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OCTOBER 2026

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

PLAYBOOK Catch up on SATs, applications, financial responsibilities and everything in between

Eating at School with Food Allergies MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL GUIDE

Fall Is Calling! Road Trips, Pumpkins, and Lots More

FAMILY FUN STARTS HERE! From big-screen favorites to live shows and everything in between, there’s always something exciting happening at Tilles Center. See what’s coming up and join the fun! Ghostbusters in Concert

Be Like Blippi Tour!*

Dog Man: The Musical*

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 AT 6:30 PM

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 AT 6 PM

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18 AT 2 PM

CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE*

Bugs Featuring Guitarist Kaki King*

Swift Nation and Sabrina Carpenter Tribute

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 AT 4 PM

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23 AT 11 AM & 1 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 3 AT 6 PM

View our Full Season at TillesCenter.org TillesCenter.org | 516.299.3100 | 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville

*Relaxed performance: This is an inclusive, “non-shushing” performance, welcoming all neurodiverse and neurotypical audiences. Specially adapted pre-performance materials, quiet lobby areas, and sensory toys will be available.

For 150 years, Friends Academy has remained steadfast in its mission – to educate students to become their best selves and contribute to the common good. Learn how our rich history continues to guide our vision for the future at an upcoming Open House.

October 20 – Lower School (Age 3- Grade 4) October 21 – Middle School (Grades 5-8) October 22 – Upper School (Grades 9-12) All Open Houses begin at 9:30 am

friendsacademy.org

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270 Duck Pond Road

Locust Valley, NY 11560 October 2026 | Long Island Family

CONTENTS

OCTOBER 2026 NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 28

pg. 30 pg. 14

pg. 24

FEATURES

STORIES & COLUMNS

12 | College Applications Breaking down the process

8 | Editor’s Letter

24 | Ultimate Fall/Winter Guide Family road trips you’ll love taking this season

10 | Family Day Out Amazing pumpkin patches that are near or a day trip away 14 | Ask The Expert The SAT and ACT are back for some colleges: what this means for your applicant 18 | Education Choosing a middle or high school 22 | College Who pays for college after divorce? 30 | Health Tips for kids with food allergies when eating at school

4 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

pg. 22

FAMILY FUN 28 | Calendar Family-Friendly events happening this month

DIRECTORIES 20 | Middle High-School Listings

SCAN TO REGISTER

Saturday, October 17 | 11 a.m.

October 2026 | Long Island Family

Quick Guide to

The State University of New York

64 COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES UNIVERSITY CENTERS AND DOCTORAL DEGREE GRANTING INSTITUTIONS UNIVERSITY COLLEGES

COLLEGES OF TECHNOLOGY COMMUNITY COLLEGES

suny.edu/NYCgo 6 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

5 Things Every Parent Should Know About SUNY 1

SUNY Has a Place for Your Student As your student prepares for their next chapter, you’re probably thinking about some of the big college questions: Where will they thrive? What will it cost? And how can I help them get there? With 64 campuses across New York State and over 3,000 majors, SUNY offers your student countless ways to find a college experience that fits their interests, goals, and future.

SUNY Schools Are Highly Ranked Many SUNY colleges and universities appear in lists of best national, regional, and New York State colleges such as Forbes’ Top 100 Colleges in the US, Princeton Review’s Top 50 Best Value Public Colleges, and U.S. News & World Report’s Best National Universities.

SUNY Is Affordable New York State invests in SUNY so your student can get an affordable college education without sacrificing quality. More than half of SUNY students attend tuition-free, and SUNY offers a range of financial aid and support opportunities to help make college more accessible.

SUNY Offers Nation-Leading Support You and your student won’t have to navigate college alone. SUNY campuses offer personal, academic, and financial support services designed to help students succeed from day one.

You Can Apply to SUNY for Free Apply to SUNY for free from October 19 to November 2. Save up to $250 on your college applications.

SUNY will be hosting a NYC college fair on October 20 at the Jacob K Javits Convention Center. Students and their families will have the opportunity to explore their SUNY options, attend information sessions, and connect with over 50 representatives from SUNY colleges across New York State! Visit suny.edu/fairs to register today! October 2026 | Long Island Family

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, Mary Cassidy, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Terah Stone, 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 CONTRIBUTOR: Soe Kabbabe

CONTACT INFORMATION

Bring On Fall Fall is here, and who doesn’t love the changing leaves, spiced lattes, and sweater weather? WE DO; we love this season! Our Ultimate Fall/Winter Guide shares family road trips (page 24) worth exploring. And let’s not forget pumpkin patches (page 10), perfect for a quick afternoon or worth the day trip. Then there’s school because there’s always something else to think about. Enter The College Playbook, helpful articles on

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

the big questions around SATs (page 14), applications(page 12), paying for college (page 22), and the financial responsibilities that come with it. We’re also looking at how to choose a middle or high school (page 18), along with our Middle & High School Listings (page 20), to help families navigate what’s next. So, yes, there’s a lot happening this season. Go have some fun, make some plans, and check off some family fun from that list!

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

8 NewYorkFamily.com | October 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

Open House on Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 10:00-11:30am

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FAMILY DAY OUT

Pumpkin Patches! BY THALIA FERNANDEZ AND ALEXA LUTTER

ctober is pumpkin season! From nearby farms to easy day trips, these pumpkin patches are worth the drive. Pick your perfect pumpkin, stock up on gourds and munchkins, and make a day of all that fall has to offer. Long Island Harbes Family Farm 715 Sound Ave, Mattituck, NY 631-482-7641 With 8 acres of on-the-vine pumpkins, Harbes Family Farm has a vast selection of pumpkins just waiting for you to take home! Join them for the grand seasonal opening of the Barnyard Pumpkin patch during Harbes’ Annual Pumpkin Harvest, where you can enjoy live music, concession stands, pig races, a 7-acre “u-pick” pumpkin patch, and more. Many different varieties are available, so you will have no shortage of options here. Enjoy their apple cider donuts and other options as you pick your pumpkins. Pumpkins are sold by the pound. Open from 10 am to 6 pm weekdays and weekends and holidays from 9 am to 6 pm. Hank’s PumpkinTown 240 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY 631-726-4667 The name says it best, as Hank’s Pumpkin Town truly is a pumpkin town with pumpkins of all sizes! Other fall decorations include gourds, corn stalks, straw bales, Indian Corn, mums, Montauk daisies, door hangings, and more. Check out the Pink Tractor, which features pink porcelain doll pumpkins! Hanks’ PumpkinTown donates a portion of each sale to Breast Cancer Research. Weekday hours: 10 am to 5:30 pm; pumpkin picking and maze park: 7 days a week. New York City Queens County Farm 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy, Queens

10 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

718-347-3276 As the longest continually farmed site in New York State, Queens County Farm opens its pumpkin patch again this October for families to enjoy. Pumpkin month at Queens County Farm is full of excitement with autumn in the air. While the pumpkin patch is open primarily on weekends, pumpkins can be purchased in the Farm Store during the week. The museum is open to the public from Oct. 1 to Oct. 31. Free admission; open October 3 & 4 for Agriculture Fair ticket holders only. The Pumpkin Patch will be open on October 31 for Halloween to Farm ticket holders only. Weekdays, 1 pm – 5 pm. Weekends, 10 am – 5 pm.

ends. To receive reduced pricing, visit their website and purchase your tickets online.

Westchester Outhouse Orchards 139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY 914-277-3188 Outhouse Orchards attracts plenty of families year after year — you can even bring your family dog! Choose from pumpkins, gourds, and an assortment of Halloween decorations as you celebrate the fall season. Reservations are not required on weekdays, but you can book a reservation if you visit the farm on the weekend. Pumpkins are weighed by the pound. General Admission is $16 ($18 at the gate) on weekdays and $22.45 ($27) on week-

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 914-245-5111 Pumpkin picking is anticipated to open on September 27 at Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm! Spend the day with your family in the patch as you search for your favorite pumpkin. Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm is also very well known for its markets: the bakery, apple farm market, and country market. At these markets, you can purchase tasty treats, decorations, and, of course, pumpkins! They’re open 10 am to 4:30 pm, Wednesday through Monday (closed on Tuesdays).

Stuart’s Fruit Farm 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY 914-245-2784 Not only a fruit farm, Stuart’s Fruit Farm features the perfect pumpkin patch for families, and it’s family-operated! Enjoy the autumn air and the farm views as you survey the pumpkins and choose your favorite. If you don’t have time to venture into the pumpkin patch, you can buy pre-picked pumpkins and gourds at the farm stand. The stand is open from 9 am to 6 pm daily. Cash or check only.

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EDUCATION

College Applications! Feeling overwhelmed? Let’s break the process down BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD

his year, I am parenting two kids entering two very different chapters next school year, but I have to figure it out this year, of course. One child is heading into middle school (for special needs), and the other is heading into college (WTAF!), and since the college applications are due first because December 1st is the recommended date to apply to maximize our chances for financial aid and campus housing, the oldest kid’s college application is the task at hand that is most important. Fun times! I knew this process would be a lot. What I didn’t realize was just how many moving pieces there are: researching schools, figuring out deadlines, keeping track of applications, essays, recommendations, financial aid, testing, visits, and approximately 1,000 other things that suddenly seem very important. So rather than pretending I have this all figured out, I decided to do what I do whenever life feels chaotic…make a list. If you are also going through the college application process, read on. Here’s the college application timeline I’m using to keep myself, and hopefully my child (and maybe you), from completely losing it. First, I created one master college calendar. Every application deadline, essay, recommendation, test date, financial-aid deadline, and other important date goes in one place. I’m also helping my son put together a realistic list of schools. Start with the college list This isn’t just a list of every school your child has ever mentioned. Ideally, you’re looking at a mix of schools that make sense academically, financially, and geographically, and schools where your child can realistically see themselves. You’ll often hear schools described as: Reach: A school where admission is less certain based on your student’s profile. Target: A school where your student’s academic profile is generally in range. Likely: A school where admission is more

12 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

likely based on the student’s profile. The goal isn’t to predict exactly where your child will get in. It’s to make sure you aren’t putting all of your emotional and financial eggs in one basket. What to do during OctoberNovember Okay, now things get real. At this point, I’m checking our calendar approximately 400 times. This is when I want every school to have its own little checklist. For each college, I’m tracking: • Application deadline • Early Decision deadline, if applicable • Early Action deadline, if applicable • Regular Decision deadline • Supplemental essays • Recommendation requirements • Transcript requirements • Testing requirements • Application fee • Financial-aid (the small print, what they may cover and the deadlines) • Scholarship opportunities (what are their offerings, for example if private and not many, we’re out) Because one of the easiest mistakes to make is assuming that every school has the same deadline and requirements. What Exactly Is FAFSA? I have heard about FAFSA from other parents who went through all of this before I really understood what it was. FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid AKA Financial Aid It is the form families complete to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including things such as federal grants, work-study, and federal student loans. Colleges and states may also use FAFSA information when determining eligibility for their own financial aid. And here’s something I think is important: Don’t assume you don’t need to fill it out simply because you don’t think you’ll qualify for financial aid. Check the requirements and deadlines for the schools and state you’re dealing with.

How Does FAFSA Actually Work? This is where it can get confusing for parents. The student starts the FAFSA, and for a dependent student, a parent may be required to participate as a contributor. The parent contributor has their own StudentAid.gov account and provides the financial information required on the form. You’ll want to have financial and tax information available. FAFSA can also use information transferred from the IRS once the required consent is provided. Mom translation: FAFSA is essentially the financial-aid application you don’t want to ignore.. Wait… What Is the Common App? The Common Application, or Common App, is, in a nutshell, one application that you can use to apply to most colleges. Which, honestly, THANK GAWD, because let’s be real, I am the unpaid consultant, the lead in making sure this all gets done, and this is super helpful. The caveat is that while the Common App is a time saver, it doesn’t mean one application and you’re done, since some individual colleges can have additional questions, essays, testing requirements, and other materials. So when you check off your list, make sure you note this. Mom translation: The Common App makes applying easier. However, it does not make the entire college application process one-and-done. The Personal Essay The Common App includes an essay, and this is one area where I am trying very hard not to take over. Yes, I have opinions. I can probably find approximately 47 ways to rewrite a sentence. But ultimately, this is my child’s essay, so the goal isn’t to make your teenager sound like a 45-year-old professional writer. It’s to let the admissions office learn something about the person behind the grades and activities. Letters from the School This recommendation letter process seems simple until you realize your child may not be

the only kid asking a teacher for a recommendation. Also, think of school staff who may know your child outside the classroom, such as a coach or a mental health counselor- someone many high schools now provide. Mom move: Ask early. Don’t wait until a deadline is looming to discover that the teacher your child really wants to recommend them is already writing 12 other recommendations. What Are Early Decision and Early Action? If there could even be more quandaries to the college application process, there are. This is another area that needs a plain-English explanation. Early Decision (ED) is generally binding. A student applies early and, if accepted, is committing to attend that college, subject to the school’s specific terms and financial-aid

circumstances. That means this isn’t simply a way to find out earlier. Early Action (EA) is when an applicant student applies early and receives an admissions decision earlier without the same binding commitment as Early Decision. Because a college, especially a private one, may have a different timeline, and because exceptions and individual college rules exist, always check the specific school’s requirements. Mom translation: Early Decision: “If they accept me, I’m saying yes.” Early Action: “I’m applying early, but I’m generally not committing to attend.” The Part I’m Trying to Remember The biggest thing I’m reminding myself

throughout this process is that my job isn’t to go to college for my kid. My job is to help him get through the process without drowning in it, and, ideally, without me drowning in it either. There will probably be moments when I wonder why I didn’t start sooner. There will be moments when I have no idea what we’re doing. There will definitely be moments when I say, “Did you submit that yet?” for the 100th time. But for now, I have a calendar. I have a checklist. And I have accepted that this is going to be a process. And if you are in the same boat my wish is for you to as well. Now Breathe. October 2026 | Long Island Family

ASK THE EXPERT

The SAT and ACT Are Back. Now What? An admissions expert on what’s changed, what matters, and what teens should do next BY DONNA DUARTE -LADD

here is so much that parents and students have to think about when applying to college. So, for a while, there was a bit of a sigh of relief when colleges started making the SAT and ACT optional. Fast-forward a few years, and now they’re back at it, colleges that is, with some of the biggest names in higher education bringing standardized testing back into the admissions process. Which means other colleges will most likely follow suit. First , what is the SAT and why are these test scores such a big deal? The SAT has been part of college admissions since 1926, while the ACT came along in 1959. While some students take both, most colleges accept either. The tests have obviously evolved since then, as has the way colleges use them, but one thing hasn’t changed: taking them can be stressful. Now that they are back, parents and students still want to know: Do these tests really matter? And will the colleges my child is applying to bring them back, too? To get you reacquainted and help families (and even us parents here at NYF!) make sense of what’s happening and, hopefully, take some of the stress out of it, we asked college admissions expert Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO and Founder of Prep Expert to break down why the SAT and ACT are making a comeback, what it means for today’s applicants, and how students can prepare without letting the pressure take over. Many families thought standardized tests were becoming less important. What’s behind the return of SAT and ACT requirements, and what should parents know? For a few years, test-optional made

14 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

testing feel like it was fading away, but that trend has reversed at the top. Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Brown, Cornell, MIT, and Penn now require the SAT or ACT again, and Princeton and Columbia are set to follow starting with the 2027-2028 cycle. What’s behind it is data: when these universities studied their own admissions, they found that test scores actually helped them identify capable students, including talented kids from under-resourced schools, and that going test-optional hadn’t delivered the fairness gains it promised. What parents should take away is simple. Testing is back, so it’s worth treating the SAT or ACT as a real part of the plan rather than something to wait and see about. How can students decide whether the SAT, the ACT, or both are the right fit for them? I always recommend the same first step: take one short, timed practice test of each,

under realistic conditions. The scores and, just as importantly, how each test felt will usually point clearly to one over the other. Colleges accept both equally, so there’s no strategic advantage to submitting both. Once a student sees where they naturally perform better and feel more comfortable, they should commit to that one test and put their energy there. Trying to prepare for both at once usually splits focus and produces two average scores instead of one strong one. Many parents worry one test score can make or break a college application. How much weight do SAT and ACT scores really carry alongside grades, activities, essays, and recommendations? I’d reassure parents here. Admissions at these schools is holistic, which means the score is one important piece, not the whole picture. Grades over four years still carry the most weight, and essays, activities, and

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ASK THE EXPERT

“A single test score rarely makes or breaks an application on its own. What a strong score does is open doors and reinforce the rest of the application.”

recommendations all matter. A single test score rarely makes or breaks an application on its own. What a strong score does is open doors and reinforce the rest of the application, and it carries a second benefit families often overlook: scores frequently unlock merit scholarships, which can make college dramatically more affordable. So it’s worth taking seriously, without treating it as the only thing that counts. If a student doesn’t get the score they hoped for, how should families decide whether to retake the test? A retake is often worth it, and I say that for a practical reason: most students improve on a second attempt, because they know the format, the pacing, and their own weak spots. My guidance is to look at the gap between the score they got and the score ranges of the schools they’re targeting. If a higher score would meaningfully help their odds or their scholarship chances, retake it, but do it with a plan. Simply sitting the test again without addressing what went wrong the first time rarely moves the number. Review the

rather than intensity: protect a consistent study routine, make sure they’re sleeping and taking breaks, and celebrate progress on practice tests instead of fixating on the final number. Keep perspective out loud, too. Remind them that this is one part of a much bigger application, and that plenty of paths lead to a great college outcome. Calm, steady encouragement helps scores more than anxiety ever will.

mistakes, drill the weak areas, then retest. Just leave enough time in the calendar so a retake doesn’t collide with application deadlines. Standardized testing can be stressful. How can parents support their teen without adding to the pressure? The most helpful thing parents can do is frame the test as a skill that improves with practice, not a verdict on how smart their child is. That single reframe takes enormous pressure off. Beyond that, help with structure

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If you could leave families with one piece of advice about standardized testing and college admissions this year, what would it be? Control what you can control. You can’t control shifting admissions policies, but you can control preparation, and the SAT and ACT are among the most coachable, improvable parts of the entire process. Start early, prepare strategically, and treat a strong score as what it is: a door-opener for both admissions and scholarships. Families who focus their energy there, instead of worrying about the headlines, consistently come out ahead.

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October 2026 | Long Island Family

EDUCATION

Choosing a Middle or High School Where to start, what to know BY NEW YORK FAMILY

hoosing a middle or high school is one of those parenting decisions where everyone feels very grown-up. You have decisions to make as they become more independent, figure out what they like, discover where they shine, and, yes, sometimes figure out what they don’t like. And in New York, there is no shortage of choices. Depending on where you live, families can consider traditional public schools, specialized public schools, charter schools, private and Catholic schools, Jewish schools, boarding schools, career and technical programs, and more. Some schools are known for academics, others for the arts, athletics, STEM, a particular educational philosophy, or simply creating a community where a certain kind of student thrives. The trick is figuring out which environment fits your child. For kids graduating out of elementary school, middle school is an important transition. It’s often the first time kids are navigating multiple teachers, changing classes, more homework, and greater independence. Not surprisingly, high school brings even bigger decisions, from course selection and extracurriculars to college and career planning. So where do you begin? Start by learning what’s actually out there, then visit schools, ask questions, talk to current families and students, and pay attention to what your child is telling you. Here’s our guide to the major school options in New York and what to look for as you begin.

Public Schools For many New York families, the public school system is the starting point. Public schools are tuition-free and include traditional neighborhood schools as well as schools with specialized academic programs, arts programs, career and technical education, language programs, and other areas of focus. In New York City, families have the opportunity to explore schools beyond their

18 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

zoned school, particularly when applying to middle and high school. High school students can choose from a wide range of programs and school environments, while some schools have specific admissions requirements. When researching a public school, look beyond test scores and rankings. Consider the courses offered, class sizes, extracurricular activities, academic support, special education services, college and career counseling, school culture, and how well the school serves your child’s particular interests and needs. For older students, it’s also worth looking at opportunities such as internships, workbased learning, advanced coursework, arts programs, athletics, and career and technical education. Private Schools Private schools offer another broad range of choices, from small independent schools to large college-preparatory institutions and schools with specific educational philosophies. One potential advantage is the ability to find a school that closely matches your child’s learning style, interests, personality, or academic goals. Depending on the school, students may have access to smaller classes, extensive arts and athletics programs, specialized facilities, advanced courses, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Of course, private schools vary tremendously. Tuition, financial aid, admissions requirements, school size, curriculum, and student life can all look very different from one school to another. When touring, ask yourself and your child whether the school feels like a place where they can be challenged and supported. And if cost is a consideration, ask early about financial aid, scholarships, tuition assistance, and payment options. Boarding Schools Boarding school can be a particularly appealing option for older students who are ready for a more independent experience or for families looking for a specialized academic, arts, athletic, or educational environment. New York is home to boarding schools with a variety of academic and extracurricular offerings. Students live on campus, which means the school experience extends beyond the classroom. Dorm life, clubs, athletics, weekend activities, and community traditions all become part of the experience. For families considering boarding school, the questions go beyond academics. How much independence does your child want? What is the dorm experience like? How often can students go home? What support is available for homesickness or academic challenges? What does a typical weekend look like?

For the right student, boarding school can be an opportunity to develop confidence, independence, and strong relationships with teachers and classmates.

extracurriculars, discipline policies, academic support, and expectations for families. A longer school day or year may work beautifully for one child and feel exhausting to another.

Charter Schools Charter schools are public schools that are independently operated under a charter and are tuition-free for students. Many charter schools have their own educational models, schedules, academic approaches, or areas of focus. Because charter schools can differ significantly from one another, it’s important not to think of “charter school” as one particular type of education. Some emphasize college preparation, while others focus on STEM, the arts, language, project-based learning, or other approaches. Admissions processes also vary. Depending on the school, families may need to submit an application, and when there are more applicants than available seats, admission may be determined through a lottery. Before applying, look closely at the school’s curriculum, schedule, transportation,

Catholic Schools Catholic schools can offer families a combination of academics, faith-based education, community, and structured school life. New York has Catholic schools serving students from elementary through high school, with both co-ed and single-sex options available. At the high school level, families can find schools ranging from large, academically competitive institutions to smaller schools with a more intimate environment. Many offer athletics, arts, clubs, service opportunities, and advanced academic programs. Admissions requirements vary by school. Families should check directly with each school for current application requirements, testing information, deadlines, tuition, and financial aid. If you are considering a Catholic school, don’t just look at the academic program. Ask about the school’s approach to faith

formation, community service, student life, and how involved families are expected to be. Jewish Schools Jewish middle and high schools combine a traditional academic curriculum with Jewish learning, culture, history, and community. The balance between secular and Jewish studies varies considerably from school to school, so it’s worth researching each school individually. Students may have opportunities to study Hebrew, Jewish history and texts, participate in holiday and Shabbat programming, explore Israel and Jewish culture, and take part in community service and extracurricular activities. As with any school choice, families should consider the whole experience: academics, student life, extracurriculars, school culture, class size, transportation, and how the school approaches the transition from middle school to high school and beyond. Some schools are co-ed, while others are single-sex, and admissions processes and tuition vary.

FROM AGE 2 THROUGH GRADE 8

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Buckley Country Day School Opening The Eyes And Awakening The Mind

www.buckleycountryday.com @BuckleyCountryDaySchool

October 2026 | Long Island Family

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Buckley Country Day School 2 I.U. Willets Road, Roslyn cfortuna@buckleycountryday. com 516-627-1910 buckleycountryday.com Buckley Country Day School is an inclusive community that nurtures the whole child and lays the foundation for success in high school, college, and beyond. Buckley’s mission, “Opening the eyes and awakening the mind,” is at the heart of its curriculum, which seeks to inspire and prepare students for a lifetime of learning. Buckley accepts students as young as two years old in prenursery and admits students on a rolling basis through 7th grade.

Friends Academy 270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley admissions@fa.org 516-676-0393 friendsacademy.org Located on Long Island’s North Shore, Friends Academy is an independent, coeducational, collegepreparatory day school for students from age 3 through grade 12. Founded in 1876, the school offers an exceptional academic experience rooted in the 350-year-old tradition of Quaker education, preparing students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and impact. At Friends, learning is more than academics—it’s about shaping thoughtful individuals who are curious, compassionate, and committed to making the world better.

The Green Vale School

The Mary Louis Academy

250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville admissions@greenvaleschool. org 516-628-5120 greenvaleschool.org Families from New York’s top school districts choose Green Vale for its exceptional academics in a joyful environment. Serving PreNursery through 8th Grade, the school emphasizes intellect, character, and confidence, preparing students for life beyond the classroom. With small class sizes and a holistic approach that blends academics, arts, sports, and community, Green Vale provides personalized attention and fosters lifelong learners. It’s a place where every student is known, supported, and valued.

176-21 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates, NY 11432 admissions@tmla.org 718-739-2120 ext. 233 tmla.org The Mary Louis Academy (TMLA) is a premier Catholic, all-girls college-preparatory school serving grades 6–12 in Jamaica Estates, Queens. Sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph, TMLA combines academic excellence with opportunities for every student to lead, discover her strengths, and thrive. Students benefit from 19 AP courses, 29 athletic teams, 50+ clubs, and distinctive academic pathways—all on a five-acre hilltop campus where young women are guided by knowledge and grounded in faith.

Portledge School Harrow International School New York 500 Montauk Highway, Oakdale admissions@harrownewyork. com 631-869-1572 harrownewyork.com Combining 450 years of outstanding pedagogy at Harrow School, one of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools, with the vibrancy of New York and a stunning waterfront campus spread over more than 100 acres, Harrow New York offers a premium day and 5-day or 7-day boarding school education for girls and boys in grades 6 to 12. Conveniently located near the LIRR Oakdale Station and the LI MacArthur Airport, founding students will enjoy remarkable leadership opportunities.

355 Duck Pond Rd rsupple@portledge.org 516-750-3222 portledge.org At Portledge School, students thrive in a nurturing community that blends rigorous academics with character and purpose. On a stunning 63-acre Long Island campus, Portledge boasts small classes, dedicated faculty, IB and AP courses, and diverse arts, athletics, and STEM programs that prepare students for college and beyond. Families are invited to discover the Portledge experience at the All-School Open House on Saturday, October 17, at 10:30 am (Program begins promptly at 11 am).

Simon’s Rock at Bard College 30 Seminary Drive Barrytown, NY 12507 admit@sr.bard.edu 845-752-5600 simons-rock.edu Simon’s Rock at Bard College is an early college that allows students to begin full-time college studies at a younger age. With multiple entry points for all high school aged students, the curriculum culminates in a B.A. degree from Bard College, completed sooner than the traditional college degree timeline. Apply today for spring 2027.

The Waldorf School of Garden City 225 Cambridge Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530 mulvehilla@waldorfgarden.org 516-742-3434 waldorfgarden.org The Waldorf School of Garden City educates students from Nursery through 12th grade in a dynamic and deeply human way, engaging the whole child in a journey of intellectual, artistic, and personal growth. Guided by a developmental approach, students’ needs are met with age-appropriate content and methods that awaken curiosity, build confidence, and cultivate a love of learning. The curriculum is experiential and immersive, educating students not just for school but for life.

Check us out Online Visit newyorkfamily.com to explore our site and sign up for our weekly newsletters!

20 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

Fall Into Discovery

Is your family looking to discover your next fall adventure? Look no further than Wildlife Conservation Society! WCS Zoos and Aquarium have educational programs for every member of the family. Make the most of your visit and see animals up close, explore exhibits, and engage in activities that scream fall fun for the whole family.

This Fall 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

October 2026 | Long Island Family

COLLEGE

Who Pays for College After Divorce? Expert tips on how to work it out

hen couples marry and declare their undying love and vows, divorce and how you are expected to navigate it if it happens are not part of the ceremony. Yet, when a marriage ends, questions about money are not surprisingly the most stressful and confusing parts of the agreement process, especially for parents. And many times, especially when the kids are quite young, who will pay for college is not on the agenda. This is why we connected with legal expert Shira Katz Scanlon, Esquire, Managing Partner, Martine, Katz Scanlon & Schimmel, to answer some of the biggest questions parents have about the financial side of divorce. College is expensive. How should parents approach conversations about paying for it in a way that feels fair? Having these conversations early and often can help. Some people will not think about college in their divorce settlement because the children are young and it seems like a “future me” problem. As we know all too well, the years are short, and these milestones have a way of sneaking up on parents. The law about whether a divorced parent is required to pay for college at all varies widely by state, so there may be a difference between the obligation (as there might be such an obligation in New Jersey, but not in Pennsylvania) and the family’s expectation or agreement about paying for college, even without a legal obligation to provide that financial support. Discussing these issues transparently in advance helps both parties can have an understanding of what the other’s expectations are and plan, at least to some extent. Having this baseline knowledge early on makes for an easier transition from something that seems hypothetical and far-off to having to start arranging for college visits when the child is in high school. What does fairness actually look like? Is it always a 50/50 split? Sometimes a 50/50 split would be very

22 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

unfair if one parent earns or has access to significant funds and the other parent does not. Dividing expenses proportionately with the parents’ incomes is a very common outcome. Sometimes one party is imputed income, meaning they earn little or no income because of their own household situation and needs, so assuming they can earn some or more than they do is what would be fair. Often, the child can have a stake in their own education and be involved in dividing college costs by taking on some student loans. The key in a truly fair division of college expenses is to think about all of the expenses that do not come in a bill from the university and make sure those are contemplated also. Otherwise, what often happens is that the default parent that the kids come to asking for things is the one that ends up taking on more than the fair share of the true, overall cost. Whether this is the higher income earner or not, it can create a real disparity between the financial support each party is providing to the child. Many colleges will provide estimates outlining a total cost, but a family’s lifestyle will often inform the child’s budget once they go away to school. Tuition, fees, room, board, meal plans, and books are almost always considered; but college students have other expenses that also need to be factored into a conversation about dividing the cost of college. How can parents keep their child’s future at the center of decisions, even when there is lingering conflict? Embracing that there is no moment of victory can be a helpful step. The most successful

clients I see put their children first, full stop. Most people say they are putting their child first, but this is harder to achieve than it is to announce. Setting aside ego and a sense of justice is important because the other party is very unlikely to ever recognize that they were “wrong”, or you were “right”. Everything just is. Keys to achieving this include simply knowing your truth without someone else validating it, selecting which battles to wage in earnest, and always keeping in mind how the child might experience any given dispute. What does healthy co-parenting look like during the college years? Parents who have a clear agreement on how to handle the generally foreseeable expenses can often enjoy a little bit of a break while a child is in college. Co-parenting a minor child living at home usually involves consistent educational, medical, and financial needs, all of which require frequent and consistent communication and cooperation. These near-daily co-parenting tasks are replaced by fewer opportunities that require co-parenting when a legal adult attends college. As long as the financial needs are addressed clearly, while there may be items that require reimbursement or discussion, otherwise, the child is generally legally an adult, and thus the same way that parenting a child in college transforms into a new phase of parenting, coparenting shifts into a new stage. There will be graduations, birthdays, promotions, weddings, grandchildren… all of which are experiences that are better if they are not tarnished by conflict between exes.

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October 2026 | Long Island Family

ULTIMATE FALL/WINTER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Family Road Trips H it the road for a fun, fall family getaway just a short drive away. With so much beauty, history, and excitement close to home, your family won’t need to go far to find a destination everyone will enjoy. From peeping vibrant fall foliage to outdoor adventures or just a refreshing change of scenery, these drivable destinations make it easy to plan a road trip to your family’s next adventure!

Lake George Area 1340 State Route 9, Lake George, NY 1-800-95-VISIT visitlakegeorge.com/things-to-do/ family-fun

As late fall lets go into early winter, it’s time for families to let go in the Lake George Area too! As the leaves turn and drop and the first snowflakes fly, the Adirondack Mountains become a picture-perfect destination for families. Fall favorites like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and scenic drives give way to winter traditions, including holiday shopping, snowshoeing, igloo dining, sleigh rides, and arts and culture. Kick off the season with snow-globe experiences, like dining inside a cozy igloo. Get a head start on holiday shopping with bargains at The Factory Outlets of Lake George, or browse charming downtown boutiques for artisan gifts. When temperatures dip, enjoy live performances and stand-up comedy at the Charles R. Wood Theater, The Park Theater, and The Carol Theatre. Once snow blankets the landscape, head to Circle B Ranch for a horse-drawn sleigh ride straight out of a holiday movie. The magic continues with annual events. Western spirit comes

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alive at the Adirondack Stampede Rodeo, where professionals compete in roping, racing, and riding at the Harding Mazzotti Arena, which also transforms into the home rink of the Adirondack Thunder ice hockey team. As the holidays approach, Lite Up the Village illuminates Lake George with decorations that remain throughout the season, leading into the Lake George Winter Carnival and Brant Lake Winter Carnival. Don’t let the chance to make memories fade with the seaons - let go on a family vacation to the Lake George Area.

Where adventures abound and the season comes alive. From majestic, snow-blanketed mountains to funw i` Ü ÌiÀ V>À Û> Ã] Û Ã Ì Ì i > i i À}i ƂÀi> > ` i LÀ>Vi Ì i Ãi>Ã Ü Ì > Þ ÕÀ i>ÀÌ° * > Þ ÕÀ }iÌ>Ü>Þ Ì `>Þ >Ì VisitLakeGeorge.com October 2026 | Long Island Family

ULTIMATE FALL/WINTER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

MetroWest Boston 508-434-4433 metrowestvisitors.org/guide

Ready to trade city streets for brilliant foliage, historic villages and unexpected adventures? An easy drive from Brooklyn, MetroWest Massachusetts packs a surprising amount into a weekend getaway. Start at the American Heritage Museum, named one of National Geographic’s Top 10 WWII Museums in the world. Explore historic aircraft, tanks, and classic cars through immersive exhibits and living history experiences. Then head to Hudson, named America’s Best Main Street, for local shops and small-town charm, or nearby Sudbury for a cooking class at Duck Soup and a taste of Goodnow Farms Chocolate. Have dinner at the Wayside Inn, America’s oldest inn, and explore its 100-acre grounds and historic grist mill. With 44 hotels across MetroWest, there’s no shortage of places to stay, including Courtyard Boston Natick. Located within walking distance of the Natick Mall, New England’s largest, the hotel puts shopping, indoor mini-golf at Puttshack, and challenges at Level99 within easy reach. The next morning, visit the Danforth Art Museum, featuring historic and contemporary works, including groundbreaking sculptures by Harlem Renaissance artist Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller. Then head outdoors for hiking or paddling along the Sudbury River or at a state park. Fall brings apple and pumpkin picking, corn mazes, farm animals, playgrounds, festivals, live music, outdoor dining, and farm-to-glass hard cider.

Add charming downtowns, local makers, holiday markets and snowy trails, and you have a getaway that’s wonderfully far from ordinary.

Visit Rochester Visitor Center: 45 East Avenue, Ste 400, Rochester, NY 14604 585-279-8314 visitrochester.com

There’s something special about fall in Rochester, NY—and others have taken notice. Last year, Rochester was named the #2 Best Place to Visit for Fall in the U.S. by USA TODAY 10Best, making this Finger Lakes destination an ideal choice for your family’s next autumn getaway. Surrounded by colorful foliage and crisp fall air, Rochester offers plenty of ways to celebrate the season together. Make the most of fall: • Explore the outdoors: Take in brilliant fall colors along the Genesee River, Erie Canal, parks and trails. Pick apples at a local orchard, wander through a corn maze or enjoy a family hike at one of the area’s outdoor agritainment venues. • Play all day: Discover The Strong National Museum of Play, home to the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls and games, plus the National Toy Hall of Fame. • Step into history: Experience 19th-century life at Genesee Country Village & Museum, New York State’s largest living history museum, with 68 historic buildings, costumed interpreters and

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seasonal events. • Discover inspiring stories: Explore the legacies of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, two iconic changemakers whose stories are deeply connected to Rochester. Round out your getaway with family-friendly festivals, farm markets, local food and seasonal treats. With the Finger Lakes at Rochester’s doorstep, even more fall adventures are within easy reach. Just a few hours from New York City, Rochester offers the perfect mix of colorful scenery, hands-on fun, history and unexpected discoveries.Plan your fall Flower City getaway today!

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 October 2026 | Long Island Family

calendar BY SHARA LEVINE

NASSAU

exciting activities. You’ll get to test your skills at the Frontline Combine, play Lotería, enjoy music, dancing, and food and more. WANT TO GO?: Free. (516) 654–8203, nassaucoliseum. com

Hicks Nurseries 51st Annual Fall Festival WHEN: Daily, 10 am – 5 pm, through Nov. 1 WHERE: Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: This Long Island fall tradition features the beloved Otto the Ghost, lawn games, a hay maze, an animated Halloween walkthrough adventure, and more! WANT TO GO?: Free admission. hicksnurseries.com

40th Annual Rock Hall Country Fair – Celebrating America’s 250th WHEN: Oct. 17 – 18, Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm WHERE: Rock Hall Museum, 199 Broadway, Lawrence AGES: All WHAT: Colonial history, craft vendors, antique cars, farm animals, pony rides, a children’s craft area, a pumpkin patch, and more are all part of this annual community event. WANT TO GO?: Free admission. friendsofrockhall.org

Heritage Fall Festival 2026 WHEN: Daily, 10 am – 4:30 pm, through Nov. 1 WHERE: Heritage Farm & Garden, 6050 Northern Blvd., Muttontown AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a fun-filled fall day with a corn maze, hayrides, specialty fall treats, children’s crafts, photo opps, lawn games, live music, and farm animals. WANT TO GO?: $15 – $25. (516) 922–1026, heritagefarmandgarden.com

Uncle Vlad’s Pumpkin Patch

Amityville’s Haunted Harvest

Spookyfest WHEN: Oct. 2 – 25, Fridays – Sundays, 6 – 9 pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and LearningTanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: All WHAT: Take a trip into the Enchanted Forest Walk with friendly displays and characters, or travel to the Spooky Woods with zombies and other scary characters and scenes– you decide! WANT TO GO?: $22 – $27. (516) 764–0045, cstl.org

Grand Baldwin Festival WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3, noon

– 4:30 pm WHERE: Behind the Baldwin Public Library, 2385 Grand Ave., Baldwin AGES: All WHAT: This annual event features a pop-up marketplace, food vendors, live musical performances, an art showcase, and activities for all ages. WANT TO GO?: Free. (516) 223–6228, grandbaldwinfestival.com

Long Island Family Day – Cradle of Aviation WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 4, noon – 3 pm WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh

28 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

Boulevard, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Get ready for a day of fun with tons of interactive games and activities, exciting raffles, awesome giveaways, and valuable information on local resources. WANT TO GO?: Free. (516) 572–4066, newyorkfamily.com

Frontline Fest WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 10, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm WHERE: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Tnpk., Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Healthcare advocacy comes to life through fun and

WHEN: Oct. 17 & 18, 25, 31, 11 am & 1 pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3 – 12 WHAT: Uncle Vlad is back, this time to help his nephew Chad graduate from Boo-niversity! Can Chad pass his final horror merit badge tests? Find out in this fun, puppet-filled performance. WANT TO GO?: $5 with $18 museum admission ($4 members); $10 theater only. (516) 224–5800, licm.org

Adventureland’s Annual Pumpkin Park WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 11 am – 5 pm WHERE: Adventureland, 2245 Route 110, Farmingdale AGES: All WHAT: Visit Adventureland in your Halloween costumes and enjoy trick-or-treating along

OCTOBER

calendar

“Sweet Street”. WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $39.50-$51.50. adventureland.us

Wednesday Addams Nevermore Mystery Dance WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 3 – 5 pm WHERE: Sparkle on Stage, 195 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport AGES: 3 – 12 WHAT: Wednesday Addams invites your little oddling to the Nevermore Mystery Dance, an enchantingly eerie evening of mystery, movement, & deliciously dark fun WANT TO GO?: $35. (515) 240–1188, anovelprincessparty. com

SUFFOLK Country Fair at Hallockville WHEN: Oct. 3 – 4, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm WHERE: Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate farm life, local history and culture, and community spirit with farm animals, children’s games and crafts, wagon and kiddie train rides, tractor pulls, live music, and more. WANT TO GO?: $12; $8 ages 5 – 12; free for ages 4 and younger; Sunday 50% off between 10am – 12pm. (631) 298–5292, hallockville.org

Sayville Fan Fest WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: Sayville Library, 88 Greene Ave., Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate your fandom with over 30 vendors and artists, food trucks, music, costume contest, scavenger hunt, appearances from professional Star Wars cosplayers, and more. WANT TO GO?: Free. sayvillelibrary.org

Amityville’s Haunted Harvest WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3, 1 – 7 pm WHERE: Amityville’s Haunted Harvest, 174 Park Ave.,

Sayville Fan Fest Amityville AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy Coney Island– style carnival entertainment, paint-a-pumpkin patch, character meet-and-greets, food trucks, and so much more. WANT TO GO?: Free admission. amityvilleshauntedharvest.com

Famous Food Festival 2026 – Columbus Day Weekend WHEN: Friday, Oct. 9, 1 – 8 pm; Oct. 10 – 12, Saturday – Monday, 11 am – 8 pm WHERE: Tanger Outlets Deer Park, 152 The Arches Cir., Deer Park AGES: All WHAT: Explore global cuisine, live entertainment, family activities, rides, shopping, and more all weekend long. WANT TO GO?: $5 – $65; free for children younger than 7. tanger.com

Creatures of the Night: Lantern Walk and Wildlife WHEN: Friday, Oct. 9, 6 – 8:30 pm WHERE: Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown AGES: 5 – 12 WHAT: Experience a softly lit pumpkin lantern walk, animal presentations, and the chance to learn about Halloween’s most feared (and most misunderstood) animals.

WANT TO GO?: $20. (631) 979–6344, sweetbriarnc.org

Kids Pirate Shows at Montauk Point Lighthouse WHEN: Oct. 10 & 11, 12 pm, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm WHERE: Montauk Point Lighthouse, 2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk AGES: 5 – 8 WHAT: The Kings of the Coast Pirates invite you to help solve the Curse of Abigail the Ghost of the Lighthouse and search for the treasure! WANT TO GO?: (631) 204– 9331, montaukhistoricalsociety. org

Montauk Chamber of Commerce’s 45th Annual Fall Fest Weekend WHEN: Oct. 10 – 11, Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm WHERE: Montauk Town Green, 743 Montauk Highway, Montauk AGES: 5 and up WHAT: It’s a weekend of fall themed fun with kid’s activities, local band performances, delicious eats, the annual Clam Chowder contest on Saturday, and more. WANT TO GO?: Free admission. visitmontauk.org

Open Mic Night at Hampton Coffee Company WHEN: Friday, Oct. 23, 6 – 8 pm WHERE: Hampton Coffee

Company, 31 Shinnecock Road, Hampton Bays AGES: 11 – 18 WHAT: Young artists are invited to take the stage and showcase their talents in front of a live audience. WANT TO GO?: Free. southamptontownny.gov

Haunted Village WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 24, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: Southampton History Museum, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: The past comes alive through Long Island’s own haunted legends, with live 19th-century music, pumpkin painting, and historic superstitions that inspired modern spooky traditions. WANT TO GO?: Free. southamptonhistory.org

Disney Pixar’s COCO Liveto-film Concert WHEN: Friday, Oct. 30, 6:30 pm WHERE: Staller Center For the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Experience the beloved film Coco like never before in this vibrant concert presentation, bringing the story’s rich musical world to life. WANT TO GO?: $26 – $41. (631) 632–2787, stallercenter. com

October 2026 | Long Island Family

HEALTH

Tips for Kids with Food Allergies While at School BY ZOYA TREYSTER, MD

ow that the kids are back to school it is a busy and exciting time. For parents of kids with food allergies, it can also bring a lot of stress. As an allergist and a mom, I know this all too well. A lot of parents ask me, “How would you treat your own kid?” That’s easy for me to answer because I’ve walked that path myself. I understand both the medical and emotional realities of raising a child with food allergies. I hope the tips below will help alleviate some of your back-to-school stress. With preparation, you can feel confident that your child is safe when away from home and help them have a successful new school year. Build Your School Team Early Schedule an in-person review of your child’s allergens and emergency action plan with their teacher. This is especially important for younger children. During back-to-school nights, it’s also helpful to educate the other parents in your child’s class about their allergens and offer suggestions for inclusive snacks and holiday parties. In the U.S., roughly two children in every classroom have food allergies, so by initiating the conversation, you could be helping many other families as well. You may consider sharing a list of allergy-safe foods with interested parents or creating a support group for parents of children with food allergies. Retest Allergies Before the First Day of School Allergies can change over time. It’s recommended that food-allergic patients be tested annually by a specialized allergist. This is especially important for young children, whose allergies can evolve quickly. Some children outgrow certain allergies and develop new ones before age six. Ask about food allergy treatment options, not just avoidance strategies. An annual visit is also the time to update epinephrine prescriptions. Earlier this year,

30 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

the FDA cleared Neffy ®, the needle-free epinephrine nasal spray, for children who weigh 33 pounds or more, with no minimum age requirement. Give Kids the Words, Not Just the Plan Children with food allergies are twice as likely to be bullied as their peers. Giving your child a simple script to explain why they can’t eat certain foods, such as “I can’t eat that because it has peanuts” or “Eating that makes my stomach hurt,” can help them avoid embarrassment or shame. Extend the Plan Beyond the Classroom Door Bus drivers, coaches, and after-school staff are often left out of allergy planning. Making sure they understand your child’s food allergies can provide another layer of support. For older children heading to college, encourage them to inform roommates, resident advisors (RAs), and dining hall managers about their

allergies to help them stay safe. I was an allergist before I was a mom, but my son’s food allergy — and his life-changing treatment — changed my perspective as a physician. I am now more optimistic than ever about treatment options for food allergies. Simply avoiding foods that can make us sick should not be our only answer when effective treatment options exist. Address food allergies head-on with comprehensive diagnostics and proven, evidence-based treatments such as oral immunotherapy (OIT) and XOLAIR, which can significantly improve your child’s school experience. Starting OIT at the beginning of the school year can even allow a child to reach desensitization before the next school year begins. Board-certified allergist and immunologist Zoya Treyster, MD, oversees the Latitude Food Allergy Care clinic in White Plains, New York. Latitude is the leading network of clinics dedicated to treating food allergies, redefining food allergy care through advanced diagnostics, evidence-based approaches such as OIT, and personalized treatment plans.

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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

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