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50 Free Things to Do with Long Island Kids This Summer

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 06/23/2017 - 2:45pm

Does the thought of summer break make you think of breaking the bank?

In between camps, parties, sitters, and trips, the next two months can get costly. And for a family with more than one child, even a trip to the water park can add up. But summer doesn’t have to strain your wallet: We have compiled a list of 50 FREE things families can do together. From outdoor concerts and movies, to museums, classes, and festivals, Long Island has something going on all summer long. So put that pocketbook away, grab the sunscreen, and enjoy some family time because before you know it, back-to-school sales begin.

Check a few more things off your bucket list with our Summer Fun Guide and 25 things we can't wait to do this summer. Feeling really ambitious? Here are 100 things to do with Long Island kids before they grow up.

Register for Free Swimming Lessons for NYC Kids

Submitted by Jody Mercier on Tue, 06/20/2017 - 9:30am

The New York City Parks Department offers FREE aquatic programs for children under 18 all year round, as well as adults, but you have to apply through an online lottery for each session. Summer swimming lessons are on the horizon; the lottery for the first two-week session opened on Monday, June 12 and runs through Sunday, June 25.

Summer swimming takes place in NYC's many outdoor pools, which open Thursday June 29, and are held each day during a session, meaning it's a great summer vacation activity to fill up the day for kids out of school.

Read on for the details on where to swim for free, or check our directory of paid kid swim classes, mommy-and-me swim lessons for babies and toddlers, including those specifically in Brooklyn and in Queens.

Indoor Swimming Classes for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Kimberly Chacon on Tue, 06/13/2017 - 12:30pm

Long Islanders often boast of long weekends at our family-friendly beaches and endless opportunities for indoor aquatic activities. With proper swim instruction, children can be safe and have fun around our many waterways. From private swim classes to community pools, there are plenty of swim instruction destinations from which to choose. The great thing about these pools is that when summer is gone, kids can continue classes and add to their skills. There are schools for those as young as 6 months, continuing through lifeguard training.

In addition, Long Island has well-maintained outdoor pools for long days of family fun, including these on the East End. For even more outdoor adventures, see our guide to Long Island's best parks and playgrounds and our guide to LI's best amusement and water parks.

6 Must-Try Laser Tag Arenas for Houston Kids

Submitted by Carrie Taylor on Mon, 06/12/2017 - 12:05pm

It's no secret today's kids love video games. It's this universal truth that makes laser tag such an appealing activity for kids and adults - it gets you moving (like, really moving), and simulates on-screen experiences in real time. There are some great options in Houston where kids, both young and old, can play this high-energy game.

And for more fun ideas for indoor activities when you need to escape the weather or your own house, check out our indoor activities guide.