Holiday Cheer
Check out the season’s ultimate bucket list, an all-ages gift guide, local events and more How to Stress Less This Season Keep Kids Moving with Winter Classes and Programs +
FEATURES
08 | Ask the Expert
A mental health expert shares tips and insight on how to have a less stressful holiday
16 | Activities
Winter is the perfect time to keep kids learning, busy, and moving
28 | Mom Hacks
We’re wraped up our favorite holiday hacks into a saveable list
28 | Holiday Gift Guide
From ages 0 to teens, stocking stuffers, our curated list of gifts is what kids want and is parentapproved
STORIES & COLUMNS
06 | Editor’s Note
12 | Family Day Out
Skating, community and coldweather joy
14 | Family Day Out
Spend the day enjoying one of the many tree farms where you can cut your own Christmas tree
20 | Mom Stories
A New York Family Editor shares a reminder to slow down and be present.
22 | Mom Stories
A season where you can exhale
24 | Mom Hacks
11 holiday hacks for busy parents
38 | Fun Stuff
December birthdays!
FAMILY FUN
26 | Family Fun
Our winter bucket list is here. Plan your list now! 36 | Calendar
The best family-friendly events this month
| Winter Programs & Activities
Zoom! The Holidays Are Here
The year is winding down, which, whoosh, that went quick. Many of us are in the holiday season, juggling school concerts and traditions old and new, which is why, as parents ourselves, we set out to share helpful pieces that remind us that the holidays are meant to be savored.
Starting with stress, we share some helpful advice from a mental health expert on how to make the holiday less stressful (page 8). Our editor and a mom, Danielle Ramos shares a reminder to slow down (page 20) and be present. And because kids need to stay curious and active even as temperatures
drop, our Activities guide (page 18) shares classes and programs to keep kids learning and moving.
Let’s not forget our Gift Guide (page 28)! We share a curated roundup of the toys and gifts kids actually want, from babies to teens, with plenty of parent-approved picks (including stocking stuffers!).
Wherever this season finds you, gathering, exploring, or sneaking in a bit of rest (fingers crossed), we wish you a holiday filled with comfort, connection, and joy.
The New York Family Team
GET IN TOUCH
Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
PUBLISHER: Clifford Luster
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Erin Brof
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Stacie Goldberg
DEPUTY EDITOR: Danielle Ramos
EVENTS EDITOR: Shara Levine
ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Náosha Gregg
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Alexa Lutter
PARTNERSHIP MANAGERS: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Suzanne Cirigliano, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli
MARKETING & STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Rosalia Bobé
MARKETING & EVENTS
COORDINATOR: Ashley Rivera
MARKETING ASSISTANT: Lorens Morris
MEDIA SALES ASSISTANT: Ruston Ropac
ART DIRECTOR: Leah Mitch
WEB DEVELOPER: Sylvan Migdal
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Mia Salas
CONTACT INFORMATION
ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554
Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com
CIRCULATION: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com
ADDRESS: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 15 MetroTech Center, Seventh Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201
PRESIDENT: Victoria Schneps-Yunis
CEO: Joshua Schneps
COO: Clifford Luster
New York Family is the recipient of 12 Parenting Media Awards in 2024, including General Excellence, as well as several Gold Awards in Editorial and Design for our website, e-newsletters and monthly print publication.
The Secret to a Less Stressful Holiday
Dr. Claudia Fernandes on mental health and connection
BY DANIELLE RAMOS
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, but let’s face it, for many parents, they come with a side of stress, pressure, and high expectations. From trying to create the perfect holiday experience to managing all the extra tasks and emotions that pop up this time of year, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
To help make the season a little easier, we spoke with Dr. Claudia-Santi F. Fernandes, a licensed professional counselor and the Founding Director of Youth4Wellness at Yale University. Dr. Fernandes is also the Director of Research and Evaluation at the Born This Way Foundation, where she focuses on mental health and wellness, particularly among young people.
A lot of moms feel this huge pressure to create the “perfect” holiday for their families. Why do you think we put so much weight on that, and how can parents, especially moms, let go of those unrealistic expectations without feeling like they’re failing?
The pressure to create the “perfect” holiday often stems from unrealistic expectations and a heartfelt desire to give our loved ones the very best. And sometimes, we think it has to come at all costs, but it doesn’t have to be this way and—in fact—it should NOT be this way as it often leads to burnout. This pressure is often amplified by images in the media, where comparison can lead to feelings of falling short of these expectations. It’s important to remember that kindness toward others starts with kindness toward ourselves.
I appreciate Dr. Kristin Neff’s work on self-compassion, which highlights that treating ourselves with the same compassion and understanding that we show others can reduce stress and increase our resilience—
preventing burnout. I’ve witnessed this in my own life and in working with thousands of parents and caregivers over the years: By shifting our focus from perfection to connection—moments of shared kindness, like practicing gratitude as a family, participating in volunteer activities, or spending time engaging in meaningful conversations—we can create memories that truly matter.
With so many families facing financial stress this year, it can be hard to make the holidays feel special without going into debt. What are some ways parents can still create meaningful memories without the pressure of overspending?
Sometimes we forget that the essence of the holiday season lies in connection and gratitude. Connection is feeling seen, heard, and valued by ourselves and one another. Gratitude is noticing and appreciating the positive in life. Research tells us that daily gratitude improves parent-child dynamics and family well-being, which can have a more lasting impact on our well-being than physical gifts. At Born This Way Foundation, we encourage daily acts of kindness and gratitude toward ourselves and others, like writing heartfelt letters to loved ones, which strengthen bonds and emphasize the joy of giving beyond material possessions. Teaching children the value of these moments helps cultivate resilience and promotes wellbeing for the entire family.
And, if you are looking for some sugges-
tions on a few acts of kindness, I always enjoy checking out our #BeKind365 platform for science-backed strategies on how to be kind to ourselves, others, and our communities. One of my favorite features is also one that I’d highly recommend for this holiday season: our “Gratitude Postal Service” where we’re invited to send a message of gratitude to anyone in the world and remind them they matter.
I recently sent an email with a note of gratitude to one of my best friends (who I consider a sister) in San Francisco. Although we can’t be together over the holidays, it made me feel so connected to her. In the midst of the holiday hecticness, it is so important to take a moment to express gratitude, to feel connected, and to share meaningful memories with yourself and others—by pausing and creating these lasting memories is truly kindness in action.
For many people, the holidays bring up feelings of loneliness or sadness. Why do some parents—especially moms—get more depressed during this time of year, and what can they do to take care of their own mental health when it feels like everything is on their shoulders?
The holidays are known to exacerbate stress, grief, and/or loneliness, particularly for caregivers who feel immense responsibility to make the season magical. This past year, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an Advisory on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Parents. In this report, he emphasizes the critical need
of providing better support to parents, caregivers, and families—individually, as a community, and through policies. So, please know that structures and systems need to change as well. In the meantime, there are sciencebacked individual- and community-level strategies to help navigate this time of year.
First, I want to acknowledge that if you are feeling overwhelmed, sad, and unmotivated—your feelings are valid. Compounded by the holidays, less daylight, and more, this time of year can feel challenging. While many may overlook their own needs during this time (leading to burnout), it is vital for caregivers to prioritize their mental health and well-being.
One of my first recommendations is exercise and, specifically, walking—alone, with your pet, with your kids, with your entire family, or with your friends. In a review of 23 studies with over 900 participants, exercise was an effective intervention in treating depression. If exercise is not for you, I invite you to find activities that allow you to pause, reflect, and engage in self-compassion and acts of kindness toward oneself, whether it’s a few minutes of quiet, a phone call with a friend, or an activity that brings joy.
Another favorite recommendation is the Kindness-Loving Meditation. In fact, in a review of the literature, kindness-loving meditations reduced stress and even improved our immune response. These findings are corroborated by our research from Born This Way Foundation that highlights the power of kindness, including kindness to ourselves, to reduce stress and improve mental health and wellbeing. Giving yourself permission to step back and focus on your needs isn’t selfish—it’s essential in order to show up as your best self for yourself and those you care about.
Oftentimes young people, due to varying reasons, do not have an immediate family to spend the holidays with. How can we best support them during the holidays?
It’s important to remember that family extends to those we chose, too—and some family may not be related by blood. For young people without immediate family, chosen families and trusted communities can provide the connection and support they need during the holidays. This might look like hosting a gathering for friends, reaching out with a simple check-in, or creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.
At Born This Way Foundation, we focus on uplifting young people’s stories and experiences, ensuring they know they are seen, valued, and supported—especially
“Research tells us that daily gratitude improves parent-child dynamics and family well-being, which can have a more lasting impact on our well-being than physical gifts.”
during times when loneliness may feel more pronounced. Through Channel Kindness, our digital platform where stories from young people are published, Phoebe Chidley shares a letter from Seanryan, a teenage adoptee, who reflects on their journey as an adoptee.
Seanryan’s piece validates the experience of finding and embracing chosen family as a source of strength and identity. We learn from this letter to value the relationships that bring us joy and stability because family is not solely defined by blood but by the bonds we intentionally create with those who nurture, uplift, and accept us unconditionally.
Teens and young adults can often feel the pressure of the holidays too. How can parents help their kids recognize when their friends might be struggling with holiday stress or depression, and what can they do to support each other?
Each young person is unique; therefore, engaging in open, ongoing conversations about mental health can help parents and teens recognize signs of stress or depression. By doing so, we are better able to understand how someone may be feeling or what they are experiencing around the holidays. Through these ongoing conversations, we are also able to recognize any changes in their behavior—like excessive worry or fear, prolonged feelings of irritability, or avoidance of friends and social activities—and this is key to knowing when someone may need additional support.
In our research at Born This Way Foundation, we learned that the majority of young people report connecting with family and friends as a strategy to support them during difficult times. And, interestingly enough, we also learned that even when young people find the courage to share their struggles and ask for support, their friends and family members often do not know how to respond because they don’t feel confident in their ability to respond appropriately.
For this reason, our team partnered with Jack.org to create the Be There Certificate— a free, digital, self-paced online course that teaches young people how to recognize when someone is struggling, listen without judgment, and connect them to help. Encouraging teens and young adults to check in on one another and ask simple questions like “How are you really doing?” can create meaningful
opportunities to support one another.
We can all think of the moment when someone in our lives might have needed a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, or when we ourselves needed to be there for ourselves, and this tool offers a way to practice how to do just that. Imagine knowing what to say in those moments and having the skills and confidence to support someone in your life this holiday season? I’m moved by the over 56,000 people that have already chosen to learn these skills and I invite anyone reading to start there today.
In your work with the Born This Way Foundation, you’ve seen the positive effects of kindness on mental wellness. Could you explain why acts of kindness are so powerful, especially during the holidays? And how can parents incorporate this into their family routines?
We are rooted in the science of kindness and science tells us that our brains respond positively to practicing, witnessing, and receiving kindness. In our own research at Born This Way Foundation, our findings highlighted that acts of kindness—big or small— improve mood, reduce stress, and foster stronger connections.
During the holiday season, incorporating kindness into family routines could mean volunteering together, leaving kind notes for loved ones, or practicing gratitude as a family. For additional ideas, our #BeKind365 platform provides science-backed ideas to inspire kindness every day of the year. By prioritizing kindness—in ourselves and toward others, we create opportunities to strengthen bonds, lift others up, and improve our collective wellbeing.
As the Director of Research + Evaluation at Born This Way Foundation, Dr. Claudia Fernandes brings a deep understanding of youth mental health, caregiver dynamics, and evidence-based strategies to promote the organization’s vision of a world where every young person has access to resources, communities, and platforms to proactively support their own and their peers’ mental health and wellbeing, kindly and bravely. Dr. Claudia’s work focuses on amplifying the voices of young people, fostering connections, and offering science-backed, actionable tools to navigate stress and build relationships rooted in kindness—including for caregivers and chosen families this holiday season.
Find Yourself at Art Lab this Winter
Winter Classes Begin January 4
Art Lab offers weekly art classes for all ages (3 and up) Including Creations, Young People’s Art, Pre-K Art, Afterschool Art, Intro to Sculpture, and more!
Fine Arts, Applied Arts, & Photography classes available for adults too. Register online or call us for more info.
Winter Immersion: Feb 16 - 20, 9 AM - 5 PM
Looking for a fun activity for your child to do during Mid-Winter Recess? Send them to Winter Immersion at Art Lab! Full day & Half Day options available. Open to young artists ages 6 - 12. Your child will spend 5 days creating art and will try their hand at painting, drawing, sculpting, and more. Register online or call for more info.
Special Programs Available: Gallery Events - No School Daze - Scholarships for classes Volunteer/Intern at Art Lab - Birthday Parties / Art for a Day
Skating, Community, and Cold-Weather Joy
BY MARIA MICHELLE
It’s the holiday season, almost winter, and with this comes ice skating season. There is a lot of hoopla about ice rinks with views of this building or that, but right here in Staten Island, our borough with a big heart, we have the best winter experiences. There is a tight community, running into an old friend, and the joy of realizing that even on a cold day, you are home.
Whether you were born or raised here or you’re new to the borough (welcome!), spending winter here skating on Staten Island is, or will soon become, a family tradition.
Once you arrive at your favorite spot, you’ll most likely run into a familiar face:
a fellow parent from school pickup, your kid’s friend from soccer. Someone waves from across the rink. You hear your name screamed through the music. You make plans for a coffee meet-up that you add to your phone, because you really want a break between all the craziness the season brings. For visitors, the jaunt over here sets the mood. The ride on the (free!) Staten Island Ferry doesn’t just connect boroughs, it softens you. The view opens up to the water, the pace slows, and you step off already more open to the day.
When we arrive at the ice rink, we are on common ground. Some of us may cling to the wall. The tweens show off, then help each other up. Parents end up chatting rink-side, bonding over how fast everyone seems to be
growing. Strangers offer encouragement. Regulars remember your face.
This is where Staten Island shines. We don’t need to impress, because we know exactly who we are. Skating here is as much about connection as it is about movement. You come for something to do in the winter and leave having spoken to more people than you expected. Maybe even feeling lighter than when you arrived.
For families, the rink becomes part of the seasonal rhythm. For those of us with teenagers, it’s a place to gather, and they might just put away their phones and enjoy the day old-school style. For parents, it’s a reminder that community doesn’t have to be so stiff. It can happen in a quick hello, in borrowed skates, in shared laughter because, well, it’s pretty cold, but you’re layered and ready to go.
Skating on Staten Island isn’t just a thing to do. It’s familiar, a little chaotic, and full of warmth. Whether you’ve been here forever or just got off the ferry, you’re not just skating, you’re joining in.
Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms
BY BARBARA RUSSO AND ALEXA LUTTER
Sure you can head to a local shop and pick out a Christmas tree in a short amount of time, but why not make a day out of it by visiting a New Jersey farm to cut your own? Gather up the family, leave Staten Island for the day and head over to one of the many Christmas tree farms in New Jersey and enjoy some holiday fun walking through a winter wonderland! Cut your own tree –or pick out a pre-cut beauty – and indulge in decadent hot chocolate as you enjoy the spirit of the season. Be sure to stop by a local holiday fair on your way home!
Tip: Some farms have changing open to the public days and hours, call ahead if hours and dates are not listed!
Ann Ellen Tree Farm & Shop 114 Daum Road, Manalapan 732-786-9277
Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM, 7 Days a Week, Cut Your Own Fields Close at 4pm, Pre-cut fields will remain open until 8 PM
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 50 minutes
Located on 50 acres, this Christmas tree farm in NJ is home to thousands of trees of several different varieties. After picking your tree, visit with farm animals and shop for Christmas decorations including wreaths and ornaments.
Barclay’s Christmas Tree Farm 35 Orchardside Drive, Cranbury 609-799-1855
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 50 minutes
Choose from Douglas, white and fraser firs, as well as blue and Norway spruces. Saws, rope, and netting are available for free.
Bullock Farms
83 Emleys Hill Road, Cream Ridge 609-758-8726
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour
A mainstay in the area since 1860, this 100-acre farm located in central New Jersey
specializes in cut-your-own trees, bagged feed, and straw. There’s also a craft and gift shop on site.
Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree Farm 231 Adamic Hill Road, Milford 908-995-4365
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1.5 hours
Cut-your-own Christmas tree in NJ at this veteran-owned 40-acre farm. Decorated wreaths, grave blankets, roping, and holiday decorations are for sale.
Giamarese Farm
155 Fresh Ponds Road, East Brunswick 732-821-9494
Hours: Open thru December, Tuesday-Sunday: 9 am-5 pm
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 45 minutes
Browse 35 acres of farmland to choose from Colorado blue and Norway spruces, and Douglas and Concolor firs. Pre-cut Fraser firs are available for sale. There is also an on-site farmer’s market that carries seasonal produce.
Keris Tree Farm
848 Route 524, Allentown 609-259-0720
Hours: Open thru December 21.
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour Have a favorite kind of Christmas tree? You’ll find it here at this 24-acre cut-your-own Christmas tree farm in NJ. Choose from trees by the foto, balled trees, fresh pre-cut Canadian balsam and Fraser Fir, and lots of
seasonal greenery. There is also a Christmas Shop that features hand-made ornaments, artisan crafts, Fontanini Nativity sets, wreaths, and more.
Lazy Susan Tree Farm
184 Sharon Road, Robbinsville
609-529-8379
Hours: Open until Christmas from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour This farm usually has a visit from Santa on select days (check the website for updates). Choose from fresh-cut Douglas, balsam, and concolor firs. The farm also sells its own homemade soy candles with wax made from American-grown soybeans, all available in a variety of holiday scents and colors.
Patterson Greenhouses
636 Adelphia Road, Freehold 732-431-5271
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour
This place features more than 10 acres of trees that you can cut or have professionally dug. Also for sale are wreaths, grave blankets,
swags, sprays, and roping.
Picea Acres
50 S New Prospect Road, Jackson Township 732-370-8733
Hours: Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through December 14.
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour Along with a large selection of trees, the farm sells handmade and fresh-cut wreaths and grave blankets. Roping for the tree is available.
Simonson Farms
118-260 Dey Road, Cranbury 609-799-0140
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour
Head to this third-generation cut-your-own Christmas tree farm in NJ to choose from pre-cut, choose-and-cut, balled, and burlap trees.
The Evergreen Farm
4 Bass Lane, Lebanon 908-236-9550
Hours: Open December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21.
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1 hour
A 12-acre farm with Christmas trees, wreaths, roping, porch pots, accessories, and stands for sale.
Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm
246 County Road 519, Belvidere 908-475-4508
Hours: Monday thru Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Hours include Christmas Barn
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1.5 hours
A favorite cut-your-own Christmas tree farm in NJ since 1958, Wyckoff has more than 5,000 trees available. Wreaths, grave blankets, green décor, and more aare lso for sale.
Evergreen Valley Christmas Tree Farm
77 Jackson Valley Rd., Washington 908-835-0557
Approximate drive from Staten Island: 1.5 hours
Browse thousands of Christmas trees of all kinds, and enjoy a free wagon ride. Choose and cut your own fresh Christmas tree from one of the largest selections of Christmas Trees in the Tri-State area.
Happy Holidays
Winter Classes & Activities
Find the right class, activity or extracurricular for your child
BY STACEY EBERT
As a kid, I loved after-school extracurricular classes. Whether summer camp, gymnastics, or high school clubs – regardless of the time of year- I embraced the energy that came with all activities. As a young adult, I led youth groups, ran after-school classes at the local community center, and taught many kids to swim. I felt lucky to have teachers and counselors who chose to share their time, energy, expertise, and talents.
As the 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 to the kind of activity, class your child needs Kids have a way of sharing their thoughts. Young children might not have the words yet, but they know how they feel. Those with the words might not have the meaning flushed out, and some kids may be shy and might need coaxing to try something new. Listen to what seems to interest them and provide options, give them the tools to research, keep an open line of communication, remind them they’ve got a support system, encourage giving it a try, and help them see that the nervous excitement of expanding that comfort zone is worth both the risk and joy.
Know what sorts of classes, sports your child gravitates towards
There is something for everyone in New York – offering many enriching activities encompassing diverse arts, including painting, sculpting, dancing, drawing, poetry, writing, music, theater, and more.
Engaging in the arts fosters talent and expands your child’s understanding of the world, nurturing a heightened sense of selfawareness.
For those passionate about sports, tailor-made winter classes are available after school or on weekends, providing the ideal outlet for children to expend their boundless energy.
Don’t overextend your child’s extracurricular schedule
Parent tip! If you’re overextended, your child is overscheduled, or there is sensory overload 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.
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.
WINTER CLASSES & PROGRAMS DIRECTORY
Art Lab
1000 Richmond Terrace
718-447-8667
artlabsi.com
Art Lab offers a variety of after-school and weekend art classes for children ages 3 through teenagers. Visit Art Lab’s Annual Handmade Holiday Fair, Saturday and Sunday, December 6 & 7, 11 am to 4 pm, a must-stop for your holiday shopping. Look for free “No School Daze” events in December and January. Winter Immersion available 9 am to 5 pm and half days am or pm, February 16-20. Classes start January 4. Find yourself at Art Lab this winter!
Bi’an Mandarin
475 Belfield Avenue
347-258-9356
bianmandarin.com
Bi’an Mandarin is a Mandarin immersion program for children ages 3 and up, offering play-based classes that integrate language with music, art, math, and science. Located in Staten Island,
the classes are fun, handson, and designed to spark a lifelong love of Mandarin. They offer toddler programs, after-school and weekend classes, and themed summer camps. Children learn through games, stories, and real-world experiences while building strong foundations in speaking, listening, reading and writing.
JCC of Staten Island
1466 Manor Road
718-475-5200
sijcc.org
At the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, kids enjoy their favorite activities after school. Kids can stay active in basketball, soccer, flag football, tennis, volleyball, and aquatics programs. Kids and teens can explore their creative sides and develop new talents in music, ceramics, dance, and chess. School’s Out programs bring kids together for activities outside of the classroom. The JCC also offers afterschool programs for kids and teens
with special needs.
Master Curry Martial Arts
3896 Richmond Avenue
718-979-7087
mastercurry.com
Ignite your child’s passion and confidence with Master Curry Karate’s extraordinary winter program. More than just another activity, it’s a transformative experience. This skilled instructor brings over 52 years of expertise, including 32 years teaching in Staten Island. Discover Martial Arts’ essential life skills, boost coordination and strength, and empower self-defense abilities. Fuel your child’s enthusiasm for learning while building character. Enroll now to unlock a world of growth and achievement!
Mathnasium Richmond NY
3161 Amboy Road
718-887-6955
richmondny@mathnasium.com mathnasium.com/mathcenters/richmondny Mathnasium is a global math
learning franchise with over 1,000 centers worldwide. The Staten Island Mathnasium focuses on teaching math in a way that makes sense to each child. The Mathnasium Method™ uses personalized learning plans and fun, engaging instruction to create a supportive, enjoyable environment for all kids. When the lightbulb goes on, kids feel more confident, think more critically and start enjoying math. It’s a trusted resource for families across Staten Island
Staten Island Family Music
3 Convenient Locations
SifamilyMusicTogether@gmail. com
SIFamilyMusic.com
Experience a joyful winter of Music Together at Staten Island Family Music! An award-winning early childhood music program that brings families together through singing, dancing, instrument play and fun! This winter semester, cozy up with your little one as you explore
new and familiar songs and activities that build musical skills and strengthen family bonds. Perfect for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Three convenient locations! Register today and make music a part of your family’s routine, all season long.
Staten Island Skating Pavilion
3080 Arthur Kill Road
718-948-4800
thepavilion.org
The Pavilion Skate School is an award-winning Learn to Skate USA program that has been teaching the Staten Island community for 30 years. Following the curriculum endorsed by U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey, and U.S. Speedskating, The Pavilion offers classes for ages 4 and up, from Snowplow Sam beginners through Free Skate levels. Experienced coaches provide fun, progressive instruction in a supportive environment where skaters are grouped by ability. Whether pursu-
ing figure skating, hockey, or recreational skating, The Pavilion helps instill a lifelong love of the sport.
Where Little Minds Shine
501 Richmond Hill Road
718-689-2795
Info@wherelittlemindsgrow. com
wherelittlemindsshine.com
Where Little Minds Shine offers community socialization classes designed to inspire creativity and confidence in young children. This artbased program runs Monday through Friday, with additional Saturday and Sunday classes for added flexibility. Children explore painting, crafting, sensory play, and collaborative projects while developing social skills and building friendships. The program focuses on fostering imagination, communication, and early learning in a warm, inclusive environment where every child can shine and grow through hands-on artistic experiences.
Before They’re Grown
One parent’s reminder to slow down and be present
BY DANIELLE RAMOS
We’ve all heard the reminder to enjoy parenting, because children grow up so fast. Never before had that simple saying proved to be more true than when I watched my son—my adorable, sweet, 6-foot1, 14-year-old baby—acquire an insanely deep voice and trot off to high school. There are countless times a week when I just look at his face and my daughters, and see the beautiful, smiling toddlers they used to be, in what seems like just yesterday.
If I could go back, I would press the rewind button, slow down, and enjoy parenting so much more.
If you find yourself relating, follow these simple tips:
Slow down … literally!
Stop trying to pack more into your day than you can reasonably handle. That pressure doesn’t just affect you—it spills over onto your kids. Constantly rushing creates stress, and stress creates chaos at home.
Repeat this small word: “No.” For such a tiny word, we sure have a hard time uttering it, and yet it can be the most freeing thing we do. By intentionally choosing not to overcommit, we are prioritizing enjoying our lives (and our kids!) more. We all know it, we just have to start doing it.
Do the same for your children.
Give your children recreational activities, but don’t sign them up for so many obligations that they have no downtime after school and on weekends. Children need time to recharge and opportunities to do nothing. This is how creativity is cultivated. It’s also how children learn to restore themselves and become who they are.
Enjoy the little things.
You know how you were rushing to get to school or work, but your toddler wanted to look at the beautiful flower in the neighbor’s yard or the ants gathering on the piece of candy on the ground? These seemingly insignificant things can become some of the most cherished moments. Humans were not made to live life at a frenetic pace. Ever notice how when you are at a beach or in a park, or somewhere else enjoying nature, your stress levels decrease? Our children are very good at this. Take their lead.
Make time for engaging in slow, simple, and meaningful activities together.
Whether it’s drawing, reading a book, baking, or just sitting and talking, carve out space in your day to be with your child without
distractions. Schedule art time or story time, and treat it like a sacred appointment—not something to squeeze in between chores or errands. Turn off your phone, close your laptop, and tune in completely. Don’t halflisten or multitask—kids notice when your mind is elsewhere. What they crave most is your undivided attention. Be fully present, fully engaged, and let those moments become the ones they remember most.
Don’t rush milestones.
So what if your friend’s baby can speak in full sentences or is potty trained? Stop worrying about when or if your child will do certain things and just let him be. Every single human on earth is different, and we need to embrace this. Our child’s unique ways should be respected and celebrated.
A Season When We Can Exhale
BY MARIA MICHELE
There’s a unique kind of charm that happens in New York City when the holidays arrive. The city softens. The pace, though still relentless, feels a little more intentional. Colorful lights spill from the corners, bodegas, and brownstone windows, and for many of us, there’s this collective exhale.
The thing about celebrating the holidays in New York: there’s no single way to do it. You can spend a fortune or nothing at all. You can be surrounded by people or walking home from work under the lights. The city offers both spectacle and stillness, noise and peace, belonging and solitude.
In Manhattan, the holiday season feels, well, cinematic. It still has grit, don’t get it twisted. But the streets hum, a bit predictable, but while there is still a lot of hustle, the festive vibe can touch even the family Scrooge. The windows on and near Fifth Avenue are always museum-worthy, ready for those Instagram selfies.
And of course, our own woodland forest, Central Park, may be blanketed with snow (if we’re lucky!), ready for some sledding. Snow or not, the park’s critters are still out (RIP Flaco!), and there are pockets of quiet you can walk into. I love taking the kids to
PALEYLAND at The Paley Center For Media for photos with Santa.
If downtown is more your vibe, Bryant Park, the Winter Village, buzzes with kids sipping hot chocolate while skaters trace circles on the ice.
Across the bridge in Brooklyn, the holidays take on a more handmade energy. Dyker Heights, get ready for the traffic because this area does not play. The famous blocks of homes have been turned into glowing wonderlands, powered by high electric bills and a thankful community. In Prospect Park, sledders appear like bright dots against wide open snow, and in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the “Lightscape” show winds through trees and tunnels of color. But often the most memorable moments don’t come with the biggest fanfare and cost nothing. Layer up and walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park and check out Manhattan across the East River. Queens might celebrate the holidays better than anyone since they celebrate them all. In this borough, you may spot Diwali lights, Christmas trees, and menorahs from the stores and home windows, all on the same block. Stroll through Queens and experience whiffs of simmering tamales, homemade dumplings, and baklava, and spot cookies at a Spanish bakery. The beauty of this area is
that there are no expensive flights to book; the food is rich in diversity, and a community that harmonizes.
In The Bronx, the holidays feel grounded in heart. The Bronx Zoo’s animal lanterns brighten up the landscape. Neighborhoods light up block by block, not for spectacle, but to celebrate each other. The Bronx reminds you that joy is found with neighbors, shared dishes, and kids playing right before bedtime.
Then there’s Staten Island, where Historic Richmond Town looks like it was designed for this season, with candlelit windows, soft carols, and paths that feel like they belong in another time. Snug Harbor’s gardens shine with lights winding through trees, and the ferry, still free and talk about a movie, doesn’t get better than this ferry! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, take in that skyline behind you. It’s impossible not to feel a little wonder at what our city has to offer.
The holidays here are not all about the tree, the crowds, or even the showy windows, although they are sure pretty to look at. They are about the moments of connection. The bus driver who wishes you happy holidays, the neighbor who tapes paper snowflakes to the front door, and the friend who drops off homemade treats and stays to chat. The city glows because its people do.
11 Holiday Hacks for Busy Parents
BY TARYN MOHRMAN
The most wonderful time of the year is also the busiest time of year, especially for parents with tiny tots at home. There’s decorating, cooking, baking, gift buying and wrapping–and that’s on top of keeping up with already-packed kid schedules and household to-dos. So finding a shortcut or clever hack that’s good–and we mean really good–is a huge gift in and of itself.
To save you sleigh loads of sanity this busy season, we’re wrapping our favorite holiday hacks into a saveable, shareable list. Enjoy!
Cup delicate ornaments
There’s the crafted-at-school kind, the keepsake kind and the breakable ball kind, but all three types of ornaments need TLC when it’s time to trim the tree. To keep your decorations in one piece, give little ones a wide-mouth plastic cup to hold under any breakable ornaments as they walk from
storage bin to branch. If securing it in place is a two-hand job, kids can work together by having one child hold the cup underneath and the other fastening the hook in place. Even better, the cups can be used in a container or box to keep delicate ornaments from touching and potentially breaking.
Hot glue your gingerbread house Gingerbread houses can take hours to set before they’re ready to be decked out in candy. If you’re not prepared to tackle this family tradition in two sessions (as in your kids are melting down because they simply can’t wait to add the gumdrops), you can pull out your hot glue gun to speed up assembly. Apply a bead of hot glue to the inside corners, waiting for the glue to dry completely on each side before moving on. Once it’s good and sturdy, use the icing to cover up any visible glue and attach the candies like normal.
Skip the gift tag step
Writing out gift tags can get tedious quickly,
not to mention there’s never really enough space. Save yourself a step and frustration by giving each family member their own wrapping paper pattern (or colorway if you need to mix patterns) so you can skip gift tags altogether.
Send Santa back with toys
The big guy’s known for delivering new toys to the good boys and girls, but (new) legend has it that he is in need of used toys back at the North Pole so he can recycle the parts in his workshop (wink, wink). When it’s time to make room in your child’s playroom or bedroom for big kid toys, share this story to make it easier to part with what they’ve outgrown.
Email wish list photos
The toy aisle is no place for kids, but sometimes you’ve got no choice but to tow them along if the holiday shopping is ever going to get done. When your kid starts to whine and plead for you to buy them
something ahead of the holiday gift exchange, let them use your phone to take a photo to email to Santa. Type Santa in the TO field (it will bounce back) and later on you can check your sent messages for the product info if you want to wrap it up yourself.
Send your elf on a mission
If your family has an elf on the shelf, chances are you could use a break from thinking of clever places to position it day over day. When this time comes, write out a note that explains to kids that Santa is sending their elf on a special holiday mission and he’ll be back just as soon as possible so you can enjoy having one less thing to do for a few days.
Stash a blanket in the car
When the weather drops, it can’t hurt to have a warm blanket handy to put over kids before the car reaches a more comfortable temperature, but it’s also hugely helpful for hiding gifts. Keep a large one in your trunk so if you need to do a store pickup on the way to school pickup, you can without spoiling any surprises. Just throw the
blanket over the gifts and your kids will be none the wiser.
Make festive pancakes
Want to add some holiday cheer to your breakfast routine? When you’re not baking with them, metal cookie cutters are a quick way to make your pancakes more merry. Spray the cutters with non-stick cooking spray before placing them on the griddle, then pour in your pancake mix and remove the shapes when you’re ready to flip.
Pre-load the batteries
Given all the toys that spin, flash, and move, stocking up on batteries ahead of the holiday season is a must these days. Instead of just keeping them handy, consider putting them in the toy before you wrap it. Your kids will love that things work straight out of the box and you’ll save time fumbling with a tiny screwdriver when you really just want to be enjoying their smiling faces.
Schedule family traditions
This may sound like work, but really it’s a way
to ensure you all enjoy the fun. Make your list of holiday season must-dos (think ice skating, gingerbread house building, cookie baking, and more), then decide on the best day and week for each activity and add it to your calendar. With a plan in place, you’re less likely to be left with regrets on January 1st.
Track gifts year over year
Start a note in your phone that you can use to keep track of what you’re giving to each family member. Make a section for gift ideas then mark off when you’ve actually purchased something. Not only will this help you remember what you ordered bleary-eyed at 12 am last Sunday night, but it also gives you a record that you can look back on each year.
While the kids probably aren’t thinking about what they unboxed last holiday, your MIL may appreciate not opening slippers from the kids for three years running. It’s also a way to come up with gift ideas. That custom blanket you gave your aunt two years ago could be the gift you’ve been looking for for your nanny this year.
Bucket List Winter
Sure, we live on an island, but it’s not exactly the type with palm trees and white sand. If only the nearest tropical plant weren’t hundreds of miles away! Here in Staten Island, brisk winters call for either hibernation or braving the cold. If you have kids, you’ll more than likely be heading out for some fun but freezing local family adventures.
We recommend you start with our Winter Bucket List, where there’s something for everyone this season!
1. Visit the critters at the Staten Island Zoo in their winter habitat - a child’s ticket is just $8!
2. Take the brand new NYC Ferry from St. George and spend the day in Brooklyn.
3. Update your winter decor at the new Home Goods in the Charleston Shopping Center.
4. Experience over a century of Staten Island holiday traditions with a candlelit tour of Historic Richmond Town.
5. Holiday shop ‘til you drop at The Boulevard, an open-air shopping center located at Hylan Boulevard & Beach Avenue.
6. Enjoy a brisk family winter hike at one of Staten Island’s many trails - it’s the greenest borough, after all!
7. Snap some share-worthy holiday photos at scenic Snug Harbor.
8. Go skiing for a day (without going far) at Big Snow in American Dream Mall.
9. Choose and cut down your own holiday tree, Clark Griswold-style, at a tree farm in nearby New Jersey.
10. Drive around your neighborhood to see twinkling holiday lights; join the popular Facebook group Staten Island Christmas Houses to see which ones are worth the trip to another zip code.
11. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa at one of Staten Island’s best hot chocolate spots.
12. Stay warm on a cold day and visit your local library branch to check out books and partake in some free programs the kids will love.
13. Stop into one of the Island’s many cultural museums for a fun and educational way to warm up.
14. Have a date night inspired by the popular Netflix movie, Nonnas, at Enoteca Maria, where real grandmas serve up authentic eats daily.
15. Check out the famous Christmas Show at St. George Theater, featuring an all-star cast of Staten Island talent!
16. See the lighting of the world’s largest menorahs at Grand Army Plaza in Park Slope, Brooklyn, and Midtown, Manhattan, every night of Hanukkah in Park Slope.
17. Bounce the day away at Urban Zone, Staten Island’s newest and only trampoline park (501 Industry Road).
18. Take your kids - and furry friends too (on select days) - to meet Santa himself at the Staten Island Mall.
19. When the snow comes down, grab your sled and head to one of Staten Island’s sledding hills.
20. Head over the bridge to Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights (between 11th to 13th Avenue or 83rd Avenue to 86th St.) for the neighborhood’s famous annual holiday light displays.
Gift Guide
BY SHARA LEVINE AND NEW YORK FAMILY
1 . Woom WOW Balance Bike
Balance and developing it are always learn ing goals for toddlers. But make it fun with this self-balancing balance bike that helps your child to learn this important motor skill. Age: 9-36 Mo, $200, Woom.com.
2 . Fisher-Price Rocket Pals Ball Pitt
The kids can launch into space right in their bedroom or playroom in this versatile inflatable rocket-ship ball pit. There are 15 included play balls to practice gross motor skills and engage in sensory play. Ages: 2+, $30-40, Walmart.com.
3 . Lamaze Peek-a-Moo Friendly Barn
It’s all about the squish for babies, and that is what this plushy barn offers. There is a roof that has a crinkled flap, as well as satinto-the-touch ribbons, and a soft cow plush that has what babies adore. The mother hen can be found at the side of the barn.
6 Mos +, $15, Tomy.com.
4 Wonderclimber Climber
Dr. Emmi Pikler believed that babies flourished when given the freedom to explore. This wooden Pikler Triangle playset invites rich sensory and active play, giving kids a chance to feel differ ent textures as they climb, balance, and explore. Age: 18 Mo +, $90, mybtoys.com.
5 . Loveevery The Play Kits
Every kit blends expert guidance with ageperfect play, giving you curated toys, helpful resources, and steady support through the app, social media, and weekly emails. Age: 0 +, $80-120, Lovevery.com
1
2
3
4
5
AGES 3–4
1 . Imaginext Jurassic World Rebirth Ultimate Action Chomp T. Rex
2 . Cutie Cubes
Go back, or actually, in the cinema world, in the future with this T. Rex. With this toy, your kid will be in control and can play out all their dinosaur adventures. Age: 3+, $107.99, Mattel. com.’’
These stackable, cubeshaped plushies come in multiple styles and won’t break the bank. Choose from four sizes ranging from 4 to 10 inches. Age: 3+, $3.99-12.99, Yooniquetoys.com.
3 . 48-Piece Glitter Castle Pack
shapes, building, and how repetitive
The beauty of magnetic tiles is by using imagination, kids learn about shapes, building, and how repetitive play offers adventure, no electronic tablets necessary! Age: 3+, $69, Connetix.
4 . Harmony All-In-One Activity Table
Parents and kids (!) love a good activity table, and this well-designed one does triple duty for play. Your little one can switch between a train table top, an art surface, or go old-school style with the flat play side. And oh, there is also room for storage! Age: 3+, $180, Target.com.
5 . Crayola Art-To-Go Table Easel Magnetic Set
Play at home or travel with this double-sided easel that includes a magnetic dry-erase board, a chalkboard, and a storage nook for supplies. The crayon tube stores the magnetic letters and numbers. Age: 3+, $34.99, Grow-n-up.com.
6 . Flip & Fry Grill Play Set
Kids can “cook” safely with this fun playset, which includes a grill, a griddle, and a fryer with waterbased, color-changing food. Of course, there is a spatula, a fryer basket, and condiments, all for serving up some sumptuous play meals. Age: 3+, $27.99, Melissa&Doug.com. or
1 . Minecraft Builders & Biomes Junior
Play with friends and family with this no-app-required Minecraft board game. Staying on theme, you can build a farm using a pickaxe and a shovel, gather those books, and, of course, like the game, construct stables for the animals. Ravensburger.com.
2 . Evergreen Cabin
If your child is past the dollhouse stage or is an architect in the making, they will love this kit’s features, which let them use pieces together to craft an A-frame cabin, complete with luch trees and a cool roof. $60.00, Maisonette.com.
3 . Bluey Mini Music Player
Time to dance to the beat, or not with this mini music player. There are four built-in tracks. The player also lights up and pulses with the beats your child plays. Age: 3+, $15, Ekids.com
AGES 5–7
4 . Remote Control Climbing Bottle Fly
Your kid will spend hours remotely controlling this Bottle Fly. Up the walls or the ceiling, or switch to Auto Mode and let it move about on its own, like flies tend to do! Age: 5+, $19.99, Target.com.
5 . National Geographic Ant Habitat
Ants get a bad rap, and this Ant Habitat can be your kids’ cool animal kingdom where they can enjoy watching live ants (you will have to add those) and learn
1 . Easy Bake Ultimate Oven
Parents who once owned this oven may feel a sense of nostalgia this holiday. This version still has many of the fun elements and has been upgraded with features such as a modern-retro design, a light-up rainbow confetti pattern, and a builtin timer. Age: 8 +, $49.97, Walmart. com
2 . Pokémon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box
For the deserving kid who loves Pokémon, 24/7 #iykyk, the Mega Evolution Pokémon, along with Mega Lucario ex and Mega Gardevoir, can be found in this Trainer Box! Age: 6, $50, Target.com
3 . The Hobbit: There & Back Again
A good dice game is a way to screen free play and invite the family to join in. This game includes eight individual adventures that all lead from the Bag End to the Lonely Mountain. Age: 10+, $35, Store.asmodee.com
4 . Emotional Support
Dino Nuggies
AGES 8+
This age group can be challenging; kids face social dynamics and heavy homework loads. A small reminder, like a basket of soft, mini dinosaur nuggets, can never hurt; they’re so cute! Add to a backpack, place next to the bed for a comforting squeeze. Age: 0+, $17, Target.com. 1 2
A big thank-you to Toy Insider (toyinsider.com) for helping us curate the best toys for our little ones!
TWEENS & TEENS
1 . Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace
This classic Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace can be worn in so many different ways: on its own, layered with other pieces, dressed up, or dressed down. Choose from gold or silver chains, and over 20 different colored stones. This can be a truly personal gift when you choose meaningful colors like a birthstone. Starting at $60, kendrascott.com
2 . Playstation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
The Pulse Elite wireless headset is light, comfortable, and uses technology typically found in headsets for professional sound engineers. A retractable microphone lets players can easily communicate with their friends. Although this headset is made for the PS5 gaming system, it can also be used with PCs, Macs, and Bluetoothsupported devices. $149.99, playstation.com
3 . KAWS WINTER x UNIQLO HEATTECH Beanie
You won’t have to fight with your kid to wear a hat when you gift them with this beanie, part of the new KAWS WINTER collection from UNIQLO. Brooklyn based artist KAWS (Brian Donnelly) known for his pop art, translates his style to this winter drop, including this beanie, adorned with his signature “XX”. $29.90, uniqlo.com
4 . Nintendo Switch™ 2 + Pokémon™ Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Bundle
You gotta catch them all, but first you need this Nintendo Switch 2 bundle that includes a full game download for the Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Experience Lumiose City in a new way with enhanced features and performance upgrades. $499.99, nintendo.com
5 . Men’s Fragrance Discover Scent
By now, your son has probably started dabbling in colognes or, more likely, body spray. He’s trying to figure things out as he grows, and may need a little help. Enter the Men’s Fragrance Discovery Set from Ulta. Gift this to your man in training and let him test his way through 15 unique designer scents until he finds one, or more, that suits him best. The set comes with a $15 gift card to use toward a $50 purchase of any of the fragrances featured. $39, ulta.com
6 . SKIMS Teddy Bear Slipper
Just because they’re too big to be carrying around a stuffed animal doesn’t mean they won’t want to wear them on their feet. These comfortable slippers are adorable and perfect for keeping your kids warm and cozy. $78, skims.com
STOCKING STUFFERS
1 . Slushy Kid’s Masks
Choose from three fruity “slushy” flavors: Blue Raspberry Slushy, Cherry Slushy, and Lemonade Slushy. $2.50, avataraskin. com
2 . Hot Dog Pretzel N.Y. Socks
Super comfortable and reps our favorite New York street food snacks- a hot pretzel and hot dog (with mustard, of course!) $16, piccolinyshop.com
3 . Ty Beanie Bouncers
The new Ty Beanie Bouncers are made for throwing and bouncing- as high as 50 feet! Characters to choose from, including holiday-themed, animals, and kid favorites from Star Wars, Paw Patrol, and Harry Potter! $5.99. michaels.com
4 . Juice Infused Lip Oil
Swipe on for a shine that subtly brings out your natural color, and even normally unforgiving shades are still flattering. $10, ulta.com
5 . UNO Show ’em No Mercy
Named Game of the Year at the 2025 Toy of the Year awards, a game we all love, but with more opportunities to mix things up and add to the excitement of this family favorite. $9.99, Walmart.com
5 . Mother’s Reindeer Games Cookies
Adorable and delicious, these limited-edition shortbread cookies come in fun reindeer shapes. Let’s leave some out for Santa, too! $13. walmart. com
A HOLIDAY PICK WE LOVE!
Ages 6 & Up
Raquel™ 18-inch Doll & Journal (American Girl® Girl of the Year™ 2026) Raquel Reyes™ loves DJing, taste-testing paletas at her family’s shop in Kansas City, and spending time with her lovable rescue pup, Luzita™ Premium features:
An 18” Raquel doll with brown eyes that open and close, and dark-brown hair styled in a front ponytail with a gingham bow. She has a soft cotton body, and her movable head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl.
An outfit inspired by Raquel’s greatgreat-grandmother Samantha Parkington’s iconic look: a pink-and-plum ginghamprint top with a ruched front, puff sleeves with attached purple bows, and a ruffled bottom hem; a gingham-print full skirt with gathers at the waist; and a matching hair tie with a gingham-print fabric bow
Also includes:
A golden cuff bracelet with a bow, a pair of pink platform shoes with ankle straps and purple bows at the toes, and a pair of underwear
An illustrated paperback book, The Diary of Raquel Reyes, that tells how Raquel shares her passion for music and family history, reconnects with her relatives, and springs into action with her cousin Sloan for an important rescue mission
calendar
Lights for Life: DiMartino
Home
Sunday, November 30, 3 pm
107 Sharrots Rd.
All ages
Free
Join hosts Joe Causi and Vinnie Medugno for the annual Lights for Life House Lighting Ceremony. This Charleston home features a spectacular display of more than 100,000 lights, set to synchronized music and illuminated scenes.
Holiday Stroll
Thursday, December 4, 5 - 7 pm Forest Avenue, Broadway - Hart Blvd.
All ages
Free
The Forest Avenue BID’s Holiday Stroll returns, celebrating 20 magical years of holiday cheer, community, and fun!
Weekend Walk-In!
Workshop: Prints and Patterns
Saturdays and Sundays starting December 7, noon – 4 pm (except Dec. 21)
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building
M
All ages
Free with admission
Explore the magic of circles, squares, and triangles in this hands-on art activity, where kids will use simple shapes to create bold, colorful patterns that celebrate the season.
Christmas in Historic Richmond Town
Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7, 12 - 5 pm
Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave.
THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER
All ages
$12 adults; $8 kids; $10 seniors
Enjoy living history demonstrations, shopping for gifts, crafts, and commemorative items made by historic tradespeople, holiday performances, a visit from Santa and his helpers, an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage, sweets and treats, local eats, and much more.
Historic Richmond Town Candlelight Tours
Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13, 5 - 8:30 pm
Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave.
All ages
$40 general admission; Free for kids under 6
Enjoy a cozy Candlelight Tour
exploring historic houses aglow with holiday spirit. Step back through time to experience the holiday pleasures of centuries past showcasing yuletide traditions on Staten Island, where culture and foodways from many countries combine to create something that is uniquely New York.
Cookies, Crafts and Cocoa with Santa
Saturday, December 13, 11 am - 2 pm
Austin J. McDonald Playground Fieldhouse, Forest Ave. and Broadway
All ages
Free
Enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa while you customize sugar cookies with colorful toppings and sprinkles and create holiday keepsakes, you’ll hang on your tree for years to come. Make sure to bring your phone or camera to get a picture with Santa Claus! Register online.
The Christmas Show
St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St. Friday, December 12, 7pm; Saturday December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 2 pm & 6
pm
All ages
$15 to $55
The St. George Theatre’s 22nd Annual Christmas Show brings the magic of the season to life
Christmas in Historic Richmond Town
with a heartwarming story that whisks the audience on a magical journey from the North Pole to Times Square, Clove Lakes Park, The Rainbow Room, a Living Nativity, and beyond, featuring an all-star cast of Staten Island’s finest talent. This high-energy, two-hour production is packed with festive music and unforgettable performances that will leave you in awe!
Birding: Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, December 13, 10 am –
noon
High Rock Park, 200 Nevada Ave.
All ages
Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers for this annual community science project where you will help count and identify what birds are seen in the park. While walking on woodland paths, participants will learn how to identify birds based on their feathers, calls, and behavior. All findings will be logged and submitted to the Audobon Society’s yearly count.
Story Time and Craft: Primate Conservation
Saturday, December 13, 10 am –
noon
Greenbelt Nature Center, 700 Rockland Ave.
All ages
Free
Friends from Dongan Hills Library will share interesting stories about chimpanzees, monkeys, and other primates,
Christmas Bird Count at High Rock Park
and about the life and legacy of conservationist Jane Goodall. Create a fun craft to take home. Registration for this event opens on Eventbrite on 12/1.
Stacks with Santa Sunday, December 14, 10 am –
noon
South Shore YMCA, 3939
Richmond Ave.
All ages
$20 per person
Enjoy a very merry breakfast at the Staten Island South Shore YMCA as well as games and Christmas activities with a very special guest!
Historic Tea Party: Holiday Edition
Saturday, December 27, 11 am -
12:30 pm
Conference House Park, 298 Satterlee Street
All ages Free
Savor the taste of the seasons with the Urban Park Rangers, who will demonstrate the brewing of natural teas and discuss their historical and cultural relevance on holiday traditions celebrated today! Costumes are encouraged.
Kids Week: All About Owls Hike and Craft
Tuesday, December 30, 11 am –noon
Greenbelt Nature Center, 700 Rockland Ave.
All ages Free
Learn all about many species of owls that you can find on Staten Island. End the afternoon with an owl nature craft. Registration is required and opens Monday December 22.
Kids Week: Campfire Story Time
Wednesday, December 31, 11 am – noon
Willowbrook Park, Ashworth Avenue and Forest Hill Road
All ages Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a cozy campfire and story telling session. Rangers will share engaging and educational stories about wildlife and nature. Dress warm and bring a blanket! Registration not required.
Follow us on Social Media!
JOIN STATEN ISLAND PARENT’S
Birthday Club!
KIDS MEAL at WENDY’S
(Staten Island only)
300 Bay St, 10301 | 1761 Forest Ave, 10303 1661 Hylan Blvd, 10305 | 6420 Amboy Rd, 10309 25 Putnam St, 10312 | 26 Richmond Hill Rd, 10314
DECEMBER 1
Anthony Russo
Kevin John Bucchieri
Aubree Jude Purcell
Samantha Diaz
Kyle Olivia Norman
Ali Gonzalez
Jana Shehata
DECEMBER 2
Nikki DePetro
Kira Rasmussen
Christian Rasmussen
Alyssa Ann Stetter
Eva Stefanski
Aiden Attal
Roman Ducalo
Farid Ortiz
DECEMBER 3
Joseph Piacenti
James Tonrey
Ryan Kvetny
Nethuli
Wickramanayake
Kaitlyn CianFrone
Sara Attarian
Zariya Amin
DECEMBER 4
Anna Sereno
Megan Nagengast
Dominick DePaolis
Jordyn Savannah Hill
Nia Mccadney
Victoria Rzeszutko
Anthony Rufano
Wynter Baldwin
Gianna Rojas Orea
DECEMBER 5
Tyler McAnuff
Scott Hightower
Jillian Katz
Lucas Canada
Alivia D. D’Ascanio
Deandra Cruz
Montral Tillman
Andrew Murtada
DECEMBER 6
Dylan Horton
Danielle Horton
Angela Bunay
Joseph Menoni
Vincent Gigante
Justin Lopez
Mason Salhany
Vincent Gigante
DECEMBER 7
Alyssa Hidalgo
Timmy Keane
Briana Lane
Jayden Kranzke
Toby Yuen
Gianna Buenaventura
Beckett Wells
Maya Rivera
DECEMBER 8
Seyid Hakan Sagdic
Lisa Foreman
Jack Kushner
Gabriel Reuben
Jillian Katz
Michael Russo
Emmanuel Lago
Mason Perez
Christopher Moody Jr.
DECEMBER 9
Paige Distefano
Chase Bertone
Kaydence Lennon
Gia Tallegra
Olivia Parco
Demi Picca
Liam Esquivel Moncion
DECEMBER 10
Dante Pascale
110 Schanck Road • Freehold, NJ 07728-2938 732-577-8200
Michael Migliorisi
Christina Daquara
Adam Cohen
Sabrina Todaro
Anaya Passi
Alyssa Isabelle Guadalupe
DECEMBER 11
Mando Ramos
Samantha Devito
Thomas Byrnes Jr
Nicole Falanga
Benjamin Alfimov
Delilah Rodriguez
Alyssa Powierski
Liana Varughese
DECEMBER 12
Olivia Andruszkow
Faith Chambers
Samantha Walfish
Jaden-Ramen Watson
Gabriel Prather
Jocelyn Gioe-Porto
Jocelyn Gioe
Novaa Noelle Garzone
Nyla Boone
DECEMBER 13
Lauren Zaluk
Amanda Seery
Ronnington Watson, Jr.
Aubrey Vautrinot
Serena O’Donnell
Michael Russello
Ellie Stetter
Ethan Valdez
DECEMBER 14
Madison Burkhart
Jason Mora
Avyana Murray
Taseer Rasheed
Jason Mora
Melina Marovic
Kaelani Valentin Amaya
Kamirah Jenkins
Faheem Moore
DECEMBER 15
Aniyah Meredith
Kayleigh Clark
Lauren Guzman
Nadia Aburabia
Adrian Wojtach
Liam Mejia
Ethan Smith
DECEMBER 16
Elizabeth Liliav
Deborah Arianna
Morales
Deborah Morales
Jack Gottlieb
Lia Giovanniello
Barnell Rogers
Kyle Saryian
AngelaRose Trombino
Sammy Koyfman
DECEMBER 17
Michael Mauro
Saniyah Salman
Sabrina Frascona
Sofia Aziz
Chassidy Rodriguez
Joseph Falanga
Sariyah Jenkins
Kamirah Jenkins
Jahnique White
DECEMBER 18
Joseph Busacca
Kane Peter Emerich
Nicole Romano
Demarra Spicer
Paulie Rivera
Jane Clairmont
Michael Medina
Adrianna Medina
DECEMBER 19
Jonathan Dinkle
Arianna Duran
Justin Portalatin
Ryan Mottola
Nicolette Nigido
Divine Roman
Zahir Moore
DECEMBER 20
Rosalia Santamaria
Johny Perez
Addison Baerga
William Landy
Gabriella Hamptin
Steven McCabe
Liam Waters
Lucas Gonzales
Steven McCabe
DECEMBER 21
Matthew Gibb
TJ Chow
Hailie Velez
Danielle Harrell
Julian Arapi
Jennifer Squarciafico
Alia LaPorta
April Servider
DECEMBER 22
Bryanna Braithwaite
Avery Parchment
Karissa Noelle Bove
Michael Yarbrough
Jo-Anna Stabile
Ibrahim Hamdallah
DECEMBER 23
Kevin Kushner
James Kushner
Alysea Parchment
Nicholas Ahlborn
Myra Young
Brandon Maisonet
Kayva Sethna
Amir Murtada
DECEMBER 24
Stephanie Rivera
Kyle Mackey
Ariana Canessa
Matthew Attardo
Desirey Madden
Giulianna Mary Dolce
Marialina Cipriano
DECEMBER 25
Randall Gip Lee
Eric Towse
Confesora Pacheco
Jackson Harrison II
Evianna Reale
Giuseppe Carucci
Christian George
Valentina Cipriano
DECEMBER 26
Zachary Bellantoni
John Thaten
Daniel Soto
Jadin Edmonds
Ava Rose Sheehan
Aiden Buricea
Gabriella Signoriello
DECEMBER 27
Fjay Noel Pagtakhan
Schuyler Lynch
Portocarrero
Elisabeth Tonrey
Tyler Moor
Maria Vazquez
Jackson Costa
Troy Tappin
DECEMBER 28
Nicole Africano
Tyler Moore
Olivia Millone
Tyler Samuel
Please present this page. Good only for birthday club members on this list. Offer valid for the month. Call before to check availabilty.
Haneef Madyun
Sarah Sollog
Zoey Jeffers
DECEMBER 29
Serena Tesler
Zachary Becker
Jcologero Messina
Nikki Damante
Cristina DiMaria
Tara Leonard-Lentz
Julia Deluca
Oliver Villatoro
DECEMBER 30
Sofia Russo
Danielle Dono
Thomas Dono
Andre Jeremiah
Cooper
Vincent Homan
Victoria Rice
Mia Valentone
DECEMBER 31
Darrius Ingram
Eden Sage Ramos
Paul Teplitskiy
Efraim Agarunov
Connor Burke
Aiden Tanenbauum
Sixty-six
