Since 1876, Friends Academy has set the standard of academic excellence on Long Island. We are the the #1 ranked private school on Long Island and an independent, college-preparatory Quaker school, serving age 3 - Grade 12.
At Friends Academy creating a culture of begins in Early Childhood. Having your child begin their Friends Academy journey at this stage will give them the foundational skills to prepare them for the in the sequential divisions. Our Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Childhood program supports students’ curiosity and builds an exceptional academic foundation in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional learning in . Our Quaker values deepen this work and establishes essential academic and social building blocks.
Visit us at our Open House on Oct. 23!
& COLUMNS
FAMILY
New Beginnings
Hey there! I’m Jeannine Cintron, the new Editorial Director at New York Family, stepping in for Donna as she moves onto a wonderful new chapter in her life. While this marks the start of a new chapter for New York Family as well, I plan to continue providing your family with all the best events, activities, resources, tips and advice that parents need to raise happy and healthy children in Long Island as we always have.
A bit aout me: I’m a proud lifelong New Yorker! I’m also a perpetually overcaffeinated single mom to a 16-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl who keep my heart young and my hair grey. I also have three cats because cats make everything better (just ask any NYC bodega owner).
It seems fitting that my first issue in this new role is a Back-to-School one. A new school year is all about new beginnings and fresh starts, a chance to set new goals and work even harder toward old ones. While some kids look forward to this, picking out their first-day outfits a month ahead of time and daydreaming about seeing old friends again, others are a lot less enthusiastic. Easing Kids Into Back-to-School Mode (page 8) offers tips on everything from routines to building social connections.
When kids head back to school, they also go back to afterschool activities. Now is the time to sign your child up for sports, theater, STEM, dance, gymnastics, music and any other enrichment programs they might be interested in. In the Ultimate Guide to Afterschool Programs and Activities (page 16), we not only share the many benefits of these programs (page 18) but we also help you find the right one for your child (page 20).
If you’re sending your older child(ren) off to school but still aren’t sure if your littlest one is ready, check out the Top Preschools in Long Island (page 14) to see some great local options.
I always say summer’s end is bittersweet, since it marks the start of fall, the cinnamon spiciest season of them all. We’re sharing our favorite apple orchards (page 30) so that you can enjoy a fun family day at the farm, then get started transitioning to that fabulous autumn decor you’ve been itching to take out since July.
Wishing you all an exciting and successful school year!
Jeannine
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Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
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Easing Kids into Back-to-School Mode
By Rosdaly RamiRez
Do you remember what you felt leading up to the first day of school as a kid? I can recall the before-sleep thoughts, the morning excitement and worries that came with the idea of heading back to school. If you have little ones, their behaviors may look about the same: more tears than usual, some may find comfort in clingy to your leg, and others may have a sudden burst of joy. After working with children for many years and spending five of those years working with high school students, transitioning back to school for kids is a huge milestone. Transitions can bring up a lot of emotions and behaviors, and if you’re a parent, preparing your child for them sets them up for how these big milestones will impact them. Here are some key pieces of advice I have for parents as a social worker and parent of three kids:
Before School StartS :
Establish a Routine
Begin a consistent bedtime and morning routine a few weeks before school starts. This will allow your child to mentally and physically start adjusting from the summer routine
to the new school year. If you have little ones, pictures are a great way to help your child identify what their daily life will look like.
Familiarize with the School Environment
Visit the school together to explore the classroom, playground, and other key areas. This is very important for all kids; it builds up their imagination, which can lead to conversations with you. If you have a child with sensory disabilities that thrives off routine, it’s especially important for them. Attend any orientation sessions or meet-and-greet events with teachers. Your child’s teacher is another adult who will play a role in your child’s life. Safety is a big thing for kids, and getting the opportunity to know them can really set the tone for how they transition into the classroom.
Discuss School Positively
Talk about the exciting aspects of school, such as making new friends and learning new things. Ask questions. Dinner time is a great place to have these conversations. I always invite parents to share some first-day school stories.
For little ones, read books about starting school to build anticipation and reduce anxiety.
Practice Independence
Encourage self-help skills like dressing, using the bathroom, and opening lunch containers. Assign simple tasks at home to boost their confidence in handling responsibilities.
During the Transition: Stay Calm and Positive
Your attitude can significantly influence your child’s feelings. Stay positive and calm. Your attitude affects your children’s mornings, and it spills over to the rest of their day.
Just like it’s their first big day, it’s also yours. Have a check-in with yourself. Write down some worries you may have or emotions that are coming up for you. Be prepared to navigate different emotions that morning, so get rest and also have a routine for yourself.
Create a Goodbye Ritual
Develop a consistent, quick, and positive goodbye routine. You know your child best; what will comfort them as you say goodbye?
If you have little ones, I highly
recommend getting them a comfort item. Each year, I give my son a soft heart. He takes one to school, and I keep one with me. It comforts him to know we’re connected, though I’m not with him.
Encourage Social Connections:
Some kids thrive in seeking out relationships, while others may have anxiety even thinking about it. Making connections as kids get older can be hard, so encourage your kid from a lens of empathy and space.
After the pandemic, we’ve seen an increase in social anxiety, though as parents we want to encourage social connections. I would recommend that if you sense your child is feeling anxious, have a teacher, counselor, or social worker check in with them at school.
Addressing Emotional Needs:
Acknowledge Feelings
Listen to your child’s concerns and validate their feelings.
Provide comfort and understanding without dismissing their worries.
Promote Problem-Solving
Encourage your child to think of solutions to any challenges they face.
Role-play different scenarios they might encounter at school.
Stay Involved
Maintain regular communication with teachers and school staff. Your child’s teacher is on your team, So communicate changes in your child, things you’re noticing about them or when big changes are happening in your family. They all impact your child’s behavior in school. It also leaves an open door for teachers to do the same.
Participate in school activities and volunteer opportunities to stay connected with your child’s school experience. As your child gets older, this will be important. I know they may be in a stage where you’re “ embarrassing,” but showing up to activities they’re participating in builds your confidence and relationship with them.
After School StArtS
Establish a Post-School Routine:
Create a calming routine after school to help
your child unwind and share their day. The first hour back home should be a time when they get to choose what they want to do. It’s also an important time for you to disconnect from work and other responsibilities to make room for your child to connect with you.
Monitor Progress:
Keep an eye on your child’s academic and social progress.
Address any concerns promptly with teachers or school counselors/ social workers..
Celebrate Milestones:
Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements, both big and small.
Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement regularly.
I hope these tips will help you begin transitioning into the school year as you support your child for another exciting year this Fall. And remember, you’re learning just as much as they are about navigating parenthood. Have some grace with yourself.
6 Tips for Preparing HealTHy SCHool lunCHeS
By BarBara russo
Enjoying a healthy, delicious lunch is important at any age. While it can be challenging to come up with new lunch ideas for your kids, preparing healthy school lunches can be done with ease while providing tasty and nutritious menu options. There are so many things that are critical for a productive school day for your child—and having a good lunch is one of them. In fact, according to the Food Research & Action Center (frag.org), school meals play a critical role in student health, well being and academic success.
While school-provided meals are an option, you can also send your child to school with a power-packed lunch to help boost their learning and keep their energy up throughout the day. Preparing healthy school lunches can be fun, and it’s something you and your child can do together. Here are some tips you can keep in mind while creating your fabulous and healthy lunches:
Mix and match food options
According to the National Education Association, the important thing to remember when making lunches is to offer a wide variety of options to your child. Try different dips for different veggies, swap out the usual sandwich bread for a wrap, pita or whole grain bun.
Consider gut health
Maintaining a healthy microbiome can prevent or lessen the effects of gut-related issues like allergies, E. Coli infection, asthma, skin issues and other conditions, explained gastroenterologist, Rajesh Dhirmalani, D.O.
“A healthy diet, hydration and building good bacteria in the gut through supplements and probiotics like Flore
Clinical play a crucial role in kids’ gut health,” the doctor said.
Include these foods:
Think high-fiber fruits and vegetables when preparing healthy school lunches. Keep the skin on to help aid digestion and promote good bacteria. Apples, raspberries, broccoli, and snap peas are easy additions to make your child’s lunch healthier.
“Berries and tomatoes are high in antioxidants, and oats, beans and chickpeas are good sources of proteins, vitamins, and minerals,” Dhirmalani said. “Avoiding processed and artificially or overly sweetened foods is also essential, as they contribute to the overgrowth of bad bacteria in the gut.”
Try bento boxes
They’re very practical for preparing healthy school lunches. Bonnie Lak, a mom from New Jersey, has a teen who loves using the Takenaka bento box.
“Alexandria likes to eat healthy, so she likes to pack it with little cucumbers, fresh fruit, tomatoes, strawberries and blueberries,” Lak said.
Pick good protein
On the subject of protein when preparing healthy school lunches, Dhirmalani recommends reducing red meats to once a week or less.
“Fresh vegetables and healthy fiber like beans, lentils and chickpeas should be included as often as possible,” he said. “Adding fresh herbs and spices is a quick addition and has a long list of health benefits.”
Consider dental health
Joe Albanese, DMD, of Marine Dental Services, recommends steering clear of any hard-to-swallow gummy candies or overloading on dried fruit, which can get stuck in teeth.
“Although dried fruit is a healthier alternative to candy, it still contains a lot of sugar and can cause cavities if the teeth are not properly brushed and flossed after eating it,” he said, adding that calcium-rich foods like cheese and yogurt are great for strong teeth.
Fun fact: Strawberries contain malic acid which helps keep the teeth stain-free and white. Who says all sweets are bad for your teeth?
LONG ISLAND SPEECH
Education Skills To Develop Before Starting Preschool
By Emily lE vy
With summer winding down and fall up at bat, the reality that your child will be starting preschool may be sinking in. Much of preschool involves play and loads of fun, but arming your child with early academic foundations—in an engaging and enjoyable manner—can help set them up for preschool success. Try some of the ideas below.
Sorting Objects
Sorting objects is an important skill that will be tackled in preschool, so prepare your child with some sorting activities that you can practice at home. Purchase a bag of multicolored buttons, pom poms, or paper clips, and set out a six-cup muffin tray. Explain to your child that together you will practice putting all of the same color object into a single muffin cup. Make sure you model a few first. You should start by putting all the yellow buttons in one cup, blue ones in another, green in a third, and so forth. Then have them practice sorting on their own and praise them when they have successfully sorted all of the objects. Of course, as a bonus, this activity will reinforce color recognition.
Counting and Number Recognition
Counting and number recognition are also important early-learning skills. Strengthen these skills by integrating counting exercises into everyday life. For instance, if you are at the supermarket, ask your child to count the number of apples or oranges as you put them into a plastic bag. When you remove items from your shopping cart and load them onto the checkout belt, have your child count each one to work on one-to-one correspondence. Have them count the number of clothing items you put in the washing machine, papers you need to complete for work, keys you have on your key ring, and so on. To add some number recognition practice, try playing a “game” where you label individual cups 1-10, with one number on each cup. Ask your child
to go around your house and find one item to put in the “1” cup, two items to put in the “2” cup, and so on. The more fun and engaging you can make these activities, the better!
Letter Recognition
While your child will likely learn more about letters once the school year begins, you can give them a prelude with some fun letter recognition games. Purchase a bag of plastic or foam letters and put them in a bowl. Write out the alphabet on a sheet of construction paper, then point to a letter and ask your child to “scoop up” that letter using a ladle or spoon. You can also try using chocolates for another fun letter game. To play this game, write two sets of single letters on small white stickers (two A’s, two B’s, etc), then attach them to the bottom of Hershey Kisses or other chocolates. Together, you can play a game of Memory. First you flip over one chocolate and identify the letter, then flip over another chocolate and try to find the letter match. Your child goes next, then you, and so on. The first player to find the most letter matches wins!
Problem-solving
Problem-solving is a skill that will continue to play a role throughout your child’s academic career, so it’s helpful to start building this skill at a young age with some fun activities. Try playing “Guess the Item”
with your child, where you give them a set of clues and they need to try to identify the object. For instance, you might say, “I’m thinking of something that’s furry and has four legs and a tail,” and ask them to guess the object (dog) or “I’m thinking of something that’s long and thin, has an eraser at the top, and has a point at the end” and ask them to guess the object (pencil). If they struggle to guess the object, offer clues, like “you can write with it or sharpen it” for a pencil, or “it often wags its tail or drinks water out of a bowl” for dog.
Following Directions
Your child will need to follow a lot of directions once they start preschool so try some exercises at home to improve this skill. You can play the traditional “Red Light, Green Light” game with them, but with an added twist. Like the classic game, green means go and red means stop, but try throwing in some additional colors for added following directions practice. You may say that blue means bark like a dog, white means scratch his head, and pink means hop on one leg. Throwing in some of these other colors as directives will teach your child to listen carefully and follow the directions appropriately. Simon Says is another fun game you can play to build this skill. Your child must listen to the “commands” and follow the directions accordingly.
Long Island Preschools
Back to school is a busy time, but for parents also caring for very young children it can be even more hectic if they aren’t attending preschool. Enrolling young kids in preschool is highly beneficial for their early social, cognitive and emotional development in a multitude of ways, but it’s also a plus for busy parents who work or need more time in the day to check off the endless items in their to-do lists. It’s a win/win all around, especially since it will prepare them for “big kid school” when the time comes.
If you are thinking of signing your little one up for early educational adventures, consider the excellent preschool programs below.
A Work of Heart
3 Greenhills Rd, Huntington Station 631-673-7373
workofheartchildcare.com
missandrea@workofheartchildcare.com
A Work of Heart is a dedicated childcare provider in Huntington offering a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment for children. With over 20 years of experience, A Work of Heart is committed to fostering the growth and well-being of each child through compassionate care and a curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and cognitive development. Recently expanded space has created an environment where children thrive and parents can work with peace of mind. A Work of Heart offers preschool, summer camp, and full-time childcare, for children from infancy through early childhood. Their programs immerse children with learning opportunities in literacy, science, math,
music, movement, and culture. Children emerge with a confidence that comes from being in an afirming and respectful atmosphere.
Buckley Country Day School
2 I. U. Willets Road, Roslyn 516-627-1910
buckleycountryday.com
cfortuna@buckleycountryday.com
Buckley Country Day School is an inclusive, diverse environment that nurtures the whole child and lays the foundation for success in high school, college, and beyond. Buckley accepts students as young as two years old in the Pre-Nursery program and admits students on a rolling basis through grade seven. The school’s mission, Opening The Eyes And Awakening The Mind, is at the heart of its curriculum, which seeks to inspire and prepare students for a lifetime of discovery in a caring, positive environment. Buckley sets itself apart from other independent schools by fostering a deep appreciation of learning, and developing students who are committed to making the world a better place through thoughtful inquiry, critical thinking, and community engagement.
Countryside Montessori School
354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck 516-466-8422
info@cmsgn.com
Countryside Montessori School believes in creating a peaceful atmosphere where respect toward each other, community and the environment are an everyday occurrence. The school offers children, 18 months to 6 years, a well-balanced and enriched curriculum which includes traditional subjects, art, and music. They are located on an estate-like setting with an outdoor playground and nature walks. Classrooms are fully equipped and spacious. The school has two Toddler classrooms and two Primary classrooms. Toddler class is for 18 months to 3 years old. Primary class is for 3 to 6 years old, and includes Nursery, Pre-K, and Kindergarten. The Primary class curriculum contemplates a three year cycle. There are after-school programs offered throughout the school year. Proudly serving Great Neck, Manhasset, NY, and the surrounding community.
Friends Academy
270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-676-0393
friendsacademy.org
admissions@fa.org
Since 1876 Friends Academy has set the standard of academic excellence on Long Island. Friends is an exceptional K-12 (Nursery-12th grade) coeducational school that combines outstanding academics and timeless Quaker values. They prepare students for college and a life of purpose. Friends Academy is ranked the #1 K-12 private school and the #1 College Prep private HS in Nassau County for 4 years in a row. Visit Friends by RSVPing for a Fall Open House or calling for a private tour. Get to know their dynamic academic curriculum, meet their teachers and students and explore their beautiful 65 acre campus.
The Green Vale School is Long Island’s preeminent private school for Pre-Nursery through 8th Grade. Green Vale’s Early Childhood program creates a kind and cozy environment where great emphasis is placed
on developing the whole child during their formative years. Along with a vibrant and varied academic curriculum, young learners are exposed to a rich breadth of specials, including ample outdoor recess, technology, science, Spanish, movement, music, art, physical education, and more. The 40-acre campus becomes their learning playground.
Long Island School for the Gifted
165 Pidgeon Hill Rd, South Huntington 631-423-3557
lisg.org
admissions@lisg.org
Is your child intellectual, artistic, creative, and inquisitive? Do they often feel bored at school, despite their passion for specific topics? Perhaps they need like-minded peers, acceleration, and opportunities matching their extraordinary task time. Does your child have a keen sense of justice and recall facts with unusual accuracy? If so, your child might be gifted. Discover a school that nurtures their unique abilities and helps them thrive. For over 40 years, The Long Island School For The Gifted has provided an accelerated expe -
rience for gifted children in pre-kindergarten through ninth grade, in a nurturing environment where they will be both intellectually challenged and comfortable socially. LISG helps gifted students develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed for life.
Por tledge School
355 Duck Pond Road Locust Valley 516-750-3202
portledge.org/ admissions@portledge.org
Portledge School is where academic excellence and emotional intelligence meet to inspire next-generation thinkers with the confidence, skills, and values to achieve in an ever-changing world. The Early Childhood program focuses on curiosity and discovery, where the smallest learners ask big questions as they begin building a foundation of genuine academic curiosity. They are an inclusive community where every student has a voice, adults model a love for learning, and education expands beyond academics, allowing each student to develop a sense of who they are and who they want to be.
Opening The Eyes And Awakening The Mind
The Many Benefits of Afterschool Programs
By Serena norr
According to the Afterschool Alliance, kids spend more than 1,200 hours in school every year. While that may seem like a substantial amount of time, school only accounts for 20% of a child’s time. This is why after-school programs and activities are a big part of our kids’ school experience. Programs and activities are essential in fostering social and emotional growth, just as important as academic reasons. For busy parents, particularly those juggling work commitments (#iykyk), these programs provide a space where children can thrive safely and productively, extending the learning and joy beyond the regular school hours.
Read on to discover more about why after-school programs are so beneficial to kids and their families.
Meet New Friends
After-school classes allow kids to connect and meet new people outside of school. Extracurricular activities help form a community and forge a sense of belonging as they hyper-focus on one activity. This can also benefit students who struggle with making friends in school, where they can connect with a different set of peers in smaller groups.
Encourages Physical Activity
After-school activities, like sports, encourage kids to participate in teamwork as well as offer physical activity, help with stress, may improve self-esteem, foster healthy habits, and may promote mental well-being. Kids who participate in sports may also forge longterm bonds that they participate in until the end of high school.
Expose Kids to New Programs
Many schools have limited programming within music and the arts. After-school programming allows kids to try these
programs and express themselves in a new way through acting, music, and/or learning a new artistic skill. They can also help unleash creativity, improve communication, boost confidence, and improve focus and concentration.
Programs are Fun
After-school activities are fun and offer a way for kids to do something exciting and engaging beyond their typical school day. This can be a release for students with a rigorous and intense course load and schedule.
Helps Support Working Parents
Here in New York, we have some of the best after-school programs in the country. Participating in an after-school program allows kids to thrive in a safe and supervised environment until a parent or guardian can pick them up.
Provides a Safe and Supportive Environment
After-school programs provide a safe space during times when some kids might be unsupervised. Under an instructor’s guidance, kids develop new skills and learn from a mentor/teacher who can help kids foster new passions/interests. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, “regular participation in an after-school program may also reduce risky behaviors and help kids gain college and career-needed skills.”
Academic Benefits
A supportive after-school program provides a well-rounded educational experience that can impact other aspects of school, such as improved concentration, reduced behavioral problems, and fostering new passions, helping lift kids’ moods and well-being.
Finding an Afterschool Activity for Your Child
By Stacey eBert
As a kid, I loved after-school extracurricular classes. Whether summer camp, gymnastics, or high school clubs –regardless of the time of year- I embraced the energy that came with all activities. As a young adult, I led youth groups, ran after-school classes at the local community center, and taught many kids to swim. I felt lucky to have teachers and counselors who chose to share their time, energy, expertise, and talents.
As the kids return to school, it’s time to ensure those young minds have extracurricular classes, activities, or sports to engage, foster, and energize their spirits. Parents should know something exists for all kids – it might take time, effort, trial and error, thinking outside the box, recruiting experts, and listening to your child’s voice. It might mean investments in energy, money, community, and heart. However long it takes to find the thing that lights them up – it’s worth it.
Here are four tips to help find an engaging extracurricular class or activity for your child.
Listen actively to the kind of activity , class your child needs Kids have a way of sharing their thoughts. Young children might not have the words yet, but they know how they feel. Those with the words might not have the meaning flushed out, and some kids may be shy and might need coaxing to try something new. Listen to what seems to interest them and provide options, give them the tools to research, keep an open line of communication, remind them they’ve got a support system, encourage giving it a try, and help them see that the nervous excitement of expanding that comfort zone is worth both the risk and joy.
Know what sorts of classes, sports your child gravitates towards There is something for everyone in New
York – offering many enriching activities encompassing diverse arts, including painting, sculpting, dancing, drawing, poetry, writing, music, theater, and more. Engaging in the arts fosters talent and expands your child’s understanding of the world, nurturing a heightened sense of selfawareness. For those passionate about sports, tailor-made winter classes are available after school or on weekends, providing the ideal outlet for children to expend their boundless energy.
Don’t overextend your child’s extracurricular schedule
Parent tip: If you’re overextended, your child is overscheduled, or your child (or you!) is about to experience sensory overload, then less is more. One meaningful activity is more than enough.
If one day a week or a few hours each is sufficient, it will work for your child and, most importantly, the family.
There is an activity, class, or sport out there for every child
In families with more than one kid, you may
run around and do different activities for your children, as only all of your kids will want to do the same sport or class.
So, lead them to what they will thrive in or take a mild interest and turn it into a fullon hobby.
For example, If your child has an ear for languages, steer them towards an international culture or language club. If they’re pulled towards teams, leadership, and exercise, see what types of sports or club teams are out there for them. If they crave connection and want to learn creative pursuits, consider opening their world towards what’s possible in arts, community service, or learning something new. They want to practice swimming midwinter, there’s a club for that. They want to learn chess and build their interpersonal skills simultaneously; there’s a class for that. They want to learn marketing, debate, and business skills – there’s an organization for that. They want to learn survival skills and embrace the goals of scouts and leadership; there’s a space for that.
Give them a safe, non-judgemental space to share their interests and thrive.
How Do I Know If My Kid Is Ready for Sports?
By Marina DunBar
One of the best things about the backto-school season is that it’s also the back-to-extracurricular activities season! That means arts, clubs, and athletics are in full swing to ease the pressure of academics. And with this year’s unforgettable Summer Olympics, there has no doubt been a surge in aspiring young athletes going for the gold.
But how do you know when your child is ready for a sport? And how do you know what sport is ready for them? We’ve assembled a guide to help parents understand what sports best fit their kid, so that your little future Olympian will remember to credit you for their early start.
Ages 2 to 5
Walking is the first real sport that babies learn. Once that fundamental skill is developed, the more complex motor functions start to kick in. Not only is a love of exploration and discovery cultivated during this time, but so is muscle memory, a critical part of all athletics. Kids at this age should be encouraged to participate in activities that help progress the development of this crucial function.
Sports that facilitate freedom in play but also incentivize children to learn repetitive movements are ideal for inspiring early athletes. Some examples of early childhood sports are:
• Racing, including simple obstacle courses and mazes
• Jumping rope
• Dancing
• Basic gymnastics
• Throwing and catching a ball
• Swimming
• Hopscotch
• Riding a bicycle or tricycle
These are all activities that help children understand (both in mind and body) that repeating a movement over and over again is how it becomes easier to perform. And while it’s too
Ages 6 to 10
Once the fundamentals of muscle memory are acquired, it’s time to focus on balance, hand-eye coordination, and attention span. Parents can begin introducing sports with easy rules and basic gameplay strategy. When a child learns how to follow instructions, it’s a sign they’re ready for more complicated and collaborative sports such as:
• Baseball, softball
• Soccer
• Dance teams
• Martial arts
• Lap Swimming
• Roller skating and ice skating
These are all sports that build upon the foundation that is learned during the earlier childhood activities. Pay close attention to what sort of environment your child likes to be (Indoors or outdoors? In water or on grass?) and help them push themselves to learn that environment even more.
Ages 7-10 and Up
It’s junior sports league time! This is around the age your child will develop a stronger sense of teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. Of course, this also means a stronger drive towards competition. Cultivating a healthy sense of competitiveness is important in children of this age group, but it can be a tricky balancing act. You want your kid to want to win, but you also want them to be able to lose graciously.
A helpful way to encourage healthy
competition is to avoid always framing the conversation around winning and losing. Instead, remind your child that they’re playing because it’s fun and it’s healthy, and it’s still both of those things regardless of which side gets more points. Here are some friendly competitive sports:
• Football
• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Tennis
• Hockey
• Soccer
• Golf
• Competitive Swimming
If your child still insists that winning is everything, remind them that every athlete who loves their sport deserves to win sometimes, and that means that you have to lose sometimes. After all, it’s not really a competition if you win every time, is it?
The Right Fit
With so many sports to choose from, it can seem overwhelming to try picking the best fit for your child. But that’s why it’s so important to pay attention during those early motor skill stages. Understanding the environment your child prefers as well as where their natural talents lie will give you a great idea of what activities they will enjoy and thrive in.
Do they constantly try balancing on the edge of the sidewalk? Try gymnastics and the balance beam. Do they like to make-believe they’re a superhero? Try martial arts. Do they love dancing around the living room with you? Encourage them to memorize a routine. The more they try, the more they discover what they love.
early for team sports, having your child practice these activities in groups can help them get comfortable learning alongside their peers.
Bounce! Family
Entertainment Center
330 Michael Drive, Syosset 516-762-1300
bouncesyosset.com
bouncepartiesli@gmail.com
School is back in session so join in the afterschool fun at Bounce! Family Entertainment Center. Bounce! is an indoor family entertainment center Located in Syosset, NY Offering the best birthday party/group packages and open play sessions on Long Island. With the trampolines, adventure zone, soft play arena, toddler town, ninja/ net course, laser tag, bumper cars, arcade and more, Bounce! Is the perfect hangout for after school activities!
British Swim School
Multiple locations: LA Fitness Lake Success, LA Fitness Garden City Park, 24 Hour Fitness Valley Stream 718-576-1870
The end of summer doesn’t mean an end to the need for water safety education. Pool season is year-round with British Swim School! They offer gentle, fun swim lessons in their heated indoor pools, with quality instruction in both small group classes and private sessions. All ages can join, from 3-month-old infants up to adults. You are never too old to start your own swim journey.
Dance
Workshop
16 Atlantic Avenue, Lynbrook 516-561-2343
Danceworkshopli.com dance@danceworkshopli.com
Nestled in the heart of Lynbrook Village, Dance Workshop is a communityfocused studio committed to dance education in a loving and safe environment. Dance Workshop offers Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Musical Theatre and Acro for ages 2+. They also offer a Pre-Professional Company
track for dancers interested in taking their technique to the next level. Trial classes may be scheduled with the studio at the start of the season. Dance with the Dance Workshop!
Fit Learning Online
PO Box 85 Locust Valley 516-642-6483
fitlearningonline.com admin@fitlearners.com
Based in New York, Fit Learning Online produces one year of gain in core math, reading, or logic skills in just 40 hours. By applying the science of learning to online instruction, staff creates a fast-paced, goaloriented tutoring experience for every learner: average, struggling, gifted, or learning disabled. They use ongoing measurement of learning to guide our instruction, and parents have continuous access to their child’s learning charts to ensure complete transparency of program effectiveness.
German Language School of Greater NY
Locations in Manhattan and Long Island (Garden City) 212-787-7543
german-american-school.org
kidslearngerman@aol.com
German-AmericanSchool Assn. has been teaching German for 122 years. They have two locations: one in Manhattan on the upper East Side, and one in Garden City. The school today reflects the ethnic diversity that is New York and teaches German as a foreign language. The bi-lingual once-a week after school program concludes with the NY State Regents Diploma. The staff are native German speakers. Enrollment is ongoing.
Music Institute of Long Island
90 Plandome Road, Manhasset 516-627-7052
milimusic.com
miligirls@gmail.com
Established in 1990, Music
Institute of Long Island (MILI) is a classical music school with exceptional instructors from the most prestigious United States and European conservatories. Long Island’s premier music academy is consistently voted #1. Instrumental programs starting at age 3 and up include violin, viola, cello, piano, flute, clarinet, saxophone & voice. Traditional, Suzuki, and ABRSM methods. Students participate in All-National, All-Eastern, All-State, youth orchestras, and score highly in NYSSMA and Royal Academy Music Festivals.
Port Jefferson: 5070 Nesconset Hwy, Port Jefferson Station
631-743-7001 oneriverschool.com
One River School has embarked on a mission to “transform art education”® in America. The company has developed a unique method for teaching art and digital design classes to people of all ages. One River’s students have more fun, learn faster and produce more compelling creative outcomes! Now enrolling for Fall 2024 classes at Long Island locations in Manhasset, Woodbury and Port Jefferson.
TGA of Northern Nassau County 516-202-0763 playtga.com/ northernnassaucounty Moronke@playtga.com
Looking to introduce your child or student to golf, tennis and pickleball? TGA of Northern Nassau County partners with schools, parks and recreations, and sports
facilities to make it easy, convenient and affordable for students to learn sports in a safe and noncompetitive environment. TGA’s after-school programs, multi-week clinics and holiday camps are ideal for beginners or experienced junior players. They blend skill development, academic learning, and life lessons for a healthy, fun educational experience.
Tippi Toes Dance Company
1936 Hempstead Tpke, #315, East Meadow 516-247-9136
tippitoesdance.com/location/ tippi-toes-nassau-county nassaucounty@tippitoesdance. com
Tippi Toes® offers the opportunity for children to dance directly in their preschools, daycares, elementary schools as well as community centers and other convenient locations. They take the chaos out of getting to dance class and offer
parents a convenient option for their children without the transportation hassles of many other activities.
YMCA of Long Island
Locations: Glen Cove, Great South Bay, Huntington, Patchogue 855.2YMCALI
Ymcali.org/childcare
Marybeth.coursen@ymcali.org
The YMCA of Long Island provides academic support and enrichment in a safe and structured environment for Kindergarten through 6th grade (check your local branch, ages vary by school district). Partnering with school districts in Nassau and Suffolk counties to support student learning, their experienced staff design engaging enrichment activities to support your child’s learning in all areas. They offer daily homework help, STEM activities, arts & crafts, nutrition education, youth movement, and more.
Afterschool Leaders
Ask any kid who their favorite teacher is, and it’s likely to be the one teaching their favorite subject (which explains why there are so many beloved gym teachers out there). So there’s a good possibility that the person leading the exciting activities your child attends after school - when the fun really happens - is someone they admire greatly and enjoy learning from. That’s why it’s so important that the staff at any afterschool programs your child enrolls in are trustworthy, knowledgeable and talented, like the professionals listed below who each serve as exemplary leaders in their respective fields. Read on to learn about the person who might be at the forefront of your child’s next afterschool adventure.
British Swim School
Phil Turner, Owner and Operator
Phil Turner has been an owner in the British Swim School system since 2018. Originally from California, Phil was a competitive swimmer and became a swim coach during his college years. He then worked for two decades in the world of corporate retail before returning to his passion full-time with British Swim. With 7 locations and 60+ employees, he is grateful to impact so many neighborhoods by ensuring Water Safety education happens in our communities!
Fit Learning Online
Kimberly Berens, Ph.D., Founder and CEO
Kimberly Berens, Ph.D. is the Founder of Fit Learning and CEO of Fit Learning Online. She is a leading expert in the science of learning applied to instructional design. Dr. Berens is a frequent invited speaker, podcast guest, and contributor to popular press publications. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book, Blind Spots: Why Students Fail and the Science That Can Save Them. Dr. Berens resides on the North Shore of Long Island.
German Language School of Greater NY (dba German-American School
Assn)
Ursula E. Beitter, Principal, Director.
Dr. Beitter received her PhD from NYU in German Language & Literature. She taught at the College level for 30 years and is Principal at German-American School Association’s after-school language program. Dr. Beitter transitioned the school from a monolingual (German) curriculum to its current bi-lingual (English/German) model, making the afterschool program attractive to everyone. Dr. Beitter expanded the school’s courses with AP preparatory for German.
Dance Workshop LI
Nanci & MaryAnn Grasso, Owners
MaryAnn Grasso founded Dance Workshop in 1979. Her daughter Nanci later joined her at the helm and in 2016 established Dance Workshop on the Upper East Side of NYC. MaryAnn and Nanci have devoted their lives to dance education, community and the development of children; raising dancers and sound human beings alike. Dance Workshop has seen thousands of dancers pass through the doors. They believe dance has the power to elevate and change lives!
Music Institute of Long Island
Carol & Geri Kushner - Directors of MILI for 35 years
The sisters are violinists, violists, chamber coaches and performers. They believe in instilling the love of music, fostering proficiency, success, confidence and believe all MILI students achieve success. Degrees BM, MM (+), K-12 certifications, attended Manhattan School of Music, Queens College and Stonybrook University. They have been adjunct professors at Syracuse University, Aaron Copland School of Music Pre-College and Five Towns Colleges, Stonybrook University, and have taught in L.I. public schools as well.
One River School of Art & Design
Matt Ross, Founder
and CEO
As the Founder and CEO of One River School of Art + Design, Matt Ross remains focused on his goal to Transform Art Education® in America. At the forefront of creative education, Mr. Ross has overseen the development of a purpose-built curriculum based on contemporary art. Previously, he was Founding CEO of School of Rock, where he helped to build the company into the world leader in music education. He has also held management positions in broadcasting, working for Clear Channel, CBS and Viacom. Mr. Ross supports arts-based non-profits and sits on the Board of Trustees for Art 21 and the Bergen Performing Arts Center.
TGA of Northern Nassau County
Moronke Oshin-Martin, Owner and Director
Dr. Moronke Oshin-Martin, owner of TGA of Northern Nassau County, combines her passion for sports with her experience as a former public relations executive and college professor. Her goal is to promote health and fitness while helping children develop social skills, focus, and discipline that enhance academic performance. She also aims to counteract kids’ obsession with social media by igniting a passion for sports and developing a love of the game while having fun.
Tippi Toes Dance Company
Christie Farrell, Sales Manager
Christie has a lifelong love of dance, with experience in competition dance and teaching Pre-K and dance for over 17 years. Most importantly, she inspired and directed her daughter’s dance journey. Leading Tippi Toes Dance is a natural fit for Christie as she continually spreads joy as she passionately serves the communities she serves. Christie’s vast experience and inviting personality are perfectly matched in every interaction she has with families, staff, and clients.
Back-to-School IN STYLE
Did someone say fit check?
1-yar-old Abel (middle) and 6-year-old Emilia (left), as well as 7-year-old Dylan (right), show off their first day of school finds from their latest Denny's haul. Get your back-to-school gear at Denny's in Plainview, Bellmore, East Northport, Hewlett or Manhasset!
Moms Kimberly (left) and Ioana (right) are equally stylish in their Mixology apparel, where designer pieces are expertly combined with affordable items for a highend look.
CREDITS:
Location: North Shore Day School northshoredayschool.com
Makeup: Kimberly Dawn Makeup Artistry kimberlydawnmakeup.com
Hair: Boulevard Hair Salon of Rosyln (styled by Michelle)
WHERE: Sacred Heart Church, 282 Long Beach Road, Island Park
AGES: All
WHAT: This annual festival features a midway with exciting carnival rides, homemade Italian specialties prepared by parishioners, carnival games, raffles, and fun!
WANT TO GO?: Free admission; ride tickets available for purchase. sacredheartislandpark.com
WHERE: Eisenhower Park, 1899 Park Blvd., East Meadow
AGES: All
WHAT: Enjoy thrilling rides, favorite games, and delicious fair foods!
WANT TO GO?: Free admission; ride tickets available for purchase. newtonshows. com
Long Island Woodworkers Show
WHEN: Sept. 7-8, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm.
WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City
AGES: All
WHAT: Peruse handcrafted furniture, wood turnings, and carvings along with live demonstrations, seminars, free handmade toys for the kids in the toy workshop, and more.
WANT TO GO?: Included with museum admission: $18; $16 ages 2-12 and seniors 62
FL!P Circus performs at South Shore Mall starting September 20
and older. (516) 572–4066, liwoodworkers.org
Happy Hummingbirds
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 7, 1 –2:30 pm
WHERE: Hempstead Lake State Park, 1000 Lake Drive West, West Hempstead
AGES: 6 and older
WHAT: Learn about the world of hummingbirds and go home with a hummingbird inspired craft.
WANT TO GO?: $4. parks. ny.gov
Long Island Water Lantern Festival
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 7, 4:30 – 8:30 pm
WHERE: Eisenhower Park – Field 2, 1899 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow
AGES: All
WHAT: This unforgettable evening will be filled with tasty food trucks, fun music, activities, and thousands of lanterns lighting up the night.
WANT TO GO?: $28.33.
waterlanternfestival.com
Long Island Fair
WHEN: Sept. 13-15, FridaySunday, 10 am – 5 pm
WHERE: Old Bethpage Restoration Village, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate Long Island’s agricultural heritage with contests, activities, educational opportunities, and live performances.
WANT TO GO?: $10 until Sept. 1; $20 after Sept. 1; $15 ages 5-12 and 60 and older; free for children younger than 5. lifair. org
Monarch Migration Workshop
WHEN: Friday, Sept. 13, 4 – 6 pm
WHERE: Planting Fields Foundation’s Education Center at the Historic Laundry Building, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay AGES: 4 – 10
WHAT: Make a butterfly-
themed craft, view and assist in the Monarch Butterflies release, search and observe butterflies throughout the park, and learn more about the lifecycle of butterflies.
WANT TO GO?: $25. (516) 922–8690, plantingfields.org
Hicks Fall Festival
WHEN: Sept. 14-Oct. 27, Daily, 10 am – 5 pm
WHERE: Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury AGES: All
WHAT: Meet and take pictures with Otto the Ghost, walk through an animated children’s Halloween story, take part in fun activities and enjoy delicious fall food favorites.
WANT TO GO?: Free admission; $8 hay maze only; Weekend and holidays payone-price wristband available for purchase. hicksnurseries. com
Sunday Science: Wind Engineering
WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 15, 10 –11:30 am
WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and LearningTanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center
AGES: All
WHAT: Drop off your child to learn about the physics of wind by engineering one device that will fight the wind and one device that will use the wind.
WANT TO GO?: $15. (516) 764–0045, cstl.org
Pride in Port
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 28, 11:30 am – 6 pm
WHERE: Main Street from Belleview Avenue to Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington
AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate Port Washington with a community parade, a homecoming football game and a Family Fun Day with games, rides, corn hole, dancing, a food truck court and more.
WANT TO GO?: Free admission. pwcoc.org
SUFFOLK
Bark in the Park
WHEN: Monday, Sept. 2, 1:35 pm
WHERE: Fairfield Properties Ballpark, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip
AGES: All
WHAT: Fans are invited to bring their dogs with them to the ballpark for a fun day out!
WANT TO GO?: $19-$21. liducks.com
Captree Dockside Family Festival
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 7, 10 am – 5 pm
WHERE: Captree State Park, 3500 E. Ocean Parkway, Babylon
AGES: All
WHAT: Go fishing from the Captree fleet, listen to live music, and enjoy pony rides, pirate shows, food vendors, and more!
WANT TO GO?: Free. parks. ny.gov
Moonlight 9/11 Memorial Service
WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 11, 7 pm
WHERE: The Common Ground at Rotary Park, Between Gillette and Candee Ave., Sayville
AGES: All
WHAT: Commemorate the tragic events of 9/11 at this ceremony that will include speakers, music, and a Candlelight Labyrinth Walk.
WANT TO GO?: Free. thecommonground.com
22nd
Annual Long Island Garlic Festival
WHEN: Sept. 14-15, Saturday and Sunday, 9 am – 6 pm.
WHERE: Waterdrinker North Fork, 4560 Sound Ave., Riverhead
AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate the harvest season by supporting local vendors, enjoying great garlic, going on a Garlic Scavenger Hunt, learning all about garlic on a Musical Hayride, and more.
WANT TO GO?: $20. waterdrinker.com
Family Fun Day at Woodside Nursery and Garden Center
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 14, 12 – 4 pm
WHERE: Woodside Nursery & Garden Center, 134 East Woodside Ave., Patchogue
AGES: All
WHAT: Enjoy a day filled with fun activities featuring inflatables, a dinosaur trail, goldmine, face painting, crafts, raffle auction, crafts and food.
WANT TO GO?: Free admission. eventbrite.com
Birds of Prey at the Walt Whitman Birthplace
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 14, 1 – 2 pm
WHERE: Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station
AGES: 7 and older
WHAT: Learn about Birds of Prey and meet owls, falcons, and hawks and find out about the adaptations that help these awesome birds survive.
WANT TO GO?: Free. (631) 427–3240, waltwhitman.org
Heritage Country Fair
WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 15, 12 – 4
pm
WHERE: The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E Main St., Smithtown
AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate American folk traditions, history, and Autumn with activities like historical reenactors, antique cars, petting zoo and pony rides, food trucks, and more.
WANT TO GO?: $7; free for children younger than 3. smithtownhistorical.org
WHERE: South Shore Mall, 1701 Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore AGES: All
WHAT: Witness an incredible and eclectic mix of international human performers featuring acrobatic feats, bodybending maneuvers, unicycling, and more.
WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $33.90. flipcircus.com
Lenny Bruno Farms’ Annual San Gennaro Feast
WHEN: Sept. 21-22, Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 6 pm
WHERE: Lenny Bruno Farms, 740 Wading River Road, Manorville AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate ItalianAmerican culture with delicious cuisine, engaging activities, jumbo garden games, pedal push tractors, adorable farm animals, photo opps, and more.
WANT TO GO?: $10. (631) 591–3592, lennybrunofarms.com
Draw Out! Community Arts Festival
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 21, 12 – 5 pm
WHERE: The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington AGES: All ages
WHAT: Enjoy a broad array of activities including watercolor painting, collage, and more.
WANT TO GO?: Free. (631) 380–3230, heckscher.org RAISING KIDS IS A COMEDY OF ERRORS.
APPLE PICKING on Long Island
Nothing tastes better than farm fresh produce any time of year. During the fall, apple picking is a great way to get your family outside together, support local businesses and promote a healthy lifestyle. Long Island has several farms to choose from when it comes to this beloved fall activity. Check out the list below to start planning your next outing!
Breeze Hill Farm
31215 County Road – Route 48, Peconic, NY (631) 876 – 5159
Located on the North Fork of Long Island in Peconic, Breeze Hill Farm features over 72 acres of sprawling apple orchards! Honey Crisp, Granny Smith and Fuji are only a few of the 26 varieties of apples offered here. After you’re done picking, you can enjoy some sweet treats from Breeze Hill’s farm stand, like apple cider donuts or freshly baked pies!
Wickham’s Fruit Farm
28700 Main Rd, Cutchogue, NY (631) 734 – 6441
Wickham’s Bicentennial Fruit Farm is a great place to take your family for apple picking June through October every Monday to Saturday! This farm is on a beautiful waterfront property in Cutchogue, NY. Wickham’s Fruit Farm also has gift boxes of fresh farm fresh apples, jam and honey that you can send to someone special.
Milk Pail U-Pick Farm
50 Horsemill Ln, Water Mill, NY (631) 537 – 2565
If you’re looking for a fun option near the Hamptons for apple picking, the Milk Pail U-Pick Farm is the perfect spot to check out! This farm grows dwarf apple trees, making picking easy for all ages. In addition to having apples during the fall, pumpkin, gourds and squash are also available for picking! Apple picking season is due to start on Aug. 31. drop in on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays.
Seven Ponds Orchard
65 7 Ponds Rd, Water Mill, NY (631) 726 – 8015
Seven Ponds Orchard in Water Mill is another great place to head to for u-pick apples, fresh baked goods and produce this fall! Seven Ponds Orchard offers a wide selection of apples to choose from. For more information on picking conditions as the season gets rolling, check the farm’s Facebook page for regular updates.
Lewin Farms
812 Sound Ave, Calverton, NY (631) 929 – 4327
You can pick apples and enjoy beautiful scenery when you stop by Lewin Farms in Calverton, NY! This family farm is now in its fourth generation. After you’re done picking apples, check out the annual Lewin Farms corn maze for some extra fun in September through late October! Apple picking opens late August through late October or into November, depending on the size of the crop.
Harbes Family Farm and Orchard
715 Sound Ave, Mattituck, NY 1224 NY-25, Jamesport, NY (631) 482 – 7641
Bring your family on over to Riverhead and enjoy all that Harbes Family Farm and Orchard have to offer this fall! Harbes Orchard offers over 27 different varieties of apples to choose from. In addition to apple
picking, you can also pick pumpkins, go on a hayride or navigate through a corn maze!
Hayden’s Peach Orchard
561 Hulse Landing Rd, Wading River, NY (631) 929 – 1115
Another great place for apple picking this fall is Hayden’s Peach Orchard! This farm is located on the picturesque North Shore of Long Island. To stay up to date on all things happening at the farm, I’d recommend following their Facebook page.
Hank’s Pumpkintown
240 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY (631) 726 – 4667
Hank’s Pumpkintown in Water Mill offers apple picking every Saturday and Sunday and school holidays! After you’re done gathering delicious apples, there’s so many other fun things for your little ones to do on the weekends, including duck races, a jump pad, a fifty foot tube slide, calf milking and so much more!
Woodside Orchards
Aquebogue, 729 Main Rd, Aquebogue, NY (631) 722 – 5770
Starting in late September through the end of October, apple picking is happening at Woodside Orchards! Woodside Orchards grows 28 varieties of apples throughout the season. You can find out more about these varieties on their website.
