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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

Every one of our children is a remarkable little person with a variety of special gifts. Some parents begin to suspect early on that they are raising a child who has academic gifts beyond the ordinary; and, although official labels of "academically gifted" aren't generally offered until elementary school, few parents of a gifted child are surprised when the official assessment arrives. So, if you already have a hunch that your preschooler is headed down a gifted path, how can you step up the game early and choose the best school to inspire a lifelong love affair with education?

Our sponsor My Spectrum School in Port Washington has developed a program that aims to maximize a student's potential and foster the cognitive, emotional, social and physical growth of any child—but with particular emphasis on nurturing the learning styles of gifted students. From preschoolers enjoying their first academic experiences to elementary school students looking for after-school enrichment, the school has a variety of programs designed to inspire.

For years the Woolworth Building, located in the Financial District, has been off-limits to visitors, allowing only the lucky few who scored tickets to the annual Open House New York festival to gain entry. Now, finally, anyone can take a tour of the famous skyscraper built by five-and-dime magnate, Frank W. Woolworth. Although the sign outside still says "no visitors allowed," official tours are offered regularly, giving a glimpse into the lobby and lower level of what was once the tallest high-rise in the world. On the tour, guests hear fascinating bits of trivia and history about the Woolworth Building and old New York. Here are just a few of the gems my family and I learned from our guide.

North Fork or South, along the ocean, Sound or bay, the East End is a nirvana to those who love the beach. But there are days when families prefer something other than sand under their feet (or rip currents around their ankles). Luckily, there are several well-maintained public pools to satisfy our urge to swim when we’ve had our fill of salt water.

The public pools below are ideal for families, low in cost and easy to access. All are staffed by certified lifeguards. Some may close for lessons or competitions; check their websites or call for the latest schedule and pricing information. Prices are as of July 2015.

And for the best in family entertainment throughout the East End, be sure to check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.