Westchester Family - May 2026

MAY 2026

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

Personal Space

THE BEST PRESCHOOLS

Photographer and mother Yumi Matsuo on crafting her child’s room to meet them where they are, and where they’re going

Stop Measuring Motherhood Already

GUIDE TO SPECIALTY CAMPS

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3

CONTENTS

MAY 2026

NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 44

pg. 46

pg. 42

FEATURES

STORIES & COLUMNS

8 | Mom Stories Tips for setting boundaries as moms

6 | Editor’s Letter

12 | Parenting Parenting strategies for highly sensitive children 34 | Baby Baby names inspired by astrology signs 36 | Dating 7 of the best dating apps for single parents 40 | Parenting How to stop measuring your motherhood 42 | Cover Mother, Yumi Matsuo, was determined to design a space that meets her child where she is, and where she’s going.

4 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

16 | Camp The benefits of a specialty camp 18 | Camp Specialty Camps and Summer Programs

pg. 26

pg. 34

FAMILY FUN 44 | Calendar The best family-friendly events happening this month 46 | American 250 Walking tour brings revolution to life

24 | Health Think you’re too young for menopause?

26 | Family Fun Best zoos in and near NYC for families 30 | Education Top Preschools and Montessori Schools

ON THE COVER Photo: Sidney Scheinberg Photography | sidneyscheinberg.com

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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.

We step into a bright story with our May cover with photographer and mother Yumi Matsuo (page 42), who, along with design firm Knock Twice, crafted a room for her daughter that is not fixed in one moment but built to evolve. It is a space that meets her child where she is today and where she is heading next.

If you have a highly sensitive child, turn to page 12 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 40)?

Summer is SO near, and we share some fun specialty camps and summer programs (page 18) as well as top preschools and Montessori schools (page 30).

For families staying close to the city, we also round up the best zoos near NYC (page 26) 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 46) 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

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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

8 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

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

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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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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

12 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

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13

PARENTING

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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CAMPS

The Benefits of a Specialty Camp

BY ZLATA FAERMAN

A

s summer approaches, both parents and kids begin thinking about how to spend those long, sunny days. For many families, summer camp offers the perfect opportunity for children to explore new interests, build friendships, and grow in confidence.

So, for parents who are considering camp, the big question becomes: Which type is the right fit? Will you choose a day camp that offers a varied program of outdoorsy fun like swimming, sports, hiking, games, and arts and crafts, or a sleepaway camp? Or is this the summer for a specialty camp or two?

What are specialty camps?

Some specialty camps are intended for a specific group of kids—such as those with rare skin conditions, campers with cancer, gifted

16 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

and talented children, at-risk youth, kids with certain health conditions, or individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities. There are also specialty camps for children who want to focus on a particular interest and learn to master a skill, like a specific sport (tennis, soccer, baseball, and more), STEAM, dance, art, academics, and pretty much anything your child shows an interest in.

There are also specialty camps for kids who want to travel—either to experience different cultures or to pursue a passion. For example, there are camps in Costa Rica where campers help save sea turtles.

No matter what your children’s interests are, there is likely a specialty camp out there for them.

The Benefits of a Specialty Camp Specialty camps allow children (and their parents) to come together around a

mutual interest and give kids the chance to meet others with the same passion. These relationships foster a sense of community and encourage kids’ growth and confidence.

Specialty camps provide an opportunity for children to focus deeply on one interest for a short period of time, allowing them to build skills and make meaningful progress.

These camps are also often shorter (one week as opposed to several), which means they can fill in the gaps between other summer plans like traditional day camp, sleepaway camp, or a family vacation.

For families navigating the many camp options available, combining different types of experiences can offer a well-rounded summer. A mix of traditional and specialty programming allows children to explore broadly while also investing time in what excites them most, creating a summer that feels both enriching and memorable.

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17

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!

Bach to Rock: America’s Music School

Amadeus Musical Theater and Arts Camp 201 King Street, Chappaqua, NY 10514 914-238-0388, amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail.com amadeusconservatory.com/programs/summer-camp

Amadeus is a performing arts, musical theater, music and art camp for ages 5 to 14. Kids will sing, dance, act, study instruments like piano, voice, violin, guitar, drums, and more with Amadeus faculty, plus create fine art, design and paint sets. Each camper gets their own role in the show and the freedom to create it. Have fun with outdoor play, sports, arts and crafts. Camp culminates in a performance of the show in a professional theater – this year kids will perform FROZEN. The campers experience the joys of self-expression and creativity and make close friends. Three week session June 29 - July 17, 9:30 - 2:30.

18 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

969B Central Park Ave, Scarsdale, NY 10583 914-768-1630, scarsdale@bachtorock.com bachtorock.com/scarsdale

Bach to Rock Summer Camps give kids a fun, creative way to stay engaged while school is out. With options for different ages, interests, and skill levels, campers can explore music in a hands-on, exciting environment. From learning instruments and playing in bands to songwriting, recording, and themed camps inspired by today’s biggest artists, there is something for every young musician. Camps are designed to build confidence, encourage teamwork, and keep kids inspired through live performance and interactive activities. Whether your child is brand new to music or already loves to perform, Bach to Rock offers an unforgettable summer experience that combines learning and fun. It is a great way for kids to make friends, try something new, and discover their inner rock star.

Camp Level Up

Camp PGT

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

One North Broadway, White Plains, NY 10601 914-946-4433, info@playgroup.org playgroup.org/summer

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!

The Play Group Theatre in White Plains is preparing kids for every stage of life while giving them the tools they need to succeed on stage today. Play Group Theatre offers a fun-filled, non-competitive performing arts program that provides actor training at the highest level while fostering friendships and building skills that last a lifetime. Camp program options include a wide range of 1 and 2-week programs – or combine programs for a 3 or 4-week summer theatre experience in: Acting, Musical Theatre, Sketch Comedy, Playwriting, Improv, On Camera, Design/Tech, Shakespeare, Stage Combat, and more. To sign up for after school programs and summer camps, please visit playgroup.org.

Destination Science The Chapel School Summer Program 172 White Plains Road, Bronxville NY 10708 914-337-3202 x1056, jmastrangelo@thechapelschool.org ccolagrande@thechapelschool.org thechapelschool.org/summer-programs

The Chapel School Summer Program is proud to offer enriching and fun-filled summer programming for children ages 3-12. Their popular 9-week Care Bear Camp for 3- to 6-year-olds provides theme-based learning, arts, crafts, story time and play, as well as outdoor and water play. Morning and afternoon Explorer Programs for children entering 1st through 8th grades includes programs like: Basketball, Musical Theater, Adventure, Sports & Games, Cartooning, Mad Science, Robotics, Mathnasium, Cooking, Art, Tennis and more. Campers register for anywhere from 1 week to 9 weeks and families enjoy the flexible scheduling and care programs that are available to extend days as needed.

Multiple Locations in Long Island and Westchester 888-909-2822, info@destinationscience.org destinationscience.org/new-york-science-camps

Destination Science is a dynamic summer camp that blends STEM learning with energetic, hands-on, make-and-take projects. Designed to spark curiosity and build real-world skills, the professional camp staff make science something kids truly love in a supportive and playful environment. Campers rotate through three interactive science stations, with camp games, songs, and high-energy rallies that keep the excitement going. Three exciting themes this summer: Robot Olympic Challenge: Get ready for the ultimate robotics showdown!

Movie Maker STEM Lab: Lights, camera… chain reaction! Jedi Engineering Camp: From lightsabers to liftoff, use the Force to complete the mission! Multiple Camp Locations: Bronxville, Garden City, Hicksville, Huntington, Manhasset, Setauket, Syosset. May Special Save $30/wk by adding STEM20 at checkout.

May 2026 | Westchester Family

19

CAMP

Hoff-Barthelson Music School DNA Learning Center Science Summer Camps 1 Rockwood Rd, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 516-367-5170, dnalc-camps@cshl.edu summercamps.dnalc.org/regenerondnalc

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.

25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY 10583 914-723-1169, summerarts@hbms.org hbms.org/summer-arts-program

Hoff-Barthelson’s Summer Arts Program delivers a dynamic and rewarding summer experience for students entering grades 1–9. Ideal for families seeking excellence and meaningful engagement, the program blends high-level instruction with a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere. Flexible half- and full-day options across two two-week sessions allow students to tailor their experience while exploring orchestra, chamber music, jazz, group lessons, musicianship, and visual arts.

Guided by an exceptional faculty of professional performers and educators, students build technique, confidence, and creativity through daily ensemble work and individualized attention. With a focus on artistic growth and personal connection, students deepen their love of music and form lasting friendships, resulting in a summer that is joyful and transformative—where young musicians grow, connect, and thrive.

Kisco Art Center (KAC) Art & Imagination Camps, Kids Camp, Teen Camp House of Sports 1 Elm St, Ardsley 914-479-5419, frank.lombardy@houseofsportsny.com houseofsportsny.com/summer-camps

Campers at House of Sports will have a memorable summer experience. They offer professional coaching in a fully climate-controlled facility. Weekly summer camps include basketball, volleyball, girl’s lacrosse, boy’s lacrosse, soccer, and the new Camp Club House, designed for ages 3 to 11 and features sports activities along with various fun activities and daily specials. Both full-day and half-day camp options are available. Registration is open until May 28 with a discount available for those who register early.

20 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

40 Radio Circle Dr, Mt. Kisco 914-232-4843 katonahartcenter.com/summer-camps

The Katonah Art Center offers one-week summer camps for children ages 3.5 through grade 12, with flexible morning, afternoon, and full-day options. The Art and Imagination camp for younger children (ages 3.5 to 5) blends arts and crafts, free art play, storytime, and outdoor fun. Camp options for kids in grades 1 through 5 include jewelry, painting, pottery, and animation, allowing for creative exploration. Teen camps for grades 6 and up focus on specialized topics like outdoor painting, fused glass, and mural painting, offering a more intensive, hands-on artistic experience in a supportive environment.

MakeInspires STEAM Camp MakeInspires Chappaqua: 75 S Greeley Ave 914-861-2159, chappaqua@makeinspires.com MakeInspires Mamaroneck: 1139 W Boston Post Rd, 914-630-7338, mamaroneck@makeinspires.com MakeInspires.com

MakeInspires Summer STEAM offers an enriching camp experience designed for curious, creative minds ages 5 to 15. Celebrating 15 years of hands-on STEAM education, MakeInspires brings its signature makerspace experience to locations across the New York metro area.

Campers explore a rotating mix of handson STEAM subjects each week, focusing on favorites while discovering new passions.

Core offerings include Robotics, 3D Printing and Design, Rocketry, Stop Motion Animation and Filmmaking, Minecraft Education, Design and Engineering, Video Game Creation, and more. To ensure every child receives personalized attention, participants are placed in dedicated age groups with a maximum of six campers per instructor. This small-group structure fosters focused guidance, meaningful skill development, and a true love of making. MakeInspires Summer STEAM is where young innovators build confidence and unleash their creativity.

No Limit Ninja & Sports Summer Camp 222 Lake Ave., Yonkers 10701 914-714-9814, info@yonkersninja.com yonkersninja.com/summercamp

Experience the ultimate summer adventure at No Limit Ninja & Sports Summer Camp, combining the best of sports training and ninja obstacles in an extraordinary day camp experience. Throughout the day, campers rotate between expert-led sports activities and exciting obstacle courses, developing strength, agility, and confidence in both disciplines. Their expert and certified coaches create an engaging environment where children thrive through a perfect balance of structured activities and free play. Located in Yonkers, the camp runs weekly sessions from June through August, with flexible aftercare options available. Each day includes varied activities tailored to different age groups, with a focus on building skills while having fun. Snacks are provided daily in this unique camp experience that combines two dynamic athletic programs.

Westchester County Parks Rock Climbing and Tennis Summer Camp 130 Rhodes Street, New Rochelle 914-636-1019, info@pinebrookfitness.com pinebrookfitness.com/summer

Give your child an action-packed summer with camps at The Rock Club and New Rochelle Racquet Club. From high-energy rock climbing camps that build confidence and coordination to engaging tennis camps that develop skills through fun games and expert instruction, there’s something for every interest and ability. Campers can even enjoy the best of both worlds in the popular Rock ‘n Racquet experience, combining climbing and court time in one unforgettable day. Flexible weekly sessions make it easy for families, while kids enjoy an active, social, and unforgettable summer experience.

Various Locations 914-231-4500 parks.westchestercountyny.gov/children-camps

Children can experience fun, adventure, and skill development at Westchester County Parks’ camps this summer. Kids and teens will have the opportunity to discover, play, and grow while exploring nature, making new friends, and improving their sports skills. These Westchester summer camps offer hands-on experiences at five nature centers, Muscoot Farm, Lasdon Park, and Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center. There are also sports camps focusing on basketball and golf, along with swimming lessons available at four pools.

Parents can feel assured that their children are in capable hands and safely supervised. Westchester County Parks provides a chance for kids to discover, play, and grow.

May 2026 | Westchester Family

21

CAMP

The Windward School Academic Summer Program Westchester Skating Academy 91 Fairview Park Drive, Elmsford, NY 10523 914-347-8232, skateinfo@skatewsa.com skatewsa.com

Westchester Skating Academy is the coolest place to be this summer, catering to beginner skaters through advanced hockey players and competitive figure skaters! Camp Chillin is perfect for children ages 3 – 11 who are looking for the fun and excitement of a traditional camp while learning how to skate. Figure Skating Camp offers fun and challenging group classes both on and off the ice. Professional Hockey Camp coaches guide campers with top-level instruction featuring comprehensive skill development. All of Westchester Skating Academy’s summer camps are available in full-day and half-day formats.

Those who register by Thursday, May 28, will receive $75 off per full week/full-day camp!

COME & HAVE FUN!

June 29–July 17 9:30–2:30, M–F Ages 5–14

Every Camper Gets a Role!

Amadeus • 201 King Street, Chappaqua, NY 10514

RSVP 914-238-0388

amadeusconservatory.com • amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail.com

22 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

212 E 93rd Street New York NY 10128 212-222-8628, manhattansummer@thewindwardschool.org 1275 Mamaroneck Ave White Plains NY 10605 914-949-6968, westchestersummer@thewindwardschool.org thewindwardschool.org

Build skills and gain confidence this summer at The Windward School’s Academic Summer Program. Offered in both Westchester and Manhattan, the program is designed for students in grades 2–9. Using Windward’s proven, research-based multisensory approach, students will strengthen their reading, writing, and learning skills in a structured and supportive environment. Small classes and expert teachers help students stay engaged while reinforcing essential strategies for academic success. Open to a wide range of learners, the program blends rigorous instruction with a positive, confidence-building experience, so students return to school prepared and motivated for the school year.

Windward’s evidence-based summer program follows the School’s curriculum for review, reinforcement, and repetition of critical skills to set your child up for academic success.

Scan the QR code below to learn more and to register!

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May 2026 | Westchester Family

23

HEALTH

Think You’re Too Young for Menopause?

BY DANIELLE RAMOS

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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

24 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.

WESTCHESTER FAMILY PARTNER

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Prevent Problems, Regain Control

P

elvic floor physical therapy is a specialty that is often misunderstood and underutilized in preventing and effectively treating common pelvic floor dysfunctions.

We spoke with Carolyn Winuk, PT, DPT, BCB-PMD, PRPC, owner and founder of Winuk Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, PLLC, to learn more about the services she provides at her Mount Kisco practice.

Dr. Winuk is dual certified as a Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner and a biofeedback provider for pelvic muscle dysfunction.

and establishing goals.

Additionally, a pelvic examination may be required to assess pelvic muscle strength or pain. Follow-up care might include manual therapies, targeted exercise, behavioral modification and lifestyle management strategies, based on diagnosis.

The office offers a private and welcoming environment, and sessions are never rushed, allowing for thoughtful conversation and clear explanations. The overall experience prioritizes comfort, clarity, and convenience which I believe is a major factor in patient compliance and ultimately, long-term results.

What is the usual frequency of treatment?

Patients usually require only one to four visits to achieve meaningful and lasting results. Single consultation visits are quite common, as well. This might be for a second opinion, an annual wellness check or during pregnancy or postpartum, oftentimes a gift from a spouse, friend or relative.

Can you explain the importance of the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, nerves and connective tissue that house our pelvic organs in a supportive “sling” at the base of the pelvis. The pelvic floor works closely with the abdominal muscles, diaphragm, and back muscles to provide core stability and to control bowel, bladder and sexual function.

How do we develop pelvic floor problems and what are some symptoms to look out for?

Life events that place repeated or significant strain on the pelvic floor— such as pregnancy and childbirth—are common contributors. However, they are not the only causes of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Chronic straining with bowel movements, poor exercise technique, persistent coughing, hormonal changes and abdominal surgery are just some of the factors that may alter how these muscles function. Pelvic floor weakness, tightness or poor coordination may cause common symptoms such as urinary leakage with coughing, sneezing, or exercise; a sudden or frequent urge to urinate; difficulty fully emptying the bladder; constipation

or straining with bowel movements; and a sensation of pressure or heaviness in the pelvis that may indicate pelvic organ prolapse. Some individuals also experience pain in the pelvic region, lower back, or hips, discomfort with intercourse, or difficulty controlling gas or stool.

What does a typical pelvic floor therapy session include?

Winuk Pelvic Health is a hybrid practice, and all initial visits are conducted virtually, which allows for timely access to care without long scheduling delays. Follow-ups can be in-person or virtual based on patient preference. Visits are lengthy, and allow ample time for discussion of symptoms, patient education, questions

So, can patients without symptoms see you for a preventive visit?

Absolutely! I wish I could see all patients before symptoms develop; this would provide a great opportunity to identify “a problem waiting to happen.”

Being proactive can help minimize many of the dysfunctions that can arise during the childbearing year and perimenopause (which can actually begin in your thirties!). An early postpartum visit, for example, even in the absence of symptoms, can help someone safely transition back to a prior level of activity.

And wellness check-ups are an empowering and cost-effective means of monitoring and addressing issues early, often reducing the need for more invasive medical and/or surgical interventions down the road.

Winuk Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, PLLC 100 S Bedford Road, Suite 340 Mount Kisco, NY 10549 914-262-2303 info@winukpt.com winukpelvichealth.com

May 2026 | Westchester Family

25

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!

26 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

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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May 2026 | Westchester Family

27

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,

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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

REGISTER NOW

PRESCHOOL

ENROLLMENT REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE 26/27 SCHOOL YEAR

Give Your Child the Best Start!

For over 30 years, World Cup Nursery School has nurtured young learners for success in elementary school and beyond.

For generations, families have trusted us to spark confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning in their children. Enroll today!

Programs offered are: Becoming Twos Full & Half Day Twos, Threes, Fours, and Fives Before & After School Care and Enrichments A Fun-filled Summer Camp

Contact: 914-238-9267

www.worldcupnurseryschool.com

Chappaqua, NY

FRENCH-AMERICAN SCHOOL OF NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AND BILINGUAL SCHOOL

Live Locally, Learn Globally No Knowledge of French Required

Bilingual Program Nursery to Grade 12 International Program Grades 1-12 IB Diploma Program in Grades 11 & 12 Language Institute for Adults & Children 914.250.0401 www.fasny.org May 2026 | Westchester Family

29

EDUCATION

TOP Preschools & Montessori Schools Thinking about preschool? It’s a big move, and a really good one. For your little one, it’s the start of something exciting. For you… it’s maybe your first hot coffee in peace. From play-based programs to Montessori classrooms, New York preschools are full of energy, curiosity, and those magical “firsts.” These early years are about more than the ABCs, they also learn to socialize, share more while building confidence, strengthen their motor skills, and get comfortable in a structured, joyful environment. Think of it as their launchpad: one small, proud moment at a time. We’ve rounded up some of the top preschools and Montessori programs to help you find the right fit, for them and for you.

All Aboard Childcare Education Centers 255 N. Highland Avenue, Ossining, NY 10562 400 Columbus Avenue, Valhalla, NY 10595 914-923-1700, 914-741-1500 allaboarchildcare.com

All Aboard Childcare Education Center is a trusted, family-owned program serving children for over 30 years with a strong reputation for caring teachers and comprehensive early education. Focused on developing the whole child, they offer well-planned learning through Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 programs, aligned with New York State standards and a play-based STEAM approach. Children build skills across socialemotional growth, language, motor development, early math and reading, and critical thinking through both guided and independent exploration. Each day is engaging, fun, and community-centered, with nutritious homemade meals and enriching activities included.

Anna & Jack’s Larchmont Treehouse, 7-11 North Ave., Larchmont New Rochelle Treehouse, 138 Centre Ave., New Rochelle Pelham Treehouse, 629 5th Ave., Pelham 914-454-2591 thetreehouses.org

Ann and Andy Childcare 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 annandandychildcare.com

Ann and Andy Childcare is among the top-rated schools in Westchester, known for its fun learning, outdoor play, and friendly staff. Each child is considered as an individual first, and then as a member of the group. Regularly planned group activities meet children’s natural, physical, emotional, and cognitive needs at play. The carefully trained staff promotes a positive environment and keeps a balanced routine that avoids stress and overstimulation. Ann and Andy’s provides childcare to children from ages 2 months to 14 years, offering an infant, toddler, and preschool program and a before and after school program for school-aged children. They also offer a 9-week summer camp with acres of adventure. They have a flexible schedule that offers part-time and full-time care, hot meals, and age-appropriate trips.

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Anna & Jack’s Treehouse is one of the best schools in Westchester County, which is loved by families for its safe space and caring teachers. At Anna & Jack’s Treehouse, they believe a preschool should feel like an extension of your family. Winning Best of Westchester for six years straight reflects the trust and confidence families place in them. A team of nurturing teachers offers the same care and encouragement your child receives at home—while fostering discovery, friendship, and growth. Small classes and personalized attention create a safe, loving space where children thrive. Program highlights include a strong focus on early literacy, math, and problem-solving skills, nutritious meals and snacks prepared by dedicated chefs, Indoor and outdoor gyms that provide children with daily physical activity, weekly enrichment classes including yoga, art, music, and gym, and daily communication through the Brightwheel parent app and live stream video monitoring. Schedule a tour today and see how they are committed to making the First 5 Years Count!

The Chapel School Preschool Beth El Nursery School 1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle 914-235-2700, ext. 250 bethelnr.org/nursery

The primary goal of Beth El Nursery School (BENS) is to create a foundation for learning in a warm, nurturing environment for children ages 2 to 5 and their families, including a bridge program for children looking for the gift of another year before entering kindergarten.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, BENS views children as competent, full of wonder and eager to explore. Their classrooms stimulate each child’s unique talents and abilities, and the specialists (i.e. music, sports, yoga) foster independent learning, creativity, and expression. The Art Studio, Sensory Gym, and STEAM Studio promote social, physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. Embracing diverse families, Beth El connects to Jewish values to create a learning and caring community.

172 White Plains Road, Bronxville NY 10708 914-337-3202, mbutler@thechapelschool.org thechapelschool.org/preschool

The Chapel School’s award-winning, accredited preschool program provides a safe, nurturing, inclusive Christ-centered environment where children experience a multi-sensory, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Children build social, emotional, communication, and fine and gross motor skills while engaging in play, worship, sharing, music, story time and outdoor play. Full and extended day programs for 3-year-olds are back for the 2026-2027 school year, while maintaining 5:1 and 7:1 student-to-teacher ratios. Programs for 3-year-olds focus on letter and literacy exposure, name recognition, purpose, cooperation and artistic impression. 4-year-olds engage in science experiments, math concepts, handwriting and phonetic connections.

Junior K 4-year-olds and full-day 3-year-olds also enjoy an embedded enrichment program that includes sign language, augmented science explorations, yoga, dramatic expression, cooking, and service learning.

Hudson Country Montessori School The French-American School of New York 914-250-0401, admissions@fasny.org fasny.org

340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 10804 914-636-6202, admissionsny@hudsoncountry.org hudsoncountry.org

The French-American School of New York’s bilingual preschool program begins at 3 years old with an emphasis on language acquisition.

No previous knowledge of French is required. An innovative approach focuses on values of respect, empathy, and positivity, centered on learning, continuous progress, and student well-being. Thematic activities that connect to the student’s developmental milestones target the development of fine and gross motor skills. Through play, students learn skills, investigate problems, develop solutions, and build their independence. As they grow, students are offered the opportunity to participate in either the French-American Program or the International Program, which begins in grade 1. Regardless of program choice, at FASNY, the pedagogical approach is thoughtful, age-appropriate, organized, and focused on academic excellence and student development.

Hudson Country Montessori School inspires curiosity and a true love of learning - guiding children to grow into confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. Through a progressive Montessori approach, students build independence, focus, and critical thinking skills in a carefully prepared environment designed to help each child thrive. From the earliest toddler years through elementary and middle school, children are encouraged to explore, create, and progress at their own pace - developing strong academic foundations alongside social confidence and emotional intelligence. Families value not only the education, but the sense of community and continuity that supports each child’s full development. Serving children in New Rochelle, NY and Danbury, CT, Hudson Country Montessori School. Schedule a private tour to experience the difference firsthand.

May 2026 | Westchester Family

31

EDUCATION

Kiddie Academy of White Plains

Immaculate Heart of Mary School 201 Boulevard, Scarsdale 914-723-5608, info@ihmscarsdale.org ihmscarsdale.org

222 Bloomingdale Road, suite 108, White Plains, NY 10605 914-688-1600 whiteplains@kiddieacademy.net kiddieacademy.com/academies/white-plains

The goal of the IHM Pre-K program is to plant the seeds of respect for others and the world around us and a love of learning. Students engage in hands-on science activities, early reading and math experiences, creative arts, structured lessons, purposeful play, and meaningful social interactions. Most importantly, our youngest students begin to learn about God’s love and the importance of caring for one another.

Half-day and full-day programs are available for both Pre-K 3 and PreK 4. IHM also offers before school care, an extended day program, and a variety of after-school clubs and activities.

Kiddie Academy of White Plains has been a trusted leader in early childhood education in Westchester since 2021 and is proudly accredited by NAEYC. Their innovative Life Essentials® curriculum nurtures the whole child through six key areas: Character, Confidence, Curiosity, Connection, Critical Thinking, and Creative Expression. Every day is an adventure in engaging classrooms, with two indoor playrooms and private outdoor spaces designed for exploration and fun. Children enjoy enriching programs that spark curiosity, build friendships, and foster a lifelong love of learning—along with nutritious meals prepared fresh on-site. More than a school, it’s a caring community dedicated to helping children thrive and prepare for success in school and beyond. Learn more and enroll today!

Liberty Montessori Schools

Lightbridge Academy

155 Beechmont Drive, New Rochelle 914-636-3461 631 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-777-1382 libertymontessoriusa.com

Lightbridge Academy of Scarsdale 529 Central Park Ave, Scarsdale, NY 10583 914-653-6719, Scarsdale_NY@lightbridgeacademy.com Lightbridge Academy of Valhalla 26 Legion Drive, Valhalla, NY 10595 914-587-7607, Valhalla_NY@lightbridgeacademy.com lightbridgeacademy.com

Liberty Montessori is a top-rated school in Westchester, NY, offering a calm setting, friendly teachers, and programs that help children grow at their own pace. Liberty has two locations, including a waterfront facility in Mamaroneck and another in a New Rochelle residential neighborhood, and offers toddlers to thirdgraders an updated enrichment curriculum incorporating special music programs. Liberty’s unique curriculum includes special science programs that lead advanced students into a Challenger Program, with special multilingual programs in Chinese, French, German, Spanish, and Japanese. Liberty’s school director, Dr. Jagoda, wanted to create an ideal learning environment for all children just as she did for her own. She operates the two state-of-the-art Montessori facilities that have become a “home away from home” for thousands of students worldwide. A personal tour of the facility will offer even more details about the Liberty Montessori environment.

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Lightbridge Academy of Scarsdale and Valhalla is now enrolling children in Infant, Toddler, Preschool, and Pre-K programs. Built on a foundation of family values called the Circle of Care, Lightbridge emphasizes the education, guidance, and growth of every child.

Serving children ages six weeks through Pre-K, the academy balances nurturing care with a dynamic early childhood curriculum that strengthens skills in reading, writing, science, technology, and math through hands-on, multi-sensory learning and child-led exploration.

Inspired by leaders like Frobel, Gardner, Malaguzzi, Piaget, and Montessori, every classroom features learning centers for teacher-led and independent play. With extended hours, back-up care, and nutritious meals, Lightbridge Academy prepares children to thrive, academically, socially, and emotionally, today and for the future.

Montessori Children’s Center (MCC) 220 Westchester Avenue, West Harrison 914-607-7600, ktkorngold@cmteny.com montessorichildrensctr.com

The Montessori Children’s Center is a top-rated school that attracts families throughout Westchester County for its commitment to highfidelity Montessori and nurturing staff. Offering a year-round, fulltime schedule, MCC is recognized as a leader in both childcare and Montessori education. Joyful, high-quality programs serve children from 3 months to 5 years old. MCC is an American Montessori Society-verified school. Montessori-certified head teachers lead each group with passion, care, and expertise. Director Dr. Korngold received the Montessori Achievement Award (2025) and was recognized by Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Charles Schumer. Under her leadership, MCC has high rates of teacher retention and parent satisfaction, plus decades of experience creating lifelong, confident, and compassionate learners. Call today to schedule a tour for Fall 2026 openings.

Montessori School of Pelham Manor 1415 Pelhamdale Avenue, Pelham 914-738-1127, pelhammontessori@gmail.com montessori school pelhamamny.com

Montessori School of Pelham works to build a sense of community, collegiality, and a learning environment where the children engage in social skills, practical life skills, literacy, math, art, science, music, yoga, and creative thinking. Following the principles of Maria Montessori, children get personalized attention and develop at their own pace in small class sizes at the Montessori School of Pelham Manor.

Children become competent, confident, content and at peace with themselves and the world in a nurturing atmosphere where children develop independence, self-esteem and a love of learning. Registration for 2024-25 (toddler class, ages 2-3; Montessori classes, ages 3-6).

Please call for a personal tour.

Vivvi Multiple campuses around NYC and Westchester enrollment@vivvi.co vivvi.com

Vivvi offers an exceptional preschool experience for children ages 0–5, designed for today’s families with flexibility, safety, and quality at its core. Vivvi’s full-day, year-round program provides dependable coverage for working parents, with enriching experiences like art, chess, and movement thoughtfully built into the day—no need for additional programs or wraparound care. The inquiry-based curriculum is inspired by children’s interests and aligned to state and national standards, ensuring strong preparation for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and beyond. Through a balance of skill-based instruction, independent and group play, and outdoor time, children build academic foundations alongside curiosity and confidence. All of this takes place in beautiful, thoughtfully designed environments with best-in-class health and safety practices.

World Cup Nursery School & Kindergarten 160 Joan Corwin Way, Chappaqua, NY 10514 914-238-9267, mail@worldcupschools.com worldcupnurseryschool.com

World Cup Nursery School & Kindergarten is a caring, vibrant school where young children learn, grow, and thrive. In a safe and welcoming environment, experienced teachers nurture each child’s academic, social, and emotional development. Through play-based learning, hands-on activities, and strong early literacy and numeracy programs, children build confidence, creativity, and independence.

Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and meaningful connections. With engaging classrooms and enriching activities, students develop a lifelong love of learning. It’s the perfect place to give your child a joyful, strong start.

May 2026 | Westchester Family

33

BABY

Baby Names Inspired by Astrology

BY SOE KABBABE

W

hether you’re a devoted horoscope reader or simply love the personality clues astrology offers, choosing a zodiac baby name adds a little cosmic magic to your child’s story. From fiery Aries leaders to dreamy Pisces creatives, every sun sign carries distinct traits—and we’ve paired each with names that reflect its energy, symbolism, and celestial roots.

Aries-Inspired Baby Names People under the sign of Aries are bold, fearless, energetic, and natural leaders.

Aries babies are known for their confidence, courage, and trailblazing spirit. They tend to be independent, passionate, and never afraid to take the lead.

• Blaze • Scarlett • Phoenix • Leo • Ember

Taurus-Inspired Baby Names Rounded, loyal, sensory-loving, and strong-

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willed people. Taurus babies often crave comfort and stability. They’re dependable, affectionate, and deeply connected to beauty, nature, and the senses.

• Flora • Jasper • Ivy • Rowan • Rose

Gemini-Inspired Baby Names Curious, social, expressive, and quickwitted—Gemini babies are chatterboxes in the making. They’re bright, adaptable, and naturally communicative, often showing early signs of creativity and curiosity.

• Aria • Felix • Luna • Milo • Nova

Cancer-Inspired Baby Names They’re nurturing, intuitive, protective, and emotional. Cancer babies are sensitive souls with big hearts. Deeply attached to family, they often show strong empathy and

imagination from a young age.

• Pearl • River • Julian • Marina • Noah

Leo-Inspired Baby Names Confident, creative, magnetic, and warm— Leo people love the spotlight, and they tend to shine naturally. They’re expressive, dramatic (in the best way), and often command attention with their charm and bold personalities.

• Aurora • Atlas • Soleil • Zara • Maximus

Virgo-Inspired Baby Names Virgo babies tend to be observant and quietly intelligent. They often show early independence and a love for routines, as a result, they’re very detail-oriented, analytical, and organized.

• Clara

• Orion • Seraphina

• Theo • Eliza • Felix • Wren

Libra-Inspired Baby Names Libra babies thrive on harmony. They’re social, graceful, and often drawn to beauty, art, and fairness. Their personalities are often balanced—very charming, yet diplomatic and tactful.

• Valentina • Juliet • Adrian • Celeste • Roman

Scorpio-Inspired Baby Names One of the most determined, passionate, and intense people. Scorpio babies may be quiet observers at first, but they feel everything deeply. They’re strong-willed, magnetic, and fiercely loyal.

• Raven • Sebastian • Lilith

Sagittarius-Inspired Baby Names Adventurous, optimistic, independent, and philosophical—that’s Saggy in a nutshell!

Sagittarius babies are explorers at heart.

Curious and spirited, they often grow into big thinkers and free spirits.

• Atlas • Skye • Sage • Archer • Juno

Aquarius-Inspired Baby Names Aquarius babies are original thinkers and tend to be innovative, independent, visionary, and unique in their ideas and way of living.

They often grow into creative, humanitarianminded individuals who march to their own beat.

• Indigo • Jasper • Lyra • Atlas • Winter

Capricorn-Inspired Baby Names Capricorn babies can seem wise beyond their years. They’re determined, practical, and quietly driven. Ambitious, responsible, mature, and steady, Cappy kiddos are the epitome of old souls in a kid’s body!

Pisces-Inspired Baby Names Pisces babies are imaginative and emotionally aware. They’re often creative spirits with strong empathy and gentle personalities. A mix of compassionate, artistic, and intuitive traits—unlike Cancer, who’s very emotional; Pisces is more about the inner mind, the potential or idea of, and dreams.

• August • Eleanor • Everett • Margot • Holden

• Ocean • Iris • Caspian • Willow • Aurora

Give Your Child the Best in Early Childhood Education

MONTESSORI SCHOOL in PELHAM A Tradition of Excellence since 1973

MONTESSORI - AGES 3-6 • TODDLERS - AGES 2-3

Register Now for 2026/2027 Call for Open House Dates

1415 Pelhamdale Ave. (at Shore Rd.) • Pelham, NY

914.738.1127 • montessorischoolpelhamny.com May 2026 | Westchester Family

35

DATING

7 of the Best Dating Apps for Single Parents and where to connect IRL, too

BY SOE KABBABE

D

ating as a single parent can feel like navigating two full-time jobs at once.

Between school pickups, work schedules, and bedtime routines, finding time—and the right people—to date isn’t always easy.

That’s where niche dating apps and platforms come in. Many single moms and dads prefer apps designed specifically for people raising kids. These communities prioritize meaningful relationships, flexible schedules, and people who understand the realities of parenting.

Today there are more dating apps for single parents than ever, including platforms that focus on serious relationships, parenting lifestyles, and even building community among solo parents.

Here’s a guide to the best dating apps for single parents, including platforms built just for parents and niche options that align with different lifestyles, plus where to meet people in real life if swiping isn’t your thing—because it’s never too late to give love another chance!

Dating Apps for Single Parents: Built Specifically with Parents in Mind Stir (stir.com) Launched by Match Group, Stir is one of the fastest-growing dating apps built specifically for single parents. Because everyone on the app is either a parent or open to dating one— and filters and profile prompts are based on parenting status, family goals, and parenting life—conversations often start from a place of shared understanding.

PlayDate (goplaydate.com) Created by a single mom, PlayDate focuses on helping parents find meaningful relationships while balancing real-life logistics, like integration with childcare planning tools.

The app’s biggest strength is how it reflects real parenting life—schedules, babysitting, and all.

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Even (avail Google apps) Even is a newer dating platform designed specifically for single parents looking for relationships with others in similar life stages.

The app emphasizes on compatibility and shared values; thoughtful matching, and a slower, more intentional dating experience Dating Apps for Single Parents with Specific Lifestyles Some single parents want to date within a specific lifestyle—whether that’s family goals, career alignment, or parenting philosophy.

Frolo (frolo.com) Frolo blends single parent community, parenting styles, and dating into one platform.

It’s especially helpful for parents who want to build connections before jumping into dating. heybaby (avail Apple apps) Heybaby is designed for people who want kids or already have them. Family life isn’t an afterthought—it’s central to the app. Which is why matches are done based on desire for children while featuring prompts about parenting approaches and values.

EliteSingles (elitesingles.com) EliteSingles caters to professionals, including many single parents balancing jobs and family. Ideal for those parents who are looking for a full-committed, long-term relationship—users are typically over 30 and the algorithm matches based on personality

and career or family goals.

Dating Apps for Single Parents of Special Needs Kids Special Hearts (facebook.com/ special.hearts) Special Hearts is one of the only dating apps specifically designed for people with disabilities and parents of children with special needs. It’s inclusive of caregivers and special needs families, while focusing on empathy and understanding. It’s a very niche app, but the highly aligned user base makes it worth it!

Frolo (frolo.com) Frolo also works well for parents of children with special needs because of its strong community features. For families with special needs kiddos, it builds support systems first while connecting with other parents—this allows them to go slow and transition into dating without rushing.

Skip the Apps: In-Person Meetups for Single Parents in NYC Not every single parent wants to swipe. In New York City, many moms and dads are skipping dating apps altogether and choosing something that feels more natural: meeting in real life.

From stroller walks in Central Park to casual coffee meetups in Brooklyn, NYC offers a strong network of low-pressure spaces where single parents connect organically— often starting as friendships that move into something more.

Local Parenting Communities That Host Real-Life Meetups Single Parent Resource CenterMidtown East, (singleparentusa.com) 228 E 45th St, 5th Floor

This long-standing NYC organization offers support services, workshops, and community-building opportunities for single parents.

You can find parenting workshops and support groups; occasional in-person gatherings and networking events, and even resources for navigating single parent life in NYC. Meetup Groups for Single Parents (meetup.com/singleparent) Meetup is the ultimate place to find local gatherings near you. Regardless of what you’re looking for, there’s always a group waiting for you!

Some events for single parents may include Central Park walks; Brooklyn Bridge Park outings; 80s or 90s Dance Nights, weekend brunch groups, and even coffee or tea over Zoom.

These options help create repeat interactions— and that’s often where connection builds naturally. It focuses on real conversation and chemistry without the pressure of apps.

FAQs: Dating apps for single parents Are dating apps safe for single parents?

They can be as long as you follow these recommendations: don’t share your child’s personal information; keep routines and locations private; use reputable platforms with verified ID profiles, if possible. And take your time before meeting! Never rush a connection, especially if it seems too good to be true.

When should you introduce a partner to your kids?

Wait until the relationship is stable and serious. There’s no need to make it a priority until you fully know someone’s intentions.

If Apps and Meetups Aren’t Your Thing, NYC Is Your Playground…

Literally!

Here’s the truth: in New York City, you don’t actually need an app—or even a formal meetup—to meet someone. Between parks, schools, classes, and neighborhood routines, you’re already surrounded by people living

How can single parents protect themselves and their kids while on dating apps?

Meet in public the first few times and make sure to tell a friend about your plans. Be upfront about having children, but never reveal more than necessary (this includes your kiddos’ names, ages, schools, routines, where do you live, etc. Many single parents also prefer to wait to exchange phone numbers or social media channels, too.). And lastly, look for partners who respect your priorities, boundaries, and listen to your instincts—you can never be too careful!

lives that look like yours.

For single parents, that means seeing the same faces regularly; building familiarity over time; forming friendships or connections that can evolve naturally.

Sometimes, the best relationships start with something simple—like a conversation at the playground you go to every week.

Opening a World of Opportunities

a Book tour ate priv day! to

Bilingual Pre-K to grade 12 program with emphasis on sciences and languages Nature-based early childhood education on a 20-acre green campus in Westchester Dual diploma: High School and German International Abitur No German required for Pre-K and Kindergarten

Their world is waiting.

gisny.org May 2026 | Westchester Family

37

WESTCHESTER FAMILY PARTNER

Playing Marbles with Diamonds Carith’s Mission to Protect the Priceless Legacy of Catholic Healthcare

S

ierra Leone is a nation of stark contrasts. Its land, rich with untapped mineral wealth, is home to people whose daily lives are defined by abject poverty. According to global estimates, Sierra Leone’s per capita income is one of the lowest in the world. Yet beneath the dusty roads and crumbling infrastructure lies a wealth that has shaped empires.

In a small village on the outskirts of Freetown; the capital city of Sierra Leone , a group of seven children gathered as they did every afternoon. Their game was simple: a lively competition of marbles played not with glass or clay spheres, but with small, jagged stones plucked from the roadside. They were stones, rough and gray, scavenged from the cracked roads and overgrown fields. Laughter rang out as they crouched low and flicked their prized “marbles” across the dirt.

One day, a Westerner, an experienced gem trader visiting on a humanitarian mission, happened to pass by. Something caught his trained eye. Kneeling down, he studied the children’s stones more closely. What they saw as ordinary pebbles, he instantly recognized as something extraordinary; raw, uncut diamonds, camouflaged by the grit and grime of the street.

Calmly, he offered each child $100 in exchange for their handful of “marbles.”

For these children, $100 was a lifetime of riches. The man walked away with what would later appraise for millions of dollars in the renowned Hatton Garden diamond district in London.

The Matrix This same principle lies at the heart of Carith’s mission. In today’s volatile healthcare landscape, the real estate and infrastructure of Catholic healthcare institutions built with love, faith, and sacrifice over generations are often viewed by the world as little more than aging assets or liabilities.

To the untrained eye, they may seem like relics of a bygone era. But to those who understand their worth, these facilities are living legacies: places where dignity,

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Trish Gathers and Bishop Richard Henning; Archbishop of Boston compassion, and care for the underserved thrive. Carith was founded to ensure that these sacred spaces are never mistaken for “common stones.”

Carith Ministries exists to safeguard these treasures—not just the buildings, but the communities, ministries, and values they represent. Our purpose is to steward and sustain these institutions so they remain vibrant beacons of faith-based care for generations to come.

According to Trish Gathers, President and CEO of Carith Ministries, “The most priceless treasures can remain unrecognized and unprotected when we fail to comprehend their true value.” She further emphasized, “In a world that readily overlooks hidden value, Carith Ministries stands steadfast in safeguarding the sacred legacy of Catholic healthcare before it is lost to those who cannot perceive its worth.” Gathers warned, “We risk playing marbles with the legacy of Catholic healthcare. Carith is aware of what we hold, and we recognize its value.”

The most priceless treasures are often erroneously perceived as mere stones until someone takes action to protect them. This is Carith’s calling.

The Resonance The world sees aging buildings, regulatory challenges, and shifting market forces.

They see “stones.” But those of us called to

this mission know better: these sacred facilities are the diamonds of compassionate care, community service, and the Gospel in action— the 7 beatitudes in action.

At the recent Redemptoris Mater Seminary Gala the Archbishop of Boston, Bishop Richard Henning, delivered a compelling address that drew upon Church history to illuminate present challenges and opportunities. Speaking of the fall of Rome and the centuries-long rebuilding led by monastic communities, he reminded attendees that even in ruin, the seeds of renewal are planted by those who choose to build.

“God is never the one who destroys,” he said. “He raises up—always through those who believe, serve, and persevere.”

This vision of restoration deeply aligns with the mission of Carith Ministries.

The Carith Is Calling - Join the Mission At Carith, we believe the time to act is now. We invite partners, benefactors, and communities of faith to stand with us in safeguarding the sacred spaces of Catholic healthcare. Together, we can ensure these beacons of hope and healing are not mistaken for mere “stones,” but recognized, cherished, and preserved as the living diamonds they are. Join us in this mission to protect the legacy, expand the ministry, and secure a future where compassion and care remain at the heart of our shared calling.

The children in Sierre Leone unknowingly held their nation’s fortune in their small hands. Carith will not let us make the same mistake with Catholic healthcare.

We know what we hold. And we know it’s worth it.

The mission-driven footprint of these ministries risks being lost to secular markets and repurposed for uses far removed from their founding vision.

It’s time to recognize, protect, and preserve Catholic healthcare.

Learn more:

www.carmelitesystem.org phone: 518-728-5234 email: pgather@carmelitesystem.org

https://www.cabrini-eldercare.org/ May 2026 | Westchester Family

39

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.

40 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

-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 | Westchester Family

41

SPACES

A Room of Her Own This mother was determined to design a space that meets her child where she is, and where she’s going

BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD

T

here’s a nesting urgency that comes with having kids. First, there is the nursery room or, in some New York living cases, a large nook. Of course, once you have that space and it becomes everything, as your child grows, you also realize that the things they love now will not always be the things they reach for later.

For Brooklyn-based photographer Yumi Matsuo, looking at her three-year-old daughter Saya’s room, she knew she needed to update it. She did not just see a space that needed reimagining. She saw an opportunity to hold onto what she loved while also shaping it with more intention.

So she turned to friends.

Rodrigo Miguel and Matt Little of Knock Twice had long been the people their friend circle relied on for the kind of design questions that do not come with clear answers. How do you make a small space feel considered? How do you adapt a home as a child grows into it? How do you create something functional without losing beauty?

They had been talking about formalizing their studio when Yumi mentioned the room and her timeline. Eight weeks, start to finish.

It would be their first children’s space.

They said yes.

Yumi’s work as a photographer has shaped how she sees space, from light to composition to what feels natural versus what feels placed. Her images have appeared in campaigns for Baby Björn and UPPAbaby, but at home, her focus is closer in.

Saya, at three, is in that fully expressive, deeply specific stage of childhood. She knows what she likes. She moves through a room with intention, even if she does not yet have the language for it. Yumi wanted the room to meet her there. Not overstimulating, not overly precious, but responsive. A space where textures, colors, and objects feel

42 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

approachable, where she could engage at her own pace.

During installation, she explored everything. What stayed with her were the smallest, most tactile things. A bright orange measuring tape that felt endlessly fascinating, and the soft, sculptural pretzel knot pillows made just for her.

Rodrigo’s background in industrial design shapes the way he approaches interiors.

Function comes first, how something works and how it is used, followed closely by feeling.

Aesthetics are what hold those two things together.

In a child’s room, that balance matters even more, especially when the goal is to create something sensory-friendly without losing visual warmth.

The palette draws from Saya’s world: butter yellow, strawberry red, and sky blue.

Colors that could easily feel overly bright are softened and slightly muted, paired with grounding neutrals that give the room a sense of ease.

Materials were chosen with the same care. Soft where they need to be, durable where they should be, and inviting to touch.

The room encourages interaction, but never demands it.

The goal was not to create a kid’s room. It was to create Saya’s room.

What defines the space most is not what was found, but what was made.

An IKEA bench that only fit half the window nook became the starting point.

Instead of replacing it, a second was sourced, both were painted, and custom cushions were sewn, transforming an in-between space into something whole. A place that works now for play, and later, for quiet.

There is a subtle kind of restraint in every decision. Nothing overly loud. Nothing unnecessary.

Yumi’s photographs are framed in a way that lets them belong to the room, not just

NOTES ON DESIGNING FOR CHILDREN On stripes: Before painting stripes, seal the tape with your base wall color. It keeps lines clean and sharp.

On color: Slightly muting tones allows color to exist without overwhelming the senses.

On pattern: Balance is key.

Larger patterns draw attention, while smaller ones soften the overall feel.

On shape: Soft geometry introduces a sense of ease and breaks up the rigidity of a room.

On mixing: Consistency, whether in tone, scale, or color, creates cohesion, even in a layered space.

hang within it. A metal utility door, once something to work around, became a magnetic wall, giving Saya a place to see her own work reflected back to her.

The room holds space for both expression and calm. For movement, and for pause. It is not designed for a fixed version of childhood.

It is designed to shift alongside it.

Some pieces arrived already holding that same philosophy, such as Oeuf, a Brooklynbased brand that has long approached children’s furniture with longevity in mind.

Design that feels at home in a space, not temporary within it. Their pieces, including the small bunny nightlight, bring a simplicity that complements the room’s quieter tone.

Gooselings added another layer of softness. Their bedding, made in Europe from natural materials, leans into comfort in a way that feels understated but essential. It is the kind of bedding that becomes part of a child’s rhythm, familiar, calming, and constant.

Everything else was found slowly or made by hand.

Rodrigo and Matt of Knock Twice helped Yumi transform Saya's small room into the perfect space, where function and feeling meet aesthetics.

Photos by Sidney Scheinberg Photography

May 2026 | Westchester Family

43

calendar

BY SHARA LEVINE

WESTCHESTER

paramounthudsonvalley.com

Spring Crafts at Lyndhurst 2026

BluePath’s 10th Annual Walkathon

WHEN: May 1–3, Daily, 10 am – 5 pm WHERE: Lyndhurst, 635 South Broadway, Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Spend the day shopping while enjoying gourmet specialties, tastings, craft demos and family activities!

WANT TO GO?: $8-$16. artrider.com

WHEN: Saturday, May 9, 10 am – 1:30 pm WHERE: FDR State Park, 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights AGES: All WHAT: This annual event includes a walk, bouncy houses, Bubble Bus, lawn games, DJ John Hannah, On The Spot Photos, food trucks, a sensoryfriendly area, and more.

WANT TO GO?: $30. bluepathservicedogs.org

Family Fun with Animal Friends WHEN: Saturday, May 2, 10 am – 4 pm WHERE: Marriott Westchester, 670 White Plains Road, Tarrytown AGES: 16 and younger WHAT: Being the kids out for sweet farm animals, amazing birds of prey, fascinating reptiles, live storytelling, music, singing and puppets, arts and crafts activities, and more!

WANT TO GO?: Free admission. healspets.org

Kala Samaagam: Community Celebration WHEN: Saturday, May 2, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: ArtsWestchester, 31 Mamaroneck Ave. White Plains AGES: All WHAT: This immersive celebration honors the rich cultural and artistic traditions of South India with music, dance and artistic traditions.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (914) 428–4220, artswestchester.org

The Pout-Pout Fish WHEN: Saturday, May 2, 2 – 3 pm WHERE: Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck AGES: 3 – 8 WHAT: Join Mr. Fish and his

Mother’s Day Tea Party

The Pout-Pout Fish at Emelin Theatre ocean friends in The PoutPout Fish, a delightful musical adventure filled with catchy tunes, colorful puppets, and a heartwarming message.

WANT TO GO?: $32; $27 child.

(914) 698–0098, emelin.org

May The 3rd Be With You WHEN: Sunday, May 3, 9:30 am – 5:30 pm WHERE: Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye AGES: All WHAT: The Force is calling all Younglings, Padawans, Jedi Knights, and Masters for this intergalactic adventure filled with STEM-based fun!

WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $16. (914) 421–5050, discoverwcm.org

Rotary Club of Cortlandt Manor’s Annual Duck Race WHEN: Sunday, May 3, noon

44 NewYorkFamily.com | May 2026

– 4 pm WHERE: Sprout Brook Park, 130 Sprout Brook Road, Cortlandt Manor AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a beautiful day of music, food, fun, games, and a great lineup of vendors and food trucks.

WANT TO GO?: Free admission. cortlandtmanorrotary.com

Laurie Berkner: The Greatest Hits Solo Tour WHEN: Sunday, May 3, 3 – 5 pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: 8 and younger WHAT: Bestselling, awardwinning children’s recording artist Laurie Berkner will have your little ones dancing in the aisles as she performs her beloved songs.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $36.50. (914) 739–0039

WHEN: Saturday, May 9, 1 – 3 pm WHERE: Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse, 44 Wildcliff Road, New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: Join this joyful and elegant parent and child afternoon tea party featuring crafts, photo booth, tea biscuits and more!

WANT TO GO?: $25; $10 child. hpcgreenhouse.org

Muscoot Farm’s Annual Sheep Shearing Event WHEN: Sunday, May 10, 11 am – 3 pm WHERE: Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: This all-day event will feature live sheep shearing, activities, hayrides, vendors, and more!

WANT TO GO?: Free admission. muscootfarm.org

Fiesta!

WHEN: Tuesday, May 12, 10:30 – 11 am WHERE: Bedford Hills Free Library, 26 Main St., Bedford Hills AGES: 4 and younger WHAT: Flor Bromley presents

MAY

calendar

stories, music, movement, and puppetry, in both English and Spanish in this entertaining program that engages young families.

WANT TO GO?: Free.

(914) 666–6472, bedfordhillsfreelibrary.org

Somers Lions Club Carnival WHEN: May 13–17, Daily, 2 – 8 pm WHERE: Fireman’s Field, 258 US-202, Somers AGES: All WHAT: Get ready for five days of family fun with classic carnival rides, a huge obstacle course, and games. Plus, a DJ and local bands, food trucks, and even meet some adorable puppies.

WANT TO GO?: somerslionsclub.org

SPCA Westchester Dog Walk and Pet Fair WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 10 am – 1 pm WHERE: FDR State Park, 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a trail walk with your four-legged best friend, a doggy playground and lure course, canine demos, music, food trucks, fun kid activities, and SPCA adoptables!

WANT TO GO?: $20. spcawestchester.org

Pinkster Jubilee WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 11 am – 5 pm WHERE: Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Ave., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the AfroDutch holiday of Pinkster, a festival of spring, family, culture, and resistance with live music, dance, games, crafts, food, vendors, history, & more!

WANT TO GO?: Free. (914) 965–4027, philipsemanorhall. com

Family ArtsBash Saturday at ArtsWestchester WHEN: Saturday, May 16, noon – 2 pm WHERE: ArtsWestchester, 31 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains AGES: 5 – 12

Yonkers Arts Weekend at the Hudson River Museum WHAT: Kids will explore the gallery with fun, hands-on activities, creating art inspired by a variety of artists.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (914) 428–4220, artswestchester.org

Yonkers Arts Weekend 2026 WHEN: Sunday, May 17, 11 am – 5 pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a full day of family-friendly activities including art workshops, a lively giant “Bubble Extravaganza”, face painting, and more.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (914) 963–4550, hrm.org

White Plains Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony WHEN: Monday, May 25, 10 – 11 am WHERE: Parade begins on Church St., White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Join the community to honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice at this parade featuring community groups, local leaders, schools, and first responders.

WANT TO GO?: Free. cityofwhiteplains.com

Colonial Cider Making WHEN: May 25, 10 am – 12:30

pm & 1 – 2:30 pm.

WHERE: Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Road, Mount Kisco AGES: All WHAT: Use a traditional colonial-style cider press and experience the process firsthand.

WANT TO GO?: $15 ages 3 and older. (914) 666–8448, westmorelandsanctuary.org

The Rock and Roll Playhouse Plays Music of The Beatles + More for Kids WHEN: Saturday, May 30, noon WHERE: Garcia’s at The Capitol Theatre, 149 Westchester Ave., Port Chester AGES: 10 and younger WHAT: Your little ones will Twist and Shout to the sound of The Beatles at this concert for kids.

WANT TO GO?: $17.50 in advance; $20 day of show. (914) 937–4126, thecapitoltheatre.com

The Play Group Theatre’s “Newsies” WHEN: Sunday, May 31, 2 – 4:30 pm & 7 – 9:30 pm.

WHERE: The Play Group Theatre, 1 North Broadway, White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Seize the day and take the family to see the stage

adaptation of this classic musical based on the 1992 film.

WANT TO GO?: $22; $18 senior citizens and children younger than 12. playgroup.org

NYC 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 animation.

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

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

May 2026 | Westchester Family

45

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.

46 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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