Soak in the last few days of summer

Back to school this month! Where did the summer go? I hope everyone had the most wonderful summer. I cannot believe it’s already Labor Day. We have a few more days left before school starts, and we want to make sure we keep the kids cool. Without further ado, here are some ideas to keep your kids busy before school starts:

The Whitney Museum. This modern art museum, located on the High Line, is absolutely FabuLyss with its beautiful art and beautiful views. It is the perfect spot to take your kids for the day. Not to mention all the great shopping and restaurants in the area. I recommend eating at Bubby’s High Line — it is right down the street from The Whitney, and it is absolutely DeLysscious! And, the best part is, you get to take a stroll on the High Line. Maybe you’ll even catch the sunset and get an Instagram-worthy picture!

New York Aquarium in Coney Island. Fact: kids love animals and amusement parks. So, kill two birds with one stone. The aquarium and Luna Park are right next to each other. First, go see the sea lions and penguins, and then, grab a hot dog and hit the rides! It’s bound to be an incredible day!

Smorgasburg. Food festivals are great because, well, who doesn’t love food? I know that a lot of kids are picky eaters, but there is bound to be something at the FabuLyss festival for even the pickiest of noshers. It takes place in Brooklyn on Saturdays and Sundays. What’s better than a day filled with sun, laughs, and food?

A small trip. We will be taking the boys out East for several days. I want to get them paddle boarding and playing some miniature golf.

The new SeaGlass Carousel (pictured). It just opened in Battery Park. It’s a new, marine-themed merry go round. Rumors have it that there is nothing in the world like this.

Supply shopping. Of course, with a few more days left before school begins, make sure to do your shopping for supplies. We love Target! For clothes, we love Lesters and Bloomingdales.

A new ’do. A back-to-school haircut is a must. We love Cozy Cuts For Kids, Louis Licari Salon (Yes, this beautiful Fifth Avenue salon cuts kids’ hair), and of course, lots of kids love their local barber shop.

Whether it’s a new backpack, pair of sneakers, or haircut, it’s always great to go back to school feeling good and refreshed after an amazing summer.

Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLysscious Moms (www.divamoms.com).

YMCA Long Island Early Childhood/ Preschool Programs

YMCA Long Island Early Childhood/ Preschool Programs provide a safe and supportive learning environment for young children to grow and thrive. The YMCA of Long Island's Early Childhood/Preschool Programs are committed to providing a safe, supportive learning environment for young children to learn, grow and develop social skills. Our teachers create a warm and loving atmosphere while offering a developmentally-appropriate, engaging curriculum, where children can play, discover and learn. The development of independence, trust and initiative is fostered through a balanced program of choice and structure, quiet and active play, and group and individual time. Our programs encourage children to explore, experiment and learn through literacy, science, dramatic play, block building, art, music and manipulative materials all while acquiring school readiness skills of reading and math. Age ranges for Early Childhood/Preschool Programs are 18 months* - 4 years old. *Please check your local branch as ages vary per branch. YMCA Long Island Early Education/ Preschool Programs are offered at our Glen Cove, Huntington and Great South Bay locations. We offer a developmentally-appropriate, engaging curriculum, where children can play, discover and learn.

Williamsburg Northside School

<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: tahoma, sans-serif;">At Northside, our graduates will be comfortable being uncomfortable, for they&rsquo;ll recognize that resistance and friction are signals of growth, and they&rsquo;ll consistently seek out opportunities to expand the definition of who they are. They will be future-ready, able to thrive in challenging situations because they have the confidence and the wherewithal to embrace an ever-accelerating pace of change and adapt accordingly. They will be well on their way to becoming life-long learners that know what happens inside the classroom is a catalyst for the never-ending exploration of what lies beyond the school-house walls. And, most importantly, they&rsquo;ll be good, decent, and caring human beings that aren&rsquo;t afraid to show some emotion, that are quick to offer a helping hand, and that recognize that encountering differing opinions and perspectives only makes them stronger.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div>

Amazing Explorers Academy Williamsburg

Welcome to Amazing Explorers Academy, a premier STEAM-based preschool dedicated to fostering a love of learning and exploration in children aged 0 to 5. Our innovative and dynamic programs provide a nurturing environment where young minds can thrive and develop essential skills that will shape their future. At Amazing Explorers Academy, we embrace the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) approach, integrating these disciplines into our comprehensive curriculum. Through hands-on experiences and age-appropriate activities, children are encouraged to inquire, investigate, and discover, igniting their natural curiosity. We have many Enrichment programs included in our curriculum like Tiny Chefs, where your child is introduced to the joys of cooking and nutrition. Under the guidance of our incredible team, they learn to create delicious and healthy treats, fostering independence and creativity in the kitchen. Music and Movement is another integral part of our curriculum, enhancing children's motor skills, coordination, and self-expression. Beyond being a creative outlet, music&rsquo;s rhythmic and melodic patterns stimulate the brain, exercising it and aiding memory development. We also place a strong emphasis on Nature Exploration, recognizing the importance of connecting with the natural world. Nature as a classroom allows children to engage all their senses, appreciate nature, and form stronger connections to their environment and community. Central to our philosophy is the belief in the power of play-based learning. We understand that children learn best through play, and our skilled educators design play-based activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. Play-based learning nurtures creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills, all essential for success in the 21st century. Our highly trained and caring teachers are committed to creating a safe and nurturing atmosphere, where every child feels valued and supported. At Amazing Explorers Academy, we strive to inspire a lifelong love of learning, providing a solid foundation for future academic and personal achievements. Join us on this exciting journey of exploration and discovery, where every day is an opportunity to learn, play, and grow together!