Rockland/Bergen Parent - October 2024 by Schneps Media Digital Editions

STORIES & COLUMNS

FAMILY

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.

© Carol Cain/Brave World Media, The Strong National Museum of Play, Loyd C. Heath, Jerome Davis

Feeling Like Fall

If you subscribe to our newsletters, you’ve probably been seeing the same picture I’ve had next to my Editor’s Note for the last few years, of my kids and me standing in the schoolyard after my son’s elementary school graduation. Considering my son is graduating high school next year, I thought it might be time for an update. My babies were, well, babies in that old photo, after all. If you’ve ever tried to get a moody teenage boy to pose for a picture — any picture at all — you’ll know why the new image to the right is just of my 12-year-old daughter and me.

I know it’s terribly cliche, and I hated hearing it too, but the years really go by quickly. If you are about to start the application process for middle or high school, then you probably know what I mean. Check out our Guide to Picking a Middle or High School (page 12) to help you get started on what might be an emotional process.

Side note, if you’re NOT subscribed to our newsletters, what are you waiting for?? Go to newyorkfamily.com to sign up now for our weekly newsletters featuring upcoming events and activities, local news and school updates, parenting tips and resources, seasonal event roundups and so much more. Go sign up and come back, I’ll wait.

A historical race for U.S. presidency wraps up next month, and regardless of where your vote lands, it’s a good idea to talk to your children about this important election. In 5 Ways to Help Kids Understand Politics, we’re sharing ways to encourage them to become politically active.

Spooky season has finally arrived and for

all you Halloween Heads, we’re sharing our favorite Haunted Houses (page 16). We’ve included both scary and not-so-scary ones to explore with your brave little (and big) ones. And don’t forget to set a day aside for pumpkin picking; we are sharing some great farms nearby (page 18).

Lastly, our cover this month Page 40) is Brooklyn writer, mother, and community builder LaTonya Yvette who recently published a collection of essays. In it, LaTonya writes of home, both in Fort Greene and upstate at The Mae House, a 200-yearold house she fearlessly purchased on her own in 2021, lovingly restored, and opened up as a rest-as-residency space for BIPOC communities.

Jeannine

PUBLISHER: Clifford Luster

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Jeannine Cintron

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Erin Brof

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Stacie Goldberg

EDITOR-AT-LARGE: Donna Duarte-Ladd

EVENTS MANAGER: Shara Levine

SENIOR DIGITAL EDITOR: Thalia Fernandez

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Alexa Lutter

PARTNERSHIP MANAGERS:

Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Suzanne Cirigliano, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Nicole Miller, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli

MARKETING & STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Rosalia Bobé

MARKETING & EVENTS ASSISTANT: Ashley Rivera

SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT: Elana Cantor

MARKETING ASSISTANT: Lorens Morris

MEDIA SALES ASSISTANT: Anastasia Aktipis

ART DIRECTOR: Leah Mitch

WEB DEVELOPER: Sylvan Migdal

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Jana Beauchamp, Mia Salas

EDITORIAL INTERN: Avital Kessner

CONTACT INFORMATION

ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554

Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com

CIRCULATION: (718) 260-8336

Tina@NewYorkFamily.com

ADDRESS:

New York Family Media/Schneps Media 15 MetroTech Center, Seventh Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201

PRESIDENT: Victoria Schneps-Yunis

CEO: Joshua Schneps

COO: Clifford Luster

New York Family has been awarded the PMA Gold Award for for Overall Design and Bronze for Website General Excellence.

GET IN TOUCH

Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily

BELLE DA COSTA GREENE

A LIBRARIAN’S LEGACY

OCTOBER ��, �� THROUGH MAY �, ��

Belle da Costa Greene: A Librarian’s Legacy is made possible by lead support from Agnes Gund. Major support is provided by the Ford Foundation; Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin M. Rosen; Katharine J. Rayner; Denise Littleﬁeld Sobel; the Lucy Ricciardi Family Exhibition Fund; Desiree and Olivier Berggruen; Gregory Annenberg Weingarten, GRoW @ Annenberg; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Assistance is provided by the Franklin Jasper Walls Lecture Fund, the Friends of Princeton University Library, Elizabeth A.R. and Ralph S. Brown, Jr., and the Cowles Charitable Trust.

Clarence H. White (1871–1925), Belle da Costa Greene, 1911. Biblioteca Berenson, I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies.

5 Ways to Help Kids Understand PoLitiCS

By Marina DunBar

It’s never too early to start teaching kids about the world they live in, both locally and nationally. With the presidential election right around the corner and political discourse everywhere we look, now is a great time to not only speak to your kids about politics but encourage them to become active and engaged in politics on an individual scale. There’s no reason why children need to wait until they’re old enough to vote to have a voice. Here are five ways to encourage your kids to become politically active in age-appropriate ways.

Mini Elections

What better way to teach kids about democracy than to have them build one from scratch? Hosting mini elections at home or with friends can help children to understand the voting process as well as why and how democracy works the way it does. For young children, you can start with basic topics like voting for your favorite ice cream flavor so that kids get used to voting.

You can then start to introduce hypothetical situations and candidates to stimulate critical thinking. Maybe Candidate #1 wants to require all ice cream to have a cherry on top, but Candidate #2 wants to ban all sprinkles on ice cream. Who would you vote for and why?

Kid-Friendly Newspapers

Political awareness starts with a healthy media diet. Most of the sources that you as an adult read or watch the news might not always have child-friendly content, and the responsibility falls on you of when and how to discuss major events with your child. But there are several resources and news publications that are built specifically for kids who want to stay up to date with local or world politics and events.

These platforms are designed and written in a way to be accessible and safe for even young children. Some examples are:

• BBC Newsround

• Dogo News

• News-O-Matic

• Time for Kids

• CBC Kids News

Though all these news publications are demonstrated to be child-safe, it is always important to explore and familiarize yourself with a platform first and judge for yourself if the content is appropriate for your child.

Write Letters

Writing has always been great practice for kids (and adults) to organize their thoughts. Your kid may be familiar with writing a letter to Santa with a list of things they’d like to have, but what about writing letters to local

officials with a list of things they’d like to have done? Maybe they would like to see newer playground equipment in the park or more options for their school lunch?

Rather than just inquiring about it yourself, encouraging your child to write a letter explaining their opinions to the appropriate official is politics at the grassroot level.

Volunteer Work

Volunteering for causes or organizations that align with their values can help kids develop a deeper understanding of political issues and the impact they can have on society. These organizations do not necessarily have to be politically aligned, rather they demonstrate that caring about an issue means that you sometimes want to get involved directly with it.

For example, a child who wants to volunteer at an animal rescue will be taught about animal rights, and they’ll learn that a big way they can help animals is to support policies that help animals.

Student Councils

Just as school is meant to be practice for your future career, student elections are meant to introduce kids to political discourse and the system of democracy. Student councils, debate clubs, or community service organizations can provide a hands-on understanding of leadership, governance, and civic responsibility.

But even if your kid has no interest in running for office, encourage them to learn more about the students who are running. Maybe they even have questions they’d like to ask their potential elected officials. Knowing your options is the key to political awareness.

tech Is Your Child Using AI for Homework?

Navigating a new digital world

By Thalia Fernandez

It’s no secret that most kids dislike doing their nightly homework. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly everywhere and used in various tasks, it’s important for parents to understand how their children might be using these tools, especially for their education and homework. Here’s a guide to help parents navigate this new world cautiously and effectively.

Types of AI Tools

AI tools range from grammar and spell checkers to more advanced tools like essay generators, coding assistants, and problemsolving apps. It’s important for parents to familiarize themselves with these tools and understand what they do. For example, Grammarly is an AI-powered writing assistant that helps with grammar, punctuation, and style. This particular software has been around since 2009, and it’s generally used and acceptable for use by college and sometimes high school students for help with correcting essays and emails.

ChatGPT is a conversational AI that can answer questions, generate text, and assist with writing tasks. This software is much newer, only being around since 2022. Despite only existing for a couple of years, ChatGPT has become smarter and more powerful since its debut. That’s because this platform is an example of machine-learning, meaning it becomes more and more intelligent the more it is used.

Photomath is an app that uses AI to solve math problems and explain the steps, designed for use with a smartphone’s camera to scan and recognize math equations. There are many other examples, but these three are the most popular platforms in each category of AI tool. By understanding these tools and the tasks they perform, parents can better monitor their children’s use and guide them towards appropriate and constructive usage.

Artificial Intelligence is Everywhere

AI is becoming an ever-expanding part of life. Last year, BestColleges surveyed 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students on their usage and opinions on AI. The results show that 56% of college students have used AI on homework assignments or exams. This number is likely much higher than it was a year ago as the technology has become smarter and more prevalent in a short amount of time. Also keep in mind that this is a survey of college students, who are more likely to know how to properly access these platforms and use them for their purposes. But as the tech becomes more known and available, younger and younger students are accessing it.

In a study conducted through Scientific Reports, 74% of surveyed students from various countries said that they’d use ChatGPT for their homework. At the same time, 70% of educators believe that using AI in school assignments constitutes plagiarism. The research also showed that the AI was capable of generating essays at or above the grade level it was tasked to write.

Is Your Child is Using It?

So, if AI is everywhere and could someday be used by everyone, what should you do if your kid is using it? Is it even worth it to discourage usage if the tech is here to stay? The short answer is yes, but it’s a tricky balancing act. Firstly, you should familiarize yourself with the exact app or platform that your child

is using. For instance, using a tool to check grammar is different from having it write an entire essay in most cases. Regular supervision and discussions about how AI tools can also help ensure that they are used appropriately.

Secondly, familiarize yourself with the school and classroom’s policy on AI. Talk to teachers about what they may have already told their class regarding AI or ask them if they can incorporate a lecture on AI practices into a lesson plan.

Rather than immediately scolding your kid if you catch them with AI tools, instead reframe the conversation around what these tools really do and how they can either help or hold back educational progress. Encourage your child to share if and what they’ve learned and how they’ve used the tools to supplement their studies.

For example, using Photomath to help understand how or why an equation is solved in a certain way is actively educational, and can even be a useful tool for parents who want to help their kids with math homework. But simply using it to copy answers is detrimental to the learning process.

And remember that even if AI is becoming more intelligent, that doesn’t mean it will always be accurate. It’s important to always teach kids to double-check their answers and to verify information through multiple sources. AI can be helpful as an additional way to check your work, but it should never be your first or only source of information and problem-solving.

is now part of

Mommybites.com provides expertly curated resources for all parents in the New York area, including our most popular feature — our mom-generated nanny board — the best online source for parents to find vetted (by other parents), experienced nannies and childcare providers who want to work in New York City, Westchester, Long Island and Northern New Jersey. Visit Mommybites.com; we can’t wait to see you there!

Kindergarten Play Day

Saturday, October 19th, 10am to noon

Four and five year olds are invited to visit for a morning of storytelling, crafts, and play while parents learn about our progressive approach to education infused with the arts, nature, and imagination. Attendance is limited, please RSVP

BLUE ROCK SCHOOL

Independent K-8 School in West Nyack, NY www.bluerockschool.org

Your Guide to Picking a Middle or High School

BY JEANNINE CINTRON & MIA SALAS

As the parent of a child in high school and another in middle school, I can tell you these are some important years. Your babies have outgrown their baby faces; your children are entering adolescence and soon, adulthood. They have hopes and dreams, goals and talents, and very bright futures ahead. With your support and a good education, there is no limit to how high they can fly.

A good education starts with a good school, and here in New York, we have some of the best options in the country, maybe even the world. New York offers many new and established middle and high school options, reflecting the diversity of educational approaches. From public institutions to private academies, charter schools, and beyond, the array of choices can feel overwhelming. It’s not the worst problem to have, when you think about it.

Recognizing the importance of finding the perfect school for your tween or teen, we’ve compiled an updated guide to the different types of school options available to students in

New York. Our guide covers a broad spectrum of institutions, taking into account the changing academic and career landscape. Read on for tips and reasons to attend open houses for your child’s prospects along with some helpful websites and resources you will need as you begin the application process together.

Public Schools

New York schools place a strong emphasis on equipping students for future success. From middle to high school, the focus remains on obtaining diplomas, pursuing a technical or college education, and building fulfilling careers.

Public schools offer many extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer opportunities, allowing students to explore their interests and gain practical experience. The flexibility in scheduling encourages students to discover their passions. The commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every student can embrace their identity while benefiting from a supportive learning environment. Resources are in place to assist multilingual and special education learners,

guaranteeing that no child is left behind.

As students progress through high school, they learn time management, balance between interests and requirements, college and career planning, and valuable life skills.

Charter Schools

Charter schools provide free, publicly-funded education to all children while operating independently. Charter schools have the freedom to innovate, adapting to students’ needs and experimenting with different learning approaches. Extended school days and years are common, allowing for comprehensive education. These schools support special needs students and English language learners. Clear performance goals motivate charter schools to prepare students for college and careers through enhanced communication skills, effective time management, extracurricular engagement, and academic excellence. Many charter school buildings are brand new, with a more modern look than their public counterparts.

Private Schools

New York private schools provide middle and high schoolers with a wealth of options, from clubs and activities to meaningful projects. With spacious indoor and outdoor facilities, advanced technology resources, athletic teams, student publications, and summer programs, students have all they need to excel. The

emphasis on individuality and responsibility empowers students to pursue independent interests and leadership roles, both in and out of the classroom. Smaller class sizes foster deep connections between peers and teachers, ensuring personalized support.

Boarding Schools

For a more independent educational experience, consider New York boarding schools. These institutions attract students worldwide, immersing them in a diverse and enriching environment.

Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, studios, and science labs, prepares high schoolers for university-level coursework. Leadership opportunities and college counseling resources pave the way for higher education success. Dormitory life offers a taste of independence and the chance to form lasting peer connections.

Blue Rock School

110 Demarest Mill Rd, West Nyack, NY

845-535-3353

bluerockschool.org

Blue Rock School has been fostering confident critical thinkers for over 30 years. They offer an educational approach based on hands-on experiences and real world problem solving. In small dynamic class settings, their challenging academic curriculum is infused with the arts, nature and play from Kindergarten through Eighth grade. By nurturing children’s love of learning and encouraging deep thinking, Blue Rock School prepares them for a changing world.

Catholic Schools

Catholic high schools offer a nurturing environment rooted in religious values. Students gain a deeper understanding of self, God, and community. With impressive graduation rates, college acceptances, and successful career out-

comes, New York Catholic schools have a strong track record. Co-ed and single-sex options are available, each offering a unique atmosphere. Students aiming for Catholic high schools should prepare for the Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools (TACHS) exam.

Jewish Schools

Jewish middle and high schools blend education with traditional values, fostering a holistic learning experience. Through Torah study, observance of traditions, connection to Jewish history, appreciation for Israel, and engagement in social and political activism, students develop into thoughtful young adults. Jewish schools emphasize learning inside and outside the classroom, with clubs, religious observances, and field trips enhancing the educational journey. Co-ed and single-sex Jewish schools offer choices to suit each family’s preferences.

Reasons to Attend a Middle and High School Open House

Open houses are so important! Once you’ve settled on a type of school and narrowed it down to a few different prospects, find out when each school is holding their open house and plan to attend as many as you can with your child. Here’s why these events are essential.

Meet the Faculty : This is an opportunity for you and your child to meet their potential future teachers and principal. The principal, in particular, plays a major role in the school and consequently, in the lives of the students. It is very important that you feel comfortable with this person being at the forefront of your child’s education.

Be on the School’s Radar : Schools often take note of which students attend their open house events and that could be a factor in their decision to offer your child a spot. Always be sure to neatly write your child’s name on the attendance sheet so they know they were there.

Get a Feel for the Surroundings : Ever hear of good vibes? That’s exactly what you should feel for a prospective school. The atmosphere, the staff, the location, the students – all of it should just feel right. If it doesn’t, trust your gut and cross that school off your list.

Assess Your Commute : The open house is a good chance to do a practice run on the

commute. You can see how far the school is from your home, how long it takes to get there, and what the surrounding neighborhood is like. At the open house you will also learn which transportation options are available.

Learn About Programs Offered : This is often one of the most important deciding factors when selecting a school. At the open house, you will be given an in-depth look at the programs and courses offered at the school. You can ask questions, meet the teachers heading up each program and learn about your child’s academic options.

Voice Safety Concerns : Your child’s safety is crucial. At an open house, the school will address any questions or concerns you have about security measures, emergency procedures, possible crime statistics and more. This is your chance to express any health concerns you have as well, and to learn the school’s covid/sickness regulations and preventive measures.

Learn About the School Day : At the open house, you will find out what time school starts and ends, when your child will be eating lunch, what her daily schedule might look like, how the periods are structured and other information about the school day.

See Which Afterschool Activities and Clubs Are Available : Most schools offer af-

ter-school sports, academic clubs, and other programs your child might be interested in joining. A school that offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities might play a large role in his decision to apply.

Meet Current Students : One of the best ways to learn about a school is from the students themselves. At the open house, students are often on hand to help describe the programs in which they are involved and what student life is like at the school.

Learn About The Application And Selection Process : Some schools require tests or auditions, other schools screen applicants based on grades or other factors and some select students entirely at random. At the open house, you will learn what is required to apply to the school and estimate your child’s odds of receiving an offer. You can also ask questions or voice your concerns about the process to ensure you have all the information you need to help them apply for enrollment.

Learn the School’s Rules & Policies : Some schools don’t allow cell phones, other schools have strict dress codes. If there is a rule you think will become an issue for your child in the future, or adversely, something you’d like the school to be strict about, this is a good time to find out – and decide if that makes the school a quick check off your list or a reason to bump it up.

Surgeon General Shares New Warning: Parents Are Too Stressed Out!

By Thalia Fernandez

This just in: parents are STRESSED OUT. What a newsflash, right?

Well, according to the latest warning from the U.S. Surgeon General, the amount of pressure American parents are under is actually a cause for national concern, one that warrants immediate action.

Being a parent in 2024 comes with an entirely new set of challenges. Today, parents have to navigate the complexities of social media, their children’s loneliness, their own feelings of isolation, fears about sending children to school, and a lack of community support, not to mention the stressors all adults face with health, finances, and just surviving each day. The Surgeon General’s Advisory focuses on the challenges faced by parents and caregivers and how it can all affect their mental health.

When it comes to support, the advisory shared by Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy is broken down into the sections of support systems, which are summarized below.

What National, Territorial, State, Local, and Tribal Governments Can Do

The advisory recommends increased funding for programs supporting parents, caregivers, and families. It emphasizes policies that focus on childcare subsidies, universal preschool, and early childhood education programs. One of the most important points made is the need for a national paid family and medical leave program that offers families the time they need to care for family matters, which also falls into the point that’s made about addressing the financial barriers that many parents face. On a local level, governments are asked to create more communal spaces that offer a sense of community. These are spaces where parents can engage with one another, build their own support, and feel safe.

What Employers Can Do

Employers are being asked to support the well-being of parents and caregivers in the

workplace by offering paid leave, flexible work schedules, and access to childcare, as well as training managers on stress management and work-life balance. The advisory states that employers should provide access to comprehensive and affordable mental health care through health insurance plans and confidential counseling services.

What Communities, Community Organizations, and Schools Can Do Community care is vital for parents and families to thrive. There is a need for having open dialogues, providing resources, and fostering social connections to address parental stress. Community members and organizations are also significant supports in reducing stigma and helping parents and caregivers as they can provide families with resources and essential information. Another

important way communities can know what parents and caregivers need is by involving them in shaping community programs and implementing school-based support initiatives.

What Health and Social Service Systems and Professionals Can Do Health and social systems should prioritize mental health and preventive care for parents and caregivers, focusing on stress management, mental health education, and traumainformed care. The advisory suggests early screenings for mental health conditions and referrals to supportive resources while collaborating with community organizations to offer support.

What Researchers Can Do

This section emphasizes the need for research to understand, prevent, and improve mental health in parents and caregivers. It highlights essential methodologies, qualitative research, involving diverse populations, and developing effective strategies and interventions. It also stresses

research that will help in addressing barriers to mental health care access.

What Family and Friends Can Do Families and friends are our closest and most immediate community. The support they provide is just as important as any other system. The advisory suggests offering practical support to parents and caregivers to reduce the impact of stress. It encourages regular communication, engagement with empathy without judgment, and remaining vigilant about mental health challenges that the parents in our communities face. Sometimes, parents are just looking for someone to check in, and while these acts seem small, they make a huge difference.

What Parents and Caregivers Can Do

For parents and caregivers, self-care is essential. Parents should engage in stressreducing activities, set healthy boundaries, seek support from others, have access to comprehensive insurance, and educate themselves about mental health.

As the saying goes, mental health is mental wealth, and it’s not something to take lightly. For many, there is still a major stigma surrounding the topic of mental health and simply asking for help.

But, not being able to care for oneself and relieve daily stressors can hurt us in the long run. It’s proven that ongoing stress can impact our health and well-being. The

A mental health expert weighs in

We had the opportunity to speak to a mental health expert on the topic. We asked a few questions about these pressures and how parents can begin to ease some of these daily stressors today. Justin A. Di Lalla (he/him) is a social worker and HIV counselor at a hospital in the Bronx. Justin completed his graduate studies at Fordham University and strongly advocates for mental health accessibility, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice.

What are the common signs of parental stress, and how can one identify them early?

A vital tool to address the stress caused by parental challenges is the ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of said stress. The most common include increased irritability, fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, and diminished participation in social activities. For the more severe cases, parents may also exhibit signs of anxiety or depression, such as persistent worry or difficulty concentrating. Identifying these signs early involves identifying changes in one’s behavioral pattern, emotional state, and overall well-being. Early recognition and open communication about these stressors can help in seeking appropriate guidance and support.

How can parents set healthy boundaries to prevent burnout?

Parents can set healthy boundaries by clearly defining their limitations regarding time, energy, and commitments. Prioritizing self-care is a crucial component in allow-

ing parents to identify their limits and feel confident in expressing them. It’s important that parents surround themselves with a supportive community made of friends, family, and neighbors who are willing to provide assistance when and however possible. However, we know how difficult this can be for many parents who do not have a co-parent, supportive community, or knowledge on how to prioritize self-care. For this reason, change needs to happen at all levels of our society to make sure parents have the support and guidance that they need.

What are some effective coping strategies for managing stress while balancing work and family life?

Interestingly enough, setting healthy boundaries is, without a doubt, an effective coping strategy for managing stress as a parent. In many instances, coping strategies can be defined as emotion-focused, solution-focused, or some combination of both. Some emotion-focused coping strategies include taking a walk in a quiet area like a park, practicing mindfulness— which can include meditation—and participating in positive self-talk or affirmations. Solution-focused coping strategies include the healthy boundary setting we spoke about, creating to-do lists and delegating responsibilities, and, for those experiencing a more debilitating form of stress, seeking a therapist or counselor to assist in identifying and managing parent’s stress.

American Psychological Association states that “the long-term activation of the stress response system and the overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones that come with it can disrupt almost all of your body’s processes.”

The article continues, “This can put you at increased risk for a variety of physical and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, digestive issues, headaches, muscle tension and pain, heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep problems, weight gain, and memory and concentration impairment.” In short, while the stress parents feel has seemingly become normalized, parental stress is absolutely something that needs to be addressed.

The Surgeon General’s Advisory highlights the importance of health and social service systems in cultivating a culture where parents and caregivers can thrive. Do you agree with what is being asked of these systems, and would you suggest any additional support?

Yes, I agree with the Surgeon General’s assessment and recommendation. Unfortunately, the solutions we tend to provide community members with, including parents, are bandaid-type of solutions; they focus on the immediate problem and not the root cause. Health and social service systems need to be more integrated and person-centered. For too long, these systems have worked in silos, which tends to negatively impact those most marginalized in our communities. Hospital systems, community organizations, and governmental entities need to work together to establish an integrated and cohesive path for parents and non-parents to receive the support that they need while also dismantling any barriers that might get in the way.

Parents are experiencing incredible pressures, so much so that the U.S. Surgeon General had to issue an advisory. These pressures require and deserve a village. Understanding that this job can’t be done alone is the first step in some significant changes. There’s a glimmer of hope with VP Kamala Harris’ plan for a $6,000 child tax credit for families during the first year of a child’s life and VP candidate JD Vance also supporting expanding the child tax credit. It’s clear that our systems need some significant changes; until then, parents will continue doing this stressful job and making it look easy.

Haunted Houses

Scary and not-so-scary ones in NYC, NJ and Westchester

By New york Family

What is it about Halloween that makes scary stuff so much more fun? Most people don’t enjoy being frightened in their everyday lives, but when October rolls around all bets are off! From decorations to costumes to events, spooky season means the scarier the better. As your kids get older, you’ll start adding haunted houses to your Halloween to-do list. Depending on their age (and fear tolerance) you’ll have to choose between scary and not-so-scary. As always, in New York, we have lots of options! Here are some of our favorite spook-tacular haunted houses in and near our area.

NYC Blood Manor

359 Broadway, Tribeca

Recommended ages: 14 and older

Housed in what is said to be a truly haunted building in NYC, this haunted house has approximately 1,000 square feet of themed rooms, corridors, and a labyrinth of passageways to maximize fear.

A Haunting in Hollis

211-17 Hollis Ave., Queens Village

Recommended ages: 13 and older

Dare to enter this 3-story haunted house as goblins, ghouls, and zombies try to get you as you make your way through mazes and experimental labs. If you get too scared, just say the safe word: “peanut butter.” Guests can also use laser guns to fight back zombies (one laser gun per group of six).

Slaughtered at Kreischer Mansion

4500 Arthur Kill Rd., Staten Island Hours: Friday to Sunday from 7:00 pm to 12:00 am

Recommended ages: follow @thehauntatkreischermansion on Instagram for details

The name says it all on this one. Head to one of Staten Island’s most historic and spooky landmarks for extra scary Halloween thrills that will have you looking for the fastest way out.

Westchester

Scared by the Sound Haunted House

380 Downing Dr, Yorktown Heights, NY

Recommended ages: 14 and up

Scared by the Sound Haunted House is set to return in 2024 at the old Turco’s Market located at 380 Downing Drive. The event promises new heart-pounding scenes and scares, including experiences like Witches and Wolves, The Doctor Will See You Now, and Haunted Bayou.

Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Attractions

778 Broadway, Route 9W, Ulster Park, NY

Recommended ages: 13 and up

Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Attractions in Ulster Park offers a unique immersive experience with changing Halloween themes. The site features eerie landscapes and terrifying encounters with the infamous Headless Horseman, a Sleepy Hollow. Additionally, the site presents “Headless Horseman Escape Rooms,” a first for the Historic Hudson Valley. It has been consistently named in the Top Ten Haunted Attractions and has been featured on TV shows and national magazines.

New Jersey

Pure Terror Scream Park

1010 NY-17M, Monroe, NJ

Recommended ages: Best for teens and adults; supervision required for children younger than 8 For Halloween freaks who can’t get enough, Pure Terror Scream Park offers 13 haunted houses for the price of one, including the Crypt, Resurrection Cemetery, Woods of the Dead, Psycho Circus, Nightmare Factory, Camp Killmore, and Legends of Horror.

Field of Terror

831 Windsor Perrineville Rd., East Windsor, NJ

Recommended ages: 10 and older

Brace yourself. You’ll get to explore four unique terror-filled attractions and encounter zombies of all shapes and sizes as you try desperately to get out of this intensely scary field. (Yikes!) All ages are permitted, though the venue does not recommend the Kornfield

of Karnage or Timmery Manor attractions for kids younger than 10.

Casola Farms Haunted Attractions

131 South Main St., Marlboro, NJ

Recommended Age: 12 and up

Go on a haunted hayride through the backwoods of New Jersey. Visit a haunted barn. Try to escape The Living Maze…but watch out for zombies! You’ll have to fight them off by playing Zombie Paintball. But don’t worry because they’re zombies, so they can’t shoot back (hopefully). After taking out the walking dead, treat yourself to some fresh baked cookies on the farm!

Fright Fest at Six Flags Great Adventure

1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ

Recommended ages: All ages, though younger kids should visit in the daytime

This one’s a classic. It’s a popular event that’s fun for all ages, but parents should use their discretion when bringing younger children and toddlers. Daytime is more family-friendly and considered appropriate for kids, though there are no age restrictions for attending the event at any time of day. Night-time activities include the ghoul parade (a fan favorite), live

stage shows, terrifying scare zones, plus six haunted houses designed for ultimate scare and Halloween. Fright Fest after 6:00 pm may be too intense for children under 13. For families with younger kids still looking for spooky season fun, we recommend checking out Boo Fest. Boo Fest is Halloween-themed fun for all ages; trick or treating, family-friendly rides, and tons of activities.

Brighton Asylum

2 Brighton Ave., Passaic, NJ

Recommended ages: There’s no age restriction, but children who attend can’t be carried, and must walk on their own

Just seeing the pictures online will make you want to put your phone down and just run. There’s all different terrifying attractions here. You’ll experience haunted houses, immersive escape rooms and a lot more. There’s a whole storyline to it, too, that centers around a decaying industrial complex.

13th Hour Haunted House

105 West Dewey Ave., Wharton, NJ

Recommended ages: 13 and older

Experience three haunted houses, eight escape rooms, and haunted hatchets where you’ll get to throw hatchets at the site’s

custom targets. The lights go off for glow in the dark hatches and targets. AGE REQUIREMENT: For the Haunted Hatches, participants must be 13 years or older. Children younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All other attractions, children younger than 13 must be with an adult.

Farm

of Horrors

1051 County Rd. 523, Flemington, NJ

Recommended ages: 16 and older

This one is intense. You’ll wander through 200 acres of spine-tingling attractions, starting with a hayride that will have your heart pounding. The driver will let you off pretty much in the middle of nowhere, leaving you to trek through the Trail of Terror (remember, this is at night). You’ll also have to figure your way out of the MassAcre Maize. Then, it all wraps up with the Carnevil of Chaos.

Scare Farm

120 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, NJ

Recommended ages: children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult

Norz Hill Farm & Market turns into a place of madness and mayhem as you experience three horror-filled attractions: the Creepy

Hollow, Paranoia Walking Trails, and the Slayride. The farm is recommended for adults and teens, but younger kids may come if parents think it’s appropriate for them. Keep in mind that carrying babies through is not permitted, and children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Bloodshed Farms Drive-Thru

2919 Route 206, Columbus

Recommended ages: all ages

On our list of haunted houses, this one makes for a fun weekend road trip with your family. You don’t get out of your car, but you’ll still experience some scary stuff. You’ll encounter twisted creatures and menacing characters as you ride through theatrical displays of Halloween hauntings.

Hayride of Horrors and Haunted House

671 Mt. Bethel Rd., Hackettstown

Recommended ages: all ages; children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult

Most trips through wooded areas at night are super scary, and this one is no exception. Prepare yourself for a 45-minute hayride through the woods that includes a cemetery of the walking dead. Then, you’ll venture through the haunted house, where even more scares come to haunt you. The event is designed for the whole family, but the haunted house attraction is not recommended for kids younger than 8. Kids younger than 15 must be accompanied by an adult at all attractions.

Night of Terror at Creamy Acre Farms

448 Lincoln Mill Rd., Mullica Hill

Recommended ages: Anyone 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult and must be supervised at all times. Ratio requirements are as follows: no more than 4 minors to 1 parent or guardian; age verification is required. With a name like “Creamy Acre Farms,” we really thought this would be a place where you can enjoy delicious ice cream and maybe see a few scary clowns here and there. But no—nothing could be further from the truth. You’ll experience a ride of terror—a hayride not for those who scare easily, packed with animatronics that will have you screaming in fear. Then there’s The Harvest, with terrifying surprises at every turn. You can also take a different hayride where you’ll have to use the wagon’s mounted paintball guns to defend yourself against a terrifying invasion of zombies.

Pumpkin Picking!

Have you ever wondered what Halloween would be like without the pumpkins? Neither have we; the thought alone is scarier than those haunted houses where actors dress like serial killers and chase you around with fake knives. Thankfully pumpkins are a fall staple — a requirement, really— that is available all over the place. So throw on some boots and a cozy flannel and take your family to the farm! Enjoy a quintessential autumn day of picking pumpkins to carve into jacko-lanterns, display as decor, or bake up into a yummy treat everyone will love. Here are some of the best farms in our area.

Barton Orchards

63 Apple Tree Lane., Poughquag, NY bartonorchards.com

There are so many fun activities and events happening at Barton Orchards this fall. Check out the Jack O’ Lantern Jubilee, family fun weekend, live music, and more! The farm also has hayrides, a petting zoo, a fun park, and pickyour-own pumpkins. Visit the country store for treats and farm concessions. Admission is free Monday-Friday. Weekends $15 admission.

You can also make a whole day out of it with a visit to Tree Top Adventures (open from 11:00am-3:00pm daily). Kids ages seven and up can swing and climb through the trees where they can experience a fun and challenging course for all skill levels. Reservations can be made directly on their website.

Dykeman Farms

31 Dykeman Lane, Pawling, NY dykemanfarm.com

Starting on September 24th, you’ll find over 70 varieties of pumpkins at Dykeman Farms. You’ll also find winter squashes, fall decorations, apples and free hay rides on the weekends. Parking is free and reservations are not required for pumpkin picking. The farm also has a store where you get seasonal produce, including their freshly-picked corn.

Fishkill Farms

9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY fishkillfarms.com

Get your pumpkins at Fishkill Farms in late September-October. Visit their Pick-Your-Own Page on Thursday or Friday the weekend you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information. Reservations are required for all visits. During your visit, you can also enjoy their fall harvest festivals (held every weekend in September-October) with live music, food, and, of course, yummy apple cider donuts. Visit their on-site farm store and outdoor market for homemade pies and treats, artisanal cheeses, local meats, maple syrup, locally made coffee, tea, local NY state cider, and tons more.

Greig Farm

227 Pitcher Lane., Red Hook, NY greigfarm.com

Pick-your-own pumpkins at Greig Farm from late September until the end of October. They also have an impressive farmers’ market open daily (10:00am- 7:00pm) stocked with local goods and produce from all around the Hudson Valley as well as a kitchen that serves breakfast, lunch, and to-go dinners. Behind the

barn, kids can feed pygmy goats and koi fish from their pond behind Grandiflora, The farm also has a three hiking loops that you and your family can explore and soak in the beauty of the Catskill Mountains as well as nearby ponds, geese, ducks, turtles, frogs, and more. The farm is open daily from 9:00am-7:00pm.

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard

130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com

You can start picking your pumpkins at Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard on September 17th. During your visit enjoy live country music, a BBQ lunch, hot apple cider donuts, and much more! Shop their on-site farm store for apples, farm-pressed sweet and hard cider, pasture-raised meats, fresh baked goods, and more. This farm gets very busy and reservations are required to pick. Note that each reservation ticket allows entry to the orchard for up to four people only. If you bring a party of more than four people, you will need to purchase an extra reservation. The pumpkin patch is open during the week and on apple picking on the weekends! Children under three years old are free. Parking entry is for one car only.

Hurds Family Farm

2187 State Rte. 32, Modena, NY hurdsfamilyfarm.com

Pumpkin picking starts in late September at Hurds Family Farm. They have tons of activities and attractions for families where you’ll find a bounce pillow, hayrides, giant slides, a kids corral, a playground area, duck races, obstacle courses, nature trails, and corn mazes. This fall, they are also hosting a fall festival from August 26th to October 30th. Pair your visit with some fall treats and food at Hurds with hot apple cider donuts, apple cider, local spirits, pizza, a variety of pies, maple syrup cotton candy, and much more! Hurds Family Farm is open on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am-5:00pm and Monday and Friday from 10:00am-4:00pm.They offer different tiered tickets with a VIP ($23 per person) or ultimate ticket ($29 per person) options. Kids under age three are free, but must be accompanied by an adult. You can also purchase apple picking or pumpkin picking separately and pay for the activities a la carte.

Kelder’s Farm

5755 US Route 209, Kerhonkson, NY keldersfarm.com

This farm is a bit of a drive from Westchester but it offers so many novelties that makes this day trip worth it. Enjoy pumpkin picking in September-October where you can find over a dozen varieties. They also have other fall favorites like gourds and squashes. During the fall, you and and your family can enjoy many events such as the fall harvest celebration from September 24th-October 31st, apple and pumpkin cannons, hay rides, and more! Tickets range from $12.95 per person (picking only) to $23.95 per person for a weekend pass. Kids two and under and adults 80 and older are free. Note: They are a cashless farm; however you can load cash onto a Kelder’s Farm gift card.

Outhouse Orchards

139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY outhouseorchardsny.com

Pick from a wide selection of pumpkins and gourds at Outhouse Orchards. You and your family can also enjoy hay rides, a corn maze, and yummy treats from their 1940s barn

converted into a farm store.

Stuart’s Fruit Farm

62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY stuartsfarm.com

Opened since 1828, this family-run farm is open every day from 10:00am-5:00pm from now until November. You can pick pumpkins from the field, or purchase a pre-picked pumpkin at their on-site store. You can also find gourds, Indian corn and corn stalks. Stuart’s only accepts cash or checks. They also only use farm bags; no outside bags are permitted.

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm

1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights, NY wilkensfarm.com

The pumpkin patch at Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm is open Wednesdays-Mondays from 10:00am-4:30pm in October with an anticipated start date of October 1st. There are no reservations needed and parking is free. The farm also has a bakery to get delicious pies and cider donuts can be ordered outside the bakery and a country market where you’ll find local crafts and country-themed gifts.

Fall/Winter Road Trips For Families

Now that summer is in the rear view, our eyes are fixed firmly on the road ahead. Road trips, that is! The fall is arguably the busiest season, so a family vacation is probably not in the works just yet. But road trips are a fun way to get your vacay fix in the “off-season.” And while everyone thinks the best weather is in in the summer, the beauty of vibrant fall leaves or a snowstorm in the woods will make the perfect backdrop for your family’s next getaway. Check out some great road trip options below.

Discover Central Massachusetts

Start the day exploring New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston, MA with “Fairies Aglow” in October, then enjoy lunch in their charming café. Afterwards, drive around the reservoir to see the Old Stone Church, built in 1890, where fall foliage is a stunning backdrop for photos and a lovely stroll.

In the afternoon, journey through time at the Worcester Art Museum, whose 38,000 artworks include objects from ancient Antioch, European Old Masters, early American paintings, Japanese ukiyo-e prints, and more.

Craving a glass of local wine? Beautiful Agronomy Farm Vineyard in Oakham, MA offers flights, pours, and bottle sales, plus a delicious selection of local cheeses, crackers, nuts, spreads, chips, and chocolate in their tasting room.

Later, check in to the Publick House Historic Inn in Sturbridge. Nestled on acres of beautiful countryside, you’ll be greeted with warm pecan sweet rolls at the Inn’s famous Bake Shoppe. Choose a room in the Historic Inn, dating from 1771, or the Chamberlain House, a more recent addition.

Spend your second day at Old Sturbridge Village exploring the

200+ acres and 40 historical buildings of this recreated 1830s rural New England town. Be sure to stay for “Phantoms by Firelight” from 4:30-9:00pm on October weekends to enjoy spooky delights from carnival-esque performances and candy to storytelling by the bonfire. Or visit later in the season for “Christmas by Candlelight”, a unique look at the history of holiday traditions.

For information on any of these attractions, plus additional lodging options, restaurants, and more, visit discovercentralma.org.

Frederick County, Maryland

Frederick County, Maryland provides a peaceful, relaxing and scenic getaway for families. 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.

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 this fall, plan to visit fall festivals on local farms. Conquer the twists and turns of the corn maze, bounce to new heights on the jumping pillows, get hands-on petting and feeding the farm animals and pick out the perfect pumpkin.

Celebrate autumn by attending Colorfest in Thurmont, Maryland, one of the largest outdoor craft shows on the East Coast, on October 12-13. Explore amazing crafts, art, jewelry, clothing, and a variety of delicious food. Looking ahead, at the sailing

The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark

Experience a year-round escape in the heart of the scenic Catskills at the Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark, where adventure and relaxation blend seamlessly. Imagine stepping into a vibrant oasis where the temperature is always a balmy 84 degrees, no matter the season. As home to New York’s largest indoor waterpark, The Kartrite offers an unparalleled aquatic playground. Dive into a world of exhilarating slides, surf the waves on the FlowRider, or take a leisurely float down the adventure river—there’s excitement for every age and thrill level.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the waterpark. The resort offers a wide array of activities designed to thrill and entertain. Test your aim with paintball, find your zen with goat yoga, or channel your inner warrior with ax throwing and archery. Indoors, the excitement continues with a state-of-the-art arcade, a challenging ropes course, and a classic bowling alley—perfect for family fun or friendly competition.

through the Winter Solstice event beginning November 23, see over 25 lighted boats on display in Carroll Creek Park in Downtown Frederick. Go to visitfrederick.org to learn more.

ture, refuel at one of our seven diverse bars and eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick, casual bite or a sophisticated dining experience, our culinary options cater to every taste. From hand-crafted cocktails to gourmet dishes, you’ll find the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings.

For those who crave the great outdoors, the surrounding Catskills offer stunning trails perfect for hiking, where you can immerse yourself in nature and take in breathtaking mountain views. After a day of adven-

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun weekend with friends, The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark is your go-to destination for creating unforgettable memories. With so much to explore and enjoy, you’ll find every reason to book your stay today!

Lake George, Warren County

As the last leaves of foliage descend to the ground, there’s still plenty of opportunity to keep that autumn spirit bright at Lake George in Warren County.

Take in the views of the majestic scenery firsthand in the Lake George Area, whether it’s hiking the nearby Adirondack Mountains, biking through the open trails, finding the perfect fishing spot, or simply taking a scenic drive to experience the vibrant fall foliage. After the experience of the great outdoors, grab your lederhosen and enjoy authentic German music and cuisine at one of many Oktoberfest celebrations.

Are you a sports fan or are simply looking for a fun family outing? Witness the next generation of hockey superstars live and experience high-paced action with another electrifying season of Adirondack Thunder Hockey at the Cool Insuring Arena in downtown Glens Falls. The season runs from October through April.

Winter in the Lake George Area continues to be redefined as a season of activity and merriment, thanks in part to the bundles of events and recreational opportunities taking place. Ski and snowboard down premier mountain resorts, go ice fishing on top of the nearby frozen lakes, snowshoe on the local trails and preserves, and discover more reasons why the Lake George Area celebrates the cold.

Embrace the holidays at the annual Adirondack Holiday Festival, complete with Santa sightings, family games, and more. Explore a series of immersive installations at the Lake George Winter’s Dream and awaken your senses. During the month of February be sure to

Explore MetroWest Boston

From beer gardens to apple picking, state parks to beautiful art, fall is a great time for a weekend trip to MetroWest Boston! Start at Hopkinton State Park enjoying gorgeous fall foliage while kayaking on the lake or hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and more on the trails.

In the evening, catch a play, concert, or theatrical event—like October’s “The Haunt”—at Hopkinton Center for the Arts. Get a great night’s sleep at The VERVE, with its fun and funky pop art décor, or Aloft with their pool tables and lobby games.

In the morning, visit the Danforth Art Museum, a jewel box housing 3,500+ art pieces, including groundbreaking sculptures depicting the African and African American experience by Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller.

No visit is complete without stopping at legendary Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers, one of 17 breweries in MetroWest, to enjoy their Pumpkin Crop Lager with a schnitzel sandwich. Afterwards, spend a few hours in Level99’s 50+ mental and physical escape rooms and challenges.

The next day, tour the Wayside Inn. The oldest inn in America’s 100-acre property includes the Old Barn farm stand with antique farming tools, the historic Grist Mill, and beautiful grounds containing the Longfellow Memorial Garden, the Redstone Schoolhouse from “Mary Had a Little Lamb”, the Martha-Mary Chapel, and Josephine’s Pond for fishing. Stay for a delicious gourmet meal in their historic dining room.

attend the Brant Lake and Lake George Winter Carnivals where you can participate in various activities such as Outhouse Races, Firework Displays, the infamous Polar Plunge, and more.

Rake in the remainder of Fall Fun before sledding into a wonderland of Winter Events and Activities in the Lake George Area.

Spend the afternoon at the American Heritage Museum, where your tour starts in a WWI trench where a nurse explains what it was like on the Front while bombs explode above you and the floor shakes. This extraordinary museum features one-of-a-kind historic aircraft, tanks, and cars, immersive exhibits and living history events. Afterwards, wander the charming shops and boutiques of downtown Hudson.

For information on these attractions, plus additional lodging options, restaurants, and more, visit metrowestvisitors.org.

North Central Massachusetts

From fall foliage to harvest festivals, applepicking to glorious hikes, the cooler days of autumn are a great time to visit north central Massachusetts. Start your weekend trip at the beautiful Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, housing historical collections of Shaker material, Hudson River and New England landscape painting, folk portraits, and indigenous art and artifacts on a glorious 210-acre landscape with stunning views and miles of walking trails.

Check in to Great Wolf Lodge New England in Fitchburg in the afternoon for an adventure all its own. Let the kids play in the massive 84-degree indoor waterpark, exclusive to guests. The fun continues throughout the resort: battle a dragon while playing MagiQuest, test your skills at the Northern Lights Arcade, challenge the indoor ropes course and come together for nightly Story Time.

foliage by hiking to the mountain’s summit for a scenic 4-state view.

After dinner, head to Groton Hill Music Center for an amazing folk, jazz, classical or Broadway concert, then back to the Lodge for a great night’s sleep.

Start day two at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area or Wachusett Mountain State Reservation in Princeton, where there’s no shortage of seasonal festivals, from Oktoberfest to Apple Fest, or take in the stunning

Rhode Island

Just over 3 hours from Manhattan, Rhode Island welcomes NYC families every fall with a myriad of family-friendly things to do. The state is 37 miles wide and 48 miles long, so there’s much to explore in just one trip!

If your family loves animals, head over to the Roger Williams Park Zoo, home to over 100 rare and fascinating species from around the world. Kids love petting the armadillos and seeing New England’s only Komodo dragon.

Rhode Island boasts nearly 400 miles of beautiful shoreline, with beaches, playgrounds, bike paths, picnic areas, and tons of delicious food options. Spend an afternoon strolling through museums and stopping for a refreshing treat at an ice cream shop. The Providence Children’s Museum is a family favorite.

There are always exciting events happening in Rhode Island to plan your trip around. This fall’s lineup includes the Rogue Island Comedy Festival, Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival, Norman Bird Sanctuary's 50th Anniversary Harvest Fair, Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, Scituate Art Festival, Autumnfest in Woonsocket,

In the afternoon, explore Davis Farmland in Sterling, the ultimate hands-on discovery farm for kids. Pet, cuddle, feed and groom the largest sanctuary of heritage farm animals in North America, or play pretend in Imagine Acres and Adventure Land. Everyone will love harvesting apples and pumpkins in the orchard.

For information on any of these attractions, other farms and orchards, plus additional lodging options, restaurants, and more, visit www.visitnorthcentral.com.

Newport Restaurant Week, and the Annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade, to name a few. Go to VisitRhodeIsland.com to learn more.

Rochester

Fall is one of the best times of the year to visit Rochester and the Finger Lakes! Rochester is home to over 75 experiences for families, all within an hour’s drive of the city. It’s easy to get to, and even easier to get around. Most of the town’s greatest offerings are no more than 15 minutes away from one another.

Enjoy stunning fall foliage views throughout the city and surrounding areas, including the Erie Canal and Genesee River. Experience family fun on the farm at one of many agritourism experiences in the area, including: Wickham Farms, Stokoe Farms and Long Acre Farms. Pick a pumpkin or apple, and experience fall harvest traditions, celebrations, corn mazes and farm activities at these local spots.

Key among these attractions is The Strong National Museum of Play -- the only museum in the world dedicated to the exploration of all things PLAY. The Strong is home to the largest collection of toys, dolls and games in the world, as well as the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame. The Strong is a true international destination and is the largest year-round cultural attraction in upstate New York.

Another must-visit museum is the Genesee Country Village & Museum, a 19th-century village which is open year-round but features a special focus on seasonal events around Halloween and the Holidays. This includes the annual “A Walk in the Dark,” which features candlelit tours of the buildings complete with ghost stories.

As fall progresses and winter arrives, there are many indoor

Sullivan Catskills

The only thing better than sweater weather in the Northeast is enjoying it in New York’s Sullivan Catskills. Plan to embark on an adventure to this renowned vacationland, just 90 miles from New York City, for a haven full of vibrant small-town charm.

The countryside becomes a stunning kaleidoscope during fall foliage season. The colorful Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail amplifies leaf-peeping. It’s a collection of 75+ hand-painted Dove sculptures— in tribute to the Woodstock Music and Arts Festival held here in 1969. To guide you to each dove location, download the trail map at SullivanCatskills.com or find each dove’s location on the free Sullivan Catskills Go app. The first dove is at Bethel Woods Center for Arts, the site of the Woodstock festival, where you can plan a family day around Harvest Festival every Sunday through October 6. It’s a farmers’ and artists’ market featuring the region’s bounty, talent, and beauty. Other family-friendly activities include pumpkin picking at Cunningham Family Farms, apple picking at Majestic Farm, and Alpaca Walks at Buck Brook Alpacas.

As the trees settle into dormancy and the weather turns colder, Halloween and the holiday season come to life in the Sullivan Catskills. At Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Peace, Love & Pumpkins, an enchanting walk-through Halloween experience and marketplace runs from October 11-26. Then, beginning November 29 and running through December 29, it’s the Peace, Love & Lights drivethrough holiday light show (with walk-only Mondays).

There is so much more to explore and experience— artisanal

experiences and activities - or ways to get outside! Enjoy skiing or winter walks at a Rochester park. Visit Seneca Park Zoo (open year-round), the RMSC Museum & Science Center, and the RMSC Planetarium.

Around the holidays, Roc Holiday Village brings the magic of the holiday season to downtown Rochester. The George Eastman Museum offers special holiday programs and events, including Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display, a favorite for all ages. Enjoy holiday traditions like The Nutcracker performed by the Rochester City Ballet, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Holiday Pops, breakfasts with Santa, holiday shopping, and light displays just to name a few.

shopping, farmers’ markets, restaurants, art galleries, and fall festivals— throughout the charming small towns of Wurtsboro, Mountaindale, Liberty, Bethel, Jeffersonville, Livingston Manor, Callicoon, Roscoe, and others. With all there is to do here, you’ll be looking for a place to stay. The full-service resorts Villa Roma and the Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark cater to family fun year-round. If self-catering appeals to your family’s needs, vacation rentals are plentiful, too. To book an autumn visit and plan your itinerary, visit SullivanCatskills.com.

Explore Western Mass

In a beautiful corner of classic New England, dotted with dozens of unique attractions and buzzing with cool college vibes, lies picturesque Western Mass, home to some of the most beautiful scenery in all of the northeast.

Long celebrated as a “triple threat” destination, Western Mass bursts with top attractions and provides easy access to versatile recreation for a superb dollar value. Must-see attractions include the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, Yankee Candle Village, Six Flags New England, MGM Springfield and the Springfield Museum, and The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum. Major events like the Big E, IRONMAN 70.3 Western Mass and Bright Nights at Forest Park, along with craft fairs, sporting events and the arts, are seasonal favorites.

Western Mass lets visitors mix history with family fun, pair cool cafes with the great outdoors, and savor equal parts outdoor adventure and funky antiques. Surprises can be found region-wide. Perfectly positioned where Interstates 90 and 91 meet, Western Mass is rightly regarded as the “Crossroads of New

England,” and New York City is less than three hours away. The region is also accessible by train and Peter Pan Bus Lines. Learn more at explorewesternmass.com.

Where the mountains wear blankets of silent, untouched

warming winter wanderers. Where time seems to waiver between nostalgia and now. For generations, families and

Photo Credit: Kacey O’Brien | Historic photo courtesy of Chapman Museum

Dave & Buster’s

From grown-ups to kids, everybody needs a place to let loose and have limitless fun. Dave & Buster’s has entered the chat. Pull up with the whole family and experience a sea of 100+ arcade games in D&B’s epic Midway. Whether you’re letting the kids win or showing them that you still got it, D&B has games for days, including virtual reality, racing games, bigname titles, arcade classics, and more!

One thing they don’t play about is food, so you know their menu is filled to the brim ith top tier, “leave-the-plate-clean” food. Whether you’re feeling snacky, fancy or something in between, D&B has all kinds of bites for all kinds of vibes.

While the kids mash buttons and stack up tickets, parents can kick back back with a cold one and watch the game on the big screen. From brews to a proper glass of cab, the bar stays stocked.

If you are looking for a place to host a fall birthday party, anniversary celebration, corporate happy hour, employee appreciation, or any other type of event, D&B’s professional planners will make recommendations for even the pickiest of palates. From groups of ten to two thousand, Dave &

Fall/Winter Experiences

By New york Family

The fall is a favorite for many people, welcoming families outdoors for autumnal celebrations in the cool, crisp air. It’s definitely a good time to enjoy being out and about with your family before the winter doldrums set in (it’s only October, we still have time). This means it’s time to enjoy all the seasonal offerings we are lucky to have in New York!

Whether you’re eager to go full Harvest mode with the family this season, like Halloween events, pumpkin-picking or simply taking advantage of all the unique spots to visit for a day of adventure, our autumn experiences are ready for you and your family this fall, so enjoy!

Buster’s is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories with your friends, family, youth groups, or co-workers. From Chef-crafted banquets to unlimited video game play, they have all the details covered.

INTER_ Art Experience

This fall, embark on an enchanting journey of self-discovery at INTER_, an immersive art experience where ancient wisdom meets techenabled art. Visitors of all ages are welcome to explore the labyrinth of otherworldly environments featuring two floors of interactive and generative exhibits.

INTER_ creates futuristic outposts that push the boundaries of art and selfdiscovery, helping humans find, foster, and share genuine joy and curiosity while losing themselves in new worlds. Partnering with artists, engineers, technologists, and visionaries from all over the Earth, INTER_ combines interdimensional wisdom with human creativity to encourage every selfexplorer to embrace the magic of art and find their power.

At INTER_, the opportunities are endless, and the experience is one-of-a-kind. Connect with the beauty, laughter, and power that lies within on your journey through INTER_.

INTER_ is located in SoHo, NYC at 415 Broadway. The experience is accessible for all abilities and ages. Tickets are on sale now at

interiam.co/tickets. Follow along on Instagram @inter__iam, where you’ll get a sneak peak at some of INTER_’s awe-inspiring imagery.

Belle da Costa Greene: A Librarian's Legacy at the Morgan Library and Museum

To mark the 2024 centennial of its life as a public institution, the Morgan Library & Museum will present a major exhibition devoted to the life and career of its inaugural director, Belle da Costa Greene. Widely recognized as an authority on illuminated manuscripts and deeply respected as a cultural heritage executive, Greene was one of the most prominent librarians in American history. She was the daughter of Richard T. Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard College, and was at birth known by a different name: Belle Marion Greener. After her parents separated in the 1890s, her mother changed the family surname to Greene and the family began to pass as White in a racist and segregated America.

Greene is well known for the instrumental role she played in building the exceptional collection of rare books and manuscripts formed by American financier J. Pierpont Morgan, who hired her as his personal librarian in 1905. After Morgan’s death in 1913, Greene continued as the librarian of his son and heir, J.P. Morgan Jr., who would transform his father’s Library into a public institution in 1924. But her career as director of what was then known as the Pierpont Morgan Library — a leadership role she held for twenty-four years — is less well understood, as are aspects of her education, private collecting, and dense social and professional networks.

The exhibition will trace Greene’s storied life, from her roots in a predominantly Black community in Washington, D.C., to her distinguished career at the helm of one of the world’s great research librar-

ies. Through extraordinary objects — from medieval manuscripts and rare printed books to archival records and portraits — the exhibition will demonstrate the confidence and savvy Greene brought to her roles as librarian, scholar, curator, and cultural executive, and honor her enduring legacy. Go to.themorgan.org for more information.

Urban Air

Westfield World Trade Center

Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement this fall at Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park in Brooklyn, the ultimate destination for indoor family fun catering to all ages! Swing by with the family and discover a massive indoor space for bouncing, climbing, playing, and a lot of fun. The indoor adventure park features Trampolines, a Warrior Course, Spin & Flip Zone Bumper Cars, Tubes Soft Play Playground, Virtual Reality, and more.

Urban Air is a go-to spot for open play and birthday parties every day of the week.

Nestled in the heart of Lower Manhattan, Westfield World Trade Center is a vibrant destination, perfect for families seeking a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment with the stunning backdrop of autumn in New York City. With over 85 shops and restaurants, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy. Conveniently connected to most subway lines and the PATH, Westfield World Trade Center offers easy access from all corners of the city, making it an ideal spot for a family day out. The center’s iconic architecture offers a unique backdrop for exploration, with its impressive design captivating visitors of all ages.

Open play walk-ins do not require reservations. Elevate your child’s fall birthday at Urban Air with an unforgettable birthday bash at Urban Air, famous for their exciting parties. For birthday party packages, call 347-732-5438 to learn more. Urban Air Brooklyn is located at 4422 2nd Ave in Brooklyn, just 5 blocks away from Industry City and Costco.

Westfield World Trade Center offers a wide range of events and celebrations throughout the fall and holiday season. Kick off the month of October with Taste of the Oculus, a weeklong celebration of the food and beverage offerings on campus. Winter Whirl, a roller rink on the Oculus Floor, returns at the end of November, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. Families planning their visit can enhance their experience by downloading the Westfield app in the app store. This handy tool allows visitors to plan their trip, ensuring

Ultimate fall/winter family fU n G U

they make the most of all the exciting activities and amenities available. For more information and to start planning your visit, go to westfield.com/united-states/westfieldworldtradecenter.

ide in partnership with

Wildlife Conservation Society

Westfield World Trade Center

Fall family programs make this season one of the best times to visit a Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) zoo or aquarium. Enjoy the crisp autumn air together and take a closer look at the wild world around us, all without leaving New York City. Early birds and night owls alike will find fun activities, from sensory-inclusive mornings at the zoo to sleepovers at the aquarium.

WCS Education offers exciting experiences for animal lovers of all ages, from infants to adults. Each curated program offers exclusive activities led by WCS Educators, like exhibit tours, STEM crafts, and meeting an animal up close. Some even coincide with the Bronx Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo and the New York Aquarium’s Ascarium celebration!

Bring your baby to the Queens Zoo for Stroller Safaris to see South America's spectacled bear cubs or a family of the world’s smallest deer. Learn what it takes to be a keeper at the Central Park Zoo with hands-on animal care weekend programs for kids, teens and adults. Bring your troop to see porcupines and Pallas's cats on the Prospect Park Zoo’s new scavenger hunts just for Girl Scouts.

WCS also offers camps when school is closed. The Queens Zoo

they make the most of all the exciting activities and amenities available. For more information and to start planning your visit, go to westfield.com/united-states/westfieldworldtradecenter.

added new day camp themes and extra dates, while The Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium make it easy to arrange dropoff and pickup by adding a grownups-only coworking space with activities during school break camp. Visit wcs.education/explore for more info.

Changing Seasons with LaTonya Yvette

A beloved Brooklyn storyteller on turning the page and finally finding home

By Alex A Wilding

There’s a sweet moment toward the end of LaTonya Yvette’s new collection of essays, Stand in My Window: Meditations on Home and How We Make It, where she sends her friend, Claude, a picture of her freshly painted living room in Fort Greene. “You’re always so good at making a house feel like a home,” Claude writes back. “Your homes have a scent. Your clothes. Upstate too. And they all have the same feeling.”

When I read these words, I smiled. I could feel LaTonya’s hand in mine. I could smell her delicious perfume—notes of palo santo, vetiver—and I could hear her warm, unmistakable laugh. Like Claude, I have the privilege of calling LaTonya a close friend. I’ve spent many a night dancing with our kids in her colorful, expertly thrifted Brooklyn apartments over the years.

That feeling pervades all of the above spaces. It is a feeling of safety, of belonging, and of the search for joy no matter how bleak the season. It is felt in the pink bookshelf hauled from a street corner and given a second life, or in the frayed piece of her grandmother’s lace hung as a curtain. Quite simply, that feeling is LaTonya herself.

LaTonya Yvette may be a close friend of mine, but I was (and continue to be) a fangirl first. Like so many in-the-know New York moms, I came upon her heartfelt writing, effortless style, and that signature smile when she first burst onto the predominantly white lifestyle blog scene in 2012. Yes, her blog covered the ups and downs of urban motherhood—with light-strewn windows into her plant-filled homes (not to mention, her enviable closet edits!)—but LaTonya was never just another Mommy Blogger.

She was, and is, a writer growing in Brooklyn-—one who has generously shared a window into her life every step of the way.

In Stand in My Window, LaTonya writes of home, both in Fort Greene and upstate at The Mae House, the the 200-year-old house she fearlessly purchased on her own in 2021, lovingly restored, and opened up as a rest-asresidency space for BIPOC communities.

While you may have seen images of LaTonya’s dwellings over the years—whether on her blog or gorgeous Instagram feed, or in her debut book, 2019's Woman of Color -- in Stand in My Window, LaTonya weaves together the intimate stories behind these spaces, the strong Black women who came before her, and on whose shoulders she stands, and how she finally, painstakingly, found home.

What led you to share more of your heart on the page, and how did you grow as a writer in the process?

Stand in My Window is quite a large departure from Woman of Color to me… Woman of Color did what it was supposed to do – it allowed me to break into this nearly impossible publishing industry. [I sold] Woman of Color in 2017 when I was known as a lifestyle blogger. [Stand in My Window] was sold in 2020 during a time in which I had already grown as a writer, but also knew I was leaving the blogging space quite indefinitely, although there had been this new-found focus on Black people in the arts and online. So having the blog helped, as did having Woman of Color, but I had, in some ways, already departed – the work that wasn’t quite done inside of me, too. Overall, though, Stand in My Window was sold without a formal shape. And I needed some more experience and growing over the years of writing it…I think that is the heart that is picked up, as is the lack of digital veil.

There is strong reverence for lineage in Stand in My Window. Not just for your

actual family but for your literary and political heroes, too. What does community and belonging mean to you?

Yes, thank you! I grew up where respect for the matriarchal figures in my family was paramount. And to be honest, when I think of our family structure—generations down— by design and by flaws, there were mostly women. And the men that were around deeply respected and revered the women, too. That alone allows me to step back and see how intricately layered the history of these women are and were in our upbringing. And when I set out to be a writer and a community builder, the work of Jamaica Kincaid, Audre Lorde, Mariame Kaba, were voices that whispered to me in the night and in the morning as a mother does. As I do to my own children. Reading bell hooks throughout writing this book and before, reminded me that I could build community, but I had to choose it for myself. So, to make it, I had to accept it. I ALSO had to BE it. And quite literally, live by her ethos. Which strangely mirror some of my maternal family’s, even of what was never ever spoken. Maybe Stand in My Window will do that one day for someone else? I could only hope. But those people truly held me. I am only here because of them.

While Stand in My Window is about both the rediscovery of home and the meaning of home (in all forms), I was taken by the exploration of travel in the second half. Does travel change how you view home? And how do you find home when you travel?

The more of the world I see, the more I realize how much I don’t know. Writing the book allowed me to explore the various versions of my own home and what I understand them to be. Now I realize, in travel that I do not seek to understand, but to just witness the many ways folks experience and

understand home. Being able to move my body between space by choice as an adult is such a layered experience—there’s travel writing as work, traveling with my children to get away,

traveling to just let there be room to write-- it’s a privilege I am now aware of. And in another area, I think I am so used to the movement, that movement is part of how I create.

Stand in My Window is a book in two parts, Inhale and Exhale, and you talk throughout about the role of meditation and mindfulness in your life. Can you share what your practice looks like these days? Any tips, especially for busy parents, on how to carve the time and space?

Waking early to write (Toni Morrison taught me this in writing and in motherhood). I also heard from a therapist a long time ago, which is pretty embodied in the book, anything can be a form of meditation: sweeping the floor, washing the dishes, waiting in an aisle. I understand now that life will rarely slow down, so making time is a practice. As is anything worthwhile or useful.

One of my favorite chapters is “Lil Red,” named after your trusty toolbox, as it dives deep into your own “restoration” alongside that of The Mae House. As the kitchen is finally painted, and the native, black-eyedSusan flowers blossom, you write that you, too, were “coming into whatever new self stood on the other side of it all.” How have you grown since writing those words? What does the rest of 2024 and looking forward to 2025 look like for you?

To be honest, I wish I knew what 2024 looked like beyond the book. I am deep in getting comfortable with it being in YOUR hands. And maybe more as a sign of a present practice, that’s where I am. I can’t move further than [the release of Stand in My Window] on November 12th. Once that happens, maybe I’ll think to January and so on. I have more writing to do in the meantime, and I am sorting “my body in the shape of things.”

Lastly, for fun, beloved objects, or the memory of objects past, play a huge part in both your story and what makes a home: the clock, your mother’s shattered jaguar, or “the desk of your own” come to mind. Are there any new or salvaged objects in either your Brooklyn apartment or at The Mae House that mark this new chapter in your life?

You gave me a signed Carrie Mae Weems poster! It says, “Remember to dream.” I am hanging it up next week. That’s where I am…I am trying to remember to dream, and I am quite lucky to have people and things that remind me to do so.

Stand in My Window: Meditations on Home and How We Make It is out November 12th via Dial Press.

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

calendar

BY SHARA LEVINE

ROCKLAND

Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND® New York

WHEN: Oct. 3-27, Fridays, 11 am – 6 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 6 pm; Monday, Oct. 14, 10 am – 6 pm.

WHERE: LEGOLAND New York Resort, One Legoland Blvd., Goshen

AGES: All

WHAT: Put on your costumes and head to the park to see it transformed into a bewitching party filled with candy, seasonal shows, and Halloween themed LEGO characters.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $69. (845) 410–0290, legoland. com

Oktoberfest

WHEN: Oct. 5, 12 – 6 pm

WHERE: Clover Stadium, 1 Palisades Credit Union Park Dr., Pomona

AGES: All

WHAT: Celebrate Oktoberfest with more than 20 craft beers on tap, over 10 food trucks, live music from The Vibe and Marshall’s Law, NCAAF on the Jumbrotron, and more.

WANT TO GO?: $5. eventbrite. com

Bats: Mysteries of the Night

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 4, 5 – 6:30 pm

WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Center Outdoor Discovery Center, 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall

AGES: All

WHAT: Dive into the enchanting world of bats with an immersive evening nature program perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages!

WANT TO GO?: $14; $12 ages 3-12. (845) 534–5506, hhnaturecenter.org

Nyack Famous Street Fair

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 10 am – 5 pm

WHERE: Main St., Downtown Nyack

AGES: All

WHAT: Start your holiday shopping, indulge in a variety of food & drinks, have an old fashioned egg cream and listen to music at the gazebo.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (201) 410–5416, pjspromotions.com

Fall Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 am – 2 pm

WHERE: The Shops at Nanuet, 5101 Fashion Drive, Nanuet

AGES: All

WHAT: Bring the whole family for face painting, balloon twisting, photo opportunities, crafts, music and a can’t-miss puppy costume parade.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (845) 501–4272, simon.com

Rockland County YouthFest

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 20, 11 am – 3 pm

WHERE: Rockland Community College Fieldhouse, 145 College Road, Suffern

AGES: All

WHAT: Learn about the many services available to families in Rockland County under one roof and enjoy a variety of activities.

WANT TO GO?: Free. rocklandcountyny.gov

Science in Action

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 21, 6 – 7 pm

WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, 10 West Ramapo Road, Garnerville

AGES: 9 – 12

WHAT: Participate in fun chemistry, physics and technology experiments to discover more about the world

around you!

WANT TO GO?: Free. (845) 786–3800, haverstrawlibrary. org

Trick or Treat Halloween Event

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 4 – 6 pm

WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack

AGES: All

WHAT: Join the Palisades Center and ForTheCulture Foundation for music, candy, kids entertainment, raffles, and more!

WANT TO GO?: Free. (845) 348–1000, palisadescenter.com

Boo at the Zoo

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 10:30 am – 3 pm

WHERE: Trailside Museum and Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park, 3006 Seven Lakes Drive, Bear Mountain

Enjoy Halloween fun at Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND New York.

AGES: All

WHAT: Wear your favorite not-so-spooky Halloween costume to make bear treats, learn about animals, take part in pumpkin decorating, play matching games, and make some crafts.

WANT TO GO?: $1 per person suggested donation. trailsidemuseumsandzoo.org

Nanuet Fall Festival

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 11 am – 5 pm

WHERE: Lake Nanuet Park, 1 Lake Nanuet Drive, Nanuet

AGES: All

WHAT: Enjoy live music, food & beer trucks, pumpkin decorating, face painting, games, and Trunk or Treat.

WANT TO GO?: Free. nanuetchamber.com

BERGEN

Tricks and Treats

WHEN: Daily, various, through Oct. 31.

WHERE: SEALIFE New Jersey at American Dream, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford

AGES: All

WHAT: Help Serafina the Sea Witch solve ‘spook-splash-tic’ challenges, learn all about ‘scary-not scary’ sea creatures, and earn yourself some cool SEA LIFE Halloween treats!

WANT TO GO?: Starting at $28.99. visitsealife.com

Fall Fest at LSC

WHEN: Daily through Nov. 3. See website for complete schedule

WHERE: Liberty Science Center, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City

AGES: All

WHAT: Celebrate the spooky season with daily trick-ortreating, Halloween dance parties, a Potions Lab and more spooky science demos and shows.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $26. (201) 200–1000, lsc.org

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 1 pm & 5 pm

WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South Street, Morristown

AGES: 8 and under WHAT: Join Blippi to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms and instruments, through all your favorite Blippi hits.

WANT TO GO?: $39-$59. (973) 539–8008, mayoarts.org

Englewood Family Wellness Weekend

WHEN: Oct. 5-6, Saturday and Sunday, 1 – 5 pm.

WHERE: Veterans Memorial Park Englewood, Englewood

AGES: All

WHAT: The whole family will benefit from this weekend featuring health and wellness providers, local vendors, delicious food trucks, kids activities, and live music.

WANT TO GO?: Free. eventbrite.com

2nd Annual Fall Food Truck

Festival

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 6, 12 – 5 pm

WHERE: Bergen Town Center, Route 4 East & Forest Ave., Paramus

AGES: All

WHAT: Kick off the fall season

Liberty Science Center hosts a Fall Fest all this month.

with delicious bites and non-stop entertainment and activities including live music, face painting, mini golf, arts & crafts, and more.

WANT TO GO?: $5. (201) 845–4050, bergentowncenter.com

Open Cockpit Days 2024

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 10:30 am – 4 pm.

WHERE: The New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame, 400 Fred Wehran Drive, Teterboro

AGES: All

WHAT: Sit in the cockpit of a very rare Lockheed Bushmaster plane, a U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter, and a M*A*S*H Bell 47 helicopter made famous during the Korean War.

WANT TO GO?: $20; $15 for Seniors 65 and older; $12 for children 3-11; free for children 2 and younger. njahof.org

Fall Family Festival 2024

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 11 am – 2 pm

WHERE: Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, 411 E Clinton Ave., Tenafly

AGES: All

WHAT: Come out for an autumn-themed day packed with activities and entertainment including live music, bounce houses & inflatables, delicious food trucks, live music, and more.

WANT TO GO?: $36 family up to 5 members. jccotp.org

Zoo Boo 2024

WHEN: Oct. 18-20, Friday, 6 – 9 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm & 6 – 9 pm; Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm.

WHERE: Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus

AGES: All

WHAT: This spooky fundraiser features trick-or-treating, Mad Science shows, music, and train rides!

WANT TO GO?: $8; $5 train ticket. friendsofbergencountyzoo.org

Family Fun Day

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 am WHERE: NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark

AGES: All

WHAT: This day includes regional poets, face painting, a DJ, drag storytelling with Harmonica Sunbeam, Honey Marie and Chrisy Fabs, and food trucks.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (888) 696–5722, njpac.org

Tenafly Fall Fest

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 20, noon – 5 pm

WHERE: Huyler Park, 1 Piermont Road, Tenafly AGES: All

WHAT: Celebrate the new season with a town-wide costume contest, exciting games, delicious food, live performances, a DJ Dance Party and more!

WANT TO GO?: Free. eventbrite.com

How Music Saved My Son’s Life

By Jeannine Cintron

I’ll never forget the feeling of seeing my son perform on stage for the very first time. He was 13 and had recently taken up the guitar, playing for just a few short months. His music school often held their shows at the Stone Pony, a New Jersey venue made famous by The Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen. It was a far cry from the elementary school auditorium performances many parents are used to, and I prayed he wasn’t going to let his nerves get to him. He’s normally very shy and introverted, and I worried he was going to do whatever it took to blend into the background. So, as the lights dimmed, I held my breath, grabbed my phone and started recording.

Then, to my utmost surprise, the show kicked off with a guitar solo by my son. The spotlight was squarely on him as he perfectly strummed the opening notes to Everlong by the Foo Fighters on the electric guitar he had received as a birthday gift not before. The fact that he chose to play one of my favorite songs was not a coincidence, either.

I was beaming. You could practically hear me smiling. There is really no accurate way to describe the emotions coursing through my body as I watched my firstborn child, this whole person that I made, completely nail this guitar solo in front of a crowd of people. The waves of pride kept coming as the day wore on, gleefully watching him play several more songs. When I got home, I posted the video of the guitar solo on my social media and my heart continued to swell with pride from the supportive comments and reactions, until I thought it might actually burst. It was easily one of the best days of my life, and hopefully his too.

That day, it hit me that the guitar is not just a musical instrument to my son. It is his therapy, his lifeline, his weapon against dark and intrusive thoughts.

Before he found this hobby, he was not in a great place. His father and I divorced when he was in the sixth grade, smack dab in the middle of a pandemic, and it hit him hard. He was depressed, distracted in class, and seemed un-

happy almost all the time. His grades were falling and the teachers kept calling. I didn’t know what to tell them. He had few friends, if any, and his shyness and insecurities worsened.

Despite his introverted nature, I found a therapist for him and encouraged him to open up, hoping that he could talk his way through the pain with a professional. I’m a huge proponent for therapy and mental health care. I’ve been in therapy for six years and I’d be lost without it, so my hopes were high.

His therapist, a soft-spoken, youngish guy was able to connect with him – whenever they were talking about video games, that is. I suspect their conversations never really rose beyond surface level. Not that he was a bad therapist. I could tell that he saw my son for exactly who he was: a shy, sweet, funny, intelligent, and deeply misunderstood kid. He just couldn’t crack that dark shell he was hiding in. Eventually the therapist stopped taking our insurance and his sessions came to an end. My son was thrilled; I was worried. Never in a million years could I have imagined that an instrument would be the breakthrough that we needed.

We’re talking about a child who has hated almost every song I have ever played, who scoffed at other kids for their taste in popular music his entire life. When he was younger I never even considered putting him in a music class – the thought seemed ridiculous at the time. Instead, we tried karate, baseball, swimming, basketball, flag football. In retrospect, I should have also put him in art classes, but all boys love sports, right? Yikes, I know. He did really enjoy flag football, though, and it helped his confidence level immensely. Until it didn’t, anyway.

When he was a baby, his favorite show was called Jack’s Big Music Show. It was one of the only things that would stop him from crying through colic, teething and crankiness (and for that reason it is also one of my favorite shows of all time). Whenever it came on, he would happily switch his full focus to the three lively puppets and their garage band full of every instrument under the sun. I always found it ironic that he seemed to dislike music so much after the way he would light up when that show came on. But, as it turns out, there is a major difference between listening to music and making music, and when my son discovered this his entire world opened up.

My son is now 16 years old and has since taught himself to play the piano. We have an electric keyboard in the garage and when he is in there practicing, I feel like I’m in the lobby of a fancy hotel. I cannot believe this is the same child who used to beg me to drive in silence because the radio annoyed him so much. It turns out he simply isn’t a fan of the stuff everyone else is listening to. Eventually he found his sound, and I took him to his first concert last year to see a progressive band called Polyphia, whose songs are electric and mostly lyric-free –and by far his favorite to practice on the guitar.

I cannot express enough how badly I wish we had tried music sooner. I don’t know that it would have saved him from those dark times, but it definitely would have helped. Ever since he started playing, he’s gained a ton of confidence and purpose. His demeanor has shifted from sad and angry all the time to that of a typical teenage boy. While he still has his moments, the dark times are over. And if they ever return, at least he’s equipped to fight them off, one guitar string at a time.

Rockland/Bergen Parent - October 2024

STORIES & COLUMNS

FAMILY

Feeling Like Fall

GET IN TOUCH

BELLE DA COSTA GREENE

A LIBRARIAN’S LEGACY

OCTOBER ��, ���� THROUGH MAY �, ����

5 Ways to Help Kids Understand PoLitiCS

Mini Elections

Kid-Friendly Newspapers

Write Letters

Volunteer Work

Student Councils

tech Is Your Child Using AI for Homework?

Navigating a new digital world

Is Your Child is Using It?

Kindergarten Play Day

BLUE ROCK SCHOOL

Your Guide to Picking a Middle or High School

Public Schools

Charter Schools

Private Schools

Boarding Schools

Catholic Schools

Jewish Schools

Reasons to Attend a Middle and High School Open House

Surgeon General Shares New Warning: Parents Are Too Stressed Out!

What Parents and Caregivers Can Do

A mental health expert weighs in

Haunted Houses

Scary and not-so-scary ones in NYC, NJ and Westchester

Westchester

New Jersey

Farm

Hayride of Horrors and Haunted House

Night of Terror at Creamy Acre Farms

Pumpkin Picking!

Dykeman Farms

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard

Fall/Winter Road Trips For Families

Discover Central Massachusetts

Explore MetroWest Boston

North Central Massachusetts

Rhode Island

Fall/Winter Experiences

INTER_ Art Experience

ide in partnership with

Changing Seasons with LaTonya Yvette

A beloved Brooklyn storyteller on turning the page and finally finding home

calendar

ROCKLAND

Nyack Famous Street Fair

BERGEN

2nd Annual Fall Food Truck

Tenafly Fall Fest

How Music Saved My Son’s Life

OCTOBER ��, �� THROUGH MAY �, ��