Enjoy these family events this August in Westchester County, NY. Check specific event information in the event of inclement weather as not all events are rain or shine.

• Ongoing Concert & Entertainment Series:
  • Peekskill Riverfront Summer Series
  • Yorktown Summer Concert Series- Select Sundays
  • Hudson River Museum Amphitheater Events- Music, Dance, Drama, and Magic
  • Summer Second Tuesdays in White Plains
  • Sounds of Summer Concert Series
  • White Plains Summer Concert Series
  • Yorktown Night Market- every Friday and Saturday
  • Friday nights at the Yonkers Waterfront Live Summer Concert Series
  • Rye Twilight Concert Series

Additional Events:

• Ulster County Fair- July 30-August 4
• Entergy Screenings under the Stars (Outdoor Movie Night)- August 2
• Dark Desert Eagles ft. Pat Badger of Extreme- August 2
• Tuck Everlasting- August 2-11
• Muddy Puddles Mess Fest 2019- August 3
• 2019 Hudson Valley Exposition & Fireworks- August 3
• Storytime at new Art Studio- August 4
• Family Gardening Days at Ridge Hill- August 4
• Heritage of India Festival- August 4
• Family Fun Night at the Beach- August 4
• Peekskill Children's Specials- August 5
• Movie Mondays at Ridge Hill! Free films and fun under the stars!- August 5
• Pajama Storytime- August 5
• Rye Children’s Storytimes Programs- August 6
• 2019 Support-A-Walk Kickoff Breakfast- August 7
• KIDS' SUMMER GARDENING WORKSHOPS- August 8
• Summer on the Avenue Block Parties in Mamaroneck- August 8
• Shabbat Shaboom- August 9
• Peekskill Family Movie Night- August 9
• Movies in the Sand at Harbor Island- August 10
• Sunflower Festival- August 10-11, 17-18
• Ivy Global Free Seminar on Getting Into Top Colleges and Emotional Intelligence- August 10
• Music of Phish for Kids ft. Uncle Ebenezer- August 10
• Sunset Yoga in the Parks- August 14
• New York Renaissance Faire- August 17-Sept 6 (weekends)
• Pop Up Roller Skating Rink- August 17-Sept 2
• Back to School Puppet Show- August 17
• Jewish Culture Festival- August 18
• Dutchess County Fair- August 20-25
• Bash the Trash Musical Workshop- August 20
• Muslim Culture Festival- August 25
• 179th Columbia County Fair- August 28-Sept 2
• Back to School Toolkit for High School Students- August 28
• Hartsdale Kiwanis Carnival- August 29-Sept 2
  
• Westchester County Hot Air Balloon Festival & Victory Cup Polo Match- August 30-31
• CORNucopia- August 31-Sept 1

Find a full listing of things to do this weekend, recurring events and other upcoming events on our Community Calendar. Events are free to add so we encourage our readers and local businesses to post great family events.

Written by Donna Fitzgerald

The beginning of the school year is on the horizon, but there’s still plenty of time for teens to enjoy the freedom of summer! That freedom, though, might mean more opportunities for kids to get into trouble. How can we help keep our teens stay safe this summer before the school year starts? Check out these 6 activities near Westchester to help keep your teens occupied and having fun for the rest of the season!
 
Outdoor Adventure Parks
There are tons of outdoor adventure parks fully equipped with zip lines and ropes courses near Westchester. Check out Adventures on Governors Island and the Bronx Zoo’s Treetop Adventure for a seriously awesome experience!
 
Peekskill Family Movie Night
On select Fridays through the first week of September you and your kids can enjoy outdoor movies at Riverfront Green Park! This is the perfect way for you to spend time with your teens, but it’s also a great opportunity for them to hang out with friends in a safe environment.
 
Rock Climbing Gyms
Indoor rock climbing gyms are such a good way for teens to get out of the house, do something a little different than what they would normally do, and get exercise all at the same time. Some gyms have classes as well if your teen is really interested in taking up a new hobby!
 
Yorktown Summer Concert Series
This free summer concert series is an awesome way for your teens to spend their last few Sunday nights of summer. If you’re a music lover too you can always join them at the show for a little extra quality time before they’re back in school for the year. The concerts start at 6pm, so it doesn’t have to be a late night!
 
Pop-Up Roller Skating Rink
Kids of all ages (teens and adults included!) can have such an awesome time rolling skating. It’s a good way to hang out with friends, have fun and stay active all at one time! Tell your teens to check out the new pop-up roller skating rink in the Cross County Shopping Center in Yonkers!
 
Bicycle Sundays
If your teen loves being active, Bicycle Sundays are the perfect way for them to do just that! Through the end of September, a stretch of the Bronx River Parkway is closed to vehicles from 10am until 2pm so that bicyclists, walkers, joggers, and in-line skaters can have the road to themselves. This is one of Westchester’s longest running and most popular recreational programs, so make sure your kids don’t miss out!
 
A Note on Safety
For parents and guardians, the safety of their children is the highest priority. Finding fun and safe activities for them to partake in to help them stay out of trouble is a great idea. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that if your child experiences a personal injury or accident on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for potential medical bills. Don’t hesitate to take action if something does go wrong.

Author Bio:
Donna Fitzgerald is an avid reader and writer. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors journaling, or enjoying time with her two daughters.

The sun is out and it's prime time to play mini golf in Westchester County. Our moms recommend these local spots. Have some classic family fun with an ice cream and a round. On the off months, or on a rainy day, try indoor mini golf.

Coming soon: Monster Mini Golf to Ridge Hill in Yonkers! Fall 2019.

Westchester County Parks has three outdoor 19-hole miniature golf courses:
Playland Park 
1 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 
This miniature golf course is part of Playland Park, right off the boardwalk.  The course is basic, with few bells and whistles. Golf opens and closes about an hour before the park. The view is great! 

Saxon Woods Park
1800 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY
Spend the day at Saxon Woods park! This Westchester County park has an 18-hole golf course, mini golf course, playground the county’s largest swimming pool, aquatic playground and picnic areas.

Brookside Mini Golf at Tibbetts Brook Park
Tibbetts Brook Park, Midland Avenue, Yonkers, NY
Recently renovated, come to Westchester County's Tibbets Brook Park for a round of mini golf at Brookside. Now with challenging new obstacles, state of the art putting greens, reconstructed bridges and landscaping. 

Yorktown Golf & Baseball Center
2710 Lexington Avenue, Mohegan Lake, NY
Experience the 18 hole mini golf course with its picturesque waterfalls and beautiful ponds. Refreshments including soda, ice cream and light snacks are available to eat at picnic tables or shaded tents. While you are there enjoy the batting cages as well!

Red Rooster
1566 Route 22, Brewster, NY (just outside Westchester County)
The retro Brewster drive-in, known for its burgers, shakes and ice cream, was renovated recently and now has a large dining room and outdoor deck. Founded in 1963, it is a great spot to sit outside, eat and enjoy some no-frills miniature golf. Keep an eye out for celebrities if you go: Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon have been spotted there.

Turtle Cove Golf & Baseball
1 City Island Road, Pelham Bay Park, NY (just outside Westchester County)
Just south of Westchester County, our moms recommended this lighted 18 hole mini golf course with obstacles. While you are there you can also enjoy the driving range, golf lessons, batting cages and Park Place Cafe.

FunFuzion
29 LeCount Place, New Rochelle, NY
When the weather does not cooperate, or if you just need a break from the heat, head to FunFuzion. The indoor 18 hole glow golf course features the waters and Jungles of the Yucatan, Mexico. There are a ton of other attractions as well including bowling, laser tag, fun house, ping pong and more.

Music, rides, animals, fireworks, hot air balloons, culture and more are in store for you this summer in and near Westchester County. Some of these family-friendly events are a bit of a drive, but they are worth it! Children can enjoy cotton candy, face painting, the thrill of winning a classic carnival game, live shows, competitions, and many other experiences that we loved when we were a kid (and still do). Don't forget to check the weather as not all events are rain or shine. Enjoy!

For a full listing of upcoming events, or to add one of your own, visit our free  Community Calendar.

Orange County Fair
​Thu Jul 18th - Sun 28th
239 Wisner Ave, Middletown, NY 
For over 100 years, the Orange County Fair has been entertaining families in the Hudson Valley and beyond. Featuring family entertainment, local and national music, racing and auto events, amusement rides, delicious fair food, rides and more. Check out the lion and tiger show.

48th Annual Putnam County 4-H Fair
Fri Jul 26th - Sun 28th 
Putnam County Veteran Memorial Park, 201 Gipsy Trail Rd, Carmel Hamlet, NY
Hello free admission and parking! Animals, country living auction, food, entertainment, games, activities, exhibits, horse show, country pig roast and chicken BBQ, touch a truck and more. This fair is not a carnival with rides. Rain or Shine!

Ulster County Fair
​Tue Jul 30th - Sun Aug 4th 
249 Libertyville Rd, New Paltz, NY
Since 1886, this county fair has been a family event promoting local agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry and good, old-fashioned fun. Admission includes all entertainment, concerts, shows, parking and exhibits. Don't miss the kids daily shows on the small stage. Entertainment includes Amazing Patent Medicine and Magic Show, Robinson’s Racing Pigs, Two by two petting zoo, garden tractor pull, fireworks (Wednesday Evening at Dusk) and more.

Dutchess County Fair​
Tue Aug 20th - Sun 25th 
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6636 U.S. 9, Rhinebeck, NY
This is a big one, hosting approximately half a million people per year, and is the second largest county Fair in New York State. It will feature areas like Agriculture, Horticulture, Turn-of-the-Century Treasures, Working Blacksmith Shop & Gas Powered Engine Show, Pleasant Valley Historic Train Station, rides and much more. And tons of classic carnival food, rides and games.

179th Columbia County Fair
Wed Aug 28th - Mon Sep 2nd 
182 Hudson Ave, Chatham, NY
All of your fair favorites as well as new entertainment including truck pulling, painted pony rodeo, firefighters parade, musical performances and more. Competitions cover a wide range of interests including livestock, talent, beverage making, domestic arts & crafts, antique tractors, quilts, produce, sunflowers, scarecrows, school work, photography, school girl queen, flowers, scouting, wool, watermelon & ice cream eating, 4-H and Grange.

Westchester County Hot Air Balloon Festival & Victory Cup Polo Match
Fri Aug 30th - Sat 31st 
Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Rd, Valhalla, NY
Westchester County's Only Hot Air Balloon Festival & Polo Match. Enjoy seeing the majestic horses,  polo, dozens of food and alcohol partners, and beautiful hot air balloons! The Victory Cup has grown to be one of the largest equestrian events in the United States. Children and pets welcome. Purchase tickets in advance.

Experience an exciting variety of cultures from around the world this summer at Westchester County Parks' Cultural Heritage Celebrations. Festivals will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal so bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn. Remaining festivals for 2019 include:
​
Hispanic Italian Festival
Sun Jul 21st 12:00pm - 7:00pm
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd,, Valhalla, NY

Arab-American Heritage Festival
​Sun Jul 21st 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Ridge Road Park, 287 Ridge Rd, Hartsdale, NY

Irish-American Heritage Festival
Sun Jul 28th 1:00pm - 5:30pm
Ridge Road Park, 287 Ridge Rd, Hartsdale, NY
​
Heritage of India Festival
Sun Aug 4th 12:30pm - 6:30pm
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd,, Valhalla, NY

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Italian Feast
Wed Jul 17th - Sun 21st 
155 Highland Ave, Verplanck, NY
The longest running Italian Feast in the Hudson Valley, features nightly music, carnival rides and games and craft and retail vendors. And of course, delicious Italian food including pizza, pasta, cannoli, zeppole, and their famous sausage & pepper wedges.

4th Annual Tiki Invasion Luau & Outdoor Movie at Harbor Island Park
Fri Jul 26th 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Harbor Island Park, 60-98 Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, NY
Live band, food trucks, fire dancers, and an outdoor screening of "Finding Nemo" at Mamaroneck's beautiful waterfront Harbor Island Park. This is a family friendly event. Free and open to the public. 

Peekskill Summer Sounds Festival 2019
Sat Jul 27th 2:00pm - 10:00pm
Downtown Peekskill
Peekskill’s inaugural Summer Sounds will be one of the Hudson Valley’s premiere summer musical and creative events. It is expected that thousands of people from the tri-state area will attend this free, open-air concert on the streets of historic downtown Peekskill. 

Muddy Puddles Mess Fest 2019
Sat Aug 3rd 11:00am - 4:00pm
Kiwi Country Day Camp, Union Valley Rd, Carmel Hamlet, NY
Ty Campbell dreamed of jumping in muddy muddles when his cancer was cured, but he never got the chance. In his memory, his parents launched the Muddy Puddles Project to benefit the Ty Louis Campbell Foundation for childhood cancer research. The Mess Fest is a HUGE, fun-filled, annual event that includes all the messy stuff kids love: giant mud pit, ‘slopstacle’ course, pie toss, food fights, splatter paint, beauty tent, swimming/zip lining, water balloons, slime time, climbing walls, paddle boats, water slide, magic shows, laser tag, bounce houses, music, VIP tent for families impacted by cancer. Meet Peppa Pig and brother George.

Sunflower Festival
Sat Aug 10, Sun Aug 11 and  Sat Aug 17, Sun Aug 18
Barton Orchards, 63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY
Barton Orchards is hosting their first ever Sunflower Festival. They planted 5-acres of sunflowers, consisting of classic yellow sunflowers that will mature to about 5 feet tall, as well as many different varieties. The festival will be an opportunity to relax, get a bite to eat, and enjoy a glass of wine while listening to live music surrounded by our beautiful sunflowers.

New York Renaissance Faire
Sat Aug 17th - Fri Sep 6th 
The New York Renaissance Faire, 600 NY-17A, Tuxedo Park, NY
2019 marks the 42nd Anniversary Celebration of the New York Renaissance Faire. Like nothing else on this list, you get to travel back in time to an age of adventure. Join Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth I on a grand visit to a beautiful 16th century English village. Cheer your favorite knight at the Joust Tournament. Meet Robin Hood and his Merry Band. See amazing acrobats, magical fairies, swashbuckling pirates, and more.

HAPPY SUMMER!

Rock out this Independence Day with these July 4th celebrations in Westchester County, NY. Enjoy spectacular fireworks displays, live music and delicious food, sure to please your entire family.  In the event of rain, check local listings as some may be rescheduled. For additional upcoming events, visit our Community Calendar.

Wishing all of our readers a Happy July 4th!
​

July 2nd
White Plains Fireworks & Independence Day Celebration Featuring the Doobie Others
White Plains High School, 550 North St, White Plains, NY, 6pm
Starting at 6:00pm, a wide variety of entertainment includes a performance by The Doobie Others, the Animal Embassy, the Bubble Bus, Science Tellers, inflatable rides, food, fireworks and more. Fireworks will begin at approximately 9:20 pm.

Scarsdale Fireworks & Westchester Band
Scarsdale Pool, 311 Mamaroneck Rd, Scarsdale, NY, 7:30pm
The annual firework display will be held around 9:15pm and includes a performance from the Westchester Band at 7:30pm. 
​

July 3rd
Kensico Dam Music Fest and Fireworks
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd,, Valhalla, NY, 6pm
Entertainment starts at 6:00pm, followed by a concert of patriotic music at 8:00pm., and fireworks at 9:15pm. Admission and parking free. Arrive early to secure a space and be sure to bring chairs or blankets for seating and snacks.

Cross County Shopping Center Fireworks & Concert
Cross County Shopping, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY, 6:30pm
Enjoy a festive fireworks show and concert with the NYC PARTY BAND, taking place on The Green lawn, in the center of the mall from 6:30pm to 9pm. The fireworks will be displayed in the north parking lot, the side of the mall that faces the Cross County Parkway, behind Shake Shack. Fireworks begin at 9pm. If there is severe weather, the event will be re-scheduled for July 5th. 

Ossining Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks
Louis Engel Waterfront Park, 25 Westerly Rd, Ossining, NY, 7pm
Enjoy music starting at 7pm followed by fireworks beginning around 9:15pm. Rain date: July 8.

Harrison Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks
Harrison Shopping Center, Oakland and Halstead Avenues, Harrison, NY, 7:45pm
Beginning at 7:45pm, Downtown Harrison will be enjoying the music of the band Rock Steady followed by fireworks which will begin promptly at 9:15pm.

​July 4th
Dobbs Ferry 4th of July Picnic In the Park & Fireworks
Waterfront Park, Dobbs Ferry, NY, 3pm
Starting at 3:00pm, children and families can enjoy a bounce house, water slide and petting zoo . Fireworks start shortly after 9pm. Music by Rooney Tunes entertainment.

Downtown Peekskill Summer Music Series & July 4th Concert & Fireworks
Riverfront Green Park, Peekskill, NY, 7pm
Peekskill's annual summer concert series  continues on July 4th followed by fireworks that will start at about 9:15 pm.

Tarrytown 4th of July Fireworks
Pierson Park, 238 W Main St, Tarrytown, NY, 7pm
Enjoy a 7:00pm concert featuring "Kick-Start" followed by the annual fireworks display, which will begin around 9pm at the beautiful Pierson Park on the river.

Downtown Yonkers 4th of July Fireworks Display & Music
​Yonkers Downtown Waterfront, 15 Main St, Yonkers, NY, 7pm
Head to the Yonkers Downtown Waterfront at 7pm to enjoy a live DJ followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the majestic Hudson River. Fireworks begin around 9:15pm.

Mamaroneck July Concert & Fireworks
Harbor Island Park, 60-98 Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, NY
Enjoy the St Thomas Orchestra, who will perform a classical concert beginning at 8:00pm at Harbor Island Park along Long Island Sound. Fireworks will immediately follow. Rain date: July 5th.

Pops, Patriots and Fireworks Independence Day Celebration
Ventian Theater, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY
This is ticketed event from Caramoor. The Westchester Symphonic Winds perform a selection of music that pays tribute to America’s independence, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Purchase tickets in advance. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be held as planned on Thursday, July 4 and fireworks will be held at 9:00pm Sunday, July 7.

Irvington Fireworks
Matthiessen Park, 1 Bridge St, Irvington, NY, 9pm
The Village of Irvington  will hold their annual fireworks around 9pm. Parking will be extremely limited.  

Sleepy Hollow Fireworks
Edge of Hudson River, Sleepy Holly, NY, 9:15pm
​Fireworks will begin at dusk, around 9:15-9:30pm., at the Edge on Hudson near the lighthouse. Suggested viewing locations include Kingsland Point Park, Barnhart Park, Devries Park and Horans Landing.

"Spark the Sound," Fireworks at the New Rochelle Waterfront
New Rochelle Waterfront, New Rochelle, NY, 9:30pm
Watch the grand fireworks display at the New Rochelle waterfront at the annual “Spark the Sound” extravaganza. The show begins at 9:30pm, rain or shine. Ideal viewing locations are Hudson Park, Five Islands Park, and waterfront restaurants.

Playland Fireworks (also on July 5th)
Playland, 1 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY
Head to Playland Park along Long Island Sound to watch the sky light up with a dazzling display of color and glittering explosions, all set to heart pounding music. Cost is $30.

Sponsored Post, Written by F. Tony Di Giacomo

One of the most challenging things that happens on a student’s journey from middle school to high school is based in psychology: as humans, we begin to seek approval from people beyond our parents such as friends in school. Status becomes complicated, and we start to feel pulled in different directions. As students, the ways you studied and approached school up until now, whether now means 9th grade, 10th, or 11th, may not get the same results as before. Or, just maybe, there were patterns in mindset, studying, grades, or test scores that go back many years, but many people tend to focus on what happens in high school as what is most important.

Students, whether you want to hear it or not, your parents are often right in their observations in terms of your study habits, attitude, or mindset. Remember, your parents have a tough job: they are solely responsible for your well-being and in helping you become the best version of yourself — this is the most rewarding and most challenging job on the planet! Yours is tough, too, because while you must honor your parents, you have to become increasingly independent, make your own choices, and sometimes those choices may contradict your parent’s goals or wishes.
​
Here are 8 suggestions to reset your relationship as you move into and through high school:

1. Great expectations: Set clear expectations for grades that are based on precedent, quarter by quarter, so that your “team” knows what is expected.
2. Meet weekly: Besides any daily dialogue, meet once per week with the sole purpose of reviewing the week’s assignments and schedule upcoming assignments.
3. Know your roles: Students, your job is to honor your parents and your well being by working hard to be your best, to focus on your studies, to do well. Parents, your job beyond caretaker is to identify necessary resources to help your child succeed, and never falter on proactively solving problems you see.  
4. Advocate: Parents, when necessary, advocate for your child at school, not to get a grade that is not warranted, but for one that is, or for when you are not experiencing a responsible counselor or teacher to help your child succeed.
5. No surprises: Students, share your successes and your struggles, your A’s and your D’s as they come in so that you can, together and without judgment, figure out what to do.
6. Support: Parents, using judgmental words like “lazy,” comparing sibling against sibling, or telling autobiographical stories about your youth tend to be counterproductive. Focus on supporting positive study habits, clear goals, and help manage distractions while incentivizing positive changes. This is the most effective way to get results.
7. Be open: Students, the more you close off your parents, the more every tiny detail of your life will be analyzed, scrutinized, whether understood or not: Why? As parents, we have been caring for our children with more energy, love, time, and compassion than you can fathom at this point in your life, and you are preparing to soon go off to college and be independent. Share more, and you will find your parents are less concerned and will not let their imaginations lead them astray!
8. Family time: Set aside time to just live, and enjoy each other without focusing on school, lessons, or lectures. Recharge, and reset.

Written by F. Tony Di Giacomo, lifelong educator and founder of Novella Prep, an education company providing study skills and college planning to help families and students improve academic outcomes and support college planning for students in grades 6-12. He has 20 years of experience working in admissions, development, teaching, and research at various universities. Prior to launching Novella Prep, Tony worked at the College Board, where he led and managed research on the SAT, PSAT, AP, and other programs. You can reach him at tony@novellaprep.com, watch helpful Youtube videos with tips and strategies, follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Written by Donna Fitzgerald

​Every mother will agree that raising children is one of life’s biggest rewards and also one of the biggest challenges. When your child is an infant or preschool-aged, it’s likely that you’re the number one decision maker and have control over their lives. As our children get older, we want them to start to show independence and the ability to make decisions, but naturally, this is one of the many bittersweet things about parenting.
 
Whether your first grader is heading to their first sleep-over or your middle-schooler starts getting rides to and from school with a friend’s older sibling, it’s never too early (or late) to talk about safety and how to make smart choices. Here are some things to consider!

Using Seat Belts for a Lifetime 
It probably comes as no surprise that seat belts are still one of the most effective ways to prevent an injury and survive a car accident but according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 47% of car accident deaths in 2017 involved unrestrained drivers and passengers.
 
When your child graduates out of a booster seat, it’s important that they continue to buckle up regardless of who’s car they’re riding in. While it might seem weird that there are still people who don’t wear seat belts, your child may be influenced by their peers to skip the seat belt. Remind your teen that even vehicles with airbags require the use of a seat belt.

Be Alert as a Pedestrian 
According to the most recent data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in 2016, one in every five children under 15 years old (who were killed in traffic accidents) were pedestrians.
 
Children are particularly vulnerable pedestrians because they are often too busy talking with friends, walking and looking at a mobile device, or are just unaware of their surroundings. Many children assume that drivers will see them crossing the street or walking along the curb in a quiet neighborhood, but that’s not always the case.
 
Stress the importance of looking both ways before crossing a street and making eye contact with a driver. Encourage your child to stay out of the street whenever possible and always to stay off their smartphone or mobile device every time they walk across an intersection.

Interacting With Dogs and Other Animals  
It’s not uncommon of all ages to be animal lovers or come across dogs and other animals while playing outside or at a friend’s house. The CDC reports that there are approximately 2,400 dog attacks every day, and more than 50 percent of all bites happen to children. 
 
While many people assume that dog bites come from a strange dog, over 75 percent of dog bites come from a dog the child knows. Teach your child how to interact with dogs safely and that they should always ask to pet a dog or other animals.

Other Things To Discuss 
Every parent has a different plan for talking to kids about safety, making smart choices, and ways to avoid injuries, but here are a few more topics to consider.

• Alcohol and drug use
• Gun safety
• Strangers
• Handling harassment or bullies
• Wearing safety equipment during sports

 
Thinking about your child’s safety can be overwhelming, and it can be challenging to know what to talk about and when to do it, but keep in mind that it’s never too late (or too early) to discuss safety.

 Author Bio:
Donna Fitzgerald is an avid reader and writer. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors journaling, or enjoying time with her two daughters.

Movies under the stars are a summer tradition here in Westchester. Bring a blanket, lawn chair,  some snacks and enjoy the show. Best of all these are free!  Some include additional entertainment prior so it is a great way to make an evening of it. Don't forget the popcorn!
​

Outdoor Movie Night at John Jay Homestead- The Princess Bride
John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St, Katonah, NY
 Fri Jun 21st 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Food, wine, beer, and music begin at 7:00. Movie begins at 8:30.

Outdoor Movies in the Park- Larchmont
Memorial Park, 61 Murray Ave, Larchmont, NY

• May 17 - 101 Dalmatians (rain date: May 31)
• June 21 - Freaky Friday (rain date: June 28)
• July 26 - Hotel Transylvania 3 (rain date: August 2)
• September 6 - North by Northwest (rain date: September 13)

Movies start at dusk.

Movies in the Sand at Harbor Island
Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, NY
Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and snacks for a night of movie magic under the stars. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 

• Fri, Jane 14- Minions
• Fri, July 26- Finding Nemo (part of the Tiki Invasion event)
• Sat, August 10- Spiderman
• Sat, Sept 14- Incredibles 2

In the event of inclement weather please call the Village of Mamaroneck Recreation department.

Sunset Market- Family Fun & Food Festival and Outdoor Movie Night- Avengers Infinity War
Jefferson Valley Mall, 650 Lee Blvd, Yorktown Heights, NY
Thu Jun 27th 5:00pm - 11:00pm
Entertainment begins at 5:00PM and includes Food Trucks, Farmers Market, Beer Garden, Live Music, Kids Fun Action Area and Various Vendors. The Outdoor Movie, Avengers Infinity War, starts at 8:45PM.

Peekskill Family Movie Nights- select Fridays
Riverfront Green Park, Riverfront Green Park, Peekskill, NY

• June 29 - Mary Poppins Returns 
• July 19 - Spiderman Into the Spiderverse 
• August 9 - House With a Clock in the Wall 
• September 6 - Akeelah and the Bee 

In the event of rain the movie will be rescheduled.

Neighborhood Nights in White Plains- Movies, Music, Magic & More
Various locations

• July 16- Small Foot at 8:15PM, Druss Park, So Lexington Ave, White Plains
• July 17- Small Foot at 8:15PM, Turner Park, So Lake St, White Plains
• July 19- Trolls at 8:15PM, Chatterton Park, Chatterton Ave, White Plains
• July 22- Trolls at 8:15PM, Mattison Park, White Plains
• July 25, Space Jam at 8:00PM, Gardella Park, Ferris Ave, White Plains

Movie Mondays at Ridge Hill
​Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

• July 8 – The Lego Movie 2 
• July 15 – Mary Poppins Returns
• July 22 – The Incredibles 2
• July 29 - Ralph Breaks the Internet 
• August 5 - Spiderman: Into the Spider-Verse 

Activities start at 7:00PM and movies begin at sunset.

Movie Night Under the Stars at Andrus on Hudson- E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial
185 Old Broadway, Hastings-On-Hudson, NY
Wed Jul 10th 6:00pm - 11:00pm, Rain date: Wed July 17
Includes a pre-film picnic, featuring three food trucks and assorted kids' activities. 

• 6:00-8:30PM - Picnic (food available for purchase or B.Y.O.), face painting, games, and more
• 8:30PM - Movie

​
Entergy Screenings under the Stars
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd,, Valhalla, NY

• Fri Jul 12th- Hotel Transylvania 3
• Fri, August 2- How to Train Your Dragon 3: The Hidden World

Entertainment begins at 6:00PM and the film starts at sundown. In the event of rain, the movie will be canceled.

Outdoor Family Magic Show And Outdoor Movie in Rye
Rye Town Park And Beach, 95 Dearborn Ave, Rye, NY
Wed Jul 17th 
The family-oriented magic show will start at 7:00PM and run about 45 minutes. The outdoor movie has not been decided yet - stay tuned!

Screening Under the Stars: Yorktown's Outdoor Movie Night & DJ Dance Party
Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Park Gazebo, Veterans Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY
The Town of Yorktown will host its annual Outdoor Movie at the John “Jack” DeVito Gazebo. Movie begins at sunset. DJ Dance party begins at 7PM.

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​Written by F. Tony Di Giacomo, a lifelong educator and founder of Novella Prep

The road to college is an enduring theme that helps parents and students conceive of the steps toward college (and life) being akin to a road with waypoints along the way. They key to success is knowing which are the waypoints, when parents and students have the ability to go left or right, and knowing what that means. The greatest excellence comes from the aggregate of many small mindful decisions over time, leading to a better informed, better prepared, and thoughtful student.In the following post, you can explore some of the essential steps to consider:

We have more information than ever at our fingertips and understand so much about this world, and yet being a successful student is still challenging and puzzling. For middle school and high school students, parents, and educators, this column will provide you with answers and clarity on what it means to be a successful student today as you navigate The Road to College. 

As parents, we want the best for our children and often equate academic success with setting the foundation for our child’s potential to build toward a successful and fulfilling career. However, many parents may not realize the college-related choices a high school senior has extend far back – sometimes to decisions made many years prior (7th grade!) – ranging from how they study to the rigor of their coursework and the career track they are potentially pursuing. 

The goal of this information is to supplement what the school, community, and family already teach and value, and to help readers gain perspectives, information, and knowledge to help students plan the year, the quarter, and the day. With current industry knowledge and research, readers will have the ability to help students get or stay on a path toward better grades (study skills and course selection), increased test scores (which to take, when to take, and ways to prepare), and preparation for identifying and applying to best-fitting colleges (with a holistic approach considering the whole student). That is, to consider all the factors that matter, from emotional and physical health to trends in admissions or changes in testing, as well as what colleges want and how to channel hard to work to get the best results. 

We know from research that early college planning, when done right, has very powerful and positive results for students. Initially, some students may feel that the thought of college triggers stress, and often the desire is to push starting the process to the spring of junior year. Frequently, adults in students’ lives follow suit. By junior year, however, there is little time for a true exploration of what one may wish to consider as a career path, let alone obtain enough information to choose a major. This could lead to a critical misstep that could adversely affect the prospective college list or later increase the chance of changing majors or transferring schools. Studies conducted by American Institute of Research, a leading education research organization, as well as NYU Steinhardt School of Education, have found early engagement in the college planning process leads to a very positive outcome for most students. Plus, with the high cost of college and importance of graduating in four years, considering a holistic approach to planning can help students connect interests, talents, and skills to the consideration of career paths as a way of identifying the right major and college list. This type of preparation often leads to students’ changing their major in college at a lower rate than the national average of 30%.  

The Road to College can be fun and empowering to students and families, and can cultivate character when done right. This column aims to support that spirit along the way, embracing the path toward the destination as a teachable experience of growth. 

Written by F. Tony Di Giacomo, adapted from his blog on RiverJournal.com. Dr. Di Giacomo is a lifelong educator and founder of Novella Prep, an education company providing study skills and college planning to help families and students improve academic outcomes and support college planning for students in grades 6-12. He has 20 years of experience working in admissions, development, teaching, and research at various universities. Prior to launching Novella Prep, Tony worked at the College Board, where he led and managed research on the SAT, PSAT, AP, and other programs. You can reach him at tony@novellaprep.com, watch helpful Youtube videos with tips and strategies, follow on Facebook and Instagram.

By Joanna Winograd and Lauren Lappen; Co-Founders of Wee Sleep Solutions

If you’re having a hard time figuring out the optimal times that your baby should be going down for sleep you are not alone!  As pediatric sleep specialists, we often see parents struggling to find their baby’s natural sleep window.  
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Place your baby down to sleep when they are tired, but not yet overtired, a.k.a. the magic sleep window.   It should be simple, right?  We know it’s not always as easy as it sounds!  Below are some helpful hints at making this task easier!  

We recommend using wakeful periods based on your baby’s age as a guide for determining when your little one needs sleep.  Wakeful periods refer to the average amount of time your child can stay awake before becoming overtired.  Knowing those average times will make your lives much easier! A baby whose awake time is limited to an age appropriate length will be able to settle and drift off to sleep more easily, and will stay asleep longer, than a baby who has been awake and stimulated for too long a time.  

Typically, a newborn can only comfortably stay awake for 45 minutes to 1 hour before needing her next nap.  As a baby gets older that wakeful period will slowly stretch and by 4 months most children will be able to happily keep their eyes open for up to 1.5-2 hours.  By 6 months, usually 2-2.5 hours can be comfortably tolerated, and a slightly older baby may be able to stay awake and happy for up to 3-4 hours.
   
It is equally important to learn your little ones’ tired cues, which can include yawning, looking less alert, pulling his ears and rubbing his eyes. Watch your baby carefully and if you notice any tired cues (even prior to the end of their optimal wake window), begin a brief soothing routine and place him down for sleep.  The opposite is also true.  If the optimal awake time has passed, but you haven’t yet noticed any tired signs, you should still begin your soothing routine and place your baby down for sleep.  Some little ones are very good at hiding tired signals so be mindful of your baby’s wake time and put him down even if he seems ready to party!

Why is it so important to identify this magic window of time?  If your baby has been awake for too long he will become overtired, which means his brain has signaled for the release of cortisol, a.k.a the wakeful hormone.  An overtired baby will either be fussy and irritable, or will appear wide-awake and wired.  Either way, placing your baby down for sleep once they have already reached an overtired state will result in difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.  If you are able to identify your baby’s correct sleep window (by using the clock and sleepy cues as a guide) he will settle more easily and sleep more soundly.  The result: a happier, well-rested baby and family.

Lauren Lappen is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!