A look at a local, family-owned business that celebrates art, family connection, and the joy of creating together
20 | Out With the Old...
Recycle and donate your kids’ old toys
34 | Laughing Through Motherhood
Comedian Alyce Chan turns parenting chaos into comedy
SPECIAL CHILD
24 | Leveling the Learning Field
Deputy Chancellor Christina Foti talks to New York Family about inclusive education in NYC public schools
26 | Success in School
Simple ways to strengthen communication and build confidence
28 | Choosing Private Schools for Neurodiverse Learners
From tailored instruction to smaller class sizes, explore how private schools help neurodiverse learners succeed
FAMILY FUN
36 | Calendar
The best family-friendly events in November for Staten Island families
48 | Birthday Club
Staten Island Parents celebrates with freebies on your little one’s big day!
HOLIDAY
8 | Holiday Light Shows
Light up the holiday season with NYC’s most magical displays
16 | Family Traditions
Family, food, and the ties that bind
18 | A Christmas Spectacular for All Inclusive performances, sensory accommodations, and accessibility features to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday magic
DIRECTORIES
30 | Special Needs
38 | Birthday Parties ON THE COVER
Photo: Lucky Eden Photography Studio | Westwood, NJ | @luckyedenstudio | luckyedenstudio.com
’Tis the Season...of Change
For my family, fall signifies change — the start of a new chapter, new beginnings, and growth. It’s not only the seasons that change — my youngest turns a year older, and with each birthday that passes, I am faced with the realization that I am no longer mom to two little ones — I’m no longer responsible for a baby, a toddler, a preschooler, or a kindergartener.
I now have to look up to speak to my 13-yearold, and my baby is now an independent 9-year-old with endless energy, a sense of humor, and a lot of opinions. While I am proud to see how they’ve grown up to be strong, intelligent, kind, loving boys, it feels like their childhood came and went as quickly as the seasons. I can still clearly remember the time my eldest showed his then-year-old brother how to launch himself into a pile of freshly raked fall leaves and what pure joy it brought them both—and to me. While it really was not that long ago, it feels like a lifetime. It’s a simple reminder that our time to raise tiny humans may be short, but the memories we make will last for the rest of their lives.
As challenging as it is to find time after the exhaustion of our daily routines, it is important to make as much magic as possible while we have time, which is why we pack each issue with ideas for fun activities and events you could possibly do together. So, whether you’re celebrating your family’s
Thanksgiving traditions, shopping for unique holiday gifts, taking in the magic of sparkling holiday light displays across Staten Island, or planning your little one’s next birthday bash, we hope your family makes memories to last a lifetime.
Enjoy every moment,
Tara
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Lucky Eden Photography Studio
Holiday Light Shows
BY NÁOSHA GREGG & TARA LUSTBERG
Few places capture the magic of the holiday season quite like New York City and its surrounding neighborhoods, where twinkling lights, festive displays, and seasonal traditions transform streets, parks, and historic sites into a winter wonderland. From Staten Island’s beloved residential displays and Staten Island Mall’s waterfront tree lighting to Brooklyn’s glowing lantern trails, whimsical Botanical Garden shows, and New Jersey’s spectacular drive-through light festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Whether you’re seeking a grand, immersive spectacle or a cozy neighborhood stroll, these light shows and seasonal events offer festive cheer for the whole family.
STATEN ISLAND
Empire Outlets Annual Tree Lighting Empire Outlets, 55 Richmond Terrace, St. George empireoutlets.nyc
November 16
The holiday season kicks off with the annual Tree Lighting at Empire Outlets. The openair shopping center sparkles with festive décor as families gather for live music, dance performances, kids’ activities, and a visit from Santa. The evening culminates with the lighting of a towering Christmas tree overlooking New York Harbor — a perfect backdrop for photos and holiday cheer.
Escape! NYC Winter Lantern Festival at Snug Harbor
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Livingston feverup.com/m/103094
November 22 – January 12
Each winter, Snug Harbor’s historic grounds glow with oversized lanterns, illuminated tunnels, and whimsical light sculptures. Visitors can explore towering lantern sculptures, illuminated tunnels, and themed installations inspired by nature and fantasy in this walk-through experience. Perfect for
all ages, this is a standout family tradition on Staten Island. $18–$25 adults, $10–$15 children (under 3 free).
Step back in time for an old-fashioned holiday celebration at Staten Island’s historic village. Wander through twinkling streets, meet Santa, and enjoy live caroling, storytelling, and hot cocoa under the lights. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for kids.
Lights for Life: DiMartino Home
107 Sharrotts Rd., Charleston
Late November to early January
A Staten Island holiday tradition, Lights for Life turns one family’s Charleston home into a spectacular winter display of more than 100,000 lights. Created in memory of Joe DiMartino’s late wife, Debra, the show combines heart and spectacle—complete with synchronized music, illuminated scenes, and a steady stream of visitors driving by to take it all in. Admission is free, with donations benefiting Staten Island University Hospital’s children’s cancer unit.
Winter Wonderland at Staten Island Mall
Staten Island Mall, 2655 Richmond Ave., Heartland Village shopstatenislandmall.com
November 15 – December 31
The Staten Island Mall transforms into a winter wonderland filled with thousands of sparkling lights, towering ornaments, and festive décor. Families can visit Santa’s Village,
catch live entertainment, and soak up the holiday spirit. Admission is free, and photos with Santa are available for purchase.
NEW JERSEY
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale orchardoflights.com
November 22 to December 30
Set on 32 acres at Demarest Farms, this beloved drive-through display transforms the orchard into a glowing wonderland. Families can enjoy a mile-long route of shimmering lights, holiday scenes, and seasonal music—all from the warmth of their car. After the ride, visitors can stop by the farm market for hot cocoa, s’mores by the fire pits, and photos with Santa. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and pricing varies by vehicle size.
Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
Van Saun County Park’s Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus bergencountyparks.org
Late November to early January Bergen County Zoo’s “Let It Glow!” lights up Van Saun Park with larger-than-life lantern sculptures and whimsical illuminated displays. Visitors stroll through glowing tunnels, animal figures, and themed installations designed by artisans from Tianyu Arts & Culture. The walk-through event offers a magical, family-friendly outing—especially for younger kids who love animals and color.
Winter WonderLights
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick winterwonderlightshows.com
November 21 – December 28
Historic Richmond Town
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Classes take place every Tuesday from 4:30PM to 7:30PM at the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, 2555 Richmond Avenue, Suite 240
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One of New Jersey’s largest drivethrough holiday light experiences, Winter WonderLights dazzles with millions of synchronized lights, glowing tunnels, and sparkling candy-cane paths. Families can enjoy festive music via car radio while cruising through fields of illuminated displays and giant seasonal sculptures. It’s a cozy, magical outing perfect for holiday cheer from the comfort of your vehicle. $35 per car Monday to Thursday, $40 per car Friday to Sunday, $45 per car on select peak dates.
BROOKLYN
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Dyker Heights
Late November through December
What began as a neighborhood tradition has grown into one of New York’s most extravagant holiday displays. For decades, Dyker Heights residents have transformed their homes into elaborate light shows—featuring giant inflatables, mechanical reindeer, synchronized music, and thousands of sparkling bulbs covering every surface. Visitors can walk through the blocks between 11th and 13th Avenues (from 83rd to 86th Streets) or join a guided tour. It’s festive, free, and full of holiday cheer.
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden 990 Washington Ave., Crown Heights bbg.org/lightscape
November 21 to January 4
A winter tradition that feels straight out of a storybook, Lightscape transforms the Brooklyn Botanic Garden into a luminous, walkthrough art experience. International light artists reimagine the garden’s natural beauty with larger-than-life installations, glowing pathways, and dazzling effects that dance across trees, water, and sky. Families can stroll at their own pace, enjoy festive music, and stop for seasonal treats like hot cocoa and warm churros. Ticket prices vary by date and time; visit the official website for current pricing and availability.
MANHATTAN
Luminaries at Brookfield Place
Winter Garden
Brookfield Place, 230 Vesey Street, Battery Park City bfplny.com/luminaries
November 25 to January 1, Light Shows daily from 8 am to 10 pm; Wishing Stations available from 10 am to 8 pm Brookfield Place’s Winter Garden transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland with
Luminaries, an interactive light installation featuring 640 hanging lanterns that change color and brightness based on visitors’ interactions. Guests can make a wish at one of the touch-activated wishing stations, causing the lanterns to illuminate in a captivating display. Additionally, hourly light shows set to festive tunes like “Winter Wonderland” and “Let It Snow” enhance the holiday atmosphere. This magical experience is free for the public and provides a perfect chance to enjoy the holiday cheer in Lower Manhattan.
Macy’s Herald Square Christmas Windows
Herald Square, 151 West 34th St, Midtown Late November through December
Each year, Macy’s transforms its Herald Square storefront into a whimsical celebration of the season. Themed window displays feature intricate mechanical scenes, vibrant characters, and heartwarming holiday stories— delighting generations of New Yorkers and visitors alike. Families can stroll along 34th Street to admire the artistry up close, making this a beloved (and free) city tradition.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
30 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown rockefellercenter.com/holidays/ rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-lighting November 8 to Mid-January, from 5 - 12 am; Lighting Ceremony: December 3, 7 pm
Few holiday traditions capture New York’s spirit quite like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This year’s tree is a Norway Spruce from Massachusetts, arriving on November 8. Towering over the skating rink and framed by the glow of Fifth Avenue,
the tree sparkles with more than 50,000 multicolored LED lights and a Swarovski crystal star. The live lighting ceremony on December 3 features musical performances and a dose of pure New York nostalgia.
Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show
611 Fifth Ave., Midtown
Late November through early January For decades, Saks Fifth Avenue’s holiday light show has been a not-to-be-missed spectacle for Midtown visitors. Returning for the 2025 holiday season, following a one-year hiatus in 2024. The department store’s façade transforms into a canvas for a dazzling synchronized light display, set to holiday music and visible from Rockefeller Center across the street. The show is free to the public and does not require tickets or reservations. Visitors can enjoy the iconic synchronized light displays from the sidewalks along Fifth Avenue.
Modern, sleek, and glittering from every angle, Shine Bright at Hudson Yards is one of Manhattan’s most striking holiday displays. Millions of twinkling white lights drape trees, railings, and the shopping complex’s 32-foot hot air balloon centerpiece, creating an elegant glow that reflects off the surrounding glass skyline. Visitors can browse, dine, and take in the light tunnel installations for a chic, urban twist on holiday magic. Free and open to the public daily.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
BRONX
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park bronxzoo.com/holiday-lights
November 21 to January 4
A borough tradition, the Bronx Zoo brings back its famed Holiday Lights for the 2025 season. The event transforms the zoo grounds after dark into a glowing winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll through trails lit with millions of twinkling lights and hundreds of animal- and plantthemed lanterns, explore immersive zones like the “Enchanted Sea” with interactive swings and LED floors, watch ice-carving demonstrations, and even ride a holiday train. It’s a vivid and magical experience for families, offering both festive ambiance and the backdrop of wildlife, including themed lanterns.
Holiday Train Nights at New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park nybg.org/event/holiday-trainshow-2025/holiday-train-nights
Select evenings, November 22 to January 10
Celebrated for more than 30 years, the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show combines horticultural artistry and nostalgic charm—and becomes even more enchanting when the lights come on after dark. During Holiday Train Nights, Giant model trains weave through nearly 200 handcrafted replicas of New York landmarks. Guests can stroll the glowing pathways with a festive drink in hand, enjoy live entertainment, and capture picture-perfect holiday moments amid the twinkling lights.
QUEENS
Luminosa: A Festival of Light at the Queens Botanical Garden Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing queensbotanical.org
November 22 to February 2, 5 – 9 pm Luminosa transforms Queens Botanical Garden into a luminous wonderland with over 40 handcrafted lantern displays made from silk and steel. Visitors can
stroll winding paths filled with glowing flowers, animals, and fantastical scenes, all enhanced by music and seasonal décor. It’s an immersive experience perfect for families, with plenty of photo opportunities and festive cheer.
Tianyu Lights Festival: Koda’s Adventure to the Magical Forest Citi Field, Lot E & F, 41 Seaver Way, Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, Queens tianyuculture.us/nyc
November 29 to January 19, 5 pm – 10 pm
The Tianyu Lights Festival transforms Citi Field into a magical holiday wonderland with its theme, Koda’s Adventure to the Magical Forest. Visitors can explore more than 40 handcrafted lantern displays inspired by a young boy’s dreams and Amazon rainforest adventures. The festival also features a Forest Food Court with seasonal treats, live cultural performances, and a holiday marketplace. ADA accessible and perfect for families, guests are encouraged to arrive at their ticketed time slot and enjoy the lights until closing.
Come Party With Us
Celebrate your birthday in the coolest way possible at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion!
Exciting birthday party packages make planning easy with skate rentals, a private party area, pizza, drinks, and a friendly party host to keep the celebration running smoothly.
Glide, spin, and laugh together under colorful lights and upbeat music for the ultimate skating experience. Whether you’re a first-time skater or a pro, everyone will have a blast. Book your party today and celebrate in style!
emed parties and add ons available.
Staten Island Skating Pavilion
3080 Arthur Kill Rd, SI NY 718-948-4800
Allisoncuevas@thepavilion.org
LULILY Designs
A Staten Island business celebrates its three daughters’ creativity
BY ALEXA LUTTER
While browsing the 18th Annual Westerleigh Folk Festival earlier this fall, I came across a booth that immediately caught my attention and warmed my heart: LULILY Designs stood out with its adorable, thoughtfully made products and story of family, creativity, and love. Its family-focused mission is the creation of Claudette “Minnie” Brown, a Staten Island mother who turned a family ritual into something much bigger.
Family at the Heart of the Brand
Alongside her husband, Ryan, Minnie runs LULILY designs, which was inspired by their three daughters, Lily, Luna, and Lyla. “They’re the heart behind my business,” Minnie says. She explains, “The name LULILY is a blend of my daughters’ names— I designed the logo based on their Spanish celestial names. Luna Mollie is the moon, Lily Estrella is the star, and Lyla Sol is the sun. LULILY symbolizes unity, imagination, and the love that inspires every product we create.”
Each daughter brings her own spark to the brand. “Lily is my imaginative dreamer—always coming up with new ideas and drawing every day. Luna is my little hot pepper—bold, confident, and full of personality. And Lyla is my gentle soul— thoughtful, caring, and incredibly artistic for her age,” Minnie says. “She’s a special girl with whom everyone falls in love.”
The Inspiration Behind LULILY
The idea for LULILY Designs began with simple drawings before bedtime. “It started with Lily when she was just one year old,” Minnie recalls. “It was our way of calming down, doing a little art, and spending time together.”
As the family grew, so did the ritual. “When Luna came along, she wasn’t into drawing right away—she was more about creating chaos,” Minnie laughs. “But by the time she turned two, we were all drawing together. Then Lyla joined in, and she took to drawing almost instantly. She’s
ambidextrous—some days she uses her left hand, other days her right—it just depends on her mood.”
What began as a nightly bonding activity soon blossomed into something more. “Drawing and coloring became the best tools for relaxation and connection,” Minnie says. “In September 2024, I decided to take that special family tradition and turn it into something bigger. That’s when LULILY was born—with the hope that it can grow into something my daughters will share and cherish together.”
Nostalgia Meets Creativity
Minnie’s passion for design is deeply rooted in her own childhood. “I’ve always been obsessed with paper and stickers—I’m an ’80s baby! Growing up, nothing made me happier than getting a new sticker sheet or fresh stationery,” she says. “At LULILY, we’ve turned that nostalgia into something fun for today.”
The brand offers stationery, stickers, bookmarks, apparel, room décor, and gifts, with a new line of activity books for toddlers on the way. “I want the next generation to experience that same simple joy of creating, collecting, and expressing themselves,” Minnie explains.
Empowered by Art
For Minnie, the most rewarding part of running LULILY Designs has been sharing her family’s story and watching her daughters’ faces light up when they see their artwork transformed into products. But one part of
the story is especially close to her heart.
“Lyla, has a rare condition called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Type 5—brittle bone disease,” Minnie shares. “Part of the reason I was drawn even more deeply to art was to create a safe outlet for her as she grows. It’s challenging to tell a toddler, ‘No, you can’t do that,’ because the risk of a broken bone is always there. But with art, she has the freedom to be herself, explore, and bring her fun and creative ideas to life without limitations.”
Her older sisters have been her biggest cheerleaders. “Lily and Luna have been such tremendous support for her, encouraging her and helping to build her confidence every step of the way,” Minnie says. “Watching the three of them create together has been my greatest joy and inspiration.”
Encouraging Creativity
Minnie hopes other parents will find similar joy in nurturing their children’s creativity. “My advice is to embrace your child’s creativity—whenever possible, embrace it with them,” she says. “Lily and Luna take art classes at the Art Lab at least once a year, and it’s always such a rewarding experience. Art isn’t just about making something pretty; it builds confidence, patience, and problemsolving skills. When parents get involved, it becomes a bonding experience that empowers kids. You’ll be amazed at how much they can surprise and inspire you.”
Shop LULILY Designs at LulilyDesigns.com and on Instagram @lulilydesigns.
Family Traditions
One clan’s intergenerational Thanksgiving customs
By Drew Kramer
“Lifting a turkey is a big event,” my mother admits. She accepted the responsibility of hosting Thanksgiving this year, a holiday she owned every year since I was a child. Growing up, Thanksgiving was my favorite holiday. My older cousins made their pilgrimage from upstate New York to stay with us for the long weekend. Our family came together from all corners of Long Island to honor a day celebrating gluttony and our country’s complicated colonial history.
Like good Americans, in the kitchen we trust. In the wee morning hours, during the “ugly phase” of the holiday preparation, the ritual dressing of the bird took center stage. “18 pounds of pure poultry,” my mother announced in her annual impersonation of Julia Child, your French chef. As the years went by, the size of the bird ebbed and flowed with the loss and gain of family. In recent years, with the expansion of our modern family to include step-brothers, in-laws, and 10 grandchildren, the invite list hovers around 30.
After raising her hand to host in a family group text, I messaged my mother separately to assure her that I was up to the task if she decided she wasn’t, even the day before. Since moving to suburbia four years ago, I’ve stepped up to bring family together when she could not.
My mother is a caretaker. In the 20 years since my stepfather’s Parkinsons diagnosis, my mother’s capacity to find joy in the manual labor of the holidays waned. “I feel like I have reached a point in my life where I recognize that, mentally and physically, I cannot do what I used to do. My husband is ill. I find myself anxious at the thought of a big event,” she acknowledged. In the irreverent, dark humor we share, she declares, “I pass the torch. The old gray mare ain’t what she used to be.”
When I mention my 30 person holiday guest list, people are shocked by my appetite to take on extra work while raising two young boys. Yes, the torch comes with domestic
responsibility, but with great responsibility comes great purpose. Like my mother, I feel the magic in bringing family together for joy. It is important to me to bring familiar faces and flavors to my table in the name of tradition and kinship. It is important to me to provide a forum for cousins to come together for mischief and forward momentum. If their relationships fade, so too do the ties that connect our people for generations to come.
Someday, when I’ve passed the torch to my children and theirs, I hope they’ll draw from the menu of family recipes that filled our bellies and hearts in the warmest moments of a calendar year: Cousin Dineen’s kugel; my late Aunt Debbie’s carrot soufflé; my mother’s turkey. These are the flavors that bind.
Everyone does their part to keep the party alive. As a spectator, my mother is happy to bring whatever she can to ease the pain of hosting the holidays. She delights in making her signature dishes the family craves without the stress of planning and cleaning. In corners of my basement, I squirrel away folding tables and chairs. I Pinterest compostable tablescapes because I cannot sacrifice style or sustainability, while prioritizing ease in executing a celebration for 30. My family comes with food in hand, rolling up their sleeves to clean a platter and unclog the drain. The
holidays teach me that I am not alone in this.
In the wake of Covid isolation, I am a conduit for connection. After years of uncomfortable distance, we are all making up for lost time. In this season of my life, I find purpose in bringing people together. As my Millennial generation grows into middle adulthood, our Boomer parents move into their golden years. This holiday season, many of us are grappling with the weight of the torch we’ve inherited. As a family leader, sandwiched between young children and aging parents, I urge you to rise to the occasion. Fight through the host anxiety, culinary pressure and cleaning exhaustion for the important milestones of the year. Let people bring food and pull up their sleeves in the kitchen. Use paper plates. Ask for help and watch relationships grow through the shared creation of this beautiful moment. When the dishes are cleared, the leftovers stored, and the grandchildren are taking apart your couch to erect a fort, sit back with your wine and know that you too are building something. Feel gratitude and connection to the generations of family that roasted the turkeys that brought all of you to this day. Know that someday, when the pounds of pure poultry become too great for you to carry, you will lean on the foundation you and generations of others established to keep the family flame ablaze.
A Spectacular Holiday Season for All
This year’s Christmas Spectacular brings extra magic with a full slate of accessible offerings
By Jana Beauchamp
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Radio City Music Hall, where the Rockettes light up the stage for the 2025 Christmas Spectacular. This season is extra special as the Rockettes celebrate their 100th anniversary with a full lineup of accessibility offerings, ensuring every guest can experience the magic of Christmas. Families can look forward to the production’s third annual sensoryfriendly performance in partnership with the Theatre Development Fund (TDF), along with select shows featuring open captioning, audio descriptions, American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, and more.
The Christmas Spectacular’s third annual sensory-friendly performance, presented in partnership with TDF, will take place on November 9 at 10 am. This year’s production features thoughtful modifications such as softer stage lighting, lowered audio levels, and additional house lighting to create a more comfortable experience. Guests can also visit Radio City Music Hall’s Grand Lounge, which will be transformed into a sensory-safe
space with soft seating and fidget tools to help guests reorient if needed. Dedicated staff members from TDF and Radio City Music Hall, trained in sensory needs, will be on-site to provide support throughout the event.
Radio City Music Hall and The Christmas Spectacular offer a variety of accessibility services to ensure more guests can experience the joy and thrills of the show. VITAC closed captioning, assistive listening devices, and relay calls made through a TTY machine are available at every performance. In addition, ASL interpreters will be present at four performances this season: Saturday, Nov. 15, and Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 11 am; Sunday, Dec. 7, at 6 pm; and Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 8 pm. An open-captioned performance will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 5 pm, and an audio-described performance will be offered on Thursday, Dec. 11, at 5 pm.
This season, Radio City, in partnership with KultureCity, the world’s leading nonprofit dedicated to sensory accessibility and acceptance, has unveiled the newly renovated Chris & Veronica Jackson Sensory Room. Open during all public events, the room offers
a calm and welcoming retreat for anyone who may feel overwhelmed by the excitement of the festivities. Thoughtfully designed with the holiday spirit in mind, it features adjustable lighting, cozy seating, calming visuals, and full wheelchair accessibility. Families can also take comfort knowing that sensory bags with fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones, and other resources are available at every event, and all guest-facing staff have completed KultureCity training to ensure the magic of the season can be enjoyed by guests of all abilities.
Tickets for the sensory-friendly performance, presented in partnership with TDF, are now available at tdf.org/rockettes.
For more information on these and other accommodations, including accessible and companion seating, please contact the Accessibility Services Department at accessibilityservices@msg.com or the Accessibility Services FAQ page. Tickets for the 2025 Christmas Spectacular can be purchased in person at the Ticketmaster Box Office at Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Ave. between 50th and 51st Streets) and online at rockettes.com/christmas.
High Hopes Child Care
What To Do with Your Kids’ Old Toys
By BarBara russo
The holiday season is around the corner! It’ll soon be time to check off items on your kids’ wishlists. But in the meantime, you might wonder, “How will we have room for all these new toys?” Don’t fret, because we put together a list of what to do with the old toys they outgrew or just don’t play with anymore. From recycling to donating, these suggestions give beloved toys a second life — in someone else’s home!
Recycling
Mattel PlayBack Program shop.mattel.com/pages/playback
Do you have Mattel toys to retire? If so, you can send them back to where they were created via the company’s PlayBack program. It allows you to return a wide variety of their branded items, which are then recycled into energy or reused as content in new products. To participate, go to the website and fill out a short form to receive a free prepaid shipping label.
Hasbro Toy Recycling hasbrotoyrecycling.hasbro.com/en-us/ toy-recycling
Mr. Potato Head. My Little Pony. Playskool. These are just a few popular Hasbro brands that you can send back as part of the company’s toy recycling program, which is a partnership with the organization, TerraCycle. Once you send back your toys, they repurpose them into new materials and products, including play spaces, flower pots, and park benches.
Spin Master Free Recycling Program spinmasterplaysponsible.com/terracycle Recycling is one smart way to handle outgrown toys. Spin Master, the company behind PAW Patrol and Rubik’s Cube, offers a
free mail-in recycling program in partnership with TerraCycle (similar to Hasbro’s). Check the eligible items list on Spin Master’s site, print a prepaid label, and send your toys in. They’re sorted, cleaned, and melted into hard plastic remolded into new products—think park benches and picnic tables—instead of ending up in a landfill.
Stuffed Animal Box
terracycle.com/en-US/pages/zerowaste-box-faq
Your kids aren’t playing with their stuffed animals anymore, but it might seem horrifying to think of these once-beloved plush companions winding up in the trash.
Well, there’s good news: They don’t have to! You can purchase a TerraCycle Zero Waste Box (prices start at $110), fill it with your stuffed animals, and send them out. The toys are then sorted and processed into raw materials used to make new products.
LEGO Replay
lego.com lego.com/en-us/sustainability/ replay
If your kids are ready to move on from their LEGOs, you can pass forward these muchloved toy bricks to kids in need. Just box up your bricks, print out a label, and ship them out. Kids will get a box filled with a variety of bricks and elements to play with, as well as a
cool activity booklet with some fun building activities to try out!
Givin G Back Charities
If you’re looking for more answers on what to do with your kids’ old toys, consider donating them to charity! Many charities, such as Goodwill and The Salvation Army, will resell your donated items and use the money to support their causes if you have a new, unwrapped toy you’d like to give. It’s run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, and its mission is to bring Christmas joy to kids who are economically disadvantaged.
Homes and Shelters
Those beautiful dolls in your child’s old toy chest will almost certainly bring joy to children going through a difficult time. Consider calling local children’s and women’s shelters to see if they’re accepting toys, and if so, ask how you can go about donating.
Religious Organizations
Consider contacting churches, synagogues,
Ways to Recycle Other Items
Now that you have a few tips on what to do with your kids’ old toys, here are a few bonus ideas for recycling other household items, too:
Umbrellas: Broken or unwanted umbrellas can be upcycled into everyday items like tote bags, and the metal spokes can be recycled at a scrap metal facility.
Pet food bags: Once empty, pet food bags can be used as
and other religious organizations to see if they know of any families in need who can use toys.
Stuffed Animals For Emergencies (SAFE)
This wonderful organization provides
trash bags.
Paint: Through the PaintCare program, many stores will accept unwanted paint to give away, sell, or reuse, which are preferred methods over recycling. Fewer resources are utilized, allowing local communities to benefit from free or low-cost paint. Check out paintcare.org for a store locator and instructions on how to make your donation.
comfort for children in traumatic or emergency situations through donations of stuffed animals, blankets, books, children’s clothes, and baby items. This beautiful mission allows you to donate items so they can be used to comfort the kids who need them most.
Leveling the Learning Field
Christina Foti, Deputy Chancellor of NYC Public Schools, discusses
the future of inclusive education
By Náosha GreGG
New York City is renowned for its exceptional education system. From charter to public schools, families rest a bit easier at night knowing their child is receiving a quality education, taking one thing off their already full plate.
For Deputy Chancellor Christina Foti, standing firm on the city’s reputation is not just a goal, but a mission. As the Deputy Chancellor of the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning (DIAL), Foti works to ensure that the approximately 20% of disabled New York City students and 73% of students considered economically disadvantaged are on a level playing field.
“DIAL was established to ensure that students with disabilities and multilingual learners are at the center of decisionmaking at New York City public schools,” she explains. “Our mission is to make sure that every New York City public school provides inclusive and accessible learning environments to students by centering their needs. And that starts at the highest level of decision-making.”
Education Closer to Home
As one of the largest public school systems in the country, city schools play a key role in the educational development of our youth. As of June 2022, 88% of students received their recommended special education programs in full; however, ensuring that all children have access to the resources they need remains an ongoing challenge. Most students with IEPs travel to and from school in the same manner as students without IEPs, which can consist of a long school bus ride or via crowded city buses and trains during the hectic weekday morning rush hour.
Foti is working to make schools more equitable and recognizes the importance of
bringing resources closer to home. She says that families have had to travel far outside their neighborhoods for too long to access the right programs. “For students with disabilities, they’ve needed to travel outside of their communities to get the high-quality services that they need,” says Foti. “Our work has been about bringing those services to their communities so that siblings can attend school together and neighbors can attend school together.”
Brooklyn residents have recently experienced the outcome of this initiative head-on, with the opening of the new PS 6 Early Childhood Annex in Flatbush. The newly opened extension serves children from 3K to kindergarten and is described by Foti as “a completely accessible building.” The annex features include a sensory room, preschool-sized bathrooms, and family spaces—all designed with accessibility and community needs in mind. Foti hopes that the newly opened space provides some relief to parents who worry that their children won’t have to commute so far and won’t have to sacrifice the quality of their education.
“Families can walk to school together and know their children, of all abilities, are being served in a high-quality, inclusive environment.”
The response from families has been overwhelmingly positive. Foti recalls visiting her neighborhood school one morning and watching a father gently brush his son’s face before dropping him off. “It was a beautiful moment to see how they clearly walked to their school that day. Dad was happily dropping his son off somewhere he knew his son would be safe and happy, and where he would be educated in a high-quality way,” she shares.
Autism Initiatives
Beyond Brooklyn, DIAL is piloting new autism programs in several districts, including 5, 12, and 14, seeing what Foti describes as high success rates. In the New York-New Jersey metro area, approximately 3% or around 17,000 students in NYC public schools (as of a 2017 New York Times report) were identified as having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Photo by Chris Cassidy
“Our autism programs are outperforming their peers. Students are graduating in four years at 97%, which is remarkable,” Foti emphasizes. “The city now offers specialized placements for every incoming kindergartener with autism in those districts, and the model is expanding year over year.”
Embracing Multilingual Learners
The influx of migrant children has presented challenges for multilingual learners, but Foti is quick to emphasize the opportunities it creates. “Our commitment has been to increase bilingual programming generally because it benefits all students,” she says.
Since 2022, the city has experienced an influx of 40 thousand migrant children, in addition to the already 148,000 English as a second language (ESL) learners across the city, according to the NYC Department of Education. Many struggle to find proper education due to the language barrier. Despite the struggles, migrant children have shown promise, as exemplified by the child chess prodigy. “When children learn a second
“For students with disabilities, they’ve needed to travel outside of their communities to get the highquality services that they need. Our work has been about bringing those services to their communities so that siblings can attend school together and neighbors can attend school together.”
language, brain development is incredibly beneficial,” Foti explains. “We welcome the diversity that our students bring.”
The city is also mindful of broader issues, such as safety and accessibility. When asked about Gov. Hochul’s recent cell phone ban in schools, Foti emphasized the importance of striking a balance between distraction-free environments and necessary accommodations.
“From the inception of the ban, we were very mindful of what that would mean for students with disabilities, who perhaps rely on technology. What we’ve made clear is that if a child needs a device in accordance with their IEP, the school should provide it,” she clarifies. For parents
and caregivers navigating these systems, Foti encourages leaning into school-level support. “We’ve trained parent coordinators, school psychologists, and special educators. Thousands of folks have already been trained on the special education process,” she says. Families can also reach out to district offices or even DIAL’s central office directly via a dedicated special education inbox, which is monitored by her team.
According to Foti, at the heart of it all is a simple but powerful mission: Equity. “Our goal is really to put New York City at the forefront of special education practices, and to make every school the school we want to see for students with disabilities and multilingual learners.”
Set Up for Success
How to help your differently-abled child thrive in school
BY NEW YORK FAMILY
Good communication between parents and teachers is key to every child’s success—but it’s essential when your child has a learning difference. Staying informed, maintaining open communication, and helping your child feel empowered can make the school year smoother and more rewarding for everyone involved. Here are some tips on how to set your child up for success.
1. Know Your Rights—and Speak Up Parents are entitled to clear information about special education services and supports. Understanding these rights helps you advocate confidently for your child. When attending meetings—such as the Committee on Special Education (CSE), annual reviews, or parent-teacher conferences—don’t hesitate to ask questions if something isn’t clear. Staying informed puts you and your child in the
best position to ensure their needs are met.
2. Keep Communication Flowing Regular, honest communication with your child’s teachers makes a huge difference. Long Island co-teachers Kathy Devine and Emily Cole emphasize that parents of students with special needs should stay in close contact. “We like to know early if something changes at home—like a new medication or a shift in routine,” Cole says. Devine adds, “If your child is struggling with homework, let us know right away instead of waiting until the end of the trimester.”
Write a short letter to your child’s teacher at the start of the school year describing their strengths, challenges, and what strategies work best. It helps teachers understand your child as an individual from day one.
3. Understand IEP Goals
Take time to learn your child’s Individual-
ized Education Plan (IEP) goals and how they differ from general classroom goals. It’s normal for students to progress differently across these areas, but knowing what each set of goals measures will help you track growth more accurately—and celebrate progress in all forms.
4. Involve Your Child in the Process
Encouraging your child to participate in discussions about their learning plan can build confidence and self-advocacy skills. Cassie Reilly, a Transition Coordinator at a Long Island high school, suggests involving children in IEP meetings when possible. “Being open with kids about their diagnosis helps them see that their learning difference doesn’t define them,” she says. It’s about giving them a voice in their own education.
5. Embrace Your Child’s Unique Path
Every child’s journey looks different. Reilly notes that children may behave or perform differently at school than at home, and that’s okay. Success might not always follow a typical path—but with ongoing communication and understanding, parents and teachers can work together to find what works best for each child.
Why Some Families Turn to Private Schools for Learning Differences
For children with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, or anxiety, personalized instruction can unlock success
BY TARA LUSTBERG
For many New York–area families, choosing the right school is rarely simple. But when a child has learning differences, whether it’s ADHD, dyslexia, autism, or anxiety, that search can feel overwhelming. Even in districts with strong special education programs, parents often find that large class sizes, limited resources, and inconsistent support make it difficult for their child to thrive. That leads some to the realization of exploring private schools explicitly designed for students who learn differently.
Despite dedicated teachers’ good intentions and hard work, resources are stretched thin within the NYC public school system. Classrooms include students with a wide range of educational needs, and individualized attention can be difficult — if not impossible — to sustain. When a student’s needs aren’t fully met in a traditional classroom environment, some parents begin exploring alternative options for neurodiverse learners, like schools that center their teaching philosophy on how each child learns best.
A Tailored Approach
Private schools that specialize in learning differences take a different approach to classroom instruction. Unlike traditional schools that expect neurodiverse students to adapt to conventional learning methods, specialized schools design their curricula around each student’s unique needs. This individualized model may mean breaking lessons into shorter, more manageable steps, using multisensory techniques, pacing instruction according to the individual’s needs, and measuring progress by growth rather than standardized benchmarks.
These schools often maintain small classes — sometimes with fewer than 10 students per teacher — allowing teachers to devote more one-on-one time to each child
to familiarize themselves with their interests, abilities, and challenges. For children who struggle with attention or anxiety, the quieter, more predictable environment can reduce stress and improve focus.
Focus on Emotional Well-Being
Often, these schools place a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and executive functioning skills, which help students manage frustration, stay organized, and advocate for themselves. Instead of viewing behavioral differences as disruptions, teachers are trained to recognize how overstimulation and frustration manifest and respond to help students refocus and regulate.
This can be transformative for a student who has gone from falling behind or feeling misunderstood to being engaged, capable, and confident. The feeling of belonging rather than feeling singled out can be as valuable as the curriculum itself.
Navigating the Path—and the Price
For many families, moving from public to private school can be complicated. When a public school cannot adequately meet a child’s needs, some parents look to private
schools for tuition coverage through the city’s Department of Education (DOE) reimbursement process. However, this process can be lengthy and often requires legal advocacy, documentation, persistence, and time.
But, while tuition costs are high, families who are able to make the investment (or effort of pursuing reimbursement) say it is worth it for their child’s long-term confidence and well-being.
Lessons for Every Classroom
In classrooms where individuality is embraced, mistakes are treated as learning opportunities, and emotional well-being is seen as essential to success, children who once struggled to fit in finally begin to flourish. The lessons from these specialized environments could inspire all public and private schools to rethink how they support the diverse ways children learn.
As awareness and understanding of neurodiversity grow, more families and educators are recognizing that traditional learning doesn’t work for every student. For many, finding the right school isn’t just about academics—it’s about helping their child discover their strengths, build selfesteem, and rediscover the joy of learning.
Person Centered Care Services is a not for profit organization creating social change within communities by supporting people with disabilities on their search for identity and acceptance.
suPPort
Our responsibility as human beings is to support ourselves and one another.
eQuity
To participate in community is to have active citizenship. To be a participating citizen, one must have opportunities which are equitable; which accommodate the differences all human beings have.
aCCeptance
One of the most vital components of having a quality of life is love. It's okay to tell someone you love them; more importantly, it's okay to show them. To accept another for who they are and what makes them human can be a most validating experience; it is selfempowering.
Services Offered Day Supports Residential Supports Housing Rental Subsidy Employment Supports Community Habilitation Respite Family Education & Training Self-Direction
150 Granite Ave. Staten Island, NY 10303 718-370-1088 info@pccsny.org www.pccsny.org
From our child-sized entrance door into our child-friendly waiting room, children can feel at ease from the moment they walk into the of ce.
SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY
The Community School
High School: 135 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ
201-862-1796
Lower School: 11 W Forest Ave., Teaneck, NJ
201-837-8070
CommunitySchoolnj.org
The Community School offers a customized education experience in a mainstream-style program for students with learning challenges. Our greatest strengths are applying multi-sensory approaches, employing related services, extracurricular/clubs, and sports. Through small group instruction and innovative teaching, both our Lower School and High School provide each student with the resources they need to support their abilities and interests, gain confidence, and succeed both in and outside the classroom.
Harvest Café 694 New Dorp Lane Staten Island, NY 10306 347-857-6888
harvestcafe-si.org
Harvest Café, established in 2011 as part of A Very Special Place, Inc., is a full-service restaurant that unites culinary professionals, educators, and program participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants receive handson training in food service, including customer service, food preparation, and restaurant operations. Guided by chefs and staff, they gain valuable skills for future employment. The café also offers catering, private events, seasonal outdoor dining, and weekly dinners—great food with a mission!
Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island
1466 Manor Road, Manor Heights sijcc.org
Harvest Café opened in 2011 as part of A Very Special Place, Inc., (AVSP) that unites a chef and restaurant staff with innovative educators and agency program participants to be a full service successful restaurant.
Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun, 8:00am-3:00 pm
Thurs, Fri, Sat 4:00 pm-9:00 pm
Closed Mon & Tues
Now Serving Dinner Thursday- Saturday 4pm- 9pm
At the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, children with special needs can find the support they need in a fun and nurturing environment. The JCC offers an array of programs for children with special needs, including First Foot Forward for preschoolage children, Marvin’s Camp for children ages 6 to 21, after-school activities for kids and teens, a Girl Scouts troop, inclusion opportunities in traditional programs, and more.
Dr. Phyllis G. Merlino
Todt Hill Pediatric Dentistry, 268 Todt Hill Road 718-761-2090 drmerlino.com
Dr. Phyllis G. Merlino, a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, treats children of all ages and is specially trained to treat patients with special physical, mental, and healthcare needs in a calm and caring atmosphere. The office is committed to quality dental
services that ensure your child continues on the path toward a bright future of good oral health. Children are not always willing to visit the dentist, and Dr. Merlino strives to make the experience of each visit more positive for them.
Metro Community Health 2324 Forest Ave., Staten Island 718-447-0200 mchcny.org
Metro Community Health Center (MCHC) provides high-quality, wellcoordinated primary and specialty care, with a strong commitment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their skilled physicians, therapists, nurses, and staff deliver compassionate, evidence-based, and culturally competent care, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. Services include primary care, dental, neurology, GYN,
Dr. Vincenza Mineo FOR YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Caring
As a mother of a special needs child, I understand the challenges as both a mother and a provider. Foot and ankle issues are common among the special needs community. If left untreated, foot issues can significantly impact their overall health and quality of life.
I create treatment plans that accommodate the unique physical and sensory needs of each patient, ensuring effective and compassionate care.
Dr. Mineo is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. She is a member of the New York Medical Society, APMA, and Associate Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Piccarelli Foot and Ankle
podiatry, behavioral health, and psychiatry, all in a comfortable and supportive environment. MCHC ensures accessible healthcare for all, prioritizing dignity and comprehensive wellness.
Dr. Mineo, Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine 1478 Victory Blvd 718-273-0123
As the mother of a special needs child, Dr. Mineo understands the challenges of being both a mother and a provider. Foot and ankle issues are common among the special needs community. If left untreated, foot issues can significantly impact patients’ overall health and quality of life. Treatment plans are created that accommodate the unique physical and sensory needs of each patient, ensuring effective and compassionate care.
Monster Mini Golf is an indoor, fun, affordable, upbeat experience for special needs humans of all ages. Their 18 holes ofmonsterthemed mini golf, glowin-the-dark experience is wheelchair accessible, climate-controlled, with interactive team members. Music volume levels are adjustable upon request. Monster Mini Golf has monstrous themed activities for special needs monsters of all ages. For more excitement, they have an on-course DJ, arcade games, virtual reality, sensoryfriendly prizes, and private party rooms.
On Your Mark
475 Victory Blvd, Tompkinsville 718-720-9233
info@onyourmark.org onyourmark.org
On Your Mark operates businesses that employ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering meaningful jobs and practical training. Every purchase helps sustain and grow these essential programs. Their ventures include the On Your Mark Café and Chocolatiers at 639 Forest Avenue and The Café at Carmel Richmond Nursing Home, 88 Old Town Road. They also provide catering services. Each initiative fosters inclusivity, independence, and community engagement for people of all abilities.
Person-Centered Care Services is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating social change by
supporting people with disabilities in their pursuit of identity and acceptance. Services include Community Support, Residential Support, Employment Support, Day Support, Family Education and training, and SelfDirected Support.
Sandra Mazzucco, SpeechLanguage Pathology
465 Belfield Ave., Annadale 917-825-9005
Providing speech and language therapy to the Staten Island community for over 40 years, for all ages from toddlers to seniors. Specializing in fluency and stuttering, language and feeding disorders. PROMPT trained for Apraxia of speech and phonological and articulation disorders. ASHA certified. New York State license in Speech and Language Pathology. Department of Education RSA accepted.
STATEN ISLAND’S
Birthday Party Places
Finding the right place to celebrate your child’s big day can turn an ordinary birthday into something truly unforgettable. Whether your little one dreams of a hands-on art party, an epic play-space experience, or a fun outdoor adventure, there’s no shortage of creative venues to bring those birthday wishes to life. We’ve gathered some of our favorite kids’ birthday party spots—each with its own unique charm, from themed entertainment to stress-free all-inclusive packages. No matter where you celebrate, these spots deliver fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
A.F. Bennett
350 New Dorp Lane, New Dorp 718-979-9000
afbennett.com
A.F. Bennett curates each party to the specific needs and wants of the birthday child by creating a theme, utilizing specific items and services, decorations, etc. Little pink A.F. Bennett Spa robes are distributed during the party, bringing out true inner spa divas. Complimentary spa gift bags with beauty items are provided for all guests to take home. Popular add-ons include a “mini facial” which consists of cucumbers on the eyes, and a Gua Sha face “massage”. The most popular kids spa party package includes hair styling with braids, curls in any style, plus beautiful eyeshadow and lip gloss for makeup, and a magical manicure. This package starts at $85 per child and ranges depending on add-on services and the group’s ages.
Blue Balloon Parties
Astoria
718-766-8058
book@blueballoonparties.com
blueballoonparties.com
Blue Balloon Parties specializes in creating unique, personalized entertainment
experiences for every occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, family gathering, community event, or corporate function, the company’s mission is to deliver unforgettable moments with professionalism, creativity, and care. Serving the New York Tri-State Area—including New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Fairfield, Rockland, and Northern New Jersey—Blue Balloon Parties brings the fun directly to its clients. With passionate and engaging performers, the team ensures guests are always surprised, delighted, and thoroughly entertained. From small parties to large-scale events, Blue Balloon Parties guarantees reliable service, exceptional quality, and complete client satisfaction. Their dedication to excellence makes every celebration one to remember— because at Blue Balloon, they truly “Bring the Party to You.
Magic By Bruce
917-525-7139
brucebiggins@hotmail.com brucemagic.com
Magic by Bruce, featuring his adorable rabbits Bun Bun and Cocoa Puff, specializes in creating unforgettable magical entertainment for any occasion. Founded by Bruce, a seasoned magician with years of experience captivating audiences, Magic by Bruce brings laughter, wonder, and excitement to every event. His engaging performances and charming animal companions delight children and adults, making each celebration memorable. With affordable pricing and customizable packages, Magic by Bruce ensures that every family can enjoy a magical experience, because no child should miss out on a joyful birthday. Whether for birthdays, school events, or family gatherings, Bruce’s Magic guarantees fun, amazement, and smiles all around. Explore his videos on his
Monster Mini Golf is the planetary leader in glow-in-the-dark mini golf every day of the year. Their goal is to provide an exceptional and engaging family entertainment experience in a unique and fun environment. At Monster Mini Golf, prepare for a monstrous birthday party experience like no other. Their full-service Memory Makers will make your child’s birthday an unforgettable experience for not only the little monsters but for all the big monsters as well. Their twohour events provide nonstop entertainment and engagement with staff who specialize in turning wow moments into lasting memories. From setup to cleanup and everything in between, your dedicated Memory Maker will
handle everything for the duration of the event. Monster Mini Golf guarantees a stressfree experience for party parents, at an affordable cost.
RECESS!! The Experience
55 Richmond Terrace, 2nd Floor, St. George 347-676-0350
info@recessxp.com recessxp.com
RECESS!! The Experience is an ubercustomizable, wildly fun, and truly oneof-a-kind party provider. RECESS!! takes the pressure off parents by offering zerostress party packages, handling details at refreshingly reasonable prices — so you can actually enjoy the day and join in the fun! A 5-star-rated immersive attraction, RECESS!! treats every birthday as the once-in-a-lifetime celebration it deserves - bursting with color, magic moments, photo-worthy surprises, and laugh-out-loud play. Unforgettable memories for the whole family. The secret sauce? Adults can join in too! Spots fill fast — see why kids
(and their parents) are raving! Call today to book your spot or book at recessxp.com.
Staten Island Skating Pavilion
3080 Arthur Kill Road
718-948-4800
Allisoncuevas@thepavilion.org
Celebrating your child’s birthday in the coolest way possible is achievable at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion! Friends and family can gather for an unforgettable day of ice skating, music, and fun. Their exciting birthday party packages make planning easy with skate rentals, a private party area, pizza, drinks, and a friendly party host to keep the celebration running smoothly. They can choose from themed birthday parties to make their event extra special, and elevate the celebration with add-ons like a balloon arch, upgraded décor, and more! Guests can glide, spin, and laugh together under colorful lights and upbeat music for the ultimate skating experience. Whether a first-time skater or a pro, everyone will have a blast. Book your party today and celebrate in style!
The best kids’ birthday parties are at Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park in Brooklyn! Urban Air is the perfect place to celebrate your child’s special day! With wall-to-wall trampolines, exciting obstacle courses, and thrilling attractions, your child and their friends will bounce, climb, and have non-stop fun. At Urban Air, party planning is simple and stress-free! All party packages include a party host, digital invitations, balloons, utensils, bottled water, and much more! Urban Air is the go-to destination for birthday excitement and endless adventures every day of the week.
Urban Zone Adventure Park
501 Industry Road, Chelsea 718-682-1036
Looking for a place where kids can go wild, teams can bond, and parents can actually enjoy the party? Urban Zone Trampoline & Adventure Park is Staten Island’s ultimate destination for group celebrations that are high on fun and low on stress. From birthday blowouts to school field trips, team parties, and corporate events, our massive indoor facility is packed with adrenaline-pumping attractions—like trampolines, go-karts, ninja courses, and rock climbing walls—designed to keep everyone moving, laughing, and talking about it for weeks.
Victory Gymnastics
3575 Victory Boulevard, West Shore 718-983-9090
victorygymnasticscenter.com
Planning a birthday party for your little gymnast? VGC’s popular birthday parties consist of one hour of fun-filled, ageappropriate gym activities and 45 minutes of celebration in the refreshment area. Gym activities during your party may include relay races, obstacle courses, rope swing, trampoline, and other gymnastics, parachute games, and more. Staff members lead all parties to ensure the children and guests have a safe and exciting experience. Victory Gymnastics Center, Staten Island’s longestrunning gymnastics facility, has provided safe, fun recreational classes, tumbling classes, private instruction, and birthday parties for over 40 years. In addition to parties, VGC offers classes for all age groups, from Tiny Tots parent and child classes through adult private sessions.
Alyce chAn
Comedian on a mission to make motherhood funnier—and a lot less
lonely
By Danielle Ramos
Parenting in New York City is intense, unpredictable, and maybe sometimes a little absurd. One minute, you can be wrangling a stroller through the subway turnstile like a ninja, the next, you might be bribing your kid with a bagel just to get through a museum without a meltdown. Still, depending on the day, it can also be pretty wonderful.
We caught up with one of our favorite cover moms, Alyce Chan of @momcomnyc. She is a stand-up comedian, content creator, and real-life mom who tells it like it is and has turned parenting chaos into comedy gold.
From the realities of sleep-deprived lectures to her hit live comedy tour, “Pee Alone,” Alyce reminds us that even on the hardest days, laughter can be a lifeline, and yeah, you’re allowed (possibly required) to sit on the couch some days, and not feel guilty about it!
When we last spoke with you about two years ago, your kids were 6 and 9 they are 8 and 11 now. How has your comedy evolved as they’ve gotten older?
A couple of years makes a huge difference! I’m still in the sweet spot, but I’m also learning to let go a bit and give them some independence especially my eleven-yearold. My oldest is providing me with tons of material now that he’s officially a tween. He’s got the Gen Z vocabulary down and just enough attitude to keep me on my toes. I’m discovering that even though he craves autonomy, he still needs me around. This delicate balance of not embarrassing your kid while still being their safe space is crucial since he’s starting middle school this year.
My 8-year-old is still wonderfully cuddly, but I love that he can now arrange his own playdates; watching his friendships develop has been beautiful. Both boys can actually hold adult conversations now without immediately pivoting to poop and fart jokes, and they still
manage to crack me up daily.
These days, my comedy revolves around the uncomfortable questions my 11-yearold asks that I’m completely unprepared to answer, and the perfectly timed backhanded compliments my 8-year-old delivers about my appearance and aging process.
Speaking of aging, we especially love your recent videos in which you “lecture your kids while perimenopausing.” How has this stage of life shaped your parenting and comedy?
I only learned what perimenopause was about two years ago. It kept popping up all over my social media feed, and one day it hit me wait, I have brain fog and don’t sleep! I started using social media as my outlet because I had these moments where I’d try to lecture my kids and completely forget my words mid-sentence. In my head, I’m thinking, ‘Wow, I sound dumber than I ever have in my life.’ So I made my first video about my own experience, and it resonated with a lot of women.
I feel like it’s my job to keep the humor in an incredibly important topic something I think all women and men need to understand because every woman will go through this, is going through this, or has gone through this. This is huge for women it affects our wellbeing, our emotional and mental state so why aren’t we learning about this earlier? Wouldn’t it help everyone if we understood what we could do about it and how our peers and partners can support us? Or at least stay out of the way?
It’s definitely shaped the tone of my videos. The brain fog has really connected with my audience because we’re apparently all out here forgetting what we were saying halfway through sentences and pretending we totally meant to do that.
What motivated your collaboration with Kindred Bravely on a campaign centered on the humorous, heartfelt, and authentic
aspects of postpartum life?
I jumped into this headfirst! Since becoming a mom, I’ve felt like my purpose is to bring light and humor into the most challenging journey called motherhood. I got back into comedy because I felt lost and alone as a new parent. After having my second baby, a lightbulb went off, and I started “BYOB” Bring Your Own Baby at WORD Bookstore, a local bookshop in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
My first show had seven moms and seven newborns. It was a monthly show that grew to twenty parents with twenty babies and eventually their siblings, too! I watched moms, dads, grandparents, and even nannies come together to create this incredible community. They felt safe to laugh without the pressure of constantly entertaining their babies, and for an hour, they could just feel like adults again.
Kindred Bravely was a natural extension of BYOB like the next generation of that mission. It’s about reaching even more moms, making them laugh, and reminding them they’re not alone in this beautiful, chaotic mess we call parenthood.
What’s one postpartum truth you wish someone had told you?
That I would need help, and asking for it isn’t being weak. Don’t try to do it all. We live in different times now, where we don’t have our families living in the same house or siblings and aunts next door like previous generations. There’s no prize for being a martyr. And here’s the thing—nurture your other relationships even when you’re exhausted. It feels impossible, but those connections are essential to your life. Your friendships, your partnership, your sense of self beyond being ‘Mom’ they all need tending, too. You’re not just a vessel for keeping a tiny human alive; you’re still a whole person who deserves support, laughter, and adult conversation that doesn’t revolve around sleep schedules and diaper counts.
What’s on your mom’s must-have list?
Comfortable bras . My body has changed significantly, and I need support even when sleeping. I love a good supportive but soft bra I can sleep in and wear to the gym. I’m all about efficiency: one bra that can seamlessly travel from school drop-off to the gym to a coffee date and still look great under a t-shirt.
A nice water bottle though honestly, I think I’ve lost more water bottles than my kids have, so I’m not exactly proud of that track record.
And coffee I love coffee anytime, even if it completely sabotages my sleep. Apparently, I’m committed to this cycle of exhaustion, and caffeine is my willing accomplice.
What do you love most about being a New York City mom?
There are so many things to do for adults and kids alike. I absolutely loved being in the city when the kids were young. I miss that era because I could accomplish anything with two kids and a stroller. That stroller was my lifeline my mobile command center.
Now that they’re older, a whole new world has opened up. We can take longer walks through the city, catch Broadway shows, explore museums, and try new restaurants without having to strategically plan around nap schedules and diaper changes. The city becomes your extended living room when you’re raising kids here. Where else can you grab coffee, hit a playground, catch some
culture, and still be home for dinner all within a few blocks?
What’s the most challenging part about being a New York City mom?
You’re constantly compromising on space while feeling guilty for staying in. The city has this manic energy that makes you think you should always be out like you’re failing New York if you’re home in pajamas.
It’s exhausting. You’re cramped in your overpriced shoebox, but also somehow convinced you’re wasting the city by not being at some gallery opening or rooftop bar or toting your kids to a DJ afternoon brunch party.
What’s one thing you hope every mom takes away from your comedy whether she’s up all night with a newborn or dealing with teen drama?
She’s not the only one who’s completely winging it. Whether you’re up all night with a newborn, dealing with a teenager, or giving advice to your now adult kid, you’re not alone in feeling like you have no idea what you’re doing.
I also try to bring humor to the stuff we’re not supposed to laugh about grief, bullying, and perimenopause. Sometimes, the only way to survive these things is to find the absurdity in them.
Online, I can reach moms at 3 am in their pajamas, scrolling through their phones while their kid finally sleeps. But live shows hit different. I get to connect with you in the front row I never know what I will say, but I love talking to couples in that VIP section, also aptly known as the roasting zone. There’s something about laughing together in a room that makes even the heavy stuff feel more manageable and builds a connection amongst strangers.
We know that our brains can’t run in stress mode 24/7. We need permission to forget about the serious stuff for an hour or at least find a way to laugh at it. People tell me they leave my shows feeling lighter and ready to face reality with a bit more resilience.
What’s next for you? Are there any shows, projects, or surprises NYC parents should know about?
I took the summer off to write and be with my kids and family in Vancouver, BC (Canada). I’m back on tour (across the US and Canada) with my full-hour “Pee Alone” tour. It’s a constantly evolving piece that I hope to soon shoot a special for to distribute globally.
Kindred Bravely
calendar
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
Saturday, November, 1st & Sunday November 2nd, 2 pm
On Your Mark Playhouse, 129 Clinton Ave.
All Ages
Adult: $17.30 (incl. est. $2.30 in fees) Young Audience Member:
$12.10 (incl. est. $2.10 in fees)
IlluminArt Productions presents The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. This 80-minute musical brings Rick Riordan’s beloved story to the stage as teenager Percy Jackson discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and embarks on a quest filled with gods, monsters, and friendship. With humor, heart, and highenergy music, the show is perfect for families and fans of the book series, celebrating courage and the hero inside us all.
ShopRite Kidz Cook: Autumn Salad
Sunday, November 2, 12 – 4 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building M Ages 4 and up
Included with $8 Admission
Join the ShopRite Kidz Cook team at the museum! In this class, young cooks will choose ingredients to make a delicious and nutritious Autumn Salad.
Cosmic Bowling
Sunday, November 2, 1:30 – 3 pm
Rab’s Country Lanes, 1600 Hylan Blvd.
All Ages
$40
Cosmic Bowling at Rab’s Country Lanes will light up the afternoon to benefit the National Lighthouse Museum! Guests will enjoy an evening of bowling under the celestial lights, complete with shoe rental, pizza, and soda.
Each ticket also includes five free raffle tickets, with the option to purchase more for a chance to win exciting prizes—all while supporting the National Lighthouse Museum.
Music & Movement: Family JAMboree
Wednesday, November 5, 10 am –10:45 pm
Charleston Library, 225 Bricktown Way
Children ages 18 months – 36 months and caregivers
Free
A fun-filled music and movement program! Music and movement can help develop many essential skills, including fine and gross motor skills and direction following. Family JAMboree has fun songs, dances, music, and movement, and allows children to explore their bodies and be physically active.
Pumpkin Smash
Saturday, November 8, 10 am –3 pm
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terr.
All Ages Free
Bring pumpkins, Jack-o-Lanterns, and gourds to the annual Pumpkin Smash for a smashing good time! On November 8, you smash them, then Snug Harbor turns them into compost for community green spaces across Staten Island. While you’re there, groove to the DJ, check out arts and crafts, tour the Heritage Farm, learn about composting, and more!
Teatro SEA: The Journey of Pura Belpré’s Tales
Saturday, November 8, 3:50 pm –4:45 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building M
Included with $8 Admission
All Ages
Step into a world of wonder with “The Journey of Pura Belpré’s Tales” presented by Teatro SEA. Experience an enchanting interactive puppet show that celebrates the magic of storytelling! Timeless characters like Pérez & Martina, Juan Bobo, and The Three Magi come to life through lively puppetry and captivating narration.
Wicked Movie Screening and Sing-Along
Sunday, November 9, 3:30 pm
St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St. All Ages
$20 General Admission, $15 SGT Members
Defy gravity with us at the WICKED Sing-Along Movie Night! Sip on themed drink specials and come dressed to impress in your best Elphaba, Glinda, or Emerald City-inspired look.
Teatro SEA: The Journey of Pura Belpré’s Tales at Staten Island Children’s Museum
Whether you’re a good witch, bad witch, or somewhere in between, costumes are more than welcome—they’re emerald-ly encouraged. It’s not just a movie night, it’s a full-on trip to Oz!
Bird and Nature Walk: Wolfe’s Pond Park
Wednesday, November 12, 10 am – 12 pm
Wolfe’s Pond Park, Cornelia Avenue
All Ages Free
Join naturalists Ed Johnson and Ray Matarazzo and Director of Natural Science Colleen Evans on guided walks through the borough’s parks.
The Wizard of Oz: The Musical
Friday, November 14, 6:30 pm
St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St. Ages 4-12
$25 & $20, $5 off for SGT Members
Presented by Sunrise Theatre Company, this one-hour version of The Wizard of Oz is the perfect introduction to live theater for children. Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and Toto as they travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination!
Hearth & Harvest Festival
Saturday, November 15, 11 am – 4 pm Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave.
All Ages
Adults (12+): $10, Youth (6–11): $5, Children (0–5): Free Explore native life and culture through presentations of
indigenous dance, storytelling, and crafts in the 3rd County Courthouse and the Native Encampment. See hearth cooking demonstrations in North America by costumed interpreters who use 18th & 19th century recipes, tools, and techniques in historic kitchens throughout the village. Visit with vendors offering handmade wares and Native American food culture by Buffalo Jump NYC.
Canvas Painting: Autumn Vibes
Wednesday, November 26, 4 pm – 5 pm
Port Richmond Library, 75 Bennett St.
Ages 13 to 18 Free
With all the gorgeous colors that Fall brings, it’s hard not to want a little bit of that to take with you. Enjoy some watercolor and tempera paintings of things in the spirit of Autumn that you can take home after you’re done!
Blippi: Join the Band Tour
Sunday, November 30, 1 pm St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St.
All Ages
Tickets start at $45
Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies, and LIVE musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms, and instruments, through all your favorite Blippi hits. So grab your drumsticks, tune up your guitar, move those feet with Blippi, and get ready for a musical performance that’s fun for the whole family!
