Lessons I’ve learned about growth while raising a neurodivergent child
26 | Trending
Parents and experts weigh in on what parenting styles work best for them
STORIES & COLUMNS
6 | Editor’s Letter
8 | Ask the Expert
What parents need to know about teen relationships
12 | Mom Stories
How to nail co-parenting with your ex
20 | Camp
Do siblings need to go to camp together?
22 | Camp
Amazing day camps
24 | Family Day Out
Boredom-busting indoor activities for kids when winter has you indoors
30 | Family Day Out
Bumper cars on ice at Bryant Park
FAMILY FUN
28 | Calendar
The best family-friendly events happening this month
DIRECTORIES
17 | Independent and charter school listings
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 Amazing Day Camps (page 22) and Do Siblings Need to Camp Together? (page 20), a must-read for parents weighing what works best for their kids.
February also brings us Valentine’s Day,
GET IN TOUCH
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 12).
And because navigating schools is a major parenting decision, you’ll also find smart, practical guides to understanding charter (page 14), and independent schools (page 16), 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
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Teens and Relationships
How parents can help navigate
BY KAITLYN RIGGIO
Let’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
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
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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
Other Things to Keep in Mind
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.
How to Nail Co-Parenting with Your Ex
BY JEANNINE CINTRON
Istarted 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
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.
A Closer Look at Charter Schools
BY HANNAH MALLARD
Charter 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
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
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Exploring Independent Schools
BY NEW YORK FAMILY
In New York, choosing a school can start pretty early. It may all begin casually, a comment on the playground. A question after music class. Then suddenly, it’s everywhere. It may first start with preschool chatter, then, as you figure out what works or could work for your child, it turns into coffee conversations, which turn into late-night group texts once the kids are asleep. One day, you’re swapping potty-training tips, and the next, it’s what the heck is a school lottery, how does a waitlist work , and the big one, to do public or private.
This is often when independent schools enter the group chat. Especially here in New York, where there’s an unusually deep and diverse landscape of independent schools, many parents start looking not only because they want “more,” but because they want something that feels more unflappable for their family, more intentional, and aligned with how their family actually lives.
What Is an Independent School?
Independent schools are sometimes nonprofit, privately run schools that operate outside the public system. Since these types of schools aren’t governed by districts or state mandates, they are free to shape both their curriculum and school culture, which is understandably why they appeal to so many parents.
For like most educational decisions, choosing an independent school is rarely about one thing. It might be class size or location. The school may offer them a more rigid schedule, lighter or more sportsoriented schoolwork, and something you cannot find anywhere else.
And it’s not that one type of education, public versus independent, is better than the other; for many of us parents, it is a wellthought-out decision to pivot to independent schools. This could be during your child’s key transitions, early childhood, middle school, or simply it’s time for your child to move on
to an independent school. For other students, these type of schools provide a flexible environment.
Another plus is the sense of community that independent schools like Catholic, Montessori, and others foster in their students. Independent schools may center on creativity, social-emotional learning, or a more progressive education, or academic rigor balanced with play. Families can choose a school that
reflects their values and supports their child’s personality, not just their test scores. And while tuition is a consideration, many parents may be surprised to learn how widely financial aid is available.
In a city and state defined by options, independent schools offer parents a choice; they’re less about opting out, and more about opting into a school experience that feels aligned, supportive, and real.
Bridge Prep Charter
715 Ocean Terrace 718-274-3437
bridgeprepcharter.org
Bridge Prep Charter School is a diverse community of learners serving elementary school students from Staten Island and Brooklyn. As New York’s leader in Science of Reading based educational programming, Bridge Prep is committed to developing the whole child by offering a responsive, rigorous academic program with a proven track record of success in improving outcomes, and supporting critical language-based development that fosters sustained academic success for students as they prepare for secondary school.
Hellenic Classical Charter Schools (HCCS)
1641 Richmond 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 college ready curriculum, preparing students for long term academic success. 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.
Programs include coed college prep school for pre-K 3 to grade12. Free extended day 7am- 7pm. Full-day 3 or 5-days-a week program offered for pre-K 3 students. Summer programs. College guidance program. Academic Resource Center staffed with Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Need-based financial aid available beginning in kindergarten.
Supplementing Instruction with Classical, Cultural and Language Studies
Pre-K Open House Thursday, February 5 at 9:00
Grades K-8 Open House Tuesday, February 3 at 5:30 Tuesday, March 3 at 5:30
hccs-nys.org| 718-499-0957
Hellenic Classical CharterSchools StatenIsland
When a Meatball is the Milestone
Lessons I’ve learned about growth while raising a neurodivergent child
BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD
Milestones 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
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.
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Do Siblings Need to Go to Camp Together?
BY JESS MICHAELS
When 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
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.”
Amazing Day CAMPS
When the school year wraps up, parents everywhere face the same summer puzzle: how to give kids a break without letting the days dissolve into endless screen time and snack negotiations. Enter day camp: the magical middle ground where long days turn into muddy sneakers, art projects, inside jokes, and stories.
Day camp is where kids get to move, make, explore, and try things they wouldn’t otherwise. It’s where friendships deepen, confidence sneaks up on them, and days feel full in the best possible way.
For parents, it’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is engaged, cared for, and actually thriving, And right in your neighborhood or near, the options are as dynamic as the city itself. There truly is something for every kid whether it is an indoor or outdoor day camp- these programs keep curiosity sharp, all while paving the way for an unforgettable summer.
JCC Day Camp
Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds, 1131 Manor Rd., Staten Island 718-475-5231 (through June 28), 718-983-9000 (July & August) GWechsler@SIJCC.com sijccdaycamp.org
Staten Island JCC Day Camp is a place for fun, friendship, and values that last a lifetime! JCC Day Camp has over 30 activities, including an inflatable game center, a climbing wall, swimming, sports, archery, arts & crafts, trips, and weekly shows. Set on the scenic Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds, kids enjoy nature, make lifelong friends, and grow through values like respect and perseverance. With a low staff-to-camper ratio and expert, caring counselors, each child gets the attention they deserve in a safe, fun, and inspiring environment. The JCC also offers Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs and inclusion opportunities. Daily lunch is now included for campers. Transportation and extended hours are available. Sibling discounts and scholarships are also available.
Fun Station Day Camp
3555 Victory Blvd., Staten Island 718-569-5426, funstationdaycamp@yahoo.com funstationdaycamp.com
Started in 2012 with just 25 children, FSDC is the Fastest Growing Camp in Staten Island, with over 300 children this past year alone. Family owned & operated, the camp emphasizes its exciting trip schedule to engage children ages 4-14 with exciting trips to: Nickelodeon Universe, Slime Museum, Six Flags, Keansburg Water Park, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, and so many more. In addition, FSDC offers door-to-door bus service, catered lunch by Francesco’s Restaurant, and extended hours (7 am to 6 pm) at no additional charge. The camp stresses a nurturing environment with caring counselors. There are 3-4 trips per week, a private pool & campers get exclusive use of Fun Station’s 40,000 sq. foot facility with 70 arcade games, laser tag, 6 rides, and 2 professional basketball courts.
Staten Island YMCA Summer Camp 3939 Richmond Ave., Staten Island 718-227-3200, broadwayycamp@ymcanyc.org ymcanyc.org/locations/broadway-ymca/programs-classes/ camps
Parents trust the Y’s caring, trained staff to give their kids a fun, enriching, and high-energy camp experience this summer — out of the house and off screens. YMCA programs include Traditional Day Camp for ages 6-12, where campers participate in traditional camp activities, including physical fitness, artistic, and educational activities. Early childhood camp is available for children ages 3-5. This program engages the youngest campers with hands-on sensory experiences that support each child’s need to explore the world around them. Specialty camps include swimming, and new camps for 2026 include soccer, art, and gaming. Registration is now open. Sign up today to find out why Awesome starts here this summer at the Y.
Richmond County Day Camp
6581 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY
718.761.1492
rcdaycamp.com
Doesn’t your child deserve a great summer? For over 30 years, Richmond County Day Camp offers families the most complete summer camp experience in the borough. From complimentary bus service and free extended care hours to a private air-conditioned facility and exciting trips, there is something for every camper. There’s a reason why we’re the Island’s number 1 summer camp program. Click the link below to learn more, have your questions answered by a Virtual Camp Director, and to register for an upcoming open house today.
UAU Summer Camp At CSI
2800 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY
uausummercamps.org
Ready for the Island’s newest summer camp experience? Learn more about UAU’s Summer Camp Program at the centrally located College of Staten Island. From air-conditioned facilities and sports to team building and science, UAU is proud to offer Staten Island Families a program that is not only comprehensive but affordable. Learn more and register for an upcoming open house today:uausummercamps.org/united-activities-unlimited-summercamp-at-csi-2026.
BoredomBusting Indoor Activities for Kids
when winter has you indoors
BY JEANNINE CINTRON
Don’t give in to the cabin fever; family fun doesn’t have to stop just because it’s cold outside. There are many indoor activities for families to enjoy in Staten Island this winter. Go bowling, catch a movie, play in an indoor playground and much more. Browse our list of indoor family activities on Staten Island, and be on your way to a great time!
Don’t forget to check out our online calendar of events that’s packed with familyfriendly things to do every single day.
Bowling In Staten Island
Rab’s Country Lanes
1600 Hylan Blvd.; 718-979-1600
Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 9am to 12am; Friday and Saturday, 9am – 2am Rab’s is a mainstay on Staten Island. Owned by the Wilkinson family, Rab’s has been in the borough for more than 26 years. Enjoy open bowling every day, cosmic bowling and more. Grab a bite to eat at the on-site kitchen and pizzeria to keep your energy going throughout the game.
Showplace Entertainment Center
141 East Service Rd.; 718-477-2695
Hours: Call for information. Strike up some family fun at this Staten Island bowling alley. Other indoor activities for families on-site include a pizzeria and snack bar, and an arcade.
Escape Rooms On Staten Island
Unreal Escapes
2571 Arthur Kill Rd.; 877-867-3255
Hours: Daily, 9am-11pm
An escape room experience is a great indoor family activity that brings everyone together to accomplish a goal! At this Staten Island escape room, groups have 60 minutes to scavenge and solve riddles and puzzles using clues in order to find their way out.
Movie Theaters on Staten Island
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Staten Island
2636 Hylan Blvd. Suit 230; 929-233-9660
Hours: Show times vary
Enjoy comfy reclining seats and a full food and drink menu at this lively movie theatre in Staten Island. Be sure to check out their line-up of movie parties and events, which are immersive, interactive experiences for
cinema fans featuring fun props, themed drinks, and more.
Atrium Stadium Cinemas
680 Arthur Kill Rd.; 718-984-3859
Hours: Show times vary.
See the latest movies at this popular movie spot.
AMC Dine-In Staten Island 11 2655 Richmond Ave.; 718-285-7529
Hours: Show times vary.
Enjoy heated signature recliners, dine-in delivery to seat, food and drink mobile ordering and more during your moviewatching experience.
Regal Bricktown Charleston
165 Bricktown Way
Hours: See movie times on the website. See the latest movies at this South Shore theater located in the Charleston shopping center.
Ice-Skating in Staten Island
Staten Island Skating Pavilion Ice Skating Rink
3080 Arthur Kill Road; 718-605-4800
Hours: Fridays, 7:30-10:30pm; Saturdays, 2:304:30pm and 7:30-9:30pm; Sundays, 2-4pm. Check here for special sessions during school breaks. Enjoy public skating and take lessons at this indoor rink located on Staten Island’s South Shore.
Experiences in Staten Island Recess
Empire Outlets, 2nd Level, 55 Richmond Terrace
Inside this one-of-a-kind “playground” you’ll find over 20 unique experiences for ages 5 and up. With glowing lights and moving art, plus endless immersive and hands-on fun, you’ll be amazed by the colors and wonder surrounding you.
Indoor Playgrounds
Always call ahead to confirm open play hours, as birthday parties and private events may affect these hours.
Hours: 10am-7pm daily. Call to confirm open play hours.
Kiddo X Wonderland
639 Veterans Rd W; 718-766-1755
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 10am – 5:30pm; Friday – Saturday; 10am – 8pm; Sunday 10am – 7pm. Open play hours are here.
Little Sharks Playground
27 Brienna Court; 718-612-5867
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Sweetie House Playground & Cafe
2343 Forest Ave.; 718-673-8118
Hours: Open daily 10am – 8pm. Call to confirm open play hours.
We Rock the Spectrum
3579 Victory Blvd.; 718-701-6897
Hours: Check social media (Instagram or Facebook) or call to confirm open play schedule.
Wild Child Play Space
638 Sharrotts Rd.; 929-614-6088
Hours: Check social media (Instagram or Facebook) or call for open play schedule.
Trending
Parenting Styles
Parents and experts weigh in on what parenting styles work best for them
BY NÁOSHA GREGG AND NYF
We 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
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.
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
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.”
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.”
calendar
Astronomy: The Snow Moon
Sunday, Feb. 1, 4:30 - 5:30 pm
Freshkills Park, 350 Wild Ave.
All ages
Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers and Freshkills Park educators to gaze at the night sky through a telescope and learn about February’s Full Moon which is referred to as the “Snow Moon”.
Groundhog Day at the Staten Island Zoo
Monday, Feb. 2, 7:30am - 9 am Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway
All ages
Free
Join the annual Groundhog Day Ceremony at the Staten Island Zoo, featuring Staten Island Chuck, the world-famous groundhog! Will Chuck predict an early Spring or six more weeks of winter?
Music with Patrick at Staten Island Academy
Sunday, Feb. 8, 10 - 11 am Staten Island Academy, 715 Todt Hill Rd.
Ages 2-8
Free
Staten Island Academy warmly invites families to Music with Patrick, a joyful morning of music, movement, and play created especially for young learners. Space is limited. Registration required. RSVP: rshaps@statenislandacademy.org
Valentines Day Love in Nature Hike
Saturday, Feb. 14, 11am Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Ave.
All ages
Free
THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY
Join the Urban Park Rangers in learning about the courtship habits of our local wildlife while taking a scenic stroll on the nature trails of Blue Heron Park.
Mad Science: Marvels of Motion
Saturday, Feb. 14, 4 - 5 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
Free
In this high energy event, children see Newton’s three laws of motion in action. Participants will conduct exciting experiments, compete in crazy competitions, and learn the physics behind some of their favorite sports.
Vibe & Thrive
Saturdays, Feb. 14 & 28
Build A Dream, 4 Minthorne St.
Ages 16-21
Free
This is a hands-on winter program for teens and young adults designed to build real independence while strengthening emotional confidence. Participants don’t just learn life skills, they practice them in real-life scenarios while developing SEL skills like communication, emotional regulation and problem-solving.
Discover the Rhythm of the World: S’Cool Sounds
Percussion Workshop
Monday, Feb. 16, 4 - 5 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
Ages 3-9
Free with admission
Join for a hands-on introduc-
tion to rhythmic traditions from around the world, focusing on handheld percussion. Attendees will learn to play different rhythms using key musical elements. Join the rhythm and discover the joy of making music.
Kids Week: Kindness Rocks!
Monday, Feb. 16, 11am - noon
Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Ave.
All ages
Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers in learning more about local geology while participating in the Kindness Rocks Project. This is a project that occurs nationwide where people gather to paint rocks with kind messages that will be left in different spots in parks. When you encounter one of these rocks, you can snap a picture, share it with the Kindness Project, and move it to another location to spread kindness. Bring your own rock!
Kids Week: Year of the Horse…Of Course
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 11am - noon
Ocean Breeze Pier, Seaview Ave. and Father Capodanno Blvd.
All ages
Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers and Parks Enforcement Patrol Mounted Unit as they celebrate Lunar New Year. It is the year of the horse. Learn about Lunar New Year and meet horses while taking a stroll around Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex.
Lunar New Year Storytime + Craft
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 3:30 - 4:30 pm
St. George Library Center, 5 Central
Groundhog Day at the Staten Island Zoo
Ave.
All ages
Free
Enjoy engaging stories that celebrate Lunar New Year traditions, animals of the zodiac, and themes of family and good fortune, followed by a fun craft inspired by the holiday.
BubbleMania: Science, Art & Comedy
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 3:30 - 5 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
Ages 2-4 (3:30 pm show) Ages 5+ (4:15 show)
Free with admission
This high-energy stage show combines his eye-popping skills with engaging, surprising & fun science – from mesmerizing fog-filled bubble sculpture and gobs of funky foam to cubeshaped bubbles and bubbles that trap a human inside. See how science can turn the ordinary soap bubble into something extraordinary.
Nature Walk and Quill Writing for Kids & Families
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 11 am - 1 pm Conference House Park, 298 Satterlee St.
All ages
Free
Join NYC Parks, the Urban Park Rangers, and the Friends of the Biddle House for a nature walk along the trails and beach, followed by a quill writing art activity! Bring your sneakers and imagination and enjoy this fun President’s Week/Winter Break activity.
Family Art Workshops: Collage, Drawing, and Mixed Media Painting
Wednesday, Feb. 18 - Friday, Feb. 20, 1 - 3 pm
Staten Island Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
$5
Join every afternoon for art and craft-based activities inspired by the museum’s collection. Wednesday will be Collage, Thursday will be Drawing, and
Friday will be Mixed media painting.
Learn to Draw The Nocturnals Characters with Illustrator Josie Yee
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 3 - 4 pm
St. George Library Center, 5 Central Ave.
All ages
Free
Illustrator Josie Yee will show kids how to draw the three stars of The Nocturnals: Dawn the super-smart fox, Tobin the sweet pangolin, and Bismark the chatty sugar glider. Kids will follow easy, step-by-step instructions and add their own creative flair as they bring these nighttime adventurers to life.
Children’s Dental Health
Art Workshop
Wednesday, Feb. 18 , 4 - 5 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
Free with admission
Join Marcia Greene, DDS as she teaches children about healthy dental habits and leads a creative
Saturday, Feb. 21, 2-3:30pm
Staten Island Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
$25 adults; $10 for children ages 5+; kids under 5 free
Join for a powerful afternoon of movement, memory, and legacy as SKIN Dance Company honors Black History Month through Afrocentric choreography, ancestral storytelling, and cosmic celebration. Featuring excerpts from Josephine’s Cotton: The Musical, this performance pays tribute to the spirit of Josephine Baker—artist, activist, and icon of liberation. Registration required.
COMIXCON 2026 and Movie Screening of Terminator Genisys
Sunday, Feb. 22, 1 - 6:30 pm
St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St.
All ages
$25
art project inspired by teeth.
Kids Week: Ranger Games
Thursday, Feb. 19, 11am - noon
Silver Lake Park, Forest. Ave. and Silver Lake Park Rd.
All ages
Free
Spend an afternoon of fun with the Urban Park Rangers playing and learning new and exciting nature games.
Feel the Sounds of the Islands with Caribbean Vibe!
Friday, February 20, 4 - 5 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
Free with admission
Caribbean Vibe Steel Drum Band’s performers provide fun festive music for all ages, sharing and elevating the joy of an instrument whose origin is rooted in the history of the Afro-Trinidadian struggle for freedom.
SKIN Dance Company
Celebrates Black History Month
This thrilling event is a celebration of comics, pop culture, and community, offering something for fans of all ages. Explore a variety of vendors selling comics, collectibles, and memorabilia, and showcase your creativity in a fan-favorite costume contest with exciting prizes and meet Patrick Hickey Jr. of Friday Night at Freddy’s! Come for the con and stay for a screening of the 2015 film Terminator Genisys, as part of the “Better on the Big Screen” Movie Series.
Metaverse Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 am - noon
Bloomingdale Park, Ramona and Lenevar Avenues
All ages
Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a nature scavenger hunt inspired by the popular mobile game application “Pokemon Go”. Meet the rodents, insects, birds, reptiles and other elements of nature that inspired the designs of these world renowned fictional creatures. See how many of these can be found where the metaverse meets the natural world.
Discover the Rhythm of the World: S’Cool Sounds Percussion Workshop at the Staten Island Children’s Museum
Bumper Cars on Ice!
Check out this fun Bryant Park experience before it’s gone
BY DANIELLE RAMOS
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.
Growing 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.
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,
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.
