Halfway through the summer? It can’t be but it is. The weeks fly by in a way they don’t when there’s snow and ice on the ground. Right? Whether it’s vacations away or days in the park or at the beaches, summers in the city are never long enough.
Our issue this month presents our annual Fall School Guide. We hope you will take a good look at the many options around your borough for education opportunities. So many fine professionals throughout our communities are offering wonderful choices from daycare to high school. There’s something for everyone.
In addition, this issue has an article I think is very important and is a must-read. Our resident writer Tammy Scileppi has given us another wonderful insightful piece on the important world of social media and its affect on our adolescents. Through a fascinating interview with Dr. Melissa Robinson-Brown, they discuss the growing cultural phenomenon. Make sure to read “Too Connected.”
I am a part of this world too. I text, I email, I have two Facebook accounts and am no stranger to social media. However, when I end my day and am in our office building elevator, I often am the only rider not holding a smartphone and either reading or typing. When I dine out with my 20-something daughter, her phone is always present and beeping with texts coming in and mine is stored in my purse where it largely stays. Even when I’m at my desk, that’s where my phone is stored. It doesn’t follow me everywhere and when I get home, I seldom am aware of its presence, which is why I still have a land line, otherwise no one can reach me by phone. But I am not an adolescent and in fact, am strongly categorized as a digital immigrant. These youngsters are natives.
And don’t miss reading the piece on “Older Moms” by another of our resident writers, Allison Plitt. As one of those gals myself, I am a true testament to the trend that has been developing, although I do take issue with her contention that 20 years ago it was unheard of for a woman in her 40s to be giving birth. Actually, it was just starting to be a trend and a woman over 35 having a first time pregnancy was no longer referred to as having a “change of life baby.” As women explored life, love and new careers, there was naturally often a delay in not only having children but in entering into committed relationships. Anyway, there are indeed unique issues and this is a good read.
Make sure the summer is not going by with your kids no longer reading, writing and engaging in learning activities of some kind. The loss of continuity is detrimental. Visit the libraries and read as a family. It’s such a bonding pleasure.
Enjoy the final month of summer. I know I will. Thanks for reading!
