Danielle Valente

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, but more importantly, the holiday honor the women and men who served our country. The long weekend is marked by a variety of activities and celebrations throughout the city, from parades and picnics to parties and concerts. These celebrations are not just for adults, however. There are plenty of activities on Memorial Day for kids in NYC. You can head out to the beach or play in the park, or check out these 2025 Memorial Day celebrations with the kids happening throughout the weekend and on Memorial Day—Monday, May 26, 2025.

Being a kid in NYC has serious perks: the whole city feels like one big playground. With tons of parks, green spaces, bike paths, beaches, hiking trails and next-level playgrounds, outdoor fun is everywhere. But when the weather doesn’t cooperate—too hot, cold or rainy—you’ve still got options with plenty of indoor activities for kids in NYC. NYC is packed with indoor adventures that will keep them busy and happy, no matter what’s happening outside. Want something educational? Try a kids’ cooking class or explore one of the city’s many museums designed with little ones in mind. Feeling competitive? Hit up a bowling alley, arcade or indoor mini golf course. You can even go all-in at an indoor amusement park. No matter what your kid’s into, these indoor spots deliver big on fun—rain or shine.

One of the best ways to spend a summer day? That would be heading to a local farm to pick your own fruit (and eat it on the spot). Come June, it's time to start thinking about cherry picking in New York. There are great farms just a short drive from the city in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Most spots go beyond cherries—you’ll find hayrides, farm markets and even petting zoos—offering plenty of activities or a full day out. It’s an easy, fun family day trip, and you'll come home with a load of sweet, delicious cherries to snack on or turn into delightful, homemade treats. If you can’t get enough fresh-picked fruit, strawberry and blueberry picking season are right around the corner too. When is cherry picking season in New York? Cherries tend to ripen in late June or early July in the New York area, but because mother nature is in charge, be sure to call ahead and check farm websites to make sure the cherries are ready to pick. Cherries are at their best for a brief window, so mark your calendars and make plans to head out when the sweetest, ripest cherries are ready.

Feeling hungry? NYC's best cooking classes for kids will help cure the munchies!  In these courses, children of all ages will learn new recipes, master different meals and feel comfortable handling kitchen equipment. Essentially, you're going to have a Top Chef in the making, so get ready to hand over the dinner reins to your brood. From the offering at Freshmade NYC to Taste Buds Kitchen, Gotham's cooking classes for kids are the best of the best. Buy a few aprons and let the youngsters do the rest. Bon appétit! If your kids feel like taking a night off from their culinary duties, check out fun restaurants around town, grab a cone at NYC's best ice cream shops and take advantage of these cookie delivery services. 

For a holiday celebrating a miracle, Easter gets short shrift in the movies. Sure, there are plenty of faith-based flicks covering the reason for the season, but for those who celebrate the day in a more non-secular fashion, there’s really no It’s a Wonderful Life or Planes, Trains and Automobiles – an instant go-to to put you in the mood for a day of hunting for painted eggs and inhaling jellybeans. If you want to find a film the whole family can enjoy, you have to hunt. But that’s what we’re here for. On this list, we’ve turned over every proverbial rock, log and couch cushion to uncover the Easter movies most worth streaming this year – and, in lieu of actually having anything to do with the holiday, at least heavily involve candy and/or rabbits. Recommended: 👪 The best family movies of all-time🤣 The best funny family movies🧒 The best movies for toddlers🐶 The best animal movies for kids

The South’s largest city boasts a wealth of attractions, historic sites, renowned restaurants and bars, music venues, a vibrant nightlife scene and an eclectic range of entertainment options that draw throngs of visitors each year. For those with little ones in tow, Atlanta can be just as entertaining. There are plenty of family-friendly activities and things to do with kids in Atlanta, with opportunities for kids of all ages (and attention spans) that are both entertaining and educational. Museums and markets can keep both kids and adults busy, while the Beltline, leafy parks and other outdoor activities are perfect for burning off energy. Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca Cola will hold kids’ attention for hours. Kids can appreciate the South’s rich history and charm, and these things to do with kids in Atlanta will make your next visit a memorable one.

Whether you view Disney as a benevolent dream factory or a corporate monolith hellbent on world domination, the truth is that everyone has at least one mouse-ear-branded property that it holds close to their heart. Wherever you stand on Disney, you can’t deny that it has churned out some of the greatest animated movies of all time – and a few great live-action ones, too.  But that’s not to say everything the House of Mouse has produced is worth your time. Far from it, in fact. For every classic there are at least five direct-to-video sequels you’ve never heard of, some minor disaster you barely remember and, in recent years, a stream of utterly unnecessary remakes. That makes navigating a vast streaming platform like Disney+ an overwhelming task. To help you separate the WALL-Es and Dumbos from the Mars Need Moms-es, we swan-dived Scrooge McDuck-style into the Disney catalogue and pulled out the 50 can’t-miss picks for your next family movie night. Recommended: ✍ The 100 best animated films of all-time👪 The 50 best kids movies to watch as a family🤣 The best family comedy movies

NYC is a paradise for kids who love to play outside. Playgrounds of every kind offer spots for running wild, making friends and sparking creativity. There are classic slides-and-swings setups, but many playgrounds in NYC also boast imaginative, design-forward features that make playing feel like an adventure. And when summer hits, the city's water playgrounds—complete with splash pads and sprinklers—become go-to spots for staying cool. Every neighborhood has its local playgrounds, but some are worth venturing out for, even if it means a little travel. These playgrounds aren't just places to play—they're destinations that rival some of the city's best kid-friendly attractions. Whether it's climbing a quirky structure in Brooklyn, dashing through water jets in Queens or exploring a futuristic play space in Manhattan, these parks are where unforgettable memories are made. NYC playgrounds do more than just burn off energy—they give kids the freedom to explore, imagine, and connect. They offer a safe space to be bold, creative, and active. No matter the season, there's a playground ready to be conquered. So, pack a snack, lace up those sneakers and get ready to explore some of the best playgrounds the city has to offer.

Seguro que más de una vez habéis hecho u os han hecho esta pregunta: ¿Qué película me recomiendas para ver en familia? Pues aquí tenéis medio centenar de recomendaciones de cine del bueno, para todos los públicos, claro. Reunid a los vuestros y coged un buen bol de palomitas: ¡las mejores películas familiares os están esperando y os decimos en qué plataformas podéis verlas! Hemos reunido un poco de todo: clásicos, de dibujos animados, películas de princesas Disney, niños de los 90... ¡y todo lo que os podáis imaginar! ¿Lo que queréis es reíros? Poneos 'Los Goonies'. ¿Lo que os apetece es una de animales? Poneos 'Mi perro Skip'. Os garantizamos que tenemos películas para todos los gustos y aunque no tengáis pequeñajos y pequeñajas cerca, recordad que la mayoría de estas películas también merecen un lugar en la historia del séptimo arte. NO TE LO PIERDAS: Las mejores comedias y otras películas de buen rollo para ver en Netflix   Clica aquí si quieres más información sobre nuestros estándares editoriales y nuestras directrices éticas para crear este contenido

Segur que més d'una vegada heu fet o us han fet aquesta pregunta: Quina pel·lícula em recomanes per veure en família? Doncs aquí teniu mig centenar de recomanacions de cinema del bo, per a tots els públics i us diem en quines plataformes les podeu veure. Reuniu els vostres i agafeu un bon bol de crispetes: les millors pel·lícules familiars us estan esperant! Hi hem posat una mica de tot: clàssics, de dibuixos animats, pel·lícules de princeses Disney, nens dels 90... i tot el que us pugueu imaginar! El que voleu és riure? Poseu-vos 'Els Goonies'. El que us ve de gust és una d'animals? Poseu-vos 'Mi perro Skip'. Us garantim que tenim pel·lícules per a tots els gustos i encara que no tingueu xicotets i xicotetes a prop, recordeu que la majoria d'aquestes pel·lícules també mereixen un lloc en la història del setè art. NO T'HO PERDIS: Les millors comèdies i altres pel·lícules amb bon rotllo per veure a Netflix Fes clic aquí si vols més informació sobre els nostres estàndards editorials i les nostres directrius ètiques per crear aquest contingut.  

Parents hear all about the difficulties of raising a teenager, but the tween years aren’t much better. Sure, they may not yet be a hormonal know-it-all insisting upon their independence, but now they suddenly have ‘opinions’ and ‘feelings about things’, and they expect you to respect them. That includes movie nights. Where your happy little butterball could once be pleased with anything loud and fast-moving, now they’re getting more discerning. At the same time, they’re not so desperate to prove their maturity that they’re demanding a legal thriller or a Merchant Ivory costume drama. So how do you choose the right flick to please all audiences? To help you through this short-lived but awkward time, we’ve rounded up 36 movies guaranteed to excite and entertain anyone between the ages of ten and 12. And the good news is that much of what works for that demographic is the same stuff you loved at the age, from ’80s blockbusters to silly comedies to adventure flicks to movies about young love and the struggle of growing up. Stream one of these and hold off on the headaches for at least another day. Recommended: 🎒 The 100 best teen movies of all-time👪 The 50 best family films to stream on movie night🤣 The 35 best family comedy movies

Toddlers are bundles of energy, always eager to explore their surroundings and keep you on your toes. Taking them out in public can sometimes feel overwhelming, but fortunately there are plenty of things to do in NYC with toddlers that make outings enjoyable, engaging and manageable for the whole family. These activities allow little ones to embrace their natural curiosity, move freely in safe environments and—thankfully—keep their tiny hands away from fragile objects. For families who love the outdoors, NYC’s parks and playgrounds provide plenty of space for toddlers to run, climb and play to their heart’s content. Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park offer scenic, interactive spaces perfect for energetic toddlers. On rainy or chilly days, indoor attractions such as children’s museums, play spaces and interactive exhibits offer fun, hands-on learning experiences. No matter your preference—outdoor adventures or indoor entertainment—there’s always something exciting to keep little ones engaged in NYC. Best of all, these activities help toddlers burn off energy while stimulating their imagination and development. With any luck, all that fun will lead to a peaceful, well-earned nap afterward.

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.  

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. 

When Esaie Couture isn't helping new designers show their collections at New York Fashion Week or providing models with the confidence they need to walk the runway, it's encouraging little ones and teens get creative with fashion design classes, camps and a STEAM fashion program. All ages. 

While adults are styling the perfect leather clutch or mastering the basics at Sip & Sew, little designers in the making (10–14) can attend a sewing summer camp or celebrate their birthdays with a kids' group party. Make sure to sign your high schoolers get a spot at one of the teen designer series—teen prom dresses is next on the list. 246 W 38th St, Fifth Floor (917-864-6420, thenewyorksewingcenter.com). Various ages. 

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