UrbanBaby

Dear UrbanBaby community,

Thank you so much for being a valued member of the UrbanBaby community. We wanted to inform you that we are shutting down the site on July 6th. We are grateful for your participation and support that has helped make UrbanBaby such an important resource to parents for many years.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can email us at urbanbaby-support@cbsinteractive.com.

Thanks so much,

UrbanBaby Support

[ - ] Are people at Gymboree friendly? Is it easy to make friends? 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:59 AM Flag

same as everywhere - some people are friendly, some not. some you'll want to see again, some not. If you're looking for parent friends, though, it's worth it - took ds at 7 wks and made friends I still have four years later [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:07 AM Flag

[ - ] 12 weeks and just started on bed rest. what on earth am i going to do for the next 6 months! I just want to cry. :-( 10 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:57 AM Flag

I'm so sorry--is this your first or do have other kids? That would be so hard. I had one friend on bed rest w/ twins and I visited her & taught her to knit so at least she could keep her hands busy. Maybe something like that? Get some great books? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:58 AM Flag

This is my first...and from the way this is going I might make it my last!! thanks for the sympathy. :-) [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:00 AM Flag

same happened to me - i'm sorry. i got a good laptop, bought lots of stuff for the baby online, read, slept, learned how to knit, scrapbooked my honeymoon (have been married 4 years) and picked out my wedding album. good luck to you - i was on bed rest in the hospital. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:59 AM Flag

ohhh wedding album! such a good idea! as soon as dh gets home I am making him dig out our photos. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:02 AM Flag

wht do they have you on bed rest? Have you gotten a second opinion? My ob wanted to put me on bed rest after being hospitalized twice for bleeding. I went to a perinatal md who told me he really doesn't believe in it. I took his advice and just took it very very easy. Gave birth to healthy twins at 37 weeks. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:01 AM Flag

wow!! I am on rest bc i went into labor and almost lost baby. was in hosp for 2 weeks finally released. i still have contractions. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:04 AM Flag

do they know why you went into labor? My doctor told me that preterm labot is caused by an infection...and it can't really be stopped. It is not caused from taking a shower, walking around slowly, etc. There have been studies that docs put people on bedrest because they don't know what else to do. And bedrest itself causes depression, low muscle tone and other ailments. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:07 AM Flag

read this: http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F02E4DC173BF930A35751C0A9629C8B63&scp=2&sq=bed%20rest&st=cse [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:08 AM Flag

and this: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/24/opinion/24bilston.html?_r=1&scp=3&sq=bed%20rest&st=cse&oref=slogin [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:12 AM Flag

I don't mean to freak you out, but you shouldn't blindly listen to your doctors either. Do some research and make sure that this is the right decision for you. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:15 AM Flag

[ - ] I love my work!!!! I'm sitting here reading a book proposal from one of my authors and smiling how much fun it is to read and what a great job he did. 18 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:57 AM Flag

question: how does one get a children's book published?? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:04 AM Flag

Don't bother getting it illustrated unless you, yourself, are an artist. Create a manuscript that maps out what text and general idea of pictures on each page/spread. (Most children's books are 32 pages, including title page, copyright info, etc). The write an engaging about the author page, including any publicity access you may have, and query about a million agents. You won't get any traction with the publishing houses without an agent. There are websites including agentquery.net that list agents by specialty. Hope that helps. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:09 AM Flag

thanks. very helpful. One question, the manuscript should be sent in layed out as it would appear in a book? My workshop teacher told me it should be printed out double spaced in manuscript form. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:13 AM Flag

Yes, double-spaced ms style. But what you'd want to do is indicate what text/images would appear on what page. So for instance: [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:20 AM Flag

Sorry, hit return by accident. Page 6 - 7: "I really want it," Jennifer whined. "Please, mommy, please!" [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:21 AM Flag

Ok, so then after that, I would write: Page 8-9 "blah blah" [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:24 AM Flag

Yes, and if you have some image ideas you would put that underneath in parentheses. (Jennifer is clutching her mother's leg and looking up at her longingly. Her mother is trying to pry her off.) [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:27 AM Flag

thank you. you've been so helpful. Is it really hard to get an agent? I'm in a workshop and the feedback for my book has been overwhelmingly positive. It's a picture book, but on the long side. Almost 3000 words and for slightly older kids, maybe 4-6. or even 5-7. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:31 AM Flag

That word count and age is a tough one. What I would do is go to the bookstore, pull out the best books in that age range and do a word count. If you are dramatically over, you might consider editing. This is also make your page mapping very important. You have to vary the count on each page, give it the best rhythm, etc. Because so many kids at that age are starting to read, you have to determine if this is a book parents are reading to kids or an early reader, which this sounds too long to be... [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:33 AM Flag

no, it isn't an early reader. It really has to be a picture book, I think. How hard is it to get an agent? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:36 AM Flag

see below [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:41 AM Flag

It's good that you like it...cuz i'm sure you getting paid much. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:25 AM Flag

^^^you're not getting paid much. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:25 AM Flag

You're right. This will be my best year and I'll be lucky if I pull in 70K. But considering that I work about 1/2 to 2/3 time, that seems great to me. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:28 AM Flag

Unfortunately pretty darn hard. You truly will have to query dozens and dozens. Then be patient. So many won't get back to you at all. Those who do will most likely take months. I would not suggest sending your project now. August is such a dead time in the industry I would worry you would get overlooked. Now let's talk angle: two things - 1. Do you have any publicity possibilitys, ie ties to newspapers, mags, famous people? 2. Do you have a unique take? What's the basic story line? There are certain arcs they look for -- a child's learning curve, a lost and found story (knuffle bunny), going to sleep, diversity, acceptance, etc. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:41 AM Flag

wow, not the most connected person. The story has a really nice arc..that was something I worked on a lot. I don't want to give too many details but it's about a boy who overcomes things. He is changed as are the kids who were teasing him. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:44 AM Flag

In children's books it's not necessary or very common, but trust me, it sure does help! Think hard. You might be surprised at what you have and didn't realize. If you don't, don't stretch for it because it won't seem sincere. And that's a good, classic arc. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:50 AM Flag

thanks so much for your help! [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:59 AM Flag

[ - ] How often do you paint your house (cedar clapboard)? 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:55 AM Flag

I thought you don't paint cedar [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:00 AM Flag

[ - ] I wonder if I should be applying for K for my DD this fall....she's starting preK at a lovely K-8 school, but tested really well this year (99's on ERB, OLSAT and SB). I hate to move her for '09 when she's starting a new school in '08, but I wonder if I should be trying for these so-called "TT" schools for her. 33 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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NY Schools 07.16.08, 06:55 AM Flag

Which school is this, town? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:58 AM Flag

Why the rush to do PK? And did you apply to some of the top (if not TT) ongoings with PKs? Why did you have her take ERB when it's not nec for PK? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:59 AM Flag

OK...no rush to do pre K, she's 4 and a half and needs to be in school so she's going to pre K in the fall. I can't keep her home at age 4 and a half! I only know of one TT ongoing w/ prek and that's HM and she was waitlisted, and she took the ERB two months ago because I'm thinking of applying her for other schools for K, which is what I'm asking about. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:07 AM Flag

Just wondering. Did you not do preschool? Because most kids do PK at preschool. I just think sending a child to different schools in successive years if not totally necessary is tough. Also you won't get much support for the process with your K-8 and dd will have to skip a lot of school in the fall to do all the playdates, etc. Meaning she won't be able to acclimate really well. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:11 AM Flag

Good points, all. This will be her first year of real school. She did a separation program last year twice a week but not at a school that had a real Pre K attached. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:21 AM Flag

This again? There is still active thread on this a mile long, go read it. If you wanted TT why did you apply to preK at all? Other than HM none of the TT schools have it. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:10 AM Flag

OP: Sorry...what does that thread start with so I can find it? To answer your question about preK, she is too young for K this year and is ready for school so we sent her to Pre K. I can't keep her home another year and the private K's are very strict about their age cut-offs. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:12 AM Flag

I would. If current school is not academically rigorous or has peers at her level. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:15 AM Flag

how can I tell if they are academically rigorous at the Pre-K level? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:17 AM Flag

who would want academic rigor in pre-k? The kids are FOUR. they should be gaining a love of learning, and learning to be independent and to get along with others. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:22 AM Flag

OP: yes this is my point exactly. The previous poster said I should move DD if the current school isnot academically rigorous enough, and I'm asking how can I tell at the Pre K level. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:26 AM Flag

You can't but you can do research on the upper levels. Talk to parents with kids in grades 5 - 8. Find out which ongoing schools they go to. Look at their website, do a search on it on UB and other boards. You can get a general sense of whether you think it's a fit. If it is, then don't get swayed by the brand name thing. You can always apply her for 9th. Let her be. If you really think she won't thrive, then consider the move. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:30 AM Flag

I think that poster was assuming that you want TT for K b/c you are afraid that she is "to smart" for the kids at her school and that you want academic rigour. I think the truth is there are plenty of exceptionally smart kids at almost all of the NYC privates today and if you like the philosophy of the school she is enrolled at and you think she will be happy there, you should leave her there and not apply out at this point. You said it ends at 8th grade, so you already know she will go somewhere else for high school and you can wait and decide when you really know what kind of school is right for her where to apply when she is in middle school. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:30 AM Flag

OR: oh, I assumed the prek is an ongoing. If stand alone, then she has to apply to ongoings anyway. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:31 AM Flag

it is. she said the school is k-8, but she must have meant pre-k - 8. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:32 AM Flag

>I'm not talking about academic rigor or intellectual peers for prek or K. But if it goes up to higher grades, it will make a diff. Do you know how many parents post here about "my very smart kid at 2nd tier or 3rd tier school is languishing. waiting for others to catch up and dislikes school now. we liked the school feel and community and how it wasn't stressful, but we are now looking to move dc to TT." [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:34 AM Flag

hijack: we are in a similar position. Our db in in pre-K of a K-8 school but we think of applying out in the fall. How easy is it to move? I was always assuming the school will give us a hard time if we want to leave and the TT will not take us seriously. Any advice? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:53 AM Flag

You apply, explain to the current school why as you need their cooperation with school reports, and hope for the best. What else can you do? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:55 AM Flag

OP: This is exactly my concern. Do you think I should be diong it now at the K level because that is a natural entry point? Or should I let DD stay at her new school for a few years rather than switching her right after she starts? DD may be very bright but she is emotionally immature and does not separate well. Going to school is a big deal and I'm not sure if I should be uprooting her after only 1 year. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:54 AM Flag

If your DD is emotionally immature and does not separate well, odds of TT acceptance are not very high as they generally want mature kids. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:57 AM Flag

OP: I think she will be fine and I think she is on par with her age. It's just that she is so mature academically, it's out of synch. She reads at a 1st grade level but is a 4 year old in her heart. I doj't think she comes off as especially imature, I just didn't want to put her into K as teh youngest child for her first school experience, especially since wecan afford private. That's all I'm saying. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:13 AM Flag

Easier to move now than later. TTs have few spots, if at all, later and you can't apply into every grade. I'd think it'd be harder to change after investing so many years at this ongoing. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:57 AM Flag

OP will have to change for 9th since school is K-8. And there is a danger of ruffling feathers with the current school and then having to stay. But if her heart is set on TT, she should go for it. I would not apply to 10+ schools though, that is way too disruptive. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:06 AM Flag

I would try to move her next year for K. This is the main entry point for most TTs. Also, there are many more excellent choices for girls than boys. Yes, it will be a bit tough, but kids are actually quite resilient at this age. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:58 AM Flag

if you like the school you've enrolled her in, why are you changing? Look deep and decide if you think it's about having a shot at more status and bragging rights? the truth is a high-scoring dc will do very well at any private. you should be figuring out which school is the best fit for her, not which school is the best to drop in conversation later on. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:19 AM Flag

OP: oh blow me. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 01:33 PM Flag

WOW. I was following this thread and thought you were a nice person. That was totally uncalled for. It was a legitimate question. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 01:41 PM Flag

it ws not a legitimate question. It was an annoying, patronizing, obnoxious lecture from someone so clueless about who they are that they have to take on the tone of an advice collumnist or a woman's magazine writer. Drop the condescending tone. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 02:18 PM Flag

np; ITA. Before UB/YB split, there was at least one or two posts a day on moms with very smart kids at 2nd tier schools who were looking to move kids to TTs later on. These people liked their original 2nd tier schools for geography/philsophy/feel of community, but as their kids got older, and their kids weren't engaged enough/academically stimulated enough due to slower class in general, they sought out an option to move. Don't think it was about ego. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 05:57 PM Flag

Thanks....I guess I don't want to find myself in that same circumstance, knowing how hard it is to move between K and 6th, but also not wanting to uproot DD without just cause. i guess in the end I will go ahead and get the applications and start the process, knowing I can pull out before the December deadlines and only lose my application fees. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:11 PM Flag

Wait, you'd pull her out of school before she's admitted elsewhere? Does she have a good public option or repeat prek? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:55 PM Flag

My dc is at Grace which we've found to be a quite academically challenging preK-8 (ramping up gradually). 6th grade chemistry is more than I had in high school. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:10 PM Flag

I just saw the cover. For the record I think it is hilarious. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.17.08, 08:03 AM Flag

[ - ] When did DD outgrow Graco Snugride? DD is 7 mo and 27.5 inches and she seems uncomfortable. What to buy next? TIA! 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:54 AM Flag

Right about then. I'm a big fan of Britax. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:01 AM Flag

[ - ] OK this is weird. DD is going to Brearley and we are very happy. Each morning I see the Chapin plant we got from the play date on our window. It is growing strong. I really liked Chapin and considered it equal to Brearley. I also liked the Chapin girls that I met there but chose Brearley because it was a better fit for us. Each morning the damn plant keeps saying to me, "Should have sent her to Chapin". I have considered getting rid of the plant but I am afraid it will give me 13 years bad luck if I throw it out. 26 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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NY Schools 07.16.08, 06:50 AM Flag

They still give a plant, gee, that gift is over 40 years old. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:50 AM Flag

They are great great schools, each of them and not as different as you may think. We have one at each and really we see very little difference. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:52 AM Flag

If the plant is upsetting you and you don't want to throw it away give it to someone. Be happy with your choice. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:52 AM Flag

yeah. just give it away. your dd will be very happy at brearly. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:15 AM Flag

would never have chosen ss, but if I had (or even looked at them, my guess is we would have preferred Brearley. Just the sound of the school from Ub seems it can accomodate a more diverse (in terms of personalities and everything else) group of people. I would not worry about chapin. if brearley felt like a better fit, this is likely just cold feet. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:19 AM Flag

While I think Brearley is great, we found just the opposite. OP and her dd will be very happy I am sure [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:06 AM Flag

Not into SS either, but I found Brearley and Chapin to be similar in terms of diversity. Well, at least visibly. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:07 AM Flag

Our Chapin plant died but our dd is going to Dalton. FWIW I would have chosen Brearley had she been accepted there. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:53 AM Flag

Opposite here. Would have sent dd to Dalton if accepted, but happy still at Brearley. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:09 AM Flag

LOL, same here. Dd will be going to a coed but Chapin was our 2nd choice. Really loved Chapin. That Chapin plant is darn strong. Sometimes, I don't even water for 2 weeks and it's still not dead. Sometimes, I have buyer's regret and wonder if we should have gone with Chapin (bec the girls I met were so nice and everyone I met there). I since replanted it to a bigger pot. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:03 AM Flag

We've replanted ours three times since we got it in the fall [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:07 AM Flag

It's like a cactus, except it's not. I think it's brilliant for Chapin to give out plants. I had dd water the plant everyday in the beginning and she used to be so excited to water her own Chapin plant. She wanted to go there and we formed an emotional attachment to them. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:11 AM Flag

hope you feel better getting this off your chest -- you made the right choice for you if B is a "better fit". fwiw, my DD is happily headed to S but our Chapin plant is still growing strong and now just one of many in her window garden. maybe you need more plants? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:10 AM Flag

Poster below - headed to S this fall? So are we. Are you and your DD looking forward to it? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:35 AM Flag

of course! aren't you? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.17.08, 01:50 PM Flag

Toss the plant. We are in the same situation - turned down C for Spence and have some second thoughts - but we need to be happy for our good fortune and move on. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:32 AM Flag

np We did the same inside the past few years; dd is very happy at Spence:) [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 11:48 AM Flag

Glad to hear it. They are both wonderful schools and I'm sure either of our girls would thrive at either place. We are very excited and feel very lucky. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 01:31 PM Flag

what were your second thoughts? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.17.08, 01:57 PM Flag

DD going into Brearley first grade. She had a great year and I just watered the now enormous Chapin plant this morning. Don't worry! [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:03 AM Flag

what kind of plant is it? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:04 AM Flag

mother of a thousand daughters -- or something like that. it is a succulent plant that is not quite a cactus and spawns many offspring. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:06 AM Flag

Did all you people really have a choice among these schools? My dd attends Chapin, but while B was interested in her, we had to tell our PSD which school we really wanted. I [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.17.08, 04:07 PM Flag

What kind of ERBs did your girls have? For those who have responded to this post .... [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.17.08, 04:20 PM Flag

95 [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.17.08, 04:27 PM Flag

99x3. Dd got into Spence and Chapin. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.20.08, 07:06 AM Flag

[ - ] What time is it right now in "mountain time"? 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:43 AM Flag

ET -2 hours [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:45 AM Flag

Thank you very much!! [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:46 AM Flag

[ - ] Making dinner for a friend that just had twins (and has a four year old). I myself just had baby #3 a few weeks ago so can't make anything too elaborate but was going to brine and grill chicken, make a tomato and cucumber salad with feta and olives, dessert, wine, but feel like i am missing something- any suggestions? 5 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:42 AM Flag

op-forgot, fresh bread too. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:43 AM Flag

its fine. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:44 AM Flag

Sounds great to me. How about an live oil and balsamic dish to dip the bread in. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:45 AM Flag

what about a starter or hor d ouvre [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:45 AM Flag

good grief. In my world, lassagna, garlic bread and a salad would be thrilling if someone dropped it off after having a child. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:46 AM Flag

[ - ] Anybody ever head of Imagine Early Learning at Mt. Sinai? I just got a job at sinai and they offered a place in the pre-school/daycare for my daughter. Do I do this? DH wants a nanny, but I want some socialization for her. wwyd? 3 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:40 AM Flag

I don't know anything about it. Go and look and see what you think. If you like it go for it. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:43 AM Flag

^I would always prefer a good daycare to a nanny [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:44 AM Flag

I know people happy at the Brooklyn Heights one and I knew of a family (they just left NYC) that was happy there. You can spy on them at the 98th & 5th Avenue park - I've seen them there at maybe 11am? They have red shirts on over their clothes when they are there. The caregivers look warm. DS goes to daycare, and it's a pain when he is sick but otherwise I like daycare. One of my issues is that they aren't outside as much as they would be with a nanny but Imagine seems to really utilize Central Park. GL. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 12:06 PM Flag

[ - ] Heard the loveliest name the other day. Yara..so pretty. But I don't have the nerve to use it. 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:31 AM Flag

Like it, don't love it. Sounds Yak-ish [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:41 AM Flag

yada yada yada\ [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:45 AM Flag

don't like it at all. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:03 AM Flag

I agree, it's lovely. What "nerve"? Name your dd a name you think is beautiful. I love my dd's unusual name and it makes me happy every time I say it. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:19 AM Flag

[ - ] Do you count day 1 of your cycle the first day of any blood or the first day of real red "flow"? I usually spot for a couple days prior? Thanks. Sorry if tmi. 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:25 AM Flag

I think it is the first day of any flow, no matter how slow [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:26 AM Flag

Even if it's really light? Like just a "tinge" of pink when you wipe? Gross, I know. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:28 AM Flag

[ - ] how do you pronounce "nalgene"? stupid, I know. 0 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:24 AM Flag

[ - ] Can anyone recommend an UES restaurant to take a group of 10 for my birthday dinner? I'm bored with the old standbys. No sushi (pregnant), mexican or Indian (stepdad doesn't like). 7 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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New York City 07.16.08, 06:09 AM Flag

We went to Rectangles after the Marathon with around 10 people. Also Pig Heaven is good for accomodating big groups and is really great with kids. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:30 AM Flag

That is really funny. Rectangles is the place we have a reservation at already. Go there all the time. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:32 AM Flag

Cafe D'Alsace on 88th and 2nd. so great. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:32 AM Flag

too big a crowd for that place [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:57 AM Flag

also v. noisy. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:09 AM Flag

Atlantic Grill (they have sushi, but mostly it's fish, and they have other entrees too). [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:34 AM Flag

There is a new steak house on 3rd at around 90th that looks nice. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:56 AM Flag

[ - ] OK - preschool essays! Any rules of thumb as to length (ie when the app includes a few blank lines but lets you submit a separate page if you like)? Also, any website or book that has samples or advice, not to copy obviously, but to give a feel for this "genre" 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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New York City 07.16.08, 06:06 AM Flag

No idea. None of the preschools we applied to requested them. GL [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:19 AM Flag

stick to the lines. less is more. read their literature and modify it when writing essays. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:20 AM Flag

[ - ] crisis advice needed - English family moving to NY in September for dh's career. We can have private school fees paid but from reading these boards I have no idea where to begin getting our 10, 8 and 6 yr old dcs into a school of any kind at all. Am I going to have to homeschool? 62 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:05 AM Flag

I would retain the services of a schools consultant ASAP. One name that I see floated here a lot is Robin Aronow. If you search her last name on UB, maybe you can get her contact info. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:07 AM Flag

thank you helpful person. I will look her up. Do those consultants provide a kind of contacts service or is it just advisory? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:09 AM Flag

I don't really know. All I know is that Robin Aronow is extremely knowledgeable about the NYC public system, and I assume about the private scene as well. I know that she has contacts within the DOE (the Dept of Education), and people at the DOE seem to give her information that they don't make available to the outside world. You should email her and ask her your questions. I'm certain there are other schools consultants also, but I don't know any names. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:12 AM Flag

hmmm, you seem to know a lot about Robin Aronow...might you be her or just a "friend"? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:34 AM Flag

My English friend moved over recently and got her 3 kids into the British School without difficulty. As far as I know it was the first school they approached. Her eldest is 8 and I don't know what age the school goes up to. GL [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:18 AM Flag

great - will try. Thank you [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:32 AM Flag

The curriculum will be what your kids are used to and I've heard it's a great building etc. I'm from UK too but dcs only at preschool age. GL for your move. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:36 AM Flag

np; You probably could. BIS is not much in demand. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:18 AM Flag

If you want an international school w/a Bac program there is also UNIS & Lesai Francais (wrong spelling but in a rush) & I think there is an Italian school as well [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:58 AM Flag

Lycee [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:00 AM Flag

I think British International School holds a number of spots for UK children whose parents are moving here on a temp basis [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 05:46 PM Flag

call and join the parents league they will have a list of schools which have potential openings. They do have people in the summer who will assist in school searches even though they are closed. Also consider moving into a good public zone such as ps 87, 234 or 6 [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:32 AM Flag

We were you 4 years ago. This is what I found if you are interested in private: 1) call all the schools immediately and ask them if they have any openings or even if they can meet your dcs (they will probably tell you that dcs need to be tested via the ERB); 2) at the same time, you can call Parents' League as they act as a clearing house for private school openings/info; and 3) you can work with a consultant (which I found in the end to be counter-productive which is another story). We had 3 to 4 choices in the end. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:40 AM Flag

^^The timing might work for you because a large part of tuition was due recently. This means the schools have a very good idea of real places, as some families at this point may give up a spot, even after signing the contract, but before the balloon payment is due. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:53 AM Flag

I'd look into the British International School too. It's new so people here think less of it and therefore they aren't flooded with applications (yet...and who cares what others think). I'm sure it's fine and like poster said above the curriculum will be similar to what your dcs had in the past [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:42 AM Flag

I know a teacher at that school and she thinks it is good - she is English too. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:46 AM Flag

your best option is definately the British International School. If you don't like it you can always apply in the fall for next year. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:21 AM Flag

This is OP - I had to step away but just wanted to say thanks everyone for all your help. At least I have a few things to try rather than flapping around in a panic. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:44 AM Flag

have you talked to the school that you have now? Someone a week ago was moving from London, and found out that there school had a sister school in NYC that the kids could move into without applications. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:49 AM Flag

my kids are in state (public) schools in London so don't think this is an option. I'm quite interested to see how their education compares with US kids of the same age though - I expect they will have to get used to spelling colour and theatre differently [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:51 AM Flag

I imagine they are advanced in some things and will be behind in others (like American History). That was my cousins' experience in moving from London to NYC [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:53 AM Flag

theatre is fine, but colour they will have to change [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:56 AM Flag

If your dcs are in public schools in London why not give public schools a shot in NY? There are some that are excellent. Move to a neighborhood that has a good elementary school. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:04 AM Flag

OP: we are in a slightly weird position where we get school fees paid but have to manage our own housing costs so not sure we could afford an area with a great school. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:08 AM Flag

not all expensive areas have great schools and vice/versa. What area are you considering moving to, we might be able to help [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:11 AM Flag

I have friends in Washington Heights so we were goign to start looking there. But all ideas very welcome! [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:13 AM Flag

Washington Heights is good, but high up in Manhattan. It is not expensive, and I do know there are some good public schools there (my cousin teaches at one). What is your budget? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:14 AM Flag

not sure on budget yet - depends on whether we rent or sell the London place. Should also say location needs to be easy access to Lincoln Center - I also have a 12 year old who will transfer from the Royal Ballet School to SAB - the A train is our friend which is why I thoguht of Wash Heights! [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:17 AM Flag

doesnt your 12 yo also need to go to school? You can be anywhere near the A/C or 1/2/3 trains for Lincoln center [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:18 AM Flag

she does but I understand there are some schools who work with SAB to accommodate dancer's hours and the ballet school is going to help us with those for her. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:19 AM Flag

I see. I'm surprised she was able to lateral into there. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:20 AM Flag

Really? I know it's tough but I think a recommendation from her current school goes a long way [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:21 AM Flag

I was told you need to audition no matter what. is she planning to be prof? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:23 AM Flag

well she hopes so. She auditioned by video - her current school arranged it. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:24 AM Flag

I see - that is different. Good luck to her. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:25 AM Flag

you may want to ask them for school ideas. professional children's school, PPAS, others maye be most likely to work with them. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:22 AM Flag

yeah, I think PCS is the most likely, but I would never send my child there [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:23 AM Flag

OP: that's interesting - is it because the academics are weak? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:23 AM Flag

yes, and the children there can be awful. I actually considered sending dd (who is now 14 at SAB) there, but decided not to. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:25 AM Flag

Op: Hi SAB Mom - I'd be really interested to hear how your daughter finds SAB, what you do for schooling? Obviously understand if you'd rather keep it vague and anonymous [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:29 AM Flag

What division will your daughter be going into? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:35 AM Flag

they are not sure yet - they will assess her when she arrives. I think the issue is that she may be a bit behind the SAB system on pointe as she has had less than a year of pointe at the RBS [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:38 AM Flag

I see. When are you moving to the US? From what I know she will need to attend the audition on Sept 2 if you are here, in order to be placed. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:39 AM Flag

We are hoping to move around the end of August so I assume we will be coming on Sept 2. To be honest dd has all the paperwork and as RBS is a boarding school I haven't looked at it in detail yet. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:42 AM Flag

SAB mom here. If your dd is not in an Intermediate class (it sounds to me like she would be in Girls V, but I'm not an expert) then she can attend a "normal" school. My dd did until last year, now she continues to attend her school but has a modified schedule (she is now in Advanced C1) [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:43 AM Flag

OP: thank you. At least I am now getting a better idea of the questions I should be asking! [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:45 AM Flag

No problem. The classes up until the advanced division really do allow for a more-or-less normal school attendance. I believe the Intermediates meet in the afternoon, but before that all children's classes are late enough and on Sats so you don't have to worry about missing school [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:46 AM Flag

thank you. And by the way I like your laid-back attitude about it. I cannot bear the hovering, obsessive ballet mums we have in England [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:52 AM Flag

Welcome to NY - look forward to perhaps meeting you at the school oneday this fall. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:56 AM Flag

You too. Thanks again for the advice. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:59 AM Flag

You might want to go here and register: http://www.sab.org/winterterm/admission/audition_scheduling_form.php [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:47 AM Flag

There are some good public schools in Washington Heights but you need to live in the specific catchment area - check on this when you look at apartments (df got a great deal but it turns out apt is not zoned for good school). [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:44 AM Flag

thank you - I shall check with our realtor [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:45 AM Flag

that was me, but it is for preschool. Might be difficult for 3 kids of different ages. That being said, my aunt and uncle moved to the US from London and all their dcs ended up at St. Ann's (around the same age as your children, op) [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:52 AM Flag

If you move into an area with good schools, than you don't need to worry about figuring out private schools. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:52 AM Flag

except that they may tell her the school is full & send dc to another one she doesn't like [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:57 AM Flag

as of now that is only happening for K (and may still be a rumor?). for her older kids not likely to be an issue. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:26 AM Flag

Call/join the Parents league of NY - that is their specialty, getting kids into schools after the cut off. Also George Davidson, the Head of Grace School is also the Head of ISAANY (private schools org) & he will know exactly which private schools have spaces & will give you great advice. It may be tough getting 3 into the same school, but in my ds's class a new family with 3 kids just joined. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:56 AM Flag

will definitely try this - thank you again [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:10 AM Flag

You should probably figure out the schools first, then housing - NY is a big place and you will have to be within reach of schools and Lincoln Center. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:47 AM Flag

Try the newer schools that have higher grades, not just British International, but also Claremont and Ideal. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:50 AM Flag

Try Dwight - regardless of what some may say on this board. They have the international baccalaureate program, have British families there (who like the curriculum and think it will allow them to transfer back to the UK easily - I know 2 of them), very international student body, located on the Upper West Side which would be convenient if you live in Washington Heights and are very supportive of children who have strong aptitudes outside academics - would be dancing in your case. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 12:30 PM Flag

[ - ] Do any of you use the free breakfasts and lunches provided by the city for any kid under 18? 8 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More

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NY Schools 07.16.08, 06:03 AM Flag

It's only free in the summertime. School lunches, unless you're at a title I school are paid by parents at a reduced fee of about 1.75, I think. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:39 AM Flag

If they are at the pool, my kids love the lunch. I don't understand it. They can have Tuna Niçoise with me but would rather that? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:47 AM Flag

can you afford to give them tuna nicoise? if so, I think its weird and inappropriate to take the freebie. someone is paying for it somewhere, ya know? [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:21 AM Flag

Tuna Niçoise was a joke but yes, I can afford to buy them lunch. One of the people paying for that "free" lunch is me. I have no issue with my kids accepting a free lunch when they are at a public pool and that is what the kids there are doing. (And if there were an opt in fee I'd certainly pay it.) [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:35 AM Flag

Nope, dc has enough of the school lunch during the year (and I only allow it once a week really). [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 07:14 AM Flag

let me guess -- Fridays [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:18 AM Flag

nope, a few fridays but dc actually got tired of the soggy and bready pizza too [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 08:25 AM Flag

Funny. My ds would walk through fire for school pizza. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 09:06 AM Flag

[ - ] iPhone users: I'm switching my little black book over to the iPhone. How do I enter international numbers? With the "011"? And will the phone adjust when I'm abroad - ie by dropping the country code and adding a 0 to the city code or whatever? 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:03 AM Flag

OP: I'm talking about when I just punch a number off the contacts list of course - I know how to dial properly if I have to dial the number from scratch. [ Reply | More

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General Topics 07.16.08, 06:08 AM Flag