Long Island Family - June 2026

JUNE 2026

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

Adventureland

Your Family’s Ticket to Summer Fun Since 1962

ROBLOX EXPLAINED

A Parent’s Guide to the Digital Playground

Summer Starts Here!

Family Road Trips, Summer Experiences, Bucket List, and more

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oasischildren.com June 2026 | Long Island Family

3

CONTENTS

JUNE 2026

NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 44

pg. 26 pg. 17

pg. 16

FEATURES

STORIES & COLUMNS

8 | Tech

6 | Editor’s Letter

What parents should know about Roblox 12 | Cover Adventureland: Your family’s ticket to summer fun since 1962 16 | Books Summer books 20 | Special Needs Roundtable Expert tips for supporting children with special needs and disabilities this summer

14 | Health The importance of heart health for children 26 | Family Fun Summer bucket list for kids and families

pg. 36

FAMILY FUN 44 | Calendar The best family-friendly events happening this month

DIRECTORIES 24 | Specialty Camps Guide

46 | Tweens & Teens As prom prices rise, Uber helps teens get there safely with special FREE rides

28 | Summer Road Trips Memory-making adventures just beyond New York City 36 | Summer Experiences Go extra with these fun destinations and spots

4 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

ON THE COVER Adventureland

Photo: Steve Leung

June 2026 | Long Island Family

5

EDITOR’S NOTE

PUBLISHER: Clifford Luster EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Donna Duarte-Ladd ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Erin Brof ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Stacie Goldberg EDITORIAL LEAD: Jeannine Cintron DEPUTY EDITOR: Danielle Ramos EVENTS EDITOR: Shara Levine ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR: Soe Kabbabe EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Alexa Lutter PARTNERSHIP MANAGERS: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Suzanne Cirigliano, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli MARKETING & STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Rosalia Bobé MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR: Ashley Rivera MARKETING ASSISTANT: Lorens Morris MEDIA SALES ASSISTANT: Ruston Ropac ART DIRECTOR: Leah Mitch WEB DEVELOPER: Sylvan Migdal GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Jeannine Cintron, Mia Salas

CONTACT INFORMATION

Summer Notes Summer is almost here, and we’re locked in.

This is the season of saying yes to one more park visit, more beach days, more ice cream, sprinkler cool-offs, summer experiences (page 36), road trips (page 28), and more.

We’re all in with our June cover (page tk), Adventureland. For so many New York families, Adventureland is more than an amusement park; it’s part of a summer tradition, the kind of place where childhood memories are made and passed down.

This season, the park is expanding that feeling with new rides, drone light shows,

ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554 Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com CIRCULATION: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com

experiences, and more.

Staying with the book theme, we have more summer reading to check out and help the kids beat that out of school slide (page 16).

Roblox. #IFYKYK. We’re sharing what you should know about Roblox (page 8) and how to use it (or not).

However, you do summer, we hope this issue inspires your family to enjoy it.

See you out there!

New York Family

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

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

6 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

ADDRESS: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 15 MetroTech Center, Seventh Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201

PRESIDENT: Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO: Joshua Schneps COO: Clifford Luster

New York Family is the recipient of 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

June 2026 | Long Island Family

7

TECH

What Parents Should Know About Roblox

BY JOEY LABELLE

T

here’s no doubt that most of us are drawn to free things, especially in a time when conversations about how expensive everything has become are constant. But there’s one group among us who have truly mastered the art of finding the cheapest way to have the most fun: kids.

Roblox has been a free source of entertainment for children since its public release in 2006. And even if you’ve never played it yourself, you’ve probably heard of it. Maybe you learned of it from your child, or maybe while standing in Target, trying to decide what to get a niece or nephew for a birthday, and spotting a Robux gift card on the shelf.

There’s a reason for that familiarity.

In 2026 alone, Roblox had more than 140 million daily active players, with roughly 40% under the age of 12. So when it comes to Roblox, your kids, and you, it’s probably best to stay informed.

Roblox stands out from other free competition like Fortnite by offering the

8 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

user large swaths of user-generated content, meaning the stuff your kids will be playing on the platform, in most cases, wasn’t made by the Roblox developers, but instead by an independent creator uploading their games to Roblox. This model has served Roblox well, with some caveats. Roblox creators aren’t all altruistic artists with a passion to make games. Robux, not to be confused with Roblox, is the name of the premium currency on the platform.

Users can spend real-life currency on in-game items like cosmetics for their player character, power-ups, and in-game content, depending on what games they choose to play. Roblox creators take 70% of all Robux earned in their games and cash that out through the Roblox client for real paychecks.

This has led to an ecosystem of heavily and often aggressively monetized experiences flooding the platform. As developers learn to game the system and craft the most attentionretaining, algorithm-friendly games, it’s more important than ever to make sure you know what your kids are playing.

The Good Parts of Roblox Obviously, not everything is black and white; one of Roblox’s most desirable traits is its accessibility. The ability to run Roblox on most platforms, even the lower end of smartphones, laptops, and computers, is a testament to Roblox’s simple aesthetics and focus on being a massively multiplayer online game (MMO). This means your kids can play almost every single game Roblox can throw at them, with all their friends at any time, even if one house has an Xbox, another has a PlayStation, and another has neither.

Some of the best experiences Roblox can offer are its vast libraries of multiplayer party games that, once you get tired of, you’ll have no problem finding thousands of others to try next. Life simulators, restaurant roleplay, hide-and-seek, and thousands of social deduction games are uploaded every day without fail. Should none of those games suit a player’s fancy, there’s not much stopping them from making their own.

Roblox Studio is a free software that lets anyone make their own Roblox games, which can be a serious way for your kid to experiment and play around with game development at an early stage. All the tools are free, and even with official guides from Roblox, there’s a wide world of tutorials online for your kid to explore, helping them make the most of their curiosity.

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TECH

The Reality (What To Look Out For) Roblox Is a Social Game, and Anyone Can Make an Account Roblox has always had a reputation for being aimed at kids, but for better or worse, anyone can make an account on Roblox, join a game, and start sending messages in the public chat.

To combat that, the platform has an impressive chat filter that doesn’t stop at just censoring the average no-no word.

While it’s incredibly important for kids to be taught not to share any personal identifiers online, Roblox goes above and beyond by doing things like making sure messages with profanity are rephrased into safe and civil messages automatically, and blocking inappropriate content, such as discriminatory speech, bullying, extremism, violence, sexual content, etc.

The most important safety feature Roblox has is that it also blocks messages in public chats that contain personal information, as well as chats that instruct users to leave the platform. It’s also important to note that on top of these safety features, you can turn off public and direct chats entirely, which I’ll explain later.

When It Comes to Quality Control, Roblox Games Can Be Quite Lacking As I mentioned before, thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of games get uploaded to Roblox every day, but not all games are created equally. Of course, parents should stay incredibly vigilant about the kinds of games their kids are playing. Roblox uses an algorithm to fill the users’ homepage with games they might be interested in, and as with the YouTube algorithm, one bad apple can ruin the bunch.

Roblox has had a cavalcade of controversies in its time, and while your kid may start the day playing an innocent, if not legally dubious knock-off of popular multiplayer games like Among Us or Peak, they’re only a search or a recommendation away from more adult content.

Robux Is Anything but Fake Money, and Your Kid Might Not Know That The Roblox economy lives and dies by Robux, meaning almost every single game your child will play on Roblox, without fail, will try to sell you something for Robux.

Whether it’s a cool power up to breeze past the difficult part of an obstacle course, a super shiny weapon to use against other players, or exclusive skins and cosmetics to make them stand out amongst their friends, these “free” games will try everything they

10 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

The Roblox economy lives and dies by Robux, meaning almost every single game your child will play on Roblox, without fail, will try to sell you something for Robux. can to keep you playing — to the point where some Roblox games even beg the player not to quit once they pause the game.

This is a concern so deeply rooted in the core of what Roblox is, that I’d recommend sitting your child down to explain to them the dangers of spending real-life money on a game that, especially with Roblox, they might not even be playing in a day, let alone a week, from now.

The Actions You Can Take Right Now (Parental Controls & Safety Features) To make any changes, you’ll need to navigate the Settings menu, the location of which varies on platforms, so look out for a gear symbol in the top-right on desktop, or in the More tab on the app itself (sometimes located on the left side or bottom of the screen), once you’ve found the Settings tab, navigate to the Parental Controls page.

Settings Up Parental Controls (With Two Accounts): Start by creating your own Roblox account and verifying your age- (Parents 18+ can create an account and enable parental controls after completing credit card or ID verification.) Then, by logging into your child’s Roblox account, navigating to Settings, then Parental Controls, you’ll see the option to “Add Parent”. From there, you can put in your email or the email associated with your Roblox account. After accepting the invitation sent to your email, you’ll now have access to your child’s screentime, content restrictions, communication settings, and even spending limits.

How to Turn Off Public Chats & Direct Messaging: In the settings menu, click Privacy and Content Restrictions, then Communication, from there you can select “No One” for both Experience (public) chat and Direct Chat Blocking Mature (13+ – 17+) Games: On

the Parental Controls page, go to Content Restrictions, then Content Maturity. From here, you can adjust the settings to your liking. This feature is good for greatly reducing the risk of inappropriate games, but it doesn’t mean games don’t slip through the cracks now and then. Always be aware when you can.

Setting Screentime Limits: Under Privacy and Content Restrictions, go to Screen Time, from here you can see how much time the account spends on Roblox.

Clicking on Daily Limit will allow you to set a certain number of hours a day before Roblox locks the account for the day. An important thing to note is that the daily limit also applies to Roblox Studio Being Born Into the Age of Smartphones Doesn’t Necessarily Make Them Smart with Phones: Even in a rapidly changing tech landscape as we find ourselves in now, being born into the era of tablets, smartphones, and AI doesn’t mean your kids will automatically know how to safely use them, keyword- safely.

Here are some quick refreshers to give your kids a lesson in online safety: Never Give Away Personal Information: Age, other social media accounts, addresses, or even what they look like.

Only Play With Friends You Know in Real Life: Far be it from me to tell your kids not to make online friends, but that’s a conversation for you to have with them when they’re older.

If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Is: Everybody googles “Free Robux” at least once in their life. It’s ok, just don’t download random things off the internet.

Everybody’s Asking You for Robux for a Reason: Try to help your kid understand that some games are going to be designed to make them angry or unsatisfied, just so they’ll hand over Robux for a quick solution.

Roblox, in many ways, is like a supermarket.

There are aisles and aisles of bright boxes and sugary cereals that your kid will start begging for, and right down aisle 6 is the alcohol.

Strangers can come up to you and chat, and you can spend a great deal of money without realising.

I’d say if you don’t think your kid can handle going to the grocery store by themselves, a steady, watchful hand might be the only way your kid should be playing Roblox. But hey, going to the grocery store with my Dad rocked when I was young, and there’s no good reason you can’t use that account you made for parental controls to play a few games with your kids, either.

June 2026 | Long Island Family

11

SPONSORED CONTENT

A Summer in Motion at Adventureland

T

here’s a kind of nostalgia for spots that ties families to New York, the kind that not only holds on to memories but also makes room for new ones. For many New York families, Adventureland is that place.

This summer and into the year ahead, Adventureland is leaning more than ever into that feeling of motion, bringing growth and moments as you experience the amusement park in a new way.

With updates that feel less like a departure and more like an expansion of what a day at the park can hold, Adventureland opens up to something bigger. Think summer nights that balance movement with moments to pause and take it all in.

This year, that energy comes to life in drone light shows overhead, designed

by Sky Elements, where the sky itself becomes part of your family’s experience.

Back on the ground, the energy shifts with “Party on the Midway,” a new Saturday night DJ series led by Justin Michaels that brings a more fluid, open-ended rhythm to the park, something that feels as much for the parents as for the kids, where the day doesn’t have to end when the rides slow down.

And still, the familiar anchors remain. Performers like Amazing Louie return with new illusions layered into a show that many families have come to expect as part of their summer ritual. The character visits from Royal Events, and the roaming performances by Team Fun Entertainment continue to create those small, unscripted moments, where your child can stop, watch, and then step a little closer.

And then there are the rides. This year, the park introduces three new attractions, each offering a distinct thrill.

The Wave Twister introduces something entirely new, its motion designed to mirror

12 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

Photos by eBeth Photography

the push and pull of ocean waves, giving older kids a sense of independence and excitement.

The Ram delivers a classic, stomachdropping pendulum swing that never quite loses its appeal.

And for younger riders, or those who prefer something gentler, a double-decker Venetian carousel creates space for a different kind of memory: steady, shared, and just a little timeless.

What emerges is something more layered than a typical day at an amusement park.

Adventureland is a place that welcomes new families and continues to grow alongside the families who return, where a kid’s first ride, a parent’s memory of their own childhood, and the in-between moments of summer all overlap.

Because the best family spaces aren’t static. They evolve, shift, and expand, holding both what was and what’s coming next.

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June 2026 | Long Island Family

13

HEALTH

The Importance of Heart Health for Children From early habits to lifelong wellness

BY JEANNINE CINTRON

A

t my daughter’s last checkup, we learned that she had a slightly elevated cholesterol level. It wasn’t a complete shock, given her disdain for most vegetables and preference for snacktime over mealtime, but it was still concerning. High cholesterol is something adults need to worry about, not 14-year-old teenagers. Or so I thought.

While high cholesterol in children can sometimes be hereditary and not necessarily caused by poor diet and exercise – a condition called Familial hypercholesterolemia – parents still need to take action to keep their children heart healthy from a young age to avoid problems down the line.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends cholesterol screening for all children between 9 and 11 years old, and again between 17 and 21. It could be done much earlier if there is a high risk of cardiovascular disease in the family.

I spoke to Dr. Stephen Cook, Director of Nationwide Children’s Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, to discuss the importance of heart health in kids.

I think a lot of parents feel that conditions like high cholesterol or heart ailments primarily affect adults, leading them to assume kids aren’t at risk for diet-related problems. Why is this a mistake?

Dr. Cook: The precursors or beginning points of heart disease do start in childhood and adolescence. So healthy lifestyles, like eating patterns/foods are very important in childhood but so is regular exercise and physical activity, limiting screen time and sedentary behavior, regular and adequate sleep, not starting or using tobacco or nicotine products, as well as addressing mental health or balancing/reducing stress.

It’s also important for parents to realize that ‘picky eating’ is something we hear about but there is often a parent that can be picky

14 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

about certain foods, and this is also where role modeling comes in.

Are there certain symptoms parents should be on the lookout for if their child doesn’t eat the healthiest diet?

Dr. Cook: There can be symptoms from certain foods, especially in excess, like high fat foods, high sugary foods, and beverages with caffeine, that can make any of us feel sluggish, and can ramp us up but then lead to a crash. There are also gastrointestinal

symptoms like constipation affecting us with more processed foods and less fiber, like fruits and vegetables.

How does a child’s diet when they are young affect their lifelong heart health?

Dr. Cook: A dietary pattern is only one factor that can affect a child’s lifelong heart health, and that is very much modeled by what they are exposed to early in life and what parents and caregivers eat. Processed foods are highly palatable, and children

and teens will be attracted to the sweet and savory flavors to a much greater degree. So, kids and teens will consume these foods in a very mindless manner, because they can be rewarding at times when they are not hungry.

What should parents look for when it comes to heart-healthy snacks?

Dr. Cook: Honestly, it’s very simple.

Fruits, vegetables, and water are the first and easiest choice. The concept of snacking is very much an American phenomenon, and our food industry drives it to the point that we feel it’s a necessity.

What are the risks of energy drinks? Why are they so unsafe for children?

Dr. Cook: Energy drinks are something the American Academy of Pediatrics and other professional nutritional groups have recommended that children and teens should not consume at all. They have added calories as well as high levels of caffeine, usually more caffeine than in a regular cup of coffee. Caffeine can give kids many side effects such as racing heart, anxiety, elevated blood pressure, feeling jittery, but also

Heart-healthy habits According to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, the following dietary steps can be taken to improve heart health in children:

• Choose low-fat or lean cuts of meat and poultry. Include more fish, nuts, seeds, dried beans, and peas.

• Limit saturated fat in your child’s diet and replace it with unsaturated fat, and avoid trans fats altogether.

• Control portion sizes and avoid processed foods.

• Make at least half of your family’s grains whole-grains.

• Limit children’s screen time to 1 to 2 hours daily and encourage activities that need more movement.

• Make half your family’s plate fruits and vegetables.

• Switch to fat-free or low-fat milk products.

• Switch to fruit for dessert.

the crash that comes when the caffeine effect wears off. This can also have a big effect on their ability to fall asleep easily and stay asleep.

Besides eating a healthy diet, what are some other ways parents can ensure their kids are staying heart-healthy?

Dr. Cook: This gets back to the overall health strategies around regular exercise,

• Involve children in the selection and preparation of foods.

• Encourage kids to have 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity on most days.

minimizing screen time, stress management, getting regular and adequate sleep. Also not starting or using tobacco in any form. These are overall family behaviors and should be brought up and discussed with that approach in mind. The goal to have even small changes or adoption of these healthy lifestyle behaviors for the whole family can be a challenge but can also be very rewarding.

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June 2026 | Long Island Family

15

BOOKS

Summer

Books

BY COURTNEY INGALLS AND BELLA KJELLEN

W

hen it comes to summer activities, few things beat the joy of getting lost in a great book. Creating a summer reading list is not only a fun way to pass the time, but it also helps keep kids’ imaginations active and minds sharp, helping to avoid the dreaded summer slide. Whether they’re lounging at home, off to summer camp, or soaking up the sun on vacation, a good book can transport kids to new places, spark their curiosity, and expand their horizons.

With so many wonderful stories and genres available, there’s truly something for every age and reading level. To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of engaging summer reads for every age group—sure to keep kids turning pages all summer long!

EARLY READERS Bye Bye Brain Bully: Knocking Out Self-Doubt by Carin Bail & Carina Hale Trying to tackle life is something that every child has to navigate while growing up. With the help of Captain Communicator and Believer Achiever, Kate tries to fight against the evil brain bully and to be able to use her voice and develop some courage within herself!

Your kids will learn how to combat any mental struggles they have while growing up and how to be confident in themselves! Grades Preschool-3.

Floaty by John Himmelman Mr. Raisin lives alone in a little house, and that is the way he prefers it. One day, he comes across a basket on his front step. When he opens the basket, he doesn’t see anything inside until he looks up to find a floating dog!

This funny story focuses on embracing the unexpected and finding friendships that you didn’t know you needed. Floaty is the perfect first book to show little ones how fun reading can be! Grades Preschool-3.

16 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

The Circles All Around Us

by Brad Montague It’s so important to understand the individuals who make us who we are. From immediate family to classmates and teachers, everybody has their unique group community around them. The Circles All Around Us teaches the story of growth through experiences with others through the concept of kindness and inclusion toward others. Not only does this book teach a great lesson, but is filled with simplistic hand-drawn characters and writing.

Grades K+ Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Millard Bread played a very significant role in the history and lives of Native Americans. Teach your child the history of Native Americans and what concepts, such as fry bread, mean to various peoples. Written by a member of the Seminole Nation, this story was thoughtfully written and is filled with fine details within its beautiful illustrations. This is a book that your kids will continue coming back to and gain a new understanding each time. Grades Preschool-1 Bo’s Magical New Friend (Unicorn Diaries) by Rebecca Elliott This book is aimed at newly independent readers and includes easy-to-read text in order to boost reading confidence! Bo Tinseltail is one of the many unicorns that attend Sparklegrove

School and has the cool power of granting wishes. Something that Bo wants more than anything is to find a best friend. A new unicorn named Sunny Huckleberry comes to the forest, and we are left wondering if Sunny will be the best friend Bo has been looking for.

With this high-interest content and colorful illustrations, kids will not want to put this book down! Grades K-2.

Summer Camp Critter Jitters

by Jory John At this summer camp, all of the animals are nervous about going! The duck is nervous about the other campers finding out he can’t swim, and the sloth is worried that he will have to catch his own lunch. This hilarious book shows how each animal prepares for camp and brings up the question of whether the animals will ever get over their nerves and make new friends. Grades Preschool-3.

Memory Jars by Vera Brosgol After picking berries, Freda is disappointed to hear that she can’t keep her blueberries forever and must wait until next season for more. However, Freda then discovers that her berries can be salvaged through a jam, so she begins saving all of her favorite things and collects an overwhelming amount. Realizing that she can’t save everything, she learns that some things are better saved as memories rather than collected over time! With engaging illustrations, this is a humorous

read that includes a great life lesson as well.

Grades Preschool-3 Knight Owl by Christopher Denise Owl has been determined to become the knight he hatched. With this dream comes his responsibility, so he protects the castle. However, Owl is slightly frightened to see that there is a real intruder present this time!

Read about Owl’s adventure while protecting the castle and becoming a real knight. This story touches on family, cleverness, and bravery, and is a great read for anyone looking to enjoy a light-hearted and optimistic summer read.

Grades Preschool-3 MIDDLE GRADE BOOKS Skandar and The Unicorn Thief

by A.F. Steadman Books are meant to take readers to a whole new world, and this book does exactly that.

Follow Skander through his journey to save the secret Island where unicorns run free.

Not only is this book filled with epic battles, villains, and newfound friendships, but it also takes a spin on traditional fantastical unicorns. This book is perfect for anyone looking for a riveting story to add to their summer fun! Grades 3-7 Restart by Gordon Korman Chase wakes up in the hospital one day to find that he has completely lost all of his memory.

After his first day back at school, he realizes that this restart into who he once was will take a bit more effort than he realized. Chase must figure out who he was and who he will be. Indulge in this mysterious and comical tale that also brings up issues of bullying, choices, identity, and inclusivity. Grades 3-7 Marcus Makes a Movie by Kevin Hart Marcus is stuck in a film class he has no interest in being in, but realizes he can use it as an opportunity to make the cartoon superhero he has been drawing into a movie! This book, written by comedian Kevin Hart, follows Marcus’ journey through his film endeavors and how he and some helpful friends make his imagination become a reality! Hart shows through this book that if you want your dream to come true, you have to work hard to achieve it, which is something that all kids should learn. Grades 3-7.

Northwind by Garry Paulsen Award-winning author Garry Paulsen’s newest book, Northwind, similarly transforms his well-

known book Hatchet from the woods to the ocean. Leif, an orphan living in the coastal wilderness, is forced to take out his boat because a plague has gotten to the fish in the area. Unsure of his next destination, follow along with Leif as he ventures down the water. This book can be a great family read as it’s fitting for all ages (as long as you can handle a big adventure!) and follows a captivating plot. Grades 4-6 A Crooked Kind of Perfect

by Linda Urban Ten-year-old Zoe has always dreamed of becoming a great piano player and is waiting to get her first piano so she can start her lessons. When her dad ends up buying her an organ instead of a piano, Zoe’s hopes and dreams seem farther away than ever. However, when Zoe enters an annual organ competition, she realizes that life can be full of unexpected surprises. This book shows kids that even though we might strive for perfection, sometimes it’s better to be a little off-center.

Grades 5-7.

Jude Banks, Superhero by Ann Hood This book is written by New York Times bestselling author Ann Hood and tackles the hard topics of loss, resilience, and how families start to heal. Jude’s sister Katie was his favorite person in the world. She was the one who always called him “Jude Banks, Superhero” and made him feel special. When his sister unexpectedly passed away, Jude didn’t feel like the superhero he was told he was. While trying to figure out

how life will be without Katie, Jude meets a new friend with similar struggles, and they decide that they will try to tackle their tragedies together. Grades 3-7.

Spy School: The Graphic Novel

by Stuart Gibbs Despite being an awkward middle schooler, Ben Ripley has been placed in the junior CIA academy, which focuses intensely on his scientific capabilities. Follow along as Ben endures hilarious misadventures and realizes that he’s not half bad at being a spy.

Just because it’s a chapter book doesn’t mean that it can’t have pictures! This is a great read for middle schoolers or anyone looking for a fun graphic novel this summer. Try out Spy School: The Graphic Novel this summer for a fun middle school adventure story. Grades 3-7 Turtle Boy by M. Evan Wolkenstein Middle school can be rough, and as kids will be returning to school full time the next school year, this sweet book is a must-read summer read for tweens and even adults. The story is about Will Levine and how the seventh grade is not going so great.A considerable part of this comes from being bullied due to his funnylooking chin. His friendship with the ill older boy RJ changes Will’s life, as their friendship is bonded through turtles and RJ’s guidance and bucket list. This book is a heartfelt comingof-age story, perfect for a summer read for this age group to learn about being brave and getting out of your shell. Grades 5-6.

June 2026 | Long Island Family

17

BOOKS

YOUNG ADULT The Girl Who Drank the Moon

by Kelly Barnhill As the winner of the 2017 Newbery Medal, The Girl Who Drank the Moon does not disappoint.

In the land of the Protectorate, babies are given as offerings to Xan, who they believe to be an evil witch. However, this witch is kind and sends these babies to new families on the other side of the forest, nourishing them with starlight on the way. One day, Xan accidentally gives one baby moonlight instead and decides to raise the child, whose newfound powers will slowly emerge. This story is one of magic and adventure mixed with twists. This enchanting tale is perfect for anyone who loves classic fairy tales. Young Adult.

Lola: A Ghost Story by J. Torres Lola is the Tagalog word for a grandmother who Jesse barely knew but was aware, like most of the family, she had visions and was able to see ghosts. Jesse shares this secret power, and while in the Philippines for Lola’s funeral, Jesse sees ghosts and realizes he must face his demons. The book shares Filipino culture and mythology. While this story is beautiful with many visuals, it does have a bit of darkness, like the grandmother trying to drown Jesse as a baby (it was not what it seemed, as you will find out later) and a drunk adult. Young Adult.

Holding Up the Universe

by Jennifer Niven Sometimes others have the power to change our world. Libby Strout and Jack Masselin, on the outside, are dissimilar. But after the two get tangled up in a high school game that results in them in group counseling and community service, they learn what it means to love someone for who they truly are. The story of Holding Up the Universe is one of friendship, understanding, identity, and strength. This is a great read for young adults and a must-read for those who previously loved The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. Young Adult.

Firekeeper’s Daughter

by Angeline Boulley As an instant New York Times bestseller, Firekeeper’s Daughter has become a must-read for young adults this summer! The book follows Daunis Fontaine, a teenager who lives on the Ojibwe reservation, who put her dreams of getting out of her hometown on hold after a family tragedy struck. After witnessing a shocking murder, Fontaine gets involved with an FBI investigation and finds out that finding the truth behind these crimes is harder than she

18 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

expected. If your kids love crime and mystery books, this will be one your kids will not want to put down this summer. Young Adult.

The Summer I Turned Pretty

by Jenny Han From the author of To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before and the inspiration of a the hit Prime Video series, Jenny Han is also the authur of The Summer I Turned Pretty. This contemporary fiction story is about a girl named Belly. Belly measures her life in the summers. They consist of the beach, ocean air, romance, and most importantly, her closest friends. However, this summer everything changes for the better. This book is a hot pick for the summer, and if you don’t have access (or even if you do) to the beach, this is the perfect summer read to evoke that sweet beach feeling. Young Adult.

Americanized: Rebel Without a Green Card by Sara Saedi This book is based on a true story and is the perfect combination of funny and informative. Readers will be focusing on author and main character Sara Saedi as she tackles the struggles of being an undocumented immigrant in America. In addition to the steady progression towards getting her green card, Saedi is also worried about normal teenage things, such as whether or not she will be able to get a prom date or properly maintain her unibrow. Saedi’s memoir is relatable and is a necessary book to read during today’s climate. Young Adult.

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

This book is the start of the Shadow and Bone trilogy and takes you on an adventure with magical spells and monsters. Alina Starkov is a soldier who has embarked on her first trek into the Shadow Fold. When she and the other soldiers get ambushed, Alina unleashes powerful magic that she didn’t know she had. Now Alina is training with her country’s magical military elite and is uncovering secrets in her past that can put her family and country in danger. Young Adult.

Rule Of Wolves by Leigh Bardugo If Shadow and Bones seems like a book your kids would enjoy, pick up this other magical story written as part of Bardugo’s King of Scars Duology. This book is the second of the duology and follows three people: the demon king preparing for an invasion, the storm witch embracing her powers for her country, and the spy going undercover to seek revenge.

Together, these three are working to fight off the darkness that is taking over their country before it is too late. Young Adults.

All My Rage: A Novel by Sabaa Tahir This book depicts a love story of tragedy and what it means to feel different. Switching between the past and present, this story is both about a Pakistani family who moves to Juniper, California, for a fresh start, as well as the perspective of their son, who is now struggling to hold it all together. This raw novel meshes concepts relating to family relationships and intense love and anger, while also piecing in the importance of forgiveness and redemption.

This book is an emotional one, so get your tissues ready and begin reading! Young Adult.

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19

SPECIAL NEEDS ROUNDTABLE

Expert Tips for Supporting Children With Special Needs and Disabilities This Summer From maintaining routines and finding the right summer programs to supporting sensory needs, social development, and emotional regulation, experts share practical advice to help children with special needs and disabilities feel supported and engaged, and be set up for success throughout the summer months.

William Benson, PsyD

Emily Bushnell

Training Coordinator, ADHD & Behavior Disorders Center Director, Tourette’s and Trichotillomania Program Child Mind Institute

Executive Director Endeavor Therapeutic Horsemanship

If there’s one thing I want people to understand about supporting children with special needs and children with disabilities this summer, it’s that children with special needs deserve the opportunities that all children should have in the summer: fun, enrichment, and meaningful socialization. However, many summer programs and camps are not designed with special needs children in mind. It’s important for parents to identify programs in which their children can be challenged but successful. Don’t try to hide the difficulties your child has so that you can get them into a mainstream program, and at the same time, don’t keep them isolated because you’re nervous about how they’ll adapt.

For their part, summer camps should strive to be more inclusive and train their staff to work successfully with neurodiverse children.

20 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

Since founding Endeavor in 2014, we’ve seen firsthand how summer can be a challenging time for families of children with special needs.

Changes in routine, structure, and consistency can be genuinely hard, and parents often carry that weight quietly.

My biggest piece of advice is to be proactive. Seek out programs that maintain structure while still feeling fun and enriching for your child.

At Endeavor, we pride ourselves on providing an enriching environment that prioritizes safety and inclusivity because every child deserves a place where they can truly thrive.

Tara Fappiano

Jason Harr

Advocate, Mediator, and Litigator tarafappiano.com

Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council, SIDDC Executive Board, Chair

The number one thing to remember is that students’ needs and challenges do not disappear just because they are on summer break. In some cases, those challenges are amplified because they are not in a structured environment, with services and other supports also on a break.

If you are in a role where you are working with or caring for a student with disabilities, your proactive approach to understanding the student’s needs and how you can adapt to support that student will mean everything for that child and their family.

One thing I want people to understand about supporting children with disabilities during the summer is that support should not pause just because the school year ends. Children with special needs require consistency in services, structure, and opportunities year-round. Summer should be viewed as a continuation of growth, not a gap in supports.

It’s essential that parents and caregivers seek out programs that truly meet their child’s individual needs, using a person-centered approach. Every child is different, and summer programming should reflect their strengths, interests, and level of independence.

For children who are more independent, inclusive programs can be a valuable option, offering opportunities to engage with peers in meaningful, age-appropriate ways while still receiving the supports they need.

Summer programs are especially critical because they provide children with disabilities access to social, recreational, and community-based experiences that may not always fit into the school day. These experiences help build friendships, confidence, and life skills, allowing children not just to be supported, but to thrive.

Jon Feingold, Ph.D. Executive Director The Hagedorn Little Village School

The simple answer to this question is that there is no simple answer.

Children with special needs are as diverse as any other population group.

Their educational, therapeutic, social, and emotional needs are varied. There are a myriad of factors that may influence their summer needs, including age, developmental level, physical development, attention span, frustration tolerance, etc.

Of course, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will prescribe the details of a summer program (class size, types of therapies and frequency/duration, educational goals, location of services, etc.), all with the goal of preventing “substantial regression” during the summer months. However, a child’s summer needs do not begin and end with this document.

In over 30 years as a clinical and school psychologist in both a special needs school (The Hagedorn Little Village School) and as a private clinician, some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned have come from the parents that I’ve had the privilege to counsel. With that in mind, the one thing that I would want to impart to parents is to trust your instincts when it comes to your own children.

We “experts” may know a great deal about the educational and therapeutic needs of our students, but you are the experts when it comes to the needs of your family.

Never underestimate the importance of taking time to simply enjoy your children. This may mean planning a family vacation, taking a day off from work to take them to the beach, or finding time to run, laugh, and play with them. The bottom line is that childhood goes by far too fast. Taking the time to enjoy and connect with your children this summer is just as valuable as their IEP goals.

Jennifer Larsen Associate Executive Director On Your Mark, Inc.

Summertime is a break to unwind from the school year and relax, but for children with special needs, it’s also a chance for ongoing development and enrichment. Various opportunities, such as summer camps and day trips, promote physical fitness as well as socialization, whereas getting together with friends and family at home or in the community makes memories for all. Parents can work to establish traditions for their loved ones, such as annual barbecues and picnics or family kickball games!

Supporting children with special needs throughout the summer can be achieved by establishing routines for the whole family to follow. This can help to limit stress related to making plans and prevent the dreaded saying: “I’m bored.”

At the end of the day, finding a balance between productivity and relaxation is a worthwhile goal for all, and by taking the time to assess one’s health and safety needs as related to summer hazards such as increased heat exposure and water dangers, we can provide an unforgettable summertime experience for all children.

June 2026 | Long Island Family

21

SPECIAL NEEDS ROUNDTABLE

Liza Kaplan Montanino

Lakshmi Rao Sankar

Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant Certified Special Needs Sleep Consultant Certified Autism & Anxiety Sleep Specialist Lactation Educator Founder and Owner, Rock-a-Bye-Baby Sleep

Executive Director, CrimsonRise

For many neurotypical children, summer equals later bedtimes, more screen time, looser schedules, flexible boundaries, and more.

For neurodivergent and special needs kiddos, these same freedoms can pose a real threat to the nervous system.

Whether it’s transitioning out of the school year, suspending familiar routines, adjusting to different daily activities, or traveling away from home, summer schedules are often a source of stress, anxiety, and overstimulation for neurodivergent brains (and bodies) that thrive on structure and feel unmoored by change.

For my 8-year-old with AuDHD, GAD, ARFID, and sensory processing challenges, the pool is our safe space! The water provides continuous, calming deep pressure and tactile input that helps manage both sensory-seeking and sensory-avoidant behaviors, and the resistance of moving through the water offers vestibular input and improves body awareness as well. This not only leads to a more regulated nervous system overall, but a great night of sleep, too!

As a mom who is also a pediatric and special needs sleep consultant, I love knowing that by meeting the body’s needs from the inside out, we can set up a child to feel better in their own skin, during the day and at night.

Summer is usually associated with fun, informal outings, plenty of social downtime, and is valued by neurotypical people. Neurodivergent people may find that summer heat and schedules add another layer to their sensory challenges.

For autistic and ADHD children, heat isn’t just uncomfortable; it can trigger genuine sensory overload. Atypical sensory processing means that for hypersensitive children, high temperatures can feel like unbearable, inescapable pressure, leading to heightened irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and, in some cases, meltdowns or shutdowns. Body science matters, too. Heat causes dehydration and fatigue, which directly amplify neurodivergent symptoms, making focus harder for children with ADHD and increasing panic responses in those with anxiety.

Add the loss of school routine and the surge in unstructured social expectations that summer brings, and you have multiple compounding stressors hitting at once.

The practical guidance from Susanne Cannella, Alliance Director at CrimsonRise, is straightforward: keep your child hydrated, dress them in lightweight, breathable clothing, and identify cool, quiet retreat spaces in advance. When usual coping strategies are harder to access while you are out and about, plan ahead for alternatives.

Most importantly, protect as much routine as possible during school breaks. A predictable summer, even a gently structured one, goes a long way toward keeping your child regulated, comfortable, and able to enjoy the season.

Amy C. O’Hara Partner, Littman Krooks LLP littmankrooks.com

Dr. Dana R. Smith, DPT, SIPT

If there’s one thing I want families to understand, it’s that supporting a child with special needs isn’t just about what happens today, it’s about securing their future with intention and precision. As a special needs planning attorney, I routinely see well-meaning families overlook the legal and financial framework that ultimately determines long-term stability for their children. Summer often brings a change of pace, and if you have not yet put a plan in place, make it a priority to get this done over the coming months. Proper estate planning is essential. This means establishing a special needs trust for the child, aligning beneficiary designations and assets to avoid disqualifying the child from critical public benefits, and clearly documenting who will step in as caregiver when you no longer can. Just as important, these plans are not static.

Laws change, benefits evolve, and family circumstances shift. Reviewing and updating your plan every three to five years ensures it continues to reflect your child’s needs and your wishes. Thoughtful planning today creates continuity, protection, and peace of mind for tomorrow.

Owner and Doctor of Physical Therapy Westchester Physical Therapy, PLLC

22 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

If there is one thing I want families to understand, it is that summer is not a break from progress. It is often the greatest opportunity for it. With less academic pressure and more flexible schedules, summer is the ideal time to take full advantage of skilled pediatric therapy. Preparing the body for learning is not separate from academic success, rather it is the foundation of it. Research consistently shows that improvements in physical health, sensory processing, and motor development directly correlate with a child’s ability to learn and thrive in the classroom.

I also urge families to do their due diligence when selecting a provider. Not all therapists are alike. Experience and specialization matter enormously, particularly when your child presents with complex or overlapping challenges. Seek out clinicians who have a proven track record and good reviews with your child’s specific needs. Don’t let summer pass without exploring what’s possible.

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June 2026 | Long Island Family

23

SPECIALTY CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Camp Helen Keller LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd, Brookville, NY 11548 LMeade@helenkeller.org 718-522-2122 ext. 2295 helenkeller.org/ camphelenkeller Camp Helen Keller is a free five-week day camp for children ages 4 to 15 who are blind or have low vision.

Operated by Helen Keller Services for the Blind since 1953, the program is held at LIU Post in Brookville, NY. Campers participate in adaptive sports, swimming, arts, music, STEM, and field trips with a 3:1 staffto-camper ratio. Door-todoor bus transportation is provided across Long Island and parts of Queens.

Camp Sloane YMCA 124 Indian Mountain Road Lakeville, CT 06039 rhino@campsloane.org 860-435-2557 campsloane.org

Camp Sloane is everything that kids are looking for in a summer camp. Days at Camp Sloane are filled with fun activities and great new friends, while the nights come alive with fireside stories, lightning bugs and s’mores. Campers don’t just ‘go to camp’ when they spend their summer at Sloane. They embark on a journey that will shape memories to last a lifetime - sleepaway camp should always be this good!

Countryside Montessori School 354 Lakeville Rd, Great Neck csmontessori@cmsgn.com 516-406-3623 cmsgn.com Countryside Montessori School offers Summer Camp for children 18 months to 6 years old. An 8-week program offers flexibility in the number of weeks and offers half-day and full-day

options. Toddlers enjoy their spacious playground in the mornings and nap in the afternoon. For their primary children, they offer academics (similar to the school year) in the morning and afternoon play. Please be sure to email for more details.

DNA Learning Center Science Summer Camps 334 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor, NY Cold Spring Harbor, NY/ Brooklyn, NY / Westchester, NY / Wayne, NJ dnalc-camps@cshl.edu 516-367-5170 summercamps.dnalc.org Join the DNA Learning Center this summer for an immersive, five-day science experience and unravel the mysteries of life itself.

Budding scientists entering 6th–12th grade will build realworld lab skills, boost their college profiles, and have a

1998

Now Registering for Camp

24 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

blast exploring the frontiers of biology. Their week-long day camps run from June 29 to September 4, 2026, and are available at four core locations across NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and Wayne, New Jersey.

Future Stars 10 Long Island Locations admin@fscamps.com 631-769-CAMP fscamps.com For over 45 years, Future Stars Summer Camps has helped campers build skills, confidence, and lasting memories. With 30+ programs, children can pursue favorite activities or explore new interests in a safe, ACAaccredited environment led by professional educators. Flexible weekly scheduling and regular family communication make planning easy. With 11 locations across Long

Island, the Hamptons, and Westchester, Future Stars offers specialty programs including Adventure, Art, Dance, Drama, Horseback Riding, Magic, Rising Stars, plus a wide variety of Sports and STEAM camps.

Indian Island Jr Golf Camp 661 Riverside Dr. Riverhead, NY 11901 indianislandjrgolf@gmail.com 631-727-7776 indianislandcountryclub.com/ registration-form Located on the Peconic Bay in Riverhead, Indian Island Country Club offers Jr. Golf camp for children ages 7-15.

With PGA pros specializing in putting, driving, chipping, and bunker campers learn the fundamentals of golf while having fun! With daily competitions, campers are winning prizes and learning golf. Camper tuition includes club rentals, Jr golf shirt,

Jr golf hat, daily lunch, golf instruction, and tons of fun!

Open to the public!

Sensory Island 897 The Arches Circle, Tanger Outlets at Deer Park, Deer Park 11729 admin@sensoryisland.com 631-355-6425 sensoryisland.com Sensory Island Day Camp is a sensory-friendly, skill-building summer experience for children ages 3 and up — welcoming neurodivergent, sensorysensitive, and neurotypical kids alike. With themed camp days, small group sizes, and trained, caring staff, every child thrives in an inclusive, play-based environment. Half-day and full-day options available, with two summer sessions: July 6–31 and August 3–28, 2026. Transportation/busing available. Visit sensoryisland. com to register!

June 2026 | Long Island Family

25

FAMILY FUN

Bucket List Summer

BY STACEY WALLENSTEIN & SHARA LEVINE

1. Long Island beaches have lots to offer besides the beautiful sand and gorgeous ocean! Jones Beach State Park attracts sun-seekers with opportunities for surfing, biking, fishing, pickleball courts, playgrounds, miniature golf, and the delicious restaurant Gatsby on the Ocean.

Families looking for even more coastal fun can explore Public Beaches on Long Island to discover kid-friendly shorelines and beach activities all across the state.

2. Local town beaches have tons to offer, too! The Towns of Oyster Bay and Babylon offer great splash parks on their bays, nightly live music, and various waterfront dining options.

3. Looking for a different beach experience?

At Baiting Hollow’s Reeves Beach, you’ll find the washed-up Friar’s Head shipwreck believed to be from World War I. Here’s a tip: the best time to see it is at low tide.

4. Fire Island is a fan favorite. You can get there by ferry or on foot. The leisurely walk starts at Robert Moses State Park Field 5 and hits its midway point at the famous lighthouse.

26 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

5. Local town park pools* are a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. We love visiting different ones to mix things up. Some pools – like Wantagh Park or Deer Park’s Geiger Park have water slides and splash parks. Also, keep your eyes peeled for Little Free Libraries. *Be sure to check residential restrictions in advance.

legendary airpower and ground vehicles up close and in the air.

6. Visit the myriad of wineries on Long Island. Many, like the Corey Creek Tap Room, offer music throughout the season.

11. For geology fans, Glen Cove’s Garvies Point Museum & Preserve offers excellent Long Island and Native American history, plus a huge display of gems and minerals.

7. The North Fork’s Greenport is a great town. It’s filled with cute shops, dockside dining, a newly restored antique carousel, and rides on a miniature railroad.

8. With summer’s fickle weather, it’s good to have some indoor options up your sleeve.

You can’t go wrong visiting Garden City’s Museum Row, Long Island Children’s Museum, Nassau County Firefighters Museum, and Cradle of Aviation Museum.

9. Additionally, Long Island has great niche museums. For car and airplane buffs, check out Stony Brook’s Long Island Museum, which has carriages from the 1700s until modern times, and Farmingdale’s American AirPower Museum to see our nation’s

10. If your kids like museums with interactive play spaces, check out Cold Spring Harbor’s Whaling Museum and Bridgehampton’s Children’s Museum of the East End.

12. West Sayville’s LT Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum is super cool for armed service buffs, as is Old Bethpage’s Museum of American Armor (filled with working military vehicles). You can even participate in their World War II re-enactment.

13. If you love learning about animals, check out Bridgehampton’s South Fork Natural History Museum & Nature Center, Smithtown’s Sweetbriar Nature Center, Quogue Wildlife Refuge, or the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery.

14. All presidential buffs must visit President Theodore Roosevelt’s former home, Oyster Bay’s Sagamore Hill. After completing a fun

great playground (and ducks!).

16. Long Island has tons of incredible playgrounds. Cedarhurst’s Andrew J. Parise Park, Westbury’s Let All The Children Play Accessible Playground in Eisenhower Park, and the recently opened Mr. B’s Playground in Rockville Centre’s Veterans Park.

17. Check out one of Long Island’s gardens for a relaxing escape filled with beautiful flowers, trickling water, and ample fields for endless play. Farmingdale’s Robert F. Ench Teaching Gardens, Floral Park’s Centennial Gardens and Bird Sanctuary, and Old Westbury Gardens are great options. scavenger hunt, your kids can even earn a Junior Ranger badge!

15. The triple threat of Gold Coast mansion turned art museum, beautiful park, and sculpture garden can be found at both Huntington’s Heckscher Park and Roslyn Harbor’s Nassau County Museum of Art. Both offer creative family programs, and Heckscher Park has a

18. Long Island offers many unique hikes in preserves, county parks, and national parks!

Smithtown’s Blydenburgh County Park, Massapequa Preserve, Merrick’s Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve, and walking to the very end of the North Fork at Orient Point County Park are good choices.

19. You can’t call yourself a Long Islander

unless you have a photo with Flanders’ famous historic Big Duck. Created in 1931 for duck farmer Martin Maurer, it’s not only a Long Island staple but also launched a new architectural style called “duck” architecture (coined by architects Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown in 1968).

20. Don’t forget about public libraries!

They’re filled with children’s areas, outdoor play spaces, and, most importantly, air conditioning. Centereach’s Middle County Public Library is one of the best. Also, reserve one of your home library museum passes for complimentary admission to local destinations.

21. Just because school is out, doesn’t mean your kids can’t learn anything. Take them to Stony Brook to visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame and give them a history lesson on the music you grew up listening to, created by Long Island natives, including Billy Joel, KISS, Debbie Gibson, Louis Armstrong, Run-DMC, and so many more.

This summer immerse yourself in the world’s largest Native American Museum and experience the living culture, history, and stories of the Mashantucket Pequot people.

110 PEQUOT TRAIL MASHANTUCKET, CT 860.396.6910 PEQUOTMUSEUM.ORG

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Family Road Trips S ummer vacation? In this economy? With the cost of travel feeling like more of a luxury than your wallet can cover, skip the airport chaos and hit the road for a family-friendly getaway. With so much beauty, history, entertainment, and action in our own backyard, your family won’t have to travel far to find a destination everyone will love. Whether you’re craving some relaxing beach time, an outdoor adventure, or just a change of scenery, these drivable destinations make it easy to plan a road trip to your family’s next adventure.

Dutchess County Fair Get ready for six unforgettable days of fun at the Dutchess County Fair, August 25th through 30th!

Experience the best of summer with thrilling rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and mouthwatering fair food favorites. From exciting concerts and daily shows to livestock competitions and family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stroll through vendor booths filled with unique crafts, home goods, and local specialties, or take in the sights and sounds of one of New York’s most beloved traditions.

Whether it’s your first visit or a yearly tradition, the Dutchess County Fair promises memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss the excitement—mark your calendar and join the fun this August!

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JESSICA HUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Capture the Catskills’ Magic

Bright days, fresh air, and room to roam.

The Great Northern Catskills are where families come to reconnect and experience the beauty of the season. #TheRealCatskills

GreatNorthernCatskills.com 29

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Greene County in the Great Northern Catskills Escape to the Great Northern Catskills for your best family summer yet! Leave the daily routine behind and trade busy sidewalks for mountain trails. The Great Northern Catskills offer the perfect wilderness escape for families looking to reconnect and recharge. Tucked into lush forests and towering peaks just two hours north of NYC, this spectacular region provides endless ways to spark joy and create new traditions.

When the summer heat sets in, treat the kids to splashing good fun at Zoom Flume Water Park. This outdoor water park features thrilling slides, a massive wave pool, and winding lazy rivers. You can spend the entire afternoon riding the Wild River’s rushing rapids. Or simply soak up the sun while the little ones splash in the shallow play areas.

Keep the excitement going with a visit to Bailiwick Animal Park and Riding Stables. Your family will love getting up close with fascinating wildlife and feeding friendly domestic animals. For even more adventure, saddle up for an unforgettable trail ride through scenic landscapes or sign up for horse riding lessons—perfect for both beginners and young adventurers eager to learn. It’s a wonderful, hands-on experience that sparks wonder and gives everyone plenty to talk about on the ride home.

After a full day of exploring, retreat to one of the legendary Catskill all-inclusive family resorts. These welcoming destinations take the stress out of vacation planning. With delicious meals, daily activities, and evening entertainment all rolled into one stay, you can focus entirely on classic family together time. Share stories around a crackling fire pit, enjoy a hearty dinner without worrying about the cooking, and build memories to last a lifetime.

This summer, make the beautiful mountains your playground. Start planning your Great Northern Catskills getaway today and discover a memorable family adventure you will cherish for years to come.

MetroWest Boston Head to MetroWest Boston for a fantastic summer road trip that will keep both the kids and your wallet happy. Start by exploring the formal gardens and wilderness trails at Tower Hill, or Garden in the Woods’ magnificent haven for native plants with fun critters—from turtles to frogs to butterflies—for the kids to find. Then head to Hopkinton or Cochituate State Parks for a great hike or paddle across the lake; both offer onsite rentals of paddleboards, kayaks, sailboats and more.

Start day two exploring Southwick’s Zoo—the largest zoo in New England has rides, activities, and unique behind-the-scenes Animal Encounters with rhinos, sloths, and giraffes. In the afternoon, see what’s ripe for pick-your-own at Nourse Farm or enjoy sensational BBQ and toe-tapping music with a flight of hard cider at Lookout Farm. Then challenge the fam with Level99’s 50+ mental and physical escape rooms, or visit the region’s Cultural Districts for a free summer festival or concert.

On day three, head to charming Hudson to wander the boutiques, then visit the absolutely epic American Heritage Museum’s immersive exhibits with gorgeous antique planes, tanks and cars. Want a little hands-on fun? Take a workshop—for adults or kids!—at Elsie Kaye Glassworks, Duck Soup, Craftworks, Serendipity, Bloom & Grow

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Creative, or Hopkinton Center for the Arts…where you can also catch a show, like “A Play, A Pint & A Pie” in August.

Coming in June? Don’t miss the MetroWest Regional Fan Zones playing FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches on a jumbotron surrounded by a free festival with beer garden, food trucks, vendors, activities and live entertainment. Download the free visitors guide at metrowestvisitors.org/guide for more attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more to plan your adventure.

From mountain lakes to unforgettable moments, make it a memorable summer.

C’mon in, the water’s great. The same goes for everything around Ì° / iÀi½Ã Ì } Ì >Ì `iw ià -Õ iÀ LiÌÌiÀ Ì > > getaway to the Lake George Area in the Adirondacks.

Plan your getaway today at VisitLakeGeorge.com

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Putnam County Nothing says summer like wholesome family fun at a county fair. The annual Putnam County Fair & 4-H Showcase returns Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26, at Veterans Memorial Park in Carmel, NY. Just a short drive away, families can enjoy food trucks, treats, vendors, games, demonstrations, exhibits, inflatables, pony rides, farm animals, live music, and entertainment for all ages. Don’t miss the classic car show, Revolutionary War reenactor demonstration, and the Fair’s first-ever Corgi Race. Admission and parking are free. Spend the day making lasting memories with your kids and grandkids at this beloved summer tradition.

Whether you are a local resident or visiting for a day or more, there is an abundance of adventures and unique experiences, just a short car or train ride away to Putnam County.

Rochester Rediscover summer fun in Rochester, NY, where outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, and rich history come together between the Finger Lakes and Lake Ontario.

Hike scenic trails in Highland Park or catch the stunning 96-foot waterfall at the heart of the city in the Genesee River Gorge. Just an hour south, Letchworth State Park—known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”—offers even more waterfalls and breathtaking overlooks.

Families can cool off at Seabreeze Amusement Park, with classic rides, a waterpark, and lake views, or spark curiosity indoors at The Strong National Museum of Play, home to the world’s largest collection of toys and games. Step into the birthplace of photography at the George Eastman Museum, or travel back in time at Genesee Country Village & Museum, where 19th-century life is brought to life by costumed interpreters.

Discover Rochester’s powerful civil rights legacy at the Susan B. Anthony House and Mt. Hope Cemetery, where Anthony and Frederick Douglass are laid to rest. Fuel up at local diners, enjoy farm-to-table eats, and end the day with a swirl of Abbott’s Frozen Custard, a hometown favorite since

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1902. Just a few hours from NYC, Rochester is the ideal summer road trip—easy to reach, full of discovery, and rich with unforgettable moments. Learn more at visitrochester.com.

© Matt Baldelli/Yellow House Creative

BRING THE FAMILY, CREATE THE MEMORIES.

Explore Rochester’s incredible family-friendly attractions, from parks to interactive museums and historic sites. With festivals year-round and opportunities to enjoy theater, sporting events, and more, there’s something for every age and interest. Did we mention the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games? Rochester offers endless opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Learn more at visitrochester.com

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Smugglers Notch Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Vermont is a family-focused summer destination where adventure, connection, and enjoyment come together in the heart of the Green Mountains.

Known as America’s Family Resort, Smuggs offers award-winning children’s camps, guided family activities, and outdoor experiences designed for every age.

Families can spend their days enjoying heated pools and waterslides, freshwater reservoirs with giant inflatables, scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, zip line adventures, and two top-ranked championship disc golf courses.

Daily entertainment, outdoor games, live music, and classic Vermont events create an atmosphere that keeps families active and connected from morning through evening. Fully equipped mountainside condominiums provide all the comforts of home, with onsite restaurants, shopping, and resort amenities just steps away.

For indoor fun, guests can also enjoy the 26,000-squarefoot FunZone 2.0 featuring laser tag, climbing walls, mini golf, inflatables, obstacle courses, and arcade games. Inside guests will also find the resort’s newest dining location, El Gato Cantina, serving authentic Mexican fare alongside ice-cold margaritas and family-

friendly favorites.

Whether relaxing poolside, exploring the mountains, or experiencing activities together, Smugglers’ Notch Resort delivers the kind of summer vacation families return to year after year. Learn more at Smuggs.com.

Warren County, Lake George Area Let go in the Lake George Area and dive headfirst into all summer has to offer. The water is warm, the sun is shining, and there is so much to do on a family vacation in New York’s Adirondack Mountains!

Childhood memories have long been made on the water, from Lake George Steamboat Company and Lake George Waterfront Cruises’ ships to time spent on miles of sandy shores, for lounging, splashing, and sandcastle building.

Meanwhile, boat rentals and watersport tours are designed to match your family’s sense of adventure.

Trade the water for the woods and experience family-friendly hiking trails crisscrossing the Adirondack Mountains. Not to mention the biking and mountain biking parks and paths!

Let the kids lead an expedition with self-guided tours and geological discoveries at Natural Stone Bridge & Caves, then have them hop in the front seats of a Revolution Rail Co. railbike excursion departing from several stations around the area.

Spend a day at the Great Escape theme park for classic rollercoasters, thrill rides, and iconic attractions that are nostalgic for everyone. And, what’s a family vacation without some friendly competition? Eight mini

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golf courses each have their own unique theme!

There are all sorts of family-friendly events too: live music, weekly food trucks, and free Thursday night fireworks shows over Lake George.

So, whether it’s relaxation or recreation you’re looking for, book today and experience firsthand why families choose to let go in the Lake George Area, year after year! Head to visitlakegeorge.com to learn more.

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Family Summer Experiences S

ummer around New York offers endless ways for families to get out and explore together. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip, a fun-filled outing close to home, or a whole new adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From outdoor activities and hands-on attractions to local favorites and hidden gems, there are endless opportunities for families to explore, connect, and create lasting memories all summer long.

Adventureland 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale, NY 11735 631-694-6868 GuestRelations@Adventureland.us Adventureland.us

Families looking for nonstop summer fun will find something for everyone at Adventureland, where toddler attractions, family rides, and thrill rides make it easy for guests of all ages to join in the excitement. Conveniently located near major parkways, the park is unveiling three exciting new attractions this season, including the groundbreaking Wave Twister, the first ride of its kind in the world, along with the Ram Pirate Ship and a new accessible carousel. Summer entertainment is also bigger than ever, with the debut of dazzling drone light shows, a brand-new Saturday night DJ experience called “Party on the Midway,” and the return of crowd favorites like Amazing Louie, Team Fun, and beloved princess and superhero characters from Royal Events.

Beyond the rides, visitors can enjoy midway games, an arcade, taverns, concession stands, a food court, and restaurant options featuring treats like churros, hot pretzels, and customizable dirty

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sodas from the new Tony’s Jr. kiosk. Guests can also take advantage of special savings programs throughout the season, including Sunset Savings on summer weeknights, Alfie’s Last Call discounts before closing, and the returning Library Pass Program launching in June.

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

The Gateway Playhouse 215 So Country Rd, Bellport, NY 11713 631-286-1133 boxoffice@thegateway.org

Summer on Long Island comes alive at The Gateway, where professional theater, arts education, and family entertainment come together to create unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages. As Long Island’s oldest professional theater, The Gateway has spent more than seven decades bringing Broadway-caliber productions and dynamic programming to the community.

The 2026 Mainstage season offers something for every theatergoer, featuring iconic titles such as West Side Story, Ain’t Too Proud, and Come From Away, along with additional seasonal entertainment throughout the year. These large-scale productions showcase exceptional talent and deliver the thrill of live theater just minutes from home.

Families can also enjoy The Gateway’s beloved Children’s Theatre lineup, including The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella Youth Edition, and Jeff Boyer’s Big Bubble Bonanza. Designed to spark imagination and delight young audiences, these productions provide an engaging introduction to the magic of live performance.

Land of Make Believe 354 Great Meadows Road, Hope, NJ Lomb.com

The most affordable amusement park and NJ’s best amusement park is just a short drive from you! Unlimited ride passes; free parking, free picnicking and free waterpark make the Land of Make Believe the Best Bargain day trip destination of the summer.

Access all rides, attractions and shows over and over again. This iconic amusement and water park in Hope, New Jersey, is where parents can feel like kids again, and kids have the time of their lives.

From nostalgic rides to a massive water park, The Land of Make Believe is a wholesome, safe, and affordable destination designed for the whole family. Whether zooming down slides, spinning through the sky, or catching a live show, it’s a full day of incredible family fun. Plus, the bonus of free parking, free waterpark access, and the option to bring a picnic lunch make this magical experience budget-friendly. It’s no wonder families return year after year. The Land of Make Believe is the perfect day trip that delivers big on fun and even bigger on family memories.

The Land of Make Believe isn’t just another amusement park—it’s a beloved American treasure.

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Beyond the stage, The Gateway School for the Performing Arts offers year-round opportunities through summer, fall, and spring sessions, as well as conservatory programs and production classes for students of all experience levels. With offerings for both youth and adults, participants can train with theater professionals, build confidence, and explore their creativity in a supportive environment.

Whether attending a Broadway-style musical, introducing children to live theater, or enrolling in classes, The Gateway stands out as a premier destination for culture, creativity, and community on Long Island this summer.

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Monster Mini Golf monsterminigolf.com

Upon entering Monster Mini Golf, all perceptions of traditional mini golf will be spirited away by the indoor, 18-hole, monsterthemed, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course! Deer Park and Garden City locations invite guests to experience a host of familyoriented fun activities. Whether visiting for the first time or the one hundredth, mini golfers feel the excitement and adventure of playing mini golf amidst spooktacular monsters and custom, glow-in-the-dark, hand-painted artwork. While testing their skill on the fairways, lively music flows over the course from the unique “WEIRD Radio” station, and an interactive DJ entertains golfers with contests, awarding cool prizes for the wackiest reasons. While the course is challenging enough for adults, it is also quite playable for children. Monster Mini Golf is open year-round and frightfully fun for the entire family. In addition to miniature golf and thrilling arcade and redemption games, the locations offer additional attractions. Monster Mini Golf in Deer Park offers a laser maze and a virtual reality experience, while the Garden City location has a laser maze, bowling, and a virtual reality

experience. Two very posh, private party rooms are also available and are perfect for any event. Monster Mini Golf looks forward to making it a monstrous success. Monster Mini Golf is indoors, ensuring the event will always occur, regardless of the weather. It is a climatecontrolled, affordable source of family entertainment.

New York Beach Club 1751 Ocean Blvd, Altantic Beach, NY 11509 516-371-0750 newyorkbeachclub@gmail.com newyorkbeachclub.com

New York Beach Club offers a rare balance of elevated luxury and genuine family connection, just a short drive from New York City. Unlike traditional beach clubs, NYBC is designed with both parents and children in mind—where kids are fully engaged in curated programming while adults enjoy effortless, full-service relaxation. From the moment members arrive, every detail is handled, allowing families to truly unwind and spend meaningful time together. Whether it’s a day on the beach, an afternoon by the pool, or dinner with live music overlooking the ocean, NYBC creates a seamless, all-day experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Spanning eight acres of pristine oceanfront, NYBC delivers a full-service lifestyle designed for families who expect more from their summer. Members enjoy private beaches, a heated pool, oceanfront dining, and signature cabana service complete with complimentary lounge chairs and umbrellas—all delivered with seamless, attentive hospitality.

For Summer 2026, NYBC introduces a new level of refinement, including all-new designer furnishings, enhanced beach and poolside ame-

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nities, and a brand-new Executive Chef leading a fresh, elevated approach to coastal dining. From relaxed seaside lunches to vibrant evenings with live entertainment, the club’s restaurant and tiki bar create a dynamic social scene all season long.

Families remain at the heart of the NYBC lifestyle. A full calendar of children’s programming, beach yoga, and themed events keeps younger members engaged, while the oceanfront playground, splash park, and dedicated Family Sand Court offer space to play, connect, and unwind.

Whether you’re enjoying the full season as a member or joining for a beautiful evening by the water, New York Beach Club is your destination for effortless, elevated summer living.

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ULTIMATE SUMMER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Old Barracks Museum 101 Barracks Street, Trenton, NJ 08608 609-396-1776 info@barracks.org barracks.org

The Old Barracks Museum is looking forward to reopening this summer! While the museum has been closed for crucial restoration projects, staff has been working hard creating new exhibits and programming. They are eager to welcome guests back to the museum to unveil the results of a year-long restoration, and have an exciting lineup of events leading up to a grand reopening.

On June 13th, they will be hosting Trenton Barracks Founders Day, an event honoring the women who preserved the Old Barracks.

This family-friendly event will be filled with bubble shows, face painting, balloon animals, food trucks, and a musical performance by the Blawenburg Band. This is a free event thanks to sponsor Hunter Research. Join the Old Barracks Museum on June 26th at their First Annual Gala. This inaugural fundraiser celebrates the legacy and future of the museum. The evening will feature a plated dinner, a limited open bar, and live music by the Practitioners of Musick.

These festivities culminate in the Old Barracks Grand Reopening

Celebration on July 4th. The gates will be opened by local dignitaries at 10am, followed by a performance from the vocal duo “Liberty Tree”.

Visitors will enjoy a preview of three new exhibits and see, for the first time in decades, the arch that George Washington passed under on his inaugural march through Trenton. This is also a free event. Visit barracks.org to learn more!

Playland Park 1 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 10580 914-813-7010 lmsc@westchestercountyny.gov playlandpark.org

Playland Park is one of Westchester County’s most cherished family destinations, creating lasting memories for generations of visitors.

With nearly 100 years of history, the park has become a beloved community landmark known for its unique mix of nostalgia, excitement, and summertime fun. Iconic attractions such as the Dragon Coaster, Grand Carousel, and Gondola Wheel continue to delight guests of all ages and remain a staple of the Playland experience.

Families enjoy the park’s wide variety of activities all in one location. Young children can experience classic kiddy rides designed for safe and memorable first adventures, while older kids, teens, and adults can enjoy family attractions and thrilling rides together. The park offers something for every age group, making it a popular destination for families throughout the region.

Beyond the rides, Playland also features a beach and pool, giving visitors more ways to relax and spend quality time together during the

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summer months. Friday nights are especially popular, as guests can grab a bite to eat and enjoy Playland’s spectacular fireworks displays lighting up the sky. Special holiday fireworks shows, including Fourth of July weekend celebrations, make Playland Park a fun, affordable, and unforgettable family tradition.

Wild West City 50 Lackawanna Drive, Byram Township, NJ 07874 973-347-8900 wildwestcity@gmail.com wildwestcity.com

Wild West City is a Western theme park located in the scenic Skylands Region of Sussex County, New Jersey. A perfect day trip for families and couples, it has entertained audiences for over six decades with live actionpacked shows, train and stagecoach rides, historical exhibits, and the opportunity to mingle with cowboys in “Dodge City.”

This year, the park features seasonal themes including Spring Bonanza, Summer Stampede, Fall Harvest, and Haunted Wild West in October. Visitors can meet new characters in brand-new mini-skits, help the marshal track down outlaws, or test their skills roping steer horns. Special event weekends will highlight the Civil War, National Day of the Cowboy, and Native American Dancing, complemented by seasonal food and beverages.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online. Memberships are also available for the 2026 season, offering unlimited visits, admission to

all special event days, a “bring a friend” ticket, a souvenir cup, and various retail and food discounts. More information is available at wildwestcity.com.

Now Open for 2026!

71st Season

2026 season passes are now available for purchase

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calendar

BY SHARA LEVINE

NASSAU

Sesame Street Live!

Elmo’s Got the Moves WHEN: Tuesday, June 2, 6 pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 8 and younger WHAT: Kids and parents alike will jump out of their seats moving and dancing along with Elmo and his Sesame Street friends as they dance, stretch, and play along to fan-favorite songs.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $52. (516) 299–3100, tillescenter.org

Farmingdale Medieval History Day WHEN: Saturday, June 6, 10 am – 4 pm WHERE: Farmingdale Village Green, 361 Main St., Farmingdale AGES: All WHAT: Step back in time! The Canton of Lions End, wearing Medieval clothing of different centuries, will perform demonstrations and displays of some skills, as well as arts and crafts.

WANT TO GO?: Free admission. farmingdalenychamber.org

Community Seining WHEN: Saturday, June 6, 2 – 3:30 pm WHERE: Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center, 150 Bay Pkwy.,, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: Learn all about seine fishing and about the aquatic organisms that call our waters home. WANT TO GO?: Free.

(516) 809–8222, parks.ny.gov

HarborFest Dock Day and Craft Festival WHEN: Sunday, June 7, 10 am – 5 pm WHERE: Port Washington

Empire State Fair at Nassau Coliseum Town Dock, 347 Main St., Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a celebration of nautical heritage on the waterfront of the beautiful Manhasset Bay with crafts, cruises, vendors, demonstrations, live entertainment, and more family fun.

WANT TO GO?: free admission, fee for cruises. (516) 883–6566, pwcoc.org

National Dino Day WHEN: Sunday, June 7, 10 am – 4 pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and LearningTanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: All WHAT: Get your fossils identified by educators, then exchange a fossil or mineral of your own for something new at a fossil swap!

WANT TO GO?: $12-$15. (516) 764–0045, cstl.org

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Nassau Reptile Expo WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: This one-stop experience is for anyone with an interest in reptiles, amphibians, plants, or invertebrates, featuring the coolest selection of animals to see, learn about or purchase.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $15 for adults and $10 ages 10 and younger. (516) 572–4066, nassaureptileexpo.com

Fairytale Flowers WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 4:30 – 6:30 pm WHERE: Sparkle on Stage, 195 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport AGES: 3 – 8 WHAT: Drop your little Royal off to create with Mirabel and Isabela! They’ll do floral crafts, play games and sing and dance to the hit songs from Encanto.

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $35. (515) 240–1188, anovelprincessparty.com

International Soccer Watch Party: USA vs.

Australia WHEN: Friday, June 19, 3 pm WHERE: UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tnpk., Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Kick off the fun with fellow soccer fans as the USA takes on Australia in this thrilling international matchup!

WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $8. ubsarena.com

Bellmore Fireman’s Fair WHEN: June 25–28; see website for complete schedule WHERE: LIRR – Bellmore Station, Sunrise Hwy., Bellmore AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family out for exciting rides, thrilling games, and your favorite carnival treats!

WANT TO GO?: Tickets required for rides.

JUNE dreamlandamusements.com

Empire State Fair WHEN: June 26–July 19, Weekdays, 5 – 11 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 12 – 11 pm WHERE: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Tnpk., Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: The Empire State Fair returns with all-new entertainment, thrilling rides, family attractions, water acrobatics, fireworks, and fun for all ages.

WANT TO GO?: $10 admission; free admission for under 36” tall; additional fee for rides. (516) 654–8203, empirestatefair.com

SUFFOLK South Shore Mall Carnival WHEN: Mondays – Thursdays, 5 – 10 pm, Fridays, 5 – 11 pm, Saturdays, 12 – 11 pm, Thursdays, 12 – 10 pm, through June 7 WHERE: South Shore Mall, 1701 Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore AGES: All WHAT: This family-friendly event has something for everyone, from midway rides and games for all ages to plenty of tasty carnival eats.

WANT TO GO?: $5 admission Friday-Sunday; Ride cost varies. dreamlandamusements. com

FunFest Long Island WHEN: June 11–June 21, Weekdays, 5 – 11 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 3 – 11 pm WHERE: Suffolk County Community College, 1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood AGES: All WHAT: Experience over 30

calendar

rides and attractions plus live shows, including the Anastasinis Circus, Pirates of the Caribbean Thrill Show, transforming robot car, fireworks, and more!

WANT TO GO?: $5 admission; additional fee for rides. longislandfunfest.com

Pride Rainbow Lantern Walk WHEN: Friday, June 12, 7:30 – 9 pm WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W Jericho Tnpk., Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: Take an evening stroll with the assistance of lanterns lighting the way during this special Pride-inspired nature walk.

WANT TO GO?: $4. parks. ny.gov

Butterfly and Bird Fair WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the opening of the Butterfly Vivarium with wildlife presentations, craft vendors, food trucks, and musical performances.

WANT TO GO?: $25 per car load in advance; $30 per car load day of event. (631) 979– 6344, sweetbriarnc.org

Tiny Toes & The Jazz Crew: A Musical Playground for the Whole Family WHEN: Sunday, June 14, 10 am – 12:45 pm WHERE: The Corwith House, 2368 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton

HarborFest Dock Day and Craft Festival in Port Washington

FunFest Long Island at Suffolk County Community College AGES: 5 – 8 WHAT: This multi-generational experience invites families to step into a world where nursery rhymes blend seamlessly with jazz standards, proving that great music knows no age limit.

WANT TO GO?: Free. (631) 537–1088, eventbrite.com

Mattituck Lions Club 71st Annual Strawberry Festival WHEN: June 17 – June 21; see website for complete schedule WHERE: Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival, 1105 North Road, Mattituck AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate peak strawberry season with plenty of strawberry treats, live music, rides, fireworks, crafts, and family fun in support of the Mattituck Lions Club.

WANT TO GO?: $10; free admission for children younger than 5; fee for rides. mattituckstrawberryfestival.com

Liberty at Sea WHEN: Friday, June 19, 11 am – 1 pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Uncover the true stories of African American mariners who braved giant whales and roaring oceans to build a new nation, then grab your tools to build your own wooden ship!

WANT TO GO?: $8 admission plus $12. cshwhalingmuseum. org

Famous Food Festival “Taste the World”

WHEN: Friday, June 19, 1 – 8 pm; Saturday and Sunday, June 20 – 21, 11 am – 8 pm WHERE: Tanger Outlets – Deer Park, 152 The Arches Cir., Deer Park AGES: All WHAT: Famous Food Festival returns with over 100 vendors serving food from around the world, live music all day, giveaways, fun games and rides for kids!

WANT TO GO?: $8 in advance; $15 during the event; $10 ages 8–12; free for admission children 7 and younger. (516) 416–5607, famousfoodfestival.com

48th Annual Kings Park Day Town Fair WHEN: Saturday, June 20, 10 am – 4 pm WHERE: Kings Park Day Town Fair, Main St., Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Kings Park with food, music, live performances, vendors, games, activities, rides, raffles, prizes, and more.

WANT TO GO?: Free admission. kingsparkli.com

Solstice Magic with Chris Homer WHEN: Saturday, June 27, 10:30 – 11:30 am WHERE: Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the magic of the summer solstice with Chris Homer and his spectacular magic tricks and funny surprises.

WANT TO GO?: Free. caumsettfoundation.org

June 2026 | Long Island Family

45

TWEENS & TEENS

As Prom Prices Rise, Uber Helps Teens Get There Safely with special FREE rides offer

BY BY DANIELLE RAMOS

A

s prom season approaches and prices for everything from groceries and meals out to clothing and household supplies steadily increase, the cost of attending the prom can seem overwhelming for many.

Prom tickets themselves are costly. It’s not uncommon for tickets alone to cost over $100 each, and that’s not counting attire or afterprom festivities. One of the biggest expenses is transportation. After all, no one wants their Mom or Dad dropping them off and picking them up on prom night. Uber might have a solution.

Uber is offering a promotion specifically for prom night. New users of its teen account program (for ages 13–17) can get three free rides, each valued at up to $50 each, for travel to and from prom-related events, using the code “YES!” This program gives families a budget-friendly way to get around and lets teens travel on their own. Teens can reserve rides up to 90 days in advance. They can also request a woman driver with Uber’s Women Preferences feature.

Of course, one of the most fun parts of attending prom is going with a group of friends and sharing a ride to and from activities. So, for teens attending prom in groups, UberXL is also offering a larger vehicle option, which allows friends to share a ride and helps reduce overall transportation costs.

Prom Safety Around Drinking and Driving Is Always an Issue While an Uber might not be a fancy limo, it accomplishes the most important thing on Prom night- keeping teens safe when they may drink.

Bob Nulman, an advocate for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and a father who

46 NewYorkFamily.com | June 2026

Claire Schatz

knows firsthand the heartbreak of losing a loved one to drunk driving. Bob Nulman’s 22-year-old son, Dan, was killed in a tragic head-on collision with an impaired driver in 1987, which inspired Bob to dedicate himself to fighting impaired driving. He stresses that teaching teens not to drink and drive is vital in keeping them safe.

“Changing the culture around drinking and driving, especially among young people, begins with education and open, proactive conversations,: says Nulman. “Parents, educators, community leaders, and peers all play essential roles in helping teens understand the very real consequences of impaired driving.”

“Communities can further support a shift away from impaired driving by encouraging designated drivers, rideshares, and other safe transportation options, especially during high-risk times,” he explains. “Encouraging young people to look out for one another and

speak up if they see someone trying to drive impaired creates a safety-oriented culture of shared responsibility.”

Built-In Safety Features in the Uber App for Parents To help keep things even safer, once a parent adds their teen to their Uber family profile, they get access to safety tools, including realtime trip tracking, ride notifications, PIN verification, and RideCheck. These tools can flag unexpected stops or anything unusual during a trip, and hopefully give parents a little peace of mind, so they don’t feel the need to check in constantly.

This limited-time prom promotion is valid through June 30, 2026. If you’re interested in participating, it’s a good idea to activate a teen account soon to get it all set up and take full advantage of the available savings.

LONG ISLAND

FAMILY DAY FREE EVENT!

Save the date!

Sunday, October 4th 12PM - 3PM

Cradle of Aviation Museum Charles Lindbergh Blvd Garden City, NY 11530

Fun for Kids.

Resources for Families.

Kids Play. Parents Discover. Everyone Wins.

Discover top schools, camps, and programs for your child — plus hands-on STEM, special needs resources, and more.

And while you explore, the kids have a blast with face painting, a bounce house, gaming, PXVLF IUHH FODVVHV UDƣHV DQG JLYHDZD\V For Exhibitor Opportunities email Events@newyorkfamily.com

GET YOUR FREE TICKETS TODAY!

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

NewYorkFamily.com/Events Please note: The Cradle of Aviation Museum Gallery and Planetarium admission are not included in this free event; both are a separate fee. Please visit their website to learn more.

Buckley Country Day School Columbia University Teachers College Affiliate School

Opening The Eyes And Awakening The Mind PRE-NURSERY THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE

LIMITED OPENINGS FOR

202627 Still exploring schools?

Schedule your tour today! www.BuckleyCountryDay.com • 516-627-1910