Suzy Q

Latest posts by Suzy Q

Best Bike Riding Paths for NYC Families

Submitted by Suzy Q on Mon, 04/05/2021 - 12:58pm

Explore the Brooklyn Greenway on two weeks to enjoy wide open paths, and stunning views. Photo by Sara M.

When the city's subway system was deemed only for essential trips during the pandemic, many New Yorkers turned to their two-wheeled companions and hit the bicycle paths in record numbers. Whether your family is one of them, or you're itching to enjoy the sunny spring and summer days ahead in a new way, New York City is home to miles of bike paths, and more are added seemingly every day as NYC becomes a more cycling-friendly city.

Knowing you might not want to set the kids loose on city streets, we've rounded up the best bike paths for New York City families to explore on two wheels—or with scooters, skateboards, and rollerblades, too. Many of these bike paths come with a little bonus fun, from nearby playgrounds to kid-friendly eats and even a sprinkler to romp through.

Find more fun city adventures in our Guide to Outdoor Fun.

5 Reasons to Visit the New Shirley Chisholm State Park in Brooklyn

Submitted by Suzy Q on Mon, 09/09/2019 - 2:03pm

Shirley Chisholm State Park is named in honor of the first African American Congresswoman, as well as the first woman and African American to run for President.

Shirley Chisholm State Park opened to the public July 2019, bringing over 10 miles of new biking and hiking trails to the shores of south Brooklyn. New York City's newest state park transforms a former landfill into a lovely waterfront destination accessible from the Belt Parkway or the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Canarsie and East New York. For a look at the new park and a peek at what's next, read on.

Cartoon Illustration and Graphic Novel Camps and Classes for NYC Kids

Submitted by Suzy Q on Fri, 05/31/2019 - 10:25am

Harlem School of the Arts. Photo by Adrienne Elise Tarver for the school

Are your kids obsessed with graphic novels? News flash: They're far from alone. If you're a parent of a child in elementary or middle school, you're probably already aware that we're living in a veritable golden age for graphic novels aimed at children, thanks to talented author-illustrators like Raina Telgemeier (of Drama and Smile fame), Kazu Kibuishi (author of the massively popular Amulet series), Cece Bell (author of the Newbery Award-winning El Deafo), and even graphic novel adaptations of classic tales from A Wrinkle in Time to Greek mythology.

If your young reader is interested in creating a graphic novel or illustrated story of their own, there are plenty of classes and camps in NYC designed to encourage young storytellers. "Comic books and visual arts, in general, have become much more understood as viable paths for young people that have talent in visual art," says A.K. Lovelace, a professional illustrator and instructor at the Harlem School of the Arts. Whether your child is just starting out in cartoon Illustration or you have a child preparing their portfolio for high school or contests, here are a few programs to support your budding artist throughout their creative development.

8 Things to Love About Japan Society: Visiting the Japanese Cultural Center With Kids

Submitted by Suzy Q on Thu, 05/30/2019 - 10:00am

Children's Day programming at Japan Society includes awesome workshops for kids.

One of the best things about raising kids in New York City is that a unique cultural experience is usually just a short walk, bus, or train ride away. Most cultural institutions in NYC host special family programming, festivals, workshops and language programs, and NYC's Japan Society, formed in 1907, offers a varied and rich calendar of events for kids, all set against a beautiful backdrop of indoor gardens, including a waterfall.

If you are fascinated by Japanese food, film, and folklore, but short on time or money to travel abroad, the Japan Society is an affordable alternative for the culture-seeking family. During my visit, one Japan Society member and father of two children ages 3 and 4 put it best, “It gets me as close as I can to experiencing Japanese culture without having to go to Japan.”

6 Writing and Art Contests and Opportunities Just for Kids and Teens

Submitted by Suzy Q on Thu, 03/28/2019 - 10:18am

Young writers and artists are encouraged to explore the art of storytelling in these just-for-kids contests. Photo by Mark Bolton

When my daughter was in fourth grade, she was struggling socially and academically—but I noticed that any free time she had was used typing away on the computer. Eventually, I took a peek into her writing folder. There were several compelling short stories and poems, way better than the writing assignments she was turning in for school. With the hope that positive affirmation from a source outside of school would inspire her, I sought out kid-focused writing initiatives that might encourage her to develop her budding skills.

As children get older and their interests and personalities develop, special opportunities and internships can foster their passions and develop their strengths. If you have budding artist, writer, or future game designer in your home, take note of these contests and opportunities from the likes of Scholastic and Time to help kids, tweens, and teens explore and showcase their creative work, while boosting their skills and confidence—including two amazing opportunities with deadlines that are right around the corner!

4 Must-See Art Exhibits for NYC Kids

Submitted by Suzy Q on Fri, 02/15/2019 - 3:13pm

Observing a wall of Warhol’s Flowers,1964.

Have you ever seen an ad or a notice for an excellent art exhibition and thought, “I would really like to take my kids to go see that!” and before you knew it, it was gone? With so many world-class museums and cultural institutions in New York City, it can be a challenge to narrow down your options.

The Brooklyn Museum just unveiled an exciting new Frida Kahlo exhibition this month, and the Whitney, the Guggenheim and the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art and Storytelling also have great shows on display that will be closing this spring. Read on for your kid-friendly guide to four museum exhibitions currently in NYC that are too good to miss.

Homeschooling: Great Resources for NYC Families

Submitted by Suzy Q on Thu, 02/07/2019 - 10:28am

The idea of homeschooling can be intimidating, but you might be surprised by the many homeschooling resources in NYC. Photo via Bigstock

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to homeschool your child? With its richness of museums, family programs, concerts, architecture, and parks and playgrounds, New York City might just be the best classroom in the world. But for many families, figuring out how to homeschool can be daunting. Here are a few resources to help you get started on your homeschooling journey.

Where to Eat With Kids in East Harlem Now

Submitted by Suzy Q on Thu, 01/31/2019 - 10:00am

Savor some delicious tacos at La Avenida

You can easily spot Upper East Siders and locals headed to East River Plaza on the bus and train. They have cumbersome foldable shopping trolleys, oversized backpacks, a child or two in tow, and a look of determination. However, experience has taught me that shopping can work up an appetite. When you are out and about in East Harlem with kids and hunger strikes, here are a few newer restaurant options to have in your back pocket.