Brooklyn Family - May 2026

MAY 2026

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

Childcare that Works for Your Whole Family A closer look at how Vivvi is helping families rethink early care

Stop Measuring Motherhood Already RAISING HIGHLY SENSITIVE KIDS (Without the Stress Spiral)

GUIDE TO SPECIALTY CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

CAMPS FILLING UP FAST!

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May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

3

CONTENTS

MAY 2026

NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 28

pg. 30

pg. 14

pg. 26

FEATURES

STORIES & COLUMNS

8 | Mom Stories Tips for setting boundaries as moms

6 | Editor’s Letter

12 | Cover Vivvi: A closer look at how Vivvi is helping families rethink early care 18 | Parenting Parenting strategies for highly sensitive children 26 | Parenting How to stop measuring your motherhood

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14 | Family Fun Best zoos in and near NYC for families 20 | Health Think you’re too young for menopause?

22 | Camp Specialty Camps and Summer Programs

FAMILY FUN 28 | Calendar The best family-friendly events happening this month 30 | American 250 Walking tour brings revolution to life

ON THE COVER Vivvi Childcare and Early Learning Photo: Yumi Matsuo | @YumiMatsuoStudio | yumimatsuostudio.com Hair & Makeup: Ammy Chan | @ammytyc | ammychan.com

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.

May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

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EDITOR’S NOTE

May in Motion, NY Style May always feels like a turning point. The days are now warmer (Yay!). We’re leaning more into summer planning, and some of us have big questions about how our kids are growing and what they need next.

This month, we’re looking closely at spaces and finding what works for our family.

At the center of our cover story is Vivvi (page 12), a closer look at how New York families are rethinking early care in one of the city’s most complex childcare landscapes.

We explore what it means to build flexibility, consistency, and trust into the earliest stages of a child’s learning journey.

If you have a highly sensitive child, turn to page 18 for supportive strategies to better understand them and practical tips

for handling the tougher moments. We also chatted with an expert about what many parents quietly carry: measuring motherhood against an impossible standard (page 26)?

Summer is SO near, and we share some fun specialty camps and summer programs (page 22).

For families staying close to the city, we also round up the best zoos near NYC (page 14) and, as always, our calendar of familyfriendly events happening this month. And in honor of American 250, we bring history into the present with a walking tour (page 30) that brings the Revolution to life for families today.

Happy May, and to all who celebrate, Happy Mother’s Day!

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 | May 2026

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New York Family is the recipient of 7 Parenting Media Awards for 2025, including Gold awards for both Design and Editorial for our 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

CREATORCAMP.ORG

May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

7

MOM STORIES

Tips for Setting Boundaries as Moms How to say no without guilt

BY SOE KABBABE

M

ost moms don’t struggle with boundaries because they don’t care enough. They struggle because they care too much. We’re taught, explicitly or subtly, that good mothers are endlessly available. That putting ourselves last is just part of the job— the sweetest yet hardest job, as I like to call it.

That saying yes equals love. But love shouldn’t mean losing yourself, right? Right.

Over time, those yeses pile up, and when they’re not aligned with what you actually have the capacity for, they turn into burnout. Setting boundaries as a mom means recognizing that your limits matter, even when they’re inconvenient.

The truth is, mothers aren’t just tired.

We are bone tired. The kind of tired that sleep

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doesn’t fix. Tired of making every decision, of anticipating everyone’s needs; of being the default: default parent, default planner, default problem-solver. And most of all, we’re tired of how invisible our own needs have become.

What Boundaries Really Are (and Aren’t) & the Power of Saying No Let’s clear something up.

Boundaries Are: A way to honor your needs A form of emotional honesty A model of self-respect for your kids A path to more sustainable motherhood Boundaries Are Not: Punishment Rejection Lack of love Failure as a mom Boundaries don’t make you cold. They make it clear. One of the hardest parts of

boundaries for moms is saying no—especially when you could technically say yes. But “I can” doesn’t always mean “I should.” This is where, if we were to put it in more psychological terms, we need to “reparent” ourselves to practice simple, loving no’s. You don’t need a long explanation. You don’t need to justify your exhaustion. Just be clear on your wants and needs, and be gentle to yourself and to others.

When you stop over-explaining, you teach everyone, and yourself, that your needs are valid.

The trick (albeit a tricky one if we’re not used to saying no) is to check in with yourself before you commit. Ask yourself, “Do I actually want to do this”? “Do I have the energy for this today”? “Will saying yes lead to resentment later”? Before you say yes, pause. This moment of mindfulness can change everything. It isn’t selfishness. It’s self-awareness.

Mindfulness for moms doesn’t have to mean meditation or silence. Sometimes it’s

Care and Learning Where you Are

Infant | Toddler | Preschool Vivvi provides exceptional child care and early education for ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Our inquiry-based curriculum is facilitated by warm, experienced teachers who foster the joy of learning. With rolling admissions, unparalleled teacher retention, full day schedules and leading health and safety, Vivvi meets families where they are.

Now Enrolling! Learn more and sign up for a tour at Vivvi.com

Unrivaled Flexibility Full-day, year-round schedules Monday-Friday 2, 3 and 5-day programs

Find your Vivvi May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

9

MOM STORIES

just noticing the tight feeling in your chest when you agree to something you don’t want.

Just as in dating or business, that feeling is information.

Setting Boundaries with Your Kids Many moms worry that boundaries will hurt their children. In reality, boundaries make kids feel safer. They show kids what’s okay and what’s not; how to respect others’ limits, and that adults have needs too. I made the mistake of prioritizing my kids’ wants and requests over mine on an everyday basis, and it’s precisely in those mundane chores where gentle boundaries matter the most!

A calm but firm “I can help you after I finish my coffee” or “I’m not available for play right now, but I will be later,” is a life lesson that both mothers and children need to learn. You’re not ignoring your child’s feelings—you’re holding space for them without abandoning yourself.

Boundaries for moms aren’t walls— they’re bridges. They connect you back to your needs, your body, and your sense of self.

In fact, limits make you a better mom! When

you protect your energy, you become more patient and less reactive, and when you feel grounded, your whole family benefits.

In a nutshell, it’s self-care that goes beyond bubble baths or quiet mornings.

For many moms, it starts with boundaries.

You can’t rest if you’re constantly on call.

You can’t recharge or, yeah, reassess your thoughts, feelings, and goals, if you’re always available.

The Guilt Will Show Up. Let It Pass Anyway Guilt often appears when you start setting boundaries. That doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you’re doing something new.

As moms, what helps is simply reminding yourself that boundaries are healthy (just as you tell your kids broccoli is a magical little tree that makes them grow). Fake it until you make it!

Don’t let that feeling of guilt take you down the burnout route once again.

Remember, your kids are watching how you treat yourself—they learn how to set boundaries by watching you set yours.

Small Steps to Start Setting Boundaries Today You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight, fellow mom. Start small. When you set boundaries, you’re choosing longterm well-being over short-term approval.

Make the promise to be true to yourself and your needs and say no to one thing you don’t want to do.

Today, try saying this out loud: “That doesn’t work for me.”

“I’m going to pass this time.”

“I need rest right now.”

“Can you please unload the dishwasher tonight”?

“Mommy needs ‘alone time’ to recharge.”

“Not right now.”

If these statements still feel too foreign to you, take a five-minute pause before responding to a request. Ask for help instead of pushing through (ask exactly for what YOU need, even if it feels uncomfortable).

Take a pause, stay quiet, breathe. Boundaries are built through repetition, not perfection, as with any other good habit you’re trying to build into your routine. You got this!

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Find Childcare That Works For Your Whole Family A closer look at how Vivvi is helping families rethink early care

BY TARYN MOHRMAN

I

n New York, childcare quickly becomes one of the most complex parts of starting or growing your family. It’s not just the cost— though that’s real—it’s the emotional weight, the logistics, and the pressure of getting it right from the very beginning.

For many of us, there’s no built-in village. Grandparents aren’t around the corner and most households rely on two working parents, which means childcare isn’t just part of the equation—it’s the support system that everything else is built on.

Still, the options can feel overwhelming.

Nanny or daycare? Full-time or part-time?

Flexible or structured? It can be difficult for parents to navigate something so personal when the stakes feel so high. Because in reality, you’re not just arranging coverage— you’re choosing the environment and the people who will help shape your child’s earliest experiences, while also supporting your own ability to function, work, and feel at ease when you can’t be there yourself.

For a growing number of New York families, that search is leading them to Vivvi.

Why Vivvi stands out As the realities of modern parenting continue to evolve, many families are looking for something more than traditional daycare or preschool options can offer—something that brings together reliable care, meaningful early learning, and the flexibility modern life demands.

With 13 schools in and around New York City serving children from 6 weeks through age 5, Vivvi is designed to support families during every stage of early childhood. It’s not simply a

12 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

daycare—it’s a model that combines highquality early education with full-day care in one cohesive experience.

For working parents, that distinction matters. Most locations operate from 7am to 7pm, offering extended hours that align with real schedules, commutes, and the unpredictability of daily life. That means your commute to Midtown, your 8 a.m. meeting, your after-work obligation—it’s all covered.

Inside Vivvi, the experience is just as thoughtfully designed. Classrooms are open and light-filled, encouraging exploration, while learning is rooted in curiosity, discovery, and guided play. Vivvi’s curriculum aligns with New York State standards to prepare children for kindergarten, helping them build the skills needed to reach key milestones as they grow.

Music, art, and movement are also built into the day—exposing children to a range of enrichment experiences without families needing to coordinate additional programs. The result is a structured, dependable environment that brings together care, learning, and development in one place.

For parents, Vivvi offers something equally

important: consistency and confidence. A reliable schedule, a team of experienced educators, and a setting designed with intention—all working together to create a childcare experience that supports children and the families raising them.

How to choose child care While every family approaches childcare differently, there are a few core considerations that guide the process. From schedule to socialization to cost and more, every childcare option comes with pros and cons. Whether you’re thinking about Vivvi, a nanny or another route entirely, it helps to prioritize the factors that mean most to you.

Schedule A nanny can offer a high level of flexibility, with schedules tailored to a family’s specific needs.

However, that flexibility is tied to one person’s availability, and longer days or overtime can quickly add complexity in addition to cost.

For many parents, the consistency of a childcare center actually means greater flexibility, with no cancellations or added costs. Vivvi

Photos by Yumi Matsuo

locations offer extended hours—typically 7am to 7pm—along with 2-day, 3-day, and 5-day schedules, making it simple for parents to align childcare with the reality of work routines and commutes and adjust as needed along the way.

Expertise At Vivvi, care and education are intertwined.

Classrooms are led by trained early childhood educators, and each day is intentionally designed to support development across areas like language, motor skills, and early problem-solving.

With a nanny, the experience can vary depending on background and training. Learning may be more informal—or require parents to take a more active role in structuring activities and enrichment.

Socialization One of the defining features of a group childcare setting is the opportunity for increased daily interaction. At Vivvi, children are part of a peer community, learning how to communicate, collaborate, and navigate relationships with support from teachers every day.

If you choose a nanny, your child may benefit from individualized attention, though social experiences often need to be arranged separately through classes or playdates.

Cost Cost is always a consideration—especially in

New York. Nanny care is often the more expensive route, as families are effectively covering one person’s salary in full, along with payroll taxes, paid time off, overtime, and the cost of activities.

Child care centers tend to be more costefficient per hour since many families share the cost. Vivvi offers a predictable, all-in tuition pricing that includes care, education, and enrichment. For some families, employer-sponsored programs can also help offset the expense.

Consistency Reliability can be one of the most important— and underrated—factors when it comes to childcare.

With a nanny, backup coverage often needs to be arranged separately, which can leave parents navigating last-minute changes or unexpected gaps in care.

Vivvi operates with a team-based model, meaning there are always multiple educators supporting each classroom, and coverage is built in.

Management An often-overlooked consideration is who will manage childcare for your family. At Vivvi, the system is already in place—staffing, operations, and oversight are handled internally, allowing parents to focus more time on their families and personal lives.

Hiring a nanny also means stepping into

the role of employer, with responsibilities like hiring, contracts, payroll, and day-to-day logistics.

Find the right fit The right childcare is more than a solution—it becomes part of the foundation your family builds on, offering stability, community, and room to grow.

A positive experience doesn’t just support your schedule—it expands your child’s world, introducing new relationships, new experiences, and new ways of learning. And for parents, it brings something just as important: the sense that you’re not doing this alone.

Vivvi’s top tips for parents As you consider your options, these reminders can help keep you grounded: • It’s okay to pivot—many families adjust their childcare approach over time • There’s no one-size-fits-all solution; what works for others may not work for you • Taking a tour and meeting educators can offer clarity you won’t get online • See how a space feels—warmth, engagement, and design all matter • Think ahead to the toddler and preschool years, not just the immediate need May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

13

FAMILY FUN

Best Zoos Near NYC for Families

BY DANIELLE RAMOS

S

pend a day with your family discovering zoos throughout New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Orange County, and Fairfield. These destinations offer a chance to see a wide range of exotic and native animals, and are perfect for little (and big) animal lovers. There is nothing quite like being close to animals and watching them in person. Many locations also offer interactive experiences like animal feedings, touch tanks, and children’s areas, perfect for a fun, hands-on day with the kids.

Whether you’re staying local or turning it into a mini day trip, these zoos make for the kind of outing everyone can get excited about!

Best Zoos in Manhattan Central Park Zoo 64th Street and Fifth Avenue, Central Park (212) 439-6500 Closest subway stops: N, R, W at 5th Avenue59th Street station Stop by the iconic Central Park Zoo to see its famous sea lions, visit the grizzly bears or the snow leopards, and be amazed by several types of penguins. The zoo also hosts community events, has a Children’s Zoo perfect for little ones, and offers programming that is sure to get kids excited about animals, nature, and protecting both.

Encounters are open, too, which will help you and the kids maximize your day at this famous zoo.

Best Zoos in the Bronx Bronx Zoo 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx (718) 220-5100 Closest subway stops: 2 and 5 – Bronx Park East station Recommended ages: All ages The Bronx Zoo is the Wildlife Conservation Society’s flagship zoo. Explore more than 265 acres and meet more than 8,000 animals, including gorillas in the Congo Gorilla Forest exhibit, lions and tigers, giraffes, the animals of North America, and so many more. The Bug Carousel, nature trek, and up-close-and-personal Wild

Best Zoos in Brooklyn Prospect Park Zoo 450 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Heights (718) 399-7339 Closest subway stops: B, Q, S – Prospect Park station Recommended ages: All ages Some of Prospect Park Zoo’s coolest animal inhabitants include sea lions, dingoes, emus, and the fluffy Pallas Cat. Take a winding walk along the Discovery Trail to visit red pandas and tufted deer, or visit the zoo’s smallest species in the Hall of Animals. The zoo’s barn and garden are the perfect places for little ones to explore, too!

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Best Zoos in Queens Alley Pond Environmental Center 229-10 Northern Blvd, Queens (718) 229-4000 Closest bus stop: Q 12: Northern Blvd/Morgan St; Douglaston Station on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Alley Pond is dedicated to educating kids (and parents!) about animals, open spaces, and waterbodies, and to protecting and preserving nature. Some of the Animal Ambassadors you can visit include rabbits, chinchillas, turtles, snakes, and birds. APEC hosts a variety of programming for kids, including the Summer SENSES science exploration program and other summer camp sessions, holiday-themed weekend programming, and the Vet Tech 101 program. And, you can always explore the center’s beautiful trails, too.

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FAMILY FUN

Queens Zoo 53-51 111th St, Corona (718) 271-1500 Closest subway stops: 7: 111th St If you’re looking for a family-friendly zoo in New York, the Queens Zoo is such a lovely place to spend the day because it’s full of friendly animals, walking trails, and peaceful spots to explore at your own pace. Besides being home to a wide variety of wildlife— from alligators, to mountain lions, to Andean bears—that visitors can view at their leisure, the zoo also offers a walk-through aviary, an animal trail, and several very cool domestic animals such as Flemish great rabbits and Texas longhorns! Several educational programs are available for kids, including wildlife school, professional development programs, and school break programs. Visit the zoo’s website to learn more.

Best Zoos in Staten Island Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway, Staten Island (718) 442-3101 The Staten Island Zoo has everything kids could want in a zoo, including a children’s center, horse barn, the Honey Bee Apiary, an exhibit that showcases cuddly otters, a reptile wing, and several dinosaur sculptures!

Best Zoos in Long Island Suffolk County Farm and Education Center 350 Yaphank Ave, Yaphank (631) 852-4600 Suffolk County Farm is open every day, weather permitting. The kids can meet countless farm animals, including horses, sheep, and cows, and can participate in programming such as winter wildlife clinics and winter adventures. Follow the farm’s Facebook and Instagram pages for updates on the animals.

Long Island Game Farm Wildlife and Children’s Zoo 489 Chapman Blvd, Manorville (631) 878-6644 The Long Island Game Farm is home to zebras, giraffes, alpacas, donkeys, wild mustangs, African serval cats, emus, wallabies, lemurs, alligators, foxes, and more!

Best Zoos in Westchester County Muscoot Farm 51 Route 100, Katonah (914) 864-7286 Muscoot has more than 50 animals to visit, including donkeys, cows, horses, goats,

16 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

chickens, and turkeys, and several historic buildings that make it a quaint and familyfriendly place to explore. There are more than six miles of trails to hike with the kids, several programs for kids in the summer and winter, and awesome maple sugaring events happening safely and soon.

The Wolf Conservation Center 7 Buck Run, South Salem (914) 763-2373 The Wolf Conservation Center is committed to protecting, celebrating, and educating people about wolves. Ambassador Wolves Silas and Nikai teach people not to fear wolves; beyond the Ambassadors, guests can visit red wolves and Mexican gray wolves.

Special programming includes a summer wolf camp for kids, the Sleeping with Wolves overnight program, and several virtual opportunities to meet the wolves.

Best Zoos in Orange County Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Outdoor Discovery Center: 120 Muser Drive (across from 174 Angola Road), Cornwall (845) 534-5506 Wildlife Education Center: 25 Boulevard, Cornwall-on-Hudson (845) 534-7781 The Hudson Highlands Nature Museum’s mission is to help kids become responsible caretakers of the natural world through educational programming, several places to play, and miles of hiking trails. Visit the Grasshopper Grove in the spring, summer, and fall, explore the expansive grounds, or download a trail map and hike one of the two stroller-

accessible trails or into Black Rock Forest.

Maple sugaring events are also happening this spring—visit the website for details.

Best Zoos in Fairfield County, CT Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo 1875 Noble Ave, Bridgeport (203) 394-6565 Located just outside NYC,BeardsleyZoo is theperfect choice forashortzoo visit,fullof rare animals andeasyto reach.Manyexoticandfantasticanimals callthe Beardsley Zoo home.Fromrare Amurleopards andtigers tomaned andMexicanwolves,yourkids are sure to findananimal they’llfallinlove with.

The zoo also offers Zoo Patrolprogramming forkids, plentyof virtualeducationalevents,birthdayparties, and scavengerhunts.Keepaneye outforthe peacockswho roamfreelyaroundthe zoo grounds!

Zoo Live Streams Bring the zoo to you with these experiences!

Wildlife Conservation Society The Bronx Zoo, New York Aquarium, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and Prospect Park Zoo are sharing animal content like videos, virtual learning, and Instagram stories, featuring animals to bring the zoo to you.

Visit this page to stay updated.

Utica Zoo Uti-kaZoo: Utica Zoo Kid’s Academy—Learn about alligators, crocodiles, Waylon, and more through videos and activities.

Zoo New England The Kids’ Corner offers videos and fun printouts, games, quizzes, and more

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17

PARENTING

Parenting Strategies for Highly Sensitive Children

BY SOE KABBABE

I

f your child cries at loud birthday parties, melts down after school, notices every subtle shift in your mood, or asks big questions that seem far beyond their years, you may be parenting a highly sensitive child. If you are, you’ve likely heard that “they’ll toughen up” at some point. But here’s what many parents quietly discover: highly sensitive children don’t need to toughen up. They need to be understood.

In general, children are thought to have a more sensitive nervous system. That sensitivity isn’t a flaw; it’s a temperament trait.

These kids often feel deeply, think deeply, and process the world in a richly layered way. The challenge is that their nervous systems can become overwhelmed more easily.

Parenting highly sensitive children requires patience. It’s less about fixing behavior and more about building regulation skills— gently, consistently, and with respect for how their brains are wired.

Before diving into strategies, it helps to clarify what high sensitivity is and what it isn’t. A highly sensitive child may: • Be deeply empathetic and emotionally intuitive

18 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

• React strongly to loud sounds, scratchy clothing, or crowded spaces like airports or public events • Need extra time to warm up in new environments • Feel hurt by criticism more intensely than peers • Struggle after long school days due to sensory overload • Notice subtle details others miss, especially when it comes to emotional reactions or mannerisms This isn’t the same as anxiety, though the two can overlap. Highly sensitive children have nervous systems that process things and feelings more thoroughly. That depth is often a gift, but it requires skillful support. The goal, as parents, isn’t to eliminate sensitivity from their personality. It’s to teach your child how to live comfortably inside it.

Strategies to Help Highly Sensitive Children Build Resilience Validate First, Problem-Solve Second. When your child is overwhelmed, your instinct may be to reason with them. But logic doesn’t land when the nervous system is overwhelmed. So, start with validation: “That was really loud in there;” “It makes sense that your feelings got

hurt”; “You had a big day. Your body looks tired.” Perhaps my personal favorite, and one that I use often with my daughter: “It’s okay; you are just tired and overstimulated”.

Validation doesn’t mean you agree with every reaction. It means you acknowledge the experience. Once your child feels understood, their nervous system begins to settle, and then problem-solving becomes possible.

Create Predictable Transitions for Highly Sensitive Children. Highly sensitive children struggle most with sudden shifts like leaving the house, ending screen time, walking into a new classroom, or meeting new people. Transitions may be hard for them, so the best approach would be to build some predictability: give 10-minute and 5-minute warnings; use visual schedules for younger kids (we have a fridge calendar and a household chore list, so my kids are aware of what needs to be done), or rely on small rituals, like a goodbye hug routine or quick breathwork when you wait for the school bus.

Build a “Decompression Ritual” After School.

Many sensitive children appear “fine” all day and then unravel at home. This isn’t manipulation, it’s a nervous system release in their safest space. Instead of jumping straight into homework or questions, offer decompression—quiet time alone in their room; a snack in silence; a bath or shower; reading under a blanket or time with headphones and calming music.

Think of it as an emotional pressure

release. The more regulated they feel at home, the more resilient they become outside it.

Teach Emotional Vocabulary Early. Highly sensitive children feel deeply but may not yet have the language to describe what’s happening internally. Help them build it!

“That sounds like disappointment;” “is that frustration or embarrassment?”; “does your body feel buzzy or heavy right now?.”

When children can name feelings, they are less controlled by them. Emotional literacy is one of the most protective skills you can offer. This can also apply to parents, but that’s a topic for another time!

Model Regulation Yourself. This may be the hardest one. Highly sensitive children are exquisitely attuned to parental tone, facial expression, and stress levels. They often absorb your emotional state before you speak.

As a parent, I can assure you it’s been one of the hardest lessons motherhood has taught me, and perhaps one I haven’t mastered yet, but as with everything kids-related, we learn as we go.

When you say, “I’m feeling frustrated, so I’m going to take a few breaths,” you normalize regulation. When you apologize for snapping, you teach repair. Cliche but leading by example is the way to start!

Body-Based Regulation Tools. Coping skills should be practiced when your child is calm, not only during meltdowns. Just as moms need sensory techniques to calm their nervous system, kiddos do so as well. Teach them to slow breath—my daughter and I have this “game” that helps her regulate her emotions: “smell the flowers” and “blow the birthday candle” (as in, inhale and exhale for several times). You can also give them a small sensory object (smooth stone, fidget, soft fabric).

Anything to help them stop and focus.

When to Seek Expert Support for Highly Sensitive Children High sensitivity is not a diagnosis. However, there are times when additional support is important. Sometimes a few sessions focused on coping skills can make an enormous difference. Consider consulting a pediatrician,

child psychologist, or therapist if your child: • Avoids school consistently due to distress • Experiences panic attacks or severe anxiety • Has persistent sleep disturbances • Struggles to maintain friendships • Shows signs of depression (withdrawal, hopelessness, loss of interest) • Has frequent meltdowns that interfere significantly with daily life Parenting a highly sensitive child can feel intense in the early years. You may worry whether the world will be too harsh, too loud, too fast. But many sensitive children grow into deeply compassionate adults. They become thoughtful leaders, creative thinkers, loyal friends, and intuitive partners.

Your role is not to toughen them. It’s to help them understand their wiring and build tools to navigate it. That means patience on hard days or boundaries when needed.

Remember, you’re not raising a fragile child, but a perceptive one, and with the right support, that perception can become one of their greatest gifts!

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Learn more about us: www.beginningwithchildren.org Contact us: info@bwcf.org May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

19

HEALTH

Think You’re Too Young for Menopause?

BY DANIELLE RAMOS

A

few years ago, I went with a friend to the pharmacy after we dropped off our middle schoolers. Staring at the pregnancy tests, I could feel her nerves. At age 42, she hadn’t been pregnant in more than a decade and thought her days of raising babies were over for good, but not having had a period in eight weeks could only mean one thing. The test was negative, so she bought another a few days later, which was also negative. Then a trip to her doctor brought her news she simply was not ready to hear. “ ‘You may be menopausal.’ That’s what my doctor told me, and I thought she was surely joking,” she told me later that week.

“I’m young. My period has always been like clockwork, and I feel fine.”

My friend’s doctor was right, and her period never returned. To make things more confusing, one of the moms in our circle was unexpectedly pregnant at 46. We all spent a lot of time outside the school that year talking about how entirely strange fertility can be, and how just when you think you know what to expect from your body, you can easily get a surprise in more ways than one.

Average Age of Menopause According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the average age in the United States is 51, but menopause can occur between 40 and 60.

It happens when your ovaries stop making estrogen, your periods stop, and your body moves out of its reproductive years. When this happens between 40 and 45, it’s considered early menopause, and before age 40, it’s known as premature menopause.

According to Yale Medicine, approxiamtely 5% of women experience early menopause, and about 1% of women go through premature menopause, which can happen in their 30s and in some rare cases, even earlier.

“There are certain genetic reasons and autoimmune conditions that can lead to early or premature menopause, but sometimes we never really quite know why it happens,” says

20 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

Hugh Taylor, MD, chair of Yale Medicine Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences.

Causes of Early and Premature Menopause Possible causes include • Autoimmune disease • Chemotherapy treatment • Hysterectomy (which sends a woman into instant menopause) • Smoking • Genetic component • History in the family There isn’t a single test that definitively diagnoses menopause. Instead, doctors officially diagnose it after you’ve gone 12 straight months without a period. The stretch of time leading up to that point, when symptoms start popping up and cycles become unpredictable, is called perimenopause. It can last a few months or stretch out for years, with most people spending about four years in this transition.

Still, it’s a good idea to have certain hormones tested at your annual visit. The Mayo Clinic recommends that women test folliclestimulating hormone, estrogen, and thyroidstimulating hormone. Follicle-stimulating hormone levels increase and estradiol levels decrease as menopause occurs, while an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause similar symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms Signs and symptoms that you may be headed

toward menopause include: • Irregular periods (very heavy, longer, or shorter than usual) • Vaginal dryness • Hot flashes • Night sweats • Sleep problems • Mood changes • Stubborn weight gain The vast majority of women report symptoms, and up to 70 percent of women experience hot flashes for years, but there are those who do not. Some women experience no symptoms other than the absence of a monthly period. Others can have unusual symptoms like urgent and painful urination, brain fog, shoulder pain, bone and muscle aches, and dry skin.

“I felt fine throughout,” my friend recently told me. She has not had a period in three years and is considered post-menopausal now. “Once I knew I wasn’t pregnant and got over the shock of what was happening, I was actually relieved. I didn’t have any debilitating symptoms, and I honestly don’t miss my period at all!”

If your periods are changing or you’re noticing symptoms that could point to menopause, look for a gynecologist who specializes in hormone testing and menopause care, bring a list of questions, and get clear answers. You’ll feel so much better knowing what’s actually going on instead of wondering.

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May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

21

CAMP

SPECIALTY CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS Summer is near, and you may still be figuring out camp, which is why a speciality camp is a great consideration.

How these camps work is they are crafted around what your kid is into, such as sports, STEM, arts, creativity, movement, and everything in between. Specialty camps give them space to build confidence, and connect with kids who are on their wavelength. Campers get all the summer essentials like structure and new friendships, but with way more purpose. Less one-size-fits-all, more “this feels like me.”

We’ve rounded up a list of these camps and standout summer programs that are worth a look. Because the best summers are about being meaningful and fun!

Camp Level Up 48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 570-218-8166, gamer@camplevelup.com camplevelup.com

Camp Level Up is a 1-week sleepaway camp experience for campers entering 4th to 12th grade who want to improve on their gaming skills, all while enjoying the traditional camp activities that a sleepaway camp facility can offer. Located and powered by the team at Pocono Springs - a premiere private sleepaway camp in the Poconos (75 miles from NYC), Camp Level Up offers a hybrid program of esports gameplay and traditional camp activities.

Campers spend 70% of their day participating in competitive gaming and the other 30% immersed in an assortment of traditional camp activities including adventure ropes course, arts and aquatics/ lakefront. Campers of all gaming skill levels are welcome!

CBE Kids Camp

Creator Camp

274 Garfield Place 718-768-3814 ext 238, cbekids@cbebk.org cbebk.org/cbe-kids-camp

City Life Church, 425 Hoyt St. Brooklyn, N.Y.11231 713-487-8553, support@creatorcamp.org creatorcamp.org

CBE Kids Summer Camp runs weekly between June 29 - August 14, 2026. Kids Camp has an indoor swimming pool, are steps from Prospect Park, and holds fun events throughout the summer! CBE Kids is dedicated to serving the Park Slope community and beyond.

Rooted in being welcoming and inclusive, and providing campers with deep connections to one another is CBE Kids’ focus; aiming to be a place where campers can try new things, make new friends, and grow through play. To learn more, go to: www.cbebk.org/cbe-kidscamp. Follow them on Instagram @CBEKidsClub. CBE Kids Camp will be posting discounts and offers throughout the year.

Creator Camp is a creative technology camp for kids ages 5–13, where technology is used as a tool for creation rather than just consumption. From filmmaking and animation to game design and YouTube production, students build original projects in a collaborative, hands-on environment. Led by expert instructors, the camp offers 2-day and 3-day sessions designed to meet every child at their skill level. Each day features a balance of screen-based creativity and screen-free social breaks, ensuring an engaging and wellrounded experience. Kids head home with their custom projects, a Creator Camp hat, and a sense of creative confidence.

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DNA Learning Center Science Summer Camps NY City College of Technology 62 Tillary Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 718-285-0389, dnalc-camps@cshl.edu summercamps.dnalc.org

Join the DNA Learning Center this summer for an immersive, fiveday science experience and unravel the mysteries of life. Budding scientists entering 6th–12th grade will develop real research skills, build academic confidence, boost their college profiles, and have a blast exploring the frontiers of biology. Guided by their experienced instructors, students get to perform real experiments several grade levels ahead of their peers, from crime-solving forensic DNA analysis to cutting-edge gene cloning and transformation techniques. Their week-long day camps take place between June 29 and September 4 2026, and are available across their four core locations in NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and Wayne, New Jersey. Need-based scholarships, multi-camp, and sibling discounts are available upon request.

Kids N Comedy 208 West 23 Street 212-877-61150, info@kidsncomedy.com kidsncomedy.com

Kids & Comedy offers a fun, creative escape where kids trade in campfire songs for punchlines and stage time. Campers learn the fundamentals of stand-up comedy, improv, and sketch writing in a supportive, high-energy environment. Guided by professional comedians and improvisers, kids build confidence, sharpen their creativity, and develop performance skills while having a great time. Each twoweek session wraps up with a live graduation show, giving campers the chance to showcase their new talents for family and friends. Sessions run Monday through Friday from noon to 4 PM, with three options available: July 6–17, July 20–31, and August 3–14. Kids can enroll in one, two, or all three sessions for an unforgettable summer experience.

The Park Slope Day Camp Carroll Gardens location at the Senesh School 342 Smith Street, between 1 & 2 Places Park Slope at PS 321, 180 7 Avenue, between 1 & 2 Streets Windsor Terrace at St Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy 241 Prospect Park West, between Prospect Ave. & Windsor Pl. 718-788-7732, camp@parkslopedaycamp.com parkslopedaycamp.com/nyfamily-welcome

Park Slope Day Camp’s ‘Take the Stage’ program is designed for kids who love the excitement of putting on a show and bringing ideas to life in front of an audience. And it’s not just about performing, campers help create the entire show from the ground up. Each 3-week session ends with two full, original performances, where all their hard work comes together and every child gets their moment to shine. Through hands-on performing arts and stagecraft, campers build confidence, tap into their creativity, and form real friendships along the way. And of course, it’s still camp! Days are filled with activities, games, and trips to round out the experience. Transportation and extended days are available.

Park Slope United Soccer Downtown Brooklyn (LIU Athletic Center) and Prospect Park 929-822-5051 parkslopeunited.com/club/summer-soccer-camp

Whether your child has been a member of a travel team for years or has never kicked a ball before, Park Slope United has a camp perfectly suited to their level of playing experience. All of PSU’s camps focus on soccer while emphasizing fun and are staffed with professional coaches that provide the highest quality instruction. Camp runs weekly mid-June through August. Camps include: Tot Footy: ages 2-4, Developmental Camp: ages 5-11, Select & Impact Leagues Camp: ages 5-12, and for travel-level players – BKU Elite Training Camp. PSU Summer Camp is built around having maximum fun while building a foundation of soccer skills and developing as an athlete. Sibling discounts and multiple camp registrations are available.

May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

23

CAMP

SKATEYOGI Williamsburg and Prospect Lefferts Gardens 718-484-9777, hello@skateyogi.com skateyogi.com

SKATEYOGI welcomes anyone from absolute beginners to experienced skaters in a fun, creative environment. Offered at both their Williamsburg and Prospect Lefferts Gardens locations, SKATEYOGI Summer Camp welcomes anyone ages 7-14 (Rising 2nd graders and up) from absolute beginners to experienced skaters in a fun, creative environment. Campers are exposed to both outdoor skating on daily trips to skateparks around NYC and indoor ramp practice in their air-conditioned facilities. Skatepark etiquette and skateboarding topics are introduced throughout the camp. Their low student-to-teacher ratio ensures plenty of personal attention. They also offer a shorter mini camp for younger skaters ages 5-7 (Rising K and up). Rental skateboards and safety gear are included for all camp programs. Join the fun this summer and discover the joy of skateboarding!

Windward Isle Camp Locations in: Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan 917-426-4296, windwardislesrec@gmail.com wirc-nyc.camp

Windward Isles Recreation Camps (WIRC) brings an exciting blend of track and field and cross country training to NYC youth. The program focuses on “fun work,” turning athletic development into an engaging adventure. As August arrives, the curriculum highlights preparing for the upcoming school year, helping students build the endurance, discipline, and focus needed for their fall seasons.

Whether navigating local trails for distance running or mastering techniques on the track, athletes grow in a supportive, communitydriven environment. These sessions encourage kids to discover the joy of movement while gaining confidence for both the classroom and the field. Start the school year strong and energized with Windward Isles Recreation Camps.

World Explorers Summer Camp PS 261, 314 Pacific St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 855-687-6923, info@explorerkids.us brooklyn.explorerkids.us/summer-camp

YMCA of Greater New York Summer Day Camps 20+ Locations Across All 5 Boroughs in NYC 212-630-9720, rho@ymcanyc.org ymcanyc.org/camp

Awesome starts here at Y Summer Camp! Every kid finds a summer designed for them, and friends and memories are made every day.

The Y is a playground for imagination, adventure, and learning new things. The Y’s expert counselors help unlock the awesome inside every kid. Sessions are filling up fast! Register today!

24 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

World Explorers Summer Camp delivers an unforgettable summer experience that sparks curiosity and builds lasting confidence.

Through Explorer Pad Discovery Stations, children engage in handson workshops such as digital movie making, culinary arts, 3D printing, and sports, encouraging creativity and skill development. The program also includes off-site adventures that promote independence, self-reliance, and personal growth through meaningful, outward bound-style experiences. Designed as a worry-free, all-inclusive camp, it offers a full-day program with all meals and snacks provided, allowing families to focus on the experience. To maintain a high standard of care, enrollment is intentionally limited, ensuring a premium, personalized environment where each child receives individual attention while exploring new interests and building confidence.

Mon 6/15–Fri 9/4 Discover the joy of skateboarding this summer!

Kids Camps Rising Grades 2-9 Mini Camps Rising Grades K-2

Come try our single day camps on 5/27, 6/4, 6/5 or 6/19!

Williamsburg | 58 N 9 St PLG | 140 Empire Blvd hello@skateyogi.com

June 29th-August 14th, 2026

May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

25

PARENTING

How to Stop MEASURING Your MOTHERHOOD In achievement-driven communities, parenting can feel like a performance.

An expert explains the cost of constant comparison

BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD

T

here’s this pressure that many moms, at least the moms I know, feel the moment they start spending time in the outside world, especially in high-achievement cities like New York. It’s that subtle but constant question humming in the background: Am I a good mother?

It shows up early. The baby who cries more than the others. The feeling that your child is that baby on the plane. Or your little one is having their third meltdown, while it seems like every other child is chilling and sharing snacks and taking turns, as if no other kid has ever had a tantrum before.

There is nothing wrong with any of this, but there can be a pull that comes with it. Then the pressure grows legs. Schedules fill up.

Playdates become social currency. There are activities and milestones to meet, and the list starts to feel endless, and all this is being shared on WhatsApp after you have finished your long day.

If you are spiraling under that “Good Mother” pressure and invisible standards, you are not alone. I have been there and still have to catch myself when I am focusing on not being organized enough, not calm enough, or on how well my child behavesand adjusts. Because somewhere along the way, motherhood may quietly shift from being a relationship to being something that feels evaluated, and that is something we need to just say “I’m going to pass” on this pressure.

So, how can we get back to not measuring ourselves and giving ourselves grace? We spoke with psychologist and executive coach Dr. Anne Welsh, author of the upcoming book Ambitious Mother, who says this quiet sense of being constantly measured is something she hears from mothers all the time.

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-We, moms, raise our kids in a great city bit it is also a pretty high-achievement, at the park, education, how does this environment shape moms’ expectations of themselves?

It often leads mothers to believe they have to do and be everything, all at once.

High-achievement environments tend to amplify perfectionism, not because moms are unrealistic or ungrateful, but because the bar feels impossibly high and constantly moving.

I see this show up with clients who are doing an extraordinary amount, deeply engaged, thoughtful parents, yet who feel like they’re failing because someone else’s version of motherhood looks more polished, more resourced, or more impressive. When other families appear to be doing more, spending more, or optimizing every aspect of their child’s life, it can quietly erode a mother’s confidence, even when she’s doing the most important things well.

What’s painful is that what looks like “not enough” from the inside is often more than enough in reality. But it’s very hard to hold onto that perspective when you’re immersed in a culture that equates good parenting with relentless investment and visible achievement.

-Why do so many of us moms feel that sinking feeling that we are failing when we are exhausted and are doing our best?

Because modern motherhood has become a no-win situation. Expectations have escalated dramatically, and they’re often contradictory. Mothers are expected to be endlessly present, emotionally regulated, and attuned, while also being ambitious, productive, and self-actualized, often with very little support.

Parenting is also one of the most judgment-filled spaces many women will ever inhabit. No matter what choices you make,

how you feed your baby, how your child sleeps, whether you work, how much you work, what school your child attends, there’s almost always criticism waiting on the other side. You’re told to push your child, but not too much. To protect them from stress, but also prepare them for a competitive world.

I often say to clients: You’re not failing.

You’re navigating an impossible set of expectations. When you’re constantly trying to thread an impossibly thin needle, feeling like you’re failing isn’t a personal flaw, it’s a predictable outcome.

-How can one know when their parenting has turned into unhealthy perfectionism or burnout?

One of the clearest signals is when a child’s behavior or success starts to feel like a verdict on a mother’s worth. When a parent’s happiness feels contingent on how well a child is doing, or when kids start to feel like a project to manage rather than a person to know, that’s a heavy burden for both sides.

Healthy involvement is responsive and attuned. Unhealthy perfectionism often shows up as rigid thinking: It has to be this way or everything falls apart. It’s driven by fear, fear of making mistakes, fear of being judged, fear of failing your child. I see this when moms feel intense shame over very normal parenting moments, like losing their patience, which then makes it harder to repair and reconnect.

Burnout can be quieter but just as important to notice. Chronic exhaustion, cynicism, emotional numbness, or a sense that nothing you do really matters anymore are all red flags. Many mothers tell me they think they should be enjoying their kids more, but can’t access that feeling. That’s not a parenting problem, it’s a depletion problem.

activities, or prioritizing mental health over prestige. Often, those decisions are hard precisely because they require trusting your own knowing in a culture that rewards comparison.

Good enough parenting also means keeping yourself in the equation. A mother’s mental health matters deeply to her children.

Kids benefit from having a parent who is present and regulated, not one who is constantly depleted or stretched beyond capacity. Caring for yourself isn’t separate from good parenting; it’s part of it.

-What’s one shift that can help moms move from comparing themselves to others and circumstances to feeling confident in their parenting choices?

Letting go of the idea that parenting, or motherhood itself, is one-size-fits-all.

Each child has unique needs, and each mother has her own values, limits, and desires. When we focus too much on what everyone else is doing, we slowly disconnect from our own intuition, and that’s where confidence erodes.

I often think about it like wearing clothes that don’t fit. You can spend all day adjusting and second-guessing yourself, or you can choose something that actually fits your body and your life. Motherhood works the same way. You are at your best in a version of motherhood that fits you and your family, not one borrowed from someone else.

This is also why I love running groups for ambitious mothers. When women come together and see, in real time, that there are many valid ways to be both ambitious and loving, something softens. The mother who loves her work and could never stay home. The mother who chooses daycare, a nanny, or flexible work. The mother working sixty hours a week and the mother working two. All of those paths can be thoughtful, intentional, and deeply loving. Comparison loses its grip when we see that fit, not uniformity, is the goal.

-What does “good enough parenting” realistically look like, especially for New York moms?

At its core, good enough parenting looks the same everywhere: being responsive, attuned, and willing to see the child in front of you for who they are. It’s about helping children get their needs met, not shaping

them into who you think they should be, or who the environment seems to reward most.

What’s harder in high-achievement cultures is holding onto that clarity when the noise is loud. I work with parents who make very intentional choices that run counter to the dominant culture, whether that’s changing schools, pulling back on

Dr. Anne Welsh is a clinical psychologist and executive coach who works with ambitious mothers navigating parenting, identity, and high-pressure environments. She is the founder of the Ambitious Mother’s Mastermind and the author of the upcoming book, Ambitious Mother: From Surviving to Thriving in Your Career and at Home (Bloomsbury, 8/6/26). , where women come together to move from burnout and perfectionism toward more sustainable, aligned ways of living and leading.

May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

27

calendar

BY SHARA LEVINE

BROOKLYN

Prospect Park AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Pinkster, a historic festival of African culture in New York, with music, history, performances, storytelling, demonstrations, games and food.

WANT TO GO?: Free. prospectpark.org

Weekends in Bloom WHEN: Sundays, May 3 and May 10, 10:30 am – 4 pm WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., Prospect Park AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the spring blooms with casual, pop-up music and dance performances, morning programming for kids and families in the Discovery Garden, and Garden tours.

WANT TO GO?: Included with admission; $16–$22; free for children younger than 12. bbg. org

Brooklyn’s 159th Memorial Day Parade WHEN: Monday, May 25, 11 am WHERE: Parade begins at 3rd Ave. & 78th St., Bay Ridge AGES: All WHAT: Veterans, bands, civic and corporate groups, schools, church groups, and motorcycle clubs will take part in this annual parade honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

WANT TO GO?: Free. brooklynmemorialdayparade. com

Church Avenue Street Fair WHEN: Sunday, May 3, noon – 6 pm WHERE: Lark Cafe, 1007 Church Ave., Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family out for food, live music, rides, activities, a special crafts fair, performances, and more.

WANT TO GO?: Free. eventbrite.com

Turtle Time WHEN: Sunday, May 3, 2:30 – 3 pm WHERE: Prospect Park Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave, Prospect Park AGES: 5 – 10 WHAT: Explore the differences between turtles, tortoises, and terrapins, meet one up close, and discover how they survive in different habitats, what makes their shells special, and more.

WANT TO GO?: $10. prospectparkzoo.com

7th Annual Haitian Culture Day Parade and Festival WHEN: Saturday, May 9, 10 am – 6 pm

Brooklyn Cyclones Star Trek Night

Church Avenue Street Fair in Flatbush WHERE: Parade begins at Nostrand Ave. and Church Ave., Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: This dynamic event honors the culture, history, and traditions of Haiti through music, art, and community pride.

WANT TO GO?: Free. eventbrite.com

Kite Festival WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 11 am – 3 pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, 334 Furman St., DUMBO AGES: All WHAT: Bring your own kite to fly during the one day of the year when kite flying is open to the public in the Park! Plus, enjoy live music, crafts, games, and activities.

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WANT TO GO?: Free. brooklynbridgepark.org

17th of May Parade WHEN: Sunday, May 17, 1 pm WHERE: Parade begins at 3rd Ave. and 85 St., Bay Ridge AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the independence and freedom of May 17, Norway’s Constitution Day, with floats, performances, community groups, local leaders, first responders, and more.

WANT TO GO?: Free.

17thofmayparadecommitteebrooklyn.org

Pinkster Celebration WHEN: Sunday, May 17, 2 – 5 pm WHERE: Lefferts Historic House, 452 Flatbush Ave.,

WHEN: Friday, May 29, 6:30 pm WHERE: Maimonides Park, 1904 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Dress as your favorite Star Trek characters when the ballpark is transformed for a night of themed music and in-game entertainment!

WANT TO GO?: mlb.com

Right of Spring 2026 WHEN: Sunday, May 31, 4 pm WHERE: Old Stone House, 366 Third St., Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: This annual parade and puppet pageant features a costumed performance with handmade masks, larger-thanlife puppets, live music and a parade of characters.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (718) 768–3195, theoldstonehouse. org

MAY

calendar

MANHATTAN Japan Parade and Street Fair WHEN: Saturday, May 9, 11 am – 5 pm WHERE: Parade begins at W 81st St. and Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the friendship between the United States and Japan with floats, live performances, community organizations, local leaders, and special guests!

WANT TO GO?: Free. japanparadenyc.org

New Owner WHEN: May 9–17, see website for schedule WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 7 and older WHAT: Go on a wistful, wordless journey from a dog’s point of view that melds tender puppetry with spellbinding animation.

WANT TO GO?: $25. (646) 223–3010, newvictory.org

20th Annual New York Dance Parade and Festival WHEN: Saturday, May 16, noon – 6 pm WHERE: Parade begins at 17th St. and Avenue of the Americas, Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: See over 10,000 dancers take to the streets at the largest dance parade in the world. Plus, an interactive Festival follows featuring performances, free dance lessons, and more.

WANT TO GO?: Free. danceparade.org

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration WHEN: May 22–25; see website for schedule WHERE: Intrepid Museum, West 46th St., Hell’s Kitchen AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate our men and women in uniform with a variety of special programming. Plus, explore displays, activities and more all weekend long!

WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $28-$38; free

Kite Festival in Brooklyn Bridge Park for children 4 and younger. intrepidmuseum.org

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $28.70. bronxzoo.com

BRONX

Flower Power Nights

Dance Theater of Harlem: Harlem Mouse/Country Mouse WHEN: Sunday, May 17, 3 pm WHERE: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Kingsbridge AGES: All WHAT: This joyful storyballet celebrates the unique expressions of dance, music, and poetry that arise when cultures meet.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $16. (718) 960–8833, lehmancenter.org

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood at the Bronx Zoo WHEN: May 22–Sept. 7, Weekdays, 10 am – 5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 5:30 pm WHERE: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park AGES: All WHAT: Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood comes to the Bronx Zoo with the world premiere of this all-new experience where your family can spend a day with your favorite characters!

AGES: 1–2 WHAT: Designed for young children and their caregivers, greet the spring season in the Museum’s sculpture garden and look at Noguchi’s artworks and their natural elements.

WANT TO GO?: $16. (718) 204–7088, noguchi.org

WHEN: Saturday, May 30, 7:30 – 10 pm WHERE: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate peace and love during a night filled with a mesmerizing liquid light show, music, art, and flowers!

WANT TO GO?: $45. (718) 817–8700, nybg.org

Sheep Shearing Festival

QUEENS Viva El Cinco De Mayo 2026 WHEN: Sunday, May 3, 3 pm WHERE: Kupferberg Center for the Arts at Queens College, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Experience the vibrant traditions of Mexican music and dance with lively rhythms, colorful costumes, and the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.

WANT TO GO?: $22. (718) 793– 8080, kupferbergcenter.org

Art for Tots: Gardens WHEN: Wednesday, May 6, 10:30 – 11:30 am WHERE: The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City

WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 10 am – 5 pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: This annual festival offers farmer-led tours and sheep shearing demos, a scavenger hunt, hands-on kids crafts, local food vendors, and more.

WANT TO GO?: $17. queensfarm.org

Queens International Children’s Festival 2026 WHEN: Saturday, May 16, noon – 5 pm WHERE: Rufus King Park, 15029 Jamaica Ave., Queens AGES: All WHAT: This fun-filled event inspires young people and families to enjoy the arts through live music, dance performances, games, a bouncy house, arts and crafts, and more!

WANT TO GO?: Free

May 2026 | Brooklyn Family

29

AMERICAN 250

Walking Tour Brings Revolution to Life

BY DANIELLE RAMOS

I

f you’ve ever done the Freedom Trail in Boston or walked around Philly hitting the big Revolutionary sites, you know how much easier it is for kids to feel like they’re part of history when they follow a simple route. Now, New York is getting its own version. The NYC Revolutionary Trail, a new 90-minute, 3-mile downtown Manhattan tour, uses augmented reality and Assassin’s Creed visuals to bring Revolutionary-era New York to life—just in time for America’s 250th anniversary.

Launching next month, the NYC Revolutionary Trail: Echoes of Revolution is a free, 90-minute, 3-mile walking tour through Lower Manhattan that uses augmented reality (AR) and geolocation to recreate Revolutionary-era New York right in today’s city streets.

The part kids are most likely to care about is that it uses visuals and characters from Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed world. It’s meant to feel like stepping into the story, keeping it interesting and fun for kids who so easily tune out when adults start talking about historical significance.

30 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

America’s 250th anniversary is coming in 2026, and cities all over the country are gearing up for commemorations. Find out all that is going on in New York and beyond in America’s 250th Birthday: An NYC Family Guide.

New York Played a Big Role in the Revolution Boston and Philadelphia usually get top billing when we talk about the American Revolution. But according to the team behind the project, that leaves out something major: New York City was central to the war.

The creators point out that New York saw both the war’s first big battle and the British evacuation, events that bookend the conflict in a way most people don’t realize. The trail is meant to set that record straight and show New York as a central part of the country’s founding story.

What the Walking Tour Will Look Like Echoes of Revolution begins at The Battery and finishes at Federal Hall, winding through

Lower Manhattan with stops that include Bowling Green, Wall Street, and other key sites where important Revolutionary-era events took place Over the course of the walk, there will be: • Audio narration that tells the story of each site • Character profiles that make history feel like a story • Videos and links for those who want to learn more • A digital overlay showing colonial New York on top of today’s streets The tour is mobile and uses geolocation, so content appears as you reach each spot, designed to feel like you’re walking through the story. Echoes of Revolution will also connect with the Museum of the City of New York’s upcoming exhibit “The Occupied City.”

If you’ve got kids who are even slightly into history, tech, gaming, or New York itself, this trail can be a fun and educational weekend event, and since it’s free, you can go as many times as you like!

Learn more at nycrevolutionarytrail.org.

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