 Photo by Whitney Kidder Back to school. Cooler temperatures. Brooklyn is no longer a ghost town on the weekends… we’re here and there are things to do! We’ve gathered a list of activities from the very local puppet show and story times to a special Hootenanny 10 Year Anniversary Celebration… to the best apple picking around NYC. So, as we wave a sad goodbye to those warm summer days let’s embrace the beautiful Fall and all of the fun we’ll have with our families! Sugar donuts and apple cider? Yes please!
September 24th: Hootenanny Art House 10 Year Celebration at the Bellhouse, 10:30am: Sing, dance, make art, eat an enormous cake and watch an epic slide show of 10 years and celebrate!!!! Music with Pete Sinjin and friends, sing-along is all ages and kids under 1 are free. Get your tickets here: https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1530798 September 2nd: Zen Zoo Kids Yoga at the Boathouse in Prospect Park, 11am: This is the last day of the recurring event, so don’t miss out! Experienced yoga instructor Kat Janicka will lead these animal-themed classes in Prospect Park’s Boathouse. Asanas will be based in animal forms and shapes, and we will ommmm the sounds of the creatures in the wild. Class will be based on mindfulness, breath meditation, basic breath exercises for kids, visualization and laughter. Bring your own mat. Free. https://achildgrows.com/thecalendar/zen-zoo-kids-yoga-prospect-park/2017-09-02/ September 2nd – December 17th: Pinocchio at Puppetworks, Saturday and Sundays @12:30 and 2:30pm: Carlo Collodi’s 1883 Adventures of a Marionette. Adapted for Marionettes by Nicolas Coppola, (suggested for ages 3 and up). Admission for a Child is $10, an Adult is $11. http://www.puppetworks.org/ September 9th: Sample Free Dance, Movement, Tumbling and Theater Classes at BAX, 10am: Join the families of the BAX community, meet the BAX faculty and take a free sample class. Open house sample class schedule can be found here (pre-registration is strongly encouraged). http://youth.bax.org/general-information/classes/fall-open-house/ September 9th: Kids Campfire Conversations: ‘Being Brave’ at the Lefferts Historic House, 6:30pm: Join the Prospect Park Alliance and the Brooklyn Public Library for this campfire conversation for kids! The new school year brings new friends, new teachers and maybe a new school. Join us around the campfire for a conversation about conquering fears, building confidence and taking on new challenges. This event will be monitored by Tammy Hall and will feature music by Lucy Kalantari (of Lucy and the Jazz Cats). https://www.eventbrite.com/e/campfire-conversations-tickets-37063700526 September 17th: Sunday Story Time with John Parra (Illustrator of Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos) at Powerhouse on 8th Ave, 11:30am: Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos, written by Monica Brown and illustrated by John Parra, is based on the life of one of the world’s most influential painters, Frida Kahlo, and the animals that inspired her art and life. RSVP appreciated. http://powerhouseon8th.com/events/sunday-story-time-with-john-parra-illustrator-of-frida-kahlo-animalitos/ September 23rd: Family Cooking in the Garden at Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, 1pm: Bring the whole family to the Children’s Garden for an afternoon cooking class. The group will harvest ingredients straight from the garden and prepare one salad, one farm-fresh entree and one dessert to share. Members: $15, Non-members: $17 and children under 1 are free. https://classes.bbg.org/CourseStatus.awp?&course=17SCGFCGB Ongoing at the Park Slope Library: Have you checked out the Park Slope Library’s events lately? There is everything from “Stomp, Clap and Sing with Silly Jazz and Camille” (whose songs include “The Monster Under My Bed” and “The Muffin Man”), to activities for older kids (6+), like “Kids Create in the Garden”, where they can create a garden-related craft to take home. https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/list/?loc%5B%5D=10125 And we can’t end an events blog for September without mentioning apple picking!!! Time Out has collected a best-of list for where you can find the best apple picking near NYC. https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/things-to-do/best-apple-picking-farms-and-orchards-for-families-near-NYC Posted by Jen Valu
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 Looking for something special to do during the month of July with your family? Look no further. Here are 10 ideas, from taking your child “Phishing”, kayaking at the Brooklyn Bridge Park, and checking out interactive installations at the Kids Summer Family Day at the Whitney Museum of Art.
July 4th: Independence Day in Prospect Park, 12-5pm: Enjoy family-friendly activities at the Prospect Park Audubon Center, Lefferts Historic House and the Carousel. Activities include nature activities at the Audubon Center, signing a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence at the Lefferts Historic House and a ride on the infamous 1912 carousel. https://www.prospectpark.org/news-events/events/2017/7/4#independence-day-prospect-park-2017 July 4th (location: all over NYC): Do you have a little one that will stay up late and watch fireworks with you? Time Out lists best places to watch this year, including Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Brooklyn Heights Promenade: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/where-to-watch-the-4th-of-july-fireworks July 8th: Family Cooking in the Garden at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, 1pm-2:30pm. Bring the whole family to the Children’s Garden for an afternoon cooking class. Harvest produce from the garden, then try the kitchen tool, techniques, and recipes in the Children’s Garden that will also keep kids engaged in the home kitchen. The group will prepare one farm-fresh entree and one dessert to share. Member Fee: $15, Non-Member Fee: $17. https://classes.bbg.org/CourseStatus.awp?&course=17SCGFCGA July 9th and 23rd: Rock and Roll Playhouse at Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg, 12pm. On the 9th come check out The Music of Elvis Presley for Kids. And on July 23rd, Kids Gone Phishing: Baker’s Trio. Each workshop is 60 minutes long and is specifically designed for children 7 and under, but all members of the family are welcome to this family show. All ages, tickets are $10 (kids under 1 are free). http://www.brooklynbowl.com/event/1487392-rock-roll-playhouse-music-brooklyn/ and http://www.brooklynbowl.com/event/1469789-kids-gone-phishing-baker-s-brooklyn/ July 15th: Whitney Kids Summer Family Day at the Whitney Museum of Art, 10:30am – 3pm. Immerse yourself in movement at Whitney Kids Summer Family Day! Explore moveable sculptures in Calder: Hypermobility and interactive installations in Hélio Oiticica: To Organize Delirium. Join us for gallery activities, artmaking workshops, and a special Samba performance and dance party. You can also pick up a free Kids Activity or Audio Guide. Buy your admission ticket online in advance to save $. http://whitney.org/Events/Summer2017FamilyDay July 16th and 30th: Music In The Grove at Fort Greene Park, 11am-12pm: Free. On July 16th: Kids Concert W/ Rozz And Val Show.The Brooklyn-based high-energy duo Rozz & Val Show is coming to Fort Greene for an extra fun Sunday! http://www.fortgreenepark.org/events/2017/5/31/music-in-the-grove-kids-concert-w-suzi-shelton-sng5r-bms53. And on July 30th: Kids Concert With Hopalong Andrew. Come listen to some upbeat, urban cowboy tunes brought to you by Hopalong Andrew, a former Central Park Ranger! Bring your blanket and set it down by the trees just south of the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument for this free concert catered to children 0-8 years old. http://www.fortgreenepark.org/events/2017/5/31/music-in-the-grove-kids-concert-w-suzi-shelton-sng5r-bms53-rwsck-9m35n July 30th: Member’s Night for Children and Sunset Picnic, Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, 6:30pm-8pm. For members only (great reason to join prior)! Join the fun-loving bluegrass band Astrograss for an evening of singing and dancing, especially for the kids in your life! BBG educators will also be on hand with a special planting activity. https://www.bbg.org/visit/event/members_night_for_children Sundays through October: Smorgasburg, Breeze Hill in Prospect Park, 11am – 6pm. Find 100 vendors and food from all over the world every Sunday at Breeze Hill, located near Lakeside and the park’s Lincoln Road entrance. Presented in partnership with Prospect Park Alliance. Dog friendly. Rain or shine. Here is a list of the top 10 foods you might need to try this year: http://bbook.com/nightlife/10-things-you-need-to-eat-at-smorgasburg-2017/ Saturdays through 8/26: Kayaking In Brooklyn Bridge Park, 10am-3pm. For those with older kids, this is a fun adventure waiting for you! Free. Location: Pier 2. Glide along the water while kayaking with the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse at the Pier 2 floating dock! Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. All levels are welcome and no experience is necessary. There are doubles for one adult and no more than one child under 14 (or paddler that needs assistance). http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/events/kayaking Thursdays – Sundays through October: Makeryard, Brooklyn Children’s Museum (Crown Heights): Inspired by adventure playgrounds, MakerYard, Brooklyn Children’s Museum’s newest exhibition, invites children to test their motor skills and imaginations as they construct, build, and invent structures and other creations using everyday materials such as cardboard, tape, fabric, string and recyclables. Parents and caregivers are invited to sit back and let children explore independently, or work collaboratively to create together. http://www.brooklynkids.org/visiting-exhibits/ Posted by Jen Valu  Photo of Shipwrecked Miniature Golf, by Sai Mokhtari
OK…it’s starting to get hot, and it’s only going to get hotter. You’re in your little (hopefully) air conditioned apartment wondering how you and your family will be able to play and enjoy your day without melting into a puddle. You’re sick of the local playground water feature and need a change. What to do??? Here are some ideas, including awesome public pools and for those SUPER hot days…indoor play spaces! Shipwrecked Miniature Golf: Right in our back yard of Red Hook, take the family out for a fun day of miniature golf (perhaps followed by a seafood lunch at Brooklyn Crab – also in Red Hook)! This place is indoor, has 18 holes and even theatrical lighting and special effects as you travel through the different themed areas of the course! They also host singers, magicians, jugglers and more. 621 Court St, 2nd Floor. http://www.shipwreckednyc.com/ City Treehouse: For those who are adventurous and are willing to take your child into Manhattan, check out the City Treehouse. Inside this play area is an interactive water play, a treehouse themed indoor play area, even a cavern illuminated by stars! It’s in Chelsea at 129A W 20th St. (between 6th and 7th Ave), Manhattan. http://www.citytreehouse.com/ Lefrak at Lakeside: You probably know about the amazing splash pad with 41 jets (AMAZING)…but, have you considered the other activities here? Rollerskating of course… and what about renting a single or double surrey bike for your family, and go explore Prospect Park? OR, go on a pedal boat where they allow one lap child. You could spend an entire day here, there is so much fun to be had! http://lakesidebrooklyn.com/#page-content Brooklyn Public Pools: There are a plethora of free public pools right here in Brooklyn. A few of the favorites are the Red Hook Pool, the Sunset Park Pool, the Brooklyn Bridge Pop-up Pool and the Double D Pool in Gowanus. Remember to read all of the rules before planning your trip (check out “Know Before You Go” section here: https://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/outdoor-pools) The NY Transit Museum: This underground super COOL museum is where you can sit on a vintage car, sit at the wheel of a city bus and check out a real subway platform and tracks with cars from different times in history. The interactive exhibits are so exciting for the little ones. Boerum Place at Schermerhorn Street in downtown Brooklyn. http://www.nytransitmuseum.org/ NY Beaches: Of course there is Coney Island, but how about Jacob Riis in Queens? There’s a playground, concession stand and a boardwalk. Or maybe try Cedar Grove Beach in Staten Island, known as the cleanest of the Staten Island beaches. https://www.timeout.com/newyork/attractions/best-beaches SeaGlass Carousel: Pretend you’re underwater and check out the new SeaGlass Carousel, where you sit on an iridescent fish, instead of a horse – and “swim” up and around in all different directions. It’s amazing and such a quick subway ride on the R to Battery Park. http://www.seaglasscarousel.nyc/ American Museum of Natural History: Check out those dinosaurs and explore and discover in the “Discovery Room”, where kids can dig for dinosaur bones or search for animals in a baobab tree. Microscopes, animals and other fun things are there for your child to explore. There’s even a story time here on Monday mornings for preschoolers! http://www.amnh.org/learn-teach/pre-k-to-grade-2 NYC Water Taxi: Thinking about going into Manhattan with the family? Instead of the usual subway ride, get a little creative and take your family on the NYC water taxi from Red Hook into Wall Street! Best part…it’s free on Saturdays and Sundays. See the beautiful views of the NYC skyline while you cool off in the summer breeze. After, head over to Pearl Street where you will find several restaurants with outdoor seating. https://www.nywatertaxi.com/ikea While you’re at it, treat yourself to a gelato or an ice cream. The best ice cream in town can be found at Ample Hills Creamery, which has a location in Gowanus that includes a rooftop deck with chairs! And check out L’Albero Dei Gelati in the Slope for some incredibly yummy gelato. Bring on the heat, this can also be the most fun time of the year here in Brooklyn. Enjoy!!! Posted by Jen Valu  Let’s all agree, this isn’t the most lively time of the year. It’s cold, the excitement of the holidays is over, and the Spring seems so far away in the distance. The sun, if it’s out, isn’t warming us as much as we want it to. The playground is not usually the best option, unless we want to freeze and listen to our kids complain they are cold. So…what do we do? How about sampling some of the best hot chocolate NYC has to offer…or try out some origami? Here are ideas which are fun for ALL of us (parents included)!
If you’d like to stay warm indoors… * Try out the best hot chocolates Park Slope has to offer…Le Pain de Quotidien on 5th Ave let’s your child swirl the dark chocolate syrup into the frothy milk themselves (what kid doesn’t LOVE to mix everything)! There’s also The Chocolate Room and Colson Patisserie, both serve up a yummy cup of chocolate goodness. * Check out the Brooklyn Children’s Museum pop-up exhibit, Industry City, at 274 36th Street in Sunset Park. Through February 26th you’ll be able to check out an interactive art exhibit, which will ask kids what it takes to create a happy and healthy neighborhood. There are interactive programs for families with children 1-8 YO. Thurs-Sun. Free! * Go to a book reading at Powerhouse or Barnes and Noble in the Slope! * Try your luck at bowling at Melody Lanes in Sunset Park or Family Bowl on Saturdays at Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg. A major draw for Brooklyn Bowl is that you can enjoy some of the best fried chicken around, brought to you by Blue Ribbon. It’s SO good. * Get crafty at Taro’s Origami Studio at 95 7th Avenue, between Union and President. Follow directions on touch-screen tablets (fun for the little ones) or learn from the staff. Make your origami flowers, spaceship or whatever you choose – and decorate with stamps and paint! * Check out a new puppet show at Puppetworks, right here in our hood of Park Slope. Through April 9th, Puss in Boots will be performed! Based on Charles Perrault’s 1697 French Fantasy, with an original score. * Get that energy out at Bounce U, about a fifteen minute drive from Park Slope on 67th St and 9th Ave. $16 per kid, reservation required (remember to bring socks). There is a “preschool playdate” for kids 7 and under: * How about a little culture to brighten up that dreary cold day? BAM offers theater and film with kids in mind. On February 19th at 2pm check out a matinee of “Bon Voyage, Charlie Brown” about Charlie Brown and the gang traveling to Europe for fun and adventure. And for a live theatrical performance, check out Do Not Disturb (2/11-2/12), about factory workers assembling a giant wheel – combining dance, physical theater and a clown! Ages 6+. If you want to brave it and have fun outdoors… * The Prospect Park Zoo is open year-round! You can go celebrate the “Year of the Rooster” 2/11 – 2/12 from 11am-4pm. There will be puppet performances, a scavenger hunt, fortune cookies and a calligraphy workshop! * Also in Prospect Park, go ice skating at the Lefrak Center at Lakeside! There’s even a skate school and a hockey program if your child is interested. Grab a hot beverage after at the cafe! * The next time it snows, have a plan as to where you are going to sled! There of course is the big hill at 9th street in Prospect Park, but there are other spots in Fort Greene and Bay Ridge. Check this list for top sledding spots in NYC. Posted by Jen Valu  Check out these fun family events that will surely help get you into the holiday spirit. From family-friendly holiday themed shows like The Nutcracker, Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas and a Charlie Brown’s Christmas Live…to train shows at Grand Central and the NY Botanical Garden…from an Ice Spectacular Show at Lefrak to meet and greets with Santa himself right here on 5th Ave in Park Slope, there are many ways to celebrate and share the joy with our little ones!
* 15th Annual Holiday Train Show in Grand Central (Grand Central Station, Manhattan): November 14th – February 26th. Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat and Sun 10am-6pm. This year’s Holiday Train Show display will feature a 34-foot-long “O gauge” model train layout with Lionel’s model Metro-North, New York Central, and vintage subway trains running on eight separate loops of track, against a backdrop featuring graphics celebrating the Museum’s 40th anniversary by artist Julia Rothman. http://www.grandcentralterminal.com/event/15th-annual-holiday-train-show/2145462112 * Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas (Vital Theatre, 152 W. 71st St): November 19th – December 31st, Saturdays and Sundays at 11am and 1pm. Based on the NY Times bestselling picture book by Jane O’Connor. What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles – and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Ooh la la! This year, Nancy is especially excited. After selling some of her old gowns and accessories, Nancy has enough money to buy a brand-new sparkly tree topper. She can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous? http://fancynancychristmaslive.com/ 1 hr long. * Holiday Train Show (NY Botanical Gardens, Bronx): From November 19th – January 16th. Enchanting model trains zip through a display of 150 landmarks, each re-created with bark, leaves, and other natural materials—all under the twinkling glow of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Marvel at G-scale locomotives humming along among familiar sights such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Rockefeller Center on nearly a half-mile of track.Explore a winter wonderland across our 250 acres with special tours, a cappela performances, Winter Harmonies Concerts, a poetry reading with recently named NYBG poet laureate, Billy Collins, and activities for kids. http://www.nybg.org/hts16/ * Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade (Manhattan): 9am on November 24th. The annual pageant of giant balloons, floats, cheerleaders, clowns, marching bands, theater and Broadway in New York performances and celebs is one of the best NYC events in November. Read up here for recommended viewing areas: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/events-festivals/macys-thanksgiving-day-parade * Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar (501 Union, Gowanus): November 26th and 27th, 11am – 6pm. Free admission. Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar is a unique annual event that showcases the best of Brooklyn under one beautiful roof. The 4th edition will be packed with fine handmade goods, food, drinks, music, craft activities and more good times on Thanksgiving weekend. http://brooklynholidaybazaar.com/ * Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting (Rockefeller Center, Manhattan): The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a world-wide symbol of the holidays in New York City. The 2016 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be lit for the first time on Wednesday, November 30, with live performances from 7–9pm, at Rockefeller Plaza, between West 48th and West 51st Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues. https://www.rockefellercenter.com/whats-happening/2016/11/30/2016-rockefeller-center-christmas-tree- lighting/ * Charlie Brown Christmas Live (ShapeShifter Lab, 18 Whitewell Place, Brooklyn): Fri, Sat and Sun, Dec 2nd – 11th. Performance of the classic Charlie Brown Christmas special word for word and gesture for gesture. Jazz trio will play the iconic Vince Guaraldi score. For show times and details, go to: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2698281 * Santa on 5th (several locations on 5th Ave, Park Slope on Dec 3rd, 10th and 17th): Ho ho ho! Santa will be making appearances at 3 different locations on our very own 5th Ave during the month of September. Eat, Drink and spend locally – while saying hi to our friend visiting from the North Pole! Strolling carolers will be making an appearance as well. http://parkslopefifthavenuebid.com/event/here-comes-santa-clause-first-visit-of-three/ * The Colonial Nutcracker at the Walt Whitman Theater (Brooklyn Center for Performing Arts, 2900 Campus Rd, Brooklyn): December 11th, 2pm. An annual holiday favorite, Dance Theatre in Westchester performs its family-friendly, full-length version of Tchaikovsky’s ballet set in wintry colonial Yorktown, complete with a red-coated mouse army, an enchanted nutcracker prince, and simultaneous narration to help young audience members enjoy this timeless classic. 2hrs, 10 min including a 15 min intermission. Recommended for ages 5+. Tickets: $15. http://www.brooklyncenter.org/buy-tickets/calendar-of-events/view/The-Colonial-Nutcracker/ * Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Radio City Music Hall, Manhattan): The Radio City Christmas Spectacular 2016 literally kicks off the holiday season in NYC. Since 1933, the tap dancers, flying Santa and of course the Rockettes have put on one of the city’s most classic Christmas spectacles. If The Nutcracker from New York City Ballet is too stuffy and doesn’t have enough camels onstage for you, this show is the one to see. https://www.rockettes.com/christmas/ * Tree Lighting Party (Greenwood Park, Park Slope): December 7th from 6pm- close. The “biggest tree in Brooklyn”! Tree, wreaths, and decorations will be for sale in the holiday market. Bring the family to meet Santa – there will be hot coca, cider, food and drink specials! http://greenwoodparkbk.com/blog/events/holiday-tree-lighting-party/ * Ice Spectacular (Lakeside @ Lefrak Center, Prospect Park): December 18th, from 5:30 – 6:45pm. This annual winter show is FREE to watch and features figure skating solos, duets, and group numbers. Group number registration includes three half-hour rehearsals on Sundays before the show as well as skate rental, show accessories, and keepsake programs on performance days. Register in advance online or in person, limited space available. $40 for one (1) event, $60 for two (2) events. http://lakesidebrooklyn.com/event/ice-spectacular-winter/ Activities, Holidays, Local events, Park Slope  Photograph Courtesy of Brooklyn Bridge Park Harvest Festival
There is no shortage of family activities this October in and around Brooklyn. We have harvest festivals, Halloween parades and pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins!!! Need a pumpkin break? How about a creativity lab session or a drop-off art class for your little one. Read up below on the festive calendar of things to do with your family this month!
Posted by Jen Valu  Photo by TA Smith
Time to come to terms with the fact that summer is ending, and Fall and the new school year is upon us! Here are some ideas for fun family activities both in Brooklyn and the surrounding NYC boroughs, for the teeniest and the biggest kids to enjoy. They will surely help you through your end-of-summer blues! * Hansel & Gretel (Puppetworks): Starting on September 3rd and running through December 18th, this Brothers Grimm story will be performed by marionettes. Recommended for ages 3+. Saturdays & Sundays 12:30 and 2:30pm. Child: $9, Adult: $10. http://www.puppetworks.org/ * Lavendar Blues (LARK): Back in session on Saturday the 17th, this intimate music and movement session for babies and toddlers is held every Saturday at 9:30 and 10:30am. $10. http://www.lavenderbluesmusic.com/services.html * Play:Ground (Governors Island): Itching to get out of Brooklyn and try something new? Only a short ferry ride away, this play space is modeled after a junkyard, where a child’s imagination can really go wild using an assortment of materials, tools, water, dirt and things that others might describe as trash. Through September 25th on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-4pm. https://govisland.com/exhibitions/playground * Sensory Room (Brooklyn Children’s Museum): Beginning Saturday, September 17th at 2pm on Saturdays following, the sensory room is a welcome environment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other special needs. Sessions will accommodate 10 participants, pre-registration required. All ages, see here for the schedule. http://www.brooklynkids.org/calendar/2016/9/17/sensory-room * Moscow Ballet (Brooklyn Children’s Museum): Do you have a little ballerina? Join a ballerina from the Moscow Ballet as she performs a Russian children’s story, ending with an interactive dance activity for all! Ages 3+. 12-2pm on Friday, September 30th. http://www.brooklynkids.org/calendar/2016/9/30/moscow-ballet * Medieval Festival (Fort Tryon Park, Washington Heights): Time-travel back to the Middle Ages and enjoy its ancient forms of fun. Wandering Fort Tryon Park’s lush grounds, families can rub shoulders with performers and festivalgoers dressed in clothing typical of the era, listen to authentic period music, and watch the antics of jugglers and jesters. All ages. http://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/things-to-do/medieval-festival-at-fort-tryon-park * Museum Day Live! (Several Locations): On September 24th over 1,300 museums around the country open their doors to the public free of charge. Previous years included family-friendly favorites like the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, the Skyscraper Museum, El Museo Del Barrio, the NYC Fire Museum and the Museum of Arts and Design. Head to smithsonianmag.com to see which institutions are participating this year and to download a free Museum Day Live ticket. All ages. http://smithsonianmag.com/museumdaylive * World Maker Faire (NY Hall of Science, Queens): On October 1st and 2nd this show displays way-out-there experiments that will have your little mad scientists in awe. Past lineups have involved running through a life-size mousetrap, watching a Coke Zero and Mentos mountain explode, shooting marshmallows, flying model drones and powering your own DIY rides. Family passes (5 attendees) are available for Sunday, online advance purchase only. All ages. http://makerfaire.com/ Lastly, don’t forget about the Smorgasburg, every Sunday in Prospect Park 11am-6pm (http://www.smorgasburg.com/) and get in your last swim at one of NYC’s awesome public pools…the season has been extended until 9/11! Piece of advice: read the rules before planning your trip. https://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/outdoor-pools  Are you an avid tennis player and want to get your little one involved? Or do you have a child interested in tennis and you’re looking for a place to nurture their love of the sport? OR…not a tennis player, and wanting to introduce it to your family? Right around the corner in Gowanus you will find Court 16, the first (and only) kids tennis club in Brooklyn. This state of the art facility was created with kids in mind, from kid size courts with cushioned surfaces to bathroom sinks at kid-height. Tennis has so much to offer our children, like aerobic fitness, fine motor control, better eye-hand coordination, discipline and learning sportsmanship, among many other benefits. Finally we have a place dedicated to this great sport right here in Brooklyn! For this month’s interview we decided to talk to the founder of Court 16, Anthony Evrard.
SSP: I understand Court 16 is the first and only kids’ tennis club in Brooklyn. What does that mean – smaller tennis courts? What do you specifically offer for the kids? We offer perfectly kid-sized courts, which means permanent USTA-sanctioned 30’, 36’, and 60′ tennis courts – the optimal size for child athletes. This – along with the right instruction, racquet size and weight, and low-compression tennis balls – allows kids to grow at their own pace while building confidence and the right techique before moving onto the next format. From the courts to the locker rooms to the teaching methodology, our facility adapts to the kids, rather than the kids having to adapt to it. Based on their goals, kids can learn in private, semi-private, group, or camp sessions. Group sessions maintain a strict ratio of no more than 5 kids per 1 instructor, to ensure kids receive the attention they need, and are structured based on the child’s age and skill level. SSP: What is the mission of Court 16, in addition to teaching children how to play tennis? Our mission is to offer a unique and holistic tennis experience to kids of all physical abilities, and from all social and geographic backgrounds, in a safe environment curated specifically for them. Our holistic teaching methodology incorporates technique, strategy, and sportsmanship, connecting mind and body to develop confidence while building a solid technical foundation and love for the sport. SSP: Can you tell us a little about how and when Court 16 began and where the name comes from? Court 16 gets its name from court number 16 at founder Anthony Evrard’s tennis club in his hometown of Brussels, Belgium. Playing on the court since the age of 3, tennis inspired him to develop a “blueprint for life”, cultivating qualities of discipline, focus and fair play that have benefited all aspects of his life. Pulling from his decades of life in the world of tennis, Anthony’s desire was to create a modernized approach to the game, curated and remixed specifically for kids. Court 16’s flagship location in Gowanus held its soft opening in October 2014 before opening its entire 15,000 sq ft space to the public in August 2015. SSP: The photos I’ve seen of your facility are super impressive! Can you tell us a bit more about it and your courts? Court 16 has five permanent USTA-sanctioned 36’ tennis courts, a 30′ court for Little Freshmen (ages 2.5-3 years), and a 60′ court for advanced Juniors (ages 7-8 years), Seniors (ages 9-11 years) and adults. All courts are built using PREMIER COURT surfacing, the most advanced impact-absorbing cushioning surface out there – which is especially gentle on growing joints. Our bright and architecturally progressive interior is designed to excite young minds (and imaginations!), and a ton of other activations create a well-rounded experience – from ping pong tables sized perfectly for kids of all ages, to plasma screens showing iconic tennis matches. SSP: I think our families would be very interested in learning about the unique offerings like the monthly kids’ movie night and weekly adult tennis night. How do these events work? We believe in playing and growing as a family, which is why our memberships offer special savings for siblings, and complimentary membership for the parents. From themed kids events, to Friday Movie Nights for the kids and their families, to FOAM Tennis after-hours social events for the parents and friends, Court 16 is a community built for families. Plus, our new Adult Tennis Fitness and Adult Beginners Classes help our adult members raise their game to the next level! SSP: As you know we are a pediatrician’s office, with many young patients. At what age do children become involved in the sport and how does it work for the very little ones? Court 16’s classes are structured by age and skill set, and range from Little Freshmen (2.5 – 3 years) to Seniors (9 – 11 years). We excitedly introduce our youngest group of Little Freshmen to their first tennis racquet, engaging them to make contact with the ball for the first time. We’ll practice balance and movements through interactive drills, before moving onto exercises that build psychomotor and visual-motor skills. And of course, parents and caregivers are welcome to join their little ones on the court. SSP: Do you also host birthday parties, even corporate events? What’s this I hear about foam tennis? Birthday parties at Court 16 are designed to celebrate and engage kids, regardless of their level of tennis experience. Parties run for 90 minutes and include 45 minutes on the court – for tennis games and activities – and 45 minutes in the party space – for cake and candles! We host corporate events, team building activities, and leagues, incorporating Court 16’s FOAM Tennis for an engaging experience both on and off the court. Inspired by racquet sports played on small courts throughout the world, FOAM Tennis provides a high-paced, stress-free version of tennis that maximizes the number of rallies, while minimizing the impact on joints. It’s an awesome way for colleagues or clients to spend time together out of the office. SSP: How does one learn more about Court 16? Do you recommend a visit? The best way to experience Court 16’s community is to come check it out! To schedule a complimentary intro session and hang out with the team, visit our website, email us [email protected], or call us at (718) 875-5550. Posted by Jen Valu  In the month of August, Brooklyn is an especially quiet and sleepy place, with many folks out of town. Although the amount of special events happening is less than usual, there are definitely fun things going on…you just might have to look a bit harder and get more creative! Let’s explore some of them here, in this month’s roundup of fun family events in and around Brooklyn!
* World Elephant Day (Prospect Park Zoo): On August 12th (World Elephant Day), let’s trample the current Guinness World Records title and create 35,000 origami elephants to honor those lost each year for their ivory. http://prospectparkzoo.com/events/95 * North Slope Summer Strolls (Between Dean and Bergen on 5th Ave): On August 13th and 20th from 5-9pm, come out and play in the North Slope. There will be a rock wall, bouncy house, jugglers, face painting, music, hula hoops, vintage cars and more! http://parkslopefifthavenuebid.com/events/nsss1 * PJ Party at NY Kids Club (125 5th Ave): August is a great time to get out for that special dinner (maybe you’ll actually get a seat at your favorite restaurant)! And NY Kids Club has PJ Parties for our kids every Friday from 6-8pm so you can do just that. For kids 2.5 – 8YO, these parties feature gym exploration, art, story, games, relays and more. All parties include a disco dance party and dinner is provided! $36 per child. http://achildgrows.com/thecalendar/pj-party-ny-kids-club-park-slope-3/2016-08-06/ * Kids to the Rescue (Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Parkway, Crown Heights): Mon-Thurs 10am-5pm and Sundays 10am-5:30pm until September 1st. Free with Museum admission. This is your child’s opportunity to engage with an age-appropriate emergency scene and discover the dynamic police, ambulance and fire departments. Climb aboard life size emergency vehicles for imaginative play. Children will also learn to be prepared for emergencies with things like interactive dispatcher phones and “stop, drop and roll” drills. Real life NYPD police & FDNY firefighters will be there to talk to and take photos with. http://www.jcm.museum/page.asp?dept=2005&Article=500 * BK Block Party: Mario the Magician (Corner of Fulton & Bond): On August 13th let the kids party it up while you shop for fresh foods and hand-made gifts from Brooklyn vendors. From 10am-12pm, this features Mario “the magician” Marchese, an artist and inventor who creates his own props with a clever and refreshing integration of DIY electronics and robotics in to his performance. http://downtownbrooklyn.com/events/family-community * Family Fun with Suzi Shelton (Jalopy Theatre, 315 Columbia Street in Carroll Gardens): On August 28th from 11am-12pm, join award winning NYC family performer Suzi Shelton and various guests as she returns to her favorite venue in Brooklyn for a family show! Sip on a coffee or Bloody Mary while your little one delights in the music, then head next door to Jalopy Tavern for lunch. Kids: $5, Adults: $10, Family: $25. http://www.suzishelton.com/shows/ * Seaglass Carousel (Battery Park, Manhattan): Ready for an adventure and want to do something awesome and unique with your kids? Take the R just a few stops over the river to the new Sea Glass Carousel. Open 7 days a week from 10am-10pm, in this “underwater carousel” the rider sits within iridescent fish that glide around on 4 turntables. With color-changing LED light fixtures and integrated audio systems, “each fish is designed to recall the bioluminescence found deep in the ocean”. $5 per ticket. http://seaglasscarousel.nyc/ And for those super hot days, when you want to be INDOORS….SkipKid put together this great list of playspaces: http://skipkid.com/beat-the-heat-5-indoor-playspaces-that-will-keep-you-cool/#disqus_thread  written by Jen #supermom
Here is a list of FUN things to enjoy with your families this summer, from a SUPER fundraiser party to a Hindu lamp ceremony, to a Coney Island sand sculpting contest. There is something (SUPER) for everyone!!! * Jonah’s Just Begun “Heroes Among Us” Fundraiser (LeFrak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park): Want to be a true superhero??? Come out and support the event that South Slope Pediatrics is helping host for our little friend, Jonah, on July 23rd from 12-2pm. Your kids will have a blast having their face painted, talking to a costume superhero character and playing in the splash pad while you bid on must-have auction items….all while supporting a truly SUPER cause. Oh, and a full lunch is included! http://bit.ly/JJBHeroes * Pier Kids Performance Series (Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy): The Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy’s eight week children’s series encompasses culture, science, and literature. The program draws on a wealth of family musicians and cultural groups like the Central Park Zoo’s Wildlife Theater and the Puppetmobile, as well as notable Brooklyn children’s authors to create entertaining and educational events. Activities vary each week and are accompanied by arts and crafts and an outdoor pop-up reading room. Family-friendly activities with the Uni Project and Private Picassos from 11 am – noon. Performances from noon – 1 pm. Repeats Sunday every week through August 7th. For under 10 YO, FREE! http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/event-series/pier-kids-1 * First Discovery for Toddlers (Brooklyn Botanical Gardens): Calling all explorers 2–4 years old (and their caregivers)! Plant a carrot seed, touch a wriggly worm, nestle into a meadow nook to read a story, or create a unique nature craft at special Discovery Garden activity stations designed for toddlers. Activities rotate seasonally. Repeats every Tuesday through August 23rd from 9:30-10:30am (and the garden is FREE on Tuesdays this summer)!!! Ages 2-4. http://www.bbg.org/visit/event/first_discoveries_for_toddlers_summer * Environmental Education Center Open Hours (Brooklyn Bridge Park): Get to know Brooklyn Bridge Park by visiting the Environmental Education Center’s 250-gallon aquarium filled with critters from the East River, a 10’-scale model of Brooklyn Bridge Park, crafts, a reading corner, and much more! FREE. Repeating every week Tuesdays & Thursdays through November 22nd from 3-5pm. http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/activities/classroom * Coney Island Friday Night Fireworks (Coney Island Boardwalk): Can’t make the 4th of July fireworks this year? No problem! You can see them every Friday night from 9:30-10pm through September 3rd. For the best seating, locate yourself on the boardwalk or beach between West 10th Street and West 15th Street. http://www.coneyislandfunguide.com/Events/Coney-Island-Friday-Night-Fireworks_6_17_2016-4651.htm * Youth Summer Programs (BAM): For kids 6-16 years old, the youth summer programs at BAM engage kids with a passion for creativity. Includes musical drama and dance, digital art, creative writing and animation sessions. Weeklong and 2-week programs offer extraordinary opportunities to build skills in a dynamic environment while making new friends. Runs weekly from July 5th – 29th. http://www.bam.org/programs/2016/summer * Hindu Lamp Ceremony (Pebble Beach, Dumbo): Help bring peace and harmony to our shoreline. Aeilushi Mistry performs the traditional Hindu Aarti ceremony at the park and enjoy a dance performance by a guest artist. Saturday, August 6th from 4-8pm. FREE. http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/events/hindu-lamp-ceremony-1 * Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest (Coney Island Beach): On Saturday, August 20th, this FREE family event is open to amateurs and semi-professional sand sculpting artists of all ages competing prizes and bragging rights. More details forthcoming at: https://www.facebook.com/ConeyIslandSandSculpting/ |
Jen Valu
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