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

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October 2026 | New York Family

CONTENTS

OCTOBER 2026 NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 48

pg.50 pg. 16

pg. 40

FEATURES

STORIES & COLUMNS

10 | College Applications Breaking down the process

8 | Editor’s Letter

42 | Transit The MTA is making more room for baby 44 | Friendships The friendships that stretch and last

FALL/WINTER FUN 36 | Ultimate Fall/Winter Guide Family road trips you’ll love taking this season 40 | Ultimate Fall/Winter Guide Family fall and winter experiences to add to your adventure calendar

12 | College Who pays for college after divorce? 16 | Ask The Expert The SAT and ACT are back for some colleges: what this means for your applicant 20 | Education Choosing a middle or high school 28 | Family Day Out Fun carousels to visit 32 | Baby You just had a baby, now what? 46 | Family Day Out Pumpkin patches 50 | Health Tips for kids with food allergies when eating at school

4 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

pg. 32

FAMILY FUN 34 | Family Fun Fall bucket list for the family 48 | Calendar Family-friendly events happening this month

DIRECTORIES 22 | Middle High-School Listings

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October 2026 | New York 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 | New York 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! On the agenda? We have our family favorite, an autumn bucket list (page 34) ready to be added to your calendar. Our Ultimate Fall/Winter Guide shares family road trips (page 36) and seasonal experiences (page 40) worth exploring. And let’s not forget pumpkin patches (page 46), perfect for a quick afternoon or worth the day trip.

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

Then there’s school because there’s always something else to think about. Enter The College Playbook, helpful articles on the SATs (page 16), applications (page 10), paying for college (page 12), and the financial responsibilities that come with it. We’re also looking at how to choose a middle or high school (page 20), along with our Middle & High School Listings (page 22). 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

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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

10 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 | New York 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. This is because most of us do not go into a marriage expecting it not to work out, and much less predicting that one day you and your now ex will have to navigate the financial realities of this breakup. Yet, when a marriage ends, questions about money are not surprisingly the most stressful and confusing parts of the agreement process, especially for parents. From child support and shared expenses to school costs and healthcare, understanding who is responsible for what isn’t always straightforward. 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

12 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

questions parents have about the financial side of divorce, helping you better understand your options, your obligations, and how to make decisions that support your family’s future College is a major milestone for any family. How does divorce complicate that transition for parents and children? The process of applying for, selecting, and paying for college is often a test even for parents who have been co-parenting reasonably well for years. When divorced parents can manage to cooperate and communicate amicably, even without being best friends, things tend to be easier for everyone. This is true across the board, certainly including college-related conversations. When parents are at odds about anything and everything, including the college conversations, children can often get stuck in the middle and create all the stress and strife that comes along with that in any context. This is an exciting time for children as they prepare for a new chapter; they should not

have to expend energy navigating a dispute between their parents. 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

October 2026 | New York Family

COLLEGE

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 faroff 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 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. For example, the best financial agreements include a plan for items like: clothing; personal care items; personal care (haircuts, etc.); dorm setup; transportation to/from school; spending money; vehicle expenses such as any car payment, maintenance, and insurance, which often persist; if visits home are not equally divided among the parents, the child generally spends about a quarter of the year at home, which certainly has a cost in terms of maintaining a living space for the child and the actual expenses of having a child at home; off-campus living and meals after the first year, as most agreements only think

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“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.”

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. Understanding how the child is affected by the parents’ disagreements can inform where to find a reasonable resolution that you can live with, even if it’s not the ideal outcome, as opposed to really digging in on any given issue. Knowing the other party and how to engage in a way that will minimize conflict can also be helpful; as is understanding that there are some people who will never want to compromise because they are motivated by something other than the child’s best interests. These are generally the most difficult situations, because the reasonable parent is left with only bad options; still, that knowledge can be crucial in informing how to engage, where to give in, and where to dig in.

about dorm life; and more. How can parents separate financial disagreements from their relationship with their child support? A parent’s relationship with her/his child should never be linked with the financial arrangement between the parties. Therefore, a disagreement about the money should never enter the equation. Unfortunately, it is much more difficult to achieve this in practice than it is to say what should happen in theory. Generally, best practices include keeping children out of the middle of adult disputes and conversations and not using them as a way of relaying messages between the parents. Children should be as insulated as possible from their parents’ disagreements, because the most important thing for a child to know without any doubt is that s/he is supported and loved by both parents, regardless of all the other noise. 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

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, co-parenting shifts into a new stage. Clients think about the children leaving home as an end of co-parenting, but the reality for most families is that co-parenting continues in some way; certainly, co-existence continues well beyond emancipation. 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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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

16 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

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

“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.” 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

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. 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 | New York 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

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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.

Choose a bilingual foundation that opens minds and opens doors.

October 2026 | New York Family

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Cardinal Spellman High School 1 Cardinal Spellman Place admissions@cardinalspellman. org 718-881-8000 cardinalspellman.org Cardinal Spellman High School stands out as a leading co-educational, collegepreparatory Catholic institution rooted in a mission to inspire a culture of aspiration, academic excellence, leadership, and service. With a 100% graduation and college acceptance rate, it offers 30 AP and college credit courses. Over the past five years students earned over $380 million in college scholarships. The 13-acre campus is home to 30 sports teams and 50+ clubs, ensuring a well-rounded student experience.

East Harlem Scholars Academy 2050 2nd Ave., East Harlem 212-897-2897 1573 Madison Ave., East Harlem

212-348-2518 2017 First Ave., East Harlem 212-897-2898 enrollment@ eastharlemscholars.org EastHarlemScholars.org Discover East Harlem Scholars Academies, where they believe all children can and will succeed when provided a great PreK12 education. Enrollment remains open at East Harlem Scholars Academies, where they cultivate a nurturing environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, and creativity. With their dedicated faculty and cutting-edge curriculum, they empower students to thrive academically and emotionally. Join them on a journey where every child’s potential is unlocked. Sign up today by emailing enrollment@ eastharlemscholars.org.

The École 115 East 22nd Street, New York, NY 10014 bonjour@theEcole.org

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646-410-2238 theecole.org The École is an independent French-American bilingual school in New York City, serving students from age two through 8th Grade. Its Middle School combines the rigor of the French curriculum with the creativity and inquiry of American education, developing true bilingualism, biliteracy, and strong academic outcomes. Graduates attend leading high schools in New York and beyond, with personalized high-school placement support. Those wishing to continue a FrenchAmerican pathway may also choose its partnership with Léman Manhattan Preparatory School.

EF Academy 582 Columbus Ave., Thornwood, NY academy.admissions@ef.com 914-495-6056 efacademy.org Experience a high school that prepares you for the future

and beyond at EF Academy, a private day and boarding school with students from over 60 nationalities, including the US. Explore a variety of clubs, sports, activities, field trips, and diverse courses across every subject, with the option to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Benefit from personalized university guidance, critical thinking courses, and a global perspective in every classroom, ensuring an education that opens doors worldwide.

George Jackson Academy 104 St. Marks Place, New York, NY 10009 admissions@GJAcademy.org 212-228-6789 gjacademy.org George Jackson Academy is NYC’s only independent middle school for bright boys from all incomes, with 100% of families receiving financial aid. GJA offers a rigorous curriculum, engaging instruction, and unique classes like

A unique French-American school in the heart of Manhattan. The École is an independent, ol French-American bilingual school nity serving an international community of Maternelle-to-Middle School students in New York City.

Find out more: theEcole.org

October 2026 | New York Family

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

fencing and Muay Thai. High School Placement begins in seventh grade with test and interview preparation, essay writing and an exploration of schools. Visit www.gjacademy.org/events to attend an open house or schedule a tour.

The Gillen Brewer School 410 East 92nd St. admissions@gillenbrewer.com 212-831-3667 gillenbrewer.com The Gillen Brewer School expands possibilities for K to 8th-grade students with a wide range of languagebased learning disabilities. Gillen Brewer’s integrated, academic-therapeutic approach and strong family partnerships help students make meaningful strides forward, becoming learners who are proud of their progress, prepared to engage with the world, and excited to explore.

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.

The IDEAL School of Manhattan 5 Hanover Square, New York, NY, 10004

Together, We See the Possibilities.

A K-8 special education school serving students with a broad range of language-based learning disabilities. Discover Gillen Brewer’s: Integrated academic and therapeutic program Supportive school-home partnership Authentic school experience www.gillenbrewer.com

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JKemp@theidealschool.org 212-769-1699 theidealschool.org The IDEAL School of Manhattan provides a new kind of education. IDEAL expands the definition of diversity to include ability and economic status. Generous financial assistance packages build a student body that is more diverse than any other private school. IDEAL’s robust academic program is designed to meet students where they are to reach their goals. Schedule a visit or join an open house to learn more about this unique K-12+ school.

Kennedy International School 225 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017 admissions@ kennedyinternational.org 212-681-1877, ext. 123 kennedyinternational.org At Kennedy International School, every student is known, supported, and challenged through personal-

ized learning and thoughtful differentiation. Kennedy’s rigorous bilingual education strengthens cognitive, cultural, social, and communication skills. In Grades 6–9, students follow French Ministry and New York State curricula, with 75% of instruction in French and 25% in English. A 9th Grade International Track provides an entry point for non-French-speaking students. Grades 9–10 build the academic foundation for the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12, where students may earn the Bilingual Diploma, an opportunity offered by only a small number of schools in the Americas and a reflection of Kennedy’s deeply rooted commitment to bilingual education.

Lycée Français de New York 505 East 75th Street, New York, NY 10221 communications@lfny.org 212-369-1400 lfny.org

October 2026 | New York Family

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

The Middle and High School programs (Grades 6–12) at the Lycée Français de New York combine the rigor of the French national curriculum with dynamic American independent school practices. Through immersive bilingual instruction, co-taught classes, and personalized support—from middle school advisory to dedicated college counseling—students develop essential autonomy and critical thinking. Enhanced by NYC-based learning, athletics, and service, our students graduate prepared for top global universities as confident, compassionate citizens of culture and courage.

The Mary Louis Academy 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.

ronment defined by academic rigor, artistic expression, and athletic achievement. At the heart of the program is the renowned Harkness method, where students engage in dynamic, collaborative discussions that develop critical thinking, confidence, and leadership skills. From a college-level Science Research Program to the state-of-theart Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, students are challenged to innovate, create, and excel.

The Masters School

The Montessori School of New York International

49 Clinton Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 admission@mastersny.org 914-479-6420 Mastersny.org The Masters School offers an exceptional education for day, 5-, and 7-day boarding students. On a picturesque 96-acre campus overlooking the Hudson River, students in grades 5-12 thrive in an envi-

347 East 55th Street, Sutton Place, New York, NY 10022 info@montessorischoolny.com 212-223-4630 montessorischoolny.com Montessori is especially powerful in Grades 1–8, when students are ready to take greater ownership of their learning. With clear expectations, individualized guidance, small classes, and

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mastery-based learning, older students are challenged to think deeply, work independently, and take responsibility for their progress. Through collaboration, projects, research, and presentations, they develop critical thinking, problem-solving, time management, and leadership skills—building the confidence, independence, and self-direction needed to succeed in high school and beyond.

Rodeph Sholom School 10 West 84th St., UWS 646-438-8658 rodephsholomschool.org Rodeph Sholom School, a Reform Jewish Day School located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, offers an enriching educational experience from Early Childhood through 8th Grade. The school is dedicated to fostering purposedriven leaders within a warm and welcoming community. Its curriculum integrates

academic rigor with joyful exploration, deeply infused with Jewish values, to inspire a love of learning and a strong sense of responsibility towards oneself and society. Students and families from all backgrounds are welcomed and encouraged to thrive in this supportive environment.

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.

St. John’s Prep 21-21 Crescent St., Astoria 718-721-7200 stjohnsprepschool.org Paving the way for Leaders of Tomorrow for over 150 years, the school is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and instilling the principles and values of the Catholic Faith in a positive, nurturing environment. A rigorous academic curriculum, an engaging spiritual program, meaningful service experiences, and extensive extracurricular opportunities establish a strong foundation for life. Advanced Placement courses are offered in all subject areas. St. John’s Prep has an academic affiliation with St. John’s University. Fall Open House, Saturday, October 17th.

St. Vincent Ferrer High School 151 East 65th Street & Lexington Ave, New York, NY

(212) 535-4680 saintvincentferrer.com At St. Vincent Ferrer High School, young women are empowered to excel and thrive in an environment that nurtures intellectual, social, and spiritual growth. Through rigorous academics, competitive athletics, and enriching global experiences “Ferrer” life helps every young woman discover where she belongs. With over 138 years of academic excellence, the school supports each student every step of the way, preparing her to become a responsible, principled, and confident member of the global community. They are hosting their annual Fall Open House on Saturday, October 17 from 11am – 3pm and sign up is required. There will be a second, smaller session on October 22. Learn about the wonderful school community and find your daughter’s second home at Ferrer.

Zeta Manhattan Middle School 401 West 218th Street, New York, NY 10034 (646) 480-1654 enroll@zetaschools.org zetaschools.org Among NYC’s highestperforming schools, Zeta Manhattan Middle School combines academic excellence, independence, and self-discovery as part of Zeta’s Pre-K–12 education. Beginning in Grade 6, students take on rigorous coursework, including Regents-level Algebra I and Biology, while exploring robotics, engineering design, and entrepreneurship through Z Lab. Specialty clubs—including chess, dance, orchestra, Taekwondo, and soccer—give students opportunities to build confidence through choice and exploration. Individualized guidance helps students develop ownership of their education while preparing for Zeta High School, college, and life.

St. Vincent Ferrer High School

Open House Saturday, October 17 | 11am- 3pm Find Your Place. Discover Your Future.

saintvincentferrer.com

212-535-4680 535-4680 0 October 2026 | New York Family

FAMILY DAY OUT

Fun Carousels to Visit BY NEW YORK FAMILY

hether it is a day out near your home base or as part of a day road trip, there’s no better way to celebrate childhood than to go for a ride on a carousel in New York. Outdoor carousels represent the epitome of fun, whether it’s at an amusement park, county fair, park, or zoo. Here, you’ll find details on each carousel, including its location, hours, price per ride, and description. As always, please call to confirm the carousel’s opening before leaving the house.

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Carousels in Manhattan Friedsam Memorial Carousel (The Central Park Carousel) Central Park (Mid-park at 65th St.) 212-452-0707 Hours: Daily, 10 am-6 pm Price: $4 per ride Located in the heart of Central Park, this handcrafted carousel’s 57 horses run laps to vintage organ music. Note: There is often a long line to ride in the summer. SeaGlass Carousel Battery Park (entrance at State and Water

Streets), Lower Manhattan (212) 344-3491 Hours: Daily, 9 am-9 pm Price: $6, $55 for 10 This aquatic-themed carousel is made entirely of glass and steel and features 30 sea creatures under color-changing LED lights, making you feel like you are in an underwater garden. Le Carrousel Bryant Park, West 40th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Midtown (212) 768-4242 Hours: Vary by season: January 11 am–7 pm daily; February Thursdays–Sundays 11 am–6 pm; March–May 11 am–7 pm daily; June–August 10 am–8 pm daily; September– December 11 am–8 pm daily Price: $5 each from Jan. 5–Nov. 2 and $6 from

Apply Today for Spring 2027!

With 60 years of innovative education experience and 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.

30 Seminary Drive, Barrytown, New York Learn more simons-rock.edu

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 | New York Family

FAMILY DAY OUT

Nov. 3–Jan. 4, with 10-ride discount cards available for $42 and $51, respectively. Hear the sounds of Paris and the French Cabaret as you ride one of the 14 prancing animals, including 10 horses, a deer, a rabbit, a frog, and a cat. This carousel, designed to complement the park’s French classical style, was created by artists at Fabricon Carousel Company, which was based in Brooklyn.

carousel that is also a designated New York City landmark. Take a spin on one of the 49 horses or ride in a chariot as you listen to vintage organ music.

Carousels in Brooklyn B&B Carousel 1615 Riegelmann Boardwalk (in Luna Park), Coney Island (718) 373-5862 Hours: Check online for varying hours Price: 4 credits This historic carousel, built in 1906, features 50 wooden horses. It has been completely restored and moved to Steeplechase Plaza. For updates, see the website or call.

Carousels in the Bronx Bug Carousel Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd. (at Fordham Road) (718) 220-5100 Hours: Open year-round, but hours change seasonally. Check for up-to-date hours. Price: Included with the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket type. Additional $7 per person with a Limited Admission ticket. Free general admission for all on Wednesdays. This carousel is composed entirely of bugs and butterflies and is located next to the Butterfly Garden, where you can see live butterflies in flight and flowers in bloom. This carousel is accessible to manual wheelchairs.

Jane’s Carousel Brooklyn Bridge Park at the East River, Dumbo (718) 222-2502 Hours: Seasonal schedule—summer 10 am– 6:50 pm (closed Tuesdays), fall and spring 11 am–5:50 pm (closed Mondays and Tuesdays), and winter 11 am–5:50 pm (closed Mondays– Wednesdays) Price: $4 per ride Named after artist and Dumbo resident Jane Walentas, the 1922 structure was refurbished and reopened in 2011. It has 1,200 lights, and the carousel is set into a pavilion designed by award-winning architect Jean Nouvel.

Carousels on Staten Island Carousel for All Children Willowbrook Park, Eton Place at Richmond Avenue (718) 677-2165 Hours: 11 am-5:45 pm; Saturdays and Sundays in May, Friday through Sunday in June, and Thursday through Sunday in July and August Price: $3 per person Choose your steed from the 51 hand-carved and colorfully painted animals that adorn this Victorian-style wooden merry-goround next to the duck pond. The carousel is accessible for those with physical challenges.

Carousels in Queens Flushing Meadows Carousel Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Fantasy Forest Amusement Park, 111th Street at 55th Ave., Flushing (718) 788-2676 Hours: Closed Mondays; check online for varying hours on other days Price: 1 ticket, $4.50 Moved to Queens from Coney Island for the 1964 World’s Fair, this classic carousel is located next to the Queens Zoo and about a 2-minute walk from the New York Hall of Science.

Carousels on Long Island Nunley’s Carousel at Long Island Children’s Museum Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City (516) 224-5800 Hours: Wednesdays-Sundays, 12:30 pm-3 pm (hours may vary) Price: $4 per ride; $35 for a 10-ride ticket (nonmembers); $3 per ride; $25 for a 10-ride ticket (members) A beloved piece of Long Island history, Nunley’s Carousel has been delighting riders for more than a century. The beautifully restored carousel features 41 hand-carved wooden animals, including 30 jumping horses, 11 standing horses, a lion, and chariots. Kids can enjoy a classic carousel ride while taking in a piece of Long Island’s amusement park past. The carousel is located in a pavilion next to the museum and is open year-round.

Forest Park Carousel Northwest Entrance (Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive), Forest Park (718) 788-2676 Hours: Check website Price: 1 ticket, $4.75 Created in 1890, this carousel is the only

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Greenport Antique Carousel Jess Owen Carousel House, Mitchell Park, Greenport (631) 477-0248 Price: $3 per person Hours: Seasonal schedule—summer Sunday– Friday 11 am–7 pm and Saturday 11 am–8 pm; Labor Day 11 am–5 pm; after Labor Day weekends 11 am–5 pm Greenport’s carousel, which is 100 years old and features hand-painted horses in a lovely glasshouse with a view of the water. The Shoppes Grand Carousel 5768 Route 25A, Wading River, NY 631-929-3500 Hours: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays; Wednesday–Sunday 12 pm–6 pm Price:$5/ride token or 5 tokens for $20 This carousel is handicap accessible and features a unique variety of animals for all to enjoy! It includes twelve galloping horses, a hungry cat, a radiant zebra, a prancing reindeer, a stately rooster, a cheerful bunny, and a majestic dragon. There is also a chariot with enough seating for the whole family. All eighteen animals are jumpers. The twelve horses are “Country Fair” style, with vibrant colors and jewels. Carousels in Westchester County Playland’s Grand Carousel and Kiddy Carousel Exit 19 off I-95, Rye (914) 813-7010 Hours: Specific days and hours vary; check the website for a full schedule Price: Free admission to the park, $15 ride-allday wristbands. Playland’s Grand Carousel, constructed in 1915, features 66 horses with jewel-studded harnesses and three handicap-accessible chariots, all of which circle a rare Gavioli band organ. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall; kids shorter than 42 inches must ride with an adult. Carousels in Bergen County, NJ Millennium Carousel at the Bergen County Zoo Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus (201) 364-3100 Hours: Open Thursday-Sunday, 10 am- 5 pm Price: $3 per ride plus zoo admission. Tickets must be purchased at the zoo’s train station. Spend the day exploring the zoo, then hop on a carousel featuring colorful animal friends inspired by the creatures you just saw.

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Bilingual Learning, Individual Pathways, Global Perspectives L ocated in New York City’s Flatiron District, The École is an independent French-American bilingual school serving students from age two through 8th Grade. Its educational model combines the rigor of the French curriculum with the creativity, inquiry, and criticalthinking approach of American education, preparing students to learn, communicate, and think confidently in two languages and across two cultures. By Middle School, students have developed a high level of proficiency in both French and English. They continue to study core academic subjects within a bilingual program while benefiting from a broad curriculum encompassing science, technology, mathematics, humanities, languages, visual and performing arts, music, and sports. Small classes allow teachers to know students well, provide individualized support, and challenge them as they become increasingly independent learners. Individual choice also becomes an important part of the Middle School experience. Morning and afternoon enrichment electives are integrated into the school day, allowing students to pursue their interests and passions and build increasingly individualized learning pathways. Beyond academics, students have numerous opportunities to develop their voices as leaders, serving as House Captains, Student Ambassadors, and members of Student Council, among other roles. High-school preparation is an important part of the final Middle School years. The École provides personalized guidance to students and families as they explore the many options available after 8th Grade. Graduates are accepted to and attend leading independent, public, specialized, international, and bilingual high schools in New York City and beyond, allowing each student to pursue the educational path best suited to their interests, strengths, and future goals. For students who wish to continue in a French-American bilingual program, The École also offers an optional high-school

pathway through its partnership with Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. Students can continue French-language coursework in 9th and 10th Grade before pursuing a bilingual International Baccalaureate Diploma in 11th and 12th Grade. The École’s Elementary & Middle

School Building at 115 East 22nd Street provides dedicated spaces for academics, STEM and design & technology, art, music, performing arts, and sports. Within a close-knit international community, The École prepares bilingual, intellectually curious, and increasingly independent students for high school and beyond.

October 2026 | New York Family

BABY

You Just Had a Baby, Now What? A little help for the next steps BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD

went through some crazy hormonal shifts while pregnant with my oldest son. I was this bump with a hurricane of emotions, and by week 42, I was more than ready, obviously, to have him out of my body and in the flesh. By then, I had done what many of us do before having a baby: the appointments and registries, baby showers and nursery plans. Books to read. Advice to absorb, or not. A trad wife or two to follow if you want to go the DIY jam route. And, of course, countless convos about what life would be like once the baby finally arrived. Then, one day, the baby is here. Which, honestly, is when the real question began. Because we spend a lot of time preparing for the arrival. And rightfully so. But after all that time thinking and planning for this baby, something can feel a little anticlimactic once they are actually here. The guests go home, the meal train stops, and it’s you and this new human. There is love, of course. The kind that can rearrange you. But there is also a body to get to know again. A relationship that may be finding its footing. Friendships. Work. Your sense of self. The dreams you had before you became someone’s mother, and the new ones you might not even know you have yet. The baby, meanwhile, has needs of their own—constant, immediate, and everchanging. You’re in this bubble, but there’s also a lot going on. In those first few months, you may learn things about yourself. Meet new people you may never have met otherwise. Discover new capacities. New limits. New versions of joy. And somewhere in the middle of all of this, there may be a quiet—or roaring, for some—pressure to figure things out. Yet maybe you’re not supposed to. You Don’t Need All the Answers Yet I think there can be a lot of pressure after

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having a baby to quickly get yourself, and your life, back into some kind of order. I wish I could go back and tell the shellshocked version of myself—the one who was exhausted but content, but also wondering how everything would be managed—that not every question needs an immediate answer. And to CHILL. Here is what you can prioritize: Get the baby sleeping. Get yourself sleeping.

Work out feeding. Figure out childcare. Figure out when you’re going back to work, if you’re going back to work, and what any of that looks like now. Be open to newness in your relationships And, somewhere in there, figure out who you are now. But be casual. You have a newborn! Some things will become clearer with time. You don’t need to decide what your

career looks like forever while you’re still in the newborn haze. You don’t need to understand exactly how motherhood has changed you before you’ve even had the chance to live in it for a while. And you definitely don’t need to have your whole new identity figured out just because you now have a baby. Find the People Who Help You Find Your Way One thing I recommend, though: if you don’t have a friend or a group of moms, try to connect with someone who’s a season ahead of you when it comes to kids. Be open to that mom who is on baby number three at daycare, even if she’s not the same age or doesn’t live in the same neighborhood as you. Or the mom who, when you tell her about that morning’s diaper blowout, is there to listen and support. These are the friends who can slice right through the BS of parent culture and remind you that there is no one right way to do this. That the thing everyone online is obsessing over might not actually be right, or matter, for you.

Perhaps the goal isn’t to love every moment or create some Instagramfilter version of motherhood. Maybe it’s allowing yourself to be honest about the experience you’re actually having. Make Room for the Life You Actually Have You can love your baby more than you ever thought possible and still miss parts of your before-baby life. You can have the hardest day and still feel grateful, even if you’re overwhelmed. These feelings and experiences don’t cancel each other out because they’re all part of this new chapter. And it’s parenthood,

which can be wonderful, hard, beautiful, or messy, fulfilling and exhausting. And perhaps the goal isn’t to love every moment or create some Instagram-filter version of motherhood. Maybe it’s allowing yourself to be honest about the experience you’re actually having. Give Yourself Some Freakin’ Space, Babe This might be the biggest thing I would tell a new parent: You just had a baby. You don’t have to become the perfect parent overnight. Take a beat. Life has changed, but you don’t have to understand exactly what that change means right away. Some parts of your old life may return. Some may not. You may miss some things and be relieved to leave others behind. And that’s the thing about this chapter: you don’t actually know all of it yet. Maybe that’s scary sometimes. But it’s also kind of exciting. You don’t have all the answers because the story isn’t finished. You had a baby. No spoilers. And honestly? How exciting is that?

NEW YORK FAMILY PARTNER

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Nestled along a peaceful, tree-lined street, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.1-bath Center Hall Colonial blends timeless style with comfortable modern living. Ideally located just minutes from highly regarded Washington Grade School, recognized for its Blue Ribbon excellence, this freshly painted home offers an inviting layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The first-floor features gracious formal living and dining rooms, while the spacious kitchen with center island and breakfast area opens seamlessly to the family room, where a gas fireplace creates a warm and welcoming gathering space. A powder room and convenient laundry area complete the main level. Upstairs, retreat to the generously sized primary suite with a private en suite bath. Three additional spacious bedrooms and a full hall bath

complete the second floor. The finished lower level adds valuable living space with endless possibilities for a recreation room, home office, gym or playroom. Outside, the private backyard and patio provide the perfect setting for al fresco dining, entertaining or relaxing.

A two-car attached garage completes this wonderful home, offering the ideal combination of space, comfort and location. Frank D. Isoldi. Coldwell Banker frankisoldi@gmail.com, 908-787-5990

October 2026 | New York Family

FAMILY FUN

Fall

Bucket List BY NEW YORK FAMILY

all in New York ushers in a season of crisp air and family adventures. From free fun (fall leaves in Central Park, movies under the stars) to ticketed experiences, fall day trips (corn mazes!), and more. Here are 25 ways to make the most of autumn in and around New York City.

1. Pick Your Own Apples and Pumpkins You don’t have to go too far to get your fall farm fix. Queens County Farm Museum has a pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, and plenty of seasonal fun right here in NYC. For a bigger day trip, head to Alstede Farms in New Jersey, Masker Orchards in Warwick, or other Hudson Valley-area farms for apple picking, cider donuts, hayrides, and more. Queens Farm’s 2026 fall programming includes a pumpkin patch throughout October and its Amazing Maize Maze.

4. Get Lost in a Corn Maze Ready to put your family’s navigation skills to the test? Queens County Farm Museum is home to NYC’s famous Amazing Maize Maze, while Harbes Family Farm on the East End of Long Island offers apple and pumpkin picking, a corn maze, and other fall activities.

5. Walk the High Line and Visit the Whitney Take a crisp fall stroll along the High Line, then pop into the Whitney Museum of American Art for some culture and incredible city views. Visitors 25 and under receive free admission every day, while the museum also offers Free Friday Nights and Free Second Sundays. 6. Spend the Day at Wave Hill Head to Wave Hill for Hudson River views, gorgeous fall foliage, gardens, and family programming. It is one of those NYC spots that can

2. Take a Central Park Foliage Walk Take a stroll through Central Park as the leaves begin to turn. NYC foliage typically peaks later than it does Upstate, making the park one of the best places to soak up fall without leaving the city.

7. Catch an Outdoor Movie New York parks offer movies under the stars before the weather becomes too chilly for kids to actually enjoy. Check out nycgovparks.org for listings throughout New York City, and don’t forget snacks and a blanket.

3. Join the Village Halloween Parade On October 31, head to Greenwich Village for the iconic Village Halloween Parade. Whether you dress up and march or grab a spot along the route to watch, it is one of those classic NYC Halloween experiences.

8. Sip Some Hot Apple Cider Is it even fall if you don’t drink at least one cup of hot apple cider? Pick one up at a local farm stand, neighborhood café, or a GrowNYC Greenmarket and fully lean into your autumn era.

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9. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge Yes, it can get crowded, but walking the Brooklyn Bridge is still one of the most iconic things to do in NYC, and the views are especially good on a crisp fall day.

10. Go Rowboating in Central Park Head to the Central Park Boathouse and take the family out on the lake. Boats are firstcome, first-served; children must be at least 3 feet tall, and current rental prices are $25 per hour Monday through Thursday and $30 per hour Friday through Sunday. 11. Take Advantage of Culture Pass If you have a library card from the Brooklyn Public Library, New York Public Library, or Queens Public Library, check out Culture Pass and reserve free admission to more than 100 participating cultural institutions. 12. Take a Fall Road Trip Hop in the car and explore the Hudson Valley, Catskills, Berkshires, or nearby parts of New Jersey and Connecticut for foliage, farms, hiking, small towns, and peak fall vibes. 13. Take the Ferry to Governors Island Hop on a ferry and spend a fall day exploring Governors Island. Walk or bike around the island, explore the playgrounds, and take in those unbeatable Manhattan skyline views. 14. Spend a Fall Day at Prospect Park Enjoy the changing leaves and pockets of woodland at Prospect Park, then make a full

day of it. Visit the Lefferts Historic House, take a ride on the carousel, explore the lake, or hit one of the park’s many playgrounds. 15. See NYC From the Top of the Rock Take the family up to Top of the Rock for sweeping views of the city, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the surrounding skyline. 16. Take in a Broadway Show Hop on the train and head to Broadway for a family theater day. Favorites like The Lion King and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child are popular choices, but check current listings and age recommendations before booking. 17. Play at the LEGO Store Head to the LEGO Store Fifth Avenue for a fun stop for brick-loving kids. Check out the larger-than-life displays and see what handson experiences are available during your visit. 18. Visit the Harry Potter Store Bring your little witches and wizards to

Harry Potter New York. The massive store is packed with photo ops, merchandise, interactive experiences, and plenty of magic for Potter fans. 19. Free Admission at PS1 for All Check out PS1 (MoMA), which, thanks to a generous donation, has free admission for all until January 2029. 20. Explore Little Island Visit Little Island, the unique public park floating off Pier 55. With winding paths, adventurous landscaping, performance spaces, and Hudson River views, it makes for a fun family stop. 21. Ride the NYC Ferry Hop aboard the NYC Ferry and turn getting around the city into an adventure. Explore different neighborhoods and take in the skyline from the water. 22. Take in the Views at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Head up to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt for

a sky-high NYC experience, complete with immersive art, mirrored rooms, and dramatic views. 23. Explore the American Museum of Natural History Exploring the American Museum of Natural History never gets old. New York State residents can take advantage of pay-whatyou-wish general admission, while some special exhibitions and experiences require separate tickets. 24. Take the Staten Island Ferry It is iconic, offers incredible views of the Statue of Liberty—and it’s free. Catch the Staten Island Ferry at Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. 25. Go on a Fall Farmers’ Market Crawl Make a weekend morning of visiting a GrowNYC Greenmarket. Stock up on apples, cider, seasonal produce, and fresh-baked goods—and, obviously, grab cider donuts if you spot them.

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.

October 2026 | New York 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.

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 | New York 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

38 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

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!

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 | New York Family

ULTIMATE FALL/WINTER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Family Fall/Winter Experiences

all is the perfect time in New York to explore the many familyfriendly activities throughout and beyond the city. Once the summer crowds thin out, head outside into the crisp fall air to discover all the outdoor fun, cultural institutions, hidden gems, and neighborhood hotspots you may have missed. These experiences will inspire you to discover something the entire family will enjoy

Ridge Hill 1 Ridge Hill Blvd, Yonkers NY 10710 914-207-2920 ridgehill.com

Ridgetoberfest brings all the best parts of fall to Ridge Hill for a lively day of seasonal fun, entertainment, and community. Gather your family and friends for Oktoberfest-inspired food and drinks, live music, a DJ, photo ops, interactive games, and plenty of fall festivities for all ages. Little ones can join in the fun with trickor-treating on Oct. 24, collecting candy from Ridge Hill’s on-site retailers and restaurants. With seven restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and plenty to explore, there’s no shortage of reasons to make a day of it. Whether you’re stopping by for the festivities or sticking around to shop, dine, and soak up the season, Ridge Hill is the perfect place to celebrate fall together.

40 NewYorkFamily.com | October 2026

ULTIMATE FALL/WINTER FAMILY FUN GUIDE

Storybook Land 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 storybookland.com

Fall Into Fun at Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. For nearly 30 years, fall at Storybook Land has meant pumpkins, hayrides and a little extra seasonal magic. Beginning September 19, the third-generation, family-owned amusement park in Egg Harbor Township will once again transform for its annual Fall Into Fun Festival, followed by its beloved Trick or Treat Weekends in October. Throughout the season, families can enjoy Storybook Land’s classic rides and attractions surrounded by colorful mums, hay bales, cornstalks and pumpkins. Young guests can visit the Pumpkin Patch to select and decorate a mini pumpkin, hop aboard the Happy Hay Ride for a trip through the park, and make their way through Elmer’s Hay-Mazin’ Maze. Creating the autumn wonderland is an attraction in itself. Each year, approximately 650 mums, 1,350 hay bales, 800 cornstalks, and 12 bins of pumpkins and gourds, many sourced from area farms, help bring the season to life. For many families, the tradition spans generations. Parents who once visited Storybook Land for fall festivities as children now return

with little ones of their own. The celebration continues October 17, 18, 24, and 25 with Trick or Treat Weekends, a Halloween experience created especially for young families. Costumed guests can trick or treat at 12 locations throughout the park while enjoying rides, attractions, the hayride and maze—all with plenty of Halloween fun and none of the scares. Fall Into Fun runs on select dates through October 16. Tickets and event details are available through Storybook Land’s website.

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx 800-433-4149 bzeducation@wcs.org cpzeducation@wcs.org nyaeducation@wcs.org ppzeducation@wcs.org qzeducation@wcs.org

WCS Education is NYC’s best-kept secret for fall family fun. From exploring nature and seeing animals up close to discovering new ways to experience your favorite zoos and aquariums, there’s something for everyone— all within city limits. The Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Education Department was the first of its kind in the country and continues to offer award-winning programming for all ages, bringing learning to life through hands-on experiences. Fall adventures include sensory-inclusive mornings at the zoo, aquarium sleepovers, and festive Halloween fun like Boo at the Zoo in the Bronx and the New York Aquarium’s Ascarium, where costumes are encouraged. For a calmer option, the Central Park Zoo’s sensoryfriendly FaBOOlous Farm Friends Family Mornings lets families enjoy the season at a gentler pace. School-break camp is back across all five boroughs, and Scouts can

kick off the year with special programs at limited WCS parks. Parents can get in on the fun, too, with mocktail mixer evenings at Prospect Park Zoo, the New York Aquarium’s Krillin It Yoga Series, and The Keeper Experience at Central Park Zoo. Ready for more? Project Dragonfly’s Advanced Inquiry Program offers hands-on learning, from field studies to a master’s degree in biology. Make this fall a little wilder. See what’s happening at all five parks at bronxzoo.com/learn/children-and-family-programs! October 2026 | New York Family

TRANSIT

The MTA Is Making More Room for Baby What the new bus stroller policy means for families BY DANIELLE RAMOS

e’ve all been there before, boarding a bus and trying to hold a baby or toddler, your phone, and a diaper bag while folding up the stroller. It used to send me into a panic when I got new strollers and was unsure how to close them up quickly. And I don’t know if you’ve done this before, but when I knew I would be traveling by bus, I’d swap out our big stroller, the one with the reclining seat and all the cushy padding, for the flimsy umbrella stroller instead, just because it folded faster. Never mind that it did nothing for a sleeping kid. Then I’d still end up folding it in a rush the second the bus rounded the corner, chasing a bored toddler while trying to hold my spot in a crowded bus line. It was often a nightmare, no matter what option I chose. Now, the MTA is finally giving parents a break. The agency announced last August that it’s expanding its open stroller pilot to every city bus. That means parents and caregivers won’t have to take their kid out of the stroller or fold it up just to get on board. There will be a designated spot where the stroller can stay open for the whole ride. The new policy started on a depot by depot basis and will be on all local and SBS buses by the end of this year. This isn’t a brand-new idea. The MTA has been testing it since 2023, starting with a handful of routes and just over 100 buses. It’s grown in phases since then, and now, to the relief of parents everywhere, it’s going citywide. How the New Open Stroller Policy Will Work on Buses It’s a godsend for families, but it’s not without

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Marc A. Hermann / MTA

The MTA is expanding its open stroller pilot to every city bus. That means parents and caregivers won’t have to take their kid out of the stroller or fold it up just to get on board. tradeoffs. Bus space is limited, and an open stroller naturally takes up more room than a folded one. When the pilot first launched, some disability advocates pushed back, worried that carving out space for strollers might

come at the expense of wheelchair users and others who already struggle to find room on a crowded bus. The MTA says the stroller areas are kept separate from wheelchair securement spots, and it continues to monitor the program for safety issues as it’s scaled up. There’s also the practical question of how a stroller stays put while a bus is braking, turning, or lurching through traffic, something the MTA says it’s been testing and adjusting along the way. On the upside, there’s a case to be made that this actually helps make better use of limited bus space, not less. When a stroller is folded, a mom usually needs an additional seat for their toddler, so having the child in the stroller already may free up an additional seat. Also, from a practical perspective, a child already seated comfortably in their own stroller may be asleep or resting and is generally more compliant than if they were ripped out of their stroller and instantly placed on a bus seat.

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October 2026 | New York Family

MOM STORIES

The Friendships That Stretch and the Ones That Shift For moms, the right support network can change over time BY DONNA DUARTE-LADD

eing a good friend is something I’ve had to schooled on over time. I have been learning to do this since preschool— seriously, I remember friend fun and drama that early on. And I’m not saying I was the only one who was always crappy. I think most of us have been working our sh*t out since pre-K! I’ve learned what it means to be a friend, and a grown-up one at that, and how to handle friendships over the years. Basically, I did great sometimes and not so great other times. I don’t think I fully understood how much my best friend had given to me until she had her first child. She’d gotten married and started her family years before I did. Something in me shifted. I knew that our friendship was

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changing. I had always been a little selfish, if I’m honest. A little bratty. I was nowhere near having a baby. Adulting was becoming a reality for all my friends, and this friendship was about to shift, and I had to meet it and be there for her. Not because I was afraid of losing the relationship, but because I couldn’t just show up for the fun stuff anymore. It was time to be all in. Besides missing family and friends, I was ready to move back to my hometown, and this baby—who was growing fast—was also the best reason. And I wanted that baby to know me. So it was a mix of being a better friend and letting a toddler know “I had her back.” So mature. I know. Honestly, it was about becoming a better version of myself inside a relationship that was growing rapidly. And I wanted in. I wanted to grow up, too, to be present.

Friendship could be its own newsletter. Just talking about it and all its layers and complexities is a feat. However, what I’ve found — and continue to find —is that as our priorities shift, so do we. I’ve watched myself reach for different people at different times, not always knowing why, but drawn to those who get it, who feel easy, who still fit. But something about being a mom has shown me that friendships don’t always stretch with us. The day-to-day pulls at us— more from our bodies, our schedules, our energy—and something has to give. We cancel. We forget to text back. We mean to reach out and then don’t. Or we just… change. Those “mommy friends” I had when my oldest was small—we were in the weeds together, like mom friends are. How could we not be? Any parent knows that with those PTA meetings and playdates... you’re now part

of a tribe. But it’s different now, and I miss the everyday connection. I always say to first-time mom friends: work through the rough patches and keep that connection. The grief we don’t name when a friendship fades is often like a breakup. No big talk. Just space that gets quieter, then wider, until you look up and realize it’s been months, then years. Some friendships end because of our faults. Sometimes it’s because one of us couldn’t see that the versions of ourselves we were when we knew each other had shifted too much. And, hell yes, when a close friendship isn’t what it used to be, it stings. There are friendships I know I didn’t do a great job of keeping going. At other times, I felt someone quietly let go of me, without any big drama. There are no villains here. Only humans. Just doing their best.

I’ve been thinking about friendships lately, especially now that I have fewer around since the kids are no longer babies. We’re not all hanging around at pickups and drop-offs these days. In the pyramid of mom cliques (yes, sorry, there are mom cliques unfortunately, get on board), there’s a real difference between how we make and keep friends during those early school years versus now, when the kids are walking themselves to school and (they think) don’t need us as much. It’s a new chapter of life, and it’s not always easy. Some friendships fade. Some stretch. Some surprise you by sticking around in new forms. And I think it’s worth talking about—because it’s not just our relationships changing, it’s us. To me, a real friendship is elastic. It stretches with time, distance, and chaos. It’s built on deep trust, not constant check-ins.

I’m loyal in that quiet, steady way. A wise old friend—ten years ahead of me in life (ha ha, when you’re 20 that feels SO OLD)—once said to me, after I asked her why she stayed close with someone who could be a lot: “I wouldn’t have any friends if I needed them to be perfect.” I always remember this as a reminder to myself that a friendship doesn’t need to be measured via perfection. Now, with some lessons under my belt and my kids spending time around my friends, I hope they also learn that friendship doesn’t have to be flawless to be real. My oldest sees it. He sees how I show up, my friendship with my ride-or-die bestie (his Godmother). He sees that a good one can stretch, take a few hits, even go quiet for a while, and still hold. And (I hope) he sees that showing up, imperfectly, messily, honestly, is more than enough. October 2026 | New York Family

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. New York City The Cityside Pumpkin Patch 8-08 Queens Plaza S, Long Island City 646-942-6807 The Cityside Pumpkin Patch is set to return to The Summer Club rooftop in Long Island City on October 3. This event promises an ultimate fall experience with over 10,000 pumpkins sourced from upstate New York, spread across a 25,000-square-foot rooftop space. Families can enjoy interactive photo opportunities, autumn-inspired treats, and signature activities like the Smash-o-Lantern Zone, Scarecrow Archery, face painting, and tarot card readings. It’s the perfect place for families looking for fall fun in the city. Tickets can be purchased at bucketlisters. com/experience/pumpkin-patch-in-nyc. Decker Farm Historic Richmond Town, 435 Richmond Hill Road, Staten Island 718-351-1611 Decker Farms features pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Complete with photo-ops and fall decorations, you will surely experience a picture-perfect moment when deciding which pumpkin to take home. And don’t miss the Pumpkin Chucking, Snack Wagon, Living History Demonstrations, and more! The patch is open Saturday, October 3, 2026, through Sunday, October 25, 2026. Queens County Farm 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy, Queens 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

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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. New Jersey Alstede Farms 1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester, NJ 908-879-7189 Head to Alstede Farms with your family to pick the freshest pumpkins! There are plenty of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes to choose from: orange and white, munchkins, gourds, and assorted winter squash. You can purchase a Pick-Your-Own ticket on their website prior to visiting. Admission to the Corn Maze and Blooming Giants sunflower trail is included. The park is open from 9 am to 6 pm daily. Demarest Farms 244 Wiermus Road, Hillsdale, NJ 201-666-0472 Demarest Farms’ pumpkin picking rolls out on Sept. 26th. Make your reservation on their site and pick out the perfect pumpkin. Once you make a reservation, you will be given a date and time to arrive at the farm. The cost for general admission is $9.70, which includes free parking, entrance to the pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and hayrides available Saturday and Sunday; plus $14.01+ for the largest pumpkin you pick. Children 2 and under can enter for free. Open weekends, 9 am to 5 pm, and 3 pm to 4:30 pm on Thursdays and Fridays. Hillview Farms 223 Meyersville Road, Gillette, NJ 908-647-0957 Pick your own pumpkins at Hillview Farms! In October, you and your family can visit this family-owned and operated farm with 53 acres of locally grown food. Hayrides are available every weekend in October! You can even visit their roadside market with apples, pumpkins, vegetables, tomatoes, donuts, cider, and bakery items. The market is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm (the field is closed to the public at 5 pm).

Riamede Farm 122 Oakdale Road, Chester, NJ 908-879-7762 You might know Riamede Farms for iconic apple orchards, but they also have a CutYour-Own-Pumpkin Patch! Cut pumpkins right from the vine in this pumpkin patch at the beginning of the season. Riamede Farm recommends that you bring your own cutting shears as well. Grab some delicious apples, donuts, and baked goods during your visit. Pumpkin and squash fields open in late September. Fall Pumpkin Days offers a General Admission ticket online for $13.20 on weekends and $5.70 on weekdays— children 2 and under enter for free. Tickets include access to various activities, but the farm does not allow pets or emotional support animals. Check the website for days the farm is open. Secor Farms 85 Airmont Ave., Mahwah, NJ 201-529-2595 Make picture-perfect memories at Secor

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. 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).

Farms’ storefront pumpkin patch. Public Hayrides begin on September 14 and run through November 1 st, with a cost of $8.50. Don’t leave before browsing the farm’s market, full of fresh-pressed apple cider and homemade apple cider donuts. Open 9 am to 5:30 pm daily.

Orange County Apple Dave’s Orchards 82 4 Corners Road, Warwick, NY 845-772-1242 Pick your own pumpkins at Apple Dave’s Orchards and choose your favorite pumpkins. While there, take a walk in the herb and flower gardens and enjoy their delicious food. On your way out, browse the Country Farm Store and buy fresh apple cider donuts, pumpkins, jams, jellies, pure honey, and more. Fall hours are 9 am to 5 pm.

Westchester County 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 weekends. To receive reduced pricing, visit their website and purchase your tickets online.

Apple Ridge Orchards 101 Jessup Road, Warwick, NY 845-987-7717 Looking for an educational and interactive experience at the pumpkin patch? Check out Apple Ridge Orchards for some family fun with pumpkins. You can take photos in front of the custom farm displays, such as an old tractor and portrait paintings. You can also taste sweet treats and pet the farm animals as you visit the farm. PYO starts September 19th. No reservations are needed. Pumpkins cost $14 regardless of size, and general admission is $3, including free parking and farm entrance. Admission and pick-yourown payments are cash only. Open to the public 9 am to 6 pm, Thursday to Sunday and

holidays. No reservations needed! Lawrence Farms Orchards 306 Frozen Ridge Road, Newburgh, NY 845-562-4268 Not too far from NYC, Lawrence Farms Orchards has a pumpkin patch with a wide selection for families to choose from. After you find your perfect pumpkin, browse the concession stand, which features apple cider donuts, pies, cookies, chicken tenders, paninis, hot dogs, roasted nuts, fries, pizza, nachos, ice cream, and more! Enjoy a morning out in the pumpkin patch and a delectable lunch or snack afterward to celebrate the fall season. Arriving early is highly recommended if you’d like to gain entry into the farm. Pumpkin season starts in mid-September. Open 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is $6 per person Monday through Thursday and $9 per person Friday through Sunday and holidays. Children under 2 years old are free. 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. October 2026 | New York Family

calendar BY SHARA LEVINE

MANHATTAN

92NY Red Riding Hood WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30 – 11:30 am, through Oct. 25; except Oct. 17. WHERE: 92NY, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 2 – 8 WHAT: Join the high-spirited and fearless Little Red on a musical adventure like you’ve never seen before! WANT TO GO?: Starting at $25. 92ny.org

Harvest Festival WHEN: Oct. 4, noon – 3 pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 10 Central Road, Randall’s Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Step into autumn with seasonal cooking demos, live performances, face painting, a pumpkin patch, and hands-on activities. WANT TO GO?: Free. randallsisland.org

Celebración Latina Block Party WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 4, noon – 4 pm WHERE: Ballet Hispánico, 167 W 89th St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy performances and dance classes, live music, family-friendly activities, local vendors, food, and community celebration. WANT TO GO?: Free. ballethispanico.org

89th Annual Pulaski Day Parade WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 4, 12:30 pm WHERE: Parade begins at 5th Ave. and 41st. St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Polish-

Rosie Revere, Ada Twist, and Iggy Peck: The Questioneers at The New Victory Theater American community across all aspects of American society at one of the city’s oldest and most cherished parades. WANT TO GO?: Free. pulaskiparade.org

Lions and Legends Live: Kids & Family Podcast Recording WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 11, 2 – 3 pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 – 12 WHAT: Join host Rebecca Sheir and composer Eric Shimelonis for a live recording of their new podcast featuring fun, fantastical retellings of legends, myths, folktales, and fables for all ages. WANT TO GO?: $35-$45. (212) 864–5400, symphonyspace. org

Columbus Day Parade WHEN: Monday, Oct. 12, 11:30

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am – 3:30 pm WHERE: 5th Ave. Bet. 44th St. and 72nd St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: This grand celebration of Italian-American pride and heritage honors the history, culture, and the enduring contributions of Italian Americans in New York and beyond. WANT TO GO?: Free. columbuscitizens.org

Rosie Revere, Ada Twist, and Iggy Peck: The Questioneers WHEN: Oct. 17 – 25, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am – noon and 4 – 5 pm WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 4 and older WHAT: Everyone’s favorite kid engineer, scientist and architect team up to tackle big problems with ingenuity, cooperation and a measure of encouragement

from the adults in their lives. WANT TO GO?: $25. (646) 223–3010, newvictory.org

Harlem Stage KIDS DAY! WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 24, 10 am – 3 pm WHERE: Harlem Stage, 150 Convent Ave., Hamilton Heights AGES: All WHAT: This vibrant event brings together live music, hands-on activities, and community spirit with performances by Divi Roxx Kids, FYUTCH & Aura V, Lucy Kalantari and more. WANT TO GO?: Free. (917) 388–7444, harlemstage.org

Release of the Fishes WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 3 – 6 pm WHERE: Hudson River Park’s River Project Wetlab, 353 West St., West Village AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the end of the season by helping return

OCTOBER fish to the Hudson River, while enjoying kid-friendly crafts and activities that explore local wildlife and the river ecosystem. WANT TO GO?: Free. hudsonriverpark.org

Oct. 12, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: New York Aquarium, 602 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: Ascarium returns with new attractions and returning favorites including marinethemed magic shows, face painting, games, and more. WANT TO GO?: $25.95-$32.95. nyaquarium.com

Spooky City: Faces and Places of NYC WHEN: Oct. 31, 11 am – 3 pm WHERE: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 5th Avenue, New York AGES: 5 – 8 WHAT: Celebrate Halloween with family-friendly artmaking, storytelling, games, and festive fun inspired by New York City’s rich history, neighborhoods, and the people who have shaped them. WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $14-$23; free for teens and younger. mcny.org

BRONX Día de los Muertos at NYBG WHEN: Oct. 3, Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am – 6 pm, through Nov. 2 WHERE: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bedford Park AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate loved ones with music and crafts on weekends, while experiencing joyful moments of reflection among fall’s golden foliage and festive pumpkins. WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $15–$39. (718) 817– 8700, nybg.org

Bronx Zoo Boo at the Zoo WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 5:30 pm, through Nov. 1; Oct. 12, 10 am – 5:30 pm WHERE: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park AGES: All WHAT: Boo at the Zoo is back, now with more chances to discover the wonders of wildlife through play, sensory exploration, and up-close access to animal experts. WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $27.20. bronxzoo.com

Family Art Project: Corn Husk Dolls WHEN: Oct. 10 & 11, 10 am – 1

calendar

QUEENS 5th Annual Rockaway Dog Parade

Celebración Latina Block Party at Ballet Hispánico pm. WHERE: Wave Hill, 675 W 252nd St, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Indigenous People’s Day by exploring corn’s role in indigenous cultures and learn about its versatility as a food and art material. WANT TO GO?: Free with admission to the grounds: $4 – $10. (718) 549–3200, wavehill. org

Plim Plim en Vivo! WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 11, 1 pm & 3 pm WHERE: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, University Heights AGES: 5 and younger WHAT: Plim Plim en Vivo brings the beloved children’s phenomenon from the screen to the stage in an exciting interactive experience for the whole family. WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $29; $10 ages 10 and younger. (718) 960–8833, lehmancenter. org

BROOKLYN Spooktober WHEN: Oct. 3 – 31, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 5:30 pm WHERE: Prospect Park Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Park AGES: All WHAT: Go batty at the Zoo!

Visit the tombstones of extinct animals, explore a Spooky Trail, discover some Spooky Science, enjoy special live performances, and more. WANT TO GO?: $7.95 – $10.95. prospectparkzoo.com

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Live WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 8, 7 – 9 pm WHERE: Kings Theatre, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Flatbush AGES: All ages WHAT: Take a nostalgia-filled trip to Fraggle Rock with all your favorite characters, fanfavorite songs, and exciting visual effects. WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $47. (718) 856–5464, kingstheatre.com

31st Annual Panamanian Parade WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 10, 10 am WHERE: Parade begins at Franklin Ave. and Bergen St., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: The largest Panamanian parade in the world outside the Republic of Panama celebrates and honors those who have made a lasting cultural impact on this nation. WANT TO GO?: Free. panamanianparade.org

New York Aquarium Ascarium WHEN: Oct. 10 – 31, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am – 4 pm;

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 3, noon – 2 pm WHERE: Beach 94th Street Plaza in Rockaway Beach, Beach 94th St. & Shorefront Pkwy., Far Rockaway AGES: All ages WHAT: Bring everyone in your family, including the four-legged members, for an unforgettable afternoon of costumes, live entertainment, photo opps, a pet fair, and more. WANT TO GO?: $5. zionsmission.org

Halloween on the Farm WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 am – 5 pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Wear your costume to the farm for Monster Mash dancing, spooky ghost stories, trick-or-treating, The Amazing Maize Maze, Halloween hayrides, a pumpkin patch, and more. WANT TO GO?: $24. queensfarm.org

Queens Zoo Dia de los Muertos WHEN: Oct. 31 – Nov. 1, Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 4 pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Learn about extinct animal species and celebrate Latin American cultures through live performances, meet & greets, crafts, a Zoo Ofrenda honoring our “animal ancestors”, and more. WANT TO GO?: $7.95-$10.95. queenszoo.com

October 2026 | New York 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,

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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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A K-12+ PRIVATE SCHOOL MEETING ALL LEARNERS WHERE THEY ARE

Visit and learn about New York’s only K-12+ independent inclusion school Saturday, October 25 • 10:30 AM-12:30 PM 5 Hanover Square in Lower Manhattan Students are welcome and activities will be provided! Generous financial assistance is available Spaces are open in all grades Call 212-769-1699 x10105 or email admissions@theidealschool.org

Scholarships & Tuition Assistance

Located at 5 Hanover Square in Lower Manhattan with 5-borough accessibility