Danielle Valente

It’s a whole new world of bowling out there these days. Old-school alleys still exist — where bowling leagues compete and old friends hang out with beers — while high-end, multipurpose lanes with lounges, cocktail bars and other swanky offerings have proliferated. But they’re not just for grownups: the best bowling alleys for kids in NYC make bowling fun for kids while also catering to adults. From birthday parties to family outings, these bowling alleys are fun for all ages, and make for a great choice among indoor activities for kids when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Kids love to compete with each other, and activities like arcades, go karts, laser tag and bowling are a no-brainer. There are even bowling leagues for kids too, adding a little team-building into the mix. We have to admit, however, these bowling alleys are great because they offer food to keep the kids fed and adult beverages to keep you happy. So get those throwing arms warmed up and head out for a fun family outing at the best bowling alleys for kids in NYC.

Fact: kids need to burn energy. There are many things to do with kids in NYC that will keep them entertained, even educated. But pure, energy-expending fun is a much-needed activity. Even more than outdoor options like hiking or biking, sometimes kids just need to chase each other around and engage in some friendly competition. Like arcades, go-karts and trampoline parks, the best laser tag in NYC offers kid-friendly fun that’s sure to wear them out. Laser tag can keep the kids entertained for hours. Plus, many of these spots are a part of larger arcades and amusement parks, so they can also hit up some go karts, video games, bumper cars and more. It’s also a good idea to keep these spots handy when the weather calls for an indoor activity. The kids will have a blast playing laser tag, and afterwards you can treat everyone to dinner at a kid-friendly NYC restaurant.

The kids are out of school and the weather is beautiful, so it’s time to get outside. Among the best summer activities for kids (and one of the best things to do outdoors with kids) is to get out on the water. That’s right, this bustling city we call home has plenty of adventures to be had on the water, and free kayaking in NYC is one not to be missed. For a family paddle that also has great views of the city, check out these options, from the Hudson to Brooklyn to Staten Island. Kayaks and lessons are provided. The kids will learn a new skill (if they’re not already kayaking fans) and have fun doing it. Best of all, it’s free. Summer is fleeting, which means there’s limited time to pack in all these fun family activities. When your little paddlers are ready to get back on land, try more active options like nearby hiking trails and biking trails. You can also check out PYO farms in the region for strawberry picking and cherry picking. There are endless weekend family getaway destinations, but trust us, you’ll want to add free kayaking in NYC to your summer bucket list.

As any parent will tell you, usually with a resigned sigh, keeping a toddler entertained is not easy. By the age of two or so, these weird, usually wonderful, often exasperating munchkins are so excited by the world that no single activity engrosses them for very long. For us creaky oldsters, just trying to keep up with them is exhausting.  Thankfully, that’s why the universe invented movies. Sure, the wee ones may not have enough of an attention span to sit still for a full film, but the best kids’ movies should still buy parents some time before they inevitably return to pulling books off the bookshelf, stealing your keys and ramming their heads into the wall. And anyway, it’s never too early to instil a love of cinema in the young’uns, and these 15 movies will certainly do the trick. Recommended: ✍ The 100 best animated films of all time👪 The 50 best kids movies to watch as a family💻 The best family movies on Netflix for all ages🤣 The best family comedy movies

Whether you see Disney as a mostly benevolent imagination factory or an evil corporation bent on world domination, no one can deny that it is responsible for the vast majority of the greatest animated movies of all time. Since changing the game with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937, the company has turned out nearly a century’s worth of cartoon bangers – many of which can now be found on the treasure trove that is Disney+. But that’s not to say everything the House of Mouse has produced is worth revisiting. Its long history is marked with insanely high peaks and some very low valleys. For every classic that instantly transports you back to childhood, there’s at least five direct-to-video sequels and needless remakes, alongside outright failures that should probably stay locked in the vault.    To help you separate the Wall-Es and Dumbos from the Mars Need Moms-es and (oh God) Songs of the Souths, we dove deep into the Disney catalogue and rounded up 50 can’t-miss picks for your family movie night. From the Golden Age to the Renaissance to Pixar, these are the absolute best Disney movies ever. Recommended: ✍ The 100 best animated films of all-time👪 The 50 best kids movies to watch as a family🤣 The best family comedy movies🦄 The 50 best fantasy movies of all-time  

Family movie night can be a battlefield. If you’re not prepared, attempting to find a film that can satisfy the entire brood can lead to insults, eyerolls, tears and a lot of slammed doors. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. It is possible to find a picture that overlaps with every demo in your home – you just need to know what to look for. Specifically, you need to look for one of the 50 movies listed here.  And as you’ll see, a good ‘family movie’ doesn’t necessarily have to mean ‘for the kids’. Sure, you’ll find plenty of animated classics, both new and old. But there are also classics from the Golden Age of Hollywood, live action adventures from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, inspirational true-life tales, comedies with jokes that work for every age group and movies that underscore the importance of family. Whatever you’re in the mood for, throw on one of these, and feel safe in the knowledge that your house will keep the peace, at least for one more night. RECOMMENDED: ✍ The 100 best animated films of all-time👪 The 50 best kids movies to watch as a family💻 The best family movies on Netflix for all-ages🤣 The best family comedy movies🧒 The best kids’ movies from the ’90s

There’s nothing like a furry, four-legged friend to bring extra warmth and joy into your home. Fortunately there are hundreds of dogs and cats of all ages (plus some other furry critters) who need homes in the city. The best choice for finding your family’s new best friend is to consider pet adoption in NYC. These local pet adoption organizations — including shelters, rescues and networks of foster homes — work tirelessly to find homes for all types of animals, from puppies and kittens to senior dogs and cats, of all breeds and temperaments. Start your search online, visit one of the shelters or check out an upcoming adoption event. The organizations will work with you to find the best match for you and your family. Many also offer resources to keep your new pet healthy. If you’re not ready to adopt, consider fostering. With shelters often bursting at the seams, temporary placement for animals is always appreciated. Also needed are homes for senior pets, often neglected when families are looking for a new friend. So if your household is on the chill side, a senior will be forever grateful! Until you find your adoptable pet, get some animal inspiration by checking out our favorite animal and pet movies and have a look at our suggestions for the best dogs for kids. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do with kids in NYC

What’s one of the best ways to get your kids to burn energy? Well, NYC has amazing playgrounds with features galore for climbing, jumping and even splashing around. There are also kid-friendly hiking trails and biking trails to get them outside and moving. But what’s more fun than jumping, bouncing and flying through the air? Head to a trampoline park in NYC for a high-flying adventure that your kids will flip for. The things to do with kids in NYC are endless, from kid-friendly museums and attractions to unforgettable family day trips close to the city. When the weather isn’t cooperating, one of the best indoor activities for kids is to hit up a bounce-tastic NYC trampoline park, whether a classic one that’s just for jumping or one that incorporates bouncy basketball or other energy-burning activities. With all that bouncing around, your kids will surely be worn out.

Because crop availability varies, always call first! The joy of picking your own fruit and eating it straight from the source is something that kids of all ages enjoy. Whether it’s pumpkins and apples in the fall or strawberries and blueberries in the summer, there are plenty of PYO options in the region. If cherries are your thing, head to these spots for cherry picking in NY, NJ and CT and you can load up on the sweet red treats for baking or simply snacking. It’s a summertime ritual that makes for a perfect family day trip. Cherry picking season in NY usually begins in late June or July. These farms grow other fruits in addition to cherries, so be sure to stock up, and don’t miss fresh baked farm goods while you’re there. Some even have petting zoos! For more outdoor adventures, check out the kid-friendly hiking trails and biking trails near NYC, but for fruity summer fun, these farms are where to go for cherry picking in NY and beyond.

Summer is here, and our June events calendar for kids in NYC has what you need to keep the kids entertained. The city is chock full of activities and the calendar is filled with events that kids and their families will love. Now is the time to check out all the amazing playgrounds in NYC (and don’t miss these water playgrounds when the temps rise) and kid-friendly bike trails. Keep them busy with the best kid-approved attractions and museums, or get out of the city and hit the trail with a family friendly hike. There are so many things to do with kids in NYC that it can be hard to choose. Our calendar of events for June in NYC is here to help, with the best options that offer fun for the whole family. You deserve a weekend family getaway or a trip to a nearby amusement park, but if you’re in the city in June, here are the best things to do with the kids. Looking ahead? Check out our July calendar for kids in NYC.

Because crop availability varies, always call first! What’s better than devouring the freshest fruit of the season? Picking your own at a nearby farm is both satisfying and a whole lot of fun. For a full family day out that ends with a basket full of deliciousness, pack up the kids and head out for some strawberry picking in NY. It’s one of the best summer activities for kids in New York. The red beauties start to appear, ripe and ready, some time around late May or early June. Farms from Hudson Valley to Long Island offer pick-your-own (PYO) options, though each may handle things differently. Some provide containers while others allow you to bring your own. Some charge a flat fee, some charge by the pound. Whatever approach they take, you’re guaranteed sweet, delicious strawberries to take home and turn into pie, shortcake or some other treat (or just eat them on their own). These farms are all within a three hour drive of the city, and many offer additional activities like petting zoos or wagon rides. They may also have cafes and eateries with fresh-baked goods and other farm-fresh products, so you can make a whole day of it. If you can’t get enough PYO, farms in NY also offer cherry picking and blueberry picking.

Karaoke isn’t just a drunken birthday pastime or office party team-building exercise: it’s a great way to keep the kids entertained on a rained-in weekend. Of course, the songs adults love to sing in public are a bit different from the child-approved ones. A fourth grader doesn’t have the attention span for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, the sight of a baby doing ‘WAP’ is a bit…disconcerting. But kids karaoke doesn’t have to be all Kidz Bop and Sesame Street. There are plenty of G-rated tunes out there that both adults and children can enjoy singing along to. We’ve compiled 20 of the best kids karaoke songs here. RECOMMENDED: 🎤  The best karaoke songs👶  Actually great kids’ songs🎉  The best party songs ever made🕺  The best pop songs of all time😊  The best happy songs

Color us curious: AMNH is unpacking the meaning behind blues, reds, yellows and so on in its new exhibit, "The Nature of Color." Along with cool interactive features (think color-changing rooms, floor-to-ceiling color play and a light lab), photo-worthy moments and yes, even some live critters, visitors can expect to delve deep into their favorite hues. "Color is one of these under-appreciated things; we take it for granted," said the exhibit's curator, Rob DeSalle. "What we hope that visitors get from this show is a better understanding of color and one that is not just 'Oh, It hits my retina and does stuff to my brain,' but  also that there are far-reaching contexts for color: the cultural context, the social context and the history of our species on this planet through color." All ages. 

Oui, oui. The French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) will present Animation First, NYC's French animation festival, and it promises to be tres chic. Families are invited to check out various screenings of feature-length and short films, virtual reality and video games with a French flair. You'll want to catch The Bears’ Famous Invasion of Sicily (Friday Feb 7), The Prince’s Voyage (Saturday, Feb 8, ages 7 and up) and so much more. Check the website for a full schedule Ça te dit? All ages.    

Spring is in the air! Families can make their way to the Brooklyn Children's Museum for Holi Hooray!, a spring Indian Color Festival that will include a day of art, dance and food. The highlight of the afternoon is the outdoor color powder procession and extravaganza, so come dressed in white and ready to get completely covered in (non-toxic, washable) powder to look like a walking rainbow. All ages. 

Each child gets a little taste of the arts, nature, history, culture, technology, literature and science when spending a summer at BCAP. This award-winning camp—which works alongside institutions such as the Brooklyn Children's Museum and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden—allows kids to explore, play games and visit two institutions on the program's Cultural Campus. An unforgettable experience is guaranteed. Ages 7–12.  

All skill levels are invited to spend their summer on the water, making friends with team members and learning the fundamentals of rowing. For those who take their water adventures seriously and have victory on their brains, there is a competitive camp (June 24–Aug 9) that will satisfy the urge to race. Time to grab the paddles and get moving, kids! Grades 7–12. 

The Prospect Park Alliance is celebrating the Year of the Pig with good-luck crafts, treats and other fun activities that will kickstart Lunar New Year with positive vibes. Additionally, those who attend will have the opportunity to head to the Prospect Park Audubon Center for nature-related games and activities. All ages. 

As irresistible as the fresh carrots that grow in Mr. McGregor’s garden, Peter Rabbitgives Beatrix Potter’s classic a modern makeover, complete with intricate animation, cute quips for older audiences and a sweet-natured journey that has you rooting for a happy ending for all involved. Vying for gorgeous grounds and his human next-door neighbor (Rose Byrne), the audacious Peter Rabbit (confidently voiced by James Corden) goes head-to-head with sour Thomas McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson), who unexpectedly inherits the beautiful property of his estranged late uncle. The only thing the finicky Londoner detests more than the English countryside is the “vermin” inhabiting the land, so naturally we’re braced for a duel. Peter’s shenanigans, though certainly adorable, could have been curtailed for the sake of pacing: One electrocuting gag is plenty. But the lovable supporting crew—Flopsy (Margot Robbie), Mopsy (Elizabeth Debicki), Cotton-Tail (Daisy Ridley) and Benjamin (Colin Moody)—makes up for any overdone mischief. Some may cringe at director-cowriter Will Gluck’s modifications (a bunny that twerks, music from the likes of Vampire Weekend and the ubiquitous Rachel Platten), and the heart-wrenching backstory of Peter’s parents might not be appropriate for the smallest of bunnies. (Save this one for young rabbits who can handle more mature content.) It’s certainly a new spin, but those who make the leap will do so vigorously.  

  Irresistible como un manojo de zanahorias recién recogidas del huerto, 'Peter Rabbit' da al relato ilustrado de Beatrix Potter una nueva vida, y una actualización de las acuarelas tradicionales a través de una animación preciosista y encantadora. Esta vez, el conejo de la chaqueta azul se las ingenia para comer lechugas y zafarse de la ira de Thomas McGregor, que acaba de heredar la granja de su tío, de manera inesperada. La audacia de Peter y sus travesuras nos sumergen en un viaje a través de los colores del campo inglés. Es cierto que hay partes que pueden resultar poco indicadas para los espectadores más pequeños –que es a quien parecería que va dirigida la películ-a, y que hay algún gag recurrente que se puede hacer un poco pesado. Pero los personajes son simpáticos y entrañables –las hermanas de Peter tienen momentos deliciosos–, y el espíritu de los cuentos originales que tantas veces hemos visto en las librerías no podría haber encontrado, en nuestros días, un mejor homenaje. 

Irresistible com un manat de pastanagues acabades de collir de l’hort, Peter Rabbit dona al relat il·lustrat de Beatrix Potter una nova vida, i una actualització de les aquarel·les tradicionals a través d’una animació preciosista i encantadora. Aquest cop, el conill de la jaqueta blava se les empesca per menjar enciams i escapolir-se dels renecs de Thomas McGregor, que acaba d’heretar la granja del seu oncle, de manera inesperada. L’audàcia d’en Peter i les seves entremaliadures ens submergeixen en un viatge a través dels colors del camp anglès. És cert que hi ha parts que poden resultar poc indicades per als espectadors més petits –que és a qui semblaria que va adreçada la pel·lícula–, i que hi ha algun gag recurrent que es pot fer una mica pesat. Però els personatges són simpàtics i entranyables –les germanes d’en Peter tenen moments deliciosos–, i l’esperit dels contes originals que tantes vegades hem vist a les llibreries no podria haver trobat, en els nostres dies, un millor homenatge.   

You don't have to feel guilty about dropping the kids off on Saturday night thanks to Ashley Swagerty's event. In Kid's Night Out, which takes the first and third Saturday of every month, your crew will learn some kitchen skills and work on a few crafts. Cooking, crafting and snacking—what could be better? March 3, ages 3–5 and March 17, ages 6–8. Register online. 

Want to play with over 4 million LEGOs? Now's your chance. At LEGO Live NYC! you'll be able to get your hands on interactive games, watch demonstrations, take selfies with life-size models of your favorite characters and so much more. Make sure to talk to the LEGO master builders for fun LEGO tips and tricks! All ages. 

For the little creative ones in your life who cannot make up their mind, Brooklyn Stitchery provides a little bit of everything—knitting, sewing and beyond. Youngsters can join the Children's Creative Sewing Club (8 and up) and teens have the option of participating in the Teens and Tweens Fashion Club (12 and up). No matter what route your kids decide to take, the main goal of Brooklyn Stitchery is to provide students with a solid foundation that they need to make their masterpieces. Ages 8 and up. 

It looks like there's a new Muppet in town.  Meet Foley, the host of Audible's exclusive Sesame Street Podcast with Foley and Friends. Debuting Oct 15, this new offering allows tots (particularly those in pre-k) to enjoy interactive games, listen to music, and tag along with familiar pals like Elmo and Cookie Monster. Plus, it's the first time our go-to kids' show is dipping into the podcast world. It's just another way to enjoy our favorite friends! “We’re thrilled to expand our children’s content with this exceptional release," Rachel Ghiazza, Audible's executive vice president and head of US content said in a statement. "The Sesame Street Podcast with Foley & Friends delivers what parents need most now: educational entertainment that little ones will love, guaranteed.”  Foley takes the lead with her sidekick Mikee the Microphone during each 15-minute episode to introduce little ones to a variety of topics, some of which include birthdays and the alphabet. We're particularly looking forward to the reoccurring “Elmo’s Joke of the Day" podcast game show, which is sure to deliver laugh-out-loud material.   Download Audible and enjoy! For more ways to keep kids busy during this unusual school term, check out fall 2020 activities—virtual classes, pods and more!  Most popular on Time Out - NYC DOE reaches a new decision about the return to school - Will NYC teachers go on strike? Here’s what you need to know - The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is opening a second location this year

On Nov 19, the NYC DOE went remote for a second time in 2020. Now, the question on everyone's mind is, "When will NYC schools reopen?"  Although there isn't a particular date for parents to mark in their calendar, Mayor Bill de Blasio did provide an update on what it will look like to return to buildings. "We can and we will bring back our schools. It will take a lot of work. I just want people to understand that from the beginning," he said during his Nov 23 press briefing.  Join me at City Hall for the latest on #COVID19 in New York City. https://t.co/ZZ3aR7o07e — Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) November 23, 2020 The core vision will intensify the health and safety measures already in place, which will include a lot more testing in schools. The mayor urged parents to fill out the DOE's COVID-19 testing request form, as it is required for all those who plan to return to buildings. (If your child is one of the 35,000 students who opted back into hybrid learning, this is a must.)  Although the mayor acknowledged that there are still details to work out between the city and state, reopening schools will most likely happen in phases, with a focus on D75 schools, 3k, pre-k and elementary school getting back to the classroom first. As we know, a lot could change in a short amount of time. Should NYC be upgraded to an orange zone by state standards, extra precautions will be required.  For the latest information, visit the NYC DOE online.  Most popular on Time Out - The best fal

American Dream is keen on setting records.  The Jersey activity oasis—home to North America's largest indoor water park and the nation's first indoor snow park, among other facilities—is kicking off the new year with a focus on food. Taking a page from its neighbor's book, American Dream has welcomed Van Leeuwen and Best Pizza, two NYC eateries, to their first locations outside of the Empire State. Polishing off an afternoon of entertainment with a New York slice and a scoop or two of creamy goodness is certainly the way to go, if you ask us. At Van Leeuwen, visitors can expect classic and vegan flavors, sundaes, shakes and other goodies. Current specials include chocolate key lime pie and royal wedding cake. A menu for Best Pizza isn't available just yet, but if the regular and white pies are anything like their counterparts at the Williamsburg flagship, customers are in for a treat.  Like its extensive food options, which is expected to grow in the coming weeks, American Dream offers a lot of other things to do on its menu.  Out of This World Blacklight Mini Golf Photograph: Courtesy American Dream Make your way to the new intergalactic-themed mini golf course. Catch 3-D astronaut sculptures, planet murals and a splash of color at every hole while you work your way toward victory. Oh, did we mention that it's completely glow in the dark? Angry Birds Not So Mini Golf Photograph: Courtesy American Dream Kids will love taking a swing amongst familiar friends of the Angry B

It's time to channel your inner HGTV, Mom and Dad.  Following the delay of its summer 2020 debut, IKEA will open the doors to its Rego Center store—its first location in Queens— later this month. The small shop is meant to embrace New Yorkers' lifestyles and cater to their specific needs. One feature we're anxious to explore? Appointment planning.  Currently, shoppers are able to book free online appointments with IKEA employees to help map out a room of their choice: children's rooms, bedrooms, home offices, storage areas and even entire apartments. We're so ready for those tips and tricks!  Since it's likely that your little scholars are still learning remotely, you'll also want to take a few pointers from Apartment Therapy CEO Maxwell Ryan while you redecorate: Keep a desk as close to natural light as possible and make sure your academics have two options: a sturdy desk and comfortable chair. You never want them to end up sitting in history class in bed under the covers! Even if your space is comfy and functional, chances are high that the kiddos are still driving you a bit crazy. Although there might not be a home design solution for that (or is there?), NYC's best parenting bloggers will help you navigate this unusual WFH environment.   Most popular on Time Out - Awesome things NYC families can’t miss in 2021- New kids’ movies coming out in 2021 that you can’t miss- The best places for snow tubing near NYC- The best hot chocolate in NYC- January events calendar for kids

The new year is bringing changes to the classroom. The New York City Department of Education has announced that it reduced the number of days school communities need to quarantine if they're exposed to the coronavirus. As of Jan 3, it has dropped from 14 to 10 days. This complies with changes from the CDC and New York State.  Earlier this week, families were made aware of other revised regulations: According to Governor Andrew Cuomo's Jan 4 press conference, schools in counties across New York State will be able to stay open if the virus positivity rate exceeds the 9 percent threshold—a plan that was once reverse. If testing in a particular school shows that its positivity rate is below the community average, it is permitted to stay open. This will be at the district's discretion.  Currently, the United Federation of Teachers is fighting against this plan: On Jan 2, the Solidarity Caucus of the UFT started a petition on Change.org that urges the mayor and governor to close all NYC school buildings and switch back to remote learning. Stay tuned for more forthcoming information.  UFT President Mulgrew makes it clear the UFT will oppose any attempt to keep schools open if the city infection rate hits 9%. pic.twitter.com/UDxclgT033 — UFT (@UFT) January 5, 2021 Most popular on Time Out - Awesome things NYC families can’t miss in 2021- New kids’ movies coming out in 2021 that you can’t miss- The best places for snow tubing near NYC- The best hot chocolate in NYC- January events c

Brownstone Brooklyn's newest attraction is a win-win for kids and parents.  While you're sipping a hot chocolate (perhaps with a shot of Bailey’s Irish Cream), your kiddos can whip around Court Street Tavern's debut ice skating rink. The newly opened Carroll Gardens restaurant has taken outdoor accommodations and upped the ante; while most eateries have opted for heated tents, this South Brooklyn spot has created its own destination for winter fun.  Meet the Court Street Ice Rink. Photograph: Time Out / Danielle Valente Photograph: Time Out / Danielle Valente Photograph: Courtesy Emily Bartlett Perfect for ages 13 and under, the super-cute "glice" rink from Matt Shendell of Paige Concepts is open daily from 12:15–7:15pm for $25 per child (including skate rentals). Parents can make reservations on Resy for 45-minute sessions and walk-ins are welcome. For an additional $10, moms and dads can rent a skate aid seal—an adorable buddy looking to help your little skaters keep their balance. Note that lockers are not available, so be prepared to hang onto those winter boots.  Plus, there's more good news. TVs are stationed right above the rink, so you can have your eyes on the game, your lil' winter Olympian and that tasty Hot Toddy. We told you this would be a win-win for everyone! Court Street Tavern is located at 449 Court St in Carroll Gardens.  Most popular on Time Out - Awesome things NYC families can’t miss in 2021- New kids’ movies coming out in 2021 that you can’t miss

NYC schools are back after winter break, and questions are already swirling about what's to come.  According to Governor Andrew Cuomo's Jan 4 press conference, schools in counties across the state will be able to stay open if the virus positivity rate exceeds the 9 percent threshold—a plan that was once reverse. If testing in a particular school shows that its positivity rate is below the community average, it is permitted to stay open. This will be at the district's discretion. (Look for the information at the 24-minute mark of the news conference.)  In Albany holding a COVID briefing. Watch live: https://t.co/OG0KlkQrUQ — Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) January 4, 2021 So what does that mean for NYC schools? During Mayor Bill de Blasio's Jan 4 press briefing, he stated that children have started returning to class (though middle school and high schools are still remote) and that the the positivity rate in NYC schools is at 0.68 percent—"much, much, much lower than anything we're seeing in NYC." Several weeks ago, he has indicated that he'd like NYC schools to remain open, even if the city enters a shutdown similar to last spring.  Happy New Year, New York City! Join us at City Hall. https://t.co/F3xnVrlW1G — Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) January 4, 2021 The United Federation of Teachers, however, disagrees. On Jan 2, the Solidarity Caucus of the UFT started a petition on Change.org that urges the mayor and governor to close all NYC school buildings and switch back to remo

We can all agree that 2020 was the pits. But fortunately, great reads kept us going when we needed it most.  If you're searching for things to do with kids in NYC this winter break wanting to spend some time in, we have good news. The New York Public Library joined forces with the Brooklyn Public Library and the Queens Public Library to reveal the top checkouts of the year. The lists for adults are stellar (so make a mental note, Mom and Dad), but we're particularly jazzed about the children's books and YA selections.  If your kiddos need some reading inspo while they're off from school, have a gander at the titles below. (You'll notice some of our favorite kids' books of all time are on the list!) Pick 'em up at using the grab-and-go app or download the books with SimplyE. NYPL: Children's books  Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by JK RowlingWonder by R.J PalacioGuts: Smile Series, Book 3 by Rena TelgemeierWrecking Ball (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 14) by Jeff KinneyHarry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by JK RowlingThe Giver by Lois LowryDog Days: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series, Book 4 by Jeff KinneyCabin Fever: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series, Book 6 by Jeff KinneyThe Ugly Truth: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series, Book 5 by Jeff KinneyThe Meltdown (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 13) by Jeff Kinney NYPL: YA books American Royals by Katharine McGeeThe Hate U Give by Angie ThomasThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes: The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne CollinsChildren of Blood and Bone: Legac

Update: Hours for meal pick-ups are changing for the holidays. The hours are as follows:  December 23: 3pm-5pmDecember 24: 12pm-3pmDecember 25: no serviceDecember 28-31: 12pm-3pmJanuary 1: no service REMINDER: Free holiday meals to go will be available to ALL New Yorkers this season:🔹December 23: 3pm-5pm🔹December 24: 12pm-3pm🔹December 25: no service🔹December 28-31: 12pm-3pm🔹January 1: no serviceLearn more: https://t.co/ZOQdtTFMTQ. pic.twitter.com/NbGXPWV38m — NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) December 23, 2020 As of Nov 19, families can pick up meals from 9am–noon on the weekdays at any school and members of the community can get grab and go meals from 3–5pm at various locations throughout NYC. Learn more about times, availability and rules on the NYC DOE website.  ----- Whether your child is learning remotely this fall or participating in the blended learning model, he or she will have access to free grab-and-go meals from the NYC DOE.  Meal hubs, which are listed on the DOE's website by borough, will operate Monday through Friday from 7:30–11:30 for children and families and 11:30am–1:30pm for adults. Identification is not required and those who stop by will be able to pick up several meals at a time. Vegetarian and Halal options are up for grabs, as well as pizza kits.   The health of our students is our first priority this fall, and that includes making sure every student has access to nutritious meals no matter where they are learning-- remotely or in-person. pic.

Little thrill seekers have a lot to look forward to in the year ahead.  Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park will add a new ride to its roster in 2021, a 68-foot-tall, 34-mile-per-hour roller coaster named Phoenix—a sign of rebirth. The Coney Island attraction announced the big news following USA Today's roundup of the country's most anticipated new coasters.  We're thrilled to announce exciting news for 2021 via @USATODAY's @AboutThemeParks: A new roller coaster, Phoenix at @WonderWheelPark! “It’s an important time to rebuild,” says DJ Vourderis. “We’re betting on the future of New York City and Coney Island.” https://t.co/5pUZcTyj2V pic.twitter.com/uTXt0bkCi8 — Denos Wonder Wheel (@WonderWheelPark) December 21, 2020 Although fun and exciting, Phoenix is meant to be a family-friendly attraction (or suitable for those who are too afraid to visit the neighboring Cyclone at Luna Park). Guests will fasten themselves into ski lift-like cars of the suspended coaster and let their feet dangle as they whip about. We're getting anxious just thinking about it!  Kids' amusement parks in New York had a difficult year, as they were not permitted to open for the 2020 season. But as we start to heal and return to a somewhat normal lifestyle, this gives kiddos (and parents) a lot to look forward to during the summer. Might we suggest a visit to Nathan's after a ride on Phoenix?  Most popular on Time Out - The coolest drive-thru Christmas lights near NYC- Where to find a Christmas tree farm

One thing's for sure: Snow days are off the table in NYC this year.  After a delayed start to the 2020-2021 term, NYC schools are now required to spend "snow days" learning remotely. This will ensure that the requirement for 180 days of instruction is fulfilled. (We know, it's a bummer.)  Although kiddos will still be studying hard while the snowflakes fall, they do not have to report to buildings tomorrow. Those who are participating in hybrid learning will be learning remotely. Additionally, Meal Hubs will be closed according to the DOE.  With a powerful winter storm on the way, we're going to CANCEL in-person learning for @NYCSchools on Thursday, December 17.I know we all grew up with the excitement of snow days, but this year is different. Tomorrow will be a FULL REMOTE learning day for our students. — Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) December 16, 2020 ⚠️ UPDATE: Due to inclement weather, @NYCschools buildings will be closed tomorrow Thursday, December 17, 2020. All students will learn remotely, and are expected to log on and engage with their work from home as they do on other remote days. All Meal Hubs will also be closed. pic.twitter.com/IDZ6QVrmJn — NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) December 16, 2020 Meanwhile, the debate is on whether or not students will attend school if NYC faces a second shutdown. Mayor Bill de Blasio would like to keep schools open, but ultimately it will be the state's call.  "Right now we're seeing extraordinary success in keeping our school

Vaccinations have begun in New York, but virus cases are on the rise.  Both Mayor Bill de Blasio and Governor Andrew Cuomo are alluding to the possibility of another shutdown after the holidays.    "I don't say it with anything but sorrow, but I do think it’s needed. We're going to need to do some kind of shutdown in the weeks ahead—something that resembles the pause we were in in the spring," the mayor said during his Dec 15 press briefing.  So what does this mean for NYC schools? Younger students and all grade levels in District 75 schools have begun returning to class following the November closures, though middle school and high school students are still learning remotely. The city is working to bring back in-person learning for five days per week, but another shutdown would seemingly put a stop to this plan.  Although the final decision will be up to the state, Mayor de Blasio said on Tuesday that he would like to leave the schools open.  "Right now we're seeing extraordinary success in keeping our schools safe. I want to keep them open," he said. "If we do have a pause that will be a decision the state makes, as I said, that could be as soon as right after Christmas, but the schools with all the layer upon layer of health and safety measures with this gold standard of health protections that we've put in place, schools can effectively keep serving kids and kids need it." The United Federation of Teachers, however, disagrees with this proposal. Michael Mulgrew, the presi