Thien August

Latest posts by Thien August

25+ Great Spring Day Trips for Long Island Families

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 04/07/2019 - 12:30pm

The winter cold has just turned, and summer break is still a few months away. But you are already itching to get out and get away, even if it’s just for a day.

Living on Long Island, we’re lucky to have so many amazing parks, attractions, and quaint seaside towns for springtime day-trip visits. We’re also lucky to be within driving or ferry distance of New York City, Connecticut, and New Jersey. These areas offer even more fun and exciting experiences for the whole family.

The Best Children's Playgrounds on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 04/05/2019 - 10:32am

An abundance of parks and playgrounds makes Long Island a wonderful place to raise a family. These destinations are, of course, great places for little ones to get valuable exercise and to have fun. They are also ideal places for parents to chat while kids play. Feel free to get in on the action because kids love it when parents get silly and have fun, too.

We’ve scouted the best playgrounds across the Island—in Nassau and Suffolk, and on the East End—where you’ll find plenty of space for you and your little ones. For more playground inspiration, check our guide to day trips to Long Island's top parks and playgrounds, including our top playgrounds for toddlers.

Long Island Destinations for Delicious Hot Chocolate

Submitted by Thien August on Tue, 01/29/2019 - 10:00am

When the snow starts to fly during a Long Island winter, a tasty hot chocolate can help to take the chill away.

Adults and kids across Long Island enjoy hot chocolate, especially when it’s topped with marshmallows, whipped cream, or both. And while you can make it at home, isn't it nice to get out of the house with the kids? It squashes cabin fever, and there’s no cleanup for you. With that in mind. here are 18 places across Long Island that serve up delicious hot chocolate and other tasty treats.

If hot chocolate isn’t your thing, why not try one of these spots for afternoon tea with the kids? See our guide to family-friendly restaurants for even more dining ideas on Long Island. And for more seasonal possibilities, check out our Winter Fun Guide and Long Island events calendar.

The Best Indoor Play Spaces for Long Island Toddlers

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 01/25/2019 - 12:30pm

While many indoor play destinations cater to a range of ages, some parents feel more comfortable when areas are designated for younger children. With that in mind, we've rounded up a list of fun and imaginative play spaces on Long Island geared to little ones.

At most of these locations, children ages 5 and younger are the primary focus and can play freely without being knocked down or bumped into by older crowds. They also offer age-appropriate equipment and activities for toddlers.

If your little one enjoys spending time at one of these venues, why not celebrate his or her special day there, too? Many of these destinations also host birthday parties.

For more seasonal fun ideas, check out our list of 50 things to do indoors with Long Island kids as well as our guide to LI-based indooor play spaces and fun centers.

Indoor Swimming Pools for Families on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 01/11/2019 - 10:25am

If you haven't had a chance to get away this season and spend time by the pool, there's still hope—and you don’t have to brave the crowds at the airport to get there.

Why not visit one of the many indoor swimming pools Long Island has to offer? We’ve rounded up some of Nassau and Suffolk County's most affordable and family-friendly indoor pools that are open to the public. Check out each location’s website for family swim schedules and rules, as well as information on lessons. And don't forget to take a look at your school district’s website under the “athletics” link or similar to determine if it offers a community swim program.

For swimming lessons around Long Island or other kid-friendly activities you can enjoy in winter, check out our guide to indoor play spaces and our Long Island classes and enrichment guide.

Nassau County Summer Day Camps for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Thien August on Wed, 01/02/2019 - 12:30pm

It's never too early to think about summer. There are family vacations to organize, and then there's the issue of what to do with the rest of the time. Summer camp is an excellent option for many families, and day camps can be affordable and fun.

Camps across Long Island are beginning to hold open houses, so it might be time to figure out where to send your little ones once school lets out. Looking for a general camp? How about one just for preschoolers? Or how about a camp for older children? Here we check out the best camps Nassau County has to offer.

From special events, programs that focus on art, sports, or science, to field trips, these camps are sure to create fun experiences and great memories. Each camp below has its American Camp Association accreditation; for a comprehensive list, check out our Long Island Camp Guide and our directory of camp listings. A guide to Suffolk County camps can be found here.

Suffolk County Summer Day Camps for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Thien August on Wed, 01/02/2019 - 11:00am

When school doors close for the summer, camp doors open wide, and kids across Long Island gear up for new adventures and experiences. Camp should be fun, and families have so many great choices in Suffolk County. Whether you have a first-timer or a seasoned camper, parents want to make the right choice for their kids. We're here to help with our list of the best camps for canoeing, sports, art, learning, and most of all, having a blast.

These Suffolk camps offer activities and events to keep kids happy all summer. Different camps offer different amenities and programs, including half- and full-day options, door-to-door transportation, and travel programs for older campers. Many camps hold open-house events and tours, so bring your kids and pick the one that suits your needs.

We've also got our picks for great Nassau County summer camps. For more summer camp ideas, check out our Long Island Summer Camps Guide and our directory of LI camps.

New Year's Eve Celebrations for Long Island Kids, 2018

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 12/23/2018 - 10:00am

Break out the noisemakers and ring in 2019 with the family. Just do it a few hours earlier, so the kids can take part, too.

There are plenty of family-friendly New Year's Eve events across Long Island. Head to a museum, enjoy a roller skating party, fireworks, or celebrate with dinner and dancing. Best of all? No cleanup required.

We've rounded up 15 great options for the big night that allow everyone to have fun and, hopefully, no overtired little ones the next day.

Don't forget to check out our list of 30 fun things to do over the school holiday break to keep the kids busy all week. More family fun can be found in our events calendar and Holiday Fun Guide.

Thien August

Thien August

Latest posts by Thien August

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