Health and Wellness – Page 2

Friendship- the Unexpected Bonus at Condors Swimming

Posted on August 19, 2018 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Health and Wellness, Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Special thanks to Jennifer Tesker-Photography for the photos used in this post.

Well- she’s actually an even bigger part than that. You see a good portion of the post is about Jennifer and her girls. They swim at Condors with us. Her daughter (S) swims with (E) and her other daughter (L) is on pre-team with (A). For the 2017-2018 swim seasons they have been in the same groups. Throughout all their swim time together, they have not only learned to be better swimmers, they have also become friends.

But not just- “Hey Good to see you” friends, like when are we having a play date- can they come swimming at Gran’s house, i’m ditching you at our photo viewing and playing outside all afternoon friends. This is possible because of the retention rate at Condors. People who come to see the program love it so much that they stay- so our kids have been swimming together a LONG time.

When we walk into Felix Festa Middle School on our scheduled days the first order of business is ALWAYS to find out buddies. (A) won’t even walk over without (L), and Little Miss likes to sit in the bleachers and chat with (S) before their lesson.

Lots of learning and fun happen in our half hour lessons- but aside from the benefits of fitness and safety that I often discuss- there is also a TON of laughter and fun happening. The kids chat, make plans, and encourage one another to do better. (A) and (L) even have some friendly races from time to time.

In fact, we have a little group of parents that hang out in the stands now (very inclusive if you see us come on over) with a total of 10 kids in the program- and we’ve really gotten to know one another because of the kids swim schedules.

We’ve had the summer off and the kids are asking about lessons once again. I am so happy that this is the case because the school months are my absolute favorite times for them to swim. They continue to hone their skills in the off season, stay in shape and get to have some great fun. Ashley is ALWAYS amazing at helping us find the perfect session to fit into our super busy schedules- and we get to hang with our buddies again!!!

For information on pricing- and schedules or just to ask some questions hit up Ashley at lessons@condorsswimming.com

*As always we appreciate you letting Condors know we sent you- that’s how we continue to bring you the best information and programs in and around Rockland County.**

Finding Time for Mommy

Posted on November 25, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Health and Wellness, Out and about..., Reviews, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own. Also, please be kind- its not easy to post progress pics :o)

Some of you may remember when I started my Kickboxing Journey two years ago at Fitness Kickboxing NY. I was hooked right away. I stuck to the plans and did VERY well. I was back down to my (literal) fighting weight within a few months of dedicated attendance, and adherence to meal plans. Here was my first article (CLICK HERE).

Well, not too soon did I reach my goal but life started getting in the way. During the summer I had attended the 6 am class which was perfect with our schedules and meant that I could go 5 days a week. Once school started back up I had to switch to the 7:30 pm class. This was fine except I was getting there maybe 3x a week, and it got increasingly more difficult to attend when the kids started getting homework, plus, I was missing bedtime.

Needless to say I slacked off and for a year was on-again off-again with my workout routine. I was miserable, and I started putting the weight back on. I didn’t even notice until one day I looked in the mirror. I called Amir and spoke to him about my disappointment and he agreed that I needed a routine, and that I needed to get back to my old self. Then he did the most amazing thing.

He offered to come in a half hour earlier in the mornings so that I could kick box BEFORE work every morning. This meant getting up VERY early for both of us but I was willing to give it a try. Especially because it meant I could get my workout in and not miss any Mommy time with the kids. Well, that was last March. It has worked amazingly. I begin my workout every morning at 5:30 (sometimes 5:45) and end at 6:40. I shower at the studio and head straight to work. I have lost ALL of the weight that I had regained and am feeling great. I couldn’t be happier.

See that’s one thing that so nice about working out at a SMALL studio. Personal attention. Amir listens to the problem areas that we identify and helps us to tackle them, and he encourages us without being loud or super demanding. Workouts with my fellow morning crew members are fun, we are like a family. I know everything about what is going on in their lives. WE SWEAT. The workouts are demanding, and difficult, I feel a sense of accomplishment EVERY day. Then I look in the mirror and I am SO glad that Amir was willing to take some extra time to help me out. In fact, one or two of my crew have started coming in early sometimes too.

My advice here. Find time. Go somewhere where you will get some personal attention and feel good about going. Find people to work out with that you enjoy. Speak to trainers about accessibility for your schedule. If they are any good, they will listen and find a way to accommodate you. You can’t take care of all the people in your life if you don’t take care of yourself.

If you are interested in Fitness Kickboxing NY please give Amir a call and tell him you heard about him here. Then take advantage of his $20 3 class trial. You won’t be sorry. 845-653-2488

Meet Laura Wanamaker- Postpartum Doula and Newborn Care Specialist

Posted on October 18, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Health and Wellness, March of Dimes, Rockland Babies .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

At RNYM we are always researching the VERY best services for our parents. From the beginning stages of life all the way through. That’s where we found Laura Wanamaker, who specializes in helping mothers through the beginning stages of being a mom, the whole confusing lot. We look forward to showcasing her at our upcoming events. For now, read a bit about who she is, and what she has to offer you.

Laura Wanamaker
Postpartum Maternal and Newborn Care Doula

www.laurawanamakerdoulas.com

ldwanamaker@verizon.net

845-536-2163

I am a Certified Postpartum Doula and Newborn care specialist.

I come to this profession by way of deep heartfelt caring and understanding. As a mother of three college age children, I think back to my quick succession of pregnancies. With each baby my confidence grew, but so did my exhaustion. The first baby garnishes incredible attention, visitors and much appreciated meals. By the third baby less and less help was offered and the “you got this now” could not be more true. Not with a preschooler, toddler and fussy newborn.

I think back of the value of a doula. For my first baby, I wish I had a postpartum doula to come to my home and teach me, validate me and just help to get some well needed sleep. I know also this would have played a role in more successful nursing. I understand what it is have a job waiting for you and 12 weeks goes by incredibly blurry and too brief.

I used a labor doula with my last two deliveries because I really needed hands on experienced assistance. I was way ahead of the curve being that was twenty years ago. My own obstetrician ignorantly asked me “what is a doula?” and this was his career field. Since that time I have always been intrigued on being a doula myself. After corporate downsizing, sort of forced early retirement, I became a nanny. I have worked long term for two incredible families. I will always say I have seven children to this day. With the right timing in my life and a twenty year desire for this career, I made it happen.

I think about all the money that was spent frivolously when I could have set aside that money for help those first few weeks. I thought what a fabulous idea this would be for a shower gift or even better a gift for a subsequent birth when everything needed for a newborn is already at home.

What I bring to you is a philosophy of “What does the mother want?” Every mother and family can require different needs. It is completely irrelative to me how you choose to feed your baby. I have been on both sides of that issue. I will provide a mother with all the information needed if she really wants to try successful nursing, but its a personal decision. Even if you know you don’t feel nursing is for you or try it and realize you prefer formula and bottles, then do it. I am not hard core. I value how you want to care for your baby in any capacity. Doulas never diagnose as we are not medical professionals and should never represent that we are. As an example, recognizing the difference between a clogged milk duct as opposed to potential mastitis is imperative. That’s where a doula can really help. Helping with techniques to alleviate that problem and getting the baby back to the breast is what is really needed.

– Adult and Pediatric CPR, First Aid, AED certified through the AHA Heartsaver program- current since 2010
-Latching and breastfeeding support
– Review AAP safe sleep guidelines
– Expertise in all areas of newborn care
– Experience with “sleepy babies” and tips for waking and feeding
– Promote proper ambiance for daytime and night time interaction and feeding
– Guidance to appropriate Internet and credible sources of accurate information
– Fully support the mother’s choices and changes

The hormone fluctuation that occurs within the first few days of delivery are the greatest that you will ever have in your lifetime. The baby blues are real and everyone goes through them at some level. Many times it lingers because of the exhaustion of recovery and having a newborn. A doula’s assistance during this period has been shown to reduce the probabilities and severity of postpartum depression. I personally have an extremely strong interest in Infant massage and calming techniques and postpartum mental health issues.I also really look forward to working with the families of adoption. A different, but just as beautiful of a beginning.

I truly only have one mantra when it comes to the initial postpartum time period for a woman

“The best gift you can give your baby is a happy Mother”

8 Great Local Scout Badge Activities

Posted on October 1, 2017 by Sofija Duic Posted in Day Trips, Health and Wellness, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are our own.

By: Sofija Duic

As a mom of 2 Girl Scouts growing with the program and now becoming teenagers, it is a constant struggle to keep the girls active and excited as a scout. Through the years we have come across many great adventures and activities where the girls can earn badges – thinking outside the box. Thought we should share to help out other leaders in the area :o). Most if not all of these can also translate for the Boy Scouts among us.

Here are some of our picks:

Cooking Badge

Young Chef Academy in New City – http://newcityny.youngchefsacademy.com/
Young Chef Academy focuses on specific teachable moments in relation to the recipes chosen. They have a list of amazing things for the girls to make – pizza, raviolis, fruit skewers, strawberry dreams, lunchtime wraps.
The minimum to book the event is 10 scouts, max is 20.
$20 per child/person.
845-638-0601

Swimming Badge

Swim Like a Fish (Life Plex Health Club) – http://www.likeafishswim.com/
Swim Like a Fish will test the girls water skills and teach them about water safety and first aid. Afterwards the kids play games. A great way to spend some fun in the water during the winter season. There is no minimum number of scouts, but a max of 20.
$5 per child.
Stephanie Kunow – swimlikeafishny@gmail.com or 845-570-1289

Health & Fitness Badge

Vision Sports – visionsportsclub.com
This is a one hour program and the fitness instructor will curtail the session to your badge needs. Example of the badges that can be earned are B.F.I.T Badge and Passport to Health & Fitness Badge. There is a minimum of 10 scouts.
$12 per child or $15 including a shake at the end.
Mary – 845-517-1415

Dance Badge

Surge Studio’s: http://www.surgestudioarts.com/
Surge Studio can host an hour long dance jam session with a disco ball and lights, where the girls will do a warm up, play a few games such as “Freeze Dance”, “Coke & Pepsi”, “Dance Simon Says”, followed by learning a dance routine the teachers will choreograph. It can be a Hip-Hop class or an Acro (Acrobatics) class where the girls will learn simple moves like cartwheels, rolls, perhaps walkovers. maximum of 10 girls per class (for safety reasons)
$15 a girl (for the hour long session)
Carly Harper – 845-598-0990 or info@surgestudioarts.com or http://www.surgestudioarts.com/private-instruction.html

Surge Studio is a true dance home for students of all ages and levels. Experience the Surge vibe, Surge love, and dance technique as you flourish in knowledge, confidence, and life skills that go beyond the dance floor.

Various Outdoor Activities/Badges

Day Camp in the Park – http://daycampinthepark.com/
Day Camp in the Park has everything! Pool Swimming, Lake swimming, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, bicycle boats, archery, a climbing wall, martial arts, theater/drama, fishing, frog & turtle catching, hiking, camp fire building and lots more!
Costs vary depending on the activity, all group sizes welcome!
dcitp1979@gmail.com or 845-638-2515

CPR/First Aid Badges

Life Save – http://lifesavellc.com
Each girl will learn CPR awareness, how/when to call 911, and basic first aid skills. The lesson is about an hour and a half and the girls will receive a participation certificate. ( they will not be certified )
All group sizes are welcome – they do ask for a head count a few days before.
There is no minimum age however, Life Save starts awareness training at the age of 12yrs and up for leaders.
$25 per child
info@lifesavellc.com.

Arts & Crafts

Jills Ceramics – http://www.jillsceramics.com/
A great afternoon learning all about ceramics. Jill works with the kids and shows them how to pour a mold (which they get to pick from 3 pieces), how to fire the ceramic, and then how to paint the ceramic (a full start to finish of making a ceramic piece). Once they paint it, they learn about the second firing (to seal the paint) and if they want to add any special touches (glitter/no glitter). After your ceramic party, everyone has a ceramic piece to take home and enjoy. The troop leader can bring a snack in for the girls to enjoy as well.
Minimum group of 8 preferred.
$10 per child. (no badge is provided).
Jill – 845-623-4975 to book

Drama & Theater

Spotlight Production Children’s Theater – http://www.spotlightpct.com/scout-programs.html
Spotlight Production has some amazing programs for all the Girls Scouts. Each level has a special program created just for them! Each program runs for 2 hours.
Daisy: A role Playing Workshop for Grades K-1 – Courageous & Strong Badge
Brownie: Move to the Beat – A Dance workshop for Grades 2-3 – Dancer Badge
Junior: A Theater Workshop for Grades 4-5 – Playing the Past Bridge Badge
Cadette: A Theater Workshop for Grades 6-8 – Public Speaking Badge
Prices vary per session.
845-548-1857 or shellysplayhouseinc@gmail.com

Hello Fitness 450

Posted on September 27, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Events, Health and Wellness, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

I had the great pleasure of checking out the FREE Fitness 450 Debut Workout at JCC Rockland on September 10, 2017. I generally take the weekends off of my workout routine, so it was very nice to jump on in and workout. I shy away from a lot of programs due to my extensive knee issues. SO I was a little nervous attending.

Well, that was laid to rest within 5 minutes of listening to trainers Josh and Carolyn speak. It was IMMEDIATELY clear that I was not just another body to them (and there were 100 in the room) I was an individual, the whole time. We warmed up (dynamically) and then participated in circuit training.

For those who don’t know what that is, its a series of stations and at each station you complete a different activity. The stations are timed and you rotate through each during the workout. Josh and Carolyn took the time to explain and demonstrate each of the 10 stations, including the available adaptations for those who may have difficulty with the motions. We did each station for 1 minute, and I was SWEATING!!! In fact, I work out, and pretty hard 5 days a week, some of the exercises really had me burning. That’s actually the point. Keeping your heart rate up throughout the workout, and burning, helps you to not only burn fat and calories during the workout, but continually for 3 days afterwards!!!!

During the workout Josh and Carolyn circulated through the crowd stopping to help everyone, and cheer us on as we tried. At the end of the workout Josh cooled us down, and helped us to better understand how to know when we have recovered.

We were then invited in for breakfast and a tour of the new home of Fitness 450. Despite it being located at JCC Rockland, you don’t have to be a member to join and attend classes (although the membership is awesome and has so many perks). Similarly the studio is located kind of outside in the back of the facility. When you walk into the stairwell you know immediately you are venturing into a separate facility.

The studio is BEAUTIFUL state of the art. I loved how clean and uncramped it was. Its not huge either, so the groups/sessions have to be kept small, which I love. Lots of individual attention, here you are NOT just another number. I was super excited to see that they had a filtered water fountain in the studio, to encourage people to bring reusable bottles, and not disposable <3

Of particular interest to me was also the treadmill. Again, I’ve had 3 knee surgeries, and am awaiting two replacements at a later date, I have to be SO careful how I work out. I had to ask about it. Let me tell you, this self-propelled curved machine did NOT hurt me. It encourages you to run more naturally, on the balls of your foot, not slamming on your heels. I was amazed…. It felt good, it was encouraging.

I had an amazing chat with Carolyn and Josh afterwards about further plans for the facility including opening up training to other age groups that are all in the works (can’t wait to tell you about it).

Classes begin in November and from what I saw (over 100 people at the two sessions on 9/10) and what I’ve heard (soooo many people loved it) its booking up fast. We did get a ridiculous deal for our readers to get started 8 sessions for the price of 4 for the first month. Just make sure you mention you heard about it here to cash in. Ashley and I just MIGHT see you there…

You can also check out their website http://fitness-450.com/ to learn more about this high energy, high intensity and fun workout.

Save the Date: Fitness 450 Launch – 9/10

Posted on September 6, 2017 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Health and Wellness, Main Page .

Save The Date: September 10th

Fitness 450’s debut launch event
Two world-class fitness experts will lead 450-style workouts.
The event will run from 9AM-11AM
The event is complimentary and babysitting will be available at no charge.
Register at http://fitness-450.com/
450 West Nyack Rd. West Nyack, NY 10994
Info@Fitness-450.com

Fitness 450, Rockland’s hottest new workout, offers small group, coach-led high intensity interval training (HIIT). The workout incorporates bursts of all out exercise interspersed with periods of active rest.

The workout is a station-based, heart rate monitored fitness program led by a coach that follows the motto Move. Train. Play.

Move=Anyone can do it
Train= Specific training to get you results.
Play=It’s fun!

Fitness 450 begins this Fall, and is a great way for you to make a long-term commitment to your health and fitness. For the tentative schedule go to http://fitness-450.com/.

There will be a wide variety of class times to accommodate busy lives. Babysitting is available for those who need it.

You decide how often to incorporate this workout into your fitness program. Packages are available for 4, 8, 12. 16 or unlimited times per month.

The lowest pricing is now available during pre-sales. In addition, mention RocklandNY Moms and receive an 8-time monthly package for the price of a 4-time package (for the first month only).

You can also check out their website http://fitness-450.com/ to learn more about this high energy, high intensity and fun workout.

Halfway Acres Farm has our Whole Heart

Posted on June 29, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Health and Wellness, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Three years ago we stumbled upon this unbelievable little slice of heaven in Campbell Hall NY, called Halfway Acres Farm. I couldn’t be gladder that we did. Ashley and I took the kids up there for some good clean fun in the sun, and we have been hooked ever since. Ashley made it back last year and I missed the window because the kids were sick, and I was so upset. That’s why this year when they posted on Facebook that berries were ready for picking, we ran right up.

Since we haven’t been there in two years I was worried that with the secret out it would be crowded, or the experience would have changed (SO NOT THE CASE). They have added more bushes, and some great fencing (which doesn’t take away from the view at all). I knew from Ashley that they had a few picnic tables you could take advantage of so we planned for it.We went up at noon and brought some sandwiches and drinks (please be sure to bring a bag to take care of your garbage). As we approached, Michael greeted us (he’s the nicest guy), and offered us their essential oil tic spray. You need to be prepared to check for tics, this is the great outdoors after all. The day was so beautiful, we took our time and enjoyed each others company and the scenery while we ate our lunch at the tables.

Once we cleaned up it was into the bushes for blueberries!!! The kids decided to have a contest to see who could pick the most berries, and we ran around in the fields for 2 hours. Michael had told us where the berries were ready for the picking, and there were SO MANY!!! There were a few other families picking, but you barely even knew that they were there, you felt like you had the whole farm to yourself.

After a sun kissed two hours Michael and (I) his daughter helped us check out by weighing our berries. Then the kids were given ice pops (one of their favorite parts) which they ate on one of the large rocks out front. The experience is just amazing, a great fun day with the family, but the best part is what you get to take home with you.

If you have never had fresh blueberries you MUST go and get some. What you have been eating from the food store is a sham. They are TASTELESS compared to what you can get at Halfway Acres. In fact, every year I swear off of store bought berries because its just not the same. These berries are like candy, little drops of heaven. So much so that two days later they are almost gone in our house, I am using the last of them to make my famous whole wheat blueberry muffins and begging Ashley who is going up this weekend to bring me home more.

The blueberry season is really short 2-3 weeks at its longest, so if you haven’t planned a trip yet and you have some free time I highly recommend it. These berries are good for so many things – shakes, just as fruit, muffins, crumbles, pies, jams- too many to name, and once you eat them, you are going to want to try them all :o)

Ok, ok, convinced? Here’s the address:

200 Purgatory Road, Campbell Hall, NY 10916

and hours:

Tuesday-Sunday from 8 AM – 8 PM (closed Mondays with the exception of July 4th they will be open for the holiday).

Make sure to let Michael and the family know that we sent you, we adore them!!

WAIT!!! I FORGOT TO TELL YOU ANOTHER AMAZING PERK- THE PHOTOS YOU CAN TAKE!! ITS ALSO A FANTASTIC PHOTO LOCATION!!!

Going Swimmingly

Posted on June 15, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Health and Wellness, Reviews, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are our own.

One of the things that is nicest to have occur with this site, is when someone is genuinely happy with a recommendation. Which happens so often here. It makes all of the work that we put into the site totally worth it. I recently had one such experience and I just had to share it with you all.

As you know, my children have been swimming with Condors for 3 years now. First (A) and now (E), have learned, thrived, and enjoyed every moment. Well, it was after seeing the constant posts for my children at Condors, that a friend (and phenomenal directory photographer) Jennifer Tesker signed up her older daughter who was looking for a fun activity, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your children can swim safely at a town pool, family pool, birthday party, at the beach, anywhere really. Jennifer was kind enough to take some photos at one of our most recent classes (so you all don’t have to see my bad ones).

Back in November she signed her up and her progress is nothing short of Amazing. In the short time that she has been with the Condors she has improved from being a beginner swimmer to just before being selected for pre-team (the development program for the Condors competitive team).

In fact, she enjoys it so much that her little sister, who was originally uninterested, decided that she wanted to swim and is a swimmer now.

If that wasn’t enough, they have also referred friends who are now loving the program as well. I caught up with the girls after class and asked them what was their favorite part… They said “everything”, when pushed they said learning new things, new ways to swim.

Condors are holding registration for summer sessions now, and since the Felix Festa Pool will be under construction they are holding all classes at: 44 Henry Kaufman Road Orangeburg NY 10972. The schedule is below:

You can head over to their website to register- remember there is a discount if you are a resident, and an additional one if you refer a friend.

JCC Rockland “Smart Start” Program

Posted on March 8, 2017 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Health and Wellness, Reviews, Services .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post

Since having baby H back in August, I have been eager to return to my pre-pregnancy active self. When our friends at the JCC Rockland offered us to try their “Smart Start” program I was super excited!

The “Smart Start” program is offered to all new members free of charge – it includes a complimentary fitness consultation with a fitness manager, 2 one-hour sessions with a personal trainer, and a consultation with their nutritionist.

My Smart Start began with a consultation over the phone with Jacob – one of the fitness managers. He asked basic health questions – height, weight, ultimate fitness goals, what exercise I most enjoy, best time for me to work out, etc. From this information he would match me with a trainer who he thought could help me reach my goals and keep me motivated. My perfect match – Chaya.

I was both excited and nervous for my first session with Chaya. We began our first session with a brief conversation to help her get to know my strengths, weaknesses, likes, dislikes, health considerations, and personal goals. From there we did a simple ‘fit test’ to help assess my fitness level, which led into an introductory stretch and work out. I expressed I tend to work out mainly with free weights and body weight, not on machines, so we went into the Cross fit room to get started. The work out included work with a kettle bell, medicine ball, battle ropes, and then a circuit on a rowing machine (Which I am now obsessed with and need to start taking rowing classes) and the dreaded burpee.

A week later I came back for round two. Second session we hit the ground running. Remembering how much I loved the Row circuit from the first session – she began with warming up in the rowing room, and then we headed into the TRX studio for a more intense cardio work out. TRX jump squats, battle rope, kettle bell, and a jump rope circuit got my blood pumping. I had a bit of a respiratory cold I was battling, and she could see I was struggling a bit, so she slowed the pace and adapted the intensity to fit my needs, without skipping a beat.

Chaya was amazing. I instantly felt comfortable with her. She explained what each exercise was for and how to modify if needed. Chaya knew just how to motivate me when I was feeling nervous to push a little harder and when it was time to take it down a notch. I could tell she took the time to prepare and review notes from session to session. That this wasn’t just a generic throw together routine she uses with everyone.

I finished each session with Chaya feeling like I got my butt kicked – but in a good way! It also helped me determine (realistically) my current fitness level. (‘Cause in my head I am still fighting weight and think I can Kickbox 5 days a week like I was pre-pregnancy)

Next was my consult with the Nutritionist. First step was a quick online questionnaire asking about my eating, sleep, and exercise habits. From there we had a brief conversation via email (you can also meet in person or speak over the phone). Since I am still nursing baby H, I am limited on changes I can make right now, but she gave me advice on the best foods to eat and some to avoid. I plan to reach out again after I wean him.

I also tried out a group Zumba class – way way way out of my comfort zone – and it was so fun! All age groups mixed together just having fun and dancing away the pounds. Read about our experience here!

This Smart Start program is a great way to help you start off on the right track and feel comfortable and confident when beginning your new fitness adventure. I was shocked when I was told just how reasonable it is for a membership.

The JCC has so much to offer! It really has EVERYTHING you need at a gym; cardio machines, weight machines, studio for free weights, cross fit studio, womens only studio, trx studio, spin studio, rowing studio, pilates studio, aqua fitness, racquetball court, basketball court, yoga (I am sure I am forgetting something), and over 100 group classes offered each week! They also have babysitting available in an adorable playroom right across from the fitness center (send Lauren an email to find out more about pricing and a special deal on babysitting for RNYM readers!)

I highly suggest taking full advantage of their 7 day free pass
to see what it is all about.

JCC is also currently running a special 90 Day Jump Start for an unbeatable rate!

Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry!

Posted on February 14, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Health and Wellness, Reviews, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

If we have been asked once, we have been asked a million times about a pediatric dentist. We try to be on top of all of the new children’s groups in the area. When Smith’s Little Smiles opened up we asked for a private tour. WOW! Boy was I impressed. Dr. Smith couldn’t be sweeter. She was so happy to answer all of my questions. Little (E) jumped right up onto the DINOSAUR chair and was happy to show her teeth. But I am getting ahead of myself.

The office is SUPER CLEAN, and totally geared toward children. Dr. Smith said that she designed the whole thing with her own children in mind. We could tell. (E) was really amusing herself. Dr. Smith herself is a doll. You can tell she really cares about her patients. She came out and introduced herself and invited (E) into the back. (E) was happy to join her.

She was led into a room with, yes, a dinosaur chair. The chair comes equipped with a seatbelt if needed and (E) had a good time putting it on. If the dinosaur chair, or Dr. Smiths demeanor doesn’t put all children right at ease, then the numerous televisions that they can watch will. There is one on the wall where they can see, and also one mounted on the ceiling to look at while being examined.

Let’s get down to the questions all parents want to know.

WHAT INSURANCE DOES SHE TAKE?

She works with ALL insurances. She has a deep rooted belief that dental care should and can be affordable for ALL children.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET AN APPOINTMENT?

There are ALWAYS emergency appointments available, for new clients it takes a week or less to get in and see the Dr.

AT WHAT AGE SHOULD WE START SEEING DR. SMITH?

At the age of one- here’s some more great information about that… http://www.smithslittlesmiles.com/age-one/

WHAT AGES DOES DR. SMITH WORK WITH?

From one year all the way up to 20 years of age!!

CAN SHE TAKE X-RAY ON PREMISES?

Yes- her awesome machine moves around the standing child (so fun).

WILL MY CHILD BE COMFORTABLE THERE?

You bet- not only is the office totally geared towards kids, but as a mother of two youngsters, she makes you feel RIGHT AT HOME. She had (E) up in the chair getting a quick once over in no time, (E) was more than happy to oblige. EVERYTHING about this practice is geared toward kiddos.

After a successful appointment Dr.Smith does so many neat things for the kids to make them feel at ease. You receive a gold coin to use in her huge bubble gum (prize) machine.

If you have had no cavities- you get a certificate and a balloon and you get your photo taken to put on Facebook. The kids love being recognized for good dental hygiene.

Photo Credit: Smith’s Little Smiles Facebook Page

Speaking of Facebook if you take a moment to follow Smith’s Little Smiles you will see all these great achievers as well as get some awesome tips for dental hygiene at home.

HOW DO I CONTACT SMITH’S LITTLE SMILES??

Phone: (845) 414- 9626

Address: 5c Medical Park Drive Pomona NY

Email: drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com

Website: http://www.smithslittlesmiles.com/

It is so so important to be able to get your kiddos off on the right path to dental hygiene since it is a life long journey. Dr. Smith is dedicated to making this process easy, and effective. She has an amazing bedside manner and great office. I have already spoken to lots of friends who have gone and ADORE her. If you are in the market for a pediatric dentist, or have a little one who is nervous- this place is SO for you. As always- we love a mention if you choose to see her because of us- your mentions help us to continue to bring you the best local kid info. :o)

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