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Everything You Need To Know About Kid Parties in a Socially Distant NYC

Home | Fun | Page 7

Everything You Need To Know About Kid Parties in a Socially Distant NYC

June 25, 2020/in Celebrate, Fun, Guide, Party/by Shine

There’s good news if your child has a summer birthday: New York City moving toward reopening after the statewide PAUSE. As of June 8th, our region entered phase one, meaning that 10 or fewer people may gather. By phase three, we’ll be allowed to gather in groups up to 25.

Is a Kid Birthday Party Risky During a Coronavirus Pandemic?

At this point, any contact outside your home pod elevates your risk of COVID-19 transmission, but the 1 percent virus positive test rate is minuscule enough that having a small backyard gathering may not raise the hairs on the back of your neck, especially if you’re friends with several other families that generally minimal contact with others and practice social distancing.

True social distancing can be a challenge with young children. Ideally, each guest would remain six feet apart and wear masks in close passing or when dishing food. Older kids may be able to follow these guidelines, but you may want to consider hosting a Zoom party or a more structured format for younger kids.

Socially Distant Kids’ Birthday Party Ideas

There are many ways to celebrate a child’s birthday, even with social distancing in place:

  • Birthday Parades – Decorate a special chair into an honorary “throne” for the day and set it up curbside, while friends and family drive by with balloons, signs, and music playing. Oriental Trading has a number of themed decorations you can pass out to guests before the big day. You could also ask your guests to dress up in old Halloween costumes to make the parade more entertaining. Gifts can be dropped off to a point person at the end of the caravan if you wish.
  • Movie Parties – Drive-ins are likely to be all the rage this summer. Staten Island BBQ will be showing classic kid-friendly films like Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Greenpoint’s new Skyline Drive-In overlooks the East River and Manhattan skyline and welcomes guests who may not have a car to park as well. If you have a grand to spend and would like a more intimate backyard movie party, you could hire Arcade Specialties – or you could source your own materials for less.
  • Picnic Parties – A number of NYC restaurants offer picnic takeout and there are plenty of parks to choose for your setting. Blue Moon Mexican Café offers birthday takeout for six, which includes fixins’ for tacos or fajitas, a dessert platter, beverages, sombreros, and birthday candles. Armed with little more than a cooler, a basket, and a blanket, you’ll have a unique and memorable way to celebrate a birthday with one or two other families. Social distancing will be easier to follow, using the blankets themselves as “safe zones.”
  • Zoom Parties and Virtual Performers – Everyone can join a party from their own comfortable space at home, while a virtual performer sets the agenda so it’s meaningful for the participants and not just anarchy. BubbleDad can wow kids with bubble characters, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, and shared secrets on how to blow the perfect bubble. Yogi Beans will virtually host up to 25 kids with themes like unicorn, safari, or undersea that take kids through yoga activities, a Choose-Your-Own adventure, and a birthday singing – all recorded for your viewing pleasure later. Hire My Fairytale Party to have your child’s favorite princess, hero, or character sing, read, and play games with your group. Sammie & Tudie’s Imagination Playhouse offers an interactive 30-minute Zoom “comedy magic circus” geared toward ages 3 to 8. Kids ages 7+ can make a clay creation – like a bird, shark, dish, cupcake, or dinosaur — led by Clay Art Center or you can have your group make something yummier (like pizza, soft pretzels, muffins, or cookies) along with Taste Buds Kitchen.

Shine Party Boxes Make Your Social Distancing Event Special

This summer, we are pleased to offer the best in high-quality child birthday entertainment, whether you’re celebrating in the backyard with a small group or connecting virtually with friends from afar.

Custom Curated Birthday Party Boxes have been in high demand during quarantine. It’s the next best thing to a fully hosted event. We’ll create custom curated party boxes based on whatever theme you’d like and send them out to all the kids attending your virtual party.

Our first-ever party box, delivered to the birthday child and each invited guest, featured a jolly good pirate theme, complete with costumes, props, treasure maps, gold doubloons, treasure, stickers, tattoos, and all the art supplies needed to make our signature treasure chest craft.

On the day of your event, we’ll dress the part, singing, dancing, and performing live music to complement your theme. Our programming is highly customizable with games, surprise character visits, and baking or crafting activities. We’ll work with you to ensure your child feels attended to on this momentous occasion.

Other Shine birthday options include:

  • Online classes – Enjoy our signature mix of art, music, cooking, crafts, exercise, and more from the comfort of your own home – in a private family session or with friends!
  • Craft bags – Shine Director Aaron Goldschmidt leads engaging Zoom classes paired with craft bags delivered to the homes of all party attendees. Complete up to four signature Shine crafts. We’ve done lanterns, wreaths, decorated journals, puppets, masks, flower pots, vases, bird feeders, tie-dye, bridge paintings, sand art, and more. Check out our quarantine craft bag highlight to see some of what we offer.
  • Private day camps – Host up to eight kids (ages 4-11) with activities ranging from arts and crafts, outdoor science, and nature exploration, to sports and games, percussion workshops, and educational programming. Space is very limited, so email info@shinenyc.net to reserve your spot asap!

We want to help you through this difficult time! Call 212-414-5427 or email info@shinenyc.net to learn more about offerings, options, and pricing.

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Fun Ways To Observe Presidents Day With Kids in NYC

February 10, 2020/in Celebrate, Fun, Guide, Taste/by Shine

Monday, February 17th is a federal holiday established in 1885 to celebrate the birth of first U.S. president George Washington. His birthday was February 22nd, but the holiday can range from the 17th through the 21st, depending on where the third Monday of the month falls. This arrangement was part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968. Observance of 16th President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (which falls on February 12th) was also included as one of the provisions in the new act. Other February birthdays include Ronald Reagan (6th) and William Henry Harrison (9th). Nowadays, we typically celebrate ALL presidents on this civic holiday, but you can observe it however you wish. 

Do not tell a lie – and bake a cherry pie. 

One of the most famous stories of George Washington’s life dates back to his childhood. As the story goes, George was six years old when his father bought him his first hatchet. He loved it so much, he cut down everything in his path. He hacked away at the bark of an English cherry tree in his mother’s garden until it died. When his father confronted him wondering what had happened to the tree, George confessed: “I cannot tell a lie, you know, I cannot tell a lie; I did it, I cut it with my hatchet.” This story was first chronicled in a biography by Mason Weems, but it has been passed down generation after generation as the sort of honesty and respect for one’s parents we hope will stick with our own children.

Given the story, a popular Presidents Day tradition around the country involves the symbolic baking of cherry pie. This basic recipe calls for little more than Crisco, flour, egg, sugar, and a can of pie filling to whip up something spectacular with your child in the kitchen. Oh, and don’t forget the vanilla ice cream! If you’re looking for a more five-star recipe that doesn’t sacrifice some measure of taste for simplicity, you can try Food Network’s “Best Cherry Pie” recipe, which uses tart cherries, lemon juice, and almond extract for extra flavor. Strangely, there is no record of cherry pie in Martha Washington’s cookbook, but we did unearth her recipe for Cherry Bread and Butter Pudding you might try for something more authentic!

Take an historic trip.

Just over four hours south of here — in Alexandria, Virginia – you’ll find a month-long tribute to George Washington himself, not to mention one of the best family-friendly vacation destinations. The nation’s largest and longest-running George Washington Birthday Parade dates back to 1976 and snakes one-mile through the streets of historic Old Town Alexandria. 

Other events include:

  • The 12th Annual Cherry Challenge 
  • George Washington’s Alexandria Walking Tours
  • Chocolate with General Washington for Kids
  • George Washington’s 18th Century Evening Banquet and Ball
  • A Family-Friendly Scavenger Hunt for Washington
  • Free Concert at Market Square

Visit Washingtonbirthday.com for more details. 

In addition to these special events, Alexandria has more than 140 locations with ties to America’s first president. George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, is a must for families with a live blacksmith, interactive exhibits, farm animals, gardens, and pet-friendly walking trails. Be sure to grab a bite at Gadsby’s Tavern, which served as a central hub for founding father social life with distinguished patrons such as George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe. 

Of course, history is not the only reason to cart the whole family down to Virginia. While you’re visiting, be sure to blow off steam at Scramble, a café and colorful indoor play space geared toward kids 0-8. Bundle up to stroll the independent boutiques down King Street, or ice skate in the winter village at Cameron Run. Alexandria is home to a world-class archaeology museum, the National Inventor’s Hall of Fame, art galleries, and an African-American History Museum – enough family-friendly attractions to keep you busy the whole break week long. And remember, you’re just a hop, skip, and a DC Metro jump from the Smithsonian Museums and other delights of our nation’s capital. 

If you’re looking for something warmer, you might consider heading to GeorgeFest in Eustis, Florida – a lakeside community north of Orlando. This celebration of Washington’s birthday dates back to 1902 and features parades, carnivals, chili cookoffs, races, character breakfasts, and concerts.

Ponder the presidency with an activity book, story, or video. 

Presidential trivia doesn’t have to be boring. Consider these fun ways to explore history together: 

  • For little ones: Reading is a wonderful way to bond with your child. Big, bold pictures combined with enjoyable text make these presidential reads tops in our books: The President of the Jungle; This Little President: A Presidential Primer; and Future President.

If you’re crafty, consider making these adorable mini president figures out of wood, pipe-cleaners, acrylic paint, and cloth. Or create a George Washington wig and Abe Lincoln hat out of construction paper for a Presidents Day photoshoot with your little one.  

  • For elementary-aged kids: Who doesn’t love the catchy songs, adorable animations, and guest star cameos of The Storybots? They’ve got a free downloadable Presidents Day activity book with coin quizzes, mazes, illustration prompts, word search, spot the difference game, and instructions how to make an Abraham Lincoln mask out of a paper plate to keep the kids busy for a while. 

Grades 2-6 can learn more about the presidency with the Constitution Center’s 22-minute newsy rundown of the Executive Branch. Next, embark upon The Smithsonian’s virtual tour of The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden, an exhibit featuring Lady Bird Johnson’s dessert plates, Lincoln’s split rail fence, and a collection of First Lady inaugural gowns, among other items. 

If your child is a budding reader, What Presidents Are Made Of is a unique combination of mixed-media art and small vignettes from the lives of our chief executives for grades 1-5. Kids just getting into chapter books can be inspired by NY Times best-selling “Who HQ” series, where you’ll find kid-friendly accounts detailing the lives of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, in addition to so many others.  

  • For middle-school kids: During the Civil War, it became customary to read George Washington’s Farewell Address on his birthday. It can be a dense read for kids, so we recommend Study.com’s five-minute video that breaks it all down. 

Be sure to check out Kid Presidents: True Tales of Childhood from America’s Presidents — a neat read for adults and nine to 12-year-olds alike.

Presidents vs. Aliens is a cool downloadable app for Apple and Android devices, which teaches presidential facts, quotes, historical events, and nicknames mixed with a chance to fling president heads at aliens in a bowling-style game.

For a more sophisticated problem-solving game, try iCivic’s Executive Command game for PCs, which allows kids the opportunity to try their hand at the presidency for a term. They’ll propose an agenda, build a cabinet, sign bills into laws, and delegate tasks to federal agencies. Even adults find it’s a fun, interactive way to brush up on the powers of the presidency. 

Check out local NYC Presidents Day events taking place all week long.

There’s no shortage of presidential activities in NYC:

  • Presidential Storytime (Mount Vernon Hotel and Museum)

When: February 21, 10:30 am

For Kids ages 6 and under: Hear humorous stories about Washington and Lincoln, dig through a trunk of historic clothes, and make a finger puppet in a historic setting. 

  • Living History: Meet the Presidents (New York Historical Society)

When: February 15, 16, and 17th, 12–4 pm

For all ages: Meet and mingle with costumed characters resembling George Washington, James Madison, and others. They’re happy to tell stories of how they made their mark on history before you enter the new Meet the Presidents exhibit at the New York Historical Society.

  • President’s Week in Prospect Park

When: February 17th-21st, 12:00 – 4:00 pm

For all ages: Prospect Park Alliance hosts family-friendly programming at Lefferts Historic House and the Prospect Park Audubon Center all week long:

  • Wild in Winter: See what the birds are doing this winter.
  • Discovery Pack: Pick up a ready-to-go nature kit with activities for families.
  • Migration Games: Play floor games replicating the stages of bird migration.
  • Animal Encounter: Learn about the animals in the Audubon Center’s collection.
  • Great Backyard Bird Count: Submit checklists to help researchers assess bird health.
  • President’s Day Trivia: Enjoy trivia and birthday cake for George and Abe.
  • Coming in from the Cold: Create a small jar of scented salve for a healthy home.
  • Washington’s Birthday Ball (Mount Vernon Hotel and Museum)

When: February 16th, 1:00 – 3:00 pm

For all ages: Sample historic recipes, take a museum scavenger hunt, and learn 19th century dances with costumed characters. Adults 21+ are invited to toast to George Washington.

  • Washington’s Birthday Open House (Fraunces Tavern Museum)

When: February 15-16th, guided tours 1-2 pm 

For ages 8+: Visit the Scott Gallery, where you’ll see a new exhibit — A Stoic Countenance: Portraits of George Washington exhibition. Then see a lock of Washington’s hair and a fragment of his tooth in the McEntee Gallery! If you arrive for the special guided tour included with your $1 museum admission, you’ll hear all about President Washington’s connections to NYC, from his early years as a militia colonel, to his greatest military defeat, to his ascension to the presidency.

If you’re looking for more enrichment, consider programming offered by Shine, TriState New York’s leading provider of pop-up classes and parties for kids.

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6 Best Fall Foliage Hikes for East End Families

October 15, 2019/in Celebrate, Fun, Guide, Learn/by Shine

“Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn,” said Garden Designer and Writer Elizabeth Lawrence. We agree that autumn is a blissful time, where trees burst with dying beauty and blaze like torches, lighting the way to winter – but we disagree that you have to “sit still” to partake in all the glory of the year’s grand finale.

Philosopher Henry David Thoreau tells us, “An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” Gathering our families up for a fall foliage hike is a treasured tradition for us here in the East End. Create warm family memories, enjoying an active, bright, clear weekend at one of these East End New York City hidden gems.

Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge

(2595 Noyack Road, Sag Harbor)

This wildlife haven sits on a 187-acre peninsula overlooking Noyack and Little Peconic bays. Birdwatchers delight in autumnal migrations of double-crested cormorants, horned grebes, beach sanderlings, common loons, Forster’s and arctic terns, and turkeys. Cold-stunned loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley turtles wash ashore to warm up on their way south for the winter. The endangered osprey boasts a commanding presence at Morton, with at least two nesting pairs active in the area for three decades. Sharp-eyed tots may even spot resident eastern chipmunks, eastern cottontail rabbits, gray squirrels, red fox, or white-tailed deer.

Laurel Lake Park and Preserve

(5501 NY-25, Laurel)

The preservation of Laurel Lake is part of the Peconic Land Trust, dedicated to maintaining the natural beauty of 480 acres of land, including 14 miles of well-groomed trails clearly marked for your family to follow. A winding two-mile loop trail will take you up and down changing topography through towering cedars, oaks, dogwood, and laurels around the lake. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic lakeside picnic tables. A playground adds to the fun for your youngsters. 

Mashomack Preserve

(79 S Ferry Rd, Shelter Island)

Choose from five flat trails amid over 2,000 acres of mature oak woodlands, freshwater marshes, floral fields, and tidal creeks. The accessible trails range from one or 1.5 miles to three, six, and 12 mile loops. The trails and visitor’s center are open every day (except Tuesdays) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but we especially recommend “Souper Sunday,” which feature a guided six-mile green trail hike to Bass Creek Cottage for homemade soup, or “Nature’s Halloween Trail,” which offers friendly costumed characters and light refreshments.

Ogdens Brook Trail

(50 South Fairview Avenue, Montauk)

Ogdens Brook Trail is a section of the 125-mile long Pamanok Path inside Montauk Point State Park that follows Montauk’s famous Oyster Pond. This easy 1.5 miles of unpaved road conveniently starts at the parking area, continuing over a stream footbridge, through the wetlands, and into a maritime forest of undisturbed beech, black tupelo, red maple, and shadbush. Cool sights along the way include a lighthouse and abandoned military bunkers. Later in the season, harbor seals can be seen on the coastal rocks down the yellow-marked “seal haul-out” trail.

Quogue Wildlife Refuge

(3 Old Country Road, Quogue)

The 300-acre Quogue Wildlife Refuge is a favorite for kids, as the Outdoor Wildlife Complex houses injured bald eagles, owls, falcons, red fox, chinchillas, bearded dragon lizards, tortoises, and other New York native species. The Charles Banks Belt Nature Center offers additional wildlife exhibits, a nature library, touch table, children’s room, gift shop, and the best views of Old Ice Pond. Seven miles of walking trails take you through diverse habitats – bogs, fields, Pine Barrens, tidal estuaries, and wetlands. The main trail is not only scenic, but stroller-friendly, too. For $10, you can make a reservation for their annual “Enchanted Forest Trail” walk, taking place at noon on October 26th or 27th, featuring games, activities, and costumed characters.

Sears Bellows County Park

(63 Bellows Pond Road, Hampton Bays)

Sears Bellows takes you through clearly marked trails of 979-acre parkland, suitable for beginners. The easiest trail is the one-mile, stroller-friendly jaunt around Bellows Pond, but there are paths to continue on along Sears Pond. A fun playground overlooking the water is a great place to park for an extended lunch break. Older kids may enjoy fishing for bass, bluegill, pickerel, or perch. 

Pro Tip: We keep an eye on the I Love NY Fall Foliage Report to determine the best timing. (As of early October, we’re at about 15% color change, with an explosion of color expected in the coming weeks.)

Love the fall season? So do we! Join our team of educators in one of our fall classes for seasonal crafting, cooking, traveling, and learning opportunities aplenty. We have something for everyone ages six months to 10 years!

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7 Hidden Gems in the Hamptons

September 12, 2019/in Fun, Guide, Learn, Party, Play/by Shine

Whether you live in the East End or you’re looking to get out of Manhattan for a day, the Hamptons provide a wealth of environmental treasures for families. These destinations evoke a sense of wonder, awe, and imagination in young and old alike. Shine play groups meet at some of these locations on a weekly basis, while others we visit for special events, parties, and workshops. With the Indian summers we’ve been having, autumn is the perfect season to get out and explore some of these hidden gems at a time when the crowds are thin.

LongHouse Reserve

Stroll this 16-acre sculpture garden to find a giant chess board designed by Yoko Ono, a beautiful pond with lotus plants and frogs on lily pads, and Buckminster Fuller’s iconic “Fly’s Eye Dome,” designed with water collection systems and solar panels as a “self-sufficient home of the future.” Kids delight in the maze-like layout, while embarking upon a scavenger hunt for the unique and captivating. All ages are welcome, but the ideal age is six and up, as they are less likely to climb on the sculptures, shout at the top of their lungs, or be tempted to play hide-and-seek.   

Visit: 133 Hands Creek Road,  East Hampton, 613-604-5330, www.longhouse.org

Bridge Gardens

Part of the Peconic Land Trust, designed to preserve Long Island’s working farms and natural lands, the five acres of Bridge Gardens offer the perfect respite from City life for birdwatching, painting, photography, and nature study in the heart of Bridgehampton. The land boasts a collection of perennial and annual beds, as well as hedgerows and herb gardens. The garden hosts many educational and family-friendly events in partnership with Shine and the local children’s museum.

Visit: 36 Mitchell Lane, Bridgehampton, 631-537-7440, www.peconiclandtrust.org

Children’s Museum of the East End

Parents and children alike will enjoy the magic of this interactive play center geared toward ages 2-7. The town-like setting takes families through a farmers’ market, a windmill, a potato chip factory, a 1950s diner, a library, a fire station, a construction site, a pirate shipwreck, and a musical forest. Active children will delight in the wooden climbing structures, soft foam areas, and slides. Keep an eye out for classes, workshops, and special performances throughout the year.

Visit: 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, 631-537-8250, www.cmee.org

Amber Waves Farm

Amber Waves was founded in 2009 to produce healthy, organic food for the local community such as wheat, popcorn, and over 300 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and cutting flowers. You’ll also see dozens of chickens running about. Guided tours, pizza-making workshops, story hours, toddler play groups, and a hands-on Farm Club program are all part of the family-oriented experience.

Visit:  367 Main Street, Amagansett, 631-267-5664, www.amberwavefarms.org

Madoo Conservancy

Madoo is an enchanting oasis – from the pruned boxwood and grove of ginkgos of the central walkway and the Chinese bridge overlooking a pond, to the blue wrought-iron gated gardens and the fairytale cottages with yellow doors. With free admission, there’s really no excuse to miss out on this local landmark and tribute to artist/gardener Robert Dash. Children’s programming includes storytelling in the gardens from 10-11 am on Monday mornings through October 7th. During the summer months, they offer an art program based on East End painters for kids ages 5-8.

Madoo is an enchanting oasis – from the pruned boxwood and grove of ginkgos of the central walkway and the Chinese bridge overlooking a pond, to the blue wrought-iron gated gardens and the fairytale cottages with yellow doors. With free admission, there’s really no excuse to miss out on this local landmark and tribute to artist/gardener Robert Dash. Children’s programming includes storytelling in the gardens from 10-11 am on Monday mornings through October 7th. During the summer months, they offer an art program based on East End painters for kids ages 5-8.

Visit: 618 Sagg Main Street, Sagaponack, 631-537-8200, www.madoo.org

Nova’s Ark

Artist Nova Mihai Popa hoped the enormous sculptures set on the 95 acres of Nova’s Ark would “reflect the spirit and knowledge all around us.” One can’t help but be impressed by the bronze-colored structures reaching over five stories high. While you’re there, stop by to see the resident grazing sheep and the majestic horses boarded at Big Sky Ranch. The Ark serves as a great introduction to unique architectural styles, with the Elliptical House (designed to have a small ecological footprint), the Castle Barn celebration center (renovated from an old dairy barn), and the Cities of the Future (cosmic brick homes that can be easily replicated in factories).

Visit: 60 Millstone Road, Water Mill, 631-537-0061, www.thearkproject.com

Wölffer Estate Winery

This vineyard is assuredly kid-friendly. Co-owner Joey Wölffer explains, “There is nothing better than having my daughters at the Wine Stand with me on Friday and Saturday nights. Kids love to run around and play together, and it’s a great place to bring the family.” Across the road from the main vineyard, music starts at 5:00 pm and runs through the end of September. Bring blankets and chairs to enjoy a sunset picnics with wines by the bottle and glass, cheese and charcuterie platters, as well as beverages and snack boxes with raisins, string cheese, and Goldfish crackers available for the kids. During the summer months, Wölffer runs a pony camp for kids. (Nearby Channing Daughters winery is another one of our kid-friendly favorites.)

Visit: 3312 Montauk Highway, Sagaponack, 631-537-5106, www.wolffer.com

Contact us to learn more about child enrichment programs and idyllic escapes in the East End.

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Fun Summer Science Experiments For Ages 4-10

July 29, 2019/in Fun, Guide, Learn, Play/by Jason Manuel

Now that summer is in full swing, we don’t have to tell you twice: this season is a hot mess! From water puddles out of the pool and dripping Popsicles, to digging in the garden and gooey marshmallows around the campfire, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy life to its filthy fullest. The kids are home from school and the days are longer, so it’s the perfect time to get outside with science projects that are both educational and fun.

Learn About Chemical Reactions with…

Ice Volcanoes

What You’ll Need: Baking soda, water, vinegar, food coloring, small bowls, golf balls, and plastic wrap.

Step by Step:

  1. Place a golf ball into the bottom of a small bowl.
  2. Place plastic wrap over the top of the ball and over the edge of the bowl.
  3. Fill the bowls with a third baking soda, two thirds water, covering the ball completely.
  4. Add food coloring.
  5. Place in the freezer to solidify.
  6. Once they’re frozen, thaw them until you can pull the plastic wrap off and pry out the golf ball with a butter knife.
  7. Add a squirt of vinegar, with a medicine dropper if you have one, to watch them explode.

Why: The volcano is a classic science experiment, but with this version, kids not only love watching the eruption, but also playing with the melting creation. It’s as fun for a 4-year-old as it is for a 10-year old.

Tips: Use skin-safe bath bomb soap dye to avoid staining little hands. You can do this activity along with reading the National Geographic book on volcanoes to make it more educational for older kids.


Learn About Super Saturation with…

DIY Rock Candy

What You’ll Need: A wood skewer, glass jar, large saucepan, clothespins, 3 cups of sugar, 1 cup of water, food coloring, and candy flavoring. (To scale up and make a variety of colors, you can use 30 cups of sugar and 10 cups of water, keeping a 3:1 ratio per jar.)

Step by Step:

  1. Combine equal parts sugar and water into a saucepan over low, heating until all sugar dissolves.
  2. Slowly add more sugar, stirring until the water looks cloudy and no more sugar will dissolve.
  3. Add candy flavoring if desired, heating to a low simmer.
  4. Remove the sugar-water from the heat and cool completely.
  5. Dip skewers into water and roll them in sugar. You may need to cut long skewers to fit the jar.
  6. Pour the cooled sugar-water into the jars, using one jar for each color of rock candy.
  7. Place a dried stick into each jar, using a horizontal clothespin to hold the stick in the middle.
  8. You should note growth after one day. Wait about a week for a sizable candy worthy of eating.
  9. Let the candies dry on a clean, cool surface before devouring.

Why: We’d be lying if we didn’t confess the best part of this experiment is eating the candy! Edible science is pretty exciting for empowered kids big and small. In this case, you’ll see how an overabundance of solute (a.k.a. the sugar) is unable to dissolve into liquid. Over time, the liquid water evaporates, leaving behind a super-saturated solution, with seed crystals forming and molecules expanding. A finished piece of rock candy has about a quadrillion molecules in it, which is pretty mind-boggling!

Tips: It is imperative that the sugar skewers have completely dried in order for the crystals to grow off it and not dissolve in the water. It is also important to make sure the sticks do not touch the bottom or sides of the jar, hence the clothespin. You can grow your rock candy longer than a week if desired.


Learn About Density and Polarity with…

A Homemade Lava Lamp

What You’ll Need: A bottle, vegetable oil, water, food coloring, and Alka-Seltzer.

Step by Step:

  1. Fill three-quarters of the bottle with vegetable oil.
  2. Fill the rest with water, which will sink to the bottom.
  3. Add a few drops of food coloring, which will also sink to the bottom.
  4. Break an Alka-seltzer tablet into a few small pieces and add them to the bottle one at a time.
  5. As the reaction slows, add more Alka-seltzer.

Why: Kids love the mesmerizing activity of lava lamps, and it’s even cooler to make one. The lava lamp works using two scientific principles – density and polarity. Density, the measure of mass over volume, is evident once you add the tightly-packed water molecules to the mix. Polarity prevents the oil and water from mixing together. two hydrogen atoms side of a water molecule is positively charged, while the oxygen end is negatively charged. Like a magnet, the positive end of a water molecule will connect with the negative end of other molecules – except that oil molecules are non-polar, lacking a positive OR negative charge. For this reason, oil and water do not mix.

Tips: If you don’t have Alka-seltzer, you can also try filling a jar with water and adding 1/3 cup vegetable oil, food coloring, and kosher salt.


If you want your children to develop a healthy interest in science early-on, but don’t necessarily want the mess at your house, you can sign up for one of Shine’s classes, workshops, summer camps, or parties. We incorporate science, art, education, and fun into an unforgettable, interactive experience your kids won’t soon forget. Contact us for details on programs we’re running in NYC and the Hamptons.

https://shinenyc.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/rock-candy.jpg 400 600 Jason Manuel https://shinenyc.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Shine-logo-300x220.png Jason Manuel2019-07-29 14:00:282024-09-26 15:59:02Fun Summer Science Experiments For Ages 4-10

5 Options To Celebrate “Make Music New York” With Kids

June 20, 2019/in Celebrate, Fun, Guide, Play/by Shine

“Children are inherently musical beings. They love to sing, dance, shake, rattle, and roll!” says Shine Music Specialist Taylor Feygin. “Adults who provide developmentally appropriate learning environments for children incorporate music as a major component of a healthy and natural daily experience.”

Now in its 18th year, summer’s Make Music New York festival provides the opportunity to introduce your child to different styles of music around the city. Billed as “inclusive, adventurous, and fun,” you’ll find the energizing spirit of celebration is something your family can look forward to each year.

What Is Make Music New York?

Make Music New York (MMNY) claims to be “New York City’s only music festival for the people and by the people.” Run twice a year by Make Music New York Inc., a nonprofit organization that celebrations the musician in everyone, music makers of all ages are invited to share their skills and passions with the community in public parks, plazas, and sidewalks in all five boroughs. This year, there are more than 1,000 to choose from!

The next MMNY takes place on Friday, June 21st — the first day of summer — from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Where To Celebrate Make Music New York With Kids

  1. Who: Dr. Alex and Friends

What: Silly songs, dance, puppets, books, sing-a-longs; after the free concert, $5 buys you art project materials.

Where: Private Picassos’ Art Studio (237 5th Avenue – Brooklyn)

When: 1-2 p.m. with activities until 6 p.m.


  • Who: Esther Crow

What: Original children’s rock songs and puppetry

Where: Smiling Hogshead Urban Farm (25-30 Skillman Ave. – Long Island City industrial business district)

When: 3:45 – 4:30 p.m.


  • Who: Ras Moshe

What: Tenor saxophone and flute; reggae / world / jazz

Where: Children’s Magical Garden (129 Stanton Street – Lower East Side)

When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.


  • Who: Blue Wave Theory (surf rock), Fiddler & the Crossroads (bluegrass), The Clubs (funk)

What: Free bands and block party, with craft and fitness activities for children and adults.

Where: Cobble Hill (car-free Court Street, between Atlantic and Bergen St. – Brooklyn)

When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.


  • Who: The Staten Island Snugs

What: A five-member, four-part harmony outfit, with lead guitar, bass, flute, keys, and drums playing originals, Beatles tunes, folk, blues, and tin pan alley. Afterward, a narrated guided shoreline walking tour takes you along NYC Parks and Conference House Conservancy.

Where: Conference House Park’s Great Lawn (Hylan Boulevard and Satterlee Street – Staten Island)

When: 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Do Your Kids Love Music?

Nearly all the classes Shine offers includes some type of music. From “Sing & Shine” (ages 0-2), to the mixed ages “Music Stars” class, to Group Music Theory (5+) and private instrument instruction (5+), we deliver a fun mix of education and imagination to a place of your choosing. Each class includes a trained Shine instructor, materials, setup, and cleanup. We also offer summer camps that foster a greater appreciation of the arts. Contact us for details.

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Mother’s Day Keepsake Crafts Kids Can Make

May 7, 2019/in Celebrate, Fun, Guide, Learn, Make/by Shine

By mid-May our “spring cleaning” kick is in full swing – just in time for the kids to create toilet paper flower bouquets, construction paper tulip cards, and paper plate purses we simply can’t throw away. Instead, consider one of these more durable keepsake crafts you can do together or have a partner orchestrate.


Tile Coasters for the Coffee or Tea Loving Mom

For this craft, you’ll need 4.25 x 4.25 white ceramic tiles from the hardware store, ultra-fine black Sharpie markers, colored pencils, felt pads, acrylic sealer, and Modge Podge. A whole classroom can complete this craft for under $10.

  • Have the kids use this template or free-style their drawings on paper with the Sharpie and colored pencils.
  • Coat the tile with Modge Podge and stick the drawing on, aligning the top corners and smoothing downward.
  • After the paper dries, add a thin layer of Modge Podge over top.
  • Once the Modge Podge dries, spray with a sealant.
  • Glue circular felt pads onto the back corners to prevent scratching your tables.

Lady Bug Garden Rocks for the Green Thumb Mom

With the last frost having passed us on April 26th, our gardens are ready for plants and decorations. If you don’t live near a natural creek, you can easily pick up rounded “river rocks” at home improvement stores, craft stores, garden centers, dollar stores, or online. You’ll also need colorful acrylic Patio Paint and Patio Paint Clear Coat to withstand the elements, paintbrushes, and a toothpick.

  • Wash and dry your rocks.
  • Add the colorful Patio Paint on the tops of the rocks. Don’t paint the bottoms if you want these with your plants.
  • Paint on a black head and allow time to dry.
  • Use the handle of the paintbrush to dot black spots onto the lady bug. Let it dry completely.
  • Use the handle of the paintbrush to make two white dots for the eyes. Let it dry completely.
  • Use the toothpick dipped in black paint to add black pupils to the eyes. Let it dry completely.
  • Paint the tops of the ladybugs with Patio Paint Clear Coat to seal. You can also use outdoor Modge Podge.

Older kids like the lady bugs. If your family’s unconventional, you could also make “glowing monster rocks,” which are fantastically spooky Halloween decorations. We also love this butterfly footprint flower pot as an easier alternative when working with babies and toddlers.


Marbled Clay Jewelry Dish for the Fashionable Mom

It’s hard to believe these clay jewelry dishes didn’t come from a store. All you’ll need is Sculpey Premo! Polymer Clay (which you can find at Michaels, Joanns, or online), a rolling pin, plastic knife, muffin pan, and a Krylon Gold Leafing Pen.

  • Break off pieces of different colors you’d like in your dish.
  • Roll a long thin piece of each color and twist them together.
  • Smoosh the clay in a ball, mixing it with your hands until you notice a marbling effect.
  • Roll the clay to ¼” thickness. If you don’t have a jar or craft rolling pin, try Sculpey’s Essential Tool Kit.
  • Cut the clay into a circle with a cookie cutter or glass bottle top – something that won’t touch food.
  • Turn a muffin pan upside-down and center the clay circle over a muffin spot.
  • Drape the clay down the sides and create a few tucks for rippled edges.
  • Bake the pan upside-down in the oven, according to the clay package directions (about 15 minutes at 275.)
  • Once your dish cools, remove it from the muffin pan and use the gold leafing pen to decorate the edges.
  • If you want a glossier finish, you can also paint the bowl with clear glaze.

Rock or Seashell Picture Frame for the Sentimental Mom

Do you have bags and bags of shells from your last trip to Florida, or “special rocks” found on your nature walks? What can you do with all of these treasures? One practical idea is to super-glue them onto a picture frame for a rustic look. You can also supplement with polished rocks from the Dollar Tree if you prefer a more uniform aesthetic. Otherwise, you’ll just need a cheap frame from the Dollar Store, paint, and super glue or hot glue.

  • Wash and dry your rocks or shells.
  • Remove the glass and backing to paint the frame. Dark gray, dark brown, or black work well.
  • Super glue or hot glue your rocks onto the frame, starting at the outside edges and working your way in.
  • After the glue has dried, add the backing and glass, along with your favorite photo or hand-drawn picture.

Thumbprint Serving Platter for the Culinary Goddess Mom

It seems one can never have enough serving platters for a special event. All you need for this craft is a rectangular white porcelain serving tray, non-toxic glass paint or dishwasher-safe multi-surface paint, a fine-tipped Sharpie, and a wet rag handy to correct wiggly finger mishaps.

  • Divide the plate based on how many family members you have – into fourths for a family of four. Place a tiny dot of paint where you want each fingerprint so the spacing is equal.
  • Place a small amount of paint on foil, wax paper, or a paint tray. Dip your child’s finger into the paint and press two prints to form a heart shape.
  • Use the damp rag to wipe off the print and start over if the shape doesn’t look quite right.
  • Write names under each fingerprint heart with the Sharpie. You can add a date and any other text you like, too.
  • To cure, let the project dry for an hour and place it in a cool oven. Once the temperature reaches 350 degrees, bake for 30 minutes. Wait 72 hours before using.

If your children love crafting, consider all that Shine has to offer families in the East End. Our enrichment programs are geared toward ages six months to 12 years. You can see some of our little ones making gifts and sharing what they love most about their moms in this video or contact us to learn more.

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Dark Chocolate Raspberry Popsicles

April 21, 2019/in Fun, Guide, Learn, Make, Taste/by Shine

Inviting kids into the kitchen can be a fun, family-friendly experience where kids explore new foods and learn about nutrition and healthy food choices. 

Start with simple recipes like these Dark Chocolate Raspberry Popsicles made with fresh fruit, coconut palm sugar, and dairy-free chocolate chips. A simple and delicious recipe the entire family can enjoy.  

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Popsicles 

Ingredients 

  • ½ can full fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup frozen raspberries 
  • ½ banana 
  • 3 tablespoons coconut palm sugar 
  • Dairy-free chocolate chips 

Instructions 

  1. Add coconut milk, raspberries, banana, and coconut palm sugar into a blender and blend on high until smooth
  2. Evenly distribute chocolate chips into the bottom of each popsicle mold 
  3. Pour raspberry mixture into each mold filling it to the top
  4. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze, 4 hours or until solid 
  5. Gently remove frozen popsicles from mold, serve and enjoy. 

By Karla Salinari for Shine

Join us on Saturday, May 11 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm for our next “Second Saturday” workshop at the Children’s Museum of the East End where we’ll be celebrating moms with our special guest Karla Salinari of FlipBox. We will be baking healthy treats for mom and creating some food-inspired art. To register or for more info, contact info@shinenyc.net or call 212.414.5427.

After the birth of her daughter, Carolina, Karla learned the importance of good nutrition. From a family of Miami-based and Puerto Rican food lovers, Karla began to “flip” recipes, replacing unhealthy ingredients with gluten-free, organic, and higher-quality ones.
Now based in Brooklyn, her weekly blog helps others do the same. One blog was so successful that Karla launched Flipbox, an organic, gluten-free, dye-free and healthier version of a cake-in-a-box. Each kit comes with an apron, mini spatula, and the dry ingredients needed to create a cake and frosting, but more importantly to spend quality time with your kids, enjoying healthy food.
Karla also runs baking parties and participates in Pop-Up events. When she’s not flipping recipes, Karla helps lead an Annual Woman’s Summit that promotes woman empowerment and networking. Karla also enjoys running, traveling with her daughter and husband, Joe, and exploring neighborhood restaurants.
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Cultural Kid-Friendly Food: Top 5 Eastern Orthodox Recipes For Easter

April 20, 2019/in Celebrate, Fun, Guide, Taste/by Shine

Eastern Orthodox churches base their Easter on the Julian calendar, which differs by the Gregorian calendar used in Western countries. Therefore, Christians who attend mass at Orthodox churches will end up celebrating “the miracle of Jesus Christ’s resurrection” on April 28thinstead of April 21stin 2019. Countries that observe Orthodox Easter include: Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Lebanon, Macedonia, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine. Whether you are part of New York City’s orthodox community or you like to educate your children about different religious and cultural observations, cooking authentic holiday feasts is a meaningful way to share all that life has to offer with your children. 


Russian Kulich with Paskha

Recipe Courtesy of the NY Times

Russian Easter coffee cake is a lightly sweetened, egg-glazed mix between challah and brioche, baked in a coffee cylinder for height. Though it’s time-consuming to make, the kulich sits prominently in the center of the family Easter basket, amid meats, cheeses, butter, and eggs. Any time after 4:00 am, the family matriarch may slice up the kulich, spreading the slices generously with unsalted butter or with creamy paskha made of vanilla bean, cream, butter, sugar, egg yolks, and large-curd pot cheese. Candied cherries and ground almonds are optional, but most kids love it. The kulich may also be served as a dessert.     

Get the recipe here.


Romanian Easter Lamb Soup

Recipe Courtesy of Patty Inglish at Delishibly.com 

Since lamb is the main course of choice, it makes practical sense to use the leftover bits into soup. The Greeks have their own version called magiritsa, but this particular Romanian version is a bit more kid-friendly because you can use leg of lamb if you don’t want to throw the whole head in. Soups are always a labor of love, taking up to two hours in the kitchen, so this recipe may work best with your little big kids who are in prime helping mode. With amaranth, kale, and dock greens, combined with garlic, scallions, parsley, and lovage, the recipe author likens this dish to “gyro meat in a soup.”    

Get the recipe here.


Greek Arni Sto Fourno

Recipe by Michael Psilakis, Courtesy of Delish 

Michael Psilakis is the Greek-American NYC restaurateur behind Ecco, Onera, Anthos, Kefi, Mia Donna, MP Taverna, and Allora Italian Kitchen and Bar. You may have seen him on “Iron Chef,” “Ultimate Recipe Showdown,” or “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” You don’t need an “animal roasting temple” in your backyard to roast a good lamb like Psilakis’ family did. You can bake a tasty leg of lamb in your oven in just a few hours with vegetables like carrots, fennel, and potatoes, along with oregano, rosemary, thyme, and sage. 

Get the recipe here.


Lebanese Maamoul Cookies

Recipe Courtesy of “Julie Taboulie”

Making maamoul is a multi-generational Easter tradition amongst Lebanese mothers, grandmothers, and granddaughters. The unique aroma of orange blossom water conjures memories of this springtime holiday like no other. After months of giving up dairy, sugar, and meat, this decadent dessert is a must for the post-Lenten feast. Maamoul is also served with chocolate and Arabic coffee during Eid. You’ll need a special mold for this melt-in-your-mouth butter cookie recipe (which you can buy online). Every family has their own secret recipe, but we liked this one from Julie Ann Sageer, a cookbook chef hailing from Marietta, New York because she gives you three different fillings – pistachio, date, and walnut.  

Get the recipe here.


Romanian Cheesecake

Recipe Courtesy of Simply Romanesco

Tired of American cheesecakes with too much cream cheese and not enough crust? “Grandma Vicki’s” Romanian version couldn’t be more perfect with the perfect balance of smooth ricotta cheese custard layered between two rows of sweet doughy crust. Cream of wheat adds a slightly dense texture to the filling. Lemon juice provides a punch of tartness, while the shower of confectioner’s sugar delivers the sweets. 

Get the recipe here.


Don’t forget to dye your Easter eggs red to symbolize the blood and sacrifice of Christ. You might enjoy a traditional Greek Easter game known as tsougrisma, which involves tapping the dyed eggs to see which ones crack.

If you like these recipes and your child enjoys cooking, CONTACT US  to inquire about our monthly workshops (which can include cooking).  

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Why Soccer is a Good Choice for Early Sports Development

April 18, 2019/in Fun, Guide/by Shine

More than 2.3 million children ages 6-12 play youth soccer in America. This does not include the growing number of 2-5 year-olds joining programs like Soccer Shots, Pee Wee Sports, Lil Kickers, and Tiny Tykes.

Choosing the right sports for your child is about more than a popularity contest, though. You likely have many questions, including: Is it physically safe? Is it good for my child’s physical, mental, and emotional state? Science tells us it’s best not to specialize in any one sport at a young age, but continue reading to see if soccer may provide the right mix of developmental skills your child needs at this time.

What Science Says About The Benefits of Soccer for Kids

  • “Green time” reduces ADHD symptoms. A study of more than 400 children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder identified a link between children who played in a “green and open” outdoor environment like a soccer field. Researchers at the University Illinois Urbana-Champaign called green time a “low-cost and side-effect-free” way of managing symptoms of hyperactivity, poor impulse control, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Aerobic activity boosts brainpower. Concordia University found that certain activities can increase brainpower in children. For toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-aged kids, breathing exercises and guided meditation had noticeable beneficial effects. In older kids, “vigorous aerobic activity, such as soccer, basketball, and jumping rope” have had a positive impact on concentration, recall, and memory.
  • Soccer provides broad-spectrum health and fitness benefits. A three-year study involving seven countries and over 50 researchers at the University of Copenhagen concluded that soccer is an excellent way to maintain a physically active and healthy lifestyle from age seven through adulthood. They compared the physiological health effects to running, but found soccer to be superior; men “worried less” playing soccer, while women benefited from the social aspect of the team sport. Participating in soccer for two or three hours per week caused “significant cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal adaptations,” no matter the player’s gender, age, or experience level. Some go so far as to say, “Soccer is medicine,” particularly in the treatment of hypertension.

Soccer Offers Unique Physical Benefits and Skills For Developing Young Athletes

Physiologically, soccer players develop a high aerobic-anaerobic threshold and endurance, as their bodies must adapt to run for long periods of time without the ball. The average soccer player runs five to seven miles over the course of a game. Soccer promotes what the Germans call “Schnellkraft” – the sort of speed elasticity and strength that enables sprinters to achieve a high level of performance.

Generally speaking, active kids build stronger bones and muscles, and they are less likely to become obese or develop Type II diabetes. Children develop strength to kick the ball hard enough to pass and score. Soccer is a fine sport for agility and motor skill development, as it involves running, kicking, jumping, twisting, turning, changing directions and manipulating objects. Through repetitive motion and activities, the feet acquire greater balance and coordination they may not otherwise achieve through daily walking.

Soccer is unique as a team sport in that its activities are largely self-directed, and not dependent on a player’s position. By comparison, football players take direction from the coach for each play. Soccer players decide for themselves and learn to trust their own intuitions — for up to 90 minutes on the field. Individuals continuously flex their visual-spatial awareness, innate problem-solving skills, and cognitive flexibility.

Unlike baseball or football, where teams take turn playing offense and defense, soccer is a dynamic game that switches between the two rapidly, more like basketball. Yet, basketball players’ activities are limited to position, with guards doing more passing, picking, and three-point shots, and forwards concentrating on rebounds, dunks, and lay-ups. Soccer requires a broad range of skills, no matter what position is played, with the exception of the goalie. As a general rule, soccer players tend to be some of the most adaptable and quick-thinking on their feet than any other team sport player. 

Soccer Provides Essential Life and Social Skills

Parents know mental and emotional health are just as important as physical health. Soccer lends itself to:

  • Endless fun, from fancy foot dribbling to knee ball-juggling tricks that improve over time.
  • Better evaluation of time and space, as the ball arrives to them or speeds toward the net.
  • The cultivation of life skills like teamwork, coordination, and playing by the rules.
  • The development of work ethic, as individuals learn to function as part of the team.
  • Management of disappointment and the building of perseverance, as teams win some, and lose some.
  • Confidence building, honing physical abilities, and cultivating self-esteem.
  • Finding social support and forming lasting, quality relationships with peers.
  • Mentorship opportunities to find adults they respect and want to emulate.

Interested in Soccer in NYC’s East End?

We’re pleased to offer soccer as part of our Hamptons summer camp geared toward ages 4-10. Shine’s summer camp features outdoor science and exploration, art and nature projects, gardening, music and movement, sports, yoga, chess, and soccer through a partnership with Super Soccer Stars. We meet Monday through Friday from 9:15 to 2:30, but we’re flexible. You can come daily or weekly. Locations include the Children’s Museum of the East End (Monday and Wednesday), the LongHouse Reserve (Tuesdays), Bridge Gardens (Thursdays), and a rotation of other iconic East End locations like the South Fork Natural History Museum on Fridays. Email info@shinenyc.net for details.

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