Nassau

Super Skate Parks for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Thu, 08/09/2018 - 6:00am

If your adventuresome little skater dude or gal likes to carve and ollie, turning your furniture and household items into a skating playground, then this post is for you.

Take them instead to one of these skate parks across Long Island, where roller skaters, bladers, skateboarders, trick bikers, and more can show off their stunts, fully padded and protected of course. Note: Most of these facilities are skate at your own risk and require parental waivers for skaters 16 and younger. Check requirements before heading out.

And for more fun in the area, check out our list of great g o-kart and slot-car destinations on Long Island, and be sure to check out our Long Island Events Calendar.

Great STEM Classes for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Tue, 08/07/2018 - 12:00pm

If science and technology are to develop, the world needs innovative minds to keep dreaming and creating.

STEM and STEAM programs emphasize science, technology, engineering, art, and math to develop the brains of the future, our kids. More schools, camps and museums across Long Island are offering classes and workshops with a focus on STEM education. Check out some of our favorite programs below.

Little engineers, rejoice.

The Best Family-Friendly Hotels on Long Island

Submitted by Rebekah Yahoves on Fri, 08/03/2018 - 4:05pm

No one grooves on the magic of a hotel stay more than kids. The swimming-pool smell, the room-service abandon, and the I-must-have-done-something-right feeling sparks through them the minute the swoosh open the lobby doors.

With that in mind, we've put together our list of the best kid-friendly hotels in Nassau and Suffolk, and even added a few on the East End. So whether you’re frequenting local attractions or hosting out-of-town guests, these destinations are sure to delight teeny travelers and discerning grown-ups alike. Happy travels.

Fishing on Long Island: Where to Drop a Line with Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Fri, 07/27/2018 - 11:30am

Ready to teach your little one how to cast a line? Fishing is a fun outdoor family activity with deep roots in Long Island's maritime history and culture.

Surrounded by the sea, kids on Long Island can drop a line in a number of waterfront communities, beaches, local piers, boats, and parks. We've rounded up a few of our favorite family-friendly fishing venues where you can test your skills and perhaps hook the catch of the day.

Looking for more summer seaside enjoyment? Make sure to visit these stunning Long Island lighthouses or Long Island boardwalks ideal for a family stroll.

Support Groups, Play Groups, and More for LI Special-Needs Families

Submitted by Ayesha Edwards on Thu, 07/19/2018 - 1:30pm

Families of special-needs children encounter special challenges. The good news is, on Long Island there are quite a lot of resources available for support.

Many times these challenges are not anticipated. Although caregivers might get some relief from drop-off respite programs, other support services can be required. The firms and agencies below offer support programs ranging from personal care and training to financial services, and even playtime.

For more information, see our guide to special-needs services on Long Island, including a look at the region's top sensory gardens, inclusive playgrounds, and more.

The Best Ice Cream Shops Near Playgrounds on Long Island

Submitted by Rebekah Yahoves on Sat, 07/14/2018 - 2:20pm

Summer was made for ice cream and exuberant swoops down the slide in the toasty sun.

Here are our picks for magical treats near Long Island’s pristine parks and our favorite playgrounds. And while you’re thinking about sweet treats, check out our list of old-fashioned ice cream parlors on Long Island and the best candy shops for kids in our region.

For more dining and dessert inspiration, see our guide to kid-friendly restaurants on Long Island, including information on outdoor dining, birthday freebies for LI kids, and more.

Enjoy.

5 Inspiring Firefighter Museums Near New York City

Submitted by Angela Johnson on Fri, 07/13/2018 - 4:00pm

Kids love firefighters. And who can blame them? Brave men and women who drive around in shiny red trucks—and actually save lives—are kind of like real-life superheroes. And a chance to try on equipment, climb aboard fire trucks, and have questions answered by some of these superheroes themselves could be your little firefighter fan's dream come true. Luckily, the New York area is home to several museums dedicated to firefighters that are great for the whole family.

If you're looking for fun indoor activities to help you beat the heat (or the rainy day blues), here are some of the kid-friendly firefighter museums in our area where you and your kids can learn how firefighters do their jobs, plus how to prevent fires in your own home, and how to act in a fire emergency.

New Splash Pad at Jones Beach is Sure to Delight

Submitted by Rebekah Yahoves on Thu, 07/12/2018 - 12:45pm

Let your kids spray away the heat and sprint away their energy against a sapphire horizon studded with beach umbrellas at Jones Beach State Park’s new splash pad. The facility is located at the Central Mall area by Parking Field 4 and opened in late June.

Toddlers, school-aged kids, and tweens will revel in their ability to push the round buttons and send water cascading through stalk-shaped pipes and pattering to the ground, where it gurgles up around their feet.

This showery diversion is a great addition to Long Island's top sprinkler parks for kids and another reason why Jones Beach, in central Nassau, is one of our favorite Long Island beaches for families.

8 Kid-Friendly LIRR Stops for a Fun Day Trip

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Mon, 07/09/2018 - 3:53pm

Let’s face it. Traffic on Long Island is no picnic. In fact, sometimes the thought of taking a day trip to another part of this beautiful island makes us cringe when we think of the hours on the road and the challenge of keeping the kids in the backseat entertained.

But there is a another way to get from here to there…the LIRR! Taking the train is a convenient, fun way for families to get around the Island without the hassle of driving. From beach communities to charming downtowns to family-friendly museums, there are plenty of LIRR stops where families can hop off and explore the area for the day.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite family day trips reachable via the LIRR, highlighting the best attractions and sights in the area. All aboard!

Top Beach Playgrounds on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 07/08/2018 - 11:30am

Long Island beaches offer the opportunity for memory-making experiences. Some of the best include those times spent frolicking on the playground to the soundtrack of crashing summer waves.

We've rounded up some of the best beach spots to play in Nassau, Suffolk and the East End. So pack a lunch and plan to spend the day enjoying these destinations. Make sure to snap pictures of the smiles from a fun day in the sun.

And remember Long Island has plenty of f amily-friendly beaches. While you're at it, why not check off a few activities on our list of 25 things we can't wait to do with Long Island kids this summer.

On a budget? See our list of 50 FREE things to do with kids on Long Island this summer.