October Family Fun: Polish-American Heritage Month on the East End

October Family Fun: Polish-American Heritage Month on the East End

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Polish-American Heritage Month, celebrated each October, honors the rich contributions of Polish immigrants to American culture. Originally observed in August, it now coincides with the 1608 arrival of the first Polish settlers in Jamestown, Virginia, and commemorates Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski, the “Father of the American Cavalry.”

On Long Island, nearly one in five people claim some Polish ancestry—but whether you have Polish roots or not, celebrating the vibrant traditions with your children enriches understanding and promotes inclusivity.

Read Together: Polish Folk Tales

For a quiet bedtime activity, why not dive into the magical world of Polish folklore? The stories from Poland are brimming with adventure, lessons on kindness, and tales of mythical creatures. Start with The Best of Polish Fairy Tales by Sergiej Nowikow, which features 50 folk stories paired with beautiful illustrations. These tales reflect the vitality of the Polish people and their strong family values. For more fantastical fun, check out The Dragon of Krakow and Other Polish Stories by Richard Monte. With titles like “The King Who Was Eaten by Bees” and “Neptune and the Naughty Fish,” you’re sure to be entertained.

Get Crafty: Polish Folk Art – Wycinanki

If your kids enjoy hands-on activities, introduce them to Wycinanki, the traditional Polish folk art of paper-cut designs. Pronounced “vee-chee-non-kee,” this intricate craft dates back at least 150 years. While the exact origin is unknown, one legend suggests that farmers cut holes in sheepskin window coverings to let light into their homes. These holes eventually evolved into beautiful, decorative patterns.

To get started on your own wycinanki project, gather colored paper, scissors, and glue. Common designs include symmetrical images of peacocks, doves, and flowers, layered to create a stunning final piece.

Encourage your children to explore reflection symmetry, as the beauty of wycinanki lies in its perfect balance and harmony. Crafting these paper-cut designs together is not only a creative way to spend time but also a lesson in patience and precision—skills that kids can carry with them to school.

Bust a Move: Dance and Music

For families who love to move, Polkas for Children by the Polish American All Stars will have everyone up and twirling around the room with a partner. Another classic? Get kids laughing and burning off steam with The Chicken Dance, a festive tune known across both Germany and Poland.

Spend a Day: Visit Polish Town in Riverhead

For a local adventure, head over to Polish Town in Riverhead. Settled by Polish immigrants in the early 1900s, this charming 15-block neighborhood is filled with vibrant touches of Polish heritage.

  • Keep an eye out for the majestic Polish eagle proudly displayed on banners, street signs, flags, and buildings, along with the red and white colors that symbolize Poland.
  • Visit St. Isidore’s Church, the oldest Polish church on Long Island, where on Sundays at 10:30, you’ll catch a traditional Polish-language mass.
  • Afterward, make your way to Birchwood of Polish Town for kid-friendly twists on Polish classics—like Kielbasa Grilled Cheese or a Polish Reuben. And, of course, you can’t leave without trying their delicious pierogis, golomkis, and potato pancakes!
  • To bring a taste of Poland home, duck into the Polka Deli or Euro Deli to stock up on homemade kielbasa or other specialties for your own Polish feast.

Cook and Enjoy: Taste the Flavors of Poland

One of the best ways to connect with another culture is through food, and Polish cuisine is as hearty as it is delicious. Cooking with kids is not only fun but educational.

  • Start with the beloved Polish potato pancake, or placki ziemniaczane. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, serve with a side of applesauce or sour cream for dipping fun.
  • If you want to try something more challenging, the classic pierogi is an instant hit. These tender dumplings can be filled with everything from potatoes to fruit, so you can customize to your kids’ palate. (But really, you can’t go wrong with farmer’s cheese!)
  • And for dessert? The simple-yet-scrumptious Polish apple cake, szarlotka, is an easy fall favorite.

Celebrate: Talk About Culture and Community

Whether through storytelling, cooking, crafts, music, or local exploration, celebrating Polish-American Heritage Month with your kids broadens their cultural horizons. By participating in these activities, your children will not only gain a better understanding of Polish traditions but also appreciate the richness of New York’s diverse communities. So why not make October a month of fun, learning, and connection for the whole family?

P.S. If your kids are curious about the world and enjoy hands-on learning, visit Shine Studio’s Globe Trekkers class. This program offers children ages 4–12 the chance to “travel” to a different country each week, exploring its art, music, games, and flavors. It’s a wonderful way to introduce young minds to new traditions, including those from Poland, and help them develop an appreciation for other cultures.

Fun Fall & Halloween Brunch Recipes For Kids

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Fall is the perfect time to gather your good little boys and ghouls in the kitchen to create seasonal treats that capture the flavors of autumn and leave lasting memories of the season. Whether you’re preparing for a Halloween party or just celebrating the crisp days of fall, these brunch recipes delight both kids and adults alike. Plus, the recipes are easy enough for your mummy’s little helpers to join in—making it a fun weekend activity.

Pumpkin Cheesecake French Toast

Bring the cozy flavors of fall to your brunch table with a twist on classic French toast. Pumpkin cheesecake French toast is sure to become a new family favorite.

Start by whisking together 3 large eggs, ½ cup milk, ½ cup pumpkin puree, 1 tsp vanilla extract, amd 1 tsp pumpkin spice. Dip 8 slices of thick brioche bread into the mixture, then cook them in a heated, skillet with 1 tbsp butter about 2-3 minutes per sideor until golden brown.

To take it up a notch, prepare a cheesecake filling with 4 oz softened cream cheese, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and ½ tsp of ground cinnamon. Sandwich the filling between two slices of French toast, drizzle with maple syrup, and add whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and your kids will love layering the ingredients!

Harvest Cinnamon Apple Waffles

Waffles are always a hit, but adding fall flavors like cinnamon apples takes them to the next level. Start by preparing your favorite box of waffle batter—or, better yet, make it from scratch with 1.5 cups whole wheat flour, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1.5 cups milk (or buttermilk), ¼ cup vegetable oil, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs.

While the waffles are cooking, sauté 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced) in 2 tbsp butter, adding ½ tsp cinnamon and 2 tbsp brown sugar until soft and caramelized.

Once the waffles are ready, top them with the warm cinnamon apples and ¼ cup of chopped pecans for crunch. Don’t forget a generous drizzle of maple syrup.

These waffles make for a cozy fall brunch and are perfect for involving kids in the cooking process—from mixing the batter to decorating the waffles with toppings. For added intrigue, you might also consider adding spooky sprinkles to your shopping list.

Monster Bagels

Start by gathering your ingredients for this easy, interactive dish:

  • 4 mini bagels (or 2 regular bagels cut in half)
  • 4 tablespoons of cream cheese or mashed avocado (enough to spread on each bagel)
  • 4 slices of turkey or ham
  • 2 slices of cheddar or American cheese
  • 8 pitted black olives or 4 cherry tomatoes (for monster eyes)
  • Toothpicks (optional—to secure the eyes)

Begin by laying out the bagels on your countertop. Whether you choose mini bagels for cute, individual monsters or regular bagels for larger ones, it’s up to you! Let your kids choose between a savory base of cream cheese or mashed avocado—both spread easily onto the bagel halves.

Next, take a slice of turkey or ham and layer it inside each bagel as the “monster’s mouth.” For added fun, you can fluff it up to make it look like wild monster “tongues” hanging out.

Now it’s time to make the monster’s teeth! Cut slices of cheddar or American cheese and into jagged pieces or skinny rectangles. Help your kids tuck these cheesy “teeth” around the edge of the bagel to give each monster its own toothy grin.

Finally, it’s time to bring your monsters to life with black olives or cherry tomatoes for the eyes, securing them with toothpicks. If you want to get extra creative, try slicing olives into smaller pieces to make different-sized “pupils” or use multiple toothpicks to give your monsters more than two eyes.

Once all the pieces are in place, the monsters are ready to serve!

Encourage Creativity and Build Life Skills Early

At Shine NYC, we believe that nurturing creativity early on helps kids thrive—and cooking together is one of the best ways to explore seasonal fun while learning valuable life skills. Engaging kids in the kitchen not only sparks their imagination but also supports cognitive development, motor skills, and teamwork.

For your aspiring young chefs, explore our Kitchen Stars cooking classes. Designed for ages 3-5, 6-7, and 8-10, these hands-on classes allow kids to discover new recipes, refine their culinary talents, and gain confidence in a fun, supportive environment.  

Overcoming America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Good Neighbor Day Matters

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Loneliness has reached epidemic levels in the US, with 58% of adults reporting feelings of isolation. According to the CDC, social isolation can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and even premature death. But here’s the good news: we can all play a part in turning the tide—starting with our own neighborhoods!

National Good Neighbor Day, celebrated on September 28, is more than just a day on the calendar—it’s an opportunity for families to break out of their bubbles, meet new people, and create stronger, more connected communities. For families in the Hamptons and East End of Long Island, it’s the perfect chance to teach your kids about kindness, generosity, and the joy of giving back, all while having some local fun.

A Brief History of Good Neighbor Day

Did you know that Good Neighbor Day has been around since 1978? It was originally proposed by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, to encourage community spirit. President Jimmy Carter made it official with a proclamation, calling on Americans to engage with those who live around them. Then, in 2003, the Senate officially designated September 28 as National Good Neighbor Day, recognizing the importance of creating stronger, more connected communities. In today’s world, that mission is more relevant than ever.

Why Celebrate with Your Kids?

Teaching kids about empathy and kindness is one of the best gifts you can give. By participating in Good Neighbor Day, families can show children the importance of being good citizens—not just within their home but in the world around them. When kids experience the joy of giving, whether through a simple wave or delivering a homemade treat, they learn the value of human connection and the impact of small acts of kindness. Plus, growing up in a neighborhood where people genuinely know and care for one another helps kids feel safe, secure, and more socially confident. It’s a win-win!

Fun Ways to Celebrate Good Neighbor Day with Your Family

Here are a few simple yet meaningful ways to engage:

  1. Create colorful postcards. Get crafty with your kids! Print out this postcard template, let them color, sign, and decorate them, then deliver these little masterpieces to your neighbors. Spread some extra cheer by chalking inspiring messages on your sidewalks like “Kindness lives here!” or “You are enough!”
  2. Bake and deliver treats. What better way to connect than through food? Spend the afternoon baking cookies, cupcakes, or even a classic Irish soda bread. Have your kids help with packaging and delivering them to nearby homes. After all, sharing food is one of the most timeless gestures of kindness.
  3. Play neighborhood Bingo. Keep the excitement going with a fun challenge. Download a printable Neighborhood Bingo card where kids can check off activities like talking to a neighbor, identifying local trees, drawing maps, or spending time at a park. Once you have a “Bingo,” you can send a picture to hope@hopefulneighborhood.org to receive a prize!
  4. Try a placemaking activity. There are many unique ways to take pride in where you love—whether it’s building a city bench, creating a manhole cover t-shirt, or setting up a free library. Check out this Curbed article for inspiration.
  5. Host a neighborhood clean-up. Teach your kids about environmental stewardship by organizing a neighborhood clean-up. Families can walk around the block or visit a local park to pick up litter. Not only does this beautify the community, but it also reinforces the idea that being a good neighbor means taking care of shared spaces.
  6. Get involved in local charities. Volunteering as a family is a great way to bond and give back. Consider lending a hand at local food banks like Heart of the Hamptons in Southampton or Maureen’s Haven in Riverhead, which supports homeless individuals across the East End.
  7. Attend a kids’ night out. Want a fun night out for the kids? Check out Our Fabulous Variety Show’s a Good Neighbor Day event from 5:30-8:30 at Stella Maris Regional School in East Hampton for pizza, crafts, movies, and more.

However you choose to celebrate, National Good Neighbor Day is all about coming together as a community. Whether you’re baking treats, volunteering, or simply saying hello to a new neighbor, your efforts will go a long way in fostering a kinder, more connected neighborhood.

Looking for more fun ways to connect with local families? The Shine Studio offers workshops, camps, and classes that combine art, music, and cultural learning—perfect for ages 0-12. Come join the fun!

Weekly Adventures Around the World: Cultural Learning Through Play

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In today’s interconnected world, fostering cultural awareness and diversity in your child is more important than ever. Exposing kids to different cultures helps them develop empathy, broaden their perspectives, and equips them with skills to thrive in a global society. One of the most engaging ways to achieve this is through play and hands-on activities.

Let’s explore how your family can embark on weekly adventures to different countries, bringing each culture to life through art, music, cooking, and games.

Mexico: Crafting and Music


Dive into the vibrant world of Mexico by creating a traditional, colorful banner used for celebrations. This activity will hone your child’s fine motor skills while immersing them in Mexico’s festive spirit.

To make a papel picado: Start with colorful tissue paper and fold it accordion-style. Then, fold it in half and cut small shapes along the edges, like a paper snowflake. Unfold the tissue paper carefully to reveal a beautiful pattern. Attach the finished designs to a string or ribbon to create a festive banner.  

Music is a heartbeat of Mexican culture. Explore the lively sounds of mariachi bands with artists like Mariachi Real De San Diego and Mariachi Cobre. Play along by constructing simple instruments like maracas using recycled materials. With this hands-on musical journey, your child learns rhythm and the joy of Mexican traditions.

To make simple maracas using recycled materials: Start with empty plastic bottles or containers. Fill each bottle partially with dried beans, rice, or small pebbles to create the rattle. Secure the lids tightly with tape or glue. For added fun, let kids decorate the bottles with paint, stickers, or colorful tape.  

Japan: Origami and Sushi

Turn your attention to Japan, where your child learns the delicate art of origami. Start with this easy Origami Puppy — or, for older kids, try the Origami Jumping Frog that really hops. Folding paper into intricate shapes teaches patience and creativity, introducing them to the beauty of Japanese aesthetics.

Next, enhance the sensory experience with a culinary adventure by making onigiri.

To make Japanese-style sticky rice balls (onigiri): Start by cooking short-grain rice until it is sticky. Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly. Wet your hands with water and sprinkle salt on them to prevent the rice from sticking. Take a handful of rice and shape it into a ball or a triangle. Place a small piece of filling, such as pickled plum (umeboshi), salmon, or tuna, in the center before shaping. Finally, wrap a strip of nori (seaweed) around the rice ball for added flavor and texture.  

Italy: Pizzas and Bocce

Transport your child to Italy, where they can get hands-on with mini pizzas. This delicious activity introduces them to the basics of Italian ingredients and cooking.

To make easy Italian mini pizzas: Roll store-bought dough into small circles about 4-5 inches in diameter. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on each circle. Top with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, and/or bell peppers. Bake in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano before serving.  

Italian culture is rich with traditional games. Bocce ball, for example, is a fun game that develops coordination and strategic thinking. Playing such games allows your child to engage in physical activity while learning about Italian leisure and social interactions.

To play bocce: Each team gets four colored balls (usually two per player or four per team in doubles).One team throws a small white target ball, called the pallino, onto the court. Players then take turns throwing their balls, aiming to get them as close as possible to the pallino. The team with the closest ball earns 1 point for each ball closer to the pallino than the opposing team’s closest ball. Play continues until all balls are thrown, and the team that reaches 21 points first wins.

India: Holi and Dance

In week 4, explore vibrant Indian colors by having your own Holi Festival. Celebrated primarily in India and Nepal, Holi marks the arrival of spring, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the onset of new beginnings. Participants celebrate by throwing colored powders and water, signifying joy and unity.

For Holi fun at home: Gather safe colored powders (made from food dye and corn starch). Dress in old, light-colored clothes with sunglasses for eye protection. Find a spacious outdoor area and take turns gently throwing powders at each other. Afterward, brush off excess powder and wash up with mild soap and water. Enjoy snacks like samosas together to celebrate togetherness.  

Bollywood dance is important in Indian tradition as a reflection of cultural values and storytelling — and also as a unifying expression of joy, emotion, and celebration across diverse communities. Simple Bollywood dance routines can be taught, promote physical fitness and encourage your child’s self-expression, while providing a glimpse into Indian culture through dance.

Why Hands-On Cultural Learning Matters

Hands-on activities are crucial in enhancing learning because they engage multiple senses and make abstract concepts tangible. When your child actively participates in crafts, music, cooking, and games, they are more likely to retain information and develop a deeper understanding of cultural nuances.

These activities also encourage family collaboration and communication, fostering social skills and teamwork. By working together on a craft or playing a traditional game, your child learns to appreciate different perspectives and develop mutual respect.

Give Your Child the Gift of Global Awareness

For parents looking to enrich their child’s summer with educational and cultural adventures, consider immersive programs — like Shine’s Globe Trekkers. Geared toward ages 4-12, we explore a new country each week. Through art, music, flavors, and games, your child can gain a profound appreciation for cultural diversity while having a fantastic time.

Contact us to learn more.

Nurturing Healthy Habits: 5 Benefits of Cooking With Your Kids

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Kids in the kitchen may not be the quickest way to get dinner to the table, but for growing young minds and bodies, it’s recipe for success. Engaging kids in the kitchen transforms mealtime into a fun learning opportunity that develops essential life skills, boosts confidence, and fosters a lifetime of healthy eating.  

Here are five research-backed benefits of cooking with kids:

1. Encourage Adventurous Eating

When kids are involved in meal preparation, they are more adventurous eaters, open to a variety of foods. A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that children who engage in tactile experiences, such as handling foods, exhibit less neophobia, or food fear (van der Horst et al., 2014). Additionally, research indicates that children involved in cooking are more willing to try foods they help prepare and tend to consume foods from all food groups (Ng et al., 2021; Quelly, 2019; Nozue et al., 2016).

2. Increase Vegetable Consumption

Getting kids to eat their veggies can be a challenge. Over 90% of children in the U.S. consume fewer vegetables than recommended (Kim et al., 2014). But studies show that children who participate in cooking are more likely to eat both raw and cooked vegetables at mealtime without feeling pressured (DeCosta et al., 2017; Garcia et al., 2020). Regular involvement in meal preparation leads to an additional serving of vegetables daily, contributing to healthier diets and reducing the risk of nutritional deficiencies (Chu et al., 2014; Quelly, 2019).

3. Boost Self-Confidence and Accomplishment

Cooking provides children with a sense of accomplishment that boosts their self-confidence. A study of fourth graders participating in cooking classes showed that children felt a “sense of accomplishment” and increased self-confidence from their cooking experiences (Fernando, 2020). This confidence extends to other areas of their lives, promoting independence and self-sufficiency (Asigbee et al., 2020).

4. Cultivate Essential Life Skills

The kitchen is a fantastic learning environment where children can develop valuable life skills. Cooking teaches basic math skills such as counting, measuring, and weighing, as well as science concepts, vocabulary, and following directions (Fernando, 2020). According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, cooking time can be used to teach kids about nutrition, food origins, and food safety, enhancing their understanding of balanced meals and the benefits of whole foods (Fernando, 2020). Through fun, practical learning experiences, children learn skills that prepare them for future independence.

5. Promote Healthier Eating Habits

Children who cook are more likely to develop healthier eating habits that last a lifetime. A study by Melissa Plugh Prescott and colleagues from the University of Illinois found that cooking-related programs for kids lead to healthier eating behaviors, particularly in terms of fruit and vegetable intake (Prescott et al., 2019). The study showed that kids’ preferences for vegetables and their confidence in cooking (cooking self-efficacy) are significant predictors of their diet quality. By fostering a love for cooking and healthy foods, parents can set their children on a path to better dietary habits.

With patience and planning, involving your children in the kitchen creates enjoyable family time while instilling lifelong skills and healthy habits. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some ingredients, and start cooking with your kids today.

Shine On, Little Chefs!

Want to get your child cooking, but not sure where or how to begin? Here are 3 fun ways to get started:

Resources:

  1. van der Horst, K., Ferrage, A., & Rytz, A. (2014). Involving children in meal preparation. Effects on food intake. Appetite, 79, 18–24 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2014.03.030
  2. Ng, C. M., Kaur, S., Koo, H. C., & Mukhtar, F. (2021). Involvement of children in hands-on meal preparation and the associated nutrition outcomes: A scoping review. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics , 35(2), 350-362. https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12911
  3. Quelly, S. B. (2019). Helping with meal preparation and children’s dietary intake: A literature review. The Journal of School Nursing, 35(1), 51–60. https://doi.org/10.1177/1059840518781235
  4. Nozue, M., Ishida, H., Hazano, S., Nakanishi, A., Yamamoto, T., Abe, A., Nishi, N., Yokoyama, T., & Murayama, N. (2016). Associations between Japanese schoolchildren’s involvement in at-home meal preparation, their food intakes, and cooking skills. Nutrition Research and Practice, 10(3), 359–363. https://doi.org/10.4162/nrp.2016.10.3.359
  5. Kim, S. A., Moore, L. V., Galuska, D., Wright, A. P., Harris, D., Grummer-Strawn, L. M., Merlo, C. L., Nihiser, A. J., Rhodes, D. G. (2014). Vital Signs: Fruit and vegetable intake among children—United States, 2003–2010. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), 63, 671–676.
  6. DeCosta, P., Møller, P., Frøst, M. B., & Olsen, A. (2017). Changing children’s eating behaviour—A review of experimental research. Appetite, 113, 327–357. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2017.03.004
  7. Garcia, A. L., Brown, E., Goodale, T., McLachlan, M., & Parrett, A. (2020). A nursery-based cooking skills programme with parents and children reduced food fussiness and increased willingness to try vegetables: A quasi-experimental study. Nutrients, 12(9), 2623. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12092623
  8. Chu, Y. L., Storey, K. E., & Veugelers, P. J. (2014). Involvement in meal preparation at home is associated with better diet quality among canadian children. Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 46(4), 304–308 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jneb.2013.10.003
  9. Prescott, M.P., Lohse, B., Mitchell, D.C. et al. Child assessments of vegetable preferences and cooking self-efficacy show predictive validity with targeted diet quality measures. BMC Nutr 5, 21 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40795-019-0286-7
  10. Fernando, N. (2020, 11). 5 great reasons to cook with your kids. HealthyChildren.Org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Cooking-WithYour-Children.aspx
  11. Asigbee, F. M., Davis, J. N., Markowitz, A. K., Landry, M. J., Vandyousefi, S., Ghaddar, R., Ranjit, N., Warren, J., & van den Berg, A. (2020). The association between child cooking involvement in food preparation and fruit and vegetable intake in a hispanic youth population. Current Developments in Nutrition, 4(4). https://doi.org/10.1093/cdn/nzaa028

Five Unique Twists on Spring Egg Dyeing

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Spring egg dyeing is a cherished tradition that brings families together to celebrate the joy and renewal of the spring season. While dyeing eggs with colorful tablets is a convenient and affordable method, you may want to spark your child’s imagination and add an element of surprise this year by trying something different. From dazzling speckles to funny ninjas, these novel egg ideas promise hours of entertainment and delightful results.

For each of these crafts, you’ll need a dozen hardboiled eggs, cooled. To hard-boil an egg, place it in a pot of water, bring the water to a boil, then let the egg cook for about 10-12 minutes before cooling it in cold water.

1.      Speckled Eggs

Supplies:

  • A disposable cup with tin foil or plastic wrap over the top (older kids)

Or a plastic container with a lid (younger kids)

  • ¼ cup uncooked rice per container
  • 15-20 drops of gel food coloring per cup
  • Hard-boiled eggs, cooled completely

Steps:

  1. Fill the plastic container halfway with uncooked rice.
  2. Add 15-20 drops of different food coloring to the rice in each container.
  3. Close the lid and vigorously shake to distribute the color.
  4. Waiting 15-30 minutes before rolling your hardboiled egg in the color.
  5. Pat race onto the egg to make the color stick and let the eggs dry on a paper towel.

2.      Shaving Cream Marbled Eggs

Supplies:

  • Shaving cream (white, unscented)
  • Food coloring
  • Toothpicks
  • Hard-boiled eggs, cooled completely

Steps:

  1. Fill a shallow tray of dish with a layer of shaving cream.
  2. Use the back of a spoon to spread the shaving cream evenly.
  3. Add drops of food coloring randomly on top of the shaving cream.
  4. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the colors into the shaving cream.
  5. Roll each egg in the colored shaving cream until fully coated.
  6. Gently place the eggs on a paper towel-lined tray and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
  7. Carefully wipe off the shaving cream with a paper towel to reveal a vibrant marbled design.

3.      Ombre Eggs

Supplies:

  • Food coloring
  • Plastic cups or bowls
  • Vinegar
  • Water
  • Hard-boiled eggs, completely cooled

Steps:

  1. Rest your egg on top of a bottle cap inside a wide, flat-bottomed 8 oz glass.
  2. Combine ½ cup of boiling water with 1 tsp of white vinegar and 40 drops of food coloring.
  3. Add the solution to the cup until the egg is ¼ submerged. Soak for 5 minutes.
  4. Add clear, warm water to the glass until the egg is ½ submerged. Soak for 3 minutes.
  5. Repeat the process for one or two more stripes, pouring water and waiting 2 minutes.
  6. Remove the dyed egg from the glass with tongs and let it dry.

4.      Modge Podge Eggs

Supplies:

  • Mod Podge (or school glue mixed with a little water)
  • Tissue paper cut into various shapes (larger shapes recommended for younger children)
  • Sponge brush or paint brush

Steps:

  1. Using a sponge or paint brush, apply Mod Podge onto the surface of the egg.
  2. Place pieces of tissue paper onto the Mod Podge-covered egg.
  3. Apply another layer of Mod Podge on top of the tissue paper, pressing to adhere it to the egg.
  4. Continue adding tissue paper pieces and applying Mod Podge until the entire egg is covered.
  5. Allow the eggs to dry in the carton, rotating them occasionally to prevent sticking.

5.      Egg Ninjas

Supplies:

  • Black and skin tone acrylic paint
  • Paintbrush
  • Black Sharpie
  • Silicone glue (or a glue gun)
  • Thin silk ribbons in various colors
  • Toothpicks

Steps:

  1. Draw an oval shape on the egg using a pencil or marker. (Pro tip: Brown eggs work best!)
  2. Using your brush, paint the rest of the egg with black acrylic paint.
  3. Using the glue, attach two toothpicks vertically on the back of the egg like crossed swords.
  4. Use glue to create the ninja’s belt with the silk ribbons.
  5. Draw the ninja’s eyes and eyebrows with a black sharpie.
  6. If necessary, trim the tips of the toothpicks so the egg stands upright.

Got a creative child who can’t get their hands on enough crafts? Drop into The Shine Studio in The Hamptons, New York to treat them to a drop-in class, a workshop, or a break week camp. 

Celebrating World’s Children Day on November 20th

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On November 20th, every year since 1954, the world comes together to celebrate World’s Children Day. What better way to honor the importance of children’s rights and well-being than to plan a special activity with your young ones? In the vibrant East End of New York, there are countless ways to make this day memorable and meaningful for your kids.

Give the Gift of Quality Time

Above all, the best gift you can give your child on World’s Children Day is your time and attention. Simply wishing them a “Happy World Children’s Day” and setting the day aside for them — listening to their stories, playing their favorite games, or baking together — shows that you love and cherish them.

Encourage Empathy and Compassion

As a parent, teaching your child empathy and compassion is one of the most significant actions you’ll ever take in life. Younger children respond well to the power of storytelling, so you might take this opportunity to explore important themes like kindness, diversity, and acceptance. Or you might read with your older kids UNICEF’s universal rights of a child to emphasize the importance of having rights.

Give Back to the Community

The giving spirit starts at home. UNICEF recommends wearing blue to show solidarity with children and raise awareness about their rights — but that’s not all you can do! Acknowledge the rights and well-being of children around the world by donating money to make a difference, organizing a small charitable event in your neighborhood, or collecting food, clothing, and Christmas gift donations for a local children’s charity.

Participate in Educational Activities

Learning and play go hand in hand. World’s Children Day is an opportunity to engage in educational activities that are both fun and informative. Visit museums like the Children’s Museum of the East End or the South Fork Natural History Museum, where they can explore, learn, and play. We partner with local institutions for field trips and parties around the New York’s East End.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Health, water, food, and environment are among a child’s essential rights. Celebrate World’s Children Day by bundling up and taking a walk around one of the area’s most beautiful parks — like Montauk Point State Park or Hither Hills State Park. These experiences can be eye-opening for your little ones and teach them about the importance of preserving the environment.

Discover Different Cultures

We may be far from New York City’s melting pot of cultures with Chinatown or Little Italy just a subway ride away, but you can make crafts, cook cultural cuisines, read books, and listen to music that celebrates the unique contributions of world cultures. In fact, our blog is filled with ideas!

Visit The Shine Studio: Where Creativity Meets Fun

The Shine Studio in Bridgehampton is dedicated to nurturing creativity and empathy in children. We cater to ages 2-10 and a variety of interests from art and culture, to STEAM and sports. On World’s Children Day, we welcome you to join us for a class, workshop, or drop-in session that aligns with your child’s specific interests. Whether you spend the day at the Shine Studio or not, there are plenty of ways to make this day meaningful and memorable for your whole family.

World’s Children Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and advocate for the rights and well-being of children. Whether it’s exploring museums, embracing diversity, or simply spending quality time together, every effort you make counts toward creating a brighter future for your children.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Family-Friendly Activities

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As the leaves begin to change color and the air carries a crisp autumn breeze, September marks the start of a vibrant and culturally significant time of the year: Hispanic Heritage Month.

This celebration, spanning from September 15 to October 15, invites people across the United States to recognize, appreciate, and honor the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Spanish-speaking Americans.

Families in Long Island’s East End can partake in a variety of activities that not only celebrate this heritage but also provide an opportunity to learn, savor delicious cuisine, and connect with the local Hispanic community.

Long Island Hispanic Celebrations and Festivals

Hispanic Heritage Month in the East End kicks off with a series of lively celebrations, festivals, and events that showcase the vibrancy of Hispanic culture. To celebrate, you might consider attending:

  • Parades – Main Street in Patchogue Village comes to life with a bilingual mix of music and brilliantly festooned Hispanic dancers in the second-annual Hispanic Heritage parade, taking place at noon on September 24th. The parade is a colorful, energetic, and fantastic opportunity for kids to witness the pageantry of Hispanic culture.
  • Cultural Performances – Visit the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts on September 16th from 6-10 pm for live music, dance performances, and a delicious Latin buffet. This type of event provides a captivating way for families to experience artistic expressions of Hispanic heritage.
  • Art Exhibits – Explore art exhibitions that showcase the perspectives of Hispanic and Latino artists. From September 14th through December 17th, the Long Island Museum presents “SOMOS/WE ARE,” a presentation of works from over 80 Long Island Latinx artists, spanning a variety of creative styles—from classic to contemporary.

Savoring Hispanic Cuisine

Food is a universal language that brings people together, and Hispanic Heritage Month provides an excellent opportunity for families to savor the flavors of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, South and Central American, or Spanish cuisine. As a family, you might:

  • Cook Together: Consider preparing a Hispanic-inspired meal at home and letting your kids participate in the process. Try these kid-approved Top 5 Puerto Rican Recipes or Top 5 Recipes for Cinco de Mayo. Discuss the cultural significance of the dishes you’re making and put on a mariachi band to make the occasion special.
  • Visit Local Hispanic Restaurants: Seek out Hispanic-owned restaurants and eateries—like Maria’s Mexican, a kid-friendly establishment in Nesconset, voted “the Best Latin American Restaurant on Long Island.” Another great place to try is El Rincon Criollo in Riverhead, where children can sink their teeth into their first Cubano sandwich, empanada, and plantain in a vibrant, artistic setting. Sampling the authentic tastes of Latin American and Hispanic cuisine offers a delightful dining experience for the entire family.
  • Embrace Food Festival Flavors – Local food festivals treat the palate to a variety of flavors in one place. Encourage your children to try empanadas, tamales, or arroz con pollo. The Famous Food Festival “Taste the World” Long Island will return to Tanger Outlets in Deer Park for Columbus Day Weekend (October 6th to 9th). While not exclusive to Hispanic cuisine, the festival features at least one vendor from Cuba, Colombia, Guatemala, Argentina, and Peru, as well as four from Mexico and five from Spain. In addition, kids are treated to live music, cooking demos, mini golf, face painting, henna tattoos, virtual reality, rock climbing, and a haunted house.

Connecting with the Hispanic Community

Hispanic Heritage Month is also an ideal time to connect with the local Hispanic community, fostering understanding and friendship. To help your child along, you might consider:

  • Spanish immersion classes – Shine offers a theme-based Spanish immersion class for kids ages 2-10. Through visual arts, music, movement, storytelling, and games, participants engage in the richness of the Spanish language and gain a better understanding of the culture. From constructing Mexican luchador masks and Colombian molas, children will have enriching experiences and take-home items that remind them that it’s great to celebrate diversity.
  • Volunteering – Engaging your family in volunteer opportunities is another way to support the Hispanic community while promoting empathy. A few local organizations include: Maureen’s Haven in Riverhead (where they offer Spanish classes and roughly a third of those benefited are Hispanic); the Hispanic Counseling Center in Hempstead (which offers mental health counseling, substance abuse, and educational programs); and Long Island Cares (which serves food to predominantly Hispanic and African-American communities).

Stronger Together

Hispanic Heritage Month offers East End families a unique opportunity to celebrate, learn, and connect. By participating in local celebrations, savoring Hispanic cuisine, and engaging with the Hispanic community, families create meaningful experiences that promote cultural understanding and appreciation. Whether through dance, food, or art, this month invites everyone to embrace the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic heritage and its enduring impact on American culture.

Come celebrate with us at The Shine Studio in Bridgehampton.

Women’s History Month: 3 Changemakers, Crafts, & Cookies

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Every March, we take a moment to celebrate the diverse contributions women have made to American history, society, and culture. From books and videos to family discussions and museum trips, there are countless ways to reflect upon women’s accomplishments, but hands-on crafts are a particularly memorable bonding experience that also builds fine motor skills.

Here are 3 Women’s History Month crafts to get you started:

Microphone Craft To Celebrate Female Singers

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Lady Gaga, Madonna, Adele, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Dolly Parton — take your pick! There are so many gifted and talented female voices out there to thank our lucky stars for, so crank up the tunes while you assemble this easy craft using the following:

  • A large paper towel roll, cut to size with scissors
  • A Styrofoam ball, wrapped in tinfoil and hot-glued to the end of the paper towel roll
  • Gray cardstock glued over the paper towel roll for a polished look
  • Black marker to draw the on/off buttons

Add to your upcycled ensemble with coffee can drums or a rubber-band-wrapped Kleenex box guitar. Once you’re done rocking out and role playing, older kids might appreciate this complementary video of the “Top 20 Influential Women in Music of All Time” to reinforce the learning.

Space Helmet to Celebrate Woman Astronauts

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In June 1983, Sally Ride became the first American woman to travel into space. In 1992, Mae Jemison was the first African American woman in space. And in 1995, Eileen Collins was the first female to pilot a shuttle.

For this craft, you’ll need:

  • A newspaper, torn into strips
  • 3-4 cups of papier-mâché glue
  • A balloon, inflated to the approximate size of your child’s head
  • 1 bottle white paint
  • 1 printed NASA decal (or learn to draw it!)
  • Scissors

To make this craft, you’ll apply a thin layer of glue onto the balloon and add the newspaper strips. Continue this process until you reach a sturdy thickness. Let the helmet dry in the sun for a day. Once it has completely dried out, you can use scissors to cut the neck hole and face window to proper proportions. You may want to then add another layer of papier-mâché coating around the cut edges (so they’re not sharp) before painting and adding your logo to the side. 

Learn about trailblazing female astronauts here and then, watch the first all-female spacewalk completed by Jessica Meir and Christina Koch in 2019.

Floral Headdress to Celebrate Female Artists

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Mexican artist Frida Kahlo is famous for her self-portraits, always adorned in a stunning floral headdress. For this craft you’ll need:

  • A variety of brightly colored, soft, pliable felt pieces
  • Scissors
  • Paper to make templates
  • Elmer’s glue
  • A hot glue gun
  • A satin-covered black headband

The Art Bar Blog goes into detail on how to create each type of flower. For younger kids, you’ll need to do some pre-cutting prep work, but using your pre-made templates, kids can cut their own leaves or additional flowers. By 9 or so, kids can generally make the flowers themselves with instruction and oversight. You’ll need to apply the hot glue that keeps it all together, of course.

If this art-inspired craft is more involved than you’d like, consider a floral collage made of tissue paper to celebrate Georgia O’Keefe or a color field painting based on the work of Alma Thomas.

Bonus: Cookie Recipe

Crafting sure works up an appetite, doesn’t it? Be sure to end your session by making a batch of chocolate chip cookies — accidentally invented in 1930 by Ruth Wakefield, co-owner of the Toll House Inn tourist lodge in Whitman Massachusetts. Upon finding she was out of baker’s chocolate, she experimented with semi-sweet, thinking the chocolate would dissolve.

Finding the texture surprisingly delightful, she called them “chocolate crunch cookies” and shared her recipe with a local newspaper. The sale of Nestle chocolate bars quickly grew — and, with Ruth’s permission, they printed the recipe on their wrapper and began selling the “morsels” we all know in love in their own bags in 1939.  Get Ruth’s original recipe here.

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If you’re in the mood to craft, we’re always welcoming new faces at The Shine Studio on Long Island’s East End.

How To Enjoy Christmas in July

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July kicks off with a bang, as Independence Day fireworks explode in the night sky. Yet, if you live for celebration, it can feel like a long, uneventful stretch until Labor Day. If you missed Friendsgiving, no worries: there are still a few more weekends this month to slap together a Christmas in July.  

Food

The perfect dish varies from family to family, but a potluck makes planning easy.

Frills

The details bring the concept of Christmas in July to life:

Fun

There are countless ways to spice up a summer Christmas party:

  • Too early for Christmas music? Never! A microphone with a built-in speaker and YouTube is all you need for a Christmas karaoke party.
  • If you have a sandbox, you might have the kids build and decorate a “sandman” instead. Or you could fill red, white, and green water balloons for a fight. Christmas themed pinatas are always a hit with the kids, too!
  • Organize a “white elephant” gift exchange. Everyone picks a number out of a hat to choose a gift, with an option to steal. For a simple-yet-silly twist, have everyone wrap up a re-gift or something from their home they want to get rid of! Pick up a few items from the dollar store for the kids like a wiffle ball toss game, excavation eggs, chalk, glow-in-the-dark necklaces, or plush toys.
  • Play a game like Santa Cookie Elf Snowman or the 12 Games of Christmas.
  • Put on your favorite Christmas movie. Since the weather is much better than December, you might consider an outdoor movie experience with a projector and inflatable screen.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Why wait until December to make memories that’ll last a lifetime? For more ideas on summer entertaining, contact The Shine Studio. We can bring games, crafts, and activities to entertain the kids at your next party or you can drop in for classes, workshops, and camps all summer long.

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