Staten Island Parent - June 2023

Photo: Yumi Matsuo | yumimatsuo.com

Hair & Makeup: Buffy Hernandez | buffysaintmarie.com Production team: Donna Duarte-Ladd, Jeannine Cintron & Serena Norr

Summer Vibes

At long last, we welcome summer! School is winding down and the weather is heating up, which means it’s time to start planning your summer fun! We’ve got Road Trips (page 54), our Bucket List (page 78) and the Summer Guide (page 72) to get you started. And if you’d like your plans to include a passport, go to page 24 to read about my trip to Aruba (spoiler alert: yes, it really is as beautiful as everyone says it is).

If you are now or plan to be breastfeeding in the future, we’ve got everything you need to know about the new PUMP Act on page 22, which was designed to protect the rights of nursing mothers in the workplace.

You’ve probably been to the American Museum of Natural History a bunch of times, but there’s a whole new world to explore at the Gilder Center, the expansive new wing of everyone’s favorite NYC museum. New York Family’s Editorial Director checked it out and has the full scoop for parents on page 36.

And of course, we didn’t forget Dad! Happy Father’s Day to all of the wonderful papas out there. Go online to siparent.com for ways to celebrate the awesome dads in your life!

Happy Summer!

Jeannine Cintron

NewYorkFamily.com

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Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Email Jeannine at jcintron@siparent.com Get news, tips and humor all month long: siparent.com/signup

What’s Happening ON STATEN ISLAND

WAGNER HIGH SCHOOL MUSICIANS

PLAY AT BORO HALL

Students from the Wagner High School Jazz Band performed at Staten Island Borough Hall last month, delighting all who stopped by to listen. The performance was part of Borough Hall’s ‘Lunch at the St. George Plaza’ series. As part of the series, school bands from around the borough perform on the St. George Plaza outside of Borough Hall. Officials from Borough Hall plan to announce an upcoming schedule of dates for the performances, which will continue through June.

The Susan Wagner High School Jazz Band was recently selected to be a finalist in Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington Jazz Band Competition. The band was oof 15 schools from around the country to be accepted, and the only one accepted from NYC.

PRESIDENT OF TUSCANY VISITS S.I.

Eugenio Giani, the president of Tuscany, Italy, crossed the pond last month and came to Staten Island! The president visited the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum in Rosebank and met with local Staten Island elected officials and community members, including Borough President Vito Fossella and NYS Rep. Nicole Malliotakis.

President Giani highlighted the work of Antonio Meucci — the inventor of the telephone — who was born in the Tuscany region in 1808 and later lived in Cuba before settling in Rosebank in 1850.

For a short time, Meucci shared the home with Gen. Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian freedom fighter who returned to Italy in 1854 to fight for its independence.

According to history, Meucci rigged a system in the home to communicate with his wife, Esther, who was confined to their second-floor bedroom with crippling

arthritis. However, Alexander Graham Bell received the patent for the telephone first. But in 2002, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution honoring Meucci’s contributions and work.

“As many of us know, a lot of Italians lived in Rosebank and South Beach and other parts of Staten Island when they first came to the United States,” Fossella said. “My grandparents came to America and struggled, but they worked and never complained. It’s a part of our Italian heritage in which we honor our country, our grandparents and where we come from.”

The Borough Hall’s office said at the end of his visit, President Giani donated photos and the flag of Tuscany to the museum — and also said we might not have cell phones today if not for Antonio Meucci.

BY BARBARA RUSSO

PATRIOT’S PEN ESSAY CONTEST OPENS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOLERS

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has announced the 2023-2024 Patriot’s Pen Program, a nationwide essay competition for intermediate school students in grades six, seven and eight. The theme for this year’s contest is: How are you inspired by America?

Students will be judged on their knowledge of the theme, the development of the theme and clarity of their ideas. The grand prize winner will receive $5,000.

All entries must first be submitted to local VFW posts. After that, students can then advance to the regional, state and national competitions. The deadline to submit an essay is Oct. 31, 2023, by midnight. To find a VFW post, visit vfw.org. For more information, contact Paul Dietrich, the quartermaster of the Blazing Star Post, at 917-829-0653.

MAYOR’S INITIATIVE AIMS TO IMPROVE LITERACY IN NYC SCHOOLS

NYC Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor David Banks launched last month New York City Reads, a citywide campaign that makes literacy and reading instruction the core focus and priority of the city’s public schools.

The goal of the initiative is to ensure the city’s students become confident readers and are able to learn basic algebra. With half of New York City students not proficient at reading, and more than two-thirds nation ally, Adams and Banks said now is the time for the city and nation to act, according to a press release from the mayor’s office.

“The most basic thing we can do at our schools is ensure that all our students learn how to read and have the resources to thrive, but with more than half of our city’s public-school students reading below grade level, now is the time to act — and that is exactly what we are doing today,” Adams said. ‘New York City Reads’ is a historic curriculum shift in the largest school district in the nation that will bring proven science-of-

reading and phonics-based methods to all of our public-school students, starting with our early childhood programs and our elementary schools. We owe it to our young people, and we owe it to our educators who have been working hard to teach without access to the right tools. Through this campaign, New

York City is finally setting up our students and teachers for success.”

According to the mayor’s office, the new campaign “focuses classroom instruction on proven, research-based curricula, supported by intensive coaching and professional learning for educators aligned with those specific curricula, in order to ensure all public-school students, in every neighborhood, regardless of their background or identity, is experiencing rigorous, relevant, engaging reading instruction that works.”

The initiative, which will be implemented over two years, aims to streamline and enhance curricular resources in early childhood and elementary classrooms, as well as in high school algebra courses. Additionally, it will provide approximately $35 million next year for training and coaching to help teachers and leaders effectively implement the classroom materials and address their students’ needs, the mayor’s office said. For more information, visit nyc.gov.

Allison Gallagher SALVE REGINA UNIVERSITY

Gabriel De La Cruz GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Joseph Donato VASSAR COLLEGE

Lingxuan Zhang UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS

Nicole Rossilli BATES COLLEGE

Alissar Dalloul HARVARD UNIVERSITY

Elizabeth Mostovoy TRINITY COLLEGE

Joseph Dalton CORNELL UNIVERSITY

Lily Zawisny HAVERFORD COLLEGE

Maxwell Guerette SUSQUEHANNA UNIVERSITY

Alexander Immella COLGATE UNIVERSITY

Danil Goncharov RUTGERS UNIVERSITY

Jahlani Alamu ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Matthew Erickson UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND

Ava Kozlowski DREW UNIVERSITY

Graceann Kinsale UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

Bridget Motley COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND

Hanzi Shao UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

Kabral Armah UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Madison Pillarella VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

Zifei Gu NEW YORK UNIVERSITY

Abigaile Lindsey UMASS LOWELL

Charlotte Sciarrino COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

Jack Carnemolla PENN STATE UNIVERSITY

Juliana Marchese UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

Madeline Crowdell VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

Ryan Cambria UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE

Troy Batelman HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY

Yuliya Tarnovetska BARNARD COLLEGE

Shuo Wang SKIDMORE COLLEGE

Yiting Chen PRATT INSTITUTE

Sarran Moschella US NAVAL ACADEMY

PIENZA BRICK OVEN PIZZA CAFE IS NOW OPEN

There’s a new pizza place in town, and proceeds from profits are going to a good cause.

Lois and Richard Nicotra opened their Pienza Brick Oven Pizza Café on the ground floor of Corporate Commons Three in Travis.

Pienza Brick Oven Pizza Café is the first pizzeria on South Avenue in the Corporate Park of Staten Island and follows the same mission as its COMMONS café. The Nicotras will donate 100% of all profits directly to benefit Staten Island through their Lois & Richard Nicotra Foundation’s community nonprofit grants and scholarship awards to their employees’ children and grandchildren.

The Nicotras’ vision for the restaurant was to give Staten Islanders a taste of Pienza through authentic Italian cuisine. The pizza is cooked in a brick oven, the centerpiece of the stylish restaurant. Guests can enjoy the wood blockstyle tables, wood trim, pops of blue and red tile, a grab-and-go section, outdoor seating with

above heaters that not only warm guests, but are also designed to warm the granite top tables to keep guests’ meals warm, and art-filled paths for guests to enjoy a ‘passeggiata’, or a leisurely stroll or walk, Italian style.

The Nicotra Grown Organic Rooftop Farm fuels the menu, with fresh ingredients and vegetables grown on the roof of Corporate Commons Three by Brooklyn Grange farmers and served at ground level in Pienza.

Pienza Brick Oven Pizza Café is open MonFri, 11am -7pm. Visit PienzaPizzaCafe.com for more information.

IMPORTANT PUBLIC SCHOOL DATES IN JUNE

Thursday, June 8 - Anniversary Day/ Chancellor’s Conference Day for staff development. Students do not attend.

Friday, June 9 - Clerical Day for elementary schools, middle schools, K-12 schools and standalone D75 programs. Students in these schools do not attend.

Wednesday, June 14- Friday, June 23 - Regents administration, excluding June 19 when schools are closed.

Monday, June 19 - Juneteenth, schools are closed.

Tuesday, June 27 - Last day of school for students.

NY Connects: Staten Island

Your Link To Long Term Services & Supports

NY Connects is a trusted place that provides information about available options for a child or an adult with disability, family members and caregivers, friends and neighbors, an older adult. Whether you are paying for services yourself, through insurance, or are eligible for a government program, NY Connects can help.

What kind of information can I get?

• Home Care

• Caregiver Supports

• Mental Health Resources

• Medicare Counseling

• Transportation

• Benefit Application Assistance

Connect with us by calling 718-489-3954

And

Individuals who are hard of hearing, deaf or have a speech disability can use the NY Relay System 7-1-1

Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, with extended hours on Tuesdays until 7pm Interpretation/translation assistance available in 200+ different languages

Community Agency for Senior Citizens, Inc. (CASC)

An established local non-profit agency providing extensive and wide-ranging support, referral and information services to older adults (60+) living in Staten Island.

SERVICES OFFERED INCLUDE:

• INFORMATION & REFERRAL

• CASE MANAGEMENT

• ELDER JUSTICE/ELDER ABUSE

• CRIME VICTIMS ASSISTANCE

• OLDER ADULT CENTERS

• NY CONNECTS: STATEN ISLAND

• LONG-TERM CARE INFO & RESOURCES

• TRANSPORTATION

• COMMUNITY EDUCATION

2 Center Locations: New Lane Older Adult Center-Rosebank

70 New Lane

718-448-5936

Cassidy Coles Older Adult Center - New Brighton

125 Cassidy Place

718-273-6808

•TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE• Centers Open:

Mon. - Fri. 8am-4pm - Breakfast and Lunch Served

Arts, Health and Recreation Programs

We are open for office appointments and walk-in clients at our new location. 120 Stuyvesant Place, Suite 409 718-981-6226 Press Option 2 for Senior Services

The One Liners Every Parent Should Memorize

What to say when your child isn’t listening

By MoMMyBites.coM

When you tell your child to go brush their teeth or put their shoes on, do they listen the first time? What about the second time? For most parents, the honest answer is no. We often resort to repeated requests and some form of voice raising or negotiating to get our kids to complete basic to-dos, even when they’re an expected part of the routine. It’s a terribly frustrating cycle that can leave parents questioning their words, tone, and volume.

What should you say when your child isn’t listening? We asked child behavior specialist and family interventionist Vanessa Kahlon and the answer is not as much as you may think. In Kahlon’s first book, Shut Up And Parent , she explains that parents actually need to talk less to avoid yelling, and in her newest book, How to Do Parenting With Confidence, she advocates that listening is the key to building strong, confident relationships with kids. (So yep, still less talking.)

But we all know kids don’t magically get dressed, buckle up, do their homework, practice the piano, or basically any other thing we ever ask them without direction or redirection. Here’s where the right words can make a huge difference. These are the catchphrases, the one liners, the clever quips Kahlons says every parent needs to know, memorize, and keep at the tip of their tongue.

“Can you do it yourself or do I need to help you?”

According to Kahlon, this is the best and only response you should use when you ask your kids to do something and they take no action. “When you ask your child twice, the third time you need to help them listen or come or whatever the thing is,” she says. Kids don’t actually want their parents’ help, so the

idea of you doing something with them or physically bringing them from one place to another is motivating.

Consistency is also key. “You have to stick to a schedule and use consistent language. When a child doesn’t know what’s going to happen next they can become anxious,” says Kahlon. For daily routines, creating a visual schedule that kids can be in charge of checking helps, as does building in extra time to get things done or get out the door.

“Today is my way, tomorrow is your way.”

“Providing a child with choices can prevent them from feeling like you’re telling them what to do all the time. But Kahlon says even when parents feel it’s appropriate to be flexible, they need to remain in control. “There’s too much stress for a child when they’re in control,” she adds.

Letting your child decide to brush their teeth before putting on pajamas, for example, may not be a big deal, but if your child starts to ask for a drink of water first or otherwise attempts to control the situation,

parents need to reinforce what’s a choice and what’s not a choice. This phrase prevents an escalated state of control.

“Let me know when you’re ready to ________.”

When your child is not listening, not talking or not talking nicely, Kahlon suggests making eye contact while delivering this phrase, then walking away. “You always have to walk away,” she says. “Kids need time to think about their actions and feelings, and if parents keep talking they don’t have the chance to reflect..”

Before you walk away, Kahlono says a gentle touch (not a tap, which can be mistaken for aggressive) on the shoulder can help parents re-engage them. When your child is ready, parents should do more listening and less talking. Similarly there should be more emphasis on your child’s revised actions and less emphasis on the words ‘I’m sorry.’

Find more of Kahlon’s advice on her podcast Parenting With Vanessa Kahlon or follow her on Instagram @parenting_with_vanessa_kahlon.

10 Local Lighthouses

you need to visit this summer

By BarBara russo

Summer is right around the corner, meaning it’s almost time for sand, sun and fun! And while the beach is totally tubular on a hot summer day, there’s something else by the water your kids will enjoy: A visit to a local lighthouse!

You can get up-close-and-personal with a local lighthouse, or see some from afar on an exciting boat ride or tour. The New York metropolitan area is home to many lighthouses—over 35—all of which have guided ships and vessels into New York Harbor and surrounding waterways for centuries. As cool as they are to look at, our local lighthouses each resonate a deep history that goes beyond their unique architecture and marvelous engineering. This holds true for lighthouses in NYC and around the world.

“They were crucial to building the economy of the world as they served to assure safe passage of seamen and their cargo,” said Linda Dianto, executive director of the National Lighthouse Museum, which is located by the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, St. George. “Lighthouses are icons in our country, many located in some of the most magnificent locations along our waterways. Lighthouse history needs to be preserved for generations to come.”

While a lot of lighthouses are defunct, many are still in use. Browse this list of 10 historic lighthouses in NYC and nearby that families can visit or see from a ferry or tour boat, and get ready for a summer filled with lots of learning and family fun!

The Statue Of Liberty WHERE IS IT? Liberty Island

HOW TO GET THERE: Book a boat ride at Statue City Cruises or call 877-523-9849.

Let’s start with the most famous lighthouse of all—The Statue of Liberty. This beautiful monument was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States. Made of copper, she was dedicated on October

28, 1886, and designated as a National Monument in 1924. Today, you can visit the pedestal of the statue, which has 215 steps, or approximately 10 stories, to its top. A visit to Liberty Island is a classic NYC way to spend a summer day with the family!

Titanic Memorial Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? South Street Seaport Historic Seaport District; Fulton and Pearl Streets

HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get there is by Staten Island Ferry. It’s a 15-minute walk from the Whitehall Ferry Terminal. This beautiful lighthouse is a memorial dedicated to the RMS Titanic’s passengers, officers and crew who perished when the ship sank on April 15, 1912, after colliding with an iceberg on its way to New York City. Placed on the roof of the Seamen’s Church Institute, it was officially dedicated in 1913. Although it served as a memorial, it had a practical use as well. Its signature green light could be seen by vessels 10

miles out. When the Seamen’s Church Institute relocated, the old building, along with the lighthouse, was set to be demolished. Thankfully, it was donated to the Seaport Museum and erected in its current location in May 1976. Today, people can stop by and reflect on the Titanic tragedy and think about the over 1,500 people who lost their lives that fateful day.

Robbins Reef Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? Located between Staten Island’s North Shore and the Statue of Liberty.

HOW TO GET THERE: While the lighthouse isn’t open for visitors, you can see it along the Staten Island Ferry ride.

Staten Island’s Noble Maritime Collection owns this adorable “sparkplug” lighthouse that you can see from the Staten Island Ferry. Kate Walker was the lighthouse keeper here for 33 years. The museum is working on restoring the lighthouse and hopes to one day make it possible to open for visitors. In the

Little Red Lighthouse

meantime, you can see a wonderful exhibit dedicated to Robbins Reef Lighthouse at the museum, which is located at Snug Harbor, and discover its fascinating history!

The Little Red Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? Fort Washington Park, Manhattan. Underneath the George Washington Bridge

HOW TO GET THERE: Head to Fort Washington Park along Manhattan’s West Side. Access is by the Hudson River Greenway, a waterfront walking/biking path.

This cute lighthouse was erected in 1921 as a navigational aid for ships on the Hudson River. When the George Washington Bridge opened in 1931, the brighter lights of the bridge made the lighthouse obsolete. The U.S. Coast Guard planned to auction off the lighthouse, but an outpouring of support saved it. The heartwarming children’s book, The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge, tells the story of how there’s still a place in the world for an old lighthouse, and it resonates with an inspiring message of perseverance for readers of all ages. Today, The Little Red Lighthouse is owned by the NYC Parks Dept. and is a great place to visit. While tours of the interior are limited, there is still lots to do throughout Fort Washington Park to have an afternoon filled with fun.

Fort Wadsworth Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island

HOW TO GET THERE: Driving directions can be found here.

Visitors to the Fort Wadsworth Lighthouse enjoy an amazing view of New York Harbor. It was constructed in 1903 and sits atop of Fort Wadsworth’s Battery Weed (another interesting structure). Similar to the Little Red Lighthouse’s story, the Fort Wadsworth Light became obsolete after the Verrazano Narrows Bridge opened in 1965. Years went by and it became abandoned. A restoration effort led by Staten Island resident, Joe Esposito, was ultimately able to save the lighthouse. Today, the lighthouse isn’t open to the public, but visitors can admire its beauty from the outside.

Staten Island Rear Range Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? Lighthouse Hill, Staten Island

This 90-foot tower is located on Richmond Hill, at a point that is 145 feet above sea level. It’s a wonderful part of Staten Island’s history. While it’s not usually open to visitors, it’s still great to know this beautiful lighthouse exists on Staten Island.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? Fort Hancock, NJ

HOW TO GET THERE: You can drive or take NJ Transit. Seastreak also offers visitors a highspeed ferry to Sandy Hook from Manhattan. This national historic landmark is owned by the National Park Service. The New Jersey Lighthouse Society is a partner. The lighthouse is one of many things to check out in Sandy Hook. After viewing the lighthouse, families can enjoy a blanket picnic on the beach, take a stroll around Fort Hancock and enjoy many other recreational activities in the area.

Fire Island Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? Robert Moses Causeway, Suffolk County, NY

HOW TO GET THERE: You can take a ferry

ride from Bay Shore to Kismet. You can also drive to Robert Moses State Park.

Owned by the National Park service, the Fire Island Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Long Island, standing at 168 feet. It’s so tall, you can even see the NYC skyline in the distance! The lighthouse is open daily, and tours are usually available.

Montauk Point Lighthouse

WHERE IS IT? 2000 Montauk Hwy., Suffolk County, NY

HOW TO GET THERE: Accessible by car via Long Island Expressway; Long Island Railroad; and Hampton Jitney.

Plan a summer weekend of fun at Montauk Point, located on the eastern end of Long Island. You’ll not only see the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, a beloved Long Island icon, but enjoy many other family-friendly activities, too. Explore Montauk State Park, stay at one of the many waterside hotels, eat at fine seafood restaurants and do so much more in this popular NYC getaway spot.

The Great Staten Island Lighthouse Hunt

WHERE IS IT? Two starting points to choose from: Conference House Park, 298 Satterlee St; National Lighthouse Museum, 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point

HOW TO GET THERE: This is a car, bike or motorcycle tour.

Want to see a whole bunch of lighthouses during one trip? Join the Great Staten Island Lighthouse Hunt, organized by the National Lighthouse Museum! Follow a map, and see lighthouses right from your car!

Rear Range Lighthouse

Fort Wadsworth Lighthouse

Thinking About Overnight Camp?

Dos and don’ts for parents

By Jess Michaels

These camp Dos and Don’ts will help your child and your family have a successful summer at overnight camp.

DO your camp research to make sure you are finding the right camp for your child. There are so many excellent camp choices, however, it’s important to make sure you are choosing a program that is the right fit for your child and family.

DO try and tour the camp before you register. Seeing the camp will allow your child to picture themselves there and feel more comfortable as the first day approaches.

DO get to know the camp director and leadership team before your child goes to camp. Having a relationship with them will make you feel more comfortable and there will be an established relationship when you need to ask them a question or discuss something with them.

DO trust the camp director and leadership team to make the right decisions for their camp. You chose this camp because you trust them. Do your best to step back

and let them do their jobs.

DO be honest with the camp director and leadership team about your child. If your child has trouble sleeping or has a special consideration, knowing these things ahead of time will allow the camp to best be able to help your child.

DO talk about camp in a positive way in the months leading up to the summer. Let your child know that camp is going to be great and that you know they will have a wonderful summer.

DO let your child know it is ok to miss home AND still have fun when they are at camp.

DON’T make pick up deals and say to your child that if they are unhappy at any point, you will pick them up. By saying this, you are telling your child you don’t think they will be successful.

DON’T spend all day analyzing online camp pictures when your child is at camp. A photo is a snapshot in time and if your child isn’t smiling, it doesn’t mean they are unhappy. It could just mean your child is focused on the activity they are participating in.

DON’T call the office every day to ask how your child is doing. If there is a problem at camp, you will hear from the camp. No news is good news.

DON’T pack things that the camp asks you to leave at home like a phone. By doing so, you are sending the message to your child and the camp that rules don’t apply to you.

DO write your child a positive letter to arrive in the first few days of camp. This will let them know you are thinking of them.

DON’T write about all the things they are missing while at camp or how much you can’t wait for them to be home. This can make them feel homesick.

DO participate in any new camper gettogethers the camp schedules. These events can help your child feel more comfortable by meeting some other new campers and seeing the camp before they begin.

DON’T overpack. There is only so much shelf and cubby space at camp and campers end up wearing the same things all the time. Use the packing list as a guide and adhere as closely to it as possible.

DON’T bring too much stuff on Visiting Day. Camp is the gift you are giving them. They don’t need a ton of extras and most camps will throw away any food that the camper can’t finish that day.

DO try and enjoy summer while your child is away at camp, knowing they are participating in fun activities daily and making new friends.

• Learn Piano

• Engage In Science

• Play Guitar

• Learn Piano

Mozart & Einstein's Camp of Staten Island A Performing Arts & Science Camp

Mozart & Einstein's Camp of Staten Island A Performing Arts & Science Camp

• Engage In Science

• Learn About The World

• Play Guitar

• Brush Up On Academic Skills

• Learn About The World

• Jam In A Rockband & More Weekly Topics!

• Brush Up On Academic Skills

• Jam In A Rockband & More Weekly Topics!

Join the incredible teams at DEA Music & Art and FTKNY on an unforgettable adventure of exploration. Our Grasmere location will provide campers with magical memories as they journey through music, drama and art while expanding their minds to all corners of science, tech and academia – it’s sure to be something special this year!

Get ready for a summer in 2023 you won’t soon forget!

Join the incredible teams at DEA Music & Art and FTKNY on an unforgettable adventure of exploration. Our Grasmere location will provide campers with magical memories as they journey through music, drama and art while expanding their minds to all corners of science, tech and academia – it’s sure to be something special this year!

Get ready for a summer in 2023 you won’t soon forget!

Our Camp Is Run By Two Of Staten Island's Favorite Companies For Kids.

Our Camp Is Run By Two Of Staten Island's Favorite Companies For Kids.

(347) 974-4704 • 1481 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10305

Behind the PUMP Act

The new law for breastpumping working mothers

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

Some of us mothers face multiple menaces in the workplace, but one major one is when you return to work after maternity leave and your company has not devoted adequate support and space to pump breast milk. And many of us have our stories- especially those who tried to pump in closets, toilet stalls, and uncomfortable nooks. Yet, the goal of keeping the milk supply going once we return to the office is essential, especially if you wish to continue breastfeeding your baby breastmilk.

The reality of being able to pump at work could have a better record. Stats and research have shared that 40% of women have had access to break time and private space to pump. And while 40% may seem like a good number-this means that 60% did not have the needed accommodation to support them in their breastmilk journey for their child.

This is why the PUMP Act which was enacted on April 28. 2023 is important as moms in the US now have a law that firmly states their breast pumping rights. Here are some key points of this new law for pumping moms working in office and remotely.

What Is the Pump Act?

While The PUMP Act is a new law, it has a history. It is rooted first in The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and then in The Break Time for Nursing Mothers Provision, which was part of the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Why the Pump Act is important as it is now a law that women be given time and space to pump. Another vital part of the Pump Act is that pumping time is counted as time performed, meaning the employee does not need to make the time up or work later. This is regardless of whether the mother is in a corporate office or working at a minimum wage. If they do not receive the appropriate time and space to pump, they can file a lawsuit against their employer. Samantha Huggins CD (CHB),CLC shares, “The

PUMP act is step towards acknowledging the unseen double duty of lactating parents in the workforce. When we put forward oversimplified policy, there is no room for complexity, which is the reality of American Parenthood Culture. I see the PUMP act as the next step in assurances while we continue the fight for equitable parental leave.”

While the PUMP Act is not perfect (I’ll get more into that in a bit), it is a huge step forward in supporting pumping mothers and, most importantly, helping them while she stays at their job. Sheila Dukas-Janakos, CoFounder of Healthy Horizons, who sets up corporate lactation rooms and maintenance as well as breastfeeding consultations with healthcare professionals, has shared, “Women leave the workplace if they are not supportedemotionally and what with their body needs.”

Who is affected by the Pump Act?

The Pump Act means 9 million more US employees are now covered when they choose to pump at work (and remotely) for up to one year after birth; this includes nurses and teachers, which in the past, these employees’ rights were given by the employer itself; with the Pump Act, the law is meant to protect when the employer does not.

Who is not included in this law?

A big caveat. All pregnant flight crews and flight attendants do have a right to reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions with the upcoming law Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. Unfortunately, flight crews and flight attendants are not included in the PUMP Act law, meaning that accommodations must be made per each airline company’s policy. Let’s hope this changes soon.

And while Motorcoach Service Operators

and Rail Carriers do have rights, the law is at a later date and does have differences in the terms. A reliable resource on breastfeeding rights, U.S. Breastfeeding Committee, explains this all a bit more in-depth.

Also, the law’s fine print is ‘birth,’ meaning that the law is tied to the child being birthed by a mother. If a mother has adopted her child and can breastfeed, they are still not supported by this law. Sheila DukasJanakos of Healthy Horizons stated that in the many years she had provided services to a corporation, she has never seen a company not extend breastfeeding rights as an accommodation to an adoptive mother. That is good news, but let’s hope this is amended soon.

Lactation Room

An ideal lactation room will have a comfortable chair, a small or medium size fridge, a sink, space for pumps to store, and a microwave (to sanitize.) According to Sheila Dukas-Janakos and Cassi Janakos of Healthy Horizons, “The room cannot be a bathroom; it must be shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public.”

More Key Points of the Pump Act

The law covers the mother one year after their baby’s birth

An employee can file a non-compliance with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division (WHD) if a lactation space has not been created; the employer has ten days to comply

All companies, regardless of size, must follow the law; however, if a company has less than 50 employees, they may be excused from complying if these breaks and the space would be problematic and result in “undue hardship.”

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One Happy Vacation at The Aruba Marriott

By Jeannine Cintron

“Most beautiful place I’ve ever seen!”

“Been there three times!”

This was my inbox ten seconds after posting my first picture from Aruba. People really LOVE Aruba. I always heard it was a gorgeous place, but I had no idea just how breathtaking until I finally made the trip myself. I already want to go back!

Aruba is a tiny island – just 19 miles long and six miles wide – located in the southern Caribbean. The weather is spectacular all year round. Unlike most tropical countries, the climate is dry and arid. You might be surprised to learn the island is laden with cacti and desert areas. While it certainly gets hot, it doesn’t get very humid. My curly hair and I can attest to that; All of my other trips to the Caribbean have resulted in the same “hairstyle” I’d have in an underground NYC subway station in the middle of July. Not this time!

Aruba is known for its refreshing trade

winds, which cut through the dry heat and provide constant relief from the sun. As you might imagine, the sand is white and the ocean is sparkling, tranquil, and so clear you can spot small fish as they swim by your feet.

The Stay

A quick car ride from the airport brought us to our hotel, The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Located in the Palm Beach area of Aruba, the oceanside resort serves as a top choice for travelers of all ages and stages. I saw families, couples old and young, and I even got to see a wedding – the resort is a popular spot for those who desire a beachfront destination for their nuptials.

Rooms at the Aruba Marriott are modern, spacious and impeccably clean, and the staff is as pleasant as one might hope in a country with the moniker “One Happy Island.” Every room boasts a scenic balcony as well as a convenient walk-in closet.

The resort has two pools, one just for adults. As a parent, I appreciate the separation. While I certainly wouldn’t advise

your child to do cannonballs into the water, at least you know the guests who would be the most bothered by such a thing (and any other vacation shenanigans your kids get up to) will likely be at the other pool anyway.

The main pool features cascading waterfalls and a swim-up bar. Reserve a cabana for extra privacy, or snag a palapa right on the beach to enjoy the Aruban sun and surf. For a little added fun, pop-up activities are scheduled daily by the pool or beach. Jewelry-making, family zumba, seashell hunting, giant games and dance-offs are just some of the offerings your family will enjoy.

The resort offers tennis, basketball, and beach volleyball, plus pool games and aquarobics. There is also a bi-level, airconditioned health club at the resort, with exercise equipment and a sauna. At the 6,500 square-foot Mandara Spa, guests (exhausted parents, perhaps?) can destress with soothing facials, bath and shower treatments, full body massages, and deep cleansing body scrubs and wraps.

Where there’s water, there’s water sports! Resort guests can go paddleboarding, boating, sport fishing, snorkeling, scuba and snuba diving.

If your tropical getaway is a kid-free one, test your luck at the 15,000 square-foot Stellaris Casino. Open 24 hours, the casino

“Aruba is my favorite!”

has 500 slot machines and 32 gaming tables. The lobby comes alive at night with music and live entertainment as well.

Family Fun in Aruba

If you’re staying at the Aruba Marriott, you’ll likely find everything you need for a relaxing vacation without going far. But if you are looking to add more excitement to your visit, there are several excursions to look into, including family-friendly ones.

One of the highlights of my trip was an exciting off-road UTV tour of Aruba’s sandy deserts and rugged coastline. Guided by De Palm Tours, we blazed through the rough and rocky terrain, stopping at some of the most scenic points to explore and snap photos. Kids ages 12 and up are welcome to ride as a passenger.

We also checked out the local art scene with Tito Bolivar of Aruba Mural Tours. Tito’s inspiring passion for the island’s largerthan-life street art is a joy to see, along with all of the magnificent murals adorning the San Nicolas area.

Other off-resort experiences your family

will love include submarine excursions to underwater shipwrecks, coral reefs and marine life, hiking at Arikok National Park, cave exploration and even a donkey sanctuary where kids of all ages can meet, feed and learn all about the friendly animals.

The Food

The spectacular weather and the sparkling sea might be what draws people to Aruba in the first place, but the food might be what keeps them coming back. I thoroughly enjoyed every last bite of food I tasted while on the island of Aruba. There’s a variety of dining options at the resort from which to choose, and no shortage of fantastic eateries throughout the island.

At Tex-Mex themed Campeones, there’s a chips and guac bar you’ll want to hit a few times while you wait for your entree, along with an entire wall of hot sauce options to spice up your meal. At Atardi, guests will enjoy a unique and picturesque dinner experience right on the beach, savoring a gourmet meal while watching the sun slip beneath the horizon.

Kids will want to stop daily at Gelato & Co. (it’s heavenly, trust me) and parents won’t mind a trip to the lobby for some fresh sushi, a signature cocktail or some Starbucks. Beachside and poolside dining is available daily, and there’s also a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse at the resort.

Just a few short minutes away from the Aruba Marriott, Brutto serves up an eclectic array of dishes in a chic atmosphere. With options from fresh sushi, paella, and fish tacos to truffle fries and tasty sliders, we had to go family style! Everything was amazing. We also stopped at Zeerover, a popular fisherman’s wharf frequented by both locals and tourists. The menu is mostly fried but super simple - we literally ordered everything on it - and the seafood is as fresh as it gets. From the front, the place could be a dive bar. But head out back to the dining area and your jaw will drop taking in the stunning nautical views. You couldn’t be any closer to the sea if you were on an actual boat.

Ready to book your trip? Go to arubamarriott. com.

The Benefits of Preschool

By BarBara russo

Every parent wants their child to have a great education. Elementary, high school, and college learning are all undoubtedly important, but the path to a successful education can start as early as the toddler years—long before a child steps into a kindergarten classroom.

Preschool learning—also known as early childhood education—is a great option for many families and can offer a strong foundation for a successful academic career.

What is Preschool?

It seems like a silly question, but it’s important to define what preschool actually means these days. In the past, preschool was considered by many to be just a time for children to play.

Some critics have even referred to it as a form of “babysitting service.” While preschool can provide an excellent and enriching child-care opportunity for working parents, the belief that preschool is just a time for free play has changed.

Nonetheless, play is extremely important for healthy child development.

“Preschool education is extremely important for children as they develop communication, problem solving, creative and essential social and emotional skills,” said Julie Anne Penn, an expert in elementary education and co-author of Team Supercrew, a book series for kids that is centered around cognitive-behavioral therapy and socialemotional therapy.

Benefits of Preschool Learning

Some parents grapple over whether to send their child to preschool or keep them home in their toddler years. Of course, every family has its unique circumstances and its own factors to consider when making this important decision.

While there are definitely pluses to keeping your child at home, many social workers and education experts agree that preschool offers children many lasting benefits.

In fact, children who attend high-quality

preschool programs reap benefits that can last through school and their lives, according to a review of research by the Learning Policy Institute, a Palo Alto, CA, nonprofit that conducts research in the field of education policy and practice.

An overarching benefit of preschool is the vital role it plays in the development of the whole child. The pre-kindergarten years provide a time in a child’s life where social, emotional and cognitive development needs to be nourished and developed equally, many educators say.

“One of the most important skills to foster at this age is self regulation - the ability to manage emotions and behavior,” Penn said. “Children who attend preschool will learn and develop these essential skills through play, early literacy, and interaction with their classmates. This sets them up for success in Kindergarten and beyond.”

It’s important to note that preschool is often the very first time a child is apart from his or her parents and in a group of peers, which as many parents know can be stressful for a child, but an experience that will pay off in the long run.

Another similar benefit preschool provides is an opportunity to socialize in a group setting, which is something that most likely can’t be achieved at home.

“Preschool gives children an opportunity to practice social skills and develop those social skills in a real-world kind of way that also reflects what it’s going to be like once they enter into school,” Michelle Felder, LCSW, a parenting therapist and founder and CEO of Parenting Pathfinders, said.

Problem-solving and negotiating are two important skills children start to acquire in preschool, Felder explained.

Learning these two critically important skills at a young age will help provide a strong base for healthy and successful interpersonal, academic and professional relationships well into adolescence and adulthood.

“Kids have the opportunity in preschool to practice negotiating time and space with other kids, which really helps them become more prepared when they enter kindergarten,” Felder said.

“This sets a really wonderful foundation for learning how to interact with other people, how to negotiate, problem solve,

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cooperate and listen. Preschool also builds those foundational conversation skills for kids as they’re talking to peers and grownups. They get so much practice in preschool.”

Another benefit of preschool learning is that professional teachers on staff are trained to identify problems a child may have— problems that might go unnoticed by parents.

Preschool Learning: It’s Not Necessarily About Academics

Parents shouldn’t expect their child to become a whiz at reading, writing and counting in preschool. Early childhood education is much more about socialization, cognitive and emotional development, curiosity and learning through play.

Interestingly enough though, these early years are also a great time for children to form a base for another important life skill: Financial literacy. The preschool years, usually from ages 3 to 5, are an important stage when children can acquire prerequisite skills to learn about money later on, explained Jennifer Seitz, CFEI and director of education at Greenlight, a financial app for kids and teens.

“It’s never too early to start teaching the basics — from simple counting to core math skills like adding and subtracting,” Seitz said. “They also can learn introductory financial concepts, like the use of currency, through pretend play. Preschool age children can usually understand that spending will reduce the amount of money they have, and earning will increase it. Very importantly, kids should learn that money is a limited resource and therefore, it’s essential to have a plan for how it will be used.”

Preschool is often the age where kids may earn their first money by doing work or chores — whether the money is real at home, or pretend money in a classroom.

“Teachers and parents can also introduce the idea of saving by explaining that they may have to wait and save up money for something they want, rather than getting it right away or spending it on something else immediately,” Seitz said. “By introducing these concepts early on, children can develop a sense of financial responsibility and decision-making skills. They will begin to understand the importance of planning, making thoughtful choices and delaying gratification. The skills they learn from preschool activities can build a solid groundwork for their future financial skills and confidence with more complex financial concepts.”

Preschool also helps foster a child’s creativity, which is a big part of early childhood development. Teaching art to preschoolers nurtures an array of important skills.

“Fostering creativity in preschool helps children develop the ability to think outside the box, an important skill for future academic success,” Christine Hernandez, an early childhood and parenting expert, play advocate and founder of a playspace and preschool in Saratoga, NY, explained. “Young children are very literal; art helps them flex their abstract thinking muscles and learn to see the world differently. Art allows young children to express themselves freely and learn to communicate their thoughts, emotions, and ideas. Children can visually represent their inner world and share it with others.”

While reading isn’t usually in a preschool curriculum, literacy skills are often taught through art. Since art is symbolic, children use art to represent real objects, events and feelings.

Tips for Choosing a Preschool

Now that you have an overview of what preschool can offer, it’s time to choose a school. The search for the perfect preschool can be quite overwhelming, but education experts shared some tips to help make the process a little less daunting.

To start, make sure the school aligns with what’s important to you as a parent, whether it offers indoor programming, opportunities for outside play, arts-and-crafts, among other activities. Many parents might also want to consider cost, location, and teacher credentials.

Other tips for choosing a preschool include:

~Visit the school in person. Parents should have a warm and welcoming feeling when visiting a school and should feel free to ask questions.

~Look at the student-teacher ratio. Consider how important class size is to you.

~Consider toys and materials. Ask the staff if there are toys available that encourage children to be creative. These can include

dolls and plush animals to foster imaginative play, LEGOs of preschool complexity levels, puppets for storytelling, and easy-to-use drum sets, among many other options.

Changing a Preschool Mid-Year

Sometimes, despite your best efforts to find a school that suits your family’s needs, the one you chose just isn’t the right fit. While your child might be blissfully happy, it can also be the case that sometimes their school isn’t working and you may be considering a midyear jump to a new school.

The first step to switching schools is to figure out what isn’t working. Reach out to your child’s teacher or school principal.

Be honest that you’re considering a change of environment and bring up your concerns about the school. Keep in mind that you only see one side of the story as a parent and that they might have valuable insights to share about your child’s life at school.

Once you’ve laid out your concerns, listen carefully to their response and ask them whether they have any suggestions for improving the situation.

If you aren’t convinced that change will be possible and still have the same desire to make a move, ask what the process for leaving mid-year might be. If you’re at a private school, understand your billing notice period and how you will retrieve school records.

Once a new school has been chosen, mentally prepare your child for the move. Alicia Sharpe, a New York City-based education consultant, says, “Mental preparation starts at home. Speak with your child about this new coming transition; even if the child is too young to communicate with you verbally, they will understand. If possible, bring your child to visit the new school, meet the teachers, and introduce them to their new classroom before the start of the new school term. If you have an older child, help them understand that moving schools is not abnormal, but it will be an exciting fresh start. Reassure them that it’s possible to maintain friendships even when they’re at a new school, and consider how you can help them to participate in activities that current friends take part in.”

The pre-kindergarten years provide a time in a child’s life where social, emotional and cognitive development needs to be nourished and developed equally, many educators say.

Academy of St. Dorothy

1305 Hylan Boulevard

719-351-0930

academyofstdorothy.org

A private elementary school located in Old Town, Academy of St. Dorothy (ASD) offers a full time Pre-Kindergarten 4 program. Housed within its own building on the school’s 13-acre campus, ASD offers Pre-K instruction from 8:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. with early dropoff and aftercare options. The program is uniquely designed, with a UPK component from 9 - 11:30 a.m. and an optional, privatelyadministered afternoon session.

Big Bird’s Playhouse

1859 Richmond Avenue

bigbirdsplayhouse.com info@bigbirdsplayhouse.com

718-982-0550

Big Bird’s playhouse has been serving parents in Staten Island since 1991.

Providing them with a safe environment where children feel loved, respected and

safe. This is a place where they learn grow, building a foundation for their future. They believe children can learn from play, stories, arts and crafts at their daily centers. All of their staff is warm and caring to each child’s specific needs. Serving children from 3 months to 12 years old. Free PreK 3 and PreK 4. Extended hours available, Open from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm

High Hopes Childcare and Preschool

1298 Woodrow Road 718-317-8143 admin@highhopeschildcare. com

facebook.com/ HighHopesChildCare

High Hopes Childcare has offered quality childcare in a safe and loving environment since 1996. They are DOH licensed and have been collaborating with the DOE since the inception of UPK in 1996. The school offers programs for infants through

age 5 and is open MondayFriday, 7am-4:30pm.

JCC of Staten Island

1466 Manor Road

2221 Richmond Ave.

1297 Arthur Kill Road 485 Victory Blvd. 718-475-5230

Jayne Smith - jsmith@sijcc.org sijcc.org

JCC Early Education Center offers a stimulating, individualized, ageappropriate curriculum. A developmental approach fosters social and emotional growth. Day care starts at 3 months, 3-K For All, and Pre-K For All. Special needs preschool available. Extended hours are also available.

Most Terrific Child

555 Tompkins Ave. 718-273-0334

mtcdaycare@yahoo.com mtcdaycare.com

At the Most Terrific Child Center, they believe that children learn best through exploration and hands-on

experiences. They acquire the ability to relate to the world around them through active engagement with their environment. There is a balance between indoor and outdoor time, active and quiet activities, and individual and group routines. Each child is treated with love and respect. They believe expressing oneself is a key value for all children.

Prodigy Preschool

3080 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-4800

Sarah Tirro - sarahtirro@ thepavilion.org

Prodigy Preschool at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion is a Pre-K For All Department of Education 4-year-old specialty program in which children learn the fundamentals of ice skating and become academically prepared for kindergarten. Small classroom size provides an intimate setting where children are able to receive much one-on-one attention

i t y , s e r v i c e , r e v e r e n c e a n d l e a d e r s h i p of community, service, reverence and leadership. A S D o f f e r s i n s t r u c t i o n , a c t i v i t i e s a n d s p o r t s o n i t s ASD offers instruction, activities and sports on its v a s t a n d e a s i l y a c c e s s i b l e 1 3 - a c r

from NY State certified teachers. In small groups, children learn the techniques and foundations of ice skating during one hour of on-ice activities a few days per week. Prodigy is a home away from home for children where they can learn, laugh, grow, and have fun.

Staten Island Academy

715 Todt Hill Road

718-303-7803

statenislandacademy.org

Programs available are coed college prep school beginning in Pre-K3 through Grade 12. Included with tuition is 7AM to 7PM Extended Day program. Full-day, 3-days or 5-days a week programs are offered

for Pre-K3 students. Science, art, music and theater in addition to American Sign Language through Grade 4. Distinguished Patrick Academic Resource Center staffed by Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Needbased financial aid is available from Kindergarten.

St. Joseph Hill Academy

850 Hylan Blvd. stjosephhillacademy.com

St. Joseph Hill Academy

Elementary school is a premier co-educational school. Students from Pre-K3 to 8th grade are nurtured in Catholic traditions and the students develop a lifelong love of learning. They are proud to be

a PLTW Distinguished Gateway school.

Tender Care Preschool

Catholic Charities of Staten Island

6581 Hylan Blvd. 718-317-2849

lmazzo@cc-si.org

tendercarepreschool.com

Tender Care Preschool is a loving and caring place for children and families. The School supports children where they need it and challenges them when they are ready for the next step. At Tender Care Preschool, children become lifelong learners with a strong foundation and are well prepared for their educational

journey. Full-day 2-year-old class. Free full-day 3K and pre-K. Extended hours: 7am6pm.

Tiny Treasures University

396 Van Duzer Street

718-273-5157

main@tinytuniversity.com

Tiny Treasures Academy and University are a daycare, preschool, pre-kindergarten and wellness center with a twist on traditional ways of enhancing children’s development and supporting the modern-day parent. Both centers offer a holistic approach in body and mind to equip kids with a strong foundation. Custom schedules are available

A Whole New Wortd

A parents' guide to exploring the new Gilder Center inside the American Museum of Natural History

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

We’re sure we visited the American Museum of Natural History before kids entered the picture. Still, like many parents, we, along with travelers from around the world, head uptown to indulge in the panoramic windows, planetarium, library, cultural artifacts (and more) every year. Last year alone, there were one million visitors, which is about to go up with the museum’s newest addition, the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation. Located on the west side of the campus at Columbus Avenue and 79th Street, in Theodore Roosevelt Park, this stunning (it is captivating, trust us) extension of AMNH is now open to the public.

The Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation wing is the new museum that New Yorkers didn’t know we needed but will be delighted it is now part of our city’s cultural offerings. In a recent press release, New York City Mayor Eric Adams shared, “AMNH has been a beacon in our city for decades, bringing a glimpse of the many wonders of the world to New Yorkers. As one of the City’s largest cultural capital projects in recent history, I am excited to see what innovative and captivating exhibitions our City will get to explore next.”

We are also excited, and it all started upon our first glimpse of this iconic center when it was under construction, and now that it is officially open — we are thrilled for you to to see it!

There is a lot to take in at AMNH’s newest addition, we want to you to find your own gems on your visit but also wish to provide a guide so you can strategize your visit.

Admission at AMNH/Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation

Your admission ticket for AMNH is also valid

Helpful Tips:

• You can bring a stroller, and there are elevators, but this museum will get busy. If your child is in the light stroller phase, definitely bring it. If you carry your baby/toddler, a baby carrier will allow you to enjoy the stairs (the view is phenomenal.)

• Table service dining of American cuisine with both local and and global influences can be found at the Restaurant at Gilder on the second floor.

at the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation. However, the museum still requires timed reservations; reserve them here. Once you purchase your ticket online, you can pick the time slot for the exhibitions you wish to visit; yes, they are booking up, so please be aware of this. While most of the exhibits are part of your ticket, some you can visit only with a purchased ticket (not a pay-as-you-wish ticket open to NY, NJ, or CT Residents ).

The Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation

The center is nestled by a vast landscape developed by Reed Hilderbrand (along with community input), which is airy and open. Pathways are wide enough for a stroller (yay), and there are seating areas.

As soon as you enter the Gilder Center, you’ll be at the heart of the five-story Kenneth C. Griffin Exploration Atrium. The 230,000 architectural space was designed by Studio Gang, led by Jeanne Gang researched caves and canyons, which inspired the design

of this gorgeous space. Designed in the shape of steel, glass with what the museum has coined as “shotcrete,” invites sunshine throughout the center. The space was designed for natural light to radiate through the skylights. This glow hugs the surrounding environment as well as the large picturesque windows that can be found in many parts of the center. With this new edition, it is easy to see how this center’s goal is for people to

understand and see science in educational, fun, and creative ways.

Bug Out at the Susan and Peter J. Solomon Family Insectarium

The curators at the Gilder Center want you to love bugs, like really love bugs. And they show you why at the Susan and Peter J. Solomon Family Insectarium located on the ground floor. This 5,000-square-foot space is

about education, showing why these diverse groups of insects, animals and more are crucial to our planet and why we must value them. Seriously, at one point, a curator made a case for the New York roach, and we were all in, yay, cockroaches.

In this space, kids will be introduced to as many of the 30 orders of insects as possible and can learn about their ecosystems, evolution, and how they benefit us. Hint,

there are many ways and reasons we need to understand insects. In this space, you can explore the Ant Vision station -check out the ants in action, and learn about bugs through interactive touch screens that teach about our boroughs’ insects and how they are essential to the ecosystem.

And the bees get extra love, for our planet is in trouble without bees. The 8,000-lb resin model is stunning and with a tap at the

Alvaro Keding/©AMNH

screen, be ready to be educated about honey bees.

Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium at Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation Yearround

If you have not yet had the opportunity to enjoy the seasonal Butterfly Conservatory at AMNH, you will not want to miss this immersive experience. You will be happy to learn that the butterflies will now be full time residents in the 3,000-square-foot Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium. Their new home is located on the second floor in a 2,500-square-foot space where you will find up to 1,000 free-flying beauties. There will be boards that identify the up to 80 species flying about to learn all about these creatures. Your kids will learn about the butterfly’s life cycle and more in the pupae incubator. Kids will love the magnifying glasses at the feeding dishes; there will undoubtedly be a gorgeous butterfly snacking on something sweet.

To enter the space, you go through two sets of doors before you enter as the room is the climate (feels like a warm, humid NY day) controlled for these gentle species, and we expect there will be a line as the museum is careful to gently bring visitors through so the butterflies can safely go about their day. This section is included in a purchased ticket (not the pay-as-you-wish option)- don’t fret; the

Alvaro Keding/©AMNH

Iwan Baan

Dennis Finnin/©AMNH

Iwan Baan

ADDICTION AFFECTS THE WHOLE FAMILY

YMCA COUNSELING SERVICE

The YMCA Counseling Service offers comprehensive services for the whole family including:

• Little StepsSM is for children ages 4-17 who have been impacted by a close loved one’s substance use. Little StepsSM teaches children that they did not cause the addiction and that they can’t stop their loved one from using, but that families can and do get better if they get the support they need.

• Prevention programs for individuals struggling with high risk behaviors, such as experimentation with drugs or alcohol

• Treatment programs & services for adolescents, adults, & families struggling with a substance use disorder

• Parenting skill building programs

• Family Association group offering support for adults who are affected by a loved one’s substance use

It is estimated that 25% of children grow up in a household where parental substance use is a factor. This increases the likelihood that future generations will also struggle with substance use disorder.

If you know a family struggling with substance use, contact us today. We can help!

Call 718-948-3232 I ymcanyc.org/counseling

vivarium is enclosed in glass windows where you can peek.

Invisible Worlds

From the first under-construction visit, it was understood that the Gilder Center knows its audience. While we had a sneak peek, most press media kept expressing how this museum would completely wow kids. While excellent for all ages, the Invisible Worlds (located on the third floor) also forays into kid and teen territory with a science-and-art 360-degree experience that they may even stay off their phones for because this experience is a vibe and one that should be taken in. The core of this life on earth ‘experience’ is to understand how on a cellular level, we are all interconnected and was created with data visualization from the museums’ team and top researchers from around the world.

The Gilder Center includes 18 classrooms that will be used for after-school programs and field trips. Come fall, working with Urban Advantage Program; the center will start a residency program for students, The Beyond Elementary Explorations in Science (BEES) pilot.

Iwan Baan

Alvaro Keding/©AMNH

Alvaro Keding/©AMNH

Iwan Baan

Gender-Affirming Care Bans Across the U.S.

What New York parents need to know about this divisive topic

By BarBara russo

Transgender activism is one of the most divisive topics facing the United States today.

As part of an ongoing debate pitting parents, politicians, activists and others against each other, laws and policies are being passed in states across the country that either support or restrict trans rights. Gender-affirming healthcare for kids is at the forefront of the issue. But this topic begs so many questions from parents, including: What exactly is gender-affirming healthcare? Why are states banning it? And what does it mean for families in New York?

Gender-Affirming Healthcare for Kids: Is it Banned in New York?

No. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul and other state officials have shown their continued support for the transgender community. And there is nothing in existing state law that restricts gender-affirming care in New York, according to the governor’s office. In fact, the state is taking it a step further with a trans-focused bill that just passed the senate judiciary committee.

Democratic state senator, Brad HoylmanSigal, recently sponsored the Trans Safe Haven bill, which would make NYS a refuge for out-of-state youth seeking genderaffirming care.

“Trans people remain under attack every day across the country. They should have a haven in New York,” Hoylman-Sigal tweeted on March 31.

According to the New York Civil Liberties Union, teens need parental consent to receive gender-affirming care in most cases, but not all.

If Hoylman-Sigal’s bill gets approved by the state Assembly, it’ll make its way to the governor’s desk. It’s still a bit early, so there’s no word yet on whether Hochul will sign or veto the bill.

Much of the senate bill relates to certain prohibitions regarding the legal system and gender-affirming care. According to the

senator’s Twitter page, the bill:

• Ensures kids will not be separated from their parents for aiding in their access to gender affirming care.

• Prohibits law enforcement from cooperating with other states’ investigations regarding legal gender-affirming care.

• Protects the health information of people who come to NYS to receive genderaffirming care.

• Protects physicians who provide genderaffirming care in NYS.

But what is it that’s at the center of the controversy? Throughout the country, both supporters and those who question genderaffirming care want parents to know what this kind of medicine actually means for kids.

What is Gender-Affirming Healthcare?

Like any divisive issue, it depends who you ask. In an op-ed letter to the Wall Street Journal on Aug. 21, 2022, Moira Szilagyi, M.D., past president of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), wrote:

“In its recommendations for caring for transgender and gender-diverse young people, the AAP advises pediatricians to offer developmentally appropriate care that is oriented toward understanding and appreciating the youth’s gender experience. This care is nonjudgmental, includes families and allows questions and concerns to be raised in a supportive environment. This is what it means to “affirm” a child or teen; it means destigmatizing gender variance and promoting a child’s self-worth. Genderaffirming care can be lifesaving. It doesn’t push medical treatments or surgery; for the vast majority of children, it recommends the opposite.”

Other medical organizations including the American Medical Association and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health have expressed support for gender-affirming care. But there are many parents, doctors, researchers and others who have concerns about transitioning kids and the movement’s rapid rise to society’s center stage.

Leor Sapir, Ph.D., is a fellow at the Manhattan Institute, a research and policy think tank, who’s researched a variety of transgender issues. He explained that these medical organizations don’t have much in the way of solid medical proof to back up their claims that gender-affirming care works. None of them, he said, have done systematic reviews of their evidence— a method of review designed to prevent biased analysis.

Sapir also cites the recent reversals of gender transition policies in several European countries, including Sweden, which is considered one of the friendliest countries to LGBTQ people.

“Systematic reviews were done in Sweden, Finland and the U.K. All those reviews came back with the same conclusion, which is that the evidence for gender-affirming care is extremely weak,” Sapir said. “Finland’s health authority declared it an experimental practice. That’s why all these countries now have placed severe restrictions on access to hormones.”

Patients in these countries can receive hormone treatments for gender dysphoria in very limited circumstances and only within research settings. This means everyone is in agreement—specifically patient and doctor—that the treatment is considered a medical experiment, Sapir explained. In the United States, things are different.

“Here in the United States, American medical groups have said it’s settled science, there are no doubts and if anyone disagrees, it must be because they’re driven by some kind of animus or bigotry,” Sapir said. “So the relevant question to ask is, ‘Why are American medical groups so out of whack with a growing international consensus against gender-affirming care?’”

What Does Gender-Affirming Healthcare for Kids Include?

The World Health Organization defines gender affirming care as “any single or combination of a number of social,

psychological, behavioral or medical interventions designed to support and affirm an individual’s gender identity.”

Presley Nichols, M.D., is a pediatric endocrinology fellow at Columbia New YorkPresbyterian. She provides endocrine care to kids suffering from a variety of conditions, including type 1 diabetes and thyroid disease. Her work also includes gender-affirming care, which she described as an umbrella term for any kind of treatment that’s affirming. This could even include a social transition, long before a child receives actual medical treatment.

Social transitioning for a child can include things like choosing pronouns they’re comfortable with, dressing in a way that feels right and going by a different name.

“These are things that people sometimes do if they know early, and a lot of kids do,” the doctor explained. “A lot of kids will express this as early as they’re aware of gender.”

Social transitioning is a time for support, and there’s no medicine involved at this point, Nichols said.

Aside from social transitioning, medical interventions can include hormonal therapy, such as puberty blockers, which doctors can give to suppress the progression of puberty. Treatment can also include sex steroid therapy with estrogen or testosterone.

Parents might wonder: Is genderaffirming care reversible?

Nichols described gender-affirming care as having stages of reversibility—if a person chooses to do so.

“Puberty blockers—completely reversible. You can totally take them off and nothing has happened,” Nichols explained. “Sometimes when you introduce estrogen or testosterone, you can introduce some less reversible changes. And then, of course, surgery is the least reversible.”

Non-reversible effects of taking sex steroids include some body modifications, voice changes and possibly issues with fertility, Nichols explained.

Gender-Affirming Care: Is it Lifesaving for Kids?

Supporters of gender-affirming care say children with gender dysphoria are at an increased risk of attempting suicide. But that risk drops significantly for LGBTQ kids who live in a community that’s more accepting of LGBTQ people, according to The Trevor Project, an advocacy group for LGBTQ youth.

According to a recent survey by the organization, nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide last year. At the same time, the survey also found that 60% of LGBTQ youth who wanted mental healthcare in the past year were not able to get it.

“The top four barriers to care reported by youth were fears around discussing mental health, concerns with parental permission, fears of not being taken seriously, and lack of affordability,” Kasey Suffredini, vice president of advocacy and government affairs for The Trevor Project, said.

But Sapir calls this statistic irresponsible and does not tell the full story.

“What we don’t know is whether gender dysphoria in and of itself causes a person to be inclined toward suicidal behaviors,” Sapir said. “And the reason we don’t know that is because a vast majority of kids with gender dysphoria—especially teenage girls—who present to gender clinics have preexisting

underlining mental health problems which are themselves linked to suicide.”

Anxiety, depression and even autism are risk factors for suicide and suicidality. (NOTE: Suicidality refers to thoughts of suicide, plans or gestures, as opposed to suicide, which refers to completed, sincere or serious attempts to end one’s life). Sapir cited the Tavistock Clinic, a now-closed genderaffirming care clinic in England, where 1 in 3 patients was diagnosed with autism.

“So the question is, are we seeing kids who are already prone to suicidal behaviors gravitating toward a trans identity, maybe thinking that the solution to their mental health problem is gender transition? That’s certainly what they’re being told,” Sapir said. “Or, are we seeing evidence that there just are these kids who are born trans and are inherently suicidal if not affirmed? If you look at the totality of the evidence and the causal relationships, the first explanation is much, much more likely.”

Speaking of youth mental health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), released data in February showing teenage girls in particular are experiencing a worsening mental-health crisis.

A Look at State Policies

As the wave of safe haven bills and bans on gender-affirming care cover the country, a key thing to know is that these policies are being made on the state level. But, the Biden administration has made it clear that they are against restrictive state policies on many transgender issues, including genderaffirming healthcare for kids.

The Trevor Project is tracking many bills being introduced across the country aimed at transgender and non-binary young people.

“Amid this public health crisis, it’s heartbreaking to see the government overreach on display across the country, as lawmakers push to criminalize the provision of age-appropriate, medically-necessary care that has shown promise for reducing suicide risk,” Suffredini said. “The proposed legislation would strip away best-practice care that many trans young people rely on to lead healthy, happy lives, and only further fuel stigma and isolation. And it’s not just these misguided policies that pose a threat, it’s the vitriolic public debates around them. 86% of transgender and nonbinary young people say recent debates about state laws restricting the rights of transgender people have negatively impacted their mental health.”

Here’s a look at the status of other gender-

affirming healthcare bills and laws passing through states at press time:

California: Governor Gavin Newsom passed a law in January that provides refuge for trans kids and their families who come from states outlawing gender-affirming care. The law inspired other states to introduce similar “trans refuge” bills across the country.

New Jersey: Governor Phil Murphy signed an executive order declaring the state a safe haven for people seeking genderaffirming care.

Minnesota: Governor Tim Walz signed a bill into law in April that protects people seeking or providing gender-affirming healthcare in Minnesota.

South Dakota: Governor Kristi Noem signed a bill banning gender-affirming care for anyone younger than 18.

Georgia: Governor Brian Kemp signed a bill prohibiting most gender-affirming care treatments in minors.

Iowa: Governor Kim Reynolds signed

into law in March a bill banning gender transition procedures in minors. She also signed a bill into law preventing people from entering restrooms or changing areas in schools that do not correspond with the person’s biological sex.

Tennessee: A state ban on genderaffirming healthcare for kids will go into effect July 1. The U.S. Justice Department is currently challenging this ban.

Mississippi: The state bans gender transition procedures for minors. It also prevents public funds or tax deductions for prohibited gender transition procedures, places enforcement procedures on the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure and stops Medicaid from covering gender transition for persons under 18.

Utah: Earlier this year, Governor Spencer Cox signed a bill that prohibits transgender surgery for minors. It also prohibits healthcare providers from giving hormonal transgender treatment to new patients who were not diagnosed with gender dysphoria before a certain date. The law says a person can bring medical malpractice action related to certain medical treatments and procedures.

Florida: Last year, Florida medical boards voted to ban gender-affirming care to treat gender dysphoria in kids. The state also has the Parental Rights in Education Law and Stop WOKE on the books.

Arkansas: Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed a new law that makes it easier to sue providers of gender-affirming care for minors.

Indiana: Governor Eric Holcomb signed a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors.

Idaho: Starting in 2024, gender-affirming care for trans youth will be banned.

Montana: Governor Greg Gianforte signed a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors.

Oklahoma: Governor Kevin Stitt signed a bill on May 1 banning all irreversible gender transition surgeries and hormone therapies for minors. The new law bans the use of any medications or surgical procedures for the purpose of gender transition. Penalties for violation include felony charges, license revocation and civil actions which can be filed by a parent or guardian.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, help is just a phone call away. Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides 24/7, free and confidential support and resources for people in distress.

A Guide to Hosting a Mother Blessing

BY MOMMYBITES.COM

Have you heard of a Mother Blessing celebration? From gender reveals and baby showers to sprinkles and sip and sees, we’ve culturally nailed the whole celebrating new babies thing. It can feel like new and expecting moms receive gifts every step of the way, and while all the baby gear and gadgets are a legitimate must, what we’re learning moms need more of is support.

“Women’s circles have been making a big comeback,” says Janae Bell, a certified yoga and meditation instructor, moon circle teacher, and founder of Goddess and the Moon. “When we come together as a collective and heal together it allows us to call our power back.” For moms who need help remembering their power and strength, a Mother Blessing is the ultimate women’s circle. “When you’re able to slow down with your sisters and those closest to you, it helps you spiritually and mentally prepare for birth,” says Bell.

What happens at a Mother Blessing?

A Mother Blessing or Mama Blessing is an intimate gathering where the expectant mother is ceremoniously honored and supported by her close friends and family as she prepares for childbirth and motherhood. “It provides a safe and loving space for a mother to express her vulnerability, excitement, and fears and to celebrate this rite of passage which we don’t do often enough,” says Bell.

While the ritual stems from indigenous blessing ceremonies, Bell suggests respectfully creating your own unique experience. “Do what the mother likes rather than trying too hard to do what other people have done. At the end of the day it’s about making it a special experience for her,” she says.

Where to host a Mother Blessing

It’s best to choose an intimate space for a Mother Blessing that can hold 10 to 20 of the

mom’s closest family and friends. That may be in a living room, a friend’s garden, a yoga studio–anywhere the mom will feel most comfortable. In this space, it’s common to set up an altar. “It doesn’t have to be super witchy or religious,” says Bell. “I like to incorporate natural elements of earth, wind, water, and fire, and I set out snacks and light incense to engage all of the senses.”

The best time to have a Mother Blessing

A Mother Blessing is commonly held at the end of the pregnancy or around 36 weeks. “The best time to have one is during a new moon,” says Bell. “It’s a time of setting intentions and welcoming new beginnings and fresh energy into your life.” Full moons are a good time for a baby blessing since they invoke feelings of celebration and release.

Activities for a Mother Blessing

Mom and her guests should be seated in a circle. To break the ice, start by sharing your astrology sign and a favorite memory of the mom. “Think of times she’s held you, supported you, and made you laugh to make the mother feel good,” says Bell. Next, allow the mother to discuss her fears or write them down on paper. At a recent Mama Blessing that Bell facilitated, each guest also wrote a blessing or a wish or a piece of advice on a dissolving paper and placed it into a jar of water. You can also make mom

a flower crown, paint her belly with metallic tattoos, and give her a foot bath. “It’s about choosing activities that help the mother feel empowered,” says Bell.

Mother Blessing Meditation and Prayers

Typically a Mother Blessing is spiritual versus religious. You can lead the group in meditation or play a guided meditation for love or support, says Bell. It’s also common to share a reading, poem, short story, song lyrics–choose something that’s meaningful and sets the intention. “Whatever speaks to you and the mother will be best,” she says.

Mother Blessing Gift Ideas

Unlike baby showers, gifts are not always necessary. But if you feel inclined, think about what the mom may need or want for birth or recovery, or what she might need personally in those first days or weeks home from the hospital with a newborn. Bell recently created candles with fresh herbs for all of the women at a Mama Blessing. “We set and built the intention of the candle with love and support, then when she went into labor we all lit the candle,” she explains. “It was a symbol of positivity and a way for her to remember her strength.”

“After you do a mama blessing the first time it tends to become a tradition,” says Bell. When you’re pregnant and entering motherhood, it helps us honor the connection between physical and spiritual realms.”

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By Donna Duarte-LaDD

Right before the pandemic, I found myself on a layover in Scotland (whoo hoo) and decided to explore Edinburgh Castle, but I wasn’t too prepared wardrobe-wise for this castle excursion. I hopped off the train and dashed into Primark, a mega-retailer I knew primarily resided in the Uk and Europe. It is tough to impress me, but I was impressed by the stylish offerings and the affordability of the clothes. I left with pieces (and a warm coat under $40) that I still cherish.

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Hemza Aburabia

Aseel Aburabia

Mohammed Aburabia

Danielle Lomagno

Paisley Champion

JULY 16

Nicholas Marchisotto

Haeley Victoria

Guardascione

Andrew Wu

Paige Jakubowski

Alyssa Bailey

Ronald H. Coury, Jr.

Dante Salazar

Nicolette Chicchetti

Dante Salazar

JULY 17

Madison Rose Gorman

Francesca Scalzo

Frankie Shor

Camille Banks

Deondra Mapp Jr.

Noah Mirto

Maayana Medovoy

Philip Borazzo

Nilayah Ledan

Sofia Cristini

Stella Ginsberg

JULY 18

Erik Crowl

Valerie Sansevero

Amanda DeLalla

Danielle Procheck

Kate Emerich

Charlye Burke

Caitlyn Snyder

Marcello Squarciafico

JULY 19

Christopher Costigan

Anastasia Matiatos

Michael Jacobson

Dylan Robert

Villamagna

Emma Caraballo

Mara Katsoufis

Dylan Villamagna

Angelica Chyorny

Sabrina Iacono

James Scarpulla

JULY 20

Jason DeFramco

Amanda Krisky

Courtney Jade

Amantea

Gianna Arcuri

Kailyn Sage

Alexis Costa

Kalecia Littman

Jerry Cerrai

Raymond AyalaMaikisch

Giuliana Florio

Hela Andrahennedige

JULY 21

Jaiden Robledo

Lucas Scamardella

Vincenzo Lanni

Milania Litrell

Kaitlyn Bradshaw

Heather Bradshaw

Nicholas Graber

Vincenzo Lanni

Brett Tisman

Marcella Emmanuele

Aaron Guzman

Say’vion Gravely

JULY 22

Alyssa Desouza

Stacy O’Neill

Garnett B. Holton

Antonio Pecoraro

Cassandra Calderon

Kristina Byrne

John Carrescia

Jenna Carrescia

Ruth Zapata

JULY 23

Joseph Geloso

Gianna Litrell

Jonathan G. Rodriguez

Michael A. Amedeo

Elijah Javois

Imma Mary Turay

Paige Weinstein

David De Santis

Gloria-Anastasia

Genidy

Briana Payton

Keanu Valentin

JULY 24

Sneha Banerjee

Matthew Krieg

Abigail Maurelli

Joseph Prancl

Laura Santora

Brittany Organo

Janice Hernandez

Mario Avenoso

Aden Du

Blake Eskenazi

Lea Raschella

Lia Camelitti

JULY 25

Pamyla Cummings

Jesus Perez

Sydney Rose Huertas

Darren Ligotti

Oneth Ganegoda

Gamage

Ryan Chu

Darren Ligotti

Sharif Mccrimon

Amira Swaisa

Samantha Friscia

Olivia Miller

Jason Russello

Teddy Robinson

JULY 26

Marissa Eisenberg

Edgar Varela, Jr.

Taylor Marchione

Gregory DiGiaro

Amanda FisherRodriguez

Olivia Wynne

Michael Caprioni

Miguel Esteves IV

Michael Demarest

Dylan Hillers

Ethan Chyorny

Sofia Pellizzi

JULY 27

Caitlyn Amber Bove

Jennifer Finan

Victoria Sorensen

Vincent Wiseman

Madison Alfano

Javan Pastoriza

Edward Mercado

Vincent Wiseman

James Stavola

Masarrat Alam

JULY 28

Amanda Samuels

Andrew Barb

Matthew Scaduto

William Jaenicke

Jasmine Ann Patterson

Christopher Gomez

Benjamin Walfish

Julianna Batista

Elizabeth Maniscalco

Olivia Bernabe

JULY 29

Thomas Cariddi

Don James Kiviella

Amanda Rivera

Rachel Driscoll

Molly Driscoll

Kyler Monti

Edward Monahan

Gioia Cerrai

Brielle Rosario

Sabrina Barraclough

Sacha Murphy

Michael Camelitti

David Arowolo

JULY 30

Terry Mackenzie

Terry Makayla

Thomas Kennedy

Erika Rivette

Marcua Ragusa

Feyza Durmaz

Taj Metellus

David Tobe III

Dasani Wright

Joseph Capucci

JULY 31

Kareem Cargill

Jayden Gomez

Andrew Watts

Jayden Ruiz

Luca Weisman

Noah Polakowski

Joyce Howard

Johnny Howard

Noah Polakowski

Eli Medina

Jayden Ruiz

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Family Road Trips

by Mia Sala S

Looking to take a trip with your family this summer? Getting out of the city may be just the thing you need! If you’re not looking to go too far, try a summer road trip. Skip the hustle and bustle of the airport, and make memories on the road towards your destination.

But before you get in the car or train, let’s create your perfect road trip itinerary. Finding a vacation that all of your kids will enjoy isn’t always the easiest task. That’s why we rounded up our favorite summer road trips this year. Read on to find the best destination for your family this summer!

Discover Central Massachusetts Central Massachusetts offers its warmest welcome to visitors each summer! A road trip to the region will be full of outdoor fun, animal sightings and scenic views.

Kids enjoy New England’s largest zoological experience at Southwick’s Zoo, home to 850+ animal residents in the heart of the Blackstone River Valley.

A few towns over, travelers find sheep, pigs, oxen and cows roaming Old Sturbridge Village, the immersive regional attraction that depicts life as it stood in an early 19thcentury village.

For families who truly love nature, this is the roadtrip for you! There’s the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, designed to ignite children’s imaginations through educational opportunities in a naturalistic setting.

And let’s not forget The Farm at SummitWynds each summer which has workshops, retreats and festivals spotlighting the stunning floral covered grounds.

Start planning your trip today!

Photo: GoProvidence

Dutchess County Fair

Whether this is your first time visiting this famous fair or the one your family has waited for all year, the Dutchess County Fair is among the world’s best fairs. It is familyfriendly, with activities and adventures for all, and it is only a car or train ride away. This year’s 177th fair runs from August 22nd through 27th in Rhinebeck, NY. As the largest agricultural six-day fair in NY, there’s plenty for every member of the family to do– go on rides, eat great food and listen to entertaining music. The fair’s goal is to give visitors an appreciation for agriculture while educating them on where the food we eat comes from, all while having a blast!

Your kids will love meeting farm animals like cows, horses, pigs, chickens, sheep, rabbits and goats. With over 1,000 individual exhibitors, your family won’t know what to do first. Explore 12 acres of livestock, milking demonstrations and sheep shearing, meet costumed storytellers from the early 1900’s, and shop artisanal goods and handmade crafts and quilts. Younger kids (ages 3-10) can visit a hands-on mock farm in the AgVenture Activity Tent while adults will appreciate the horticultural beauty of

dozens of themed garden displays.

Be sure to purchase advance discount tickets to secure your spot at a great deal! Dutchessfair.com

Frederick County, Maryland

In need of a peaceful, relaxing and scenic getaway? Frederick County, Maryland can provide just that! History lovers will enjoy learning about Frederick’s part during the American Civil War, including battlefields, Monocacy National Battlefield and South Mountain State Battlefield. Families can take beautiful hikes through Chimney Rock in Catoctin Mountain Park or Cunningham Falls State Park.

You could even spend the day with animals at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve, or ride a themed train on Walkersville Southern Railroad. And with 20 nationally-branded hotels and camping sites nearby, it’s easy to book a stay.

For families traveling in June, check out the Frederick Festival of the Arts on June 10th. There will be outdoor dining, specialty shops and 150+ exhibitors featuring their art. If you’re planning a July visit, don’t miss the National Clustered Spires High Wheel Race on July 15th. The only race of its kind in the nation, this high wheel bike race features racers from all over speeding through the streets of Downtown Frederick. Visitfrederick.org

Great Northern Catskills of Greene County

Whether you’re looking to chill, seek adventure or both, you can find it all in the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County, conveniently located about two hours north of New York City and a half hour south of Albany.

There’s something for everyone here! Thrill seekers can spend an afternoon at one of North America’s longest, fastest and highest zipline canopy tours – New York Zipline Canopy Tours in Hunter. Outdoor adventures are a given in the Catskills, with 700,000 acres of wilderness and 120 miles of mountain bike trails, there is always something for the entire family.

To cool off after a bike ride, head over to New York’s #1 family waterpark—Zoom Flume Water Park in East Durham. Once your family tires out, take a breathtaking scenic skyride to the top of the Hunter or Windham Mountains. On a clear day, the summits offer panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and beyond.

And if you’re looking to stay a few days, head over to one of the classic Catskill allinclusive family resorts!

The Kartrite Resort

Want an all-in-one destination that will guarantee endless family adventures this summer? The Kartrite Resort located in the Catskill Mountains is home to NY’s biggest indoor waterpark and much more. Spend an entire day at the 11 waterpark attractions just a 90-minute drive from the city, then check into one of the new and modern resort suites to get some rest. All suites (available as 1, 2 or 3 bedroom) come with 4 passes for the waterpark for the day of check in and check out. Beyond the water fun, enjoy The Kartrite's 7 eclectic eateries and bars, arts & crafts, archery, goat yoga, pony rides and hiking. Plus, if you want to escape the heat, head indoors to endless fun at Playopolis arcade, laser tag, ropes course, rock climbing, bowling, virtual reality and more. You could even plan your trip around one of the themed weeks: June 15-19: Adventure Week, July 2-8: Independence Week, or August 20-26: Superhero Week. And if you have a special occasion coming up like a summer birthday or bar/bat mitzvah, exciting promotions and packages await!

YOUR NEW JERSEY SUMMER ESCAPE AWAITS

Drift away to 130 miles of famous Jersey Shore. Discover family-friendly boardwalks, seaside amusement piers, theme parks and shopping meccas. Dive into history, art and culture. And take exciting journeys, like our American Revolution and Black Heritage trip Itineraries.

Plan your getaway and access your free VisitNJ.org.

New Jersey

New Jersey summers are action-packed and full of family-friendly activities, especially for the beach lovers! With 130 miles of the Jersey Shore, your family can walk the boardwalk, build sand castles and enjoy delicious food by the water.

Take a trip to one of the zoos in the area— Cape May County Park & Zoo, Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange and Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton.

Get active by kayaking, horseback riding, hiking and biking at New Jersey’s recreational hot spots and calm waterways.

You can even get your dose of arts and culture at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City and Newark Museum of Art.

Paterson Great Falls Historic Park and Liberty State Park offer a glimpse into the past and Black Heritage itineraries stop at must-see sites running through the heart and soul of the state. New Jersey has a lot to offer families, especially being so close to NYC!

Nyack

Only 24 miles north of NYC on the banks of the Hudson in beautiful Rockland County, the village of Nyack is perfect for your next family road trip. Nyack offers hundreds of experiences and events that make for great day trips, weekend getaways and longer stays – a treasure trove packed into just over one walkable square mile.

Take a walk on one of the many local hiking trails, bike across the Governor Mario Cuomo Bridge, and take in all of the incredible views of the river. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the boat charters and water sports in the river itself. For a more peaceful itinerary, enjoy the arts by visiting the Edward Hopper House Museum, theaters, music and comedy shows.

You may even want to plan your trip around one or more of Nyack’s many signature events, including street fairs, classic and exotic car nights, the African American Day parade, LGBTQ+ promenade, 4th of July fireworks, outdoor concerts and food tours. Your family will also love the weekly Farmer’s Markets, which feature live music, fresh goods from local farms and artisans, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Make memories this summer in Nyack!

The

resort & indoor waterpark

555 Resorts World Dr. Monticello, NY 12701 www.thekartrite.com

An easy 90-minute car ride from NYC lands you here, The Kartrite Resort.

New York’s newest and biggest indoor waterpark. Modern and stylish suites. Hi-Tech Adventure Zone. 8 eclectic eateries and bars. Daily activities schedule, bowling, a ropes course, and laser tag. Gorgeous hiking trails. 11,000 square feet of meeting space to accommodate large or small groups.

And much, much more. Just a short walk to the spectacular Resorts World Catskills Casino Resort!

Located in the heart of the beautiful Catskills.

Playland

The name “Play” land should say it all! Not too far from Manhattan, Westchester’s top park for the last 94 years says: “It’s time to play.” There is something for all ages, from the littlest ones to tweens and teens. With famous rides, midway games and new thrills, you’re guaranteed a day filled with fun, laughs, and unforgettable memories.

In addition to regular live entertainment and shows, this season the brand new Fountain Plaza will bring even more excitement to the park, where families can dance along with synchronized lights and music.

Once your family gets tired of the rides, head to the famous boardwalk -shop for souvenirs, and visit the Westchester Children’s Museum. Grab a bite at one of the many restaurants, like burgers at Jack Burger or yummy tacos at Taco Casa. Cool off at Playland Beach, featuring a new waterfront slide, at the Playland Pool or even hop on a paddle boat. Your kids will be plotting their next visit to Playland!

Putnam County Country Fest & 4-H Showcase

Don’t miss out on the country festival families love, happening July 29th to 30th at Veteran’s Memorial Park this summer!

Just an easy car drive away, the 4-H fair brings thousands of locals and visitors to enjoy this eclectic mix of traditions where little and big kids will have fun adventures at the Putnam County Country Fest & 4-H Showcase.

There are food trucks, treats, countrythemed vendors, games, demos, exhibits, magic shows, inflatables and more. Listen to live music, watch the classic car show, and even attend the Duck Derby fundraiser.

Kids will leave with full stomachs, mini artistic masterpieces and many memories to last a lifetime. There’s free parking and admission, so grab your sunscreen and get going!

By car or by train, take a day trip to Putnam County, where there’s always another reason to say “I Love New York.” Be sure to visit iloveny.com for more information about a New York State getaway.

COME SOAR. COME SMILE. COME SEE WHAT ALL THE EXCITEMENT IS ABOUT. ROCHESTER, NY IS THE PERFECT FAMILY GETAWAY FOR UNIQUE AND EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES.

Did we mention the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games? Pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable trip in a destination full of surprises. With fun for every family, every season of the year, playtime tends to last a little longer in our backyard.

© Genesee Country Village & Museum. The Strong National Museum of Play, Seabreeze Amusement

Rhode Island

Plan a summer family getaway and see why they call Rhode Island “The Ocean State!” Here are some top family-friendly attractions throughout each of the state’s six regions.

Blackstone Valley. Blackstone Valley is home to the fastest indoor karting track in the country. Head to Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket for a mix of art studios and retail shops. Blackstone Valley’s hiking and biking paths are perfect for exploring this beautiful region.

Providence. Rhode Island’s beautiful capital features can’t-miss attractions like WaterFire Providence, where one hundred bonfires blaze majestically on downtown rivers, and Roger Williams Park Zoo and Carousel Village, home to exotic species from across the globe.

Block Island. Take a short ferry ride to Block Island for natural beauty and small-town charm. Families can join the Block Island Glass Float Project, part art installation, part scavenger hunt, then check out 1661 Farms and Gardens, a small hobby farm with lemurs, kangaroos and more.

Warwick and West Bay. Warwick and West Bay feature incredible shopping and scenic beauty. At Goddard Memorial State Park, active families will find a golf course, horseback riding, game fields and more. Head to Oakland Beach to enjoy a public waterfront, fishing and swimming.

South County. Hit the beaches in South County for a sunsoaked afternoon of swimming, relaxation and fun. Adventureland in Narragansett features go-karts, batting cages and bumper boats. In Charlestown, The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a go-to for

adventurous shoppers. Newport County. At Historic Newport, tour the Newport Mansions and lighthouses and watch centuries of history unfold, then visit Rail Explorers for a scenic ride on a custom-built rail bike. Visit Bristol County for stunning coastal views at Colt State Park and see wildlife at the Audubon Society of R.I. Nature Center and Aquarium. Find more ideas for your family summer vacation today at VisitRhodeIsland.com.

Rochester

As the third largest metro area in NY and just under 6 hours by car from NYC, Rochester is an ideal destination for families. Rochester is one of the most family-friendly cities in the country, with more than 75 experiences for families.

Kids of all ages love The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. The Strong Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to play, and is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame, the Toy Industry Hall of Fame, and the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

There’s also the Rochester Museum and Science Center, which features a planetarium and nature center, and the oldest photography museum in the world, the George Eastman Museum.

Plus, your family can visit the largest living history museum in New York at the Genesee Country Village and Museum, which depicts a 19th century village brought to life.

At Rochester’s Seneca Park Zoo, you’ll see Red Pandas, Masai Giraffes and Zebras!

With more than 12,000 acres of parkland, 100+ miles of trails,

and extensive waterways, Rochester is a great destination for active families who enjoy hiking, biking, fishing and more.

Rockland County

Rockland County is a hidden New York gem that’s only 30 miles north of New York City. Offering stunning views of the Hudson River as well as access to quaint villages, outdoor activities, a bustling craft food and beverage scene, rich history, and non-stop shopping and entertainment, there’s something for everyone in Rockland County.

Start your day by walking or biking across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. With access and parking points in Nyack and Westchester, you and your family can enjoy six scenic overlook points, public art across the path and historic touchpoints. At 3.6 miles and the longest biking and pedestrian path in the county, the path is also a great way to get in some exercise. For a connection to nature, enjoy access to over 200 miles of trails and parks. Great for hiking, exploring, and swimming as well as boating, kayaking, watersports, and fishing in Nyack, Piermont, Haverstraw, or Stony Point.

Take in a game and enjoy some baseball fare by watching the New York Boulders, a professional minor league baseball team with a stadium right in Rockland. Add some history to your trip by checking out the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site. This is the location of the last major Revolutionary War battle in the north with a museum, interactive programs, reenactments of battles, cannon musket firing, and more.

This is also the location of the Stony Point Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the Hudson River. For some indoor fun, visit Palisades Center and enjoy tons of activities and entertainment, such as Space Adventure Glow in the Dark Mini Golf, Palisades Climb Adventure, Au-

tobahn Raceway, 5 Wits Escape Room, the Palisades Climb Adventure Ropes Course, ice skating, movie theater, bowling at Lucky Strike, and tons more.

Make sure to include walking through one of Rockland's many waterfront villages as a part of your trip as you check out a waterfront restaurant, breweries, boutiques, and Torne Valley Vineyards, Rockland’s only winery. Located in the Ramapo Mountains, this quaint winery offers tastings, live music and Friday night concerts in the summer. Complete your stay with a great night of sleep at one of the area’s sweet bed and breakfasts, hotel, or local inn. explorerocklandny.com

Showboat Resort, Atlantic City

Take a splash this summer at Showboat Resort, Atlantic City, home to the world’s largest beachfront indoor waterpark with 12+ slides, a 1,000 square-foot surf simulator, nightlife entertainment for adults, a retractable roof for year-round fun and much more.

The famed Atlantic City boardwalk will enter a new era this summer with the early summer debut of The Showboat Resort, an expansion and re-imagining of the existing Showboat– and your family is invited! “There is nothing I love more as a grandfather than watching my grandkids play and have fun. That’s really the inspiration behind the mindblowing experience that Showboat Resort brings to the boardwalk,” said Bart Blatstein, Tower Investments CEO and Showboat owner.

There are adult and kid areas, making it easy for both parents and children to have fun this summer. Plus, a fan favorite among all ages, Showboat Resort includes Lucky Snake Arcade–the largest arcade in the world. The more than 200,000 square-foot venue features the 40,000 square-foot Raceway Go Kart Track and more than 600 games, including pinball, virtual reality, and bowling. There will be even more activities this year, like discothemed roller blading, a state-of-the-art, classic movie-themed miniature

golf course, a 40-foot-tall climbing wall, and the largest Zoltar fortune teller in the world.

Want to stay after a long day at the resort? Not to worry– the transformation into The Showboat Resort will also mark the completion of the iconic Showboat’s first phase of hotel renovations, including 477 guest rooms, among which are 36 Balcony Suites.

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Sweet Summertime in Westchester County

As summer vacation begins, travelers will be ecstatic to find there is so much to see and do in Westchester County. Bordered by the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester has more than 500 square miles of space, ensuring families can maximize their time and budgets while making memories that are priceless.

Families looking for epic play will find it in abundance at Rye’s very own amusement park, Playland, featuring exciting rides like the iconic Dragon Coaster and 108-year-old Grand Carousel. For more adrenaline, Boundless Adventures in Purchase is where adults and kids can crawl, swing and climb over obstacles at this aerial adventure park. Other fun attractions to consider include a visit to Legoland, Westchester Children’s Museum, and Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts for incredible outdoor performances and picnics.

Boasting 24,000 acres of parkland spread over more than 25 parks, Westchester is the perfect place for fresh air beyond the city. Visit Lasdon Park with its Dinosaur Garden and Chinese Friendship Pavilion. Croton Point Park offers expansive parkland and outdoor swimming in the summer, and Muscoot Farm’s Sunday Farmer’s Market is always a family favorite.

Eating is one of the wonders of Westchester County with an

Smugglers' Notch, Vermont

Those looking for more than a day trip the mountains of Vermont may be the adventure you need. Smugglers' Notch, Vermont is worth the drive, with plenty of scenic spots to stop along the way.

Spend a few days in the mountains biking, swimming and zipping through the trees. There are mountain waterslides, pools and reservoirs, and even the Kids Day Camp which has mountain biking, arts & crafts, STEM, wildness & survival, or high adventure.

Let your kiddos enjoy a day at one of the specialty camps while you relax or go on an outdoor date.

Families enjoy taking a turn through the treetop obstacle course or two worldrenowned Disc Golf courses, and kids love the FunZone, which has indoor climbing, inflatables laser tag, arcades and more.

You don’t want to miss family fun in Smugglers' Notch! Mountainside lodging packages with all the resort amenities fill up quickly for summer fun so plan your vacation at www.smuggs.com.

abundance of dining options. For breakfast, fuel up near the Long Island Sound shore at Stanz Café in Larchmont. Lunch at Walter’s Hot Dogs is another can’t-miss experience, and dinner at River Outpost Brewing will have the perfect something for both kids and adults. For dessert, the Bigfoot Creamery in Ossining offers tasty flavors and unique floats.

When the time comes for rest, Westchester offers a variety of hotels, allowing families to choose accommodations based on budget and proximity to their plans. Parents will find all the tools they need to plan the perfect itinerary by visiting www.visitwestchesterny.com.

family fun

IS ALL AROUND

CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS

the perfect weekend away

Fly, drive or take the train to Central MA this summer for a weekend away your whole family will enjoy. The City of Worcester has lots of family-friendly experiences, plus great local dining. Explore the surrounding towns to discover a zoo, botanic garden, living history museum, farms and excellent hiking trails. For upcoming events, visitor tips, & so much more, consider us your local guide to the heart of Massachusetts.

DISCOVERCENTRALMA.ORG start planning at on social media and on our app

Pow! Wow! Worcester Murals

Brookfield Orchards

Ecotarium

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

APEX

Worcester Art Museum

WooSox at Polar Park

Old Sturbridge Village

Brush it Off Southwick’s Zoo

The Hanover Theatre

Wild West City

Wild West City is a western theme park located in the beautiful, scenic Skyland’s Region of Sussex County, New Jersey. Your family will love this unique 1880’s theme park, a place where guests can step back in time, disconnect from the modern world and reawaken the spirit of the American West. Live action shows and reenactments of the west are performed on the ‘Main Street’ in town throughout the day.

There are plenty of things for families to see and do here, from popping into town shops and museums, to riding the Stage Coach through town, to boarding the Wild West City Train. Enjoy new and special events happening in 2023, like the latest Billy’s Great Escape production! And don’t miss out on Wild West City’s National Day of the Cowboy and Cowgirl, Civil War reenactments, and Native American events.

Wild West City is one of the most unique things to do in New Jersey, making it the perfect day trip for families, friends, couples and groups.

Purchase tickets in advance online, or consider a membership if you’ll be visiting often. Memberships include unlimited visits

Your Next Family-Fun Getaway...

is just 30 minutes away!

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the beauty of the Hudson Valley.

Rockland County offers a wealth of attractions and activities easily reached by car, train, or boat. With a mix of bustling towns, great outdoor adventure, creative culture and more, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

Summer Fun!

Our top picks for inspiring seasonal activities for the whole family

Summer is one of the best times to enjoy all that the East Coast offers, from hopping on the train for a day trip or packing up the car to check out a museum or an amusement park or eat some good food. Here are some unique things for families to do during the summer in and around New York:

American Dream

1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ

Visit the Great Indoors this Summer at American Dream – the weather’s always perfect here! Ride record-breaking coasters at the nation’s largest indoor theme park and ride the waves of the world’s largest indoor wave pool. Plus, you can shop hundreds of stores and dine at dozens of eateries.

Bronx Zoo

2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx

The summer isn’t complete without a trip

to the zoo, and lucky for us, we have the one of the best zoos in the country right here in NYC. With over 265 acres to explore and over 10,000 animals to visit, there’s always something new for your family to do at the Bronx Zoo. Go for a spin on the famous Bug Carousel, check out a sea lion or penguin feeding, pet the farmyard animals, get up close and personal with butterflies, and see animals from all over the world!

Chuck E Cheese

Families looking for a great deal this summer should check out the new Chuck E. Cheese Summer Fun Pass (chuckecheese.com/ summer-fun-pass) that starts at $59.99 and offers up to eight weeks of play time and up to 40% off pizza at fun centers across NY and NJ. Also, this summer select Chuck E. Cheese fun centers in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens/Long Island City

will debut Trampoline Zones for kids to enjoy active play.

Governors Island

Families can enjoy Governors Island’s 120plus acres of scenic open space daily. The island’s park offers rolling lawns and plenty of room to spread out for picnicking and recreation, including over seven miles of car-free bike paths. There’s always exciting events going on throughout the season; This year, warm-weather programming includes free arts, culture, live music, food trucks, educational programs and more. Get to the island by taking a relaxing ferry ride from Manhattan at 10 South St.

Harry Potter

935 Broadway, New York, NY 10010

You don’t have to jump on a plane for the Harry Potter experience; walk or hop over

to Broadway (at 23rd Street) and visit the 20,000-square-foot store. Yes, it is a store with fantastic merchandise, so bring pocket money if you can. Still, it is also a truly magical world with themed sections, interactive nooks, and immersive experiences where your little wizard can spend a large chunk of the day sipping on iconic Hogwarts drinks, casting spells, and reliving some of HP’s most astonishing scenes from all the movies and books.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum

110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT 06338

We are so lucky to have excellent museums in and near New York. Make a day or weekend summer trip when you head to the Pequot Museum, the largest Native American museum in the world. From Wednesday to Saturday, there will be culture-filled educational programs, workshops, and events for the entire family in July and August. Check the website for more info, and remember to take pics of the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.

Museum of Ice Cream

558 Broadway, New York, NY,

On a hot summer day, stop by the Museum of Ice Cream to cool off with unlimited ice cream in five different shapes and forms. With 12 multi-sensory installations, your family will learn all about the history of everyone’s favorite frozen sweet treat. Be sure to jump in the sprinkle pool (how fun does that sound?) and try your hand at making edible slime!

Smorgasburg

Fridays: The Oculus, Fulton+Church Saturdays: Marsha P. Johnson State Park, 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn Sundays: Breeze Hill, Brooklyn Summer, especially in New York City, is when we enjoy the outdoors while eating the most delicious food at Smorgusburg. If you need a reminder to make this street food meets Michelin-star cuisine part of your summer plan or try it for the first time, you’re in luck as it is in full swing from Friday thru Sunday at one of its 3 locations each of those days. We do admit it gets pretty crowded, so if you have the little ones in a stroller, go early so you navigate and hit up the food stands that you want to test the taste.

Storybook Land

6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ

Explore, play, read, and ride at Storybook Land! Visit this unique theme park where attractions, rides, and entertainment are based on popular children’s stories and fairy tales. It is all charm, and the kids will live out their favorite storybooks as they come to life in interactive play areas like the Three Little Pigs’ houses and the Old Woman in the Shoe. Kids will spend the day on themed rides like the Turtle Twirl and the Whirly-Bug.

Wildplay

2600 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh

We love family trips to the beach, but let’s be honest, the kids can only build so many sandcastles before declaring boredom. That’s why WildPlay offers unforgettable outdoor adventures! Soar over Jones Beach on a 700 foot zipline and experience the sand and sea like never before. Kids as young as 7 are welcome to ride! There’s also exciting adventure courses for all different levels, a primal swing and a freefall jump for kids 5 and up. Thrillseeking families with older kids even can go bungy jumping and axe throwing.

This summer at the Pequot Museum we will be offering a variety of culture-filled fun and educational programs, workshops and events for families and friends of all ages. Join us each Wednesday–Saturday in July and August for some of the best experiences that Mashantucket has to offer at the largest Native American museum in the world!

No matter where you go in Westchester County this summer, an experience is sure to follow.

Embark on an outdoor adventure, tour historic homes and gardens, grab a seat at a table to sample the best food and beverages our region has to offer—or simply relax and enjoy the show.

Go to VisitWestchesterNY.com to find more summer destination ideas and upcoming events.

Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts |

Photo by Gabe Palacio

THINGS TO DO IN JUNE

BY BARBARA RUSSO

Summer is arriving soon, and there are many local events for families and kids to enjoy! Here are some of this month’s most exciting events in Staten Island and nearby. Be sure to call ahead or visit event websites to confirm details. Go to siparent.com/events for info on the events listed here and even more stuff to do with your family throughout the month and all year long!

2023 Staten Island Mall

Carnival

June 1 - June 11; Monday-Friday, 5-11pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1211pm

Staten Island Mall

2655 Richmond Ave.

This annual family event features a variety of fun activities, including rides, games, carnival food and more.

Aladdin, Jr.

Saturday, June 3, 7pm and Sunday, June 4, 2-4pm Wagner College

One Campus Rd.

See the Actor Children’s Theatre program at Wagner College as they perform the Disney classic Aladdin, Jr.

Frederick Law Olmsted’s Green Neighbor Family Day

Saturday, June 3, 12-3pm

Olmsted-Beil House Park

4515 Hylan Blvd.

Join Friends of Olmsted-Beil House for a free afternoon of nature-inspired arts and crafts activities, storytelling, games and more.

Sunday, June 4, 9am Staten Island University Hospital Community Park

75 Richmond Terr.

Give summer back to kids with cancer in the community by joining Sunrise Day CampStaten Island at a walk and family carnival! Enjoy a funfilled morning with carnival games, face painting, music and special performances before walking around the bases at the park to raise money for Sunrise Day Camp, a free camp for kids with cancer and their siblings.

ShopRite Kids Cook

Sundays, June 4 and 18, 11am, 12, 2:30 and 3:30pm sessions. Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terr.

Head to this fun caregiver-andme program that introduces children to a diversity of foods, explains cooking concepts and helps build dexterity with cooking utensils.

Rainbow Jars: Pride Month

Wednesday, June 7, 4pm

Todt Hill - Westerleigh Library

2550 Victory Blvd.

Celebrate June being pride month by creating rainbow jars.

The library will provide supplies and materials.

Food Truck Festival at the Mount

Friday, June 9, 6-10pm; Saturday, June 10, 12-10pm; Sunday, June 11, 12-8pm

Catholic Charities Staten Island 6541 Hylan Blvd.

This huge family event features live music on stage, beer and sangria garden, rides for kids, and an amazing lineup of food trucks on the island.

Revolutionary War Living History Saturday

Sunrise WALKS - Staten Island

Celebrate Green Neighbor Family Day at Olmsted-Beil House Park on June 3.

Paula Tramontano

Saturday, June 10, 10am-4pm

Historic Richmond Town

441 Clarke Ave.

Step back in time to experience the American Revolution as it happened in Richmond County. Historians will be on site demonstrating military drills, weapons and historic skills. Hear stories about soldiers and civilians as you learn about life during the American Revolution in New York.

Teen DIY Thursday: Sharks!

Thursday, June 15, 3:30pm

Dongan Hills Library

1617 Richmond Rd.

Paint sharks at this event for tweens and teens. Participants will also learn facts about these majestic sea creatures.

Practice Reading with a Pooch

Saturday, June 17, 3-4pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

Bring your favorite book to the museum, where you can read stories to therapy dogs!

Cottage Row Curiosities

Saturday, June 17, 11am-4pm

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

1000 Richmond Terr.

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Shop this community artisan market featuring over 50 Staten Island vendors, plus enjoy music, entertainment, food, and more.

Father’s Day Walk

Sunday, June 18, 1-3pm Tenafly Nature Center

313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly NJ Celebrate dad by spending time outdoors together on this special day.

Juneteenth Celebration

Sunday, June 18, 11am-5pm

Historic Richmond Town

441 Clarke Ave.

Celebrate Juneteenth at this event that will feature special programs including demonstrations of hearth cooking, discussions of social history and historical reenactment.

State Fair Meadowlands

Thursday, June 22-Sunday, July 9, 6-11:30pm (July 4 weekend hours are 2pm-12am)

MetLife Stadium

1 MetLife Stadium Dr., East Rutherford NJ

Head to this exciting family fair in New Jersey to enjoy over 100 rides, free shows, 50 food options and more fun activities for all ages.

Anxious Parents, Anxious Kids: Parenting Advice From the "World's Worst Mom"

With author Lenore Skenazy

Tuesday, June 6, 2023, 4 p.m. ET

It’s time to change the way we look at obstacles and stop making assumptions that our kids are incapable of clearing their own path in life. Join author, columnist, blogger and reality TV show host Lenore Skenazy, aka “The World’s Worst Mom,” for a talk laced with humor, wit and the unvarnished truth: Your kids can be independent. Skenazy will share simple but powerful ways anxious parents can counteract the urge to overprotect their children, move away from fear-based parenting, and give their bubble-wrapped children the freedom to develop confidence and resilience the natural way: through unstructured, child-directed play.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Take a walk to help kids with cancer have a better summer at

SunriseWALKS- Staten Island on June 4.

Free and low-cost way to enjoy the season on Staten Island Summer Bucket List

BY JEANNINE CINTRON

It’s summer! If you’re saving your pennies for a big family trip or just trying not to overspend this year, the good news is that you can stay within your budget and still have fun! Check out our Summer Bucket list, chock full of free or inexpensive activities for families in Staten Island.

Hop aboard the Regal Summer Movie Express, where you can catch a kid-friendly movie for just two bucks.

Hike, bike or stroll the Greenbelt. Staten Island is home to nearly 3,000 acres of green space with trails winding around the entire island

Join in library programs. Staten Island library branches offer educational and fun programs for toddlers up to teens. Check our calendar for upcoming events.

Ride the Carousel for All Children at Willowbrook Park. A single ride ticket is just $3.

Grab your binoculars and go birding! Go to siparent.com to find out which birds to search for in NYC skies!

Join Urban Park Rangers Programs. The ranger-led programs teach kids to appreciate nature and wildlife and learn outdoor survival skills. They are free and offered through the Park’s Dept. in public green spaces throughout the city.

Learn all about local ecology from a nature center, most of which offer special programming for kids. In Staten Island, you can visit the Greenbelt Nature Center and the Blue Heron Nature Center. Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve also offers similar programming.

Explore Historic Richmond Town. This Mid Island living history museum takes visitors back to the colonial era, offering tours and programs throughout the year.

Ride the ferry. It’s the cheapest boat tour in New York (it’s free)! And a childhood rite of passage for native Staten Islanders.

Take photos at Snug Harbor. Spend a day enjoying the beauty of Snug Harbor’s picturesque botanical gardens and snap the perfect shot for your new profile pic. The grounds are free to enter; most gardens are free.

Visit the National Lighthouse Museum.

This North Shore, Staten Island, museum is located just a few steps from the free ferry and offers guided tours of lighthouses, ship graveyards and bird sanctuaries.

Cruise the FDR Boardwalk, where you can take your family for a beachside stroll or bike ride while taking in the magnificent views of Staten Island’s iconic Verrazano Bridge.

Go to the zoo. Spend an afternoon with sloths, Amur leopards and more at the Staten Island Zoo. Tickets are just $6 for kids.

Catch a Ferry Hawks game set against the spectacular NYC skyline for as little as $17 per ticket.

Go window shopping at Empire Outlets. Staten Island is home to NYC’s only outlet destination, and it’s located right on the waterfront. Window shopping is a lot more fun with a view.

Go camping. Urban Park Rangers hosts free family camping on various dates throughout the year via lottery. In Staten Island, they are usually held at Blue Heron Park. Get details at the NYC Parks Department website.

Swim for free! Go to siparent.com for a list of free public pools in Staten Island and beaches in Staten Island and nearby New Jersey.

See a movie under the stars. Bring a blanket and some popcorn and catch a free, family-friendly flick at a local park under the stars. Check our calendar at siparent.com for upcoming dates.

Splash around a sprinkler park. Cool off at one of the many sprinkler and spray shower parks on the island (see a list at siparent.com).

Rock out to the Rock-A-Silly Band with Mr. Patrick. Check his website for upcoming shows from Staten Island’s most popular children’s entertainer.

Go out to eat on Kids Eat Free night. Check out a list of local restaurants offering fun deals just for kids at siparent.com, Set up a picnic in the park. From Bloomingdale Park to Clove Lakes Park and everywhere in between, Staten Island offers no shortage of green spaces where your family can plop down a blanket and basket and enjoy a fun family picnic.

Go roller skating. Tickets to open skate

hours at Roller Jam are just $15.

Check out the Staten Island Museum. Learn all about NYC and Staten Island history at this local museum. Kids tickets are just $2.

Explore Fort Wadsworth. This 226-acre public park was once the longest continually operating military fort in the nation and today welcomes visitors to tour its underground tunnels, take a trip up the overlook tower, visit the historical Mont Sec History House and more.

Explore Sandy Ground. Did you know the oldest continuously inhabited free Black settlement in the United States is located in Rossville? Book a guided tour to learn more. Go fish! Although there are regulations, you’re allowed to fish at NYC parks!

AT JCC DAY CAMP FUN IS OUR TRADITION!

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LEARN MORE AT CAMP.SIJCC.ORG