Danielle Valente

Do your kids jump around on the furniture and beds when they’re cooped up inside? There’s a better option for indulging in that urge to bounce: take them to a trampoline park in NYC (or  nearby) for some high flying fun. Among the best indoor activities for kids, trampolining is fun, active and energy-burning. Your kids will flip for these spots, whether they’re into classic trampolines or more elaborate setups that include ropes, bouncy basketball, foam pits or other fun features. If outdoor activities like hiking, biking or hitting up an amazing playground are not in the cards, then these bounce-tastic trampoline parks are a sure-fire entertaining activity that will definitely wear them out.

Because crop availability varies, always call first! What’s better than the taste of sweet, ripe fruit straight from the source? Picking the freshest fruit of the season is something that all ages can enjoy, and it’s one of the best summer activities for kids. Along with strawberry picking and blueberry picking, cherry picking in New York — which usually starts in late June or early July — is a top summer PYO activity. There are plenty of options in the area at farms within a few hours drive from the city in NY, NJ and CT. The perfect destination for a family day trip, these farms offer more than just cherry picking. You’ll find hayrides, animals to visit, wagon rides, farm stands and cafes. But the fresh, ripe cherries are the highlight. After a day at the farm you’ll leave with enough sweet, ripe cherries to snack on or make the best cherry pie ever, plus lasting memories of fun times with the family.

Because crop availability varies, always call first! Strawberry picking near NYC is one of the best summer activities for kids (and for all ages, really — who doesn’t love the taste of a sweet, fresh-picked strawberry?). Spend the day picking your own fruit with the fam and you’ll not only have fun, but you’ll head home with a load of summer’s sweetest treats, perfect for snacking, baking and more. Farms from Hudson Valley to Long Island offer pick-your-own options once the strawberries are ripe, usually late May or early June. Many farms have a variety of PYO fruit like blueberries and cherries on offer, as well as farm stands and on-site cafes for a quick meal. Some even have petting zoos! All are within just a few hours drive of the city. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of harvesting your own fruit, so make strawberry picking a part of your next family day trip for a memorable — and delicious — summertime ritual.

Gathering the whole family together for movie night can be a wonderful experience – or it can be downright dreadful. It really comes down to the movie itself. But finding a film that satisfies every age group represented on the couch is no easy task. Make the right pick, and you’ll create a warm, fuzzy memory that’ll live somewhere in the young’uns’ subconscious for a lifetime. Choose poorly, and the evening can end in a flurry of tears, insults and slammed doors.  But don’t fret. It is possible to find a movie that everyone agrees on, and we’re here to help. Among these 50 picks on this list, you’ll find a mix of animated masterpieces, enduring classics  from Hollywood’s Golden Age, live-action adventures stretching across generations and comedies that’ll make both grade schoolers and grandparents laugh at the same time. Whatever floats your family’s boat, throw on one of these flicks and you’ll be a hero. 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

While NYC is no doubt a destination for adults who flock to the city from all over to explore world-class museums, dine at fabulous restaurants and visit famous attractions, kids and families can have an equally grand time here. The top NYC attractions for families will wow everyone in your crew. The city is chock full of fun for the whole family, from kid-friendly Broadway shows and museums to family-friendly restaurants and outdoor activities. Even the littlest ones can enjoy the city, with plenty of toddler-friendly things to do. In fact, it’s likely that any attraction you might want to visit will have something geared towards the kids too, whether it’s iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty or bucolic destinations like the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. These spots can be entertaining and educational for all ages. From Coney Island to Times Square and beyond, check out these NYC attractions that your kids will love. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

You can keep the kids endlessly entertained, filling weekends and after-school hours with all the amazing things to do with kids in NYC. When they’re off school, however, that’s a great time to think about a day trip from NYC for some home day adventures. While there are plenty of options for weekend getaways to family resorts and other nearby attractions, a day trip means lots of fun without making reservations or packing a bag. These day trips for kids include epic options like sailing, hiking, biking and even foraging in the woods. Head to a museum, water park, amusement park or beach, all within a couple hours of the city, and you’re sure to have a blast on your next home day adventure.

Looking for a little R&R with the family? When planning a vacation with kids, these family resorts in New York and beyond can’t be beat. With everything taken care of and options for all ages, all you and the family need to do is have fun. Easily accessible from the city, these family resorts range from water parks and ranches to amusement parks and campgrounds. Whether you’re looking for chills and thrills or a back-to-nature getaway, there’s a family resort for you. These resorts know that parents need a break, so there are plenty of amenities for the adults to enjoy while the kids do their thing. For a memorable family adventure, pack your bags and head to these NYC area resorts.

A furry, four-legged friend can add a lot to your home, and there’s no better place to find that perfect pet than at a shelter. These local organizations offering pet adoption in NYC are doing all they can to rescue dogs, cats and other potential pets and place them in the right homes. Shelters and rescue organizations assisting with dog adoption in NYC will guide you through the process to match age and temperament with potential adopters’ situations. The same goes for cats, rabbits, birds and other rescued animals. As shelters are often bursting at the seams, fosters and donations are always welcome. If you’re looking to provide a forever home for a cute, cuddly companion, these are the best spots for pet adoption in NYC. Start online or check out an adoption event and these shelters will help you find your new best friend.

Playgrounds in NYC are way more than just swings and slides. There are a dizzying array of options throughout all the five boroughs, these gathering spots for city kids are designed for fun, memory-making and a whole lot more. From classic playgrounds to water playgrounds — an essential summertime activity — kids are spoiled for choice. Some playgrounds, however, go above and beyond and are worth a trip from wherever you live. These gorgeous NYC playgrounds are colorful, innovative, design-forward, whimsical and even educational. They’ll foster your kids’ curiosity and creativity while they play. Even if you don’t live nearby, these amazing playgrounds are near other kid-friendly attractions and museums, so grab your MetroCard or hop on a bike for a playground adventure you won’t forget.

A delicious dessert, whether ice cream, pie, or chocolate, is the perfect way to finish up a meal. Any meal. Alternatively, sometimes it's just best to skip the savory bit and set a direct course for the sweet section. Fast food desserts don’t get as much attention, but trust us, they’re worth it. We’ve done our research to find the best fast food dessert, so your burger or nuggets won’t be left hanging. Classics like the Sonic Blast and Wendy’s Frosty are cold and sugary, while Taco Bell’s Cinnabon Delights and Jack in the Box’s Mini Churros offer a hot, cinnamon-y option. These tantalizing confections are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, but which fast-food desserts are the absolute best? Where does your favorite rank on our list? Make your next takeout order a little sweeter with these top desserts. If you’re not sure of what to order on the savory side of the street, check out our guides to the best things to order at Chipotle, Taco Bell, Subway and Popeyes. While you're at it, be on the lookout for the best gas station snacks, including some super-sweet options.

Spring has sprung and the Easter Bunny is on his way. Grab your baskets and get prepped for one of the season’s most anticipated events: the Easter egg hunt in NYC. Of all the Easter events for kids in the city, there’s nothing like hunting for colorful eggs and sweet treats in the great outdoors. The best Easter egg hunts take place in parks around the city—making them one of the most fun outdoor activities for kids in the Spring—while others take place in shops and at family attractions. These epic eggstravaganzas will feature photo ops with the Big Bunny himself, music, food, crafts and more. Hop to it and check out these Easter egg hunts in NYC so you can plan the best Easter ever.

There’s tons to do in Atlanta. This city has that perfect mix of Southern Charm and a fresh, lively culture scene, as well as a heap of great restaurants, bars and more. But with the kids in tow, your trip is going to look a little different, and you’re going to need to keep them entertained with new things every single day.  Well, parents, luckily for you, Atlanta is the place to be for kiddos, whether you’re a local on school holidays or visiting for the first time. This marvelous city has family-friendly activities by the bucketload, from kid-friendly museums to outdoor attractions. Fancy renting bikes and pedaling the Beltline? Get on board. Kids obsessed with sea life? The Georgia Aquarium will keep them hooked for hours. From incredible science exhibits to wide open parks, here are the best things to do with kids in Atlanta.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Atlanta🎨 The best attractions in Atlanta🏛️ The best museums in Atlanta🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Atlanta with pools

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. 

  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.   

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.  

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. 

If your tots love to explore different fabrics and want to create a masterpiece, Pins & Needles gives them the perfect opportunity to take their DIY skills to new levels. Birthday parties offer options for little ones to explore with machine sewing by creating a cross-body purse or lets them use their hands while creating objects such as emoji pillows. Your youngster will love taking home a hand-crafted souvenir when all is said and done. Ages 7–14. 

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