Ways To Celebrate Dia de los Muertos

Ways To Celebrate Dia de los Muertos

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Dia de los Muertos is a holiday celebrating the rebirth of life in death, observed throughout Latin American communities on November 1st and 2nd. Most commonly, celebrations are associated with Mexico, but there are lively celebrations in US cities like Albuquerque, NM; San Diego, CA; San Antonio, TX; Tucson, AZ; and even locally, on Staten Island.

The History of Dia de los Muertos

Dia de los Muertos dates back thousands of years to ancient Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs, Mayans, and Toltecs. These civilizations believed that a person traveled to Chicunamictlán (the Land of the Dead) after departing from Earth. Souls must pass nine challenges here, over the course of several years, to reach Mictlán (the final resting place).

Ancient Nahua rituals, originally held for the month of August, provided food, water, and tools to help the souls make this arduous journey. Later, the celebration was moved by Christians to correspond with All Saints and All Souls Days on November 1st and 2nd. The souls of children are believed to return on the 1st and the adults on the 2nd.

Modern families commemorate this holiday with culinary traditions and the creation of altars in their homes. In some communities, it is customary to clean gravestones, decorate the plots with flowers, and hold candlelit vigils in honor of their loved ones.

We love the idea of celebrating Dia de los Muertos because it uniquely recognizes the cyclical nature of life, reinforces family customs, and honors departed relatives. It’s also a fun way to reinforce cultural sensitivity. Here are a few ways to partake in this annual tradition.          

Bake Bread of the Dead

Recipes vary, but this version of Pan de Muerto (from a renowned bakery in Mexico City) calls for unbleached flour, sea salt, sugar, crumbled cake yeast, dry yeast, water, over a dozen lightly beaten eggs, unsalted butter, orange rind, and orange flower. Put on the Mariachi music and enjoy the delicious aroma of yeasty bread that fills the air. It only takes 20 minutes to bake, but you’ll need to get your starter ready the day before to allow adequate time for rising.  At the end of your rising period, you’ll be fashioning the dough into a skull and crossbones. We also recommend making Mexican Hot Chocolate in the crockpot to go with your bread!

Decorate Your Home with Ofrenda

Ofrenda means “offering.” On November 1st, older members of the community set up altars to commemorate and attract loved ones who have passed away. A fine white tablecloth is laid out on a small wooden table. Decorative tissue paper is placed over the cloth. Images of saints and a crucifix are generally placed on an elevated altar in the center of the table.

The ofrenda includes:

  • Velas – candles (one for each departed soul) light the way back home
  • Copal – incense elevates the family’s prayers to God
  • Flor de Muerto – marigold “flowers of the dead” also helps attract souls to the altar
  • Calavera – skulls made of granulated sugar, meringue powder, and water
  • Papel picado — perforated papercrafts to denote life’s fragility and invite souls to pass
  • Pan de Muerto – “bread of the dead” feeds the hungry souls that come
  • Sal – salt in the shape of a cross purifies the souls and protects them from corruption
  • Agua – also a purifier, water can quench the thirst of returning souls
  • Fotografias – photographs ensure that your loved ones can cross over

Personal items are also typically added. These belongings may include favorite articles of clothing like hats or shawls, beloved toys/games/stuffies for the kids, vices like coffee/cigarettes /liquors honoring a person’s taste, and favorite foods (mole, tamales, fruit, arroz rojo, hot chocolate, and dried fruits, for instance).

Make Sugar Skull Crafts

Sugar skulls are one of the most famous icons known to Dia de los Muertos, representing the sweetness of life. You can buy the molds and make the sugary treats yourself – or perhaps you’d enjoy one of these handicraft versions instead:

Another easy and popular craft is the Dia de los Muertos garland – comprised of pretty patterned papers, string, clothespins, scissors, and markers.

Watch “Coco” for Family Movie Night

“Coco” is a Golden Globe and Academy Award-winning Disney/Pixar animated film, geared toward ages 7+, but suitable for all ages. What 12-year-old Miguel wants most is to play Mariachi music, but his family believes that music has cursed them. This vibrant, beautiful coming-of-age drama is a tribute to kin and culture, as viewers journey to the underworld to uncover Miguel’s family secrets. Blessed with a wonderful soundtrack and packed with references to Dia de los Muertos traditions, the film is as enjoyable as it is educational.

Alt Picks: If you’ve seen “Coco” hundreds of times already, you might want to try: Let’s Go Luna’s “Day of the Dead” episode on PBS; Film School Shorts’ “Dia de los Muertos” on PBS; Scooby Doo and the Monster of Mexico on Amazon Prime; The Book of Life on Hulu; or Super Monster’s Dia los Monsters on Netflix. Once the kids go to bed, check out the James Bond movie Spectre (also on Hulu) — which inspired the first Dia de los Muertos parade in 2016.

Take a Culture Class

If you live in the NYC region, Shine offers Listillos, a Spanish immersion class combining storytelling, games, art, theater, music, cooking, crafts, Spanish language lessons, and field trips. These fun, engaging classes appeal to students learning Spanish as a second language, as well as native natural speakers who want to participate in cultural activities. The bilingual class is taught by a native Spanish speaker and is open to children of all language levels. Contact us to inquire about availability.

6 Ways to Reconnect after a Bad Homeschool Day

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For years, many of us have been sheltered from our kids’ worst days and academic frustrations. Now it’s front and center in our lives, draining us when we feel our buckets of sanity have long ran dry. Social media posts attempt to lighten the mood – with some new homeschool teachers remarking that 2020 was when they “learned how much liquor it takes to be a parent,” or admitting they never imagined “teaching elementary school math” would be the hardest part of battling a global pandemic. Other parents counted barefoot trampoline jumping as a great day of school, LEGOS as an acceptable extracurricular activity, and children hiding from their responsibilities behind locked bedroom doors as a win.

We don’t have to tell you that juggling homeschooling on top of every other household responsibility can feel like the dam’s levy blowing out. Yet, beneath your frustration, there is a beauty to sharing this fleeting time with your children. There is an opportunity to connect with your children as they learn and grow, to be the fly on the wall of their classroom experience, and to demonstrate how to exude grace under pressure even when it feels impossible.

If you’re having trouble seeing the silver lining and your day’s gone off the rails, consider a few of these ways to reconnect and ensure the day isn’t a total loss.

Give the gift of patience and surrender to the chaos. The day might be slower, messier, or less productive than you imagined, but it’s your child’s day, too. Patience can be the most meaningful gift you give. If you catch yourself dictating, slow yourself and trust your child’s burgeoning autonomy. Far too often, we jump in to solve problems, robbing our children of their ability to make mistakes, learn, and grow. As their confidence swells, so will the effectiveness of your days. Be fully present – making eye contact, truly listening, and asking questions about how your child would like to structure the day. Having a written schedule and sticker reward system can help your child see what to expect for the day and feel accomplished – but be sure to provide wiggle room for your child to choose the order.

Take a field trip. A change of scenery can be a real game-changer. Simply getting outside and into nature, no matter the weather, refreshes the mind and body. Study the changing leaves, count the acorns you find, try to guess which type of bird is singing. Walking leisurely, side by side, allows space for meaningful conversation. You can try asking an open-ended question and listening quietly to your child’s response, rather than lecturing or overriding their views. If possible, you may opt to visit the zoo, a local museum, or an apple-picking farm for your change of scenery.

Throw in the towel and make it a life skills day. Some days feel like trying to fit a square peg through a round hole. There are seven days in a homeschool week and enough flexibility built in that you can take extra time to catch up on the lessons when emotions aren’t running so high. Instead, take that anxious energy and apply it to scrubbing the floors, washing the car, tackling the laundry, sweeping out the garage, grooming the dog, organizing clothes for donation, and decluttering the toys. Save that batch of homemade cookies whipped up together as the sweet reward for a busy day of contributing to the household.

Reward perseverance with a moment of bliss. “If we can just get through this one task,” you might begin – and finish off by suggesting a feel-good activity you know your child will enjoy. For some kids, it could be an ice cream sundae or a movie night with popcorn. For others, it might be a warm bath or a tea party. Your family might enjoy playing a board game to unwind, building LEGOS and puzzles, or painting and crafting. It could be as simple as a piggyback ride, a wrestling match, a scavenger hunt, or a family dance party. In your downtime, make a list of high-value rewards to fall back upon for those difficult days.    

Make time for one-on-one. One-on-one time doesn’t have to expend a lot of creativity or energy. When your child grows up, it will be the simple moments they remember with great fondness. Devote extra minutes for bedtime snuggling. Tell stories about your childhood or recall your favorite family memories while flipping through a photo album. Read your child’s favorite book. Imagine a homespun story, alternating every other line with your child or asking questions in a “choose your own adventure” style to encourage active participation.  

Apologize and teach humility. Recognizing and owning your mistakes is a more powerful lesson than perfection. We are all lifelong learners. Letting your child see this fallible self can reassure your child about his or her own vulnerabilities and shows there is a path to redemption after a setback. Apologize gently and ask your child for advice on what you could have done differently in that moment. You may be surprised by a child’s capacity for wisdom!

A homeschool implosion doesn’t have to damage your relationship. As one four-year-old put it: “You can just take that part of your day and garbage it.” Staying connected with your child throughout their formative years and through adolescence requires the patience of the saint, commitment, and an open mind, but it is well worth the effort. One day, you’ll find your child is not just your progeny – but a true friend who reflects back all the kindness you’ve poured in over the years.

The Importance of Working with Natural Art Materials

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The sight of auburn leaves against a crisp blue sky and smells of autumn are enough to make any New Yorker want to craft with nature’s finest art materials. Inside your home, you may be stocked up on glitter, pipe cleaners, and pompoms – only to find your children enjoy building rock piles, picking flowers, and collecting acorns just as well. At Shine, nature-inspired, naturally-sourced art materials are among our favorite camp projects. Continue reading to learn how to invite more natural beauty into your lives and get inspired by fall art ideas.

Why We Love Crafting with Nature

  • Materials are readily available. You don’t have to drive to the store to start an art project. You need only go into the backyard or to a local forage-friendly park to find nearly everything you need. Kids often become inspired on a whim, so the availability of natural art materials is an obvious bonus.
  • Art materials are free of charge. Mother Nature gives to us freely. It’s all too easy to spend more than $100 in a craft store. The materials you use may not last forever, but snapping a photo for posterity is all it takes to have those memories last a lifetime.
  • Natural art materials are ecofriendly. Glue and paint contain a lot of nasty chemicals. Most glitter and tape are nonbiodegradable. The production of art materials leads to greater CO2 emissions, global warming, and transportation-related pollution. All of this can be avoided with the use of nature’s art materials. By having your kids create using nature’s finest offerings, you are raising a next-generation conservationist.
  • The supplies are versatile. While it can be nice to experiment with an all-in-one craft kit, there are limitations to the projects you can ultimately make. On the other hand, there is an endless range of crafts that can be made using items like acorns, feathers, flowers, leaves, mud, nuts, pinecones, rocks, sand, shells, sticks, and twigs.
  • Nature evokes creativity. Henry David Thoreau once said, “It is the marriage of the soul with nature that makes the intellect fruitful, and gives birth to imagination.” The mind blossoms when it has to seek out something round for eyes, rather than relying on a generic set of store-bought Googly-eyes. It takes creative problem-solving to get the leaf to stick onto a rock without glue.
  • It’s a healthier way to create. Sourcing from nature forces us outdoors. We could all use a bit of sunlight and fresh air this time of year. Grab a sweater and your favorite basket to start collecting a bin of materials you can use today or during the winter.

Natural Alternatives To Common Craft Materials

Consider replacing some of your most commonly-used craft supplies with natural ingredients:

  • Paper – Leaves, bark, rocks, sidewalk
  • Popsicle Sticks – Sticks from trees
  • Pipe Cleaners – Flexible plant stems
  • Beads – Shells or acorns
  • Paint – Clay, berries, vegetable dye, or crushed flowers mixed with water
  • Ribbons – Long grass or plant leaves
  • Googly Eyes – Spotty leaves and a hole puncher
  • Buttons – Branch slices with two holes drilled
  • Glitter – Red bottlebrush flower, Lilly Pilly flowers, mica

Easy, Nature-Inspired Fall Crafts To Try Today

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy these leaf-based arts and crafts:

  • Leaf Butterflies: Use a stick as the body and leaves as the wings, with marker detailing.
  • Leaf Stained Glass: Draw on contact paper, stick leaves overtop, and press to window.
  • Leaf Zoo: Different shape leaves can be made into a whimsical elephant, fox, or parrot.
  • Leaf Fox Faces: Leaves lend themselves to make the perfect fox ornament or magnet.
  • Leaf Prints: Use nature’s stamper; dip leaves into paint and press onto a surface.
  • Leaf People: Rocks, twigs, flowers, leaves, acorns, and whatever you find come to life.
  • Leaf Garland: Dip leaves in wax and string across a doorway for festive décor.
  • Mason Jar Leaf Lanterns: A flameless tea candle and leaf jar is the perfect nightlight.
  • Leaf Crown: Fasten leaves into crowns with staples, floral wire and tape, or string/hole.
  • Pinecone Leaf Turkey: Gear up for Thanksgiving with this great place-setting craft.

If necessary, you can preserve leaves using glycerin or wax paper for better longevity.

Check out our Pinterest board for more fall craft ideas, from Bark Owls to Pumpkin Seed Trees. If you live in the NYC/East End, you can also contact Shine to enroll in one of our classes, workshops, or parties, where you’ll find all the materials and instructions needed to make beautiful natural crafts.

How To Raise A Culturally Sensitive Child

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It’s never too early to begin the conversation about race with our children. Yet, research published last year reveals most people are avoiding the topic. Only 10 percent of parents discuss race “often” with their children. Black parents (22%) are more likely than whites (6%) to talk about race with their children. Fifty-seven percent of parents “rarely” or “never” talk about gender with their kids and nearly 35 percent of parents “never” talk to their kids about social class. Less than a third of parents of 3-5 year-olds discuss race and ethnicity “sometimes” or “often.”

Parents may shy away from directly addressing skin color and other physical traits in hopes of raising a “colorblind” child, but researchers and educators have found that, in the absence of strong leadership, children fill in the gaps with their own rudimentary prejudices. Children are not inherently “racist,” but they do notice differences, form natural biases, and even judge people based on perceived differences.

The year 2020 will not only go down in history for its pandemic, but for the awakening of society to the Black Lives Matter movement and the cries for equality and justice. Parents can do their part in creating a more culturally sensitive society by teaching young babies and children how to be kind, compassionate, and fair to peers from all races, cultures, and religions. Here we share a few startling facts about racial identity observed in young children and offer suggestions for tackling the issue with the under-six crowd.

It’s Never Too Early To Start The Conversation About Race

School-age may seem like a natural time to talk about diversity, but studies show Kindergarten is much too late to start the conversation. Babies are already watching and forming their own preferences:

  • “At birth, babies look equally at faces of all races. By three months, babies look more at faces that match the race of their caregivers” (Kelly et al, 2005).
  • “Children as young as two use race to reason about people’s behaviors” (Hirschfeld, 2008).
  • “By 2.5 years, most children use race to choose playmates” (Katz & Kofkin, 1997).
  • “Expressions of racial prejudice often peak at ages 4 and 5” (Aboud, 2008).
  • “At five years, Black and Latinx children show no preference toward their own groups, as compared to White children at this age who are more likely to be strongly biased in favor of whiteness” (Dunham et al, 2008).
  • “By Kindergarten, children show many of the same racial attitudes held by adults in our culture. They have already learned to associate some groups with higher status than others” (Kinzler, 2016).
  • “Explicit conversations with 5-7 year-olds about interracial friendship can dramatically improve their racial attitudes in as little as a single week” (Bronson & Merryman, 2009).

Bright little minds are always trying to assign rules for what they see around them. They’re looking for patterns – who lives in the homes they see, who is the hero of the movie, what clothes and cars do people have, how are parents and children interacting at the playground, and who seems to have particular jobs or roles at the supermarkets, grocery stores, banks, schools, and other locations they visit frequently. Children often infer that the differences they see are natural, justified, and based on meaningful inherent differences between the groups they see operating in society. The silence of adult bystanders inadvertently allows myths and biases to persist, therefore reinforcing patterns of systemic racism.

What You Can Do To Raise A Culturally Sensitive Child

Make space for your child’s respectful curiosity. 

Parents can encourage a child’s natural curiosity and questioning, but reframe the narrative in a direct-but-compassionate manner. For instance, if a child asks about skin color, explain that skin comes in many different colors, but it still works the same way to protect our bodies. By the same token, though we may look different on the outside, we have many of the same hopes, dreams, and feelings on the inside. “The Skin You Live In” is a great children’s picture book exploring this subject. Some parents have compared the concept to ice cream to help little ones understand; ice cream comes in many different flavors — vanilla, chocolate, or butterscotch – but they’re all good in their own ways. If you’re not sure how to respond to common questions kids have, see what neuropsychologists, educators, and parenting coaches have to say.

Start with Sesame Street.

Since the beginning, Sesame Street has been intentional about including diverse voices in its cast of human and muppet characters. From children in wheelchairs, with same-sex parents, or Afghani citizenship, to muppets with autism, HIV, or parents in jail, a wide range of perspectives and topics can be presented in ways that are inclusive and easy for kids to understand. Big Bird alone can’t do all the teaching – parents still need to help children make that leap from fantasy to reality – but multicultural programming is a positive reinforcement for the honest, direct conversations that need to happen amongst family members. 

Build an #OwnVoices library.

The #OwnVoices book list is a useful shorthand for books featuring diverse characters written by people who share those identities. As a collective, these books open the door to marginalized groups and invite more voices to share their stories. Reading Partners offers a list of children’s picture books from #OwnVoices, including a book by former president Barack Obama! EmbraceRace.org offers another well-curated list of books featuring diversity.

Choose diverse toys.

Children learn through play. Providing a variety of toys for a child to play with might mean giving girls Hot Wheels cars and STEM toys, or dolls and play kitchen foods for boys. It could be stocking that play kitchen with foods from around the world. It could mean buying a pack of crayons that accounts for every different skin tone and hair color. The Every Mom published a list of 20 diverse toys that make great gifts.

Foster healthy esteem.

“Happy, well-adjusted kids tend not to be bigots,” as KidsPeace Director of Psychology Peter Langman, Ph.D. put it. “Kids who feel like they aren’t valued tend to look for targets—someone they deem ‘different’—to release their own anger and frustration.” Building esteem is especially important for kids who feel singled out for some reason. Use positive reframing – as in “your hair isn’t frizzy; it’s just happy!” or “your nose isn’t too big – you are still growing.” Teach your child it’s important to stand up against bullies – that it’s sometimes necessary to say, “I don’t like your name-calling and I want you to stop.” Praising a child for effort, giving out routine chores, encouraging new hobbies, and spending quality time together are all ways to foster a child’s budding competence, identity, and esteem.    

Celebrate multicultural holidays.

One of the easiest and most fun ways to engage with people from other cultures is to share in different holiday celebrations. During these periods, school-age children in particular will notice that children may or may not share their same holidays. Parents can use these times to teach about where a particular holiday originated, why people celebrate it, and what traditions make it special. Celebrations might include African American holidays like Kwanzaa and Juneteenth, Hindu holidays like Diwali and Sankranti, Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas, Jewish holidays like Hanukkah and Rosh Hashana, Muslims holidays like Eid and Ramadan, or Mexican holidays like Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo. Read a book, watch a movie, make a craft, cook a recipe, visit a museum, attend a local festival – there are many ways to participate.    

Get involved in the community.

Since the flawed suburbanization and urban renewal projects of the 1970s, many families inadvertently find themselves stranded in neighborhoods lacking diversity. American Poet Maya Angelou once said, “When you know better, do better.” Parents are the best role models of tolerance and acceptance – not just in speech, but in action. Seeking out friendships and social networks with families of different races should be prioritized – whether it’s through team sports, performing arts, hobbies, clubs, music classes, toddler play groups, community service projects, or church groups. If you live in the New York City region, Shine offers creative multicultural programming combining art, science, music, storytelling, and play that is welcoming to families from all walks of life. By sharing common interests, children become comfortable playing and working with people from cultural backgrounds that may be different from their own.

Best Places to Shake Off Your COVID-19 Blues on Long Island’s East End

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As we prepare to enter the fifth month of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s only natural to worry about the mental and emotional toll the isolation is taking on your child and family. You may yearn for normalcy, but worry about the risks of returning to family fun as usual. Many of the places you used to take the kids are still closed and highly anticipated summer events have been cancelled.

What’s a parent to do?

It’s important that we shine our inner lights, so our children remember this summer as a time of growth and enrichment, not stagnation. The places we love may be operating a little differently, but in some ways, timing your visit during this low-traffic time makes it better.

To help, we’ve curated a list of idyllic places to spend a safe, enjoyable summer afternoon on Long Island’s East End. Also, we offer the latest scoop on day camps that are running with expanded safety protocols, offering a fun, educational environment that isn’t so dependent on parental supervision.

LongHouse Reserve

LongHouse Reserve is a 16-acre sculpture garden dedicated to reflecting world cultures and inspiring creativity. Here you’ll find a maze-like environment of giant chess boards, lotus plant ponds, and futuristic solar panel art installations. Two hours should be a good amount of time to take in the surrounding beauty and 60+ works of art.

The garden re-opened to the public on June 17th — but due to COVID-19, visits are by timed ticket reservations ONLY. Day trips are $15 and Twilight Tours $30, but be sure to plan a week or two in advance, as tickets are selling out.  

Everyone is required to wear a mask, except children under two – who must be kept in strollers. Restrooms and water fountains are closed, benches are roped off, INstore is closed, and six-foot social distancing with other groups is advised.  

Bridge Gardens

The five acres of Bridge Gardens provides a welcome respite for birdwatching, painting, photography, and nature study in the heart of Bridgehampton. The mix of community gardens, demonstration plots, and ivy mazes makes it the perfect oasis for picnicking.

Bridge Gardens is open daily from 10-4 with free admission. Out of an abundance of caution, the Peconic Land Trust has switched their tour programming to virtual Zoom meetings instead.

Madoo Conservancy

Established by artist, writer, and gardener Robert Dash, Madoo Conservancy in Sagaponack is a registered historic site replete with fairytale cottages, Chinese ponds, unique artwork, and enchanting gardens.

Madoo Conservancy opened for the season on June 22nd. If you wish to visit the Madoo Conservancy, visits for groups of 10 or less are now by APPOINTMENT ONLY. The garden is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 12-4pm through October 10th, 2020.

All guests are required to wear face masks, which can also be found on-site if you do not have one. Guests are asked to wash their hands upon entering and using hand sanitizer upon leaving.  Strollers are not permitted and there are no public restrooms at this time.

The $10 admission fee is waived, thanks to a generous grant from the Barry Friedberg and Charlotte Moss Family Foundation.

Amber Waves Farm

Amber Waves Farm in Amagansett has received praise for their safety-first approach to produce cultivation during the COVID-19 crisis. Normally, this time of year, there are pizza-making workshops, farm tours, and story hours for kids – but specialty programming has been placed on hold in light of recent events. Even so, Full Moon Suppers are on the calendar starting in August, and you can always stop by for a box of produce and a bite to eat.

The Café opened for the 2020 season on June 13th with breakfast and lunch orders available to-go or to enjoy at their socially-distant picnic tables from 8am to 4pm. Guests are asked to wear masks any time they are on the property, except for when dining. You can also shop the market and order a produce box for next-day curbside pickup online. The staff is required to wear gloves and face coverings while working at the market.

Looking for a safe enrichment environment for your children?

Summer camp for ages 4-11 is a little different this year, with pods very limited in size to keep everybody safe. We have three full days of programming (9:00 am to 2:30 pm), with a few spots left.

Monday outdoor sessions at LongHouse Reserve will meet in two groups of 10, with no other camps on-site. Wednesday and Friday sessions at the Children’s Museum of the East End from July 20th through September 4th offers an exclusive opportunity to visit the museum while it is closed to the public.

Beyond the size limitations, Shine educators are strictly adhering to ALL State of New York and CDC protocols. Parents are to stay in the car during pickups and drop-offs. We will ask you a few questions, such as whether anyone in your household has experienced COVID-like symptoms in the past 14 days, tested positive, or come into contact with someone who has confirmed or suspected coronavirus. Campers will have their temperatures taken and wash their hands thoroughly before the day begins. Teachers and counselors will be wearing masks when interacting with children, remaining at a distance whenever possible, and sanitizing surfaces and materials frequently.  

Children will receive the same high-quality Shine programming we’ve curated for the past six years. Carolina Fuentes and Drumanawé will be stopping by with their unique combination of music and movement. Mondays feature Chris Sahr’s fine arts groups and a coach from Super Soccer Stars. Wednesday Workshops bring in local farmers and artisans. Fridays include art with Chris Sahr and fun interactive STEM activities with Snapology.

Shine will be taking summer excursions to all of the places mentioned here. Check out some of the places we’ve been with the kids so far, from strawberry fields to beaches on our Instagram. We’re also working on adding private museum access and guided walks at SoFo in the coming weeks as well. Contact us to inquire about availability and the latest partnerships.

How To Prevent Video Game Addiction

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Last year, the World Health Organization issued guidance that infants under one year old should not be exposed to electronic screens, and that children between the ages of 2-4 should not have more than one hour of “sedentary screen time” each day. School-aged children should have limitations on the type of device, activity, and amount of time spent on screens each day, with parents ensuring the kids have adequate face time, physical activity, and shut-eye. 

Along with coronavirus came a loosening of restrictions, as parents struggled to find balance and a sense of normalcy. The increased amount of leisure time during the summer time already leads to bad screen time habits, whether there’s an iPhone, tablet, or video game console in the home. What is a parent to do? We all want to be fair and yet also maintain a sense of order in the home. We want our children to be happy, but we are also tasked with keeping them safe.

ARE Video Games Dangerous for the Developing Brain?

Research has been conflicting and we’ve got a long way to go in understanding this evolving field of study.  

  • The Good: Studies have shown video games can change the structure of the brain and how the brain performs – but the impact is not necessarily negative. Gamers showed improvements in sustained and selective attention, so it became easier to activate and sustain attention on demanding tasks. The size and efficiency of the hippocampus increases, leading to improvements in visuospatial skills and memory. 3D video games, in particular, have been associated with improving memory performance and spatial processing; researchers identified protective benefits against Alzheimer’s, dementia, and depression in adults. An “optimist” might also argue that gaming can help children suffering from isolation by connecting them with their peers through online collaborative play modes, help teach them the value of “trying again” to work toward a desired outcome, and flex their muscles in everything from analytical reasoning and complex problem solving to fine motor dexterity and emotional regulation. Some datasuggests video games can improve fluid intelligence – the capacity to learn new information and problem-solve in novel situations.

 

  • The Bad and The Ugly: The caveat is that video gaming can also lead to structural changes in the brain’s neural reward system, causing cravings similar to other types of addiction. One studyfound that playing video games released an amount of feel-good neurotransmitter dopamine comparable to what intravenous injections of amphetamine do to a person; after the “rush,” the gamer is left with a temporarily diminished supply of dopamine that takes time to build back up – which explains why you may have noticed a host of negative side effects from gaming. These ills may include: obsessive behavior, lack of sleep, lack of physical exercise, headaches, hygiene neglect, neglecting school work, lack of interest in hobbies, escaping problems, irritability, anger, or dishonesty. The “pessimist” may worry that long-term reliance on video games provides stimulating rewards without truly working to achieve or really accomplishing anything meaningful. The fear is that we will produce a generation of self-absorbed, lazy, aggressive, emotionally stunted individuals who are desensitized through repetitive motion play.

What Are The Signs of Video Game ‘Addiction’?

People with diagnosable “video game addiction” have five or more of the following symptoms:

  • Thinking about gaming most or all of the time.
  • Feeling drained and emotional whenever not playing the game.
  • Needing to spend increasing amounts of time playing to feel good.
  • Being unable to quit or reduce time on the console.
  • Not wanting to do any other activities that used to be enjoyable.
  • Having problems at work, school, or home due to gaming.
  • Continuing to play video games, even though it becomes a source of conflict.
  • Lying to people about how much time is spent playing.
  • Relying upon the game to ease negative moods and feelings.

Fortunately, less than 10% of people – adults and children alike – fit the criteria for a true video game addiction. Most borderline “addicts” can be rescued with mild interventions and won’t require counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or medication for treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms and feel troubled by it, don’t be afraid to speak to your child’s pediatrician for tailored advice.

What Can You Do To Coexist With Screens and Prevent Video Game Addiction? 

  • Monitor activity and choose your time wisely. Know what games your child is playing. Use parental tools to regulate time, activity, spending, age level, game type, and features. We know that the glow of the screen can have a negative impact on sleep, so the cut-off for gaming should be dinner time. Keeping your mornings “screen-free” is another way to get the day off to a good start. Your kids may have so much fun doing other activities that they forget to even ask whether they can play video games. Have a timer, set it, and stick to it. Don’t get into the habit of allowing “just five more minutes” or “just one more level.” A reasonable amount of time would be an hour on school days and a two to three hour max on weekend days.

 

  • Help regulate big emotions. Limit gaming when school grades suffer, when physical activity dwindles, when aggression with siblings ramps up, when attitudes flare. Emotional outbursts about adhering to the rules are almost inevitable at certain ages, but they should have fair and consistent consequences – like a day off playing video games tomorrow, or perhaps a week off if the child’s behavior is repetitive or particularly heated. Explain that it’s okay to feel frustrated, disappointed, or even angry, but it’s not okay to throw the controller, slam doors, whine and cry, or shout at mom and dad.

 

  • Make a checklist. A number of parents have found success by creating a checklist of what must be done as a precondition to screen time. “Have you… made your bed? Brushed your teeth? Got dressed? Eaten your breakfast? Read a book? Created something? Exercised?” one such daily routine reads. Make some activities a daily expectation, but work in some flexibility in what they choose to do as well. For instance, you might say your child can choose three of the following: help someone in the family, build something, clean up one room of the house, play outside for 30 minutes, read for 20 minutes, practice an instrument for 20 minutes, or spend 30 minutes coloring or creating artwork. Check out this Pinterest Board for inspiration.

 

  • Provide ideas. Video games can be so stimulating, a child can’t imagine what could possibly be more important or more fun. It helps to have a list prepared before the “I’m Bored” sets in. For example, you could create a list of ideas on what to do in order to:
  • “Take Care of Yourself”: Eat breakfast, brush your teeth/hair, get dressed, tidy room.
  • “Take Care of the House”: Dishes, counters, vacuum, laundry, feed pet, pick up toys.
  • “Build Your Spirit”: Meditation, religious text study, yoga, gratitude journal, set goals.
  • “Build Your Body”: Go Noodle, swim, ride bike, sport, obstacle course, play tag, dance.
  • “Build Your Brain”: Read, write a story, draw a picture, make a song, play instrument.
  • “Build Up Someone Else”: Help a family member, Compliment a sibling, call a friend.

 

  • Introduce alternative activities that feed the brain. If your child loves Super Mario, have him draw a sample course on paper instead of playing Super Mario Maker. If your child likes Pac-Man, have her complete an activity book of mazes instead. Instead of playing the FIFA video game, sign your child up in a beginner soccer league. Rather than play Animal Crossing, spend a day at the beach shelling and plan a picnic. Try a subscription like Kiwi Co or Little Passports that combines building/crafting and learning. Family board game nights can be a fun pastime to start.

 

  • Get into the group. Gaming is a solitary activity. Sign your child up for a camp or social activity instead. The YMCA, community arts centers, recreational sports leagues, and libraries may have low-cost options. Here at Shine, we combine music, art, theatre, literacy, cooking, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure into our camps, classes, and workshops, so your child is bound to find an enjoyable activity that rivals the best of video games.

The Bottom Line

Get engaged and see what sort of screen time interests your child. All screen time – and all video games – are not created equal. You just may find playing a game together can be a healthy bonding activity. Common Sense Media recommends family games like Active Life Outdoor Challenge, Carnival Island, Kinect Sports, Overcooked, Just Dance, and Mario Kart 8 – to name a few.

Experts say you can let go of guilt and relax if your child is getting homework done, spending time with family and friends, staying physically active, and engaging in an extracurricular activity or hobby. Screens can be incorporated as part of a well-rounded childhood, with moderation.

Your approach will likely end up very similar to how state governors are trying to deal with the pandemic these days – you’ll keeping a pulse on your child’s overall health, gradually loosen restrictions when all is going well, and dial back for a spell when emotions get out of hand. As you’ve heard countless times, you’ll “be dealing with this for some time,” so figuring out how to strike a reasonable balance is likely to be more successful than coming down with the hammer to prohibit all screens.    

5 Summer Recipes for Kids (And a Few Bonuses!)

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No matter what phase of reopening we’re in, the summer weather invites New Yorkers outdoors to family picnics and backyard barbecues, if not the grand cookouts and larger parties of years past. When school is out of session and you’ve put your foot down about screen time, it doesn’t take long for “I’m bored!” to come out of your child’s mouth. Turning a dull, typical meal into a picnic, barbecue, or garden tea party is an easy way to lighten the mood and add a bit of fun to your day. The following recipes are not only kid-approved and presentable enough for party fare, but they’re so easy to assemble your “big” will love helping make them too. If “food is love,” then preparing it is family bonding at its finest.  

1. Amazing App: Chorizo Bites

This appetizer will blow minds at the next party with its perfect fiesta in every bite. Imagine this: the crispiness of an oven-roasted tortilla shell, combined with the creaminess of refried beans, the savoriness of cheese, the tang of chorizo, the freshness of tomato and cilantro, and the coolness of sour cream. Pack a punch of jalapeno for the adult half of the tray for extra flavor. You’ll need a 3-inch round cookie or biscuit cutter and a standard 24-cup muffin tray. It’s a labor of love putting this together, but kids as young as four make the perfect assistant chefs.

Get the recipe. 

2. Mindblowing Main: Sweet & Sour Pork and Pineapple Kebabs

Most kebabs recommend spicy barbecue sauce that isn’t friendly for every kid’s palate. Simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a kid-friendly kebab that combines piquant soy, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and soy flavors with decidedly sweet sugar, ketchup, and pineapple. Add sweet peppers for added antioxidant power. Baby bella mushrooms are an excellent choice too. Look for wooden skewers with rounded tips for easy serving.

Get the recipe.

3. Scrumptious Side: Zucchini Picnic Muffins

Adults love casseroles and summer salads, but kids don’t have the patience to sit down with a fork and a knife. Grab-and-go finger foods work best – the stealthier-healthier the better! Zucchini picnic muffins offer a full meal in one bite with zucchini, rice, cheese, onion, bacon, and egg.

Get the recipe.

Looking for even quicker, easier suggestions? Grill halved ears of corn and “campfire potatoes” (aluminum foil packets of mini spuds with salt and butter) for easy sides kids will actually eat.

4. Super Snack Food: Homemade Soft Pretzels

Kids can’t resist those giant soft pretzels at Renaissance Festivals and German Oktoberfests. It’s surprisingly easy to make your own. Aside from rapid rising yeast, you likely have all the ingredients in your pantry already. Children will be hard-pressed to choose a favorite step: Is it squishing the dough in a plastic bag? Rolling out “snakes”? Forming cute heart shapes? Or painting on the salt? This recipe makes a dozen, so there’s plenty to share.

Get the recipe here.

5. Delightful Dessert: S’mores Crispy Bars

We’ve all had the classic Rice Krispy Treat, but nothing shouts “summer” more than s’mores. Adding marshmallow crème frosting, crushed graham crackers, and chocolate makes this treat even more scrumptious for the season. All it’s missing is the backyard tent, the lantern, and the spooky ghost stories!

Get the recipe here.

Bonus #1: Kid-Friendly Summer Spritzer

What kid doesn’t love watermelon? Combine the fresh cubes with squeezed lime juice, sugar, kosher salt, and sparkling water to make a fancy, fresh kiddie mocktail. Mint sprigs are optional.

Get the recipe here.

Bonus #2: Easy Arrangements and Perfect-Looking Party Foods

You don’t need a recipe to create a fun-filled rainbow fruit parfait…

Black olive penguins…

A patriotic eagle cheeseball…

Backyard Bug Snacks…

Donut-shaped apple slices…

or Firecracker Dogs!

Don’t overlook the beauty of an easy picnic snack board with cut cheese, meat roll-ups, pretzels, nuts, and fruits either! The kids are more likely to experience a variety of foods, rather than filling up on one choice item all day.

Bonus #3: Entertainment Add-Ons For Your Party, Event, or Family Night!

If you’re planning a small gathering, birthday party, or family picnic this summer, consider how Shine’s offerings can make it even better! Our signature craft bags, customizable themed party boxes, and interactive Zoom cooking classes provide everything you need for a truly momentous occasion. We also host private parties at your location of choice for up to eight children.

Contact us to learn more.

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

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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.

3 Boredom-Busting Enrichment Activities for Kids in Quarantine

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Kids are plenty busy with school, but eventually the classes will drop off into the ambiguity of a quarantine summertime. What does that mean? Normally, it’s all swimming pools, playgrounds, amusement parks, museums, themed camps, and events. Maintaining structure and “student” status throughout the downtime will help your child return to the daily grind with ease in September.

The Case for Boredom-Busting

NY Times columnists may opine that “Boredom teaches us that life isn’t a parade of amusements,” while spawning positive traits like creativity and self-sufficiency. However, there is a difference between scheduling a bit of downtime and absolute boredom.

Downtime can be thought of as periods of time where there are no scheduled activities, but the use of devices is not permitted. It is a period set aside for recreation and renewal. Examples of downtime activities include bike riding, playdates, book reading, cooking, digging in the sandbox, dress up theater, or Lego building. There is value in providing room for unstructured activities and stoking creative passions. For younger children, you can provide this atmosphere by rotating toys in and out of storage, mandating outdoor time each day, rotating new books in and out of circulation, including kids in family chore time, and planning quality time activities on the weekends.

On the other hand, boredom can be dangerous. As the Institute for Family Studies points out:

  • Bored elementary-aged students perform poorer in school, suffer from low attentiveness and poor recall, and generally put in less effort.
  • Bored teens are more likely to quit school and pick up vices like smoking, drinking, or street drugs. They are at risk of becoming binge eaters, speeders, or depressed.
  • Bored college students suffer from lack of purpose and diminished life satisfaction.

In one study, participants overwhelmingly chose to self-administer electric shocks than to sit and endure boredom. Think about that for a minute! Clearly, boredom leads to poor choices.

You don’t want to be the parent that runs each day like a drill sergeant, scheduled to the minute. However, you don’t want your child moping around all summer complaining, “I’m bored.” Instead, strive for a moderate approach. Sprinkling a few enriching activities into your child’s schedule helps add purpose and meaning to the days. These endeavors build competence, character, capability, and competence. They build bridges of opportunity and keep the mind sharp, while fostering passions and exploration.

How To Enrich Your Child’s Education Over The Summer

Shine offers a number of ways to enrich your child’s education and bust boredom this summer:

1. Virtual Music Lessons

Shine offers online music classes for:

  • Piano
  • Guitar
  • Bass
  • Ukulele
  • Drums

Should your child take music this summer?

Scientists have called music “a breakthrough” for children ages two to nine. After 15 months of weekly instruction, children improve in fine motor skills, spatial intelligence, and sound discrimination abilities.

By age six, young musicians score at least three IQ points higher than their peers. (That three point difference can make the difference between being a clerk and being a manager.) On average, children in music education programs score about 22 percent higher in English and 20 percent higher on standardized math tests.

As we’ve explained in the past, music gives children a better understanding of themselves by emphasizing how emotions can be expressed nonverbally through music.

Benefits of virtual music lessons

Most students opt for one-on-one lessons, but we can also do group concerts and dance parties for kids who are missing out on the social aspect of school music class.

The video chats are much more fun than solo study and filling out practice charts on Google Classroom. Between lessons, students can use a smart software app to hone the skills they’ve learned.

Virtual lessons can be tailored for individual students, whether they appreciate the classics or have a penchant for modern music styles. Teacher rapport and real-time feedback ensures that instrument time is a fun, interactive part of the day.

The one-on-one time and personal attention goes above and beyond what kids typically get out of school music education or an app subscription, which makes all the difference in terms of motivation. 

2. Second Language Lessons

Shine is offering online lessons at all levels for:

  • SPANISH
  • MANDARIN

Should your child take language lessons this summer?

There are numerous benefits to learning a second language. Sure, your child will be more prepared for college and job opportunities one day, but language proficiency goes beyond the obvious. Research shows kids who can speak more than one language have denser gray matter – the part of the brain associated with emotional regulation, impulse control, and decision making. They grow up to be more empathic and better at problem-solving than peers who only speak their native tongue.

  • Why Spanish? With 33 million native speakers, Spanish is the second most common language spoken in the U.S. It’s relatively easy to use, as 30% of English words derive from the same Latin roots as Spanish words.
  • Why Mandarin? Your child will be in good global company, as 873 million people speak Mandarin worldwide. Many kids love learning the beautiful artistic brushstrokes of writing Mandarin. In a sense, Mandarin is easy without verbs, plurals, tenses, or conjugations.

Benefits of virtual language instruction

Online language lessons allows children to learn at their own pace. We not only provide vocabulary, but strive to enhance your child’s reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills.

We use a variety of multimedia and teach about the cultures behind these languages to spark curiosity and interest. Our classes are designed to engage and inspire.

While apps are gamified and fun, kids do not receive the same individual feedback, social interaction, and self-esteem boost as they do when working remotely with a teacher.  

3. Zoom Craft Sessions  

Shine is offering:

  • Curated craft bags geared toward ages 4-11, shipped to your home
  • Group online art classes
  • Private online art instruction

Should your child pick up crafting this summer?

Young children gain fine motor skills when they dabble in art. Whether your child is two or a teenager, the sense of emotional gratification of artistic expression is strong. Artistic exploration encourages children to engage in their senses, make thoughtful decisions, reflect upon natural beauty, and express their feelings.

According to PBS, young people who participate in the arts three hours a day three days a week for at least a year are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, participate in math/science fairs, or win a writing award.

Benefits of Zoom craft sessions and craft bags

If you haven’t seen our craft bags yet, check out this video on Instagram. They are chock full of creative free-flow materials, unique projects, and curated colors! We save you the time and hassle of researching what to do or going to the store to buy materials. You can use the materials as you wish, follow the tutorial, or hop on a Zoom group class for the social benefits.

Maybe your child has an interest in drawing, painting, fashion design, or culinary arts. Any type of art class can be explored with Shine’s individual lessons online. Our art projects make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, end-of-year teacher presents, cheering up relatives, and cherishing as mementos.

Our virtual group parties have been wildly popular for child birthday parties. We can ship out supply bags to your whole crew in advance of your child’s birthday and lead the group through a fun and special event, just as we would if we could be there in person. Unfortunately, you’ll be in charge of cleanup this time, but we do include plastic table cloths to keep the mess to a minimum. To see the joy on your child’s face as they share in a new experience with friends over Zoom will be well worth it.

Don’t sit idle all summer. Engage and inspire with Shine’s boredom busters including our craft bags and online classes!

5 Simple Things You and Your Kids Can Do To Give Back During the COVID-19 Quarantine

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“The darker the storm, the brighter the rainbow.”

By now, you’ve had a few weeks to adjust to the “new normal.” You likely have a routine, you’ve explained the situation to your children, and you’re busy keeping up with school work. Yet, you may also be feeling tinges of emptiness, anxiety, or helplessness. During a time of crisis, it can be cathartic to reach out to others. Use this time productively to demonstrate the kindness, charity, and thoughtfulness you want your kids to assimilate. Joining together in a service project bonds the family closer together and helps your children with anxiety and boredom as well. 

1. Take care of your own.

First and foremost, practice social distancing! By now, scientists have talked until they’re blue in the face about the dire need of flattening the curve by staying at home with your immediate family members. With reduced work hours and homeschooling in full effect, you’re likely to be spending a LOT more family time these days.

However, don’t forget about family members who may be missing your family or enduring the quarantine in complete isolation from others. Make it a habit – if not daily, then at least weekly – to catch up with grandparents, cousins, friends, or even your child’s classmates.

Many people are using FaceTime, Zoom, or the House Party app to visually connect with others. You can also tape video messages on your smartphone and text them directly to others. Another alternative (for longer videos) is to upload them to YouTube, list them as “unshared” to keep them unsearchable, and send the link to your desired recipient via text or email. You can also create beautiful works of art with the kids to mail to loved ones the old-fashioned way with a stamp. Share a little bit of your day with other parents who are also feeling their way through this Brave New World of homeschooling.

2. Lend a helping hand to your neighbors.

Consider what you can do for your neighbors, particularly the elderly or homebound. Use this template to print out viral kindness postcards to place in mailboxes, offering assistance – whether it’s picking up a few items from the store, completing yard work, or making a friendly wellness call.

If you’re feeling too cooped up and need to get out into the community, New York Cares is in need of volunteers to help with a number of projects. You might pack meal bags for delivery to seniors, bag produce, or serve at a local food pantry. 

Show your support for neighborhood walkers by posting one of these popular rainbow signs in your window with an encouraging message. Some kids are also using sidewalk chalk to write messages of cheer, hope, love, and togetherness. You might consider thanking “essential personnel” that may be coming to your home, such as a postal worker or delivery person.

3. Make sure there’s enough food for everyone.

A number of organizations are providing for the hungry. More than 80,000 New Yorkers filed for unemployment in March, so we can only assume the number of people who suddenly can’t afford groceries is skyrocketing similarly. You can feed five people for $1 with your donation to The Food Bank of NYC.

Make it a family affair by using this opportunity to talk to your kids about the importance of giving money to local food banks. You might read a book like Maddi’s Fridge or Last Stop on Market Street to help younger child understand that some children are less fortunate, particularly during economic downturns like the one we’re facing now. 

Charities like City Harvest openly encourage young volunteerism. Kids can get involved with the “Draw Hope To Drive Hope” campaign by: coloring or designing a donation food truck or lunch bag. Socially share using hashtag #WeAreCityHarvest to raise awareness, then mail the finished illustration to drivers on the front lines at drawhope@cityharvest.org or City Harvest Food Rescue Facility, 55-01 2nd Street, Queens NY 11101, ATTN: Francesca. Do your part by sending in a financial contribution; just $15 feeds 55 children for a day. You can double your donation amount by texting LUNCH to 20222, which will not only make a $15 donation, but will include a matched amount from Danone North America (up to $100K).

Of course, you’d hate to hear that all your favorite restaurants have gone out of business after this is all over. Order out from your favorite NYC eatery offering takeout at least once a week to support your local community. As an added bonus, you can donate to restaurants that are raising funds to feed busy healthcare workers.

4. Adopt a pet.

Now that you are spending more time at home, it could be the right time to expand your family. Adopting a pet is a loving gesture that your kids will really enjoy. New animals require lots of attention during their initial adjustment phase, with a structured routine, lots of play, and daily training sessions. Be sure you specifically check off the box to search “good with children.”

Animal Care Centers of NYC is not allowing tours of the buildings as per usual, but if you see a pet that pulls at your heart strands on their website, a care coordinator can set up a meeting. You may also consider donating animal food, cleaning supplies, bedding, leashes, collars, and bowls to a local animal shelter. They are always in need.

5. Help classmates celebrate their birthdays.

It can be difficult for children to cope with having a quarantine birthday. They miss out on all the special treats they’ve seen other kids receive on their birthdays earlier in the school year – be it a crown, a special song, or cupcakes brought in by parents. They may also be missing out on a party with friends, presents, and a place they really love.

Reach out to your child’s teacher to find out who is celebrating a birthday coming up. For classmates your child is not besties with, you can simply create a “Happy Birthday” sign to send virtually – or you might record a video to pass along. Organizing a virtual Zoom Party can be a fun way to get the whole class together, at least for a song.

For friends, cousins, and classmates your child is closer to, you might consider sending a small gift and calling them up for a video chat. Some families do car parades, sending their drive-by wishes, honking horns. You might place balloons on a porch railing, decorate the yard, or draw chalk messages in their driveways (with parental permission, of course!) 

If your child is the one having a quarantine birthday, consider different ways to make the day special. Create a balloon waterfall to rain down on your child when he or she opens the door in the morning. Pick a theme. For instance, you might pitch a tent and have a pretend campout at home or set up a projection screen movie. Set up a scavenger hunt where one present leads to another throughout the house and yard. Spend the day cooking a favorite ethnic meal or baking together, filming your child’s contribution like a cooking show. FaceTime with friends and family throughout the day. Families have been doing dress-up princess tea parties, beach parties with blow-up pools full of pillows and blankets in the living room, and ice cream sundaes.

We look forward to seeing you in our classes and workshops after the quarantine is over! 

And while still in quarantine, click here to learn more about our craft bags and online classes!

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