Long Island Family - January 2024

JANUARY 2024

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

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January 2024 | Long Island Family

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CONTENTS

JANUARY 2024 NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 36

pg. 32 pg. 14

pg. 12

pg. 34

FEATURES 14 | Travel New York Family share nearby family getaways 32 | Travel Rethinking the family vacation 34 | Cover Flying high with Kristi Hemric 38 | Travel Jetsetting to the TWA Hotel

GUIDE TO SCHOOLS

STORIES & COLUMNS

20 | Education Benefits of a New York education

6 | Editor’s Letter

22 | Education Changing a school mid-year

8 | Ask the Expert TikTok and your kids’ social media spending

24 | Education Considering a Catholic School Education

12 | Activities Picking extracurriculars, activities, and sports

26 | Education Directory

16 | Family Fun Things to do in Long Island in 2024

30 | School Leaders Guide

FAMILY FUN

DIRECTORIES

36 | Calendar All the fun events and activities for January

13 | Activities Guide 26 | Education Guide

ON THE COVER Photo: Michelle Rose Photo | michellerosephoto.com Makeup & Hair: Ammy Chan | ammychan.com Location: TWA Hotel | twahotel.com Produced by: Donna Duarte-Ladd

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@buckleycountrydayschool January 2024 | Long Island Family

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Nina Gallo Photography

January Adventures It is here, 2024 when New York is humming with energy and resolutions like a new school, fun winter classes for the kids, and travel (see our cover theme) may also be on the ticket.

Here is a resolution: if you have a (page 8) TikTok-obsessed tween/Teen starting to spend money via the platform, we have tips on curbing this habit.

Our Ultimate Guide to Schools (page 19) will support you with School information broken down by Charter, Catholic, and Independent schools, Tips on Changing a School Mid-Year (page 22), and more helpful articles. And don’t forget our Camp Fairs

(page 39), check out when our next one is coming up!

Circling back to New Year goals- an expert shares insights on Rethinking the Family Vacation (page 32), and our cover mom, Kristi Hemric (page 34), photographer and travel expert, shares on wanderlust solo travels, her journey as a mom of four, pro travel tips for families, work-life balance advice, and her favorite family-friendly travel destinations.

Happy New Year!

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 MARKETING & EVENTS ASSISTANT: Ashley Rivera 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

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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. ©2024 Queens Family Media, LLC

Our Students are Thriving!

School Tours & Open Houses Happening During Catholic Schools Week in January 2024!

www.lischools.org 35 schools • Early Childhood • K-8 January 2024 | Long Island Family

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ask the expert

TikTok and Your Kids’ Social Media Spending Tips for curbing this new habit

By BarBara russo

P

arents of tweens and teens are probably experiencing thier children spending more than 90 minutes daily on TikTok. Adding more to their digital footprint, the platform has proven to influence these young users to spend. New Consumer found that 27% of users were prompted to purchase a new product because they saw it on TikTok. Unsurprisingly, parents are footing the bill: according to Piper Sandler’s biannual survey, 62% of teens admitted that their parents contribute to their social media spending.

So, as we enter a new year, how can parents steer kids away from buying products they don’t need on TikTok – and teach them responsible spending and saving habits instead?

We spoke with Jennifer Seitz, CFEI and Director of Education at Greenlight (and a mom of three teens), who can provide actionable advice for parents and kids.

TikTok is ripe with products that—more often than not—people just don’t need.

How do you tell your kids not to get caught up in all the glitzy promotion of things on TikTok? The social media algorithm is filling our social feeds with ads for what they know we like — and likely want to buy. This brings an opportunity to have an open and honest conversation with your kids about responsible spending before a pattern of impulse buys becomes the norm. This means prioritizing needs over wants, adhering to a budget for future goals, and making informed purchase decisions based on thorough research and comparison.

Encourage them to think critically about

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whether a product serves a genuine purpose or if it’s simply another passing trend. As you shop with your kids or give them permission to shop, contextualize the qualities of responsible spending. Instead of giving them a “yes” or “no” answer, use this framework to help them come to a wise conclusion themselves.

Help them cultivate a habit of setting future financial goals and saving for them – from buying concert tickets to purchasing their first car or saving up for a graduation trip. A dollar saved now is a dollar preserved for future enjoyment.

Is it helpful to talk to kids about their social media spending and how it is impacting their personal finances? If so, how does a

parent approach the issue?

Certainly! Discussing their social media spending — and spending in general — creates an opportunity for you to guide their understanding about how money works. Earning, spending, and saving are all connected.

Educate them about the potential pitfalls associated with recurring subscriptions or inapp purchases, as those can really drain their allowance unnoticed. You can also raise some potential consequences of impulse spending in the real world, such as snowballing credit card debt or falling short of paying rent and bills. The goal is not to scare them away from all spending but to foster a sense of responsibility of maintaining healthy personal finances.

January 2024 | Long Island Family

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ASK THE EXPERT

“The goal is not to scare them away from all spending but to foster a sense of responsibility of maintaining healthy personal finances.”

How does a parent limit or set guardrails on screen time and social media spending?

Start by establishing clear guidelines around both screen time and spending allowance. You can begin by setting specific daily or weekly caps for certain activities on their phones or computers and enforce that with parental control settings on the devices.

Encourage alternative activities, such as outdoor time, reading, sports, games, family time, and more, to balance out screen time.

Limited device usage can limit exposure to social media spending. The next step in limited or setting guardrails on social media spending is educating your kids about the potential risks of online purchases (e.g. scams, privacy violations) and the slippery slope of overspending.

Consider setting up separate pre-paid cards or online payment accounts with limited funds and purchase alerts for their use. Sit down with them each month to go over their shopping history and compare their actual spending to the budget. And remember to reiterate your previous conversations with them on discerning needs

vs. wants and now vs. later. This process will not only help you identify overspending but also help them learn from any mistakes they might make.

Discuss situations where your permission is required for purchase, so you can discuss their thought process. These conversations are meant to create a supportive environment so that they feel safe to practice, learn, and foster better spending habits for the long run.

Teaching kids about wants vs. needs—that’s important when it comes to limiting social media spending, or any spending. How can a parent get kids to think critically before clicking that quick link to buy something?

Parents can talk to their kids about the difference between needs and wants starting at a young age — as soon as they have wants that aren’t needs. Both can have a place in a budget, and balance is the key! Show them how to categorize their prior spending and create a plan for how they choose to spend and save going forward. That’s a budget!

Typically, adults have the primary responsibility for basic needs, such as food, clothes, and a safe place to live. However, you can prepare your kids to live independently in the future by teaching them how to prioritize and make trade-offs now. Spending in one category will mean less in another category. If they ever overspend on TikTok shopping, ask them how that affects spending on something they might want even more in the future.

Have analytical discussions to turn their money mistakes into teachable moments.

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activities

Picking Extracurriculars, Sports, and Activities

coming for your child (or you!), then less is more. One meaningful activity is more than enough.

If one day a week or a few hours each is sufficient, it will work for your child and, most importantly, the family.

By Stacey eBert

There is an activity, class, or sport out there for every child In families with more than one kid, you may run around and do different activities for your children, as only all of your kids will want to do the same sport or class.

So, lead them to what they will thrive in or take a mild interest and turn it into a full-on hobby. For example, If your child has an ear for languages, steer them towards an international culture or language club.

If they’re pulled towards teams, leadership, and exercise, see what types of sports or club teams are out there for them. If they crave connection and want to learn creative pursuits, consider opening their world towards what’s possible in arts, community service, or learning something new. They want to practice swimming midwinter, there’s a club for that. They want to learn chess and build their interpersonal skills simultaneously; there’s a class for that. They want to learn marketing, debate, and business skills – there’s an organization for that. They want to learn survival skills and embrace the goals of scouts and leadership; there’s a space for that.

Give them a safe, non-judgemental space to share their interests and thrive.

A

s a kid, I loved after-school extracurricular classes. Whether summer camp, gymnastics, or high school clubs – regardless of the time of year- I embraced the energy that came with all activities. As a young adult, I led youth groups, ran after-school classes at the local community center, and taught many kids to swim. I felt lucky to have teachers and counselors who chose to share their time, energy, expertise, and talents.

As the season shifts towards winter, it’s time to ensure those young minds have extracurricular classes, activities, or sports to engage, foster, and energize their spirits. Parents should know something exists for all kids – it might take time, effort, trial and error, thinking outside the box, recruiting experts, and listening to your child’s voice. It might mean investments in energy, money, community, and heart. However long it takes to find the thing that lights them up – it’s worth it.

Here are 4 tips to help find an engaging winter extracurricular, class or activity for your child.

Listen actively Kids have a way of sharing their thoughts. Young

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children might not have the words yet, but they know how they feel. Those with the words might not have the meaning flushed out, and some kids may be shy and might need coaxing to try something new. Listen to what seems to interest them and provide options, give them the tools to research, keep an open line of communication, remind them they’ve got a support system, encourage giving it a try, and help them see that the nervous excitement of expanding that comfort zone is worth both the risk and joy.

Know your child There is something for everyone in New York – offering many enriching activities encompassing diverse arts, including painting, sculpting, dancing, drawing, poetry, writing, music, theater, and more. Engaging in the arts fosters talent and expands your child’s understanding of the world, nurturing a heightened sense of self-awareness. For those passionate about sports, tailor-made winter classes are available after school or on weekends, providing the ideal outlet for children to expend their boundless energy.

Less is more Parent tip! If you’re overextended, your child is overscheduled, or there is sensory overload

ACTIVITIES DIRECTORY

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Sylvan Learning of Mineola 393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-368-0823 sylvanofmineola@gmail.com locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/mineola-ny At Sylvan Learning of Mineola, children experience significant skill growth in school. Sylvan has perfected a highly personal approach that delivers results, tailoring lessons to each child’s specific needs. Whether a child needs to master foundational skills or learn advanced concepts, Sylvan provides supplemental support that leads to greater learning – which can have an impact not only on school life, but in all areas of life. Their caring teachers are experts at encouraging and motivating kids to learn, grow and flourish leading to soaring confidence in reading, math, and writing.

YMCA of Long Island Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue 855-2YMCALI (962254) ymcali.org Childcare@ymcali.org Let’s GO! Whether it’s swim lessons, sports, dance, STEM or Art classes, the YMCA offers programs for kids of all ages to learn critical skills to help them learn, grow and thrive. Winter Program Registration Happening Now! Program Session runs February 4 – April 13. The Y also offers a number of Health & Wellness Programs for adults, including Aquatics Programs, Group Fitness & Water Fitness Classes, Small Group & Personal Training, and more!

January 2024 | Long Island Family

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TRAVEL

Winter Getaways Nearby retreats — with the kids or solo — from New York Family partners

W

hether you’re a family seeking a brief escape or a mom (or dad!) eager to discover the hidden gems beyond the city limits, New York’s surrounding towns and nearby states offer many enchanting destinations, from charming small towns to breathtaking natural wonders that extend far beyond our iconic skyline.

Catskills This iconic destination’s esteemed ski resorts and charming nearby villages beckon those seeking a respite. Hunter Mountain offers a pristine powdery escape that promises a weeklong stay that’s nothing short of a winter utopia. Windham Mountain Club’s awardwinning ski school and variety of terrain has an unsurpassed reputation as the idyllic family-friendly destination! The mountain towns of Windham and Hunter are truly thriving. From bopping along Main Street to refueling at a local restaurant to unwinding with a soothing massage, there’s no wrong way to après-ski in the Great Northern Catskills.

Gore Mountain Are you looking for a family-friendly ski resort? Gore Mountain is the perfect choice!

Gore Mountain is the ideal destination for an unforgettable family adventure with incredible value, catering to all skill levels and providing everything you need to get started in a snow sport. Plus, it’s only 25 minutes off I-87, making your drive to the mountain enjoyable.

Massachusetts Experience Central Massachusetts’ winter wonder with family-friendly indoor activities and ideal solo getaways. Explore history at the American Heritage Museum or enjoy a day of luxury bowling and arcade games at Apex Entertainment.

Discover science at the EcoTarium, delve into industrial history at the Samuel Slater Experience, and explore art at the Worcester Art Museum whether solo at Beechwood Hotel or with family at Sturbridge Host

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Hotel, Central MA offers a mix of indoor delights and cozy getaways.

Mountain Creek Mountain Creek, located in the snowy Vernon Valley, is the closest major ski resort to NYC. Located just 47 miles outside Manhattan, Mountain Creek offers skiing, snowboarding, SNO-GO ski biking, and a brand-new snow tubing hill for this winter. If you’re looking to get your little ones started on snow, check out their Kids Camp lesson

programs, and if you’re looking to make a vacation out of it, they even offer slopeside accommodations right at the resort.

New York, NY, Kimpton Hotel Eventi The high-end boutique hotel located at the nexus of the NoMad and Chelsea neighborhoods, has launched a bookable Winter Lodge Suite experience, offering guests a whimsical wintry getaway in the city, available until the very last day of winter, March 19, 2024.

Rhode Island Free your family from the traffic and travel of larger cities and spend more time on Rhode Island’s beaches and bike paths, at ice cream stands and kid-friendly restaurants, or at award-winning attractions such as the Providence Children’s Museum, Roger Williams Park Zoo, and the Biomes Marine Biology Center. Hop on a ferry to Block Island and take in spectacular natural sights and some of the country’s most pristine white sand beaches.

Rochester Rochester, NY beckons visitors to rediscover their inner child, making it an ideal destination for both family vacations and solo mom getaways. Families can watch their kids’ eyes light up as they discover the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games at The Strong National Museum of Play, while moms can embrace their sense of wonder by exploring the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. Indulgence is an easy add-on by visiting the newly renovated Spa Elan at Woodcliff Hotel and Spa or Ape

& Canary. And don’t forget the many craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, and wineries!

Rockland County, NY For a perfect family road trip, visit Rockland County – just 30 miles north of NYC. Situated along the majestic Hudson River, and nestled among thousands of acres of untouched parkland, you will find lots of outdoor fun including hiking trails, mountain vistas, ice skating and scenic views. The Palisades Center offers family entertainment with a bowling alley, the worlds tallest indoor ropes course, themed restaurants and much more. Rockland County also offers exquisite waterfront villages that feature world-class restaurants, art galleries, theatres, shopping and historic sites.

Smugglers’ Notch Winter Nestled in the heart of the stunning Green Mountains of Vermont, Smugglers’ Notch Resort is excited to announce its winter season offerings, promising visitors an unforgettable winter wonderland adventure.

With over 1,000 acres of pristine mountain terrain, families can revel in activities all Smuggs has to offer. Made up of 78 trails, 3 big mountains, and mountainside lodging, there’s no shortage of mountainous fun at your fingertips.

Westchester County Situated between the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester County offers an enchanting winter getaway.

Just 30 miles north of Manhattan, and easily reachable by MTA and Amtrak, this destination promises a magical winter wonderland experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities throughout the season, including activities like ice skating, exploring the wonders of Westchester Children’s Museum, immersing themselves in the historic charm of Lyndhurst Mansion, unwinding at The Opus Spa, and savoring exquisite cuisine at premier dining establishments. With these captivating offerings, Westchester stands out as the perfect destination for a winter retreat.

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January 2024 | Long Island Family

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FAMILY FUN

Things to Do on 24 Long Island in 2024

BY DIANA KELLY LEVEY

I

lived in Long Island for five years and love exploring “the island.” Luckily, there’s no shortage of things to do on Long Island with kids and families. Here are the top 25-plus bucket list things to do in Long Island with kids that I’ve tried and/or friends recommend.

1. There are a lot of things to do at Jones Beach State Park throughout the year. It’s open year-round but you’ll need to pay to park during the seasonal summer months.

Look out for special things to do seasonally, like the Bethpage Air Show Memorial Day

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weekend (free) and the Magic of Lights drivethrough holiday show during the holiday season (pay per car).

2. Visit the iconic Nunley’s carousel located within Museum Row in Nassau County. It’s in a small park kids can run around in and you pay per rider. It’s open on the weekends at various times throughout the year but check the calendar.

3. There’s something for kids of all ages at the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center. It’s free to enter the building and check out the exhibits (including animals) but you might have to pay a parking fee for Jones Beach. Even

toddlers enjoy the hands-on displays and outdoor music section. Bring bikes for a ride along the oceanfront paths and pack lunch to enjoy on the covered porch.

4. The Vanderbilt Museum and Mansion in Centerport is a great place to visit on the weekends for a dose of history (it was the summer home of William K. Vanderbilt II), a habitat wing of animal dioramas, and hall of fishes.

The Planetarium is a must-visit along with a rooftop observatory that’s open to the public.

5. Plan a trip to the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead on hot summer days and when the weather is crummy at other times of

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January 2024 | Long Island Family

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FAMILY FUN

the year. Visitors can watch specific animal feedings, be entertained by sea lions, learn about sharks during presentations and see beautiful aquatic creatures. Buy tickets online or in person.

6. Get a feel for “old Long Island” with a visit to Old Westbury Gardens in Westbury. Visit the mansion and gardens throughout the year and check the website to see “what’s in bloom,” as the grounds will look different in April than an August visit! Kids will enjoy running around the gardens but keep in mind you’ll need to closely watch young children in the mansion (read: old, expensive things!) and we didn’t find the grounds to be very stroller friendly since there are large staircases to navigate. If you have young children, you might be better off babywearing or bringing a lightweight collapsible umbrella stroller.

7. Check out the Takapausha Museum and Preserve in Seaford, open throughout the year Thursdays through Sundays. They have turtles, bats, owls, birds (like a bald eagle!), reptiles, rabbits, and educational films. Kids will also love the large outdoor play area with musical instruments, sandboxes and more.

8. The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery and Aquarium in Cold Spring Harbor is a fun place to let kids feed the fish (which jump out of the water for food!), see reptiles and fish in the two indoor buildings and walk along the grounds checking out freshwater fish of all sizes up close.

9. There’s plenty to do at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow–a public park larger than Central Park. From swimming pools to golf, picnic areas, several playgrounds for kids of all ages, ponds, tennis courts, ball fields and cricket fields, miniature golf and the Eisenhower Park Splash and Sprinkler Fun area is perfect for small children on hot days.

10. Show kids your roller-skating or rollerblading moves (if you remember how!) at United Skates of America in Seaford where families can rent roller skates for the 10,000-square-foot rink or play in the arcade.

Stop by the Smallcakes bakery in the same shopping center for a treat afterwards.

11. The Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum is a famous destination due to it being at the tip of Long Island and the first lighthouse in New York (as well as the fourth-oldest in the country). Children over 41” can climb the

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lighthouse. Pair it with a picnic on the beach at Montauk.

12. Play with baby goats at the Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park and Children’s Zoo in Manorville. Open seven days a week in the spring and summer months, weekends in the off season. From camels to bison, donkeys to parrots, and many creatures in between, there’s so much to see at this farm that focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, or re-homing animals. Kids will love feeding the animals, petting them and playing on the toy train.

13. History buffs will appreciate a visit to Sagamore Hill in Oyster Bay, the summer home of Theodore Roosevelt. It has 83 acres of property and trails to explore nature and can lead to a salt marsh and beach.

14. The Adventureland Amusement park in Farmingdale is a fun place for kids of all ages to go on rides, play games and visit the arcade.

It’s worth noting that everyone over the age of 2 has to pay admission, even if they aren’t getting on rides.

15. The Cradle of Aviation is another family favorite in Uniondale that’s featured on Museum Row. There’s something for kids of all ages at this Long Island Air & Space Museum.

Planes and helicopters hanging from the ceiling awe kids, there are planes kids can get in and exhibits to walk through as well as a history of aerospace which includes a hot air balloon kids can make fly, arcade games to play, and a small, closed off indoor play area for younger children.

16. Another hands-on animal experience in Manorville is the Animal Farm Petting Zoo and Park which has pony rides, and opportunities to feed sheep, pigs, goats, and cuddle with baby animals. They’re open spring through the fall.

17. Learn about the history of firefighting and fire service equipment in Long Island at the Nassau County Firefighter’s Museum and Education Center in Uniondale. (It’s part of Museum Row.) Kids can climb on some firetrucks, wear firefighting gear, and learn fire safety protocol through some of their interactive presentations.

18. Make a day of your trip to Uniondale and plan to spend a few hours at the Long Island Children’s Museum, too. There are over 14 interactive exhibits, outdoor activities and

play areas seasonally, and something for kids of all ages to do during the visit. Toddlers love the TotSpot which features buses, post office, boats, and food to play with. Everyone loves the bubbles section and older kids will have a blast exploring the ClimbIt sculpture.

19. Bring kids over 3 to Adventure Park Long Island in Wheatley Heights to test their coordination, strength and stamina in the outdoor park and playground. You can choose your own adventure along the tree-top courses and zip lines, or take advantage of the playground for younger kids.

20. There are a variety of programs for families at the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor. Kids will enjoy exploring the mansion, participating in special family events and programs or exploring the outdoor sculpture gardens and grounds. They even have Mornings at the Museum programs for youth with autism.

21. Long Island is rich in indoor playgrounds for kids and we particularly like those that serve hot drinks and snacks. A Latte Fun in Huntington has a motorized carousel kids can ride on, small rooms with themed toys to play with, as well as a slides and a trampoline and other things to climb on to help get energy out. There’s an upstairs geared towards smaller children with toddler toys and a ball pit. One of the reasons this is a top indoor playground is that it’s easy to watch kids while sipping a hot coffee or relaxing in the cafe.

22. The Dinosaur Exhibit at the Center for Science Teaching and Learning at the Tanglewood Preserve in Rockville Centre features life-size dinos, robotic dinosaurs and live animals. This outdoor fun is entertaining for the whole family and best enjoyed when the weather is nice.

23. Take advantage of the Long Island countryside with Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck. It has barnyard adventures, apple picking, obstacle courses, huge slides and bouncy pillows, as well as playgrounds, fresh local food, music and hayrides.

24. White Post Farms in Melville is a great zoo for kids who want to feed animals, ride ponies, feed giraffes, go on hayrides, see magic shows and ride the trains. It’s small enough that it’s easy to see the entire zoo in less than two hours and then spend the rest of the time playing on the playground equipment.

The Ultimate Guide to

SCHOOLS

education

Benefits of a New York Education

By New york Family

P

arents know that education plays a pivotal role in shaping the minds and lives of our children. Thankfully, New York is wellknown for its excellent educational institutions, both public and private, offering a wealth of resources and opportunities to students .

As parents, we are lucky to have access to cutting-edge academic programs and innovative teaching methods, from prestigious private schools to top-notch charter and public schools. Our kids benefit from exposure to groundbreaking research, state-of-the-art facilities, and extracurricular activities that nurture their passions and talents.

We broke down an easy go to outline on your educational options, check them out!

Nursery, Daycares, and Preschools When it comes to your child’s first school experience, which can start as early as a newborn, New York has the best early childcare choices for parents. From enrolling before the birth of your little one to being available on a schedule that supports your busy life, your family’s mental well-being, and your sense of community, there is truly an early education care option that will work within your budget and life.

Bilingual Education Bilingual education in New York offers numerous benefits to students. Bilingual

20 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

education enhances cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving skills and critical thinking, as students are exposed to different language structures and cultural perspectives. New York is a diverse melting pot, and bilingual education fosters crosscultural understanding, empathy, and tolerance, promoting social cohesion among students from various backgrounds.

Charter Schools A charter school education benefits students, families, and the community through innovation, personalized learning, strong community connections, and increased educational opportunities for students. Charter schools provide a unique and creative educational experience. Many charter schools promote smaller classes, enabling more individualized attention and personalized student learning plans. This customized approach fosters academic growth and helps students reach their full potential. A huge plus- charter schools employ highly qualified and passionate educators committed to providing their students with a high-quality education.

Catholic Schools Catholic school education provides a solid academic foundation, emphasizing discipline, critical thinking, and a rigorous curriculum. The commitment to academic excellence is coupled with a focus on moral and ethical values, instilling virtues such as compassion, integrity,

and respect in students. Catholic schools often have smaller class sizes, allowing individualized attention and fostering a supportive learning environment. If you are looking for a strong school community, Catholic schools promote belonging and foster strong relationships among students, parents, and teachers. Integrating faith and spirituality in daily activities and teachings encourages students to understand their beliefs and values better.

High School By the time your child is ready for High School, you have an idea of what sort of school will be a good fit for best them. High school students can attend one of the many public school offerings (via a lottery), a High School Charter School, a Catholic school, or private. New York high schools are so good they have more of a collegiate vibe, with many high school programs in New York often having access to internships, mentorship programs, and apprenticeships, enabling them to gain real-world experience and establish valuable connections early on.

When it comes to living in New York and your child’s education in vibrant and diverse New York, parents have endless opportunities and the privilege of mapping out their dream education plan from nursery school to high school. Visit newyorkfamily.com for our helpful guides and articles to support you in your child’s school journey.

January 2024 | Long Island Family

21

education

Changing a School Mid-year What to keep in mind when switching your child’s school

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

W

e’re nearly at the mid-term of the school year, and it’s time to take stock of how things might be going for your little one. While your child might be blissfully happy, it can also be the case that sometimes their school isn’t working, and you may be considering a mid-year jump to a new school.

Figure Out What Isn’t Working The first step is to write out or ask yourself why you want your child to move to another school. Listing what isn’t working will help you assess the kind of school that will fit better for your child. Whether you physically write it down or verbally work them out, list the pros and cons of staying or moving to a new school. There doesn’t have to be any finger-pointing or negativity; this is about what your family and child need in their schooling. No one or one thing has to be the bad guy; sometimes, it just isn’t working. In many ways, parents learn a lot in these early years of education on what type of school path their child needs.

What are some criteria to look for when deciding to move to another school mid-year?

• School Curriculum • Teacher certification • Staff turnover • Genuine and sincere staff • Children appear happy when you visit the school • Location • Cost Talk to Your Child’s Teacher or School Principal Reach out to your child’s class teacher or school principal to schedule a meeting or a time for a phone call. Be honest that you’re

22 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

considering a change of environment and bring up your concerns about the school.

Keep in mind that you only see one side of the story as a parent and that they might have valuable insights to share about your child’s life at school. Once you’ve laid out your concerns, listen carefully to their response and ask them whether they have any suggestions for improving the situation.

If you aren’t convinced that change will be possible and still have the same desire to make a move, ask what the process for leaving mid-year might be.

Research, Research, Research It’s time to spring into action. Talk to friends, contact a school’s expert, call interested schools’ admissions departments, and arrange visits whenever possible. Consider academics, travel time, curriculum, cost, and pastoral approach. Most importantly, have an honest discussion with parent coordinators, teachers, and directors about the probability they will have a space for your child. Don’t necessarily take an initial “no” as a final answer, but probe to understand whether there are circumstances in which spots might open up or perhaps get on a waiting list.

Once a new school has been chosen,

mentally prepare your child for the move.

Alicia Sharpe, a New York City-based Education Consultant, says, “Mental preparation starts at home. Speak with your child about this new transition; they will understand even if they are too young to communicate with you verbally. If possible, bring your child to visit the new school, meet the teachers, and introduce them to their new classroom before the start of the new school term.”

Sharpe adds “If you have an older child, help them understand that moving schools is an exciting, fresh start. Reassure them that it’s possible to maintain friendships even when they’re at a new school, and consider how you can help them participate in activities that current friends join in.”

More Tips What behaviors should you address that would lead to a move to a new school?

• Negative social and emotional behaviors • Academic challenges or academic boredom • If your child expresses they don’t feel safe • Lack of support with special needs • Overcrowded classrooms • Poor relationship with the teacher • Likelihood of admittance

Shaping Children For a Bright Future Our Early Childhood and Preschool programs provide a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow, and develop social skills.

Our curriculum is designed for ages 18 months* – 5 years old and includes art, science, music, fitness and swimming, outdoor play, circle time, math & reading readiness skills, and so much more.

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Unlocking Children's Full Potential!

YMCA of Long Island's Before and After School Programs excel in unlocking children's full potential through a positive environment, empowering them with academic support, various activities, homework help, and more.

Learn more at YMCALI.org/childcare BAY SHORE • GLEN COVE HUNTINGTON • PATCHOGUE

January 2024 | Long Island Family

23

education

Considering a New York Catholic School

BY JACLYN GRIFFIN

I

t’s hard to imagine a decision that impacts your child’s present and future more than the decision of which school they will attend.

Academics, community, relationships, location, guiding principles—all of these are sure to influence your family’s school choice.

While considering the overwhelming number of options, it’s important for parents to understand the benefits of a Catholic school education in New York.

For more than 200 years, Catholic schools in New York have provided an education that is both academically rigorous and firmly rooted in the Catholic faith. Today, thousands of students in grades pre-K through twelve are served by the Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York. The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York describe their mission as follows: “To ensure our schools are Christ-centered, academically excellent, and welcoming communities that teach students to be life-long learners and leaders energized by fidelity to Christ, the Church, and one another.” But students need not be Catholic to attend a Catholic school; children of all faiths are welcome to experience the benefits of a Catholic school education.

The success of Catholic school students Each year, 99 percent of high school seniors from the Archdiocese of Catholic Schools will graduate, and the vast majority of these students will go on to college. When comparing scores on state tests of English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics, Catholic school students outperform New York State and City public school students, as well as most charter school students.

The Archdiocese insists that it is the Catholic approach that leads to high success rates for its students. By seeing each student as a child of God with individual needs, while simultaneously encouraging students to embrace that they are part of a larger, global community, the “stewardship of the whole person” is prioritized. In other words, stu-

24 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

dents are guided to understand their talents, find meaning in their lives, build upon their strengths, and develop self-discipline and confidence. They are not only expected but prepared and encouraged to become compassionate leaders of society. The Archdiocese reminds parents that “the Catholic school experience is an unparalleled opportunity to develop a child’s mind, heart and soul.”

Religion and academics go handin-hand What exactly do the religion classes and the traditional academic courses look like at Catholic school? The Archdiocese ensures that the ideals of the Gospel support the “substance and structure” of all lessons in Catholic schools. These students proudly share their faith through daily prayer, regular mass as a school community, and participating in Christian service.

At the same time, traditional academics at Catholic schools are grounded in the skills necessary to prepare students for success outside of school and church. These skills vary between school communities, as each group of students requires an individualized approach to reach their fullest potential. In all schools, the curricula are forward-focused and aim to make students competitive in our increasingly complex world. To do so, they incorporate technology, advanced math, hands-on science, foreign language study, and

a variety of classes in the arts.

In addition to students of all faiths being welcome to experience a Catholic school education, students of all social class backgrounds are welcome as well, as needbased scholarships are available for students and families. Students with special needs are also welcome to attend Catholic schools, and the Catholic teachings surrounding one-on-one nurturing ensure a supportive environment for students of all abilities.

What sets Catholic schools apart from the rest?

Ultimately, the values of a Catholic education work to develop a person intellectually, socially, and morally. School choice is pivotal for families, as students can sometimes spend more time with their school communities than with parents or siblings. When choosing what community will help raise their child, parents will inevitably wonder about the values of that community and how their child will soar within it. The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York aim to provide “academic excellence in a safe, nurturing environment for all [their] students, enabling them to become productive citizens for today’s society.” The unique environment offered by the Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York should certainly be considered by any parent deciding what kind of education they want for their child.

A College Preparatory School Established in 1947

The Waldorf School of Garden City, Early Childhood – Grade 12, educates the next generation of diverse global leaders through an intentional curriculum of active learning.

Experience the difference of a Waldorf Education today!

Schedule a tour by scanning the QR Code or calling Admissions at (516) 742 - 3434

New Year, New Start!

Winston Preparatory School is a leading school network for students with learning differences, including dyslexia, executive functioning difficulties (ADHD), and nonverbal learning disorders (NVLD).

Winston Prep Long Island offers Rolling Admission

inston Prep by the Numbers hours

35

Average Time Spent in one-to-one Focus Program Each Week

3 0

Overall Faculty to Student Ratio

Average Number of Students in Each Class

Learn more at winstonprep.edu

Long Island Campus

Scan the QR code to visit our LI Campus

January 2024 | Long Island Family

25

EDUCATION DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Department of Education, Diocese of Rockville Centre 128 Cherry Lane, Hicksville 516-678-5800 licatholicelementaryschools. org education@drvc.org Catholic education and evangelization on Long Island are inseparable and are faithful to Catholic moral teaching. In a world where moral values are often overlooked, the importance of integrity, compassion, and service to others is instilled daily in our students. Catholic school students excel with a strong curriculum, high standards and academic rigor allowing them to reach their full potential that prepare them for future success.

Saint Aidan School 510/525 Willis Ave, Williston Park 516-746-6585 staidanschool.org Saint Aidan School offers academic excellence, which

fosters individual growth and development according to time-tested, Catholic faithbased models of teaching and learning. Saint Aidan School provides a safe and supportive community. Saint Aidan School is accredited

by AdvancED, a researchbased recognition for high quality schools and programs.

Saint Aidan School is staffed by a faculty who spread the Word of God daily through the ministry of Catholic Education.

INDEPENDENTSCHOOLS Buckley Country Day School 2 I.U. Willets Road 516-627-1910 buckleycountryday.com cfortuna@buckleycountryday. com Buckley Country Day School is an inclusive, diverse environment that nurtures the whole child and lays the foundation for success in high school, college, and beyond.

Buckley’s mission, “Opening

26 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

The Eyes and Awakening The Mind” is at the heart of its curriculum, which seeks to inspire and prepare students for a lifetime of learning.

Buckley accepts students as young as two years old in PreNursery and admits students on a rolling basis through grade seven.

Countryside Montessori School 354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 info@cmsgn.com Countryside Montessori School offers children, 18 months to 6 years, a wellbalanced and enriched curriculum which includes traditional subjects, art, and music. They are located in an estate-like setting with an outdoor playground and surrounded by nature.

Classrooms are fully equipped and spacious. Countryside Montessori also offers camp for children ages 18 months to 6 years old. There are

morning academics for the older children and playtime for all children.

Friends Academy 270 Duck Pond Rd. 516-676-0393 friendsacademy.org admissions@fa.org Friends Academy is an outstanding K-12 college prep private school serving students from age 3 through 12th grade. Since 1876, Friends Academy has set the standard of academic excellence on Long Island.

They are the #1 ranked K-12 private school on Long Island.

Their extraordinary academic program is enhanced by timeless Quaker values and provides an exceptional education for their students, preparing them for success in college and life.

The Green Vale School 250 Valentine’s Lane Old Brookville greenvaleschool.org/ 516-621-2420

Countryside Montessori School An Education Where Children Thrive Under the Guidance of Great Teachers in an Environment that Stimulates Creativity and Individual Potential!

Our fullyequipped, spacious classrooms offer the most enriched curriculum available for 18 mos – 6 yrs

with the American Montessori Society since 1988

•Spacious playground •Large classrooms •Low teacher-student ratio •Early drop-off and extended day available

We’re so Social

Follow us @newyorkfamily on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and tag us #newyorkfamily in your NYC adventures!

To ensure a safe environment, we are taking all precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID 354 Lakeville Road, Great Neck, NY 516-466-8422 | www.CMSGN.com January 2024 | Long Island Family

27

EDUCATION DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

admissions@greenvaleschool. org Green Vale is Long Island’s largest preeminent private school for Pre-Nursery (age 2) to 8th grade. Families from some of NY’s top school districts choose Green Vale for its exceptional academics taught in a joyful atmosphere. Coupled with dynamic offerings, including theater and music instruction, STEAM and technology, interscholastic sports, and leadership and character building. GVS graduates go on to excel at top secondary schools and elite colleges.

The Hagedorn Little Village School Jack Joel Center for Special Children 750 Hicksville Road, Seaford 516-520-6000 littlevillage.org jon.feingold@littlevillage.org The Hagedorn Little Village School is a not-for-profit school highly regarded

for providing outstanding educational and therapeutic services for children with a wide range of developmental disabilities. HLVS provides year-round programs and services that include diagnostic evaluations and treatment, early intervention, a preschool, an elementary school, SEIT and related services.

The Knox School 541 Long Beach Road knoxschool.org 631-686-1600 kcbush@knoxschool.org The Knox School is Long Island’s oldest established private school. Their inclusive environment serves grades 6-12 and post-graduate, providing students with broad world perspectives and a wide range of skills.

At Knox, each student’s potential is unlocked and maximized because of the boundless experiences Knox education provides. Whether your child is an aspiring

engineer or entrepreneur, artist or architect, performer or physicist, a Knox education unlocks every student’s potential and prepares them for success after high school.

Lawrence Woodmere Academy 336 Woodmere Blvd., Woodmere 516-374-9000 lawrencewoodmere.org jkim@lawrencewoodmere.org Lawrence Woodmere Academy “LWA”, founded in 1912, is a Pre-K through 12th grade, non-sectarian, Elite Private College Preparatory School. LWA is an International School offering a Global Scholars Certificate and has a strong history and reputation of educating and preparing students for the Top Universities in the United States. Meet with the faculty, tour the campus and learn how Lawrence Woodmere Academy will help your child get ahead.

Park Shore Country Day School 450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 parkshoredayschool.com info@parkshoredaycamp.com Park Shore Country Day School is a beacon of preschool educational excellence, providing a dynamic and nurturing environment for students to flourish. With a rich history and commitment to holistic development, the school cultivates a love for learning while fostering creativity and critical thinking. Dedicated educators and state-of-theart facilities make Park Shore a premier choice for families seeking a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.

The Waldorf School of Garden City 225 Cambridge Avenue, Garden City 516-742-3434 admissions@waldorfgarden. org

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28 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

waldorfgarden.org The Waldorf School of Garden City educates the next generation of leaders through an innovative and age-appropriate curriculum that builds on 75+ years of dynamic learning and 100+ years of Waldorf education.

Winston Preparatory School Long Island 30 Deforest Road Dix Hills 631-779-2400 winstonprep.edu/ourcampuses/long-island mbellantoni@winstonprep.edu Winston Prep Long Island offers a highly individualized learning environment for students grades 4-12 with learning differences, including dyslexia, ADHD, and nonverbal learning disabilities (NVLD). Winston Prep fosters a learning environment where each student feels understood.

Winston Prep’s researchdriven model for students with learning differences results in extraordinary

transformations in their lives and learning. Register for an Open House or contact the Director of Admissions, Michele Bellantoni, for learn more.

YMCA of Long Island Early Child and Preschool Programs 121 Dosoris Ln, Glen Cove 855-296-2254 ymcali.org/childcare childcare@ymcali.org YMCA of Long Island Early Childhood and Preschool programs provide a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow, and develop social skills.

The curriculum is designed for ages 18 months to 5 years old and includes art, science, music, fitness and swimming, outdoor play, circle time, math & reading readiness skills, and so much more. Visit on January 25th from 5-7pm for the Preschool Open House.

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January 2024 | Long Island Family

29

SCHOOL LEADERS

SCHOOL LEADERS ACTIVITIES DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

T

hey say it takes a village to raise a child, and we agree! A large part of that “village” is, of course, the people your child meets throughout their educational journey. Each new school a child attends comes with new staff, new friends, new experiences and new opportunities for growth and development. That’s why it’s up to each school’s leader to ensure that every student they enroll is flourishing to the best of their abilities. The education professionals below serve as exemplary leaders in their respective school communities. They each work tirelessly to ensure not only the academic success of their students, but the social and emotional success as well. That’s what sets a great leader apart, after all! Learn all about the person who might be at the forefront of your child’s next educational adventure below.

Friends Academy Paul Stellato, Head of School

Paul Stellato is the 25th Head of School at Friends Academy and brings a record of leadership, scholarship, and visionary practice. Paul is a passionate educator with a distinguished career in boarding and day schools; including two previous headships of independent schools at North Cross School, a day school in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and recently in a transformational, 15-year tenure as Head of School at Princeton Day School in Princeton, New Jersey.

Buckley Country Day School

The Green Vale School

Jean-Marc Juhel, Head of School

Jesse Dougherty, Head of School

Jean-Marc Juhel was named Buckley’s head of school in 2002. A lifelong learner, he is proud to lead a school community that always puts children first, prioritizes critical thinking, and strives to prepare students for lives of purpose. Dr. Juhel earned a master’s degree from Teachers College, Columbia University and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from The University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Juhel served as President of the New York State Association of Independent Schools.

Since 2015, Jesse Dougherty, Ed.D, has led The Green Vale School as Head of School. With 28 years in education, he held positions from English teacher to School Director across five different schools. Each institution shaped his outlook on teaching and learning and what it means to students and the community.

His goal: to prepare students for the future, fostering a community grounded in confident humility, teamwork, and accountability— principles that define his leadership style.

Countryside Montessori School

The Hagedorn Little Village School

Mary Ann Pastorelli, Owner

Jon Feingold, Executive Director

Mary Ann Pastorelli has been working at Countryside Montessori School for 18 years. 10 of those years she has owned the school. She has a true passion and dedication to all of her students and loves what she does. When asked why she wanted to become the owner her response was “I wanted to help make a difference in the children’s lives. Seeing them progress and how far they come is the reason I love doing what I do.”

Dr. Jon Feingold has been with The Hagedorn Little Village School for nearly 30 years, serving as Executive Director since 2009. He is proud to work with a highly skilled and compassionate staff that are dedicated to providing the highest quality special education and therapeutic services to students and families. Dr. Feingold enjoys the collaboration and support of HLVS’ Board of Directors, Parent Association, and extended community that are equally committed to the school’s mission.

Diocese of Rockville Center

The Knox School

Pamela Sanders, Superintendent

Virginia Riccardi, Head of School

Mrs. Pamela Sanders has worked in education in the Diocese of Rockville Centre for more than 20 years. Prior to taking the position of Superintendent of Schools, Pam served as principal of Holy Name of Mary School in Valley Stream and Assistant Principal at St. Edward the Confessor School in Syosset.

Pam received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from St. Joseph’s College, and a Masters Degree in School Building Leadership from LIU, Post.

30 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

With over three decades of educational expertise, Virginia Riccardi leads Knox as Head of School.

Her transformational leadership style empowers her team, resulting in Knox students unlocking their hidden potential. At Knox since 2011, Mrs. Riccardi served in various capacities, including Development, and Academics, before her six-year term as Assistant Head. Holding an M.A. from Columbia University’s Teacher’s College and a B.A. from Stony Brook University, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her leadership.

Lawrence Woodmere Academy Hank Williams, Head of School

Mr. Hank Williams is currently completing my 32nd year as an educator. He has served 25 of those years in administrative leadership on the lower, middle, and upper school levels.

He has been a successful teacher, dean, assistant principal, and principal across all levels of K-12 education. He is confident that as the community gets to know him, we will trust and embrace him as your Head of School/Basketball Coach at Lawrence Woodmere Academy.

FREE Parenting Webinars Sign up now!

Park Shore Country Day School Dianne Vitucci, Education Director

Dianne Vitucci, the dedicated Education Director at Park Shore Country Day School, boasts an impressive tenure of over 35 years.

Her unwavering commitment to fostering a nurturing educational environment has left an indelible mark on Park Shore. Dianne’s wealth of experience and passion for guiding students toward academic excellence make her an invaluable leader at Park Shore, shaping the educational landscape for decades.

Winston Preparatory School of Long Island

Nurturing the Healing Power of Play for Ourselves and for Our Children Amelia Bachleda, Ph.D., and Mike Browne Tuesday, Jan. 23 , 2023, 4 p.m. ET

Keith Oncale, Head of School

Keith Oncale has been a member of the Winston Prep faculty since 1999. Today, he is the Head of School at Winston Prep Long Island, located in Dix Hills. Since opening its doors in 2018, Winston Prep’s expert faculty have helped countless Long Island students with learning differences thrive as independent learners.

Check us out Online!

Conscious: Curious, Connected Discipline Strategies for Happier, Healthier Kids Julietta Skoog, Ed.S. Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, 4 p.m. ET

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31

travel

Rethinking the

Family vacation Discover intentional travel — a new kind of family travel

By Evan FrEEd

W

hat is a family vacation for?

Is it to rest on a beach next to the ocean? Is it to not have to think about cooking or cleaning? Is it to see the world? Is it to create memories, like in Disneyworld… or maybe to find space to love yourself, your partner, and your kids in ways your everyday life doesn’t allow? Hmm. You didn’t see that one coming, did you?

When we are in the grind of our day-to-day lives, we have places to be and things to do. So, we demand a lot—a lot of ourselves, our partners if we have one, and our children. I’m guilty of this as well! Pick that up, fix this, do that, go here, ah, not that! Commands and demands.

After some intense time of demand, how often do you think, “What just happened? Wow, that whole interaction felt crappy.” But it’s not your fault, well, not entirely. Society has helped us create a world without time to do what needs to get done. And even less time to share the love that we so deeply want. You want to express love for your family and yourself because it fuels you. It’s what makes some vacations so addicting.

What if there was a way to plan travel so you intentionally made space to love yourself, your partner, and your family more? Getting that feeling of love that makes vacation what we need. That nourishes us. So, that euphoric feeling of being loved is not just a happy accident but thoughtfully planned and curated with some beautiful happenstance. That is the new kind of family travel that I’m talking about.

Intentional travel and love on tap. Corny, maybe, but so much better than whatever else you’re tapping into.

So, let’s bring this back down to earth again. Often, we love vacation because it opens up space for the love we don’t have time to feel in our lives. And we love ‘love’ because of the chemicals it creates in our bodies. When we feel loved, oxytocin, the love chemical, floods our body, accompanied by dopamine (the drug replaced with social media), mixed with some

32 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

serotonin and endorphins. All that good stuff.

So, how do we craft a family vacation to help us feel all those awesome natural drugs? Here are my cliff notes on the steps to take!

Step One Tapping into that love you desire requires the right setting and mindset. Unfortunately, some of us are too wound up and stressed, and our vacation is another manifestation of that angst. So, feeling that love doesn’t happen. However, there is a chance it still can. That’s why intentional vacations require some pre-travel work, like working with a travel coach who can help you think through some questions or by going through them yourself. Those questions include: What would you enjoy doing on a family vacation?

How do you make sure you can get that enjoyment from the trip? What would get in the way of the trip being enjoyable for you?

What lessons or experiences would you like to bring home with you? Wait, wait, wait.

Maybe you’re thinking, More work to plan a family vacation!? Even if I wanted to, I didn’t have time for that. This new way of planning a family trip may sound like a lot of work.

However, there are people who help create these trips, like me. Also, when planning a family trip, you know you will finally enjoy and get nourishment- the planning process can surprisingly fill you up with.

Step Two The most significant phase is planning. It’s us planning the trip intentionally to create more space to do what you desire. This helps us make sure the trip is not just catered to your partner, kids, family, etc. Knowing your desires from step one, the location becomes easier. If we want to be immersed in nature and trees and spend time alone listening to the wild, then we know we want to be by the mountains or in the jungle. So, we start by doing some research there. If we know it is essential to have childcare for our children, then that becomes a focal point.

Also, childcare can come from a kids club, local schooling group, or a local The last two options are a more culturally immersive way of child care and your view of education and travel might just change as well. If this sounds like too much, use those hotel kids’ campsuse what works for you.

When planning intentional trips I like to focus on four different activity types.

Rest: • Genuine rest, not phone-scrolling or day drinking.

• Essential for fully enjoying family vacations.

• Focus on being rested and restored for a fulfilling experience.

Adventure/Comfort Zone: • Pushing boundaries enhances the trip’s impact. Example: Challenging hikes and cliff jumping create lasting memories.

• Embrace your version of pushing comfort zones.

Serving Others: • Acknowledge traveling on others’ lands; aim to give back.

• Simple acts like beach cleanup foster a connection with the local community.

• Serving local populations, such as indigenous groups, contributes positively.

• Cultivate empathy in children through meaningful service experiences.

Eating: • Food can transform parenting styles and enhance cultural experiences.

• Learn from Anthony Bourdain: Food is a gateway to culture.

• Choose intentionally—whether in local spots, fine dining, or all-inclusive settings.

• Allow flexibility, knowing plans can evolve based on family preferences.

Step Three To enjoy your intentional family vacation, there are three points to remember when traveling.

Be flexible: Things change, and if we’ve done some pre-work of working through our anxiety around travel, this part may be a bit easier.

Don’t forget yourself: You or an expert has planned the family trip so that you can enjoy it and feel the love you crave. So, ensure that all that work doesn’t fall apart and that you’re not putting others before yourself.

Be kind to yourself, and make the shift to making your happiness a priority.

Intervention: If this trip feels like all other trips, you may need a trip shake-up.

Have a friend or family member who is

either on the trip with you or on speed dial at home. They know the plan pre-trip and can be a good person to call to vent to and think through ways to make the trip enjoyable.

You have a travel planner/coach who has helped you plan this intentional trip and is there to help you experience the trip you desire and deserve. That coach will have some awesome emotion-regulating tools and ideas to help.

Step Four This step is the post-trip integration. Integration what? I just went on vacation and have to get the kids ready for school, catch up with work, and return to life? See now that is part of the problem! We want to vacate our life to recharge, but then we come back home, and that relaxation we felt and the connection we cultivated evaporates in one second. So, how do we hold onto it productively? It’s similar to what my meditation teacher always tells us.

That when we leave the meditation cushion to take that love and feeling we’ve cultivated and hold it in our hearts as long as possible. It will eventually diminish, but that spark that we carried with us for however long impacted us and the people we came into contact with.

So, here are a few ways to integrate your trip: Give yourself a day or two of padding

before you have to go back to work or school.

That may be planning your trip to end on a Thursday so you can travel back home and get settled.

Plan some activities to do with your family and by yourself when you arrive home such as writing down the experiences you took away from the trip. Or talk about the moments you enjoyed, what the feelings were in the moment that made you love them, and how you can cultivate those feelings at home Print some pictures from the trip. Print out some pictures of moments where love was present for you and your family. Create a spot at home with those pictures so you and your family can visit to remind you of the feelings you had and to bring those into your everyday life.

This entire idea of the family vacation that I’m sharing is based on extreme privilege. I include this not to make guilt the primary feeling but to share awareness. It’s also to use the awareness of our privilege to allow travel to become a tool for personal and family growth and to positively impact the people and cultures we come into contact with. That is what being intentional is all about gratitude for what we have and knowing that we can and will serve ourselves, our family, and the world. This new way of family travel is a tool to tap into that. And while these may be lofty goals. Remember to do what feels good for you, your family, and your nervous system. It may just be one point from each step, or you just tackle one step entirely. Whatever it is, do what feels good and right.

My name Is Evan Freed. I am a parent and partner dedicated to living a life full of joy, adventure, and healing. In 2012 I lost my mother to ovarian cancer, which changed the trajectory of my life. I realized that I wanted to live by my terms, and the way to do so was through deep meditation, self-discovery, and self-love.

In 2021 I took a month-long trip to Costa Rica with my wife and daughters, then three and five. During that trip, we felt freedom, love, and a deep connection that we had not yet experienced as a family. It was similar to the feeling I had with my parent’s brother right before my mom passed. I realized that travel brings up similar feelings of appreciation for life as death does. So during that trip, I decided to bring that feeling of awe and love for this life to other families to help them heal, connect and grow.

I now lead group and private retreats worldwide (Familyjourney.co) with families ready to explore a different way of connecting and living.

January 2024 | Long Island Family

33

Flying High

Kristi Hemric @khemric on solo travels, her journey as a mom of four, and expert tips for traveling with young kids

By Mia SalaS

T

ravel can be a beautiful experience, opening up our eyes to new worlds and shaping new memories. But traveling with young kids? That’s another story. And I got to hear all about it from Kristi Hemric, travel photographer and mother of four little ones in New York City.

You may have seen Kristi’s many adventures both in and outside of the city on her popular Instagram account where she shares about work, family, and travels with over 400K followers. But what you don’t see is the behind-the-scenes that we all can relate to as NYC parents: Kristi and her husband calming their sons down in the airport with their favorite blanket. Prepping for a trip with kids by treating the NYC subway like the airport chaos. Coordinating schedules ahead of big solo trips. Learning, changing and revising constantly to find the right balance that works for the whole family.

Yet what I learned about Kristi through our conversation is that she’s creative. Her creative energy powers her photography, but it also inspires other parts of her life.

She’s able to see things others can’t, turning random ads around the city in art, bringing her kids’ wishes to life and finding the special moments in each trip. So when it comes to parenting four kids all under the age of 3 on the Upper East Side, Kristi’s got it because she finds creative ways to make it work and enjoy every second along the way.

Read on for Kristi’s pro travel tips for families, work-life balance advice, and her favorite family-friendly travel destinations!

Tell us more about your passion for traveling. What interests you about it?

I love new things and I really love learning. You can learn so much about a country

34 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

or a place just by getting lost in it. Obviously now, with the news and social media, it makes the world feel a little bit smaller. But we’re only given a small glimpse of what that place is like, or what social media wants us to think that place is like. You can only understand a place and the people by spending time there.

I’m going to India at the end of January, I’ll probably be there for three weeks. That’s one of my longer trips because I do have a lot of kids and I want to be home with them. I know people think it’s a little bit crazy that I travel often, but I try to be positive. I used to be in an office from nine to five and had work trips on top of that. So I just look at it as I take these seven-day kicks where I do a ton of work.

And then when I’m home, I have the rest of the month to be very present with my children.

Speaking of, you’re a photographer and a mom of 4 young kids. How do you balance work and life?

I have to give a lot of credit to my husband. I have a very supportive husband who encourages me and knows that traveling makes me me. He loves me, so he wants me to continue doing it.

We also live by a schedule, and it doesn’t work for everybody, but we really don’t flex that schedule with our children unless it’s a special occasion. Our kids wake up at 7:30am or 8am, and they go to bed at 6:30pm.

They are obviously tired because they run around all day ragged and go to sleep right away. But that gives us so much time from 6:30pm to when we go to bed at 11pm. That’s almost 4 and a half hours that my husband and I can be together.

You mentioned you’re a creative person.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I’d say everything. My ideas come at the most random of times. I’m out and about all

the time in the city, just taking in things. I’ll be on the train and see something, and be like, whoa, that would be a great Apple ad.

Also sometimes my kids will say the funniest things. For example, on Halloween, I asked my son what he wanted to be, and he said he wanted to be a candy farmer. We made that whole thing into something– a candy farmer, how genius; why couldn’t you farm candy? We literally bought a tractor and put it outside of our townhouse with candy. It was hilarious.

Ultimately, I think it’s just having our eyes and ears open, just being present with people. I know that sounds silly, but I don’t get most of my ideas from other social media.

I’ve grown a large Instagram following, but I don’t know if you’ve noticed I never really post stories. I know that stories are something that you’re supposed to do in the moment, but I don’t have my phone out recording it all the time. If that means I’m being more present with people, and I don’t get to story it for my audience, I think that’s almost better.

Have you ever traveled with your kids?

Yes. I don’t take them on huge work trips because I don’t know how my kids would do with jet lag, or how I could actually work. But we do shorter trips. This summer, after I had the twins, we went to the Dominican Republic, and I just took the boys, who are ages 3 and 1. It was a big adjustment for them with the twins, and I’m very conscious of making sure they all have individual time and special memories. That’s really important to me.

I’ve also traveled with the boys all over the States, like Boston, Florida, Texas. This year we’ve put a pause on it because I have 4 kids under age 3. I think it’ll be more enjoyable for the whole family if we wait.

Based on the travel that you did do with your two boys, do you have any tips for

Photo by Michelle Rose Photo

traveling with kids?

Yeah, have a plan. Before we did a big trip with the boys, we did small trips through the city. We’d go on the train and make the subway a big deal so it’s almost like a crash course for the chaos of the airport. We’re not big on screen time, but the older one will get an iPad for maybe 20-minute shows. We also have their favorite snacks, and we’ll buy 3 or 4 new, tiny toys that’ll distract them in a meltdown situation. The other things are just basics.

Have whatever soothes your child. For us, it’s a Lovey. We bring the Lovey everywhere because it soothes our boys in any situation.

That’s great. Finally, can you tell us why you love living in NYC? I love NYC for so many reasons. I come

from a small town outside of Dallas, and there’s not much diversity. My kids are going to get to see all different kinds of cultures, people, and walks of life. That’s honestly one of the best gifts I can give my kids. There’s a lot going on in the world that’s not necessarily great, but I think we all have a common goal, and sometimes that gets lost with people’s differences.

Living in NYC is also so convenient. I know people are like, oh my gosh, the spaces are too small. But think about it. Our doctor’s office is a block away. Our dry cleaner is on this block. Our coffee shop is on the same block.

If we get a blizzard tomorrow, everything we need is most likely at a 4-block radius. And how convenient is that as a mom? Also, on the Upper East Side, there are so many parks

for kids and free activities for kids. When it’s raining, you just take the bus to the Natural History Museum, and it’s free– one of the best museums in the world! Kids have this wider understanding of the world because they have access to many different experiences, people, and stories.

It also pushes you to go outside all the time and be more active. As New Yorkers, we might not go to the gym every day, but we don’t need to, because we’re walking around constantly.

At my child’s Jewish preschool, they have this cute saying– “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.” Our kids go outside every day, no matter the weather.

This story has been edited for brevity and clarity; for the full story, go to newyorkfamily.com.

January 2024 | Long Island Family

35

calendar

BY SHARA LEVINE

NASSAU

First Day Hike WHEN: Jan. 1, 10 am – 3 pm WHERE: Jones Beach State Park, Field 10, 585 Bay Pkwy, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: Learn all about the seals that visit Long Island when you walk along the beach and scope out these magnificent marine mammals!

WANT TO GO?: Free. parks. ny.gov

Harlem Globetrotters 2024 World Tour WHEN: Jan. 1, 1 pm WHERE: UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: See the Globetrotter stars as they reach new levels of mind-blowing trick shots, expert ball-handling skills, and big laughs.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $41.40. harlemglobetrotters. com

Long Island Nets vs Westchester Knicks WHEN: Jan. 3, 7 pm WHERE: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Tpke, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Be there for an exciting match up between two local teams when the Long Island Nets take on the Westchester Knicks!

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $20.80. nassaucoliseum.com

Disney on Ice presents Find Your Hero WHEN: Jan. 4-7, see website for schedule WHERE: UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Experience world-class ice skating, iconic music, and

Disney On Ice: Find Your Hero glides into the UBS Arena this month. stunning costumes featuring some of your favorite Disney characters.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $36. disneyonice.com

Drone Fly-In WHEN: Jan. 12, 7 – 9 pm WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Fly around the F-11A Blue Angel in the museum’s atrium with a Microdrone at the Drone Fly-in! Plus, check out a showcase of awesome flying, exhibits and activities.

WANT TO GO?: $5-$20. cradleofaviation.org

Olaf and Frosty’s Snowball Fight WHEN: Jan. 13, 10 am – 12 pm WHERE: United Skates of America, 1276 Hicksville Road, Seaford

36 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

AGES: All WHAT: Come out for an epic showdown and get ready to dodge, duck, and throw snowballs in this thrilling event.

WANT TO GO?: $15; $7 skate rental; $6 non-skating adult. unitedskates.com

Rainbow Fish the Musical WHEN: Starting Jan. 13, Daily, 12 – 1 pm, through Jan. 14, 2024; Jan. 13, 15, 11 am – noon.

WHERE: Bellmore Movies and Showplace, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore AGES: All ages WHAT: Go on an underwater musical adventure and learn that it’s far better to be admired for being kind than for being beautiful.

WANT TO GO?: $15. bellmoremovie.com

NY Riptide vs Panther City WHEN: Jan. 13, 7:30 pm

WHERE: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: See Long Island’s Professional Lacrosse Team take on Panther City for an exhilarating evening of the fastest game on two feet.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $29. (516) 654–8203, nassaucoliseum.com

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™ Glow Party WHEN: Jan. 20, 12:30 pm & 7:30 pm; Jan. 21, 2:30 pm.

WHERE: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Experience the thrill of watching your favorite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks in the DARK with a dazzling dance party, spectacular laser light shows and Hot Wheels toy giveaways.

JANUARY

calendar

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $34.20. hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com

Puppy Pals Live WHEN: Jan. 21, 3 pm WHERE: The Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Avenue, Rockville Centre AGES: All WHAT: You won’t believe your eyes when these adopted and rescued pooches perform spectacular stunts and breathtaking feats in this interactive show.

WANT TO GO?: $15-$30. madisontheatreny.org

SUFFOLK Wish Upon a Star Scavenger Hunt WHEN: Thursdays – Sundays, 11 am – 4 pm.

WHERE: The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Inspired by Disney’s new film “Wish,” go on a starthemed scavenger hunt in the gallery and score a glow-inthe-dark star!

WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $6-$8. cshwhalingmuseum.org

Night at the Museum WHEN: Jan. 5, 6 – 8 pm.

WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 5 – 12 WHAT: Explore, Learn, and Play after hours at the Long Island Explorium’s exclusive Night

The New York Riptide takes on Panther City at Nassau Coliseum on January 13. at the Museum event. Enjoy pizza, play at the museum after-hours, and participate in a fun STEM-themed activity. For Grades 2nd – 5th.

WANT TO GO?: $40 per adult/child. (631) 331–3277, longislandexplorium.org

Reza: Edge of Illusion WHEN: Jan. 5, 8 pm WHERE: Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 East Main Street, Patchogue AGES: All WHAT: This show features incredible cutting-edge magic, state of the art production elements, masterful comedic timing, and numerous interactive & inspirational moments.

WANT TO GO?: $45-$75. (631) 207–1313, patchoguetheatre.org

Science Saturday: Lego Machine Engineers WHEN: Jan. 6, 1 – 2 pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 401 Tanger Mall Drive, Riverhead AGES: 5 – 12 WHAT: Learn about simple machines and create your own working Lego technology!

WANT TO GO?: $20; $15 accompanying adult; free for members. sciencecenterli.org

Jack and the Beanstalk WHEN: Starting Jan. 20, Saturdays, 11 am, through Feb. 3, 2024; Jan. 28, 3 pm.

WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: You know the story, now see it come to life on stage in this hilarious original musical.

WANT TO GO?: $12. (631) 473– 5220, theatrethree.com

Superheroes of the Sky WHEN: Jan. 20, 11 am – noon.

WHERE: Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: See and learn about the turkey vultures, owls, hawks and many more.

WANT TO GO?: $10; $5 ages 11 and younger. (631) 979–6344, sweetbriarnc.org

Catch The Wizard of Oz at Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington on January 28.

Disney Frozen, Jr. WHEN: Jan. 27-March 3,

Saturdays, 10 am, Sundays, 10:30 am.

WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: All WHAT: This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart!

WANT TO GO?: $20. engemantheater.com

Stony Brook Men’s Basketball vs. UNC Wilmington WHEN: Jan. 27, 4 pm WHERE: Island Federal Arena, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Take in a game of college basketball and cheer on the home team!

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $20. stonybrookathletics.com

Cinema for Kids: The Wizard of Oz WHEN: Jan. 28, noon WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Escape the cold and travel to the wonderful land of Oz in this classic musical fantasy with Dorothy, The Scarecrow, Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and of course, Toto.

WANT TO GO?: $13; $7 members; $5 kids. (631) 423– 7610, cinemaartscentre.org

January 2024 | Long Island Family

37

Travel

TWA Hotel

Jetsetting at the Iconic TWA Hotel

L

ocals and travelers to New York love the NYC experience. This is why we landed at the TWA Hotel, the only on-airport hotel at JFK International Airport in New York City when it came to our January cover with mom and world traveler Kristi Hemric.

It’s easy to understand why visitors around the globe stay at this retro-chic hotel; whether before a flight or post-trip, a stay here is not only a vibe, it’s a whole experience.

Once you walk in, you haven’t time traveled; you have entered one of late famed FinnishAmerican architect Eero Saarinen’s landmark designs, which once served as a Trans World Airlines Flight Center. And for us parents, the TWA Hotel also serves as a staycation with the kids any day of the year. No car necessary!

Our subway and AirTran journey to the hotel from the city took a little over an hour, doorto-door (although drivers are welcome; there is parking at the hotel).

Why We Love It Guests can enjoy expansive rooms with cool views. No time for an overnight stay? Families can book a Daytripper stay for four hours from 6 AM to 8 PM ET for a minimum of four hours and a maximum of 12 hours. And no judgment here when you make yourself at home in this 1960s iconic structure and enjoy its modern amenities, order a martini, lounge in the iconic Sunken Lounge while an authentic Solari split flap departures board clicks about.

One of our favorite amenities is the food; a

38 NewYorkFamily.com | January 2024

TWA Hotel

few standouts we loved were the Intelligentsia Coffee (for the adults), Vinny’s Panini for the family, and The Paris Café by Jean-Georges for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Why The Kids Will Love It Kids will forget about their electronics as they busy themselves exploring charming pockets like immersive museum exhibits and the Sweet’N Glow hair salon- where they can relax under the vintage beehive hair dryer and then have some twisty fun in the Twister room. For more enjoyment, the hotel includes

an observation deck that supplies panoramic views of the airport runways — perfect for kids fascinated by airplanes and aviation. On the hotel’s tarmac, a 1958 Lockheed Constellation “Connie” transformed into a cocktail lounge (for the adults, obviously) welcomes visitors amid seasonal activations such as a curling rink and the piece de resistance, the rooftop heated pool with a view.

TWA Hotel at JFK Airport One Idlewild Drive New York, NY 11430

• Meet Camp Directors • G

• Arts & Crafts • Free Treats • Face Painting

• Balloon Animals • Fun Photo Station • Bounce House

Sunday March 3, 2024 - 12pm to 3pm Cradle of Aviation Museum at Charles Lindbergh Blvd RSVP Now - Space is Limited www.newyorkfamily.com/CampFairs Sponsored By

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