Recess in Dumbo Offers Drop-In Play for Brooklyn Kids

Any business that already has regulars just weeks after opening must be doing something right. Recess d.u.m.b.o., a brand-new play space in Dumbo, Brooklyn, certainly qualifies. While NYC has no shortage of indoor play spaces, especially in Brooklyn, we're always game to check out fresh ones around town. As soon as my 5-year-old and I walked in to Recess, we were hooked! This unique romping spot is a welcome addition to Dumbo's kid-friendly offerings. We've got the scoop on what to expect from the nabe's newest drop-in indoor play space.

10 Things to do During Baby’s First Summer on Long Island

There’s plenty to do with the kids during the summer on Long Island--and even the island's littlest residents can get in on the fun. After all, your baby’s first summer is an exciting time, so you want to get out there and explore as much as possible. We’ve rounded up a list of 10 things you can do with your little one this summer. And for more activities and events happening in the area, check out our Summer Fun Guide.

Weekend Fun for NJ Kids: Blueberry Bash, Bluegrass Festival, Fun with Frogs, July 11-12

After the big barbecues and fireworks of July 4th weekend, it’s time to kick back, relax and just enjoy these lazy days of summer! Blueberries are the official state fruit of New Jersey and you can get your fill of them during Blueberry Bash at Terhune Orchards or the BlueBeary Blast at Camden Children’s Garden. For even more great family outings, check out awesome LEGO creations at Brick Fest Live, listen to live tunes during the Front Porch Bluegrass Festival or snap your pic with Ironman during Superhero Day at the Lakewood Blueclaws minor league baseball game.

Whatever you decide to do this weekend, we hope you enjoy it with family and friends. For even more activity options, check out our Event Calendar and our Summer Fun Guide.

Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 10-12

Summer gains momentum on the East End of Long Island in the weeks following July 4. Barbecues and beach parties are in full swing and nature lovers find an abundance of trails ripe for the hiking.

This weekend parents on the North Fork can entertain their children with nature games and tractor pulls, while those on the South Fork can enjoy boat building, baseball, historical celebrations and a night of marine discovery that just happens to coincide with the end of television’s “Shark Week.” And for more fun in the area, don’t forget our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Why All the Rainbows? 10 Books for Kids About Marriage Equality

Until recently, when asked by kids if two boys or two girls could get married, my standard answer was, "No, but they can be in love if they want to." On June 26, 2015, my answer to this common question changed for good—now it is simply, "Yes." For some children, the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges is a nonevent; for others, it is life-changing. Perhaps your little one noticed the deluge of rainbows on TV, or you’ve suddenly been invited to Uncle Bruce’s wedding to his longtime roommate. Maybe you're celebrating the historic ruling with your family, or you took a wrong turn and found yourself smack-dab in the middle of the NYC's Pride Parade. However the topic has come up—or even if it hasn’t yet—consider checking out one of these fantastic books to help explain inclusive ways to define family.

Splish Splash Water Park: Fun in the Sun for the Entire Family

The heat and humidity in the summer months leave many parents looking for fun ways to cool off with the kids, and one of my family’s favorite activities involves careening down a water slide. We’d previously stayed with the smaller water parks that cater to little kids, but recently we had the chance to pay our sponsor Splish Splash a visit. I was a bit apprehensive about graduating to bigger (and more intense) water slides, but I didn’t need to worry. With its tree-lined paths, kid-friendly coves and thrilling-themed slides, my two kids (ages 8 and 9 years old) both agreed that Splish Splash is the "best water park ever." Even my husband—who is not a big fan of amusement parks—had a fantastic day!

iPlay America Offers Action-Packed Parties for New Jersey Kids & Adults

New Jersey families are probably already big fans of  our sponsor iPlay America, the indoor amusement park and arcade in Freehold. From the Extreme Laser Tag Experience and iPA Go-Kart Speedway to the multi-sensory 4D Movie Theater Experience (and these are just the tip of the iceberg), it’s a guaranteed good time for kids of all ages, including Mom and Dad! So it’s no surprise that it also happens to be an awesome place to host a special event. Whether it’s a child’s birthday celebration or a more formal party, there is a package to fit everyone’s needs and—most importantly—budgets.

7 NJ Spraygrounds & Splash Pads You Probably Haven't Visited Yet

Get ready, get set, get wet at New Jersey’s newest spraygrounds! Water playgrounds have been making a splash in the Garden State over the past several years, providing cheap (or free), refreshing summer fun. As spraygrounds and splash pads grow in popularity, new ones have been popping up throughout the state. Check out these newcomers in the New Jersey splash pads scene. Best part of all -- every destination on this list is free!

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