New York Family - December 2023 by Schneps Media Digital Editions

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It's a New York Life Leah Wiseman Fink on family, community, mom-connecting, and of course — pizza!

Navigating Political Conversations with Your Kids

Snowy Escapes

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Rediscover Magic of the Holidays with Cirque du Soleil

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contents

December 2023

NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 40

pg. 42 pg. 22

pg. 36

FEATURES

Stories & columns

12 | Parenting Talking to your kids about politics

6 | Editor’s Letter

24 | Travel Enjoying Cape Cod year-round 30 | Holiday Gifts Gift guide for kids and family from baby to teen years 36 | Cover Leah Wiseman Fink on family, community, mom-connecting, and pizza

8 | Ask the Expert I think my child may be a bully

pg. 30

Family fun 40 | Calendar All the fun events and activities for December

14 | Mom Hacks A guide for NYC breastfeeding moms 16 | Family Day Out Polar Express & Christmas train rides 18 | Family Day Out Spike Lee Brooklyn Museum exhibit 20 | Family Fun Cut-your-own Christmas tree farms 22 | Family Fun Family-friendly ski resorts and spots 26 | Family Fun Holiday break and winter bucket list 42 | Mom Stories A writer on unlocking her family secrets in time for the holidays

4 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

on the Cover Photo: Yumi Matsuo | yumimatsuo.com Hair & Makeup: Buffy Hernandez | buffysaintmarie.com Cover author: Cris Pearlstein | crispearlstein.com Produced by: Donna Duarte-Ladd

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Editor’s Note

NewYorkFamily.com

Nina Gallo Photography

Festive New York The year is coming to a close, and it has truly whoosh by. Before we get tangled up in tinsel, it is time to start planning how to enjoy the most festive time in New York. Check out our picks for a Polar Express Train Adventure (page 16), Family-friendly Ski Resorts and Spots (page 14), our Winter Bucket List (page 26), and Holiday Fun (page 28). Remember to check out our Holiday Toy & Family Gift Guide (page 30) that features some of our curated picks; for more ideas, visit newyorkfamily.com for mom, dad,

family, hostess (and more) gifts. While the New Year is fast approaching, it is also an election year; we have some resources and tips on Talking to your Kids about Politics (page 12). Lastly, Leadership Coach Leah Wiseman Fink shares on supporting moms, supporting your Jewish friends, community, momconnecting, and just typing out this wordmakes me hungry- PIZZA! Happy Holidays! Donna

Publisher: Clifford Luster Executive Director: Donna Duarte-Ladd Associate Publisher: Erin Brof Advertising Director: Stacie Goldberg Deputy Editor: Jeannine Cintron Digital Editor: Kaitlyn Riggio Events Manager: Shara Levine Reporter: Barbara Russo Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Partnership Managers: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Suzanne Cirigliano, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli Marketing & Strategy Director: Rosalia Bobé Sales & Marketing assistant: Elana Cantor Marketing Assistant: Tilejah Gilead Media Sales Assistant: Anastasia Aktipis Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal Graphic Designers: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti Editors at large: Serena Norr, Cris Pearlstein Editorial Contributors: Jana Beauchamp, Mia Salas Editorial Interns: Marnie Dunbar

Contact Information

ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554 Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com Circulation: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com Address: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 1 MetroTech Center North, Third Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201

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New York Family has been awarded the PMA Gold Award for Excellence in Editorial and the Silver Award for Excellence in Design.

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

6 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

New York Family is published monthly by Queens Family Media, LLC. Reproduction of New York Family Media in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. ©2023 Queens Family Media, LLC

December 2023 | New York Family

ask the expert

I Think My Child Might Be a Bully BY KaitlYn Riggio

arents think the world of their children, and many would love to think they can do no wrong. No parent wants to be told their child is a bully. Getting this information can turn a parent’s world upside down, and your first instinct may be to react with denial or shame. We sat down with therapist Jennifer Kelman from JustAnswer to talk about how parents can recognize if their child is bullying others and what they should do about it. What should parents do when confronted with the possibility that their child is a bully? When parents realize that their child may be a bully, the most important thing for them to do is listen and get a full understanding of what’s going on. “A lot of times parents run into problems in terms of dealing with the issue because they’re in such disbelief,” Kelman says. “They feel shame, so they would prefer to just pretend it doesn’t exist, let it go away, not really tackle the issue, which, of course, doesn’t help the child.” It may be shocking to learn that your child is bullying someone, but once the initial shock and disbelief wear off, it’s important to listen to perspectives from both your child as well as the person informing you of your child’s behavior. Kelman also says that while our initial instinct is to vilify bullies, parents should resist that urge, because doing that overlooks the idea that that child might be suffering. “What I like to think about is oftentimes the loudest in the room is the one that’s suffering the most,” Kelman says. “Rather than quickly vilifying the behavior of that child, really check in with your child to see what might be going on for them.” Why do children bully? It’s important to look for the root cause behind a child’s bullying behavior because “it’s not by accident that someone just tries to assert power over others,” Kelman says. Many times, bullying behavior stems from feeling powerless. For example, a child might be trying to make their way into a popular social

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group or maintain their social status and use bullying behaviors as a way to gain standing. It’s also important to examine what’s going on in the child’s family unit. If there’s conflict in a child’s family unit, they may be modeling behaviors that they’re seeing at home or reacting to that conflict by lashing out instead of talking about what they’re feeling. In other cases, bullying behavior might be linked to a traumatic event or sudden change in the child’s life, like the loss of a loved one or moving.

Looking at possible root causes for bullying behaviors is the most effective way to stop those behaviors. “The best way to help both the victim and the bully is to understand what might be the impetus for the bullying behavior,” Kelman says. What are some signs that might indicate bullying behavior that parents should look out for? In the same way that listening to your

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ask the Expert

child is the key to stopping bullying behavior, listening to your child is the key to recognizing patterns that could indicate potential bullying behavior before it gets out of control. “Listen to how your child is talking about other students at school,” Kelman says. “Check in with your child to see how school is going, how they’re connecting to others.” When your children are at home, take note of how they handle frustrating moments. Does your child handle frustrating moments with aggression, or are they able to communicate how they’re feeling verbally? Listening to your child and looking at what’s going on in their life is a crucial part of understanding their behavior, especially when bullying is involved. If initial attempts to stop bullying behavior don’t work, what do next steps look like? Sometimes, bullying behaviors continue, even after parents have attempted to handle it themselves. Parents should approach

10 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

“It’s not by accident that someone just tries to assert power over others.” receiving additional help with an open mind. “Let that shame and embarrassment fall by the wayside so that you can help your child better,” Kelman says. This additional help can look like resources from the school, like guidance counselors, or supportive psychotherapy to more effectively figure out the cause of the bullying behavior. What can parents do to instill values like empathy and respect to stop bullying behaviors before they start? Parents should start by looking at themselves and evaluating what kind of example they’re setting for their children at home in terms of behavior. “Look inward to see how you respond to things,” Kelman says. “Empathy can’t generally be taught, but it can be modeled.”

Children tend to learn modeled lessons more effectively than verbal lessons. “If they witness a parent modeling good behavior and empathy, the chances are better for that child to respond to situations that are frustrating in the same manner,” Kelman says. It’s also important to remember that children don’t usually have the same skills to handle frustrations that adults do. Be prepared to help them along the way: ask them how they’re feeling and how they can handle a problem they’re facing. This can work for practicing empathy, too. Challenge them to put themselves in others’ shoes and think about what they’re feeling. “Giving the child the ability to put themselves in the place of another person can certainly help,” Kelman says. Listening to children is the key to setting them up for success. “It’s just not by accident that someone needs to wield all that type of power and do it in a bad way,” Kelman says. “And remember, the loudest in the room is usually the one suffering the most.”

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parenting

Talking to Your Kids About Politics By Mia SalaS

here is a lot going on in the world and with the election year coming up we are about to be inundated (even more than usual) with politics. Talking to your kids about politics isn’t easy. It’s hard to explain very large, complicated concepts in a way that your children will understand and absorb. But it’s nonetheless important to teach them about the world around us– the good and bad, the resolutions and conflicts. With the 2024 presidential election coming up, it’s about time to chat with your kiddos about what to expect. So how exactly do you explain politics to your children? Read on for a few tips and tricks! Read books Picture books are a great way to teach kids political concepts and conflicts. Here are some books to try: Vote by Eileen Christelow: Your kids will learn how democracy works via this fun picture book all about voting. Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio: Grace embarks on her journey to be the first ever female president. This is a great book for young girls to be inspired and learn more about the electoral system. Just Help! How to Build a Better World

12 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

by Sonia Sotomayer: In a story inspired by her own family’s desire to help others, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor takes young readers on a journey through a neighborhood where everyone helps each other to build a better world for themselves and their community. Watch TV shows and movies Shows and movies are another immersive way to teach politics. Try out these: PBS Crash Course: Online episodes that teach kids about democracy, economy and how our judicial system works. Well-Versed: Not out yet, but stay tuned for Jill Biden’s new show with Nickelodeon that will teach kids all about civics! Visit museums Museums are a fun, interactive way for kids to learn about history and understand more about our government today. Here are some of our favorite NYC museums: American Museum of Natural History: Although not primarily focused on politics, this museum is loaded with American history. See a range of exhibits or join one of the children & family workshops. National Immigration Museum: Teach your kids about American immigration through a collection of photos, heirlooms and historical records.

More Tips Avoid making them choose a side: The pressure to pick one side can feel overwhelming, especially for little ones. Do your best to talk about the issues, not the contrasting opinions about them. This will also help your kids develop their own opinion on the subject. Let them ask questions: It’s natural for kids to have a lot of questions about politics, and you might not have all the answers. That’s okay! Still keep the floor open for their questions so they feel heard. Curiosity is something we all strive to encourage as parents, even when the answers aren’t as clear. Use real life examples: Examples help ground your kids in things they already know, making it easier to explain political concepts. Even explaining to them that American women weren’t allowed to vote until 1920. Think about scenarios they encounter day-to-day and apply them to the issues at hand. Bring your kids to the polls: Okay, we know, the lines can be long. But if possible there’s nothing like experiencing politics right in front of your eyes and bringing your kids along with you to vote is an educational experience in itself by showing them what the the process looks like.

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mom hacks

A Guide to Breastfeeding for NYC Moms Finding support and resources By Marina DunBar

verybody knows that motherhood is a full-time job. Whether you’re working from home or are out and about in the city, we know that taking care of your young children will always be a priority. We also know that babies require a special kind of care that isn’t always made as convenient as it should be. For those of you who are currently or will be breastfeeding in the near future, we’ve compiled a guide of everything you need to know as a nursing mother in NYC. PUMP Act If you’re a working nursing mother, you’ve probably heard of the PUMP Act. This 2022 law provided several updates to the Break Time for Nursing Mothers law, which has required since 2010 that employers nationwide provide reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space for lactating employees to pump milk during their workday. The PUMP Act almost completely closes the coverage gap that left 1 in 4 women of childbearing age without federal protection of their right to break time and a private space to pump during the workday. It expands the legal right to receive pumping breaks and private space to nearly 9 million more workers, including teachers, farmworkers, and many others. It also allows an employee to file a lawsuit against an employer that violates the law. Workplace Rights In addition to the PUMP Act, New York has protections for breastfeeding moms. In NYC, all employers are required by law to allow parents reasonable time and space to pump or express breast milk for at least three years after they give birth. A lactation space must be a sanitary, private place other than a restroom. It should

14 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

include an electrical outlet, a chair, a surface on which to place a breast pump and other personal items, and nearby access to running water. Employers with at least four employees must have a clear and accessible workplace lactation policy that describes accommodations and how employees can request them. They must also provide a refrigerator for employees to store breast milk. Nursing in Public New York State law allows people to breastfeed in any public place. This right exists regardless of whether or not the breast’s nipple is covered during breastfeeding.

Still, many mothers are hesitant to breastfeed in public, even with the law on their side. A social stigma still, unfortunately, exists against public nursing that can make a mom feel self-conscious when publicly feeding their baby. But as more and more moms get comfortable with public nursing, the stigma starts to ease. Stephanie Sosnowski, the treasurer and acting corresponding secretary of the New York Statewide Breastfeeding Coalition, says, in her opinion, the social stigma on breastfeeding in public appears to be decreasing. “With more and more mothers choosing to directly breastfeed or chestfeed or pump, mothers seem to be more comfortable being

out and about and feeding their babies,” Sosnowski says. “And there doesn’t seem to be as much ‘mommy bashing’ if she chooses to formula feed, for whatever her reasons may be.” But if you still prefer privacy, know that there are several options for private lactation spaces in the city. For example, Mamava Pods can be found sprinkled throughout NYC, including at the Bronx Zoo, JFK Airport, and various museums. If you are really one to plan ahead, a mobile locator app can be found at mamava.com/mobile-app. Back in 2016, the DeBlasio administration took steps to make the city more friendly to nursing mothers. Many government-affiliated buildings became equipped with lactation rooms, such as buildings belonging to the Human Resources Administration, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Administration for Children’s Services. A more comprehensive list can be found at NYC gov. Add the keywords community, lactation, and spaces.

“With more and more mothers choosing to directly breastfeed or chestfeed or pump, mothers seem to be more comfortable being out and about and feeding their babies.” Support for Nursing Moms There are many support groups in NYC for breastfeeding mothers. La Leche League Of New York has several support groups throughout the state,

including multiple in NYC. These groups provide education and information to nursing mothers and are open to the public. Sosnowski says these groups can provide much-needed community and support for new mothers when they begin their breastfeeding journey. “Getting used to nursing in public when you are with other new mothers going through the same experience can make it easier when they are out somewhere else on their own,” Sosnowski says. To find a group nearest you, visit the LLL of New York lllny.org/find-a-leader. There are also countless lactation consultants available in the city. These are licensed breastfeeding experts who can both advise you on the best breastfeeding practices and connect you to a nursing support group best suited for your needs. To find a lactation consultant, visit the New York Lactation Consultant Association at nylca.org/help. You have the option to search through available consultants by both location and accepted insurance.

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December 2023 | New York Family

Family Day out

Christmas Train Rides By BarBara russo

his holiday season, hop on a holiday train ride or polar express train in New York City or nearby and head into a magical winter wonderland of snow, garland, lights and holiday cheer. These whimsical train or trolley rides are the perfect trek to put your family into the spirit of the season. There are many Polar Express-inspired train and trolley rides planned in New York City and nearby this winter. Most feature an hour-long journey complete with live entertainment, hot cocoa, festive snacks and more, all en route to meet Santa at the North Pole. While many holiday train rides are heavily inspired by “The Polar Express,” a classic Christmas tale written by Chris Van Allsburg, other excursions have added their own unique elements of holiday fun. Either way, a holiday ride to the North Pole is sure to delight kids – and adults! – of all ages. So book your ticket, get on board for fun and immerse yourself in the holiday joy! Be sure to call or check each train’s website for specific boarding instructions. Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides In NYC North Pole Express 2023 topviewnyc.com Where: 42 Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Manhattan When: Until Jan. 1, check website for times Price: Tickets start at $60; $56, child 212-664-0300 Ready for a festive NYC holiday adventure? Top View Sightseeing is back with a festive spin on its sight-seeing tours. Take the North Pole Express to re-live a magical childhood Christmas experience. This double-decker trolley travels through the city as passengers enjoy caroling, meeting Santa, storytelling and lots of holiday-themed activities for kids. Ride through the city to see beautiful light displays that are the signature of the season. Standard and enhanced packages available. (A Holiday Lights Tour is also available starting Nov. 12.) Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides In Ulster County Catskill Mountain Railroad Polar Express

16 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

Polar Express Whippany

catskillmountainrailroad.com/event/the-polarexpress When: 55 Kingston Plaza Rd., Kingston, NY When: Now until Dec. 29, various times Price: Tickets start at $44; $34, child 845-332-4854 Passengers will relive this classic story as they enjoy a magical trip to the North Pole. You’ll be served hot chocolate and a cookie. Each passenger will get a keepsake sleigh bell to take home. Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides In Long Island The Polar Express Trolley Ride northforktrolley.com/polarexpress Where: 96 Main Rd., Riverhead, NY When: Until Dec. 23 on select dates. Hours vary. Check the website for the full schedule. Price: Check the website. 631-369-3031 Hop on a trolley and enjoy the magic and beauty of Christmas as you relive the enchanting tale of The Polar Express. Santa and his helpers are on board the whole time to greet passengers and give them the first gift of Christmas before characters lead festive onboard entertainment. Lots of activities for kids are part of the fun, and each child will receive a keepsake sleigh bell to take home (reminiscent of the classic tale). Visit the online gift shop where you can purchase gifts after booking your tickets. Staff will have the gifts ready for you when boarding. Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides In New Jersey Polar Express Whippany whippanythepolarexpressride.com Where: 1 Railroad Plaza Whippany, NJ When: Until Dec. 30; various times. Price: Tickets start at $55; $48, children ages

2-11 973-419-6255 Get whisked away to a magical land on a one-hour train ride to the North Pole. The fun begins as soon as you board. Car hosts work their way through the cars to punch your golden ticket before serving delicious hot chocolate and shortbread cookies. Throughout the trip, there’s a reading of the classic story, caroling and other festive onboard entertainment. Passengers take home a keepsake sleigh bell reminiscent of the story. Value, standard and premium packages are available. The Polar Express In Phillipsburg 877trainride.com/polarexpress.htm Where: 38 Market St., Phillipsburg, NJ When: Check the schedule online. Price: $48; $38, child 877-872-4674 Board the Polar Express at the Delaware River Railroad Excursions. The experience is set to the music of the motion picture version of The Polar Express. Passengers will be treated to hot chocolate, cookies, live entertainment and more. Santa boards the train, too. Each child receives a bell. North Pole Express blackriverrailroad.com/directions Where: 80 Stangl Rd., Flemington When: Until Dec. 30, various times Price: Tickets start at $38.99 908-782-6622 The Santa Express features lots of holiday fun. Passengers can take a photo with a 6-foot-tall wreath at North Pole Station. Passengers will meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on board the train. Kids receive a sleigh bell gift to take home. Various ticket packages are available.

New York FamilY partNer

‘Twas the Night Before… Spectacle by Cirque du Soleil swings into NYC this holiday season

‘t

was the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil is taking over The Theater at Madison Square Garden in NYC for a holiday spectacle like no other. For 28 performances from December 7th to December 28th, audiences can immerse themselves in the magic of the season. ‘Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil promises to spark holiday joy and lasting memories for audiences of all ages. Drawing inspiration from memorable lines of the cherished poem, A Visit from Saint Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore, this performance tells the heartwarming story of a disillusioned young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays. With lovable characters, impressive acrobatics, and a re-invented holiday

soundtrack that breathes new life into holiday classics, this dazzling production offers an enchanting blend of heart, cheer, and unparalleled creativity. After all, it was conceived and directed by none other than Senior Artistic Director James Hadley

of Cirque du Soleil, whose impressive 25year career in circus productions and live theater shines through in every moment. With something for everyone in the family to enjoy, ‘Twas the Night Before… is the perfect show to introduce the next generation of theatergoers to the incredible world of Cirque du Soleil. Whether you’re 5, 50, or 95, you’re sure to be wowed by this unforgettable experience! Be part of the magic this holiday at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. ‘Twas the Night Before… is a journey into a winter wonderland that you won’t want to miss. Tickets start at $46 and can be purchased online at www.msg. com/cirque or directly at The Madison Square Garden box office. For group bookings of nine or more, reach out to the Group Sales Department at 212-465-6080 or Group.Sales@msg.com. Accessibility services, including companion seats, are available through the Accessibility Services Department at 888-609-7599.

December 2023 | New York Family

family day out

Spike Lee’s Influences Explored at Brooklyn Museum show By Kaitlyn Riggio

earn about the inspiration and driving forces behind a prolific filmmaker and a Brooklyn icon, right in the heart of the borough that gave him his start. “Spike Lee: Creative Sources”, now on view at the Brooklyn Museum through Feb. 4, presents an immersive look at the people, places and ideas that have shaped Lee’s filmmaking and storytelling over the years. It’s also Brooklyn’s first major exhibition on Lee, whose persona has become inseparable from the borough. Visitors will learn about Lee’s filmmaking through an installation of objects essential to his creative process. The exhibition shows connections between people, places and ideas and Lee’s works. The exhibition is organized into seven thematic sections: Black American history and culture, Brooklyn, sports, music, cinema history and family. Each section features objects that have inspired Lee (including historical photographs, costumes, film memorabilia, first-edition books and more) as well as clips from his groundbreaking films. Organized by curator Kimberli Gant, “Spike Lee: Creative Sources” gives visitors a new way to look at how Lee’s lifelong personal interests have influenced his productions. “By making Lee’s collection accessible to the public, this showcase celebrates his legacy while honoring his deep connection to Brooklyn, a place that has been an integral part of his storytelling,” Gant said in a press release. The exhibition showcases not only how Brooklyn has influenced Lee in his productions, but also how Brooklyn has cemented itself as part of the broader culture over the years. In addition to Lee’s film studio, 40 Acres and a Mule, being located in Brooklyn, many of the artists featured in the exhibit have come

18 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

Jamel Shabazz/Brooklyn Museum

through Brooklyn at some point, Gant says. “Brooklyn is a part of the world. It’s an international locale, people come here from all over the globe, it’s a sister city to so many other cities across the globe,” Gant said in an interview. “There is both a direct and indirect presence.” Gant says she hopes that visitors feel the full range of emotions explored throughout the exhibition as they work their way through. “A lot of the material can be heavy, but

you see images of family, of joy, of dance, of fun,” Gant says. “Even if the object you’re looking at in the moment is heavy, you can also feel excited as well. You don’t have to feel just any one thing.” “Spike Lee: Creative Sources” is a mustsee for New York City natives and film fans of all ages. Boroklyn Museum, Morris A. and Meyer Schapiro Wing and Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Gallery, 5th Floor

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December 2023 | New York Family

family fun

Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms Near NYC

f cutting your own tree is a family tradition (new or old!), check out this guide to Christmas tree farms near NYC! Bonus: These farms are all within a 1½-hour drive from Manhattan. Each farm has a selection of live Christmas trees and allows you to pick your own tree from its natural setting, cut it down, and cart it home. Species of Christmas trees you can buy include beautiful spruces and firs, and they’re all available at these local farms in a range of sizes sure to fit any home. Fraser firs, known for having that classic, full Christmas tree shape, tend to be one of the most popular trees to buy this time of year. Most Christmas tree farms in the New York City area are slated to open Thanksgiving weekend, but it’s a good idea to call to confirm dates and availability before visiting. Cut Your Own Tree in Westchester County, NY Stuart’s Farm 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs 914-245-2784 Hours: Season opens late November. Price: Call for information Head north to Westchester to visit this nearby farm to choose your tree. There’s an on-site bakery that has hot and cold cider, fruit pies, fresh apple cider doughnuts, jams, and jellies. Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights 914-245-5111 Hours: Nov. 25 to mid-December, WednesdayMonday, 10am-4:30pm. Reservations required between Nov. 25 and Dec. 1. Price: Call for information This cut-your-own Christmas tree farm offers Douglas and Fraser fir trees, as well as some pre-cut Fraser firs. Enjoy a farm market, gift shop, and bakery at this Westchester Christmas tree farm near NYC. Customers get a free cup of hot apple cider with every tree purchase. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Putnam County, NY Cockburn Farm 1611 Route 9, Garrison

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845-424-3574 Hours: Black Friday Nov. 24 through Christmas Eve Dec. 24, 9am-5pm. Price: $75 and up, depending on tree Bring your family to this popular Putnam County farm to cut-your-own Christmas tree. Choose from a variety of firs that range in size from 3 feet and taller. Hand saws are available to borrow. Handmade wreaths and grave blankets are for sale. Santa is sometimes on-site, but check his schedule on the website. Christmas Tree Farms in Orange County Emmerich Tree Farm 101 Sleepy Valley Road, Warwick 845-986-0151 Hours: Weekends beginning Friday, Nov. 24 from 9am-3:30pm by reservation only. Price: Call for information; $40 deposit required when making reservation, which will go toward

the purchase of your tree Free trimming, drilling, shaking, and baling. This year, the farm is offering more retail items for sale, including local merino wool yarn, home-made wood crafts, ornaments and more. Manza Family Farm 730 Route 211, Montgomery 845-692-4364 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10am-5pm, FridaySunday; 10am-6pm. Price: Pre-cut trees $35 and up; Cut your own tree $70. Roping available. Pre-cut trees and wreaths for sale; outdoor gift shop on premises. Bring the whole family! Stone Oak Farm 207 Stony Bar Road, Slate Hill 845-355-4751

Hours: Weekends, beginning Saturday Nov. 25 – Sunday Dec. 12. 10am to Dusk. Price: $70 for trees up to 10ft. $5 extra for each additional foot. This cut-your-own Christmas tree farm in Orange County offers more than 8 acres of spruce and fir trees of all sizes.Staff will bundle your tree into netting for your trip home for a $5 charge. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Fairfield County, CT Jones Family Farm 606 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Shelton 203-929-8425 Hours: Nov. 18-Dec. 23, daily (except Thanksgiving Day), 9am-5:30pm. To harvest your own tree, arrive by 4pm. Reservations are required on most weekends. Check the website for more information. Price: Prices vary depending on size of the tree. Twine and tree baling services available. Holiday decorations and traditional crafts and ornaments for sale. Refreshments available. Leashed dogs are welcome during Christmas time, though they are not allowed in all areas. Maple Row Farm 555 North Park Avenue, Easton 203-261-9577 Hours: Nov. 18-Dec. 23, daily, 9am-4:30pm. Price: $128 on weekends for pre-cut trees. $12 off on weekdays. Cut-your-own and pre-cut trees available at this Connecticut farm. Tree baling and assistance provided. Saws are provided or bring your own (no chainsaws allowed). Wreaths, roping, and tree stands available. Holiday accessories are for sale. Paproski’s Castle Hill Farm 25 Sugar Lane, Newtown 203-426-5487 Hours: Tree season is Nov. 26-Dec. 23. Weekdays by appointment (pre-cut only), Saturday 9 am to 4:30 pm, Sunday 9 am to 3:30 pm. Price: Cut-your-own trees start at approximately $80. Cash or check only. Staff will provide assistance in wrapping and tying your tree to your car. Also offers pre-cut trees and handmade wreaths. New clearing section with tagged trees, allowing you to select your tree in advance. Fairview Tree Farm 2 Sawmill City Road, Shelton 203-944-9090 Hours: Nov. 25-Dec. 18, Friday to Sunday,

Tree Farm Tips

Here are a few good tips to keep in mind when choosing a tree: • Walking around a tree farm is fun, so take in the trees and find a tree that works with your home or apartment aesthetic. • Since you are cutting a tree, it’s pretty fresh, but make sure it has vibrant green needles that aren’t falling off. • Tree size matters, especially if you live in a small space. Be sure to choose a tree that will fit comfortably in your abode.

9am-5pm. Prices: Call for information Cut your own Christmas tree at this Fairfield County Christmas tree farm. The farm is also known for its seasoned firewood, great for wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in New Jersey Barclay’s Christmas Tree Farm 35 Orchardside Drive, Cranbury 609-799-1855 Hours: Black Friday, Nov. 24-25, and Dec. 3-4. Call for hours. Price: $75-$150 Choose from Douglas, white, and fraser firs, as well as blue and Norway spruces at this New Jersey Christmas tree farm. Saws, rope, and netting are available for free. Simonson Farms 118-260 Dey Road, Cranbury 609-799-0140 Hours: Opening for the season on Black Friday. Check here for detailed hours. Price: $65-$100 Head to this third-generation cut-your-own Christmas tree farm in NJ to choose from pre-cut, choose-and-cut, balled, and burlap trees. Hidden Pond Tree Farm 4 W. Field Road, Mendham 973-865-6362 Hours: Opens daily 8am-5pm. Price: Call for pricing Pre-cut trees are also available. Refreshments available. Free hayrides (weather permitting). Marshmallow roasting around the bonfire. Christmas shop with wreaths, greenery, centerpieces, and other decorations. Cash or checks only. Rolling Green Farm 61 Hacklebarney Road, Long Valley

908-879-7457 Hours: Friday, Nov. 26, 10am-5pm; Nov. 27Dec. 25, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm. Price: All cut-your-own trees $50. Wreaths and other items available for sale in the shop. The farm asks customers not to cut trees that are shorter than 6 feet. Pre-cut trees can be trimmed down. Holiday Tree Farm 44 Augusta Hill Road, Augusta 973-948-7488 Hours: Call for hours. Price: All trees $62 Trees range in size up to 9 feet at this NJ farm. Saws provided. Christmas shop on premises with wreaths and other holiday decorations for sale. No credit or debit cards. Shale Hills Farm 98 Pond School Road, Sussex 973-875-4231 Hours: After Thanksgiving Day: SaturdaySunday, 10am-4pm. Price: All trees $99 Santa will make appearances throughout the day. Christmas movies in the hayloft and a petting zoo full of animals in the barn. Stonerow Tree Farm 242 Wykertown Road, Branchville 973-875-7968 Instagram Hours: Starting Nov. 25, open SaturdaysSundays, 9am-4pm. Price: $65-$75 Spruces and firs available. Saws and twine available. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Evergreen Valley Christmas Tree Farm 77 Jackson Valley Road, Washington 908-835-0557 Hours: Nov. 25-Dec. 23, Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-4pm. Price: Tree prices start at approximately $45; vary by species. Browse thousands of Christmas trees of all kinds, and enjoy a free wagon ride. Hot chocolate available. Assistance provided. Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm 246 County Road 519, Belvidere 908-475-4508 Hours: Starting Black Friday, SaturdaySunday from 8am-4:30pm; Monday-Friday from 10am-4:30pm. Prices: Tree prices start at around $14 per foot for cut-your-own trees. A favorite cut-your-own Christmas tree farm in NJ since 1958, Wyckoff has more than 5,000 trees available. Wreaths, grave blankets, green décor, and more are also for sale. December 2023 | New York Family

family fun

Family-Friendly

Ski Resorts

Planning your winter getaway By BarBara russo

re you looking for a winter getaway? Take a ski trip with your family at these family-friendly ski resorts. There are a ton of ski resorts and ski slopes to choose from, so we rounded up our top picks. Many resorts have gentle slopes and “ski school” for kids and adults, so no prior ski experience is necessary to have winter fun. Pack your bags for your next weekend stay at a ski resort. And we get sometimes you want to ski close to the city or ski in the month of Juneso head to Big SNOW American Dream, 1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. This destination is North America’s first and only real-snow, year-round indoor ski and snowboard resort. It’s the perfect place for your kids to learn to ski in a safe and controlled environment. Smugglers’ Notch 4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Jeffersonville, VT, 05464 For your next family ski trip, head to Smugglers’ Notch, Ski Magazine’s #1 resort for families for the last 20 years! The 78 trails, 8 lifts and the highest vertical drop in Northern Vermont at 2,610 feet is not only a winter wonderland – it is designed to deliver the ultimate ski experience. Smugglers’ is known for offering a wide range of activities suitable for ski and snow fans of all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. This year the resort added a variety of new activities, from mini snowmobile tours to Friday night ski and fondu. They’re also kicking the Apres’ Sport Parties up a notch with local craft beers and live entertainment. The options for family fun are endless, and they include snowshoeing, tubing for both little ones and older kids, crosscountry skiing, swimming, FunZone 2.0, ice skating and an award-winning Snow Sport University. Smugglers’ Notch Resort has been a

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premier winter destination for over 50 years, offering a unique and family-friendly atmosphere that keeps guests coming back year after year. The resort boasts a variety of accommodations, from cozy slopeside condos to spacious mountainside villas. The convenient, cozy, family-style lodgings with fully equipped kitchens and more are perfect for the entire family. TIP: Take advantage of the resort’s winter packages, including ski-and-stay deals. Right now, Smugglers’ is offering an early season lodging package where guests can save an average of $700. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a couples’ retreat or a solo adventure, Smugglers’ Notch Resort has some great packages to choose from. And of course, we all know that kids can go 24/7, so there are activities for everyone such as bingo, karaoke, nightly hot chocolate by the bonfire, fireworks on Thursday night and more. For those tweens who need extra, there is a Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop, Glow Tubing, a Teen Center called The Alley with Virtual Reality quests and Xbox Live, movie night and more. Mount Peter 51 Old Mt. Peter Road, Warwick, NY, 10990 Mount Peter may be the only ski and snowboarding destination initially started (in 1936) by Macy’s Department Store as a ‘showroom’ to sell their ski fashion. Very très chic and New York. As one of the oldest operating

family-operated ski spots in the country, it is a special place for families to visit or discover each winter. Located in Warwick, NY, it is about one hour from NYC — making for a convenient day trip and a great spot to learn to ski or get in a day of skiing, snowboarding or tubing. Known for their free beginner ski and snowboard lessons on weekends and holidays, this is the perfect spot when the kids are ready to ski or for mom or dad to learn the art of skiing or snowboarding. Super family-friendly, this spot consists of a combination of locals, city peeps and tourists worldwide. There is a reason Mount Peter is called New York’s family mountain. Mount Peter features 13 trails for skiing or snowboarding and a 600-foot tubing run. Rates are affordable, which parents will appreciate if bringing a large group. If you don’t own skis, no problem, as there is a daily ski rental barn where you can rent skis, snowboards, poles and helmets. TIP: We suggest heading to the rental shop as soon as you arrive. Grab a bite to eat at Pete’s Pub, which serves up food and hot and cold drinks. Belleayre Mountain 181 Galli Curci Road, Highmount, NY, 12441 Belleayre Mountain’s excellent skiing, reasonable pricing and year-round activities make it one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in Upstate New York.

New York and nearby. Whether you and your family are new to skiing or have some (or a lot!) of experience, this resort has what you need to hit the slopes and have a great time. Hunter has 320 acres of skiable terrain, 67 trails, and 13 lifts. For those who are beginners, Hunter has a learning center for both kids and adults. Check out the website to learn more about what to expect during your first lesson. The resort also has a tubing hill that kids love. At nearly 1,000 feet long, this easy winter-time activity is fun for the whole family. Just glide down the hill, enjoy a “magic carpet” ride back to the top, and then ride again! Hunter Mountain is approximately three hours by car from NYC. If you’ll be staying longer than one day, you can browse many nearby lodging options on the Hunter website.

With a gondola ride, a variety of trails, a snowsports school offering classes for kids, teens and adults, and summer activities like biking, hiking and Belleayre Beach, this resort has something for everyone at almost any time of year. It’s located just over a two-hour drive from NYC. Plattekill Mountain 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury, NY, 12474 Located in the northwestern Catskills, Plattekill Mountain is a different breed of ski resort. This privately owned and operated resort, affectionately called “Platty” by the many ski enthusiasts who visit regularly each year, offers a unique family vibe that visitors love. Skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing fun can all be found on the mountain, but visitors will also find a welcoming atmosphere, plenty of smiles and unique experiences. At just about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the city, it’s a great option for getting in some great skiing and feeling like you found a second home. Gore Mountain 793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek, NY, 12853 Located near the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, Gore Mountain has something for everyone all year round. In the winter months, visitors can ski and snowboard. Come summer and

fall, hiking, downhill mountain biking and disc golf is available. With a variety of beautiful accommodation options and delicious dining choices, the mountain is an all-season resort destination that’s very popular in all of New York and the northeastern United States. It’s well worth the drive of approximately four hours from NYC to get there. Holiday Mountain Ski and Fun Park 99 Holiday Mountain Road, Monticello, NY, 12701 This family fun destination has so much to offer and is one of the leading spots to ski and snowboard in the metro area. Not only can families enjoy fun on the slopes during winter, but there’s a fun park with lots of activities available in summer, too. Ski enthusiasts will enjoy Holiday Mountain’s six trails serviced by two chair lifts. There’s also a new learning center serviced by its own “magic carpet” conveyor lift for beginners and new snowmaking for the 202324 ski season. Holiday Mountain is about two hours away from NYC by car. If you plan on staying in the Monticello area for a while, check out the website for nearby hotels and resorts. Hunter Mountain 64 Klein Ave., Hunter, NY, 12450 Hunter Mountain is another great option when it comes to family-friendly ski resorts in

Rocking Horse Ranch 600 State Route 44/55, Highland, NY, 12528 There’s something for everyone in the family at this fun resort. Snow tubing, skiing, ice skating and more make for an exciting family getaway this winter. This resort is great for anyone who is new to skiing. Friendly instructors get new skiers of all ages off to a good start. Snow tubing lanes are 500 feet long and provide lots of winter-time fun. Book your stay online. Located approximately two hours from NYC, the resort’s all-inclusive family adventure includes all meals, accommodations, activities and nightly entertainment. Rates are available on the website. Stowe Mountain Resort 5781 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT, 05672 Get ready for an alpine adventure at beautiful Stowe, one of the most popular ski areas in Vermont. The resort is a four-season destination, but come winter, skiing takes center stage. Stowe Mountain Resort is surrounded by the majestic Mount Mansfield–the highest peak in Vermont–and Spruce Peak. Visitors can enjoy 485 acres of skiable terrain, 12 lifts, and 116 trails. The Lodge at Spruce Peak is Stowe’s featured lodge. Amenities include a spa, fitness center, an all-season heated pool, and several dining outlets. There’s plenty of fun to be had, too, including ice skating, an Adventure Center with an indoor climbing wall, shopping and more. Discover more on the website. December 2023 | New York Family

Travel

Enjoy Cape Cod All Year at the historic Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club in Brewster By Serena norr

any travel destinations are specifically known as fun escapes during the warmer months, such as Cape Cod—a hookshaped peninsula in Massachusetts. Many New Yorkers know “the Cape,” as it is commonly called. We flock there for the renowned beaches and more. However, during a recent visit this fall, I was pleasantly surprised to discover many fun things to do and experience all year long. This includes a mix of outdoor and indoor attractions, including biking, hiking, indoor swimming, walking on the beach, exploring local towns, enjoying delicious restaurants, and soaking in culture at museums, to name a few options. And in the winter, it is pretty charming- you’ll find numerous holiday celebrations with lovely tree-lighting events, such as at the Nantucket Christmas Stroll or the New England Lobster Pot Christmas Tree in Provincetown. Of course the spring/summer is all about enjoying local beaches (there are approximatel yover 100) and discovering one of its many natural parks. The Cape Made up of 15 uniquely distinct coastal towns, each offers a mix of history, charm, and beauty. This includes 600 miles of coastline and 40 miles of beaches along the CapeCod National Seashore, scenic miles along the historic Route 6A, and the home of the Native Americans, you’ll find something for everyone in the Cape. Getting There Whether you’re planning an off-season jaunt or a seasonal escape, a train ride to Cape Cod can be a bit long so driving or flying are the best options. You can take a road trip which is around five hours from NYC. You can also fly to Boston and rent a car or arrange for transportation or fly to Hynnais (in the summer) for easy access to this special destination. Must-See Experiences for Kids No matter where you are staying on the Cape, you’ll find that you’re within close proximity to numerous attractions. For families adventures, enjoy visits to the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Nickerson State Park, the Pilgrim Monument, the Cape

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Cod Museum of Art, whale watching with the Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises, and the Whydah Pirate Museum, to name a few options. The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History (869 Main St, Brewster, MA 02631;ccmnh.org) is a fun place to learn about Massachusetts’ natural environment. This includes access to their aquarium where you and your kids can see and learn more about the sea creatures that reside in Cape Cod. Incredibly, all Ocean Edge Resort guests receive complimentary admission to their museum during their stay. For art, enjoy viewing pieces from some of the Cape’s finest artists at the Cape Cod Museum ofArt (60 Hope Ln, Dennis, MA 02638; ccmoa.org.) For history, families can visit the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum (1 HighPole Hill Rd, Provincetown, MA 02657; pilgrim-monument.org), which commemorates the landing of the Mayflower or enjoy a day trip whale watching with Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises (269 Millway, Barnstable, MA 02630; whales.net.) Pirate lovers definitely need to check out the Whydah Pirate Museum (674 MA-28, WestYarmouth, MA 02673; discoverpirates.com.) This immersive museum allows kids to learn more about real pirates and treasures as well as see an authentic pirate ship exhibition! Families will also enjoy access to the many natural parks in Cape Cod for camping, hiking, picnics, and day trips. This includes Nickerson State Park, the Shawme-Crowell State Forest, and the Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary. With 1,900 acres, Nickerson State Park (3488 Main St, Brewster, MA 02631; mass. gov/locations/nickerson-state-park) is a fun family destination where you can enjoy hiking, camping, and swimming. This park is linked to the 26-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail where you can spend the day, biking and exploring many naturalwonders. There are also numerous campsites, wooded trials, access to ponds forfishing, and more. The Shawme-Crowell State Forest (Route 130, Sandwich, MA, 02563) is a great option for camping, hiking, and even horseback riding. The Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary(345 Bone Hill Rd, Cummaquid, MA 02637) offers access to 2.5 miles of trails, meadows, and sandy beaches.

Where to Stay Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club History Located in Brewster, Massachusetts, the property was first called Fieldstone Hall, whichwas acquired by Samuel Nickerson, a direct descendant of one of the Cape’s firstsettlers. Following a fire in 1912, the mansion was rebuilt, and remarkably, some of its original architecture and woodwork is still intact, which you can admire at the resort. The Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club offers an opportunity for guests to learn more about its history with a fun and immersive diner experience called ‘Party Like it’s 1889.’(Note: this experience is geared more towards adults). This includes a mansion tour, led by a local historian; croquet lessons; a wine and cocktail reception; a four-course dinner; and the opportunity to stay in the historic mansion. You can also simply walk around the space, taking in its rich history where you will find plaques outlining the timeline of the resort as well as see some of the original wood work in The Great Hall. The Accommodations The property boasts numerous accommodations for families with 342-rooms spread outamongst The Mansion and The Villages. During my stay, I enjoyed some rest and relaxation in the modern and spacious Signature King Guestroom. This room included a spacious couch and coffee table, a large TV, a desk area, a comfy king-sized bed, a massive bathroom, an expansive bathroom with a second sink, a mini fridge, and much more. This room was within minutes from the main area of the Mansion

where I enjoyed easy access to the gym/pool, the Ocean Terrace Restaurant, Bayzo’s Pub, and walks to the resort’s private beach. Additionally, they have larger accommodations for families such as their Presidential Bay Collection Villas with two-three bedrooms; a kitchenette; a living room; washer and dryer; and more. These accommodations have a more “homey” feel that would be a great option for families (or multiple families) staying together. The Villages, located near the golf course, also boast ample sizing options with two-three bedrooms; a full-sized kitchenette; washer and dryer; and more. Additionally, they also have some select pet-friendly villas should you be traveling with your four-legged pal. On-site Attractions There is no shortage of things to do during a stay at the Ocean Edge Resort. If you stay at The Mansion, you’ll love being within walking distance to their beautiful 700foot Bay Pines Private Beach for seasonal swimming; private beach bon-fires; cocktails at their seasonal beach bar; or a morning or evening walk. During my stay, I enjoyed experiencing one of their private beach bon-fires, complete with a cozy fireplace, s’mores, and some incredible sunset views. Additionally, the property has multiple pools such as the year-round (and heated!) Bay Pines Indoor Pool; seasonal Bay Pines Outdoor Pool; Arbor Pool Complex, the resort’s largest outdoor pool with a toddler pool, hot tub and the Shark Bah; and the Fletcher Pool Complex with an indoor pool, outdoorpool, toddler pool, hot tubs, saunas, locker rooms and a snack cabana.

The resort also offers seasonal kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals, nine tennis -courts spread over two tennis complexes, pickleball courts, and bike rentals where you and your family can enjoy access to 26 miles of scenic trails. I loved the biking experience where I soaked in the stunning fall foliage and crisp air as well as enjoyed stops to nearby Orleans, Massachusetts for lunch and some shopping. Should you have time for a mini break, you can also enjoy access to their on-site BeachHouse spa for a massage, facial, wrap, manicure/pedicure, makeup, and more. During my stay, I also enjoyed taking a pickleball lesson. As the fastest growing sport, I knew that pickleball is all the rage but I was clueless how to play. The Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club offers pickleball lessons on their expansive course with a USPTA Certified Instructor. Families simply have to make a reservation to book a lesson and/or time to access the court. Golf fans will love having access to Troon Privé, Brewster’s only 18-hole Nicklaus designed course. Families can enjoy access to this private golf course (and itsimpressive views) with one of the resort’s stay and play packages.Guests can also enjoy access to the course via a simple reservation where they can also book lessonsfor their kids. The facility also hosts fun food and drink experiences such as a jam-making class(which I took during my visit), a seasonal oyster bed tours, a tequila whisky and wine sampling, a holiday mixology workshop, and more. They also have a robust daily activity calendar such as the upcoming Wizarding Weekin February where kids (and avid Harry Potter fans) will enjoy fun activities like wandand cloak-making. Additional activities include live music, wind chime-making, holidaywreath making, trivia night, family movie night, and much more.

Food and Drinks When I wasn’t enjoying numerous activities, I was eating! The location is home to numerous eateries – all of which are open to guests and the public. I enjoyed breakfast and dinner in The Roscommon Room. As an extension of their seasonal restaurant, Ocean Terrace, I loved dining in this historic room with expansive views from its bay window and cozy interiors such as a fireplace and wooden bar. Breakfast options were plentiful with avocado toast, smoked salmon board, buttermilk pancakes, a seasonal fruit platter and more. Dinner includes local oysters, seasonal mezze plates, seasonal soups, chicken dishes, seafood, a fun twist on mac and cheese, and more. Everythingwas delicious, fresh, and enjoyable. There are also numerous nearby off-site dining experiences for families to enjoy such as the Hot Chocolate Sparrow (5 Old Colony Way, Orleans, MA 02653; hotchocolatesparrow.com) and La Bella Vita Kitchen and Bar in nearby Orleans. The Hot Chocolate Sparrow was a fun and lively spot for lunch with salads, sandwiches, and soups as well as coffee drinks, desserts, ice cream, and candy. Kids love the candy station where you’ll find homemade fudge, chocolate bark, and a variety of chocolate. More kid favorites include The Flashback Retro Bar and Grille for classic American fare and arcade games (294 Main Street, Hyannis MA 02601, flashback.bar); the 50s-inspired Red Cottage Restaurant (36 Old Bass River Rd, South Dennis, MA 02660;redcottagerestaurant.net); and the Ann & Fran’s is Kitchen for handcrafted breakfast and lunch options (think omelets, pancakes, and egg dishes) (4843 471 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673; annandfrans.com). Resort Location Ocean Edge is located at 2907 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631. For more information, please visit oceanedge.com. December 2023 | New York Family

family fun

Bucket List Winter in NYC

By Jeannine Cintron, Donna DuarteLaDD & Shara Levine

inter in the Big Apple is a real rollercoaster of emotions for us New Yorkers. We can’t help but get all giddy when that first snowflake falls, but boy, do we curse it when we’re schlepping bags of groceries through a snowstorm or, if you’re brave enough, pushing a stroller! But you know what? We’re good at forgiving and forgetting. It’s incredible how quickly our mood improves after sipping a cup of hot cocoa, hearing the kids’ oohs and ahhs as they check out the gorgeous holiday store windows, taking in the dazzling Dyker House lights, or gliding around one of NYC’s awesome ice rinks. So, whether you’re a visitor to the city that never sleeps or a native New Yorker, we’ve got a to-do list that’ll drag you out of your cozy home (or hotel) and help you make the most of winter in the city! Let’s embrace the cold season, New York-style!

6. Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo offers immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns, festive entertainment, seasonal treats, classic holiday music, and more.

7. Visit the Bank of America Winter Village to ice skate, shop, dine, and play! 8. When the snow is in the forecast

this winter, it’s time to bring out your winter boots, warmest coats, and go sledding. A few fun spots Riverside Park (in Manhattan), Fort Greene Park (Brooklyn), and Astoria Park (Queens.)

2. See the lighting of the world’s most giant

menorahs at Grand Army Plaza in Park Slope, Brooklyn, and Midtown, Manhattan, every night of Hanukkah. 3. Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden after

dark to explore the beauty of nature in winter on an enchanting trail featuring over a million dazzling lights 4. Lace up and Check out Glide at Brooklyn

Bridge Park, located at the Emily Warren Roebling Plaza under the Brooklyn Bridge while enjoying the Manhattan skyline. 5. Visit the NYBG’s Holiday Train Show—a

favorite holiday tradition—and see model trains zip through an enchanting display of more than 190 replicas of New York landmarks.

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16. Head to Dyker Heights (between 11th to 13th Avenue or 83rd Avenue to 86th St.) for the gorgeous holiday light displays. 17. Head to the now-open year-round

Governors Island. Rent a bike and sled and enjoy a crisp winter day. 18. Visit one of New York’s many

iconic bookstores like Albertine (972 5th Ave, NY, NY) and Books of Wonder (42 West 17th Street, NY, NY.) 19. Enjoy Central Park and visit the Central

9. Take your skater to a skate park -open all

year round but pass during a snow storm or when iced for safety 10. Satisfy your sweet tooth at a hot chocolate spot in New York like Max Brenner in Manhattan or the Chocolate Room in Brooklyn.

1. Ice Skate under the Christmas

Tree at Rockefeller Center.

Macy’s, Saks, and Bloomingdales.

11. Admire the stunning views of the city, all lit up for the holiday season from one of NYC’s observation decks like The Empire State Building.

Park Carousel ( located mid-park at 65th Street) and Zoo (East Side between 63rd and 66th); both are open during winter when weather permits. 20. Tour the Grand Central Terminal. Check

out the oak leaves and acorn architectural details, the zodiac ceiling in the main concourse, and the famed glass clock. 21. Show Broadway love and support, and

check out a matinee the kids will love and treasure for years to come.

12. Visit the American Museum of Natural

22. Stay warm on a cold day and visit the

History (AMNH) to see their famous 13-foot Origami Holiday Tree, featuring over 1,000 intricately designed origami models. ‘

iconic Flagship New York Public Library to check out books and the Beaux-Arts architecture building.

13. Hop aboard the Staten Island

23. Make a day of it and head to Ellis Island

Ferry (for free!) and catch a showing of the annual Christmas Show at the historic St. George Theater.

to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. Take a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

14. Visit The Oculus, the central epicenter

24. Take the kids to the Harry Potter Store

of the World Trade Center and a modern architecture of beauty that will have you oohing and aahh-ing

(935 Broadway) and thoroughly enjoy an hour or two of magical adventure and fun.

15. Check out the elaborate holiday window

displays outside department stores like

25. Take advantage of the Culture Pass (culturepass.nyc) and visit the amazing participating institutions for free admission.

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family day out

Festive Holiday Fun

t’s December, meaning it’s time for New York to light up for the holidays. So dress warmly, grab some hot cocoa, and celebrate. We are excited to share the events our excellent partners are holding this season, so pack up the family and enjoy all that New York has to offer! Christmas Spectacular Radio City Music Hall, NY, NY rockettes.com/christmas Make this holiday season truly unforgettable. See the Rockettes live in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, which will be happening all of December. Secure your tickets now and begin creating cherished memories. Crafts At The Cathedral 1047 Amsterdam Ave. 112 Street, NYC

845-661-1221 stjohndivine.org/crafts-at-the-cathedral Visit Crafts at the Cathedral of St. John The Divine will return with 85 curated crafts artists from 15 states presenting. Their finest original works in clay, wood, metal, paper, fiber, fashion, blown glass, and mixed media. Show is from Dec 1-3. For tickets and show hours, admission, and directions, visit stjohndivine.org. Legoland Bricktacular 39 Fitzgerald Street, Yonkers, NY 10710 914-775-6015 legolanddiscoverycenter.com/westchester Ho-Ho-Whoa! Budding builders can get in the holiday spirit with LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester’s Holiday Bricktacular event until January 1st, LEGO lovers of all ages can witness each attraction transform into

is now part of

a winter wonderland, full of holiday LEGO creations, merry LEGO experiences and hollyjolly surprises that are sure to delight. Wave Hill Holiday 4900 Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471 Wave Hill Gardens will be dressed for the holidays and host many memorable events to celebrate the season with family and friends, from forest bathing and birding to a Latin social night and evening of transcendent sound. Dec 1-3 is the much-anticipated Artisan Market and Wreath-Making Workshops. Free family programs will be held on select Thursday evenings in December, including a Winter Solstice Celebration on December 21. On Friday nights, adults can dance the night away with instructors from Ailey Extension or enjoy jazz and more. Also, the garden is open for all to come for an evening stroll. Wave Hill is open TuesdaySunday, 10-4:30 every day, with late-night hours for Winter Haven Opening Weekend and select Thursday and Friday evenings throughout the month. Check wavehill.org for event times and further details.

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.

MommyBites.com We can’t wait to see you there! 28 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

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Holiday Gift Guide Check out some of our favorite toys and gifts for kids from age 0 to teenager by Donna Duarte LaDD & Jana beauchamp

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FOR 0�18 MONTHS 1. Cry Babies Crawling Jenna Doll At around 18 months, the toys start going from plushy to something a bit more interactive. With just a push of a button (at the back), this Cry Babies Crawling Jenna doll will crawl across the floor. 18 months, $26.99, Target.com 2. Bebe Fuerte Stack & Count Kettlebell Activity Toy If your baby loves to work out with you, they will adore this soft and stackable ‘kettlebell’ toy. Not only will they learn to stack, which is an important gross motor skill, but they will get to learn the art of pretend play. $14.84, 6 months +, walmart.com.

3. I Love You, Baby – Waterproof Color Changing Magic Bath Book for Babies and Toddlers This compact I Love You, Baby Color Magic Bath Book from Mudpuppy will change into colors when in water, and not dull hues, bright and engaging, which is precisely the book that makes for a fun storytime -slash bath time. $8.49, Amazon.com.

4. LeapFrog ABC’s & Activities Wooden Table Toy Insider (toyinsider.com) knows their toys, and this is one of their top picks for babies. There are touch-sensitive pictures, turning gears, a musical book page and more. $70, Ages 6 months +, target.com.

5. Crawligator Developmental Toy Crawling learning time, but make it fun. This alligator toy will allow your baby to rest on top while learning motor skills and cognitive development by moving their arms and legs, making for fun tummy time and strength building. $90, Ages 4months +, walmart.com.

6. Luxe Bubbles: Apricot + Vanilla Gift Set, Tubby Todd This winter limited edition Apricot + Vanilla Gift Set from one of our favorite brands, Tubby Todd. The set includes an Apricot + Vanilla Hair + Body Wash, Everyday Lotion, and Bubble Bath. $78, Tubbytodd.com 7. Adora Potty Training Plush Set, Twinkle Star This plush seat with three toys, such as a swirly-eyed poop, a laughing pee, and smiling toilet paper which helps to make the learning process of the potty train not so scary. $29.99, Ages 1+, adora.com.

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FOR 18 MONTHS�3 YEARS 1. Pop Out Space Travel: Read, Build, and Play on a Trip to Space This space book will take your little one on a galactic adventure, allowing them to build all the space essentials such as a station, astronaut suit, and more. Recommended reading age 2-4. $7.89, amazon.com. 2. Wooden Racer by Battat This car is designed with a soft seat and a handle to hold onto. The best part is that no assembly is required, so it is ready to go as soon as it arrives. Ages 18 mo +, $40, amazon.com.

3. Melissa & Doug Wooden Work & Play Desktop Activity Board Infant and Toddler Sensory Toy This wooded laptop will let your little one pretend to work; they can type on the keyboard button while checking themselves out on the peekaboo mirror. It is a great sensory toy with texture and sounds when used. Ages 12 months to 2 years, $18, target.com 4. All the Feels Puzzle by Nolja Did you know that puzzles produce dopamine? This All the Feels Puzzle, by fitting pieces with illustrations of emotions like calm, sad, and lonely, helps your little one learn about emotions via these artful illustrated puzzle pieces. $25, nolja.com.

5. Sesame Street Elmo Slide Simply squeeze this adorable Elmo’s right hand to play the “Elmo Says” game and try to follow along. Parents will love that Elmo is interactive, speaks and sings in English or Spanish, has two ways to play and he brings big smiles while getting everyone up and dancing. Ages 2+,$39.97 , amazon.com.

6. This Picnic Spinner Game Family board games are fun but only sometimes geared for the pre-k set. This Picnic Spinner Game is fun to play and easy and comprises 28 die-cut sturdy food, silverware and plate pieces, and a colorful tablecloth because it is a picnic! Ages 3 and up. $24, eeBoo.com. 7. Lena by Naturalistas Littleistas Lena This adorable LITTLELISTAS is designed by Purpose Toys, who offer toys in the black and brown community. LITTLELISTAS doll has gorgeous curly hair that she styles with a signature ‘Wear-and-Share’ Gold Crown. Ages 2 Years and Up. $24.99, target.com.

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FOR AGES 4�8 1. Crayola® X Kohl’s 16” Squishy Pillow Kids love squishy pillows, and your kid will love being gifted this colorful Crayola pencil 16” pillow. Whether your child props their room with this colorful piece or uses it as a comfy prop while doing homework, they’ll love this playful pillow. $16-20, kohls.com. 2. The Carpool Karaoke The Mic 2.0 This cool mic and can wirelessly connect the mic to a car radio or portable speaker so they can sing whenever and wherever they may go this holiday season. Plus, families will love to use the Duets feature to add a second mic. Ages 8+, $29.99, amazon.

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3. I Never Forget a Face Memory & Matching Game Matching games are great for Gross Motor Skills, and whether your child loves puzzles or needs to work on their remembering skills, this memory & matching game also helps kids with empathy while teaching diversity. Ages 3 plus, 22, eeBoo.com. 4. Kai the AI Robot Composed of 25 red LEDs, its face display can be programmed via the app to show different expressions and scrolling messages and physical gestures and sounds can be recorded and assigned to KAI’s five functions.

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5. Furby Furblets Mello-Nee Mini Friend A mini Furby, that measures 2 inch/5 centimeters small, making for a fun stocking stuffer gift; it comes with a keychain clip for the backpack. Ages 6 and up. $10, amazon. com. 6. Stapelstein Original We learned from the pandemic that kids adore old-fashioned play. What we love about Stapelstein® dome-like designs is that kids will love balancing, floating, spinning, and stacking, turning the living room or outdoor area into a creative and inventive adventure. Starting at $35-$300, stapelstein. com. 7. Crayola Kids Customizable 3-Wheel Kick Scooter This scooter has an adjustable handlebar for your little one’s height, a fun branded storage box. White LED lights on the front and rear wheels illuminate when being ridden. Extra fun! $39-40, Ages 2-4. Kohls.com

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FOR AGES 8�11 1. Lila Monetti, American Girl’s 2024 “Girl of the Year Lila’s character comes to life in a beautiful, 18-inch doll, adorned in plenty of sparkle and shine from her glittery pink tank to her cool hair accessories. Kids will love her exclusive look with amber eyes and caramel-colored hair styled in two half ponytails. She is styled and ready for action in a glittery pink tank and track pants with colorful sandals, bracelets, and hairbands. Ages 8+, $115, americangirl. com.

2. CLUE: Squishmallows Board Game We love it when a favorite game we grew up with switches it up. In CLUE: Squishmallows, up to six players can take on the roles of Leonard, Cam, Lola, and more to investigate a fabulous mansion to figure out who may be the mac n’ cheese thief. $45, Ages 8&up, amazon.com.

3. Super Mario Brothers Wonder This game takes classic Mario sidescrolling gameplay to another level with the addition of Wonder Flowers. Kids will love that these game-changing items activate spectacular moments like pipes coming alive, floating through outer space, wreaking havoc as a giant SpikeBall, and seeing even more unexpected events called Wonder effects. Kids will also love that they can choose from the largest cast of characters in a sidescrolling Mario game, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy and Toads. Families will enjoy being able to team up with up to three friends locally and gather around one Nintendo Switch system to experience the game-bending Wonder effects together as you tackle courses as a team and help each other on your way to the Goal Pole, working together or turning a course into a friend race to finish first! Ages 8+, $59.99, amazon.com. 4. Barbie DreamHouse Adventures –Nintendo Switch Yes, yes, we are on the Barbie train, and most likely, so is your kid. This Nintendo Switch game will allow your Barbie fan to create their perfect dream house with décor and funnel your inner fashionista with stylish outfits. $39.99 Ages:E for everyone is the recommended age but we recommend for age 8 and older, nintendo. com.

4 5. Discovery #MINDBLOWN DIY Prize Pod Robot, Kids will love to construct a unique retro robot vending machine that not only highlights a cool design but also dispenses 12 prize-packed capsules for endless entertainment. Each capsule contains pieces that can be assembled into a separate toy robot, encouraging problem-solving abilities and

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5 fine motor skill development. Parents will love that kids immerse themselves in the realm of mechanical engineering with this interactive robot build kit, complete with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and that this captivating and educational DIY robot vending machine offers hours of engaging, hands-on playtime. Ages 8+, $25, faoschwarz.com.

FOR TWEENS & TEENS 1. Trivial Pursuit: Marvel Cinematic Universe Ultimate Edition Your teen can embark on the ultimate Marvel knowledge quest with their fellow MCU teammates by tackling 1,800 questions from Phases 1-3, aiming for those epic infinity wedges like Power and Space to claim victory, all while navigating the Marvel-themed game board with fantastic movers like the Tesseract and Loki’s Scepter and more. Ages 12 and up. $48, amazon.com. 2. Jet Set Needlepoint New York Pillow New York kids should be celebrated, which is why we love this crafty pillow that can go from a tween-bedroom college dorm room to a family keepsake. $98, jonathanadler.com.

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3. Crayola® X Kohl’s High Pile Fleece Fanny Pack No more “dont forget this” or “don’t forget that.” For this fun Crayola x Kohl’s collection is perfect for your tween. The pop of color is easy to find and wear and, most importantly, stylish and can be worn every day of the week. $16, Kohls.com.

4. Dungeons & Dragons The Yawning Portal If you are looking to give fewer electronic gifts and more classic gifts, you’ll love this board game. Based on kids’ favorite game (and movie!)- players, inspired by a beloved game and movie, engage in a culinary quest, matching food tokens with orders on Hero cards to earn gems and points, with strategic gem placements adding a layer of precision to their moves. Ages 12+, $40, amazon.com. 5. Pokémon™ Scarlet & Violet Obsidian Flames Blind Bag – Styles May Vary This may count more as a stocking stuffer or a bonus gift, but for a true Pokémon™ fan, it will be deeply appreciated—this Scarlet & Violet trading card game. There are ten mystery trading cards and one basic energy card. We would tell you how the game works, but at this point, #iykykenough said – happy holidays! Ages 6 +, $10, claires.com. 6. Dr. Seuss™ The Grinch Slippers Many tweens and teens love to be cozy, so these Mr. Grinch slippers with grippers at the sole are perfect stock stuffer gifts and perfect for a favorite teen pastime lounging. $16.99, claires.com.

FOR ALL AGES Ultimate Family Gift Pick! Give the gift of holiday joy with tickets to the Christmas Spectacular! See the iconic Rockettes as they perform in NYC’s favorite holiday tradition at Radio City Music Hall. Whether before Christmas or after (it runs until January 1st!), you and the kids will never forget this memory-making experience. For tickets, rockettes.com/christmas. December 2023 | New York Family

Slice of Life

Leadership Coach, mom of two, and pizzeria owner, Leah Wiseman Fink, opens up about being a connector, the importance of creating community wherever you are, and how throwing a pizza party solves (almost) everything. By Cris Pearlstein

f I could only eat one thing for the rest of my life it would be pizza. To me, it’s the perfect food: salty, saucy, sometimes crunchy. The acidity of the tomatoes, the meltiness of the cheese, the bread-iness of the crust. My Instagram feed has entire posts dedicated to it. It’s my desert island food, if you will. So when I’m asked to write the cover story for someone who owns pizza shops with her husband, I’m all in. Leah Wiseman Fink and her husband John Kutinsky started Williamsburg Pizza in 2012, and have since opened five more, including their most recent unlikely location in Omaha, Nebraska. Leah believes pizza to be a superfood that brings people together. A Leadership Coach by day, Leah is gifted at creating a sense of community and views it to be the foundation of building a great life—and a good business. Helping people who are starting a business or striking out on their own, get to the next level is her specialty, but she says the community aspect is super important. “It’s always helpful to have entrepreneur friends because they know the ups and downs, the problems and struggles, and can give great advice,” she said. Building support systems, leaning on each other, growing with each other, and learning from each other—these are her pillars. After speaking to her I suddenly have the urge to start a book club, a neighborhood mom group, or a monthly happy hour with my friends. The grind of daily life can make it seem impossible to prioritize these kinds of plans, these kinds of commitments. But Leah’s point is that it’s precisely these kinds of gatherings that actually help get through the challenges we face every day. Connecting with others shouldn’t be viewed as a burdensome task, but instead as a necessary supplement to living our lives

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to the fullest. So what’s next for this communitybuilding, pizza-supplying, mom-connecting Leadership Coach? “I actually really want to host retreats,” she told me. “Maybe you’ll come on one.” Maybe I will, Leah, but I need to know…will there be pizza? CP: Tell me about your family. LF: My husband Johnny and I have been together for 17 years. We were fixed up by family in Michigan. In Detroit, everybody knows each other in the Jewish community. So my dad and Johnny’s uncle fixed us up once. We emailed back and forth, but never met. Two years later, Johnny’s cousin and my cousin, completely unknowingly fixed us up a second time so we went on a blind date. That was 17 years ago this week and now we have two kids—Sammy is 10 and Sydney is six. CP: The holiday season is here, what does your family celebrate? LF: We celebrate Hanukkah. Years ago, my friend and I started this Jewish organization called B’nai Brooklyn, for reformed Jews. We used to have these Friday night pizza Shabbats and we decided now more than ever we should reignite it. So we’re going to do a big pizza Shabbat in the church basement. I like the joy of the holidays- how New York gets all lit up. I’ll take Sydney to see the Nutcracker. December is just a time of lights and joy. Everybody’s in a good mood. CP: It’s a very magical time in New York. Do you have any family holiday traditions that you’ve resurfaced with your kids from when you were a child? LF: The funny thing is I grew up dancing in the Nutcracker as a little Jewish girl in Detroit. We performed with the Detroit Sym-

phony Orchestra at the Fox Theatre—Aretha Franklin came once; it was a big deal. So it’s really cute that my daughter’s also dancing in the Nutcracker and then we’ll go see the show at Lincoln Center. CP: You mentioned a pizza Shabbat, I know you and your husband own Williamsburg Pizza. Can you tell me about that? LF: He said he always wanted a piece of New York. One day he came home from his banking job and said he had an idea for a side project. He told me he wanted to open a pizzeria, the landlord offered him a space he had his eye on. It took about nine months. I got pregnant the week we opened- 11 years ago. CP: You’re married, does that mean you both work at the pizzeria? Is it a partnership? LF: In the beginning, I started all the social media accounts, and I helped with PR, but I’m a life coach. That’s my main business now. CP: So you pop in and out when needed. LF: Exactly. I love a pizza party so in the beginning I threw a ton. Now we have five locations in New York and one in Omaha, Nebraska. Once we opened in Omaha, they needed a little bit more PR help, schmoozing, and outreach, so I have jumped back in to fill in some of those gaps. My favorite thing is bringing pizza to parties, and sending pies to people, and actually, it’s a huge part of our marketing strategy. CP: Tell me about how leadership coaching became a thing for you? LF: It started when I got pushed out of my education job while on maternity leave with Sydney. Just a really terrible experience, but honestly all for the best now that I can look at it in hindsight. I’m such an entrepreneurial

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

December 2023 | New York Family

person and I like being creative and having a flexible schedule, so from that experience, I started doing what I was good at, which was starting new mom groups. I would do moms nights out, I did B’nai Brooklyn and then a couple of years into that I was like, this is all great, but I wanted to figure out how to start making money from all of it. CP: Sounds like you’re a natural connector. LF: Exactly. And I was really good at it. And I was super busy, but there was not a thread that connected it all. So I hired a business coach to help me. And within the first couple of meetings I was like, oh, coaching is the thread that ties it all together. And so I got trained as a coach, and then it pretty quickly took off and has been a wonderful, amazing, meaningful career path. I always find people who are trying to crack the code to their next level. I coach a lot of mom entrepreneurs. I help a lot of people figure out how to spend less time on their businesses so they can spend more time with their families. Less time for more money, even just finding more time. Thinking about how stay-at-home moms can have more time. How do you delegate things to your partner? How do you make time for yourself? CP: Would you say that time management, and finding pockets of more time in people’s lives, is one of the most common things people come to you for? Is time revealing itself to be the most valuable asset we have? LF: Yeah, I would say so. I mean, we’re busier than ever and always looking for time. I think it’s how to make the same or more money using less time. That’s the math equation. And it’s possible, it really is but it takes some mind tricks to figure out. For example, when you charge more. You have to charge more to get more time, and the mind trick that I’m talking about is knowing you might go down for a little while, you might not get as many clients, but if you can keep your eye on the prize… CP: Full disclosure, I don’t really know anything about leadership coaching. I’ve never spoken to a life coach. For readers who might be skeptical of life coaching and its results, what would you say to them? LF: It’s a good question. For one, it’s not for everybody, right? I think the clients I see the most results from are the ones who are motivated to get to where they want to go. Like when I was getting kicked out of my job and I was really motivated to create a certain life for myself. It’s like having a trusted person

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“Invite people in — into communities or pizza parties or friendship circles. Just be really generous with yourself and your world.” to pull out of you what you actually want and then walk you down the road to get there. So generally I knew how to do that myself, I just needed someone to pull it out of me and see the vision. CP: My understanding of entrepreneurship is that it can be a very isolating, lonely endeavor, especially if you’re starting a business by yourself. I imagine a leadership coach to be a good supplement to that, someone on your side who’s sort of pushing you and motivating you and holding your hand as you go. LF: Another thing that’s so important in entrepreneurship is community. Even in our pizza world in Brooklyn…our kids go to the school down the block, and we know all the other business owners, Brooklyn feels like a very small town to us. And I don’t know if that’s neither here nor there, but it just feels like an important part of the story. CP: Where do you think your love for, and reliance on, community came from? LF: From growing up in Detroit with aunts, uncles, cousins that we would see every weekend for recitals and soccer games and brunch. It was just like a little village, my aunts would pick me up from school, we’d all go on vacation together. I think coming to New York, I just recreated that sort of naturally. A lot of people’s families aren’t nearby, so you’re getting together for holidays and happy hours and brunches. You just recreate that village. CP: How does your love and passion for building community intersect with your business and passion for life coaching? LF: You know what really helps build community? Pizza. You can invite anyone to anything and just be like, there’ll be pizza, and everyone will come. It’s like an automatic community builder. I think the common

thread is supporting each other. That’s the heart of it. People knowing each other, supporting each other, leaning on each other, learning from each other. I think coaching is the same. Getting to know each other, the intent to learn and grow together. Even now, it’s such a hard time in New York and Brooklyn as a Jewish person. So what’s the first thing we do? We bring people together and throw a pizza Hanukkah Shabbat. CP: It sounds like they’re both their own versions of a support system. How do you apply your coaching skills to the way you parent your kids? LF: I think it’s a deep sense of listening. And being attuned to them. The more I can be patient and present—those are skills that I practice a lot when I’m coaching people. But again, time is the biggest gift. Uninterrupted time, not on your phone, not on your screen, is the best thing. But it’s hard to do, especially as a person that runs her own businesses, a lot of what I do is on screens, on social media, for better or worse. When that can get shut off and I can be present is the best parenting. CP: If you could give one piece of advice, something a bit universal, for someone who wants more success in their life, what would it be? LF: Invite people in—into communities or pizza parties or friendship circles. Just be really generous with yourself and your world. Talk nicely to yourself, give yourself a break. And remember everybody’s dealing with a lot so give people the benefit of the doubt. Assume they have the best intentions, though I have honestly found that really hard to do in the past couple of weeks. CP: What have been your tactics to get through the past few weeks of what’s been going on in Israel, and its effect on your life in NYC? LF: Leaning on my people, has been the number one. There have been groups of people who have been so kind and supportive— and not even just Jewish people. My mom friends, entrepreneur friends, just saying to me, we’re here for you and we see you. One of my close friends asked if she could send us dinner, which is so funny because in New York we can all order our own takeout, right? But it was just such a kind gesture. CP: Well, food is love. I think you guys have proved that. I almost want to say your best piece of advice is: when in doubt, throw a pizza party.

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

LF: Oh my God, yes. CP: I know that in Jewish culture, because my Italian culture is very similar, the way you show love is often through food. LF: People ask me what to do for someone who’s suffering in any way and for me, you just send them food, send a pizza. I love doing it for people. CP: What advice do you have for someone who wants to check in on their Jewish friends but isn’t quite sure how? LF: I think it’s really simple. Something like, thinking of you or I hope you’re doing okay. And a tangible offer is always good. Can I send you dinner? Can I take you on a walk? Do you want to have coffee? I actually think that goes for any kind of suffering. Like, if somebody’s sick or has lost someone. CP: I know from your website you’ve done a lot of coaching with new moms. I’m wondering, is the advice the same for a new mom in your life? How do you show up for them in a way that’s not burdensome? LF: I think it’s a similar combination—

thinking of you, hope you’re doing okay. I think saying no need to respond is a great new-mom tactic. Sending food is amazing, and tangible offers like, do you want me to come over and hold the baby while you take a nap? Do you want to get out of the house and take a walk? Do you want me to check back in, in a month? CP: When I was a new mom I would have loved any of those offers. LF: Also, I had postpartum depression with both my kids, so even just saying hey, this happened to me. I’m leaving that door open for them to sort of come in if they want to talk. CP: How did you recognize it? What was the red flag for you? LF: I just was still not feeling right after a year, but the problem was there was no real red flag. It was just yellow flags that weren’t going away. And I just knew something was not right, it felt like a fog. And once I addressed it, the fog lifted. CP: I think that’s interesting and useful to hear because I think a lot of women know only the extreme versions of postpartum

depression. But it manifests in many ways, and just because it’s not manifesting in you in one way doesn’t mean it’s not manifesting in other ways. LF: When it happened the second time, I felt it coming. I knew what it was. CP: Did it feel the same as the first time? LF: I don’t know, I didn’t let it last as long, because I just felt it and immediately knew what it was and addressed it. I was even able to tell my friends it was happening. My friend walked over, she had a baby too at the time, and she’s like, I’m just gonna stand outside until you come outside. Whenever you’re ready, come down, and we’ll go eat breakfast. I was like, Okay, I guess I’m going downstairs. CP: When you say address it, you mean talk to your doctor? LF: It was therapy and medication. I think telling people the second time it happened was really helpful, telling my friends and letting them be there for me and show up at my door. CP: Community again. LF: Exactly. December 2023 | New York Family

calendar By Shara Levine

Manhattan

Big Apple Circus and Circus-Theater Roncalli WHEN: Through Jan. 1. See website for complete schedule WHERE: Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center, Amsterdam Ave. & W 62nd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: This new show will transport you to a dreamlike wonderland as it blends the best of New York City’s hometown circus with the romance and magic of today’s European circus tradition. WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $24.95. bigapplecircus.com

Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland WHEN: Mondays-Thursdays, 3-11 pm, Fridays, 1-11 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am-11 pm, through Jan. 7. WHERE: Pier 17, 89 South St., Downtown Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Travel to the North Pole and meet up with head elf Betty for larger-than-life photo moments, weekend appearances by Santa Claus, rooftop ice skating, and more. WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $15. rooftopatpier17.com

My First Nutcracker WHEN: Dec. 2-21, See website for complete schedule WHERE: Theatre Row, 410 W 42nd St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Travel to a magical kingdom filled with sparkling skies, dancing flowers, and a pesky mouse king in this holiday classic reimagined for the youngest theatergoers. WANT TO GO?: $57.50-$64.50. nycchildrenstheater.org

Annual Santa Rescue WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 3, 12 – 2 pm

The Apollo Theater hosts Kwanzaa: A Regeneration Celebration on December 30 WHERE: New York City Fire Museum, 278 Spring St., Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: Watch as an FDNY ladder truck rescues Old Saint Nick! Once safely rescued, Santa will be taking visits and gift requests along with other fun family activities. WANT TO GO?: $20. nycfiremuseum.org

‘Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil WHEN: Dec. 7-28, Tuesdays – Sundays, Various Times WHERE: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: This thrilling interpretation of the well-known Christmas classic is a whirlwind of love, holiday cheer, riotous fun, and adorably endearing characters.

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WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $46. msg.com

Trolls x CAMP WHEN: Daily, 9 am – 7 pm through Feb. 19 WHERE: CAMP 5th Avenue, 110 5th Ave., Midtown West AGES: 3 – 9 WHAT: Explore Bergen Town, Vacay Island, and Pop Village, go on a wild ride in a living bus thingy called Rhonda, and be a part of a live Trollpop concert! WANT TO GO?: $39. camp.com

Chanukah on Ice NYC WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 12, 6 – 9 pm WHERE: Central Park Wollman Rink, 830 5th Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy an evening of ice skating and Chanukah fun

for the whole family with the lighting of a six foot tall Ice Menorah accompanied by music and prayers for Israel. WANT TO GO?: $32 ages 3 and older. chanukahonicenyc.com

Breakfast with Santa WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 am – 12 pm WHERE: Hard Rock Cafe New York, 1501 Broadway, Midtown AGES: 12 and under WHAT: Enjoy a delicious breakfast, take pictures, and tell Santa what’s on your list. WANT TO GO?: $24.95; $11.95 children 10 and younger. hardrockcafe.com

Kwanzaa: A Regeneration Celebration WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 30, 2 pm & 7:30 pm. WHERE: Apollo Theater, 253

December

Fulton St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: 5 and up WHAT: Step into a wintry realm brimming with family fun, where art, music, dance, and interactive media weave a magical tapestry. WANT TO GO?: Free. bricartsmedia.org

West 125th St., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Come out for a joyous celebration of Kwanzaa through dance, music and spoken word, honoring the principles of Kwanzaa, family, community and culture. WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $25. apollotheater.org

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

New Year’s Eve at CMOM

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 31, 10 pm WHERE: Prospect Park, Breeze Hill, Prospect Lefferts Gardens AGES: All WHAT: Say goodbye to 2023 with Brooklyn’s most spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration! WANT TO GO?: Free. prospectpark.org

WHEN: Dec. 31, 10 am – 5 pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 West 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Ring in 2024 in style with wacky hats of your own design, a New Year’s Eve ball drop, dance party, and more. WANT TO GO?: $16.75. (646) 765–4773, cmom.org

Bronx NYBG GLOW: An Outdoor Color & Light Experience WHEN: See website for schedule WHERE: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Highbridge AGES: All WHAT: The Garden’s iconic sights and buildings become dramatic, glittering canvases with thousands of dazzling choreographed lights and sounds along with pictureperfect installations. WANT TO GO?: $54; $39 ages 2-12. nybg.org

Family Day: Winter Wonderland

calendar

Queens Cat Kid Comic Club – The Musical

The Big Apple Circus returns to Lincoln Center. WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 1 – 4 pm WHERE: The Bronx Museum, 1040 Grand Concourse, Morrisania AGES: All WHAT: Come out for an afternoon filled with festive wintry art making activities for the whole family. WANT TO GO?: Free. bronxmuseum.org

Pelham Bay AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Explore the museum decorated with holiday trees in each of the period rooms, take selfies with Santa, and children can get creative decorating their own holiday cookies. WANT TO GO?: $15; free for adults when accompanied by a child. bartowpellmansionmuseum.org

Selfies with Santa and Cookies and Crafts

Brooklyn

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 16, 11 am – 1 pm WHERE: Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, 895 Shore Rd.,

Chanukah Family Fest WHEN: Dec. 7-14, Monday – Thursdays, 10 am-5 pm; Sunday, 10 am-5:30 pm WHERE: Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Pkwy, Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: This Chanukah, decorate a mouth-watering holiday donut, discover the art of olive oil making in an interactive workshop, make your own Chanukah Gelt Bag, and more. WANT TO GO?: $17 child; $15 adult; $14 seniors 65 and older. (718) 467–0600, jcm.museum

Family Day: BRIC Winter Wonderland

Celebrate Chanukah on Ice in Central Park on December 12.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 12-5 pm WHERE: BRIC House, 647

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 3, 1 pm & 4 pm. WHERE: Queens Theater, 14 United Nations Ave S, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Tag along as Cat Kid and Molly Pollywog teach 21 rambunctious baby frogs how to make their own comics! WANT TO GO?: $20. (203) 609–1611, queenstheatre.org

Circus Vazquez WHEN: Dec. 8-Jan. 7, Weekdays, 7:30 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 1 pm, 4 pm, and 7 pm WHERE: Citi Field, 41 Seaver Wy, Corona AGES: All WHAT: This awe-inspiring, death-defying, hilarious live circus experience is unforgettable fun for the entire family. WANT TO GO?: $30-$90. Circusvazquez.com

Gingerbread House Party WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 – 11 am WHERE: Art Strong, 43-67 11th St, Long Island City AGES: 8 and under WHAT: Children are invited to design & create their very own gingerbread house to take home! WANT TO GO?: $45. artstrongnyc.com

December 2023 | New York Family

mom stories

From Legend to Life Story Unlocking our family secrets in time for the holidays By Drew Kramer

very family has an origin story. At holiday tables, the elder statesmen of the clan hand down the legend of people no longer here to defend, celebrate or laugh at the past. The stories invoke pride in shared history and explore repeating patterns of behavior both good and bad. After all, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. In every family there is a member that is inspired to find the truth in the mythology. I am the family historian. It started with my childhood attraction to basements filled with boxes of old family photos. Like a moth to flame, I hovered over the artifacts of a bygone era, entranced by the faces of strangers, searching for the features of the people I love. As I got older, I grew increasingly curious to unpack the mystery of what must have happened to inspire them to get on a boat from Eastern Europe and travel in steerage for 30 days to start fresh here in New York. Like many Americans, my story begins with an immigrant’s journey through Ellis Island. From table whispers to my history classes, I learned that my people relocated from small town shtetl life to New York tenement housing because of religious persecution at the turn of the 20th century. This story is unspecial. Across the globe and religious affiliations, our people left with baggage from somewhere else and brought it to New York on a boat or a plane. It time travels through the generations via family dogma and DNA, informing how you relate to people and problems. Are you a social butterfly? Do you lash out in anger? Or bury it where no one can find it? Someone else probably did too. Recently, inspired by the new mythology revealed at my great uncle’s 95th birthday, I signed up for a 14-day free trial on ancestry.com. There, I found a treasure trove of records and photographs that connected me to a long lost cousin that helped connect the dots of the scattered stories I’d collected over time. For all the answers my new relation

42 NewYorkFamily.com | December 2023

gave to my questions, it also created new mysteries to solve together. Both my lost cousin and I knew that my great great grandfather left Poland after his first wife, my great great grandmother was killed in a pogram. My side, descending from wife number one, believed he avenged the murder and fled to America to escape the consequences. My newfound cousin, a descendent of wife number two, told a different version of the story. As I begin my search for answers, I start to unpack the origin of anxiety and repression that run deep in my veins. We’re worried, but we’re still smiling. If you’re looking to dig up a little dirt from your roots to wow your relatives this holiday season, the first step is to plant a tree. Once logged onto Ancestry.com, I sow the seeds, providing my name and birthday and that of my parents and four grandparents long deceased. Once I pressed submit, their software sifted through centuries of data, surfacing marriage licenses, census documentation and ship manifests to paint the picture of your family’s path to the present. Each morning, I awake to the sprout of a new leaf. A death certificate. A family tree that connects to a new cousin. I begin to wonder when my tree will intersect with the celebrity doppelgangers I’ve

identified to play me in the movie of my life. Fran Lebowitz, are you my mother? If you, like me, possess the boldness and intrigue to connect with strangers, I advise you to message the other soul searchers that cross branches with your clan. As I began messaging other relations who claim kinship to the same people, I unlocked unknown stories from a bygone era. They can sing like we can sing. Their photos possess the same soulful brown eyes that stare back at me from my mirror. What other gifts did these strangers bestow upon us? In one week, I traced one line of my family’s footsteps as far back as 1803 in Mszczonów, Mazowieckie, Poland. From Google, I learned that this is a tiny town located outside of Warsaw. Wikipedia shared that this town once possessed a vibrant Jewish community – one that surely perished in the 1939 Nazi Germany invasion. Over 120 years have passed since my first family members touched down in New York Harbor. Whether their virtues or vices trickled down to my naughty toddlers, remains to be seen in 2023. But as I watch them play with their cousins this holiday season, I feel nothing but gratitude for their gift of this beautiful life.

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