Massapequa

Top Mommy-and-Me Baby Classes on Long Island

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Mon, 07/01/2019 - 6:10pm

We’ve rounded up some of the best mommy-and-me classes on Long Island, ideal if you want to to stay fit or learn a new craft. You and your baby will have fun, meet other moms and tots, and, most importantly, spend precious time together.

From Zumba to yoga, cooking and art, there are plenty of ways to nurture your baby’s mind, body, and creative spirit. Not to mention your own. Of course, classes are open to dads, grandparents, and other caregivers. Be sure to check class websites for times, costs, and registration details.

Long Island Restaurants Where Kids Can Eat Free

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Sun, 01/06/2019 - 10:25am

Who says nothing is for free anymore? Not these kid-friendly Long Island restaurants, where kids occasionally can eat FREE and you can relax. It's ideal for families with picky—or not-so-picky—eaters who want to enjoy a nice meal without the aggravation of paying for food that goes untouched.

From pizza to pasta, fast food to waitress service, and pub fare to ethnic dishes, check out these locations the next time your family is looking for a stress-free dinner. Promotions change, so be sure to check first before you go.

Bon appetit.

Massapequa With Kids: Beaches, Parks, and Plenty More

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 10/21/2018 - 5:00pm

Massapequa is massive.

From its northernmost boundary at the Southern State Parkway (technically North Massapequa) to the waters of South Oyster Bay, this community within the Town of Oyster Bay extends through the village of Massapequa Park to the Suffolk County border at Amityville.

Residents boast of Massapequa's award-winning public schools. But also included is a bustling downtown along Park Boulevard and a thriving beach community on the South Shore, making Massapequa a jewel in Nassau County. Read on to see what makes this area attractive to families.

Spanish, French and More: Foreign-Language Classes for Kids on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Thu, 02/01/2018 - 10:53am

Learning another language can be beneficial. Research has shown that language learning can improve memory and problem-solving skills. It can help you multitask; performance in other academic areas is improved; and it can help us navigate and communicate in our increasingly diverse communities, workplaces, and schools.

Learning a new language can be fun. However, if you have less than fond memories of sitting through high school Spanish or French classes, don't fret. There are a number of schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties that offer classes—including mommy/daddy-and-me—to expose your child to a new world of words and phrases. It's easier for babies and young children to master another language than it is for teens and adults. Learning with your child can be a bonding experience and something that you can share for years to come.

Depending on the school, classes are offered in levels from beginners to advanced. Prices for classes vary by school; contact each directly for costs.

And be sure to look at our classes and enrichment guide for more ways to learn what your kids might enjoy.

Ice Cream and Cereal Bar Spoons Opens on Long Island and OMG

Submitted by Natalie Ferro A... on Thu, 07/27/2017 - 12:35pm

Your family may have eaten cereal hundreds, even thousands, of times in your life, but have you ever spooned down a bowl of your favorite childhood brand mixed into a serving of velvety decadent soft-serve ice cream? Well, this isn't just a kid's dessert fantasy. It's a reality at the recently opened Spoons in Seaford on Long Island.

The cereal bar-ice cream shop offers a small express window behind a slew of stores off of Merrick Avenue. It's dishing up tons of brand-name cereal varieties and more cool toppings for ice cream. So, of course, we did the hard work and tasted-tested the new ice cream spot. Read on for our review.

Find more sweet treats at these area candy shops, or check out our guide to Family-Friendly Long Island Restaurants.

NOTE: Spoons is closed for the season. Reopening in April 2018. It also expects to open a second location in 2018!

Free Outdoor Movies for Long Island Kids This Summer

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Thu, 06/22/2017 - 12:30pm

This summer when the sun goes down, chances are a free, family-friendly movie will be playing outdoors somewhere on Long Island. It’s an ideal way to spend family time under the stars. So spread a blanket, bring a few lawn chairs, pack some snacks or perhaps a picnic dinner, and enjoy the show.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is best to arrive early. And be sure to check each venue’s website for up-to-date information on weather-related cancelations.

For more outdoor family activities, check out our roundups of the best places for a family picnic and the best beaches for families on Long Island. Plus, our Event Calendar and Summer Fun Guide are loaded with ideas for more seasonal fun for your family. Happy summer.

Just Escape LI Will Thrill Kids and Adults

Submitted by Felissa Allard on Thu, 02/16/2017 - 12:30pm

Think you can escape? From the Queens border east, escape rooms are taking Long Island by storm. But what exactly is an escape room and why should you check one out?

Read on for our review of Long Island's latest escape room, Just Escape LI in Massapequa, and find more indoor family fun zones in our Sports Center Guide.

Free Summer Children's Shows in Nassau County

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Wed, 06/18/2014 - 9:08am

Not all summer entertainment for children has to come with a hefty price tag. In fact, several shows across Nassau County on Long Island are being offered for free. We've rounded up those local concerts--now all parents need to do is grab a lawn chair or picnic blanket and get ready to shimmy, shake and smile with the little ones! And we have a roundup of free Suffolk shows, too.

Looking for more cool things to do together? Check out our Summer Fun Guide of the Best Things to Do With Long Island Kids.

9 Great Karate & Taekwondo Schools in Nassau County

Submitted by Linda DiProperzio on Wed, 03/05/2014 - 12:00am

When I was looking for a karate school for my (then) four year-old son, I made a point of looking at smaller businesses where I was hoping he'd get more personal attention. One year later, he's an orange belt and learning more than just how to do a mean back kick. Whether it's discovering how to handle bullies, improve fine and gross motor skills, or making sure your child is getting enough exercise each week, studying karate can benefit kids in many ways.

Here, a list of some of Nassau's best dojos where your child can start to study karate or Taekwondo. And be sure to check out our Inside Activity Guide for more indoor sports and events that kids can enjoy year-round.