I promise to treat myself in 2012) http://www.nycballet.com/ticketing/2011nuts.html (thru December 31st) or a local more modest production, the story of Clara and her most favorite Christmas gift set to Tchaikovsky's score is not to be missed.

Special Events...

The 20th Anniversary Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Gardens

 

Thru Jan 9, 2012 up in the Bronx where the people are fresh...(my hometown).  Check out what is without a doubt the BEST way to see NYC!

http://www.nybg.org/home-holiday-train-show.php

March of The Wooden Soldiers

As performed by the Rockettes at the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City thru January 2, 2012

Ah this brings back such fond memories of my high school years....Shout out to Cardinal Spellman's Flag Corps who perform it annually  http://www.radiocitychristmas.com/newyork/index.html

And the traditional NYC spots....

The Tree at Rockefeller Center

 

Check out the tree and watch the skaters and while you're there watch the Christmas Light Show across the street that beams off of the facade of Saks Fifth Avenue.

Although we've yet to brave the cold and long wait at Rockefeller Center, your local ice skating rink will certainly do the trick.  We're particularly impressed with World Ice Arena in Flushing Meadows Cororna Park

 http://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/iceskating/10

Nothing follows ice skating better than...

Hot cocoa in a mug!

For 2011 we've added a new Westchester spot to our fav list.

And don't forget Spencer's secret ingredient: a dash of cinnamon

MarieBelle Soho: The Cacao Bar

484 Broome St, between Wooster St and West Broadway

Simply divine European-style Aztec Hot Chocolate- YUMMMMMM!!!!

Cocoa Chocolate Shop

2107A Boston Post Road

Larchmont, NY 10538

Phone: 914.834.6464

http://cocoachocolateshop.com/

Check out Mommy Poppins Ultimate NYC Hot Chocolate Crawl for other spots throughout the city

http://mommypoppins.com/newyorkcitykids/ultimate-nyc-hot-chocolate-crawl

Don't forget to add Your Personal Touch...

A warm gathering of family and friends. Potluck with the girls night out crew or your neighbors. In all the "busy"ness of our demanding schedules make sure you make time to share joy with those you love.

Your signature holiday dish

Like my Aunt Nora's cookies!  Mine is CHEESECAKE!! Ask my husband, the kids, their pediatrician (even her husband and staff put in their requests) and teachers...

I only whip them up for the holidays which makes them an extra special treat!

I'm also known for my Gingerbread Waffles (thanks Rachel Ray).

Share you speciality with the Chocolate Chip family:)

and finally but FOREMOST...

The Reason for the Season: Celebrate the birth of Christ

Join our church family.  Your invitation is open and endless!

Christian Cultural Center

12020 Flatlands Avenue Brooklyn, NY

http://cccinfo.org/

Whatever you do make this blessed and joyous holiday season an extra special one for you and your family.

From our family to yours,

Merry Christmas!!!!!! 

Prospero ano y felicidad! 

Wishing you prosperity and happiness in the New Year!



THE FINAL STRETCH: The Private School Application Process

I know that we're not alone as we prepare for the final stages of the admission process for independent schools for the 2012-13 academic year.  The recruitment events, open houses and informational sessions have ended.  The applications have been/are being submitted.  Parent interviews are being conducted. Student visits scheduled and entrance exams are being administered.  It can be a daunting and demanding process but it's one of the journeys many parents take on their quest for academic excellence for their children. 

With the admissions deadlines quickly approaching, I reached out to our friend, Gina Parker Collins, Founder of RIISE- Resources in Independent School Education to get some last minute words of wisdom for parents in the final stretch.


Indeed, we are approaching the holiday season wrought with festivities, pageantry, gift wrapping, and gift giving. It is a race to the finish struggling to be mindful of the value of family and the time we spend together.


Some families have a competing race at this time of year, the private school application process. Some have crossed the finish line and completed the process, while others are still looking and hoping for opportunities to find the right school that's still looking for great candidates.

Here are a few things to keep top of mind:

* If you've completed the process then take a breather and enjoy the holidays. But, if you have not sent a thank you note send one, then take a breather!

*The interview. What should you expect?  What does the admissions team want to know? What are they looking for? Remember you are in the driver's seat too, so ask thoughtful questions. The Admission team wants to like you. They also want to know that your family will contribute your time, talents or both. As for your child, let them know they have the stage, the spotlight, the chance to share what they know and love.

*Search out current families in your close and distant circles for insight on the culture of the school community to make sure that what you love about school really exists.

*Make sure your first choice school knows they are number one. Beware!  Be honest about your first choice.  There can only be one!

*Work on a Plan B. It is very important to have a strategy for attending the best possible school if your child doesn't get accepted to any of your choices. There are good charters and public schools out there but you have to do the research. Let’s Talk Schools http://letstalkschools.com/  is a great online community to check out.

*Be prepared financially. Financial aid or not, tuition is a fiscal responsibility, for a long time. Think of it, K-12...you do the math.  If you have applied for support pray you get what you need (you’ll know when you get acceptance letter). If you don't, please don’t give up, I have seen success in the appeal process.

*Lastly, if you are not accepting the offer of placement please notify the school immediately with a thank you note so they can offer the space and financial support to another family.

Perhaps you are a family just starting to consider private independent schools, it is never too early to start looking. Ask around and visit school websites. Begin to think about your values and personalities as a family and match them up with schools mission. Think about what your families return on investment should, or can be. The spring is a great time to begin to make appointments to casually tour campuses. Organizations like Prep for Prep http://prepforprep.org/, Oliver Scholars http://www.theoliverprogram.org/ , and Reach http://reachprep.org/ are great prep programs for the older kids, and Early Steps http://www.earlysteps.org/ for the younger. Make sure to visit us often at RIISE, http://www.4riise.org/ and check out Family Voices blogs, RIISE spotlights, Workshops & Events, from a parent of color’s perspective on independent schools.


Happy Holidays & Phenomenal New Year Chocolate Chip!

Gina Parker Collins

RIISE

2nd Annual Independent School Recruitiment Event- 10/16/11

With the 2011-12 school year in full swing, the 2012-13 admissions cycle for Independent Schools is just beginning.  It's the perfect time for the 2nd Annual Fall Boutique Recruitment Event (FBRE) hosted by Resources in Independent School Education (RIISE).  Chocolate Chip is proud to serve as this year's social media sponsor. 

As a parent who personally will be diving into the application process this fall (be sure to follow our journey over the next few months), I can't emphasize enough how important it is to tool up for the road ahead by attending this event.  This is the perfect opportunity to speak one-on-one with admissions staff, alumni/current students and parents from multiple schools under one roof.  Last year's panel discussion was SO informative and I'm confident this year will take us to another level.  Attendees really get a unique opportunity to consider the value of an independent school education, learn the ins and outs of the admissions process, discuss the financial commitment, gain insight into the philosophy of the various schools and how best to position your child in a competitive process.

Plan to spend your afternoon this Sunday 10/16/11 on the campus of Sarah Lawrence with RIISE and a host of Independent Schools from Riverdale to Connecticut.  Reserve your seat today!  Check out the link below for details.

http://www.4riise.org/2011/09/save-the-date-2nd-annual-fall-boutique-recruitment-event/

From the Chocolate Chip Archives....filmed in 2010 prior to the 1st Annual FBRE, this video blog with RIISE CEO/Founder Gina Parker Collins explores the value of independent school education and why it might be the right choice for your family.

http://chocolatechiponline.blogspot.com/2010/09/4-days-to-independent-school.html

Who Runs the World....GIRLS!

The girls of JG3 at Mount Tom Day Camp danced to Beyonce's "Run the World (Girls)" in yesterday's talent show, so the song has been pumping through my iPad the last few days.  I've even learned a few of the steps so Brooke and I both get a kick out of dancing together!  Luckily my 7yr old doesn't understand what "who runs this mutha" means so we're all good....but I digress. 

Anyway....it made me think back to Jada Pinkett Smith's book Girls Hold Up This World.  As a new first time mom to a little girl, I remember tearing up on first sight of the cover displayed in the front window of the bookstore as I strolled by.  The picture of Jada and a young Willow (we should've known then that she'd be whipping her hair less than a decade later) pierced straight through my heart.  I rushed in and immediately purchased it and it quickly became apart of our bedtime routine.  A photo book depicting girls across the world in all ages and stages coupled with an empowerimg message throughout makes it one of those books that should be in the library of every mom with a girl.

Happy Reading!

http://www.amazon.com/Girls-Hold-Up-This-World/dp/0439087937

I AM a Pretty Brown Girl!

What a BEAUTIFUL family!  Chocolate Chip is where family comes FIRST!  Since we CONNECT INSPIRE and TRANSFORM families, we are THRILLED to introduce the Chocolate Chip family to..

Pretty Brown Girl. 

Founded by Sheri Crawley, "Pretty Brown Girl’s (PBG) mission is to empower girls to love themselves and encourage cultural awareness."  What I love most about PBG is the pledge, which our 7 year old Brooke proudly recited along with her 11 year old cousin, Kailiah.  The PBG pledge aims "to encourage confidence, inspire dreams and empower from within."

  While you're there don't forget to stop by the shop.  Just in time for September, pick up / Pretty Brown Girl-My First Day of School by Sheri Crawley

 for the newly minted kindergartner.  Your special little girl can rock out in a PBG t-shirt or the Pink Chiffon Pettiskirt with Brown Ruffled Layers if you have a budding fashionista on your hands like me:)

Become a part of the MOVEMENT!  Share the pledge with every pretty, brown girl you know!

http://www.prettybrowngirl.com/pbg-pledge/

Girls Inc Westchester- Power of the Purse

Save the Date: 
October 5, 2011

Girls Inc Westchester's inaugural gala, Power of the Purse, will take place on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at 6:30pm at LIFE: The Place to Be in Ardsley, NY.  "This high-fashion fundraising fete will encourage guests to invest in the next generation of women leaders by supporting Girls Inc. programs that develop economic literacy and financial independence for Westchester County girls."


Click on link below for more details.

http://www.westchester.com/news/westchesternews/community/15522-girls-inc-westchester-to-host-power-of-the-purse-gala.html

For more information on Girls Inc.’s ‘Power of the Purse’ gala, contact Barbara Weinstein at Girls Inc. at (914) 419-0764 or visit http://www.girlsincwestchester.org/.  Spread the word and be sure you tell them you read about it on Chocolate Chip:)

Disclosure: Jasmine Bellamy is a member of the Power of the Purse Committe, Girls Inc. Westchester