Brooklyn Family - February 2026

FEBRUARY 2026

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

All Heart

Local Events You’ll Love!

NEW YORK SCHOOL OPTIONS Teens, Dating, and Real Talk A PARENT’S GUIDE

Check out our

CAMP FAIR MARCH 8

JOYFUL SCHOOLS THAT CELEBRATE STUDENTS AND PRIORITIZE FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS RIGOROUS, INCLUSIVE, STANDARDS-ALIGNED ACADEMIC PROGRAM

FREE DAILY AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS THROUGH 6PM

admissions@explorenetwork.org 347.201.0744 www.exploreschools.org

Serving the Brooklyn Community for 35 Summers!

Locations in Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, & Windsor Terrace. For ages 3.5 - 14.

The Park Slope Day Camp, since 1992!

A dynamic traditional day camp experience that grows with your child.

A welcoming and diverse community!

Enthusiastic, caring, & well-trained staff; accommodating schedules; professional management & organization; with air-conditioned buses. Transportation to and from most Brooklyn locations!

Join us for our Winter Mini Camp!

Presidents Week: February 16-20 Action packed trips everyday!

Join our mailing list!

“Best, most organized, most kid-centric camp. Amazing

counselors that are friendly and professional and fun.

Never a boring day and never worry about our kids’ safety and well-being!” - Parent Testimonial

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

3

CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2026 NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 12

pg. 36

pg. 28

pg. 34

pg. 24

FEATURES

STORIES & COLUMNS

12 | Parenting Lessons I’ve learned about growth while raising a neurodivergent child

6 | Editor’s Letter

14 | Education A closer look at charter schools 24 | Education Considering sending the kids to a Catholic school in New York City?

32 | Health Where to find the best pediatric emergency care in NYC 34 | Trending Parents and experts weigh in on what parenting styles work best for them

4 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

8 | Ask the Expert What parents need to know about teen relationships 28 | Camp Do siblings need to go to camp together?

FAMILY FUN 36 | Calendar The best family-friendly events happening this month

DIRECTORIES 16 | Charter school listings 26 | Catholic school lisitings

30 | Mom Stories How to nail co-parenting with your ex 38 | Family Day Out Bumper cars on ice at Bryant Park

My Bklyn. My Care.

PARENTING IS HARD. NOW, AT LEAST GETTING EMERGENCY CARE IS EASIER. Brooklyn’s only standalone children’s emergency department is now bigger and better, with 34 new, spacious, state-of-the-art rooms staffed by specialists from Maimonides Children’s Hospital, the borough’s only children’s hospital. Brooklyn’s kids will get exactly the help they need. Parents too. Get to know your neighborhood health system at maimo.org/mychild.

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

5

EDITOR’S NOTE

PUBLISHER: Clifford Luster EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Donna Duarte-Ladd ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Erin Brof ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Stacie Goldberg EDITORIAL LEAD: Jeannine Cintron DEPUTY EDITOR: Danielle Ramos EVENTS EDITOR: Shara Levine ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR: Soe Kabbabe 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

February, Frost & Family This editor’s letter is being written on the eve of a big snowstorm. As the New York Family team updates our site (newyorkfamily.com) with the latest resources and information, it’s also a reminder of what this city does best: show up for one another. It’s one of the many reasons we love raising families here.

Winter may still be in full force, but we’re already looking ahead, fingers crossed, to warmer days. This issue jumps straight into summer planning (only four months away!) with our camp coverage. Check out Do Siblings Need to Camp Together? (page 28), a must-read for parents weighing what works best for their kids.

February also brings us Valentine’s Day,

and with it, conversations about relationships in all their forms. We explore how parents can support teens as they navigate relationships (page 8) and share expert advice on nailing co-parenting with your ex (page 30).

And because navigating schools is a major parenting decision, you’ll also find smart, practical guides to understanding charter (page 14), and Catholic schools (page 24), so you can make informed choices with confidence.

Whether you’re tackling slush or claiming the couch as your winter headquarters, this issue has you covered.

New York Family

GET IN TOUCH Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York!

Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily

6 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Jeannine Cintron, 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.

New York Family is published monthly by Queens Family Media, LLC. Reproduction of New York Family Media in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. ©2026 Queens Family Media, LLC

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

7

ASK THE EXPERT

Teens and Relationships How parents can help navigate

BY KAITLYN RIGGIO

L

et’s face it: no parent is exactly eager for their kid to start dating. For many parents, a teen’s first relationship is an undeniable sign that they’re growing up and they’re not a little kid anymore.

But as much as parents may hesitate to admit it, relationships are part of life, especially as children become teens.

Relationships are an important avenue for teens to find their identity and place in the world, and guidance and open communication from parents can make the process easier.

We sat down with Samantha Quigneaux, LMFT, national director of family therapy services for Newport Healthcare, about how parents can help their teens navigate relationships as they get older.

Parents can start establishing the framework for teens to have healthy relationships early on. What might these early conversations look like?

Helping our children develop healthy relationships means discussing what characteristics of a friendship or relationship make us feel most safe, comfortable and happy. Are the people they surround themselves with kind, thoughtful, and considerate of their feelings and experiences?

These conversations can start as early as elementary school. When your child tells you about their friend, ask them “What do you like about this friend?” or “What kinds of things do you do together that you enjoy?”

This is also the time for you to help your child thoughtfully address conflict and learn how to advocate for themselves. If they tell you about a playground disagreement, ask them how they felt about the situation and what they did to help themselves feel better in the moment. This is an opportunity for collaborative problem-solving.

Some of the earliest relationships kids observe is the relationship between their parents. How can seeing this relationship

8 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

affect kids?

The relationship kids observe between their parents is unquestionably the most impactful. Children are incredibly observant and aware of dynamics that exist between their parents and family members. Like most situations, children learn how to interact with the world and those around them from their caregivers.

Children will look and learn unknowingly at communication and conflict resolution. This is applicable to parents who are coupled, uncoupled, as well as single parents. Children also internalize what they will view “acceptable” and “normal” relationship patterns from their parents and caregivers.

How can parents ensure they’re modeling a healthy relationship for their children?

Modeling healthy relationships is certainly heavy lifting. In order to do this, parents must be honest with themselves, and be able to take stock of the way they interact and communicate with their partners or other caregivers. Healthy relationships mean prioritizing feeling safe, valued, respected and cared for. Are these dynamics present in the home? When conflict comes up, is this done effectively or aggressively? Modeling a healthy relationship at its core is stopping to ask yourself “Is this the type of relationship

I would want my child to be in?” If not, consider what changes need to be made.

What advice can parents give to their teens as they’re getting ready to start dating?

As teens start to be interested in having a romantic relationship, it is important for parents to approach it with curiosity about how their teen views dating. Encourage open communication and discussion about what it is that interests them in dating and what they are looking for in a potential partner. How are they hoping to feel in a relationship?

Parents should remind their teens that a partner should help them to feel like the best true versions of themselves. Someone who cares for them and respects them will make them feel empowered and strong.

It is also important that parents remind their teens that dating can be an exciting adventure and journey of discovery, but to listen to their heart and gut; if something feels “off,” they should trust themselves and reach out for support.

It’s important for people of all ages to know what an abusive relationship looks like in order to stay safe. What are some warning signs for abusive relationships that teens in particular should look out for?

Abuse is all about power and control.

So, if at any point a teen is feeling as though

Give the Gift of a Catholic Education Faith. Excellence. Community. A gift that lasts forever.

The greatest gifts are those that shape our children’s hearts, minds, and futures. At Saint Mark Catholic Academy, we are blessed to partner with families in providing an education rooted in faith, academic excellence, character, and community.

For over 100 years, we’ve been a guiding light in Sheepshead Bay—helping children grow in faith, knowledge, and confidence.

Celebrate Our Strengths: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

A proud tradition: 100 years of embracing and uplifting the Sheepshead Bay community as a safe, nurturing environment where every child is cherished and known by name Proud of our engaging academics that spark curiosity and inspire lifelong learning Guided by Catholic values—helping children grow in kindness, respect, and faith Dedicated teachers who nurture each child’s gifts and encourage their dreams Fun and enriching after-school extracurricular activities where friendships and talents bloom

ENROLLMENT OPEN: We invite you to "Give the Gift of a Catholic Education."

Whether your child is entering 3K, Pre-K, or Kindergarten through Grade 8, now is the perfect time to secure a seat for the 2026–2027 school year. Seats are filling up quickly. www.smsonthebay.com/admissions | Call us: (718) 332-9304 Catholic education in the Diocese of Brooklyn is accessible to all, regardless of religious background. Our schools represent over 70 countries, speak more than 30 languages, and practice over 25 religions.

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family 9

ASK THE EXPERT Other Things to Keep in Mind

someone is trying to disempower them or control certain aspects of their lives, this is a big red flag. This may look like a partner telling them what to wear, who to hang out with, rules to adhere to, or to break.

Other warning signs are the teen’s mood and engagement in everyday things that previously brought them joy. If a teen is experiencing increased anxiety, depression, or emotional dysregulation, or if they no longer want to join the family for dinner and would rather isolate, these are critical warning signs of an unhealthy relationship.

Teens should be able to come to their parents with problems as they grow up, including relationship problems. How can parents lay the groundwork for this open communication?

The key here is curiosity rather than criticism. You want to show your teen that you are able to hold a safe, calm, and respectful space even when discussing difficult topics, and especially when your teen is being vulnerable.

When discussing relationships with your

Every teen is going to approach relationships differently. Some may lean towards engaging in more casual dating while others want a “serious” long term relationship. It is important to understand what your teen is looking for and not to judge or diminish their perspective.

This means not perpetuating stereotypes or belittling their intense feelings with comments like, “You’re only 16.

You’re not going to marry this person.” or “Be careful how many people you date so you don’t get a bad reputation.”

This type of “advice” does not address a parent’s deeper concerns, and it will likely put the teen on the defense. You also risk losing open

teen, try to go beyond “What did you do with them?” to “How does this person make you feel? What qualities do you like about them?”

Teens are working through their identity and finding their place in the world, and relationships are certainly a part of this. It is important to discuss with your teen the

communication. If parents notice concerning behaviors, it is important to approach it from an emotionally focused place.

Another element of teen dating that must also be under the umbrella of safety and communication are topics related to sex and sexuality. Parents need to be a safe place for their teens to express themselves, and to be able to have conversations about their bodies and their attractions.

These can be difficult topics at any age, particularly as teens develop their own notions around romance and sexuality. We want to reinforce to our teens that we can handle uncomfortable conversations about these important issues.

differences between privacy and secrecy. It is absolutely reasonable for there to be aspects that they do not share with their parent(s) because they are private and personal, but secrecy means they are intentionally withholding information that they fear may bring judgment, criticism, or punishment.

A K-12+ PRIVATE SCHOOL MEETING ALL LEARNERS WHERE THEY ARE At IDEAL, there’s a new kind of education.

Our inclusive mission, diverse and nurturing environment, and generous financial assistance foster a student body that represents a remarkable diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.

IDEAL’s strong and supportive arts program fosters creativity and self-expression in the visual arts, music, theater, and dance, enabling students to develop confidence, discipline, and an appreciation for cultural diversity.

20 YEARS PIONEERING INCLUSION EDUCATION

Scholarships & Tuition Assistance Available

located at 5 hanover square in lower manhattan with 5-borough accessibility

212-769-1699 • www.theidealschool.org

10 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

LEARN MORE

new york Family partner

La Cima Charter School: Where Every Child Can Reach The Peak

n

estled in the heart of Brooklyn, La Cima Charter School is more than just a place of learning—it’s a thriving community where children are empowered to dream, grow, and achieve. At La Cima, they know every child has untapped potential; it is their mission to provide students with the tools, resources, and support to excel academically and personally. The goal is to reach the peak!

La Cima (in English, “The Peak”) stands out for its innovative approach to education, blending rigorous academics with a nurturing environment that prioritizes the whole child.

From small group instruction to handson learning experiences, classrooms are vibrant spaces designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning.

Families choose La Cima for their commitment to excellence. The curriculum not

only emphasizes core subjects, like math and literacy, but also integrates enrichment programs in the arts, sciences, and physical education, ensuring students have a wellrounded experience. Dedicated teachers work hand-in-hand with families to create personalized learning plans that meet each child’s unique needs.

Beyond academics, La Cima is a school

+EXIW %ZI VH ȎSSV Brooklyn, NY 11221

Enrolling for the current or upcoming 2026-2027 school year!

2025-2026 www.lacimacharterschool.org

where character is cultivated. Through emphasis on values like respect, perseverance, and responsibility, students are prepared not just for the classroom, but for life.

Parents often remark on the transformation they see in their children as they grow more confident, compassionate, and eager to tackle challenges as La Cima students.

Imagine your child thriving in a supportive environment surrounded by peers and mentors who inspire them to dream big. Imagine them returning home each day, brimming with excitement about the discoveries they’ve made and the goals they’ve achieved. At La Cima Charter School, this vision is a reality.

Join their community and give your child the opportunity to climb high and reach the peak! At La Cima the future begins now. Visit today to learn more about enrollment.

ABOUT LA CIMA

The mission of La Cima Elementary Charter School is to prepare our students for academic and life-long success through a rigorous academic program.

OUR SCHOLARS EXPERIENCE

Achild centered environment Aculturally sensitive curriculum An Arts Program that includes African Dance & Drumming, Music + Instrument Lessons, and Visual Art Free Afterschool

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

11

PARENTING

When a Meatball is the Milestone Lessons I’ve learned about growth while raising a neurodivergent child

BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD

M

ilestones are everywhere in early parenting; they even happen before the baby arrives. Then it begins: the first steps, the first words, the first time they smile, and sleeping through the night (um, sleeping?... come on!). Even passing gas is a celebration.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) describes developmental milestones as key skills or behaviors that most children typically achieve by certain ages. So what happens when milestones are so far off your child’s timeline? For parents like me, raising a neurodivergent child, milestones can feel more like reminders of what isn’t happening “on time.”

My youngest son (who is adopted) came to us at two weeks old. While he showed little delay at first, over time, clouds of worry began to settle into that place in my body where I couldn’t tuck them away. Like most parents who start noticing the gaps, that quiet intuition kept creeping in. I knew. I felt it. His growth was different. I saw it more clearly when we were around other kids.

Okay, show-offs, talking a mile a minute, knowing what a carrot was!

Those worries lived with me quietly until they finally had a name. Then came the diagnosis: my youngest son is autistic.

And with that, milestones... poof... kind of stopped being a thing for us.

While the mention of milestones makes me want to dive straight into my villain era (because we rarely, if ever, check these boxes on schedule), the truth is that milestones

12 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

are important. Especially when your child doesn’t follow them, they become a roadmap —a way to understand where they are, sensory-wise, motor-wise, socially... all that good stuff. And in our case, neuro-wise too.

For me, it’s been about reframing what a milestone looks like. And in the absence of this standard measurement, it becomes the foundation of advocacy for my babe.

Because, like it or not, the moment you become the parent of a child with challenges, you’re not just a parent anymore — you’re a warrior mom. Not that you weren’t already showing up fully. But with a typically developing child, there’s at least the assumption that they’ll move through school and life with some independence, learning, growing, and finding their way.

With a neurodivergent child, that path is much less certain. You realize that their life isn’t just going to unfold — you’re going to have to help build it. In our case, every single

aspect of it, so far.

There’s nothing like people seeing my cute kid and then, not always, but sometimes, the look on their face when they realize he wants to be held (he’s nine... upside: my arms get a good workout), or when he starts to stim. The stimming can be the clincher.

But this isn’t about how other people relate to or react to my child.

For many parents of autistic kids or kids with other challenges, we see accomplishments, in all their chaos and weirdness (and trust me, he does some wild stuff), through a completely different lens.

Everything takes on a new perspective.

It’s also about how I show up. What matters to me? How do I celebrate his milestones — the ones that don’t come with applause or checklists?

Letting go of societal benchmarks has helped me tune in to his timeline, his wins,

and what truly matters most. That doesn’t mean I toss caution to the wind. There are IEPs, life plans with his care manager, goals set with his care broker — the people who help me manage and shape his world. It means there’s more bending, more flexibility, more understanding — and a whole lot of patience.

And getting to this point wasn’t easy.

I still remember the day the school psychologist called after an IEP meeting and said something that spun into days of sadness.

He explained that due to the severity of my child’s delays, he would automatically pass from grade to grade without needing to meet typical academic benchmarks — he wouldn’t be tested in the usual way. I sat there, trying to process his words. I knew what he was gently sharing, but all I could think was, ‘I don’t want school to be daycare for his entire school experience.’ I want him to be seen, to learn, to be challenged and supported — not just passed through the system quietly.

That call cracked something open in

With a neurodivergent child, the path is much less certain.

You realize that their life isn’t just going to unfold — you’re going to have to help build it. me. It was a wake-up call, a clear sign that I had to let go of other people’s definitions of progress, including my own. It’s not that the experts don’t mean well, I love my son’s school — but I knew then I needed to lean harder into what growth looks like for him.

What kind of milestones have we celebrated lately? Recently, it was a meatball. Yes, a meatball. After years of trying to get my guy to eat meat/protein, a few weeks back he stole a meatball from his big brother’s plate and has finally opened himself up to Trader Joe’s meatballs — and this mom lost it. It

made the family thread. It was BIG news.

That’s how we celebrate our milestones.

A new food. Petting a dog. Picking up after himself. Helping me when I drop something.

It’s exciting, and we don’t take much for granted. These aren’t things you’ll find on any pediatrician’s checklist — but in our world, they’re everything.

Each one is a little breakthrough. A little more connection, independence, or ease.

These are the moments that we celebrate; they’re not flashy, but because they’re his.

They feel big, because they are big — hardwon, real, and entirely on his timeline.

Letting go of traditional milestone pressure hasn’t meant giving up; it is about finding a new approach. It’s rooting in, paying attention, and showing up for what’s real. And there’s liberation in that.

If you’re a parent walking this road too, know this: grace, patience, and redefining progress are acts of love. Some of us are walking different roads, but we are moving, and that sure seems like progress to me.

For us at Casa Ladd, this means a meatball, not a milestone, is everything.

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

13

EDUCATION

A Closer Look at Charter Schools

BY HANNAH MALLARD

C

harter schools are independentlyoperated public schools accountable for advancing student achievement.

New York City’s 281 charter schools are independent of the New York City Department of Education, but if they don’t meet certain student achievement standards, they can be closed. This combination of freedom and accountability allows charter teachers to adapt their classrooms based on their students’ needs while pushing for high academic achievement.

New York City’s charter schools have become a popular option for many students, especially from minority and economically disadvantaged families. Charter schools offer students opportunities for academic success that unfortunately cannot be said for some of the city’s public schools.

We’ve included a list of charter school benefits below to help you and your family consider if a charter school is the right fit for your student!

NYC Charters Do Not Succeed at the Expense of District Schools

14 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

A common myth is that as New York’s charter schools succeed, the city’s traditional public schools fail as a result.

A 2018 study by the Manhattan Institute concluded that “competition from New York City charter schools has either no effect, or a positive effect,” on the city’s traditional public schools.

In fact, district schools have improved significantly as charter schools have spread throughout New York City’s five boroughs.

Funding for district schools has also increased as the student population at charter schools has gone up over the years.

Charter Schools are Specialized, with No Tuition Costs Charter teachers adapt their classrooms and teaching methods to the current needs of their students. This freedom in the curriculum, teaching style, school missions and policies resembles that of private schools, enabling charter schools to provide the very best approach to academics that fits their students.

Though teachers have flexibility, charter schools are held accountable for levels of high academic achievement. If charter institutions

underperform, they can be closed.

Charter Schools Have Ample Funding About $18,340 is spent per pupil at New York’s charter schools (as per most recent NYSED Public School Data). Though this is less than the average funding per pupil in traditional district schools, charter schools and teachers clearly make the most out of their budget.

This funding by not-for-profit Boards of Trustees means that parents of charter students don’t have to spend money out of their own pockets to ensure their child receives a great education!

Charter Schools Don’t Pick Their Students New York City’s charter schools admit students through a lottery system; they cannot select their students. This process gives students from all backgrounds and education levels an equal opportunity to attend and achieve academic success at charter schools.

This piece originally appeared in our sister publication, AMNY

• Award Winning Education • Proven Results • Free and open to all • 20+ schools across Brooklyn Serving Grades PreK-12

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

15

CHARTER SCHOOLS DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Ascend Charter Schools Locations in Brownsville, Bushwick, Canarsie, Cypress Hills, East Brooklyn, East Flatbush, Flatbush 347-464-7600 ascendlearning.org Ascend Public Charter Schools is a network of K-12 public schools in Brooklyn dedicated to providing all students rich and challenging academics coupled with joyful learning experiences that empower students to live a life of boundless choice.

Ascend schools are set apart by their approach to literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading, application of inquiry-based learning, a Responsive Classroom model, and their commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism.

Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter Schools Elementary School: 82 Lewis Ave, Brooklyn

High School: 217 N 10th St,, Brooklyn bsnbcs.org Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter Schools is a free public charter school that proudly serves grades K-11 (K-12 in 20272028). As one of the highest performing, independent charter schools Brooklyn has to offer, BSNBCS prides itself for developing a differentiated and student centered curriculum- all at no cost to families. With beautiful classroom environments, free academic and recreational field trips, celebrations and social & academic support, all students have what they need to thrive.

Brooklyn Lab Charter School 77 Sands Street, Brooklyn 347-473-8340 admissions@bklabprep.org bklabprep.org Brooklyn Laboratory Charter School (LAB) provides innovative, customized

* ! ķ " ( !ķ ! ) $ " & $+ķ &! + )b|_ Ɛƕ uoohѴ mŊ0-v;7 ;Ѵ;l;m|-u ķ lb77Ѵ;ķ -m7 _b]_ v1_ooѴvķ ; v rrou| v| 7;m|v =uol 7- om; |_uo ]_ ]u-7 -|bomĺ & ! " " ! $ ! "| 7;m|v =oul Ѵ-v|bm] u;Ѵ-|bomv_brv _bѴ; 7; ;Ѵorbm] 1_-u-1|;u -m7 Ѵ;-7;uv_br vhbѴѴv |_-| ru;r-u; |_;l =ou Ѵb=;ĺ $ ! ( + ƐƏƏѷ o= v1;m7Ľv Ѵ-vv o= ƑƏƑƔ -v -11;r|;7 |o - =o uŊ ;-u 1oѴѴ;]; ou mb ;uvb| ĺ

obm v |_bv =-ѴѴĴ o -11;r|bm] -rrѴb1-|bomv =ou ]u-7;v ŋƖĹ -v1;m7Ѵ;-umbm]ĺou]ņ;muoѴѴ

16 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

learning for scholars in grades 6–12. Located in a bright, beautiful, stateof-the-art, safe building in Downtown Brooklyn, LAB is conveniently accessible by bus/train. Brooklyn Lab prepares and equips scholars with the academic foundation and leadership skills they need to succeed in college and in life. All LAB scholars will experience a rich academic program including Advanced Placement Courses (AP), SAGA Math Tutoring, Princeton Review SAT Test Preparation and STEAM courses. LAB also promotes a Whole-Child Education, providing college counseling + exposure, SEL support + coursework, athletics, clubs, electives and culturally relevant staff and enrichment programming.

Brooklyn Prospect Charter Schools Locations throughout Brooklyn CSD 13 & 15 brooklynprospect.org

Brooklyn Prospect is a K-12 college preparatory network of seven schools where excellent educators support a diverse community of learners to explore passions, make positive social change, and achieve strong academic outcomes. Brooklyn Prospect Schools is an International Baccalaureate (IB) world school community with the aim of giving students the education needed to thrive in a global community.

They offer after-school programming until 6pm every day, and also invest in students’ physical and mental well-being with outdoor activities, sports and socioemotional curriculum.

Broome Street Academy (BSA) 212-453-0295 Admissions@ broomestreetacademy.org broomestreetacademy.org Broome Street Academy (BSA), a tuition-free public charter high school in

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

17

CHARTER SCHOOLS DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

SoHo, provides a dynamic environment, responsive to every student’s unique needs.

Housed under the same roof as The Door, a youth development organization, BSA offers unique holistic resources—from arts, college, and career programs to no-cost health services.

BSA’s social workers and 9:1 student-teacher ratio ensures individualized support. BSA also offers athletics; after school clubs; AP courses; and a National Honor Society.

BSA students get everything they need to thrive. BSA is accepting applications for the 9th lottery through April 1st and transfers on a rolling basis.

Community Roots Charter School Middle School: 50 Navy St, Brooklyn Elementary School: 51 Saint Edwards St, Brooklyn 718-522-2166 communityroots.org dforsythe@communityroots.

org Community Roots Charter Middle School is a rigorous public learning community serving grades 6 through 8 where education is embedded in meaningful real-world contexts and children are taught to see the connections between school and the world. Students will meet or exceed the Common Core Standards and be prepared to excel in the 21st century by becoming independent thinkers and working productively within a diverse group of learners.

Students learn to combine curiosity with appropriate application, which leads to deep understanding and the confidence to become who they want to be.

Compass Charter School 300 Adelphi Street, Brooklyn brooklyncompass.org Located in the historic Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, Compass Charter School is a safe, nurturing

learning community serving students from Pre-K through 5th grade. Through playbased, inquiry-driven learning, both in the classroom and outdoors, students explore their interests, ask meaningful questions, and build a strong sense of self. Graduates build the creativity, flexibility, and confidence they need to thrive academically and personally, and to make a positive impact in their communities. Compass is also excited to be in the process of expanding to include a middle school, continuing their commitment to engaging, student-centered learning beyond the elementary years.

Explore Schools Prospect Heights, Crown Heights, Flatbush & Canarsie exploreschools.org/enroll Explore Schools of Brooklyn has committed to providing students with the academic skills and critical thinking abilities they need to succeed in a college-preparatory high

school. They serve students in grades K-8 across central Brooklyn. Their curriculum is aligned with the Common Core, and they are committed to creating a culturally responsive program and providing special education services. Their academic program is strong, as more students perform proficiently or higher on NYS Exams than in other city and district public schools.

Hellenic Classical Charter Schools (HCCS) 646 Fifth Ave. 718-499-0957 hccs-nys.org The Hellenic Classical Charter Schools provide their diverse student populations with a rigorous education enriched with the classical study of the Greek and Latin languages, Paideia Socratic Seminars, and career- and collegeready curriculum, preparing students for long-term academic success. This year marks the 20th anniversary of

Now Accepting K–12 Applications for the 2026–27 School Year in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan!

Apply today at kippnyc.org/enroll

My teachers make me feel like I can do anything.

– Emmanuel, KIPP NYC Student

18 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

A nurturing & rigorous PreK-5th grade elementary school in Fort Greene

We engage students Pre-K-5th grade with an innovative and hands-on curriculum that honors the individuality of each learner.

Limited seats available for 2025-2026!

2026-2027 application now open!

AP

• On-site afterschool programming • Free breakfast, snack, and lunch • ICT Classes • Speech, occupational and physical therapy, counseling, and paraprofessionals

300 Adelphi St, Brooklyn NY

!

What Makes Our School Different?

What We Offer • Busing for qualified K-5 students

PLY T O D AY

• 2 teachers per classroom • Hands-on learning, focused on science, social justice, and the arts

• Mutual Aid Fund to support families with rent, food, and utility costs

• We prioritize play! We’re outside for recess, gardening, Forest School, Shore School or field visits

• Dedicated ELL Specialist and Learning Specialists to provide services for ELL students

• Active learning through projects, discussions, and field trips

• Multilingual communication with families through Parent Square

brooklyncompass.org (718) 310-3588

• Studio program with music, visual art, sustainability, and physical education • Onsite library for students to borrow books

Middle School Expansion in Progress!

Apply Now! For Fall 2026 ApplyToSA.org February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

19

CHARTER SCHOOLS DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

HCCS-Park Slope, a milestone that highlights two decades of excellence and community impact. HCCS-Park Slope was named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2019. HCCS ranks among the top New York City charter schools and is designated a Repeat Reward School and High Performing School by the New York State Education Department.

KIPP NYC Locations across Brooklyn, Bronx and Manhattan 929-822-4430 enroll@kippnyc.org kippnyc.org KIPP NYC operates 18 public charter schools across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan, serving over 9,000 K–12 students. With a rich blend of engaging and challenging academics, cocurricular activities, sports, and social-emotional support, the K–12+ model offers comprehensive support from kindergarten through college, career and beyond.

La Cima Charter School 800 Gates Ave, 3rd Fl. 718-443-2136 info@lacimacharterschool.org lacimacharterschool.org La Cima Charter School in Brooklyn, New York, is a public charter school committed to academic excellence, character development, and family partnership. Serving a diverse community, La Cima emphasizes strong literacy and math instruction, supportive socialemotional learning, and high expectations for every student. The school fosters a nurturing environment where children are challenged to grow intellectually and personally while families are engaged as active partners in student success through inclusive programs and dedicated educators citywide.

PAVE Academy Charter School 732 Henry Street, Brooklyn paveschools.org

26-27 REGISTER NOW / REGÍSTRATE AHORA

20 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

PAVE is a K-8 collegepreparatory charter school in Red Hook that lays the foundation for a productive and choice-filled life. PAVE provides its students with a rigorous academic program and a community built on the school’s core values of Perseverance, Achievement, Vibrance and Excellent Character (PAVE). At PAVE students are built brick by brick; equipping them with the academic, social, and emotional skills that they need to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, overcomers, and leaders in their communities.

Success Academy Several locations throughout NYC successacademies.org Success Academy is the topperforming K-12 public school system in NYC. Find locations near you in the Bronx, Harlem, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Success Academy fosters a love of learning while

creating opportunities for children to become critical and creative thinkers, build life skills and confidence, pursue passions, and secure exceptional careers. Their dual mission is to build worldclass K-12 public schools in NYC while advocating for policies that enable children to access excellent educational experiences.

Summit Academy Charter 27 Huntington St., Brooklyn summitacademycharterschool. org Summit Academy Charter School is a vibrant learning community where students grow academically, socially, and creatively. They deliver a rigorous, college-preparatory education with a focus on innovation and real-world skills. From interactive STEM labs to esports, and leadership programs, scholars explore their talents while developing essential life skills.

A supportive environment

APPLY NOW! FOR THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR Free, exceptional public education Accepting applications for all grades K - 8th Free After-School programming until 6:00pm Did you know that PAVE is outperforming the district, city, and state on New York state exams?

Learn more about us!

www.paveschools.org

718-858-7813

@pave_redhook

Accepting applications for K-8th grade for the 2026-2027 school year!

Apply online today at communityroots.org!

Any child who is eligible for NYC Public Schools is eligible to apply!

CRCS is an exceptional K-8 inclusive and diverse public school option. It centers an anti-bias approach and social justice curriculum.

Please email dforsythe@communityroots.org or call 718-858-1629 for more information.

Community Roots Elementary School 51 Saint Edwards Street, Third Floor Brooklyn, NY 11205

communityroots.org

Community Roots Middle School 50 Navy Street, Third Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201 February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

21

CHARTER SCHOOLS DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

encourages curiosity, resilience, and collaboration.

Dedicated educators guide students from middle through high school, ensuring each scholar is prepared for college, career, and life— helping them reach higher, dream bigger, and achieve more.

Uncommon Schools 23 Schools throughout Brooklyn 718-363-5024 enroll@uncommonschools.org nyc.uncommonschools.org Serving grades PreK-12.

Uncommon Schools are fiercely dedicated to helping all scholars succeed in college and beyond. Since their founding in 2004, Uncommon Schools have served Brooklyn families with an award-winning instructional model that supports students’ academic and personal growth.

Their teachers infuse joy into every day, creating an active, engaged learning environment. Uncommon

C

CHOOSE CHARTER “WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE”

APPLY NOW-GRADES9-12 WCHS Offers • Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Classes • Student-Driven Course Selection • Visual Arts + Performing Arts • College and Career Prep • Special Education (SPED) • Sports, Clubs and Much More

Our Mission We strive to unite youth, families, staff, teachers and the community at large in providing prospective and current students with the necessary tools to make sense of adulthood and the ever changing world.

UPCOMING OPEN HOUSES

Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 10:00 AM (347) 217 - 6995 • WWW.THEWCS.ORG/APPLY 198 Varet Street Brooklyn, NY 11206 22 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

Schools are free public schools open to all NYC residents, with no selection criteria or application fees.

Williamsburg Charter High School 198 Varet St. 347-217-6995 admissions@thewcs.org thewcs.org WCHS unites youth, families, staff, teachers and the community at large in providing young people with the tools necessary to become citizens of the local and global community. Students at WCHS accomplish this through participation in a liberal arts education that includes language, literature, writing, science, history, mathematics, the visual and performing arts, technology and explorations in justice, independent thinking, respect and compassion for themselves and others as well as critical thinking, communication and research.

Partner with Us

Want to reach engaged parents across New York City?

Collaborate with the New York Family Media team to spread the word about your launches, promotions and news. Reach us by emailing info@newyorkfamily.com or calling 718.260.4554

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

23

EDUCATION

Considering Catholic School in New York City?

BY MIA SALAS

C

hoosing a school for our kids in New York can feel like navigating a maze.

Public, private, charter, Catholic—each option comes with its own pros and cons. We’ve all been through the headache of trying to figure out the best fit for our child, navigating information from school tours, websites, and word of mouth from other parents. For many of us, whether religious or not, Catholic school enters the conversation. With its long-standing history in New York and values-driven education, both Catholic and non-Catholic families often consider Catholic school for their child.

If you’re weighing your options now, we’re here to help. Whether it’s making the final call between public, private or Catholic school, or learning more about how faith is integrated into Catholic school education as a non-Catholic family, this guide will help you find the right fit for your family.

What is Catholic school, and how does it work in New York?

Before we dive in, let’s do a quick overview of Catholic schools and what to expect. Catholic schools have been part of New York’s education landscape for more than a century, originally founded to serve immigrant families seeking both education and community. Today, Catholic schools typically serve students from Pre-K through eighth grade, with some schools extending through high school.

They follow New York State academic standards while also incorporating religious education and Catholic values into the school culture. While they are faith-based institutions, Catholic schools in New York serve families of many backgrounds, and a significant number of students are not Catholic.

How much do Catholic schools cost?

One of the biggest reasons families consider Catholic school actually is cost. Compared to private schools, Catholic schools are often more affordable, sometimes costing a fraction of traditional independent school tuition.

However, if you’re deciding between free pub-

24 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

lic education and Catholic school, the cost can feel like a major shift. The benefit though is predictability, which many parents appreciate.

Tuition increases tend to be more modest and transparent, and many schools offer sibling discounts or financial aid. If you’re planning ahead or budgeting for more than one child, this stability can make a real difference.

The question of whether to commit to the extra cost of Catholic school compared to free public school (or reduce the cost of education compared to many private schools) comes down to what you prioritize in your child’s education. Read on to learn more about Catholic school academics, values, faith, and community to help you choose the right path.

Catholic school academic curriculum and performance Catholic schools have long been known for academic rigor, and many of the nation’s leaders across education, politics, and business are Catholic school alumni.

According to Catholic Schools NY, Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York students consistently outperform their public school peers, and achieve comparable results to New York City’s charter schools.

But as parents, we know test scores are not the most important factor when it comes to choosing our child’s school. A big part of making the decision comes down to the learning environment itself and whether it’s the right fit. Catholic schools often prioritize hands-on learning and experiences, with less time spent

listening in classrooms. Learning is very structured, with discipline built into the curriculum from day one. Children benefit from smaller class sizes and more individualized attention, helping them build confidence, accountability and a strong sense of self alongside academics.

For little ones who thrive in more active, structured learning environments, Catholic school can work well, even if your family is not Catholic. But if you are looking for a more traditional approach to education, or if your child doesn’t necessarily need such structure or hands-on opportunities, then you might consider public, private or charter schools instead.

Faith in Catholic school day-to-day education One of the biggest questions for non-Catholic families is– how does faith show up in Catholic school education? Even if the academic approach and learning environment feel like a good fit, it’s totally reasonable to still have doubts about choosing a school that doesn’t align with your faith. Faith typically shows up through religion class, daily or weekly prayer, and the observance of major religious holidays.

For non-Catholic families, participation is generally respectful and inclusive, with an emphasis on shared values rather than conversion.

What many non-Catholic families who choose Catholic schools find is that faithbased values are woven into day-to-day learning, especially in early childhood education. These values, centered around building character development, are a key reason

QUESTIONS FOR THE TOUR

why non-Catholic families choose Catholic schools. Read on to learn more about how values-based learning works.

Values-based learning in Catholic school One of the defining features of Catholic education is its focus on character. Catholic schools prioritize discipline, personal responsibility and moral development alongside traditional academics. There is a strong emphasis on kindness and empathy, especially in the early childhood and elementary years.

At younger ages, schools often focus on helping children develop their unique voice.

Teachers work closely with students through hands-on learning projects to instill confidence, compassion, and sense of responsibility. Community service is introduced early, reinforcing the idea that helping others is a natural part of belonging to a community.

For families who are not Catholic but are drawn to values-based education, this focus can be especially appealing.

Catholic schools also tend to work well for children who benefit from clear rules and

If you’re visiting Catholic schools soon, here are a few helpful questions to ask on tours: • How does the school support non-Catholic students and families?

• What does a typical school day look like?

• How are discipline and conflict handled?

• How involved are parents in the school community?

• How does the school develop the full child, beyond academics?

and communicate frequently with parents. For families seeking a school environment that keeps them in the loop and invites them to get involved, Catholic schools can be great.

Community also shows up in the dayto-day learning environment. Students are taught to work together to solve problems, discuss concepts in groups, and help their peers out. If your child does better in collaborative settings, Catholic school might also benefit them, as they’ll be encouraged to develop close relationships starting in Pre-K.

routine. For many students, that consistency creates a sense of safety that supports both emotional growth and academic focus.

Community and personal experience in Catholic Schools Community, one of the values in the Catholic faith, is another unexpected area where many families see a difference. Catholic schools tend to be smaller, which can foster closer relationships between parents, teachers, and administration. Teachers get to know students well

Is Catholic school the right fit?

Like most school decisions, choosing a Catholic school is about finding the right fit for your family. For many parents, these schools offer a values-driven, character-building education alongside strong academics, a closeknit community, and a tuition that often feels more accessible than traditional private school. Catholic schools can be especially appealing to families who want individualized attention for their children, without losing the sense of structure and belonging that comes from a smaller school environment.

NURTURING CHILDREN FROM NURSERY TO 8TH GRADE

At Saint Saviour Catholic Academy, small class sizes,, a diverse student population, and dedicated faculty and staff create an environment where children can grow socially and emotionally as well as academically.

Student-Centered Academics 15:1 Student to Teacher Ratio 1:1 Chromebooks/iPads for K - 8th Grade Classroom Promethean Boards Regular Special Subject Area Instruction (Art, Music, Spanish, Library, PE) Literacy Skills Development Regents Level Cour Courses in 8th Grade Before and After School ol Care Affordable Tuition and Assistance Available Through Futures in Education

Schedule A Tour Today!

701 8th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215 718-768-8000 admissions@sscaparkslope.org admissions@sscaparkslope org www.saintsaviourcatholicacademy.org rg

Children are educated and nurtured in accordance with the Catholic values of kindness, compassion, empathy, and social responsibility.

Small School, Big Heart

Visit us on:

Est. 1908

@SaintSaviourCatholicAcademy y February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

25

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

St. Edmund Preparatory High School

Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy

Saint Mark Catholic Academy

Saint Saviour Catholic Academy

2474 Ocean Avenue Brooklyn 718-743-6100 admissions@stedmundprep. org stedmundprep.org St. Edmund Preparatory High School is a Catholic co-educational community where Bold Learning ignites the mind, heart, and spirit.

Their rigorous, collaborative curriculum challenges students to think creatively and lead with compassion.

Grounded in Catholic values, they cultivate servant leaders through small classes, robotics, arts, athletics, and faith programs. St. Edmund Prep empowers young men and women to develop habits of character—justice, courage, and humility—to confidently create a better, more whole world.

241 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn 718-768-7629 sjwca.org Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy serves students in pre-K through grade 8 in Windsor Terrace.

The school fosters spiritual development, academic excellence, self-responsibility, and service to others. SJWCA offers a challenging core curriculum aligned with the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards.

SJWCA provides a studentcentered, socially responsive environment where faculty are dedicated to supporting the whole child. Students also take courses in Spanish, art, music, technology, and physical education, and are offered a wide array of enrichment classes.

2602 E 19th St, Brooklyn 718-332-9304 smcaonthebay.org Saint Mark Catholic Academy, a faith community of students (ages 3 - grade 8), parents and teachers, is dedicated to personal excellence in the traditions of the school’s Catholic education heritage.

The academy values the uniqueness and dignity of all individuals, and respects the diversity of nationalities, races and religions true to their Sheepshead Bay location. The academy stands committed to training analytical learners, critical thinkers, and responsible decision makers for further study in the 21st century’s global and technological society.

701 8th Ave, Brooklyn 718-768-8000 saintsaviourcatholicacademy. org Saint Saviour Catholic Academy nurtures students from Nursery through to Grade 8. They provide a supportive environment where students grow academically and socially with a strong sense of community.

The academy’s focus is to encourage students to be enthusiastic learners who value academic and personal growth all while embodying the values of compassion and empathy. SSCA is a great option for parents interested in individualized attention within an ethnically and religiously diverse student population.

is now part of

Conveniently located in the heart of Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, SJWCA offers a diverse and inclusive environment for students in 3K through grade 8 Features... ∙ Rigorous Academics ∙ 1:1 Chromebooks ∙ Updated Classrooms ∙ Algebra I Regents

∙ STEM Lab ∙ Band & Violin ∙ Robotics Lab ∙ Scholarships ∙ Living Environment

Now touring & accepting applications 718.768-7629

www.sjwca.org

26 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

Mommybites.com provides expertly curated resources for all parents in the New York area, including our most popular feature — our mom-generated nanny board — the best online source for parents to find vetted (by other parents), experienced nannies and childcare providers who want to work in New York City, Westchester, Long Island and Northern New Jersey.

Visit Mommybites.com; we can’t wait to see you there!

We’re so Social

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

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

27

CAMP

Do Siblings Need to Go to Camp Together?

BY JESS MICHAELS

W

hen searching for an overnight camp, many parents begin the process with their oldest child in mind, often hoping it will be a good fit for younger siblings as well. While there are many advantages to sending children to camp together, it’s important to recognize that each child is different and may need a different camp experience to truly thrive.

Choosing a camp that siblings can attend together offers numerous benefits. Renee Flax from the American Camp Association helps parents find the right camp for their children and says, “It certainly is easier for parents when their children go to camp together.

They start and end camp at the same time, have the same visiting days, and it’s easy to keep track of all the logistics. Another strong benefit is that your children have a shared experience and bond over the memories of camp together.”

Matt Krounder, Owner and Director of Camp Schodack, a coed overnight camp in New York says it’s heartwarming to see how some siblings at camp seek each other out

28 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

during choice time to do activities together or to just find time to chat. “Older siblings will have check-ins with younger siblings to see how they are adjusting to camp and to help them with any questions, particularly when the younger sibling is starting camp for the first time. Families will often tell me that this dynamic starts well before camp begins, with older siblings answering questions about camp which helps create a strong bond between them.”

For many parents, it’s important that their children go to camp together so during the initial camp search, keep both children in mind. “Look into camps that offer a broad spectrum of activities and focus. There are many camps out there that can satisfy that need and be a great choice for your children even if they are very different people,” comments Flax.

Other parents recognize that their children have different needs and that while one camp is good for one, it may not be the best for the other. “The most important thing is to find the right fit for each child so when parents feel one of their children will benefit from a very different experience or would

thrive in a program focused on a specific activity, it can certainly make sense to have them at different camps,” comments Krouner.

“In these situations, I encourage parents to find camps that they trust equally and to have a clear understanding of the differences between the programs. This will help set expectations, both for the parents and how this choice is communicated to their children.”

Sometimes parents start children off at camp together, but then realize that it’s not working out for one of them. Don’t be afraid to consider a switch. “You don’t want to sacrifice one child’s camp experience for the other. If one of your children is still happy at the camp and you believe it’s still the right place for them, then that child should stay at the camp. But if your other child is not being fulfilled for whatever reason, then select a camp that will suit their needs. Above all, you want both of your children to have camp experiences where they are flourishing.”

Ashleigh Jackowitz, Director of Camp Winaukee, an all-boys camp in New Hampshire feels the best gift we can give our children is a camp that fits their unique personality. “It’s important to stay open to the possibility that siblings might need different programs to thrive. For some, that means going to camp together; for others, it means carving out their own independent identity. Success isn’t measured by whether siblings are at the same camp, but by whether each child is in the environment that supports them best.”

AWARD-WINNING EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS

Join The Best* in Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery For Your Complimentary Consultation BREAST FACE DERMATOLOGY FACE BREAST MEDSPA BODY BODY Facelift/Mini Lift Augmentation Mommy Hydrafacial | Microneedling MakeoverMakeover Skin Cancer Mommy Facelift/Mini Lift Screenings Augmentation | Emsculpt Coolsculpting Rhinoplasty Reduction Reduction TummyTummy Tuck Acne Tuck Rhinoplasty| Rashes | Rosacea Skin Tightening | Morpheus8 Wart, Skin Tag & Mole Removal Eyelid Lift | Neck Lift Reconstruction Liposuction Reconstruction Liposuction Eyelid Lift / Neck Lift Botox & Fillers Lift Arm Lift | Body Lift Laser Hair Removal | Miradry ® Eczema | Psoriasis | Alopecia ®

®

Arm Lift | Body Lift

Lift

®

®

Botox & Fillers

Celebrity Plastic Surgeon and Expert Injector Celebrity Plastic Surgeon and Expert Injector *

*

STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S.

STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Stephanie A. Cooper, M.D. | Jason M. Weissler, M.D., F.A.C.S. | Jacqueline Ross, M.D. | Sarah Donohue PA-C

Stephanie A. Cooper, M.D. | Jason M. Weissler, M.D., F.A.C.S. | Jacqueline Ross, M.D. | Sarah Donohue PA-C Eve Lupenko, M.D., F.A.A.D. | Joseph Sarhan, M.D. | George Lopez PA-C

Experience Makes The Difference

Experience Makes The Difference

You are Invited for a Complimentary Surgical or Injection Consultation

You are Invited for a Complimentary Surgical or Injection Consultation, MANHATTAN PLUS Schedule Your Dermatology Appointment Accepting Medicare and Most Insurance Plans SMITHTOWN 222 E MAIN ST, STE 228 SMITHTOWN, NY 11787 SMITHTOWN 631.265.1351

222 E MAIN ST, STE 228

45 E 72ND ST, STE 1C WOODBURY NEW YORK, NY 10021 160 CROSSWAYS PARK DR 212.319.4999

WOODBURY, NY 11797 WOODBURY 160 CROSSWAYS PARK DR 516.364.4200 WOODBURY, NY 11797

PRINCETON SMITHTOWN, NY 11787 300 B PRINCETON HIGHTSTOWN RD, STE 101 631.265.1351 EAST WINDSOR, NJ 08520 609.699.9442 PRINCETON

300 B PRINCETON HIGHTSTOWN RD, STE 101 EAST WINDSOR, NJ 08520 609.699.9442

516.364.4200 MANHATTAN 45 E 72ND ST, STE 1C NEW YORK, NY 10021 212.319.4999

SOUTHAMPTON 365 COUNTY RD 39A, STE 7 SOUTHAMPTON, NY 11968 SOUTHAMPTON 631.287.4999

365 COUNTY RD 39A, STE 7

SCARSDALE SOUTHAMPTON, NY 11968 2 OVERHILL631.287.4999 RD, STE 240 SCARSDALE, NY 10583 914.637.6299 SCARSDALE

2 OVERHILL RD, STE 240 SCARSDALE, NY 10583 914.637.6299

GreenbergCosm eticSurgery.com *VOTED BY: SCHNEPS MEDIA, LI HERALD, AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF PLASTIC SURGEONS, NEW BEAUTY, VITALS, DAN’S PAPERS, FIND A TOP DOC, NAOPS

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family 29 GreenbergCosm eticSurgery.com

*VOTED BY: SCHNEPS MEDIA, LI HERALD, AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF PLASTIC SURGEONS, NEW BEAUTY, VITALS, DAN’S PAPERS, FIND A TOP DOC, NAOPS

MOM STORIES

How to Nail Co-Parenting with Your Ex

BY JEANNINE CINTRON

I

started my co-parenting journey in the middle of a pandemic, and I promise you it was not all sunshine and rainbows. Think: working remotely while schooling remotely with an essential worker co-parent who was not remotely able to help out. It was tough, but I learned a lot along the way.

While some married people feel like single parents, there’s no loneliness in the world like actual single parenting. Unless you have the most stable relationship in the world with your former spouse, the days will be long and the parenting will be solo. But, you will figure it out eventually; not for your ex and not for you, but for your children.

As a parent, nearly everything you do is for your kids, of course. Of all the things you do for them, working to strengthen your co-parenting relationship is likely to be one of the most important. Here are some tips to help you successfully navigate co-parenting with your ex.

Nail down schedules ASAP. You likely have your custody agreement, or the schedule to which you and your former spouse adhere. But have you discussed holidays yet?

Vacations? It’s so much better to discuss these things in advance than to wait until they creep up and can cause an argument.

Never speak poorly of each other.

One of the most damaging things you can do as a divorced parent is speak badly of your former spouse to your child. It not only puts the child in a bad situation where they feel forced to choose, but it could affect their relationship with that parent or even with you.

Believe me, there have been times my kids caught a look or a sigh, or maybe worse. I’m far from perfect. But I try to speak positively of my ex to my children and encourage their relationship with their dad whenever I can.

It’s helpful to remember that there is nothing beneficial to be gained from negativity.

Discuss each child’s needs sooner than later.

It’s easy to assume that the “weekday parent” will take the kids to all of their appointments, but it’s not necessarily fair. My ex and I try to switch off with appointments so it’s divided more evenly. If you can, speak to your former spouse while the year is still young about

30 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

all doctor’s appointments, extracurricular activities, afterschool jobs, etc. You won’t be able to iron out the whole year, but at least you can get into a rhythm that will keep the flow of responsibilities in check.

Always put the kids first.

This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s possible to slip up and forget, in the heat of the moment, when tensions are running high, that the children are the very reason you still are in contact with an ex at all. Sometimes, the best thing you do is stop and think of what is best for your children. It’s also important to ensure any new partners understand this as well. If your new partner is more concerned about themselves than what’s best for your kids, it might be time to reconsider if this is the right person for you.

Make a plan for new partners.

Speaking of new partners, the time to agree on how they will be handled was yesterday. If you don’t yet have a plan in place, make one now. The effects of prematurely introducing a child to a new adult can be catastrophic for a child’s mental health. Ideally, any new partners should meet the former spouse before the child does and concerns should be addressed both promptly and privately.

Don’t leave the other parent in the dark.

One thing my ex sometimes does that drives

me batty is not answer when I text. I’m rarely (if ever) reaching out for anything other than reasons related to our children, so every text should be met with some degree of respectful speed. Obviously, there will be times when you can’t reply immediately, but if you have muted your ex’s messages out of spite, the one who is hurt in the long run is the child.

Communicate, communicate, communicate.

Ask any parenting expert and they will firmly tell you communication is the key to any healthy relationship, even one between former spouses. It’s more important than ever that you share all information concerning your child with your co-parent. Everything from changes in the daily schedule to health or behavior concerns should be discussed as soon as possible.

Keep your emotions in check.

This might be easier said than done, and I’m as guilty as the next person of unleashing my emotions on my ex at times. It’s important to remember that you are no longer married and your personal feelings are likely irrelevant to your former partner. They might frustrate you more now than they even did in marriage, but there is no need for tearful phone calls or angry texts. Do yourself a favor and keep the peace. Save the venting for your bestie, and be sure to do it when the kids aren’t around.

Check us out Online!

We’re the #1 print & digital lifestyle platform for engaged parents in New York.

Visit newyorkfamily.com for daily stories and to sign up for our weekly newsletters!

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

31

HEALTH

Where to Find the Best Pediatric Emergency Care

BY DANIELE RAMOS

N

o one ever wants to have to take their kids to the emergency room, but as a mom, it’s usually an inevitable visit, sooner or later. As a mom of three, I’ve been to many emergency rooms over the years with each of my kids, and they are definitely not all created equal. The best time to map out the top ERs in your area is well before you ever need one.

We compiled a list of some excellent emergency departments in the city that offer various levels of care. No matter what you go for, whether a chronic condition, sudden illness, or a trauma, you want the most capable, experienced minds and hands, and then you want as pleasant an experience as possible for your child (and for you!).

Check out our list: NYU Langone Health KiDS Emergency Department/Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital

Kips Bay

570 First Ave., New York, NY 10016 212-263-5550 Located within Tisch Hospital, the Pediatric Emergency Department is part of Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone. It is a dedicated kids-only ER with 24/7 pediatricspecific emergency care, staffed by pediatrictrained emergency doctors and nurses.

Before you go, you can view waiting times, which are posted on the website and updated every 5 minutes. Kids get a quick initial screening by a pediatric emergency specialist as soon as they arrive, and then are moved into a treatment room right away.

There is a family-friendly waiting area that is deliberately kid-friendly, with toys, games, books, and child-life specialists to help ease stress. The whole medical team is child-centered and goes out of their way to help put kids at ease.

Because Hassenfeld is part of a larger children’s hospital with many pediatric specialties, if your child needs follow-up or specialized care after the ER visit, they’re well-equipped to provide it. There is access

32 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

to more than 35 NYU pediatric specialties if your child needs extra care.

Great for Manhattan families (or those from the five boroughs willing to travel) who want a caring, kid-focused ER experience with the top medical minds, or for kids who might be particularly sensitive/anxious about hospitals.

Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital Washington Heights

3959 Broadway (at 165th St.), New York, NY 10032; (212) 305-6628 Located within NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, the Cohen Children’s Emergency Department is a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center and, so they can treat the most serious and complex emergencies, trauma cases, and pretty much any pediatric medical need. Your child will have access to top pediatric specialists in just about every area. This can be a godsend if the emergency turns into a longer hospital stay or if your child needs specialized care.

It is staffed around the clock by board-certified pediatric emergency physicians, trauma specialists, and nurses trained specifically to care for infants, children, and teens. There are 29 private treatment rooms with TV, videos, and games to keep kids comfortable, and two hightech emergency suites for the most urgent cases.

Plus, there is a Kids Express “Fast Track” area to speed up care for less urgent issues during busy hours, and self-registration kiosks for non-urgent visits that take as little as 90 seconds. The waiting room is a calming space for kids with reading nooks, internet access, game tables, and a multimedia wall with bright natural light, vibrant colors, and floorto-ceiling storybook illustrations throughout.

Great for NYC families seeking a toplevel pediatric trauma center with extensive

resources, rapid access to specialists for serious traumas, complex illnesses, or anything beyond a typical ER visit. Yet the rapid triage also makes it ideal for minor illnesses, too.

Komansky Children’s Hospital Upper East Side

525 East 68th St., New York, NY 10065 212-746-3300 This is a Level 1 Trauma Center and a regional burn center located within NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. The center can treat everything from minor injuries to the most serious emergencies. Their 24/7 pediatric-only ER is staffed entirely by doctors and nurses trained specifically to care for infants, children, teens, and young adults.

Families have direct access to a full range of pediatric specialists at Weill Cornell if your child needs extra care or admission to he hospital.

When you go, kids are assessed right away, and staff focus on fast pain relief and comfort, while using child-friendly tools, toys, and techniques to make the experience less scary.

Charging stations are plentiful, and free Wi-Fi to keep devices going during long waits, which is a lifesaver ( not all ERs have this!)

Virtual Urgent Care is available for minor illnesses and injuries if you want to avoid an inperson trip (and who doesn’t, especially when flu and viruses are running rampant) Great for NYC children who need a highlevel pediatric trauma and burn center. The fast triage and virtual urgent care capability also make it great for treating minor illnesses on off-hours when you can’t see your pediatrician.

NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue Kips Bay

462 First Ave., New York, NY 10016

212-562-5555 This ER was recently recognized as a “Pediatric Innovator” and earned the highest rating in the Always Ready for Children program, scoring nearly perfectly for the way they care for kids in emergencies. It’s a Level II Pediatric Trauma Center (the only one south of 68th Street in Manhattan), fully equipped to handle serious injuries for children across a large part of the city. The department treats all ill and injured children and young adults under 25, including those who need acute resuscitation for conditions like dehydration, sepsis, meningitis, trauma, or toxic exposure.

The emergency department is designed specifically for children, with treatment rooms, special asthma and respiratory care areas, trauma bays, staffed by pediatrictrained emergency physicians and nurses.

There are multiple exam rooms, isolation spaces, a trauma room, an acute care area, and a big family-friendly waiting area.

The department also supports children and teens with urgent mental health needs through a state-certified Child and Adolescent Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program, which includes an evaluation unit, a 6-bed Extended Observation Unit, an interim crisis clinic, and access to mobile crisis services.

Great for families in Manhattan (especially lower/central Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn) who want a public hospital with trauma-capable and psychiatric pediatric care.

Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital Upper East Side

1184 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10029 (212) 241-9500 The pediatric emergency department was recently redesigned to add more space and increase the number of beds. There is little to no wait time, as kids are brought directly to treatment rooms after check-in. A new resuscitation area for critically ill children ensures that the sickest patients get rapid, optimized care.

The whole department is designed with children in mind, and colorful lighting and interactive elements make visits less intimidating, and there’s even a low-stimulation room for kids with autism or sensory sensitivities.

Being part of a large health system at NewYorkPresbyterian means that if your child needs admission or specialized follow-up, pediatric specialists and intensive care units are readily available.

Great for Upper East Side families seeking a newer, thoughtfully designed pediatric ER

that balances quality medical care with a less stressful, more comforting environment for children.

Maimonides Children’s Hospital Pediatric Emergency Department Borough Park, Brooklyn

4802 10th Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11219 (718) 283-7500 This is Brooklyn’s only dedicated children’s ER and Level 2 pediatric trauma center, so for families in Brooklyn or nearby boroughs, it offers convenient access without needing to travel to Manhattan. Certified and equipped to treat life-threatening injuries from serious incidents (falls, car accidents, etc.)

The recently expanded emergency department has 32 treatment areas, advanced imaging (X-ray, CT, ultrasound), trauma rooms, and dedicated pediatric resources, including the largest PICU and NICU in Brooklyn. There are dedicated pediatric trauma rooms and orthopedic procedure areas. There is also an accredited pediatric cardiology program (IAC–certified in fetal and pediatric echocardiography).

The emergency department is staffed by specialists trained to care for children, who respond differently to injuries than adults.

If your child has to have a hospital stay, the full-service pediatric hospital offers a complete range of inpatient services.

Maimonides offers a full range of pediatric inpatient services (NICU/PICU, oncology, cardiology, etc.), which helps keep care coordinated.

The Pediatric Hospitalist Program provides individualized care coordination throughout a child’s hospital stay. Child Life Services offers play, art, and music therapy to support emotional well-being and ease the stress of hospitalization Great for families in Brooklyn or beyond who want a full-featured, child-specific hospital with access to top specialists.

NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital Park Slope, Brooklyn

506 6th St., Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718) 780-5025 Right in the heart of Park Slope, one of the most family-dense neighborhoods in the city, this hospital is a lifesaver for local parents who want fast, reliable pediatric care without crossing a bridge. Their pediatric emergency team handles everything from fevers and injuries to more complicated concerns.

Specialized pediatric emergency and criti-

cal care services are tailored for infants and children, and staffed by dual board-certified emergency and pediatric physicians and nurses. They have a dedicated pediatric area within NYP Brooklyn Methodist’s ER, designed for a calmer experience for families.

The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for critically ill children treats conditions like respiratory failure, severe illness, and postoperative recovery. A Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) includes a 24-bed Level III NICU for newborns needing intensive medical care, equipped to care for extremely premature babies and infants recovering from surgery.

Plus, there is a transitional Care Nursery that helps babies who need extra support before heading home.

Great for Brooklyn families (especially those in Park Slope, Gowanus, Windsor Terrace, or nearby neighborhoods) who want a dependable, kid-savvy emergency department close to home for quick access, top specialists, and a calmer setting than the big Manhattan ERs. Cohen Children’s Medical Center New Hyde Park

269-01 76th Ave., New Hyde Park, NY, 11040 (718) 470-7640 At less than 30 minutes from Queens, Cohen Children’s Pediatric Emergency Medicine is the only freestanding pediatric emergency department on Long Island and the largest Level I pediatric trauma center in New York. It offers dedicated, round-the-clock emergency care exclusively for infants, children, and adolescents. The best part is that it is a pediatric-only facility and staffed 24/7 by board-certified pediatric emergency physicians and specialized pediatric nurses.

The department takes care of a host of urgent needs, from routine childhood sicknesses and injuries to serious surgical and trauma cases. There is also a Pediatric Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center to support kids and teens who are having a mental-health crisis right alongside medical emergencies.

Since Cohen Children’s is part of a major pediatric teaching hospital within Northwell Health, the whole place is built with kids in mind, staffed by people who are specially trained to care for young patients and all the unique needs they have.

Great for local Queens’ families who want fast, specialized emergency care close to home, especially when their kids need a pediatriconly team that can handle everything from minor injuries to serious trauma or behavioral-health emergencies.

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

33

Trending

Parenting Styles Parents and experts weigh in on what parenting styles work best for them

BY NÁOSHA GREGG AND NYF

W

e all know there’s no perfect parenting guide. Raising a small human is no easy feat, and there will be many questions along the way. While there are several tips and tricks when it comes to parenting, from picking the nursery color to choosing the right school, one thing remains a bit of a puzzle: parenting styles.

What Are Parenting Styles?

Parenting styles first emerged in the 1960s, when psychologist Diana Baumrind identified three main parenting styles: authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive. The idea was to look at the different ways parents raise their kids, helping researchers understand how these styles affect things like discipline, warmth, communication, and expectations. The goal was to figure out which parenting strategies lead to the best outcomes for children.

“Balancing elements such as control, warmth, autonomy, and communication role

models and illustrates what parenting can look like from several different lenses, allowing for adaptation when needed,” says Courtney Hulse, a NY-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. “Understanding the benefits of various parenting styles can help parents choose the best approach for their child’s individual temperament, needs, and developmental stage.”

The conversation around parenting styles recently resurfaced on TikTok when Lighthouse Parenting began trending. This approach highlights being a stable guide — like a lighthouse — while giving kids space to grow. Many parents shared positive experiences, inspiring a wave of new ideas and practices. Below, we explore three currently trending styles: lighthouse, horizontal, and intensive.

Lighthouse Parenting Vanessa Gordon, CEO & Publisher of East End Taste, identifies strongly with lighthouse parenting. This style provides a more open

Other parenting styles you may hear about While lighthouse, horizontal, and intensive parenting are getting a lot of attention, there are several other styles influencing families today: Gentle Parenting: A hugely popular approach that many parents see on social or hear from their mom friends is gentle parenting. Gentle Parenting focuses on emotional regulation, connection, and modeling calm behavior. It’s often misunderstood as permissive, but it’s really about firm boundaries delivered with empathy.

Conscious Parenting: Developed

34 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

by psychologist Dr. Shefali, conscious parenting encourages parents to examine their own emotional patterns (yup, not super easy) so they don’t project stress or expectations onto their kids. It prioritizes selfawareness and intentional responses over discipline. This way of parenting has a learning curve since it involves check-ins on your end, but it feels like a win-win for all if it’s one you are comfortable trying.

Free-Range (or Independence) Parenting: This modern approach encourages autonomy, independent

approach, allowing children to explore freely while the parent acts as a steady anchor they can return to for guidance.

Gordon has seen meaningful growth in her children’s independence, confidence, and communication skills.

“In conversations with others, I have noticed that they are not afraid to ask questions, make rebuttals, or express their own thoughts and opinions,” she explains.

“I see my daughter picking up a book independently… My son does jiu-jitsu, and I admire that he goes early to help the younger students.”

Although the vibe is more relaxed, Gordon still implements rules — minimal screens, no cell phone access, and intentional limits on technology.

According to a survey conducted by Little Sleepies, over 70 percent of mothers compare themselves to other moms on social media, and 18 percent say social platforms negatively influence their parenting style.

“To avoid that pressure, I stay off TikTok

play, and age-appropriate freedom.

It’s a counterbalance to today’s structured, high-pressure childhoods and helps build resilience and confidence.

Slow Parenting: A response to overscheduling and burnout, slow parenting focuses on simplifying routines, reducing pressure, and giving kids time to explore, play, and develop at a natural pace.

Montessori-Inspired Parenting: Rooted in the Montessori classroom philosophy, parents bring these principles home through child-led learning, practical life skills, simple spaces, and lots of independence. It’s extremely popular on social media.

as “lazy,” but parents who practice it say it’s simply a low-energy, low-pressure way to bond with kids — especially during overwhelming seasons of life.

A 2017 Good to Know survey of 900 women found that 78 percent felt guilt around their parenting. With so many conflicting demands, horizontal parenting can feel like a relief.

Alexia McKay, a mom of two under two, sees it this way.

“I wasn’t necessarily seeking a parenting style,” she says. “It’s just what works for our current day-to-day.”

Her older daughter plays independently while she tends to her one-year-old — and that independence has benefits. Research from the National Institutes of Health shows that curiosity-driven independence strengthens attention, exploration, and memory.

McKay also emphasizes that today’s parents are navigating an entirely different world than previous generations. “We take what works for our family,” she says. “What worked for our parents doesn’t always fit today’s reality.”

Intensive Parenting A 2018 Cornell survey found that about 75 percent of parents rated intensive parenting scenarios as “very good” or “excellent.”

Intensive parenting prioritizes children’s development above all else — often resulting in highly hands-on involvement in academics, activities, and social settings.

But experts, including Hulse, caution that it can be harmful.

“Intensive parenting may promote increased pressure on a child,” she says.

“Children may feel overburdened, stressed, or develop anxiety, perfectionism, or burnout.

The pressure to succeed in every area can create emotional and mental strain.”

and limit my own social media use,” she says. “I shut off the noise and focus on my children’s unique needs, values, and family goals while trusting my instincts.”

She credits her grandfather’s no-nonsense approach for shaping how she parents today.

Though she offers freedom, she also teaches responsibility and consequences.

“I remind my children of their routine when they come home… If they need help, they must ask, but first try the problem on their own. I’m not here to rescue them.”

Horizontal Parenting Perhaps the most controversial style, horizontal parenting focuses on the wellbeing of the parent while still supporting the child’s need for engagement and connection.

Rich Kingly, CEO of Driveway King, blends lighthouse and horizontal parenting.

“My own upbringing was a mix of strict rules and a lot of love, but I wanted a balance where my kids felt empowered to speak up and learn from mistakes,” he explains.

Horizontal parenting is often dismissed

Decide the Style That Works Best for You Determining a parenting style can influence everything from self-esteem to emotional regulation to how children build healthy relationships.

“Our experiences, past and present, dictate how we relate to ourselves and the world,” Hulse explains. “A child’s perceived relationship with their parent affects both immediate and future outcomes.”

But as McKay reminds us, there is no onesize-fits-all solution: “What works for one household may not work for yours. There’s no right or wrong way to parent. Do what works best for your family and create your own tradition.”

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

35

calendar

BY SHARA LEVINE

BROOKLYN

World Read Aloud Day WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 4, 11 am – 4:30 pm WHERE: Greenlight Book Store, 686 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: 3 – 12 WHAT: Join readers across the globe for World Read Aloud Day! Greenlight will take part by inviting children’s book writers from the community to read from their work throughout the day.

WANT TO GO?: Free.

(718) 246–0200, greenlightbookstore.com

Empire Skate of Mind WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 5 pm, Wednesdays – Fridays, 2 – 5 pm through April 12 WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3 and up WHAT: Roll to the sounds of disco at this roller rink inspired

by Brooklyn’s legendary Empire Roller Rink.

WANT TO GO?: $15 admission; $10 skate rental; $8 bring your own skates. (718) 735–4400, brooklynkids.org

BAMkids Film Festival 2026 WHEN: Feb. 7 – 8, Saturday and Sunday, see website for schedule WHERE: BAM Rose Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Brooklyn’s favorite kids film program is back for its 28th year with a dazzling mix of animated, live-action, and documentary shorts.

WANT TO GO?: $14; $10 child. bam.org

Aladdin & the Wonderful Lamp WHEN: Saturdays, 12:30 pm,

Empire Skate of Mind at Brooklyn Children’s Museum Saturdays, 2:30 pm through April 5 WHERE: Puppetworks Inc, 338 Sixth Ave., Park Slope AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Go on a magic carpet ride with Aladdin in this marionette adaptation of this beloved tale.

WANT TO GO?: $12; $11 child. puppetworks.org

Drop-In Workshops: Life at Sea WHEN: Feb. 14 – 28, see website for schedule WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Take a deep dive into Oliver Jeffers:​Life at Sea and help expand this underwater world when you design new ocean life, from coral to 3D fish, to add to the exhibit.

WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $14 – $20; free for

36 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

ages 19 and younger. (718) 638–5000, brooklynmuseum. org

Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 15, 3 pm WHERE: Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Be there when the players dazzle, dunk, and hype the stands as they take on the Washington Generals with high-flying, all-out fun from start to finish.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $47. harlemglobetrotters.com

February Break Discovery Days: Conservatory Quest WHEN: Feb. 16 – 18, Monday and Wednesday, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., Prospect Heights

AGES: All WHAT: Travel from the desert to the rainforest (and beyond) in the blink of an eye! Use all five of your senses to investigate plants from these habitats.

WANT TO GO?: Included with pay-what-you-wish garden admission. bbg.org

Purim Discovery Room WHEN: Feb. 19–March 4, Mondays – Thursdays, 10 am – 5 pm, Sundays, 10 am – 5:30 pm WHERE: Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Pkwy., Crown Heights AGES: 4 – 10 WHAT: Step into a festive Purim world where children are invited to dress up in costume, decorate their own Purim masks, and explore hands-on sensory stations.

WANT TO GO?: $19 child; $17 adult. (718) 907–8833, jcm. museum

FEBRUARY Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey® The Greatest Show On Earth WHEN: Feb. 19 – 22, see website for schedule WHERE: Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: The Greatest Show On Earth® is back with a high-energy, bold circus performances, unforgettable characters, and a nonstop party vibe.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $35. ringling.com

Lunar New Year 2026 Celebration WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: Begins at Albee Square W & Fulton St., Downtown Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Ring in the Year of the Horse with Lion Dances and DJ Boogie!

WANT TO GO?: Free. downtownbrooklyn.com

MANHATTAN Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical WHEN: Feb. 14 – 22, see website for schedule WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3 – 6 WHAT: Perfect for first-time theatergoers, this stage adaption of every kid’s favorite alphabet book features singing, dancing, and lots of interactive moments.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start

calendar

at $25. (646) 223–3010, newvictory.org

Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation’s 11th Annual Harlem Gymnastics Invitational WHEN: Feb. 20 – 22, Daily, 9 am – 6 pm WHERE: Harlem Armory, 40 W 143rd St., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Witness gymnasts of various levels competing in Rhythmic Gymnastics, Trampoline & Tumbling and Girls’ Artistic Gymnastics, creating a live spectacle of sport.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (212) 316–0315, harlemgymnasticsinvitational.org

The Magic School Bus: Lost In The Solar System WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 am & 2 pm WHERE: BMCC Tribeca PAC, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 4 and older WHAT: Hop on the Magic School Bus for a ride in this new musical adaptation based on the original book series.

WANT TO GO?: $40. (212) 220–1459, tribecapac.org

BRONX Bronx Charter School Fair & Kids Activity Expo WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 28, 1 – 4 pm WHERE: Gauchos Gym, 478 Gerard Ave., Mott Haven AGES: All WHAT: Meet charter school reps and learn about afterschool programs, and

Purim Discovery Room at the Jewish Children’s Museum family resources while kids enjoy games, activities, and giveaways.

WANT TO GO?: Free

The Orchid Show: Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle WHEN: Feb. 7– April 26, Tues­ days – Sundays, 10 am – 6 pm WHERE: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park AGES: All WHAT: Known for blending floristry with pop art, street culture, and fine art, Mr. Flower Fantastic transforms NYBG into a breathtaking orchid tribute to the spirit, style, and skyline of NYC. WANT TO GO?: $12– $25. (718) 817–8700, nybg.org

Lunar New Year of Horse WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 8, 3 pm WHERE: Hostos Center for the Arts and Culture, 450 Grand Concourse, Mott Haven AGES: All WHAT: Gallop into 2026 with a spectacular family celebration featuring graceful Chinese dances, world premieres, and vibrant live music.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $19. (718) 518–4455, hostos. cuny.edu

QUEENS Pirate Pete’s Parrot

Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey® The Greatest Show On Earth

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 7, 3 – 4:15 pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre,

1010 44th Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Follow Pirate Pete in this interactive production as he searches for his beloved runaway parrot Polly, to find his buried treasure, and to pay the rent to Baron Big-Butt.

WANT TO GO?: $15 – $25.

(718) 433–9030, secrettheatre. com

Queens Family Ultimate Camp Fair & Activity Expo WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 7, noon – 3 pm WHERE: Renew Queens LIC, 10-15 46th Road, Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Queens Families can explore a variety of Summer Camps and Programs for 2026 and participate in fun activities for all ages.

WANT TO GO?: Free. newyorkfamily.com

Meet our Animals: Silky Soft Jacobs Ewes WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 28, 10 – 11 am WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Meet the charming Jacobs Sheep, known for their soft fleece and distinctive appearance! Get up close with these gentle ewes and learn what makes their wool so special.

WANT TO GO?: $12. queensfarm.org

February 2026 | Brooklyn Family

37

FAMILY DAY OUT

Bumper Cars on Ice! Check out this fun Bryant Park experience before it’s gone

BY DANIELLE RAMOS

G

rowing up a city kid in Brooklyn, one of my favorite summer memories was the bumper cars on Coney Island. Now, kids and adults, too, can make a possibly more fun memory right in the middle of Midtown. If you haven’t been able to yet, the bumper cars on ice at Bank of America Winter Village in Bryant Park are still happening until the end of this month.

Who Should Try Bumper Cars on Ice Just like summertime bumper cars, kids can do the same fun things they may have done on summer bumper cars rides, like race their friends and bump into each other, only on ice instead. The ride is available for kids and adults ages 7 and up, and anyone can sign up.

You don’t need to have ridden a bumper car before, and first timers are welcome. However, for younger kids, it’s best for a parent to be in their own bumper car close by.

38 NewYorkFamily.com | February 2026

Things to Know Before You Go Reservations are recommended: Tickets are now on sale, and since bumper cars are only available for a limited time, it’s a good idea to book as soon as you can. The bumper cars are available in 45-minute booking windows, and rides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis within that window.

Price: Standard price tickets are $26 plus tax, and some tickets are available for $22 during non-peak times and days. New tickets will be released.

Be on time. Since time slots are limited and timed, make sure to arrive on time. To guarantee your ride, be sure to show up at the time you selected when purchasing your ticket.

Age & size requirements: Children must be at least 7 years old as well as at least 42 inches tall. Also note that flat, closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons.

Rules: Though you may want to ride in the same bumper car with your child,

only one person per car is allowed. Also, no belongings are allowed on laps for safety reasons, so phones and cameras need to be put away during the ride.

And just a heads-up: If you’re pregnant, you won’t be allowed on for safety reasons, so you’ll have to skip this one if you’re expecting. If you have a young child, bring Dad or an older sibling to help out on the ice.

More Fun on the Ice While you’re at Bryant Park for the bumper cars, you can also take part in all the other winter fun at Bank of America Winter Village.

The park is one of New York City’s most popular ice skating rinks, where admission is free (though you’ll need to reserve tickets online). Skate rentals are available for a small fee. If you’re not into skating, you can still enjoy browsing the village or cozying up in one of the igloos. The Winter Village is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm, with extended hours until midnight on select weekends and holidays. So, after you’ve had your fill of bumper car fun, lace up your skates and make a full day of it.

You can ride the bumper cars at The Rink at Bryant Park until February 28. Tickets available at the Bryant Park website.

CALLING ALL

campers

SUNDAY MARCH 8TH, 2026

Congregation Beth Elohim

274 Garfield Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11215 12:00PM - 3:00PM Get ready for summer fun at Brooklyn Family's Ultimate Camp Fair & Activity Expo.

Discover Summer Camps and programs for your kids, meet camp representatives, explore exciting options, and plan a summer full of adventure.

• Kids Enjoy Games & Raffles • Video Game Tournament • Free Treats • Face Painting • Prizes • Arts & Crafts • Music & more

Hosted by

Get Your FREE Tickets Today

www.Newyorkfamily.com/BrooklynCampFair2

Find more information: visit us at www.sacsny.org or call 718.875.1403