It’s the Fourth of July on the East End of Long Island--the biggest weekend of the summer. What better time to unleash your child’s independent spirit? From the North Fork to the South, activities galore celebrate our nation’s heritage. Where else can you take in a parade in the morning, tall ships in the afternoon and--assuming your kids have enough staying power--a carnival and fireworks under the stars?  

Just in case you want to break away from Fourth of July fervor, there are plenty of other activities, as well indoor events just in case it rains on our holiday parades.

Be sure to check out our complete roundup of Long Island’s fireworks shows. And when you’re finished, browse our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

August is the new September. As July unfurls before us, we have to face the fact that, in most districts, August means back to school already. Most Los Angeles area schools now start their school years smack dab in the middle of summer, though one or two districts still cling to the time-honored "wait until Labor Day" approach. All of this can make summer camp complicated to maneuver for some families, even as others are knee-deep in homework.

From West Covina's August 5 start date (really, West Covina?  Really?) to Torrance’s September 10, don't just assume you know when school starts based on last year! Check our list of start and finish dates for the 2015-2016 school year in and around LA County before booking the family vacation.

Summer is expensive. There’s camp, and vacations, and a bazillion trips to the ice cream parlor (if you live in my house). Activities can also be costly: covering admission for an entire family to a museum is pricey, and don’t get me started on amusement parks.

Savvy Mommy Poppins readers already know that there is lots to do that is free, and many of our local theaters and museums offer free or discounted days throughout the month. This week the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the Huntington in Pasadena both have free days. One place always worth the price of admission, though, is the Hollywood Bowl; this week the Bowl screens Back to the Future; hard to believe it’s been 30 years…

The East End of Long Island has no shortage of coffee houses, where local artisanal flavors blend with Manhattan sensibilities to create some of the best caffeine creations. But where to go if you’re absolutely longing for a caramel macchiato (and don't want to drink it on the run), but are all wrapped up in mommy or daddy duties?

Along with kid-friendly eateries in the Hamptons and North Fork, there are also a handful of family-friendly coffee shops on the East End that will let you indulge your craving in an atmosphere sure to delight your little ones, and we've rounded up a few of our favorites. For more family fun in the area, be sure to check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

Is it me, or did June just fly by? July starts mid-week, and summer fun is in abundance. Independence Day rules with Jenkinson's Annual 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, Atlantic Highlands Fireman’s Fair and Fireworks in the Park. Or take an air-conditioned breather at Touch the Music, Kid Painting Party and Incredible Origami Animals. And don’t forget to check out our Event Calendar for even more options!

Summer is high season for travelers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t nail a deal. Boston, Washington, D.C. and Providence are excellent cityscape getaways for families living in the Northeast. If you crave the countryside, a lakeside vacation in Vermont will satiate your need for fresh air. Bound for Orlando’s theme parks? Kids save big on Amtrak’s Auto Train. Out West, there are good rates in steamy Arizona, scenic Santa Fe and seaside Pebble Beach. If Rome, Barbados or Grenada is on your wish list, now might be the time to think big. Dreamy Puerto Vallarta is offering a Mexican vacation, including hotel and airfare, to three lucky families. 

School is out for summer--let the fun begin! Many parents need to find ways to keep the kids occupied before camp starts, and this week there's movies at the Beach, festivals and fireworks leading up to the 4th of July that the entire family can enjoy.

For even more activities going on around LI, be sure to check out our Event Calendar. Spending some time on the East End? Take a look at our Hamptons & North Fork Guide.