Did you know The United States Tennis Association is headquartered in White Plains? Yeah, tennis is kind of a big deal here. Many children and adults enjoy the game and why not. Tennis has so many benefits. 

Tennis is an excellent source of exercise to help children stay fit and maintain an active lifestyle. It provides plenty of activity and can improve muscle tone, strength and flexibility. Playing tennis strengthens children's bones and has been proven to help prevent osteoporosis later on in life. Plus developmentally it helps kids develop hand eye coordination, agility, balance, strength and both fine and gross motor coordination.

Tennis provides a great social opportunity for young athletes. Group lessons, clinics, camps and matches all are great ways for kids to connect with other kids. Playing and learning tennis will give kids a first-hand experience to learn the value of good sportsmanship, teamwork, and camaraderie.

Another nice thing about tennis is that there is not a ton of equipment required to get started— just grab a racquet and a ball and you're ready to go. Tennis is easy to enjoy. 

Last but not least, tennis is not a high contact sport which has a few benefits of its own. First, there is a low risk of injury. Second, because tennis does not require any direct person-to-person contact it is easy to socially distance—  a critical must-have as we continue to find safe ways to stay healthy and have fun during the pandemic. In fact, tennis is considered a low-risk sport overall... especially when played outdoors. 
​
There are a number of local tennis facilities where children can learn to play tennis, improve their game and master their skills through competition. There is no shortage of group classes, camps and tennis programs for children in Westchester County— check out our list below.

Armonk Tennis Club
546 Bedford Rd, Armonk, NY

The Junior Tennis Academy at the Armonk Tennis Club offers programs for all ages and skill levels. For dedicated, high-level players there is an intensive program that allows them to set and attain individual goals. The AITA summer program consists of Advanced and Junior Camps so that elite and casual players alike can reach their tennis goals. They also offer Camp Armonk, a premier sports and enrichment experience for children entering kindergarten through 5th grade. 


Chestnut Ridge Racquet Club
30 Snyders Hill Rd, Mount Kisco, NY

The CRRC offers a variety of programs including Junior Groups, Tournament Training, Summer Camp, Match Play and Private Lessons. Their pros are certified and have a world class background in playing and teaching tennis. CRRC's Junior Summer Tennis Camp  provides intensive training for the serious junior player who is regularly competing in tournaments and matches.


Club Fit Briarcliff
584 North State Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY
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Club Fit has a number  of Junior Development Tennis Programs serving kids ages 3-18. They also offer a Junior Ladder program, Kids Play Days and a Tournament Training Elite Program. In addition there is a Summer Tennis Camp for all levels aimed to provide a comprehensive, solid foundation of tennis knowledge. Emphasis is placed on stroke-production, tactics and strategies during match-play. 


Club Fit Jefferson Valley
600 Bank Road, Jefferson Valley, NY

Club Fit offers programs for all ages and skill levels with their goal being for each student to have fun and enjoy being on the court while learning and developing their game. In addition they have Junior Ladder Match Play, QuickStart 10&Under, Varsity & Junior Varsity, Junior Competitive Programs – 10 & Under, 12 & Under and 14 & Under and Private & Semi-Private Lessons. Their Summer Camp lets you choose from choose daily, weekly or a full 9-weeks. The tennis camp is run and taught by certified and experienced tennis staff. Emphasis is placed on stroke-production, technique, tactics and strategies during match-play. All levels are welcome from the beginner to the advanced.


College Racquet Club at Concordia
171 White Plains Rd, Bronxville, NY

Clinics for juniors (kids through high school) are available throughout the year. Their 10 and under program follows USTA designed red, orange and green ball play. They also offer a Competitive Ladder Pathway for older and competitive juniors ranging from beginner to advanced. Private lessons are available as well. While they do not have a summer camp they do offer individual and family memberships for the summer months. 


Grand Slam: An Ivan Lendl Tennis Center
​One Bedford-Banksville Road, Bedford, NY

Grand Slam Tennis Club features a wide variety of junior tennis programs including their exclusive IGNiTE Junior 10 and Under Tennis Program for children. Their programs are great for beginners through experienced players of all ages. Their Tennis Whizz program is for children ages 3-5 learning basic tennis for toddlers including motor skills development and tons of fun. Junior development programs are taught using the "Hitting Hot" tennis system founded by tennis champion Ivan Lendl.


Greenburgh Indoor Tennis
600 Dobbs Ferry Rd, White Plains, NY

Their highly regarded Junior programs runs for a 31-week season from September to May. Registration is ongoing. Classes will be prorated if you join after the session has started. Programs are for children ages 5-18. Children will be evaluated and placed in a class based on age and skill level.

Life Time Fitness
480 N Bedford Rd, Chappaqua, NY
1 Westchester Park Dr, West Harrison, NY 

Life Time’s SMART tennis matches your child’s development with appropriately sized balls, racquets and court sizes. Using world-class teaching techniques, SMART allows the sport of tennis to grow with your child. Kids start playing with other kids right away, learning as they go. New SMART sessions begin every three months. Winter session starts in January, Spring in March/April, Summer in May/June and Fall starts in August/September.  Open to non-members.

​
New Rochelle Tennis Club
114 Valley Rd, New Rochelle, NY

The New Rochelle Tennis Club is situated on two acres in Wykagyl Park in New Rochelle and includes eight well-maintained outdoor har-tru courts open May through November. Membership is not required to book a lesson. Their Summer Tennis Camp is an eight week program (select the weeks you like) for kids ages 12-18. In addition they offer LittleTennisLand, a program designed for the 10 and Under players to introduce them the tennis fundamentals, the grip, swing, and stance.


​Old Oaks Country Club
3100 Purchase St, Purchase, NY

Open to non-members, the Old Oaks tennis program includes dynamic and fun programs for younger children eager to learn how to play tennis, as well as programs geared for older youth players who are interested in further developing their game. Their instructors are specifically trained to work with children and teens to make learning the game of tennis fun and engaging. Facilities include 9 Har-Tru tennis courts with 4 courts under 2 'bubbles' for winter play.


​Pinebrook Fitness /  The New Rochelle Racquet Club
130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle, NY

The club's Junior Development Programs is a blocked program consisting of multiple courts with three levels: Red Ball, Orange Ball, or Green Ball. This program is designed to challenge kid's skills and work on problem solving; a segue to their Tournament Training Program (TTP). They also offer a variety of tennis camps throughout the year including Vacation Mini-Camps and Summer Camp, which runs June through August. There are age appropriate games and activities for all ages and skill levels divided into three separate camps.


Pleasantville Tennis Club
57 Willow Street, Pleasantville,  NY

Founded in 1916, PTC is a club for tennis enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. PTC is a small, not-for-profit, member-supported, private outdoor tennis club located in historic Pleasantville, NY. The Club welcomes new members – families, women, men, juniors and seniors of all ability levels. Technique, singles, and doubles strategy, scoring, match play, sportsmanship and fitness will be covered in their Spring Junior Program that lasts nine weeks. Summer program details have not been announced yet.

Premier Athletic Club
2127 Albany Post Rd, Montrose, NY

Children of all ages – from beginner’s level to advanced – can participate in the tennis camps at the club. Grouped by age and ability, children will learn basic tennis skills, tennis etiquette and tournament training. Programs are open to non-members. Their Summer Tennis Camp is open to the public and lasts seven-weeks.  Open to children ages 6 to 14, Monday thru  Friday, 9am – 3pm with early drop off and after camp services for additional fee.

Rye Racquet Club
3 South Rd, Harrison, NY

RRC offers a range of tennis programs. Children 12 and under can participate in Red, Orange and Green Ball programs. Children ages 11 and up can join the Junior Development programs. The JG Development program is a high-performance program which has opened up new opportunities for the most competitive junior tennis players in the Tri-State area. The Head Coach and Director of the program, Johnny Gularte, has a proven record of helping young players raise their game to achieve their goals. His successful training system has resulted in student-athletes obtaining scholarships to universities across the US.​ They also offer summer programming for ages 4-18 that is half day and runs as weekly sessions June 28 through August 27.


Saw Mill Club
77 Kensico Dr, Mount Kisco, NY

Saw Mill Club offers numerous children’s tennis programs for tots through teens. Programs include 10 and Under Tennis, Junior Training, EDGE Prep Tennis and EDGE Tennis. They will also offer Summer Camp for kids ages 4 and up. All children's programming is open to non-members.


SPORTIME Harbor Island
W Boston Post Rd, Mamaroneck, NY 

SPORTIME Harbor Island is located in beautiful Harbor Island Park in the Village of Mamaroneck and features 8 beautifully maintained indoor/outdoor red clay courts that are covered by a "bubble" during the indoor season, from late mid September through mid May. The clubhouse includes a lounge, pro shop and full locker room facilities. Programs are for children ages 3 and up. Membership is required to participate in SPORTIME/JMTA program series. They will be offering camp this summer in ten, full-week sessions. Campers will be required to enroll in a minimum of one, full-week session.  There will be half day AM and PM  options for camp as well as extended AM and PM options. They also offer birthday parties.


SPORTIME Lake Isle
660 White Plains Rd, Eastchester, NY

SPORTIME Lake Isle is lower Westchester's premier tennis destination and home to the John McEnroe Tennis Academy. Lake Isle features 8 indoor har-tru (green synthetic clay) tennis courts under 3 state-of-the-art air structures and a 5,000 square foot clubhouse on two levels with superior viewing. Programs are for children ages 3 and up. Membership is required to participate in SPORTIME/JMTA program series. They will be offering camp this summer in ten, full-week sessions. Campers will be required to enroll in a minimum of one, full-week session.  There will be half day AM and PM  options for camp as well as extended AM and PM options. They also offer birthday parties.

 
Tennis Innovators Academy
Delfino Park, 110 Lake St, White Plains, NY

The goal of the 10U & Junior Academy at TIA Westchester, is to modify the court, balls, racket, and net to the size and strength level of the players 10 and under. For players, ages 8-12, an evaluation is required to ensure proper placement in the Junior Academy program. There is also a Summer Camp that will run for 10 weeks with customized summer curriculums for all ages (4 and up) and levels of ability. Sessions are two hours during weekdays with matches on weekends.


Tennis Club of Hastings
100 River St, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

The curriculum at Tennis Club of Hastings–a combination of well-crafted progressions and stimulating exercises–has been designed by USPTA, PTR, and former touring professionals. Their methodical approach ensures that every child learns the fundamentals and more in an encouraging, nurturing, and fun environment. Developmental programs begin at age 3 and go up to age 18.

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The Play Place
11 Clearbrook Rd, Elmsford, NY

The Play Place aims to introduce young children to the excitement and fun of tennis. They offer 10 and Under Tennis, which is an exciting new play format for learning tennis, designed to bring kids into the game by utilizing specialized equipment, shorter court dimensions and modified scoring, all tailored to age and size. It’s the fast, fun way to get kids into tennis– and keep them playing. This enables kids to practice and play real tennis and allows them to have fun and learn at the same time. Most importantly to fall in love with tennis! They offer a Kids Multi-Sport & Dance Summer Camp that runs weekly for kids ages 4 and up and includes tennis.


Yonkers Tennis  Center
493 Sprain Rd, Yonkers, NY

Enjoy weekly clinics at YTC using USTA's Net Generation curriculum. Juniors are grouped into 4:1 max ratio with a coach to learn the game of tennis in a clean, social, safe, and dynamic atmosphere. Their goal is to help kids learn tennis through a variety of fun skill-building activities with the use of red, orange, green low compression balls and yellow balls. They also offer private lessons and Junior Match Play.

In addition to the above dedicated tennis facilities and clubs there are a number of other local places to play and learn tennis. Many independent tennis instructors would be willing to meet you at public facilities for a lesson.

• County, Town or Village Parks- Check with your local town or village recreation department to see if there are tennis courts that are open for use and/or if there are any instructional programs available. 
  
  
• Schools- Many local public and private schools have outdoor tennis courts available for families.
  
  
• Camps- There are a number of day camps that offer tennis as one of their activities. Check out this list of county favorites.
  
  
• Swim, Tennis & Country Clubs- During the spring and summer many seasonal swim and country clubs have tennis courts available for use. Some offer camps and lessons as well. Membership is typically required to access these courts.

Did we miss any? Share your favorite tennis courts in the comments below.

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​As we make our way through another snowy day, the thought of summer is a welcome distraction. Yesterday we received some good news for summer planning. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that day and overnight summer camps in New York State can begin to plan for reopening!

The green light to open camps is a huge sigh of relief for many parents who have children who attend, or plan to attend, sleep away camps in New York State. Last summer sleep away camps did open successfully in other states but New York did not allow it. However, many day camps did open safely in New York last summer thanks to strict health and safety measures like masks, temperature checks, distancing, elimination of busing and pods/cohorts.

Many parents are eager to send their kids to camp this summer because it will provide them with some much needed activity, independence, socialization, fresh air and fun! The pandemic has been crushing to everyone and camp is a great step in bringing some normalcy and happiness to our children... and some much needed free time and uninterrupted work time to parents. 

​What's next? The Department of Health will issue specific reopening guidance, including details on timing, in the coming weeks.

CHECK OUT THE BEST DAY CAMPS IN WESTCHESTER

Also announced yesterday, indoor family entertainment centers and places of amusement can open with a 25 percent capacity limit beginning Friday, March 26. This is good news for indoor water parks and other attractions/recreation businesses like The Kartrite in Monticello and Legoland Discovery Center in Yonkers, which have remained closed over the course of the pandemic. Their websites do not contain reopening details yet but it is anticipated that will be coming soon based on this announcement!

CHECK OUT INDOOR PLAY & ADVENTURE CENTERS- WHAT'S OPEN & WHAT'S NOT

Lastly, the governor stated that outdoor amusement parks can open with a 33 percent capacity limit beginning Friday, April 9. Other states did allow these to open last summer but not New York, so this is a welcome change. Businesses like Rye's Playland Park and Splashdown Beach in Fishkill, NY never opened their doors last summer.

Of course there is some uncertainty and concern with reopening while COVID-19 cases are still present. While these attractions can be good for our mental health, they are sure to bring people together, which is how the virus spreads. While some people have been fortunate enough to be vaccinated, more research is needed to determine if you can still be contagious after being vaccinated. So for now it is critical that we stay vigilant about social distancing and mask wearing.

Something else to keep in mind is that the CDC says that indoor spaces are more risky than outdoor spaces because it might be harder to keep people apart and there’s less ventilation indoors. So we can take comfort in choosing outdoor experiences over indoor ones for now.

What's next? The governor is requiring that all facilities submit reopening plans with health protocols to the local health department. Masks and social distancing will be required for all customers and staff, and customers will be required to have a health screening with temperature checks prior to entry.

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Enjoy the latest releases and classic bring backs at Showcase Cinema de Lux, now operating under its new Be Showcase Safe health and safety program. Treat your family to a specially priced private screening, and join Starpass and the Popcorn Club to get exclusive offers all year long. And don’t forget the popcorn! Pre-order tickets and your favorite concession items contact-free via the free Showcase Cinemas app and website.

Visit the Showcase Cinema de Lux location near you and share the magic of the movies with your family! Reserve tickets and private screenings at showcasecinemas.com.

Showcase Cinema de Lux City Center, 19 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains
Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross County, 2 South Drive, Yonkers 
Showcase Cinema de Lux Ridge Hill, 59 Fitzgerald Street, Yonkers

PRIVATE SCREENINGS

Specially priced private screenings are the perfect way to enjoy a family trip to the movies! Watch the latest release or a classic bring back in your own private auditorium for up to 20 guests. Add a concession value package and save even more! With classic titles starting at only $99 and new releases starting at $199, private screenings are a great way to make a new movie memory this school vacation or Valentine’s Day. View the list of classic titles and reserve a private screening now.

CONTACTLESS ORDERING AND XPRESS PICK-UP

Showcase Cinema de Lux makes it easy to order tickets and your favorite snacks in advance! Skip the line by purchasing movie tickets and concessions at showcasecinemas.com or via the free Showcase app for a contactless experience. Concession orders are available at the designated XPress Pick-Up area.

THE POPCORN CLUB

The Popcorn Club is a fun way for kids 11 and younger to enjoy the movies! For a one-time fee of only $10, members receive a free movie ticket, 123 Go Box (kids concession combo), membership card and backpack when they join, plus a free ticket every year for their birthday! Members also get special movie prizes and exclusive invitations and offers all year long. Join the Popcorn Club today!

STARPASS

Get more movies and more rewards with Starpass! Members earn 10% on virtually all purchases and never pay fees for tickets purchased via showcasecinemas.com or the Showcase app. Starpass members receive a $5 reward for every $50 spent to apply to a future ticket or concession purchase. Members also get exclusive offers all year long. Joining Starpass is free and easy. Sign up today!

BE SHOWCASE SAFE

Showcase Cinemas is doing its part to help keep you safe with its new Be Showcase Safe health and safety program. The program has been developed and certified with J.S. Held, an environmental health and safety firm led by noted toxicologists, epidemiologists and an Assistant Surgeon General, US Public Health Service (Retired). The Be Showcase Safe program includes employee health screenings before shifts as well as food and beverage manager ServSafeTM Food Safety Certification under the National Restaurant Association's ServSafe food and safety training and certification program. Additional new procedures include the installation of air-purifying systems for all US theaters, reduced auditorium seating capacity, automatic socially distanced seating, increased and enhanced auditorium cleaning between shows and for high-touch surface areas, employee and guest protective mask requirements, social distancing markers and the availability of hand-sanitizing stations. To learn more about the Be Showcase Safe program and how you can do your part to keep movie-going safe and fun for everyone, please visit showcasecinemas.com. ​

Watch the video to learn more.

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The perfect place to express your creativity while getting out of the house in a fun and safe way, A Maze in Pottery, located at 76 North State Road in Briarcliff Manor, offers a multitude of options for pottery painting. Both kids and adults alike will find pieces and colors that bring out their inner artist, time and time again.

​The in-store options are endless, and the paint-at-home options are just as diverse. A Maze in Pottery is dedicated to providing the safest, most memorable experience possible for every painter.

1. In-Store Safety Procedure

2. Walk-Ins and Reservation

3. In-Store and Take Home Parties

4. Pottery-to-go

You can contact A Maze in Pottery at (914) 502-0088 or visit amazeinpottery.com.

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Can you believe we are now a year into the pandemic? Many of us have children who will be celebrating a second birthday in the world of social distancing. Finding a safe, creative and fun way to celebrate is no small feat.

While drive-by parties and virtual celebrations are still very much alive, some families are open to the idea of getting together safely inside with a small, masked and distanced group. Especially now as more people are being vaccinated every day! If you fall in that category then you will be delighted to learn about all of the exciting experiential birthday party options at The Palisades Center.

The Palisades Center, a haven of entertainment just across the Mario Cuomo Bridge, is loaded with entertainment venues where you can celebrate the big day safely and in style. They have instituted Healthy Shopper Guidelines that include comprehensive safety and sanitizing measures to help protect employees and shoppers.

​Check out these 10 safe birthday party venues for Westchester kids, sure to bring a smile to your birthday boy or girl!

Image: @5witsadventures

​5 Wits
Teleport to an abandoned spaceship, capture a fire-breathing dragon, and test your wits against the Pharaoh – this is no ordinary birthday party! Party packages include a decorated party room, food and beverages.

Image: @autobahn_palisades

Autobahn Indoor Speedway
At Autobahn, skip the gimmicks and get straight to exhilarating races, comfortable facilities and fully customizable a la kart options for your event. Gather your team, strap in, and race on!

Build-A-Bear Workshop
Ready to get your celebration on? Every Build-A-Bear party package is full of energy, creativity and most of all, fun!

Claire’s
Celebrate you next birthday at every girl’s happy place! The staff will help you select the best activities to increase the fun. Whatever party theme you choose, your party will look amazing!

Color Me Mine
Color Me Mine provides everything you and your guests need to celebrate and create at your pARTy! There are plenty of options to customize your experience.

Escape the Mystery Room
Embark on an adventurous celebration! Escape the Mystery Room provides all ages with a creative and fun party experience.

Image: @glitter_n_glam_nj

Glitter & Glam
Customize your Glitter & Glam party whether big or small! Leave the details to them and the Glitter & Glam team can personalize your celebration to any theme you wish.

Nomad Kali & Combat Fitness
Give an epic and unforgettable party they’ll never forget! Learn the ways of Martial Arts and enjoy goody bags for you and your guests.

OMG Entertainment
Have the ride of your life without having to travel far! OMG Entertainment party packages include a variety of exclusive virtual reality experiences.

Palisades Climb Adventure
Start a new year by climbing new heights! Let the thrill-seeker in you experience this ultimate celebration.

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As we approach the one year mark of the pandemic many of us are searching for ways to keep our kids entertained, challenged and active. Typically this time of year we head indoors to enjoy the amazing indoor play and adventure centers we have right here in Westchester. But this year is different. So we took a look at all of the local indoor play spaces, kids gyms, trampoline parks, bowling alleys, arcades, climbing centers, mini golf courses and more to identify which spots are open and which are not.

The following list highlights local indoor entertainment venues for kids in or near Westchester, noting which are open, temporarily closed or permanently closed. Many of these centers offer private small group classes or pods even if their location is closed. Also, you can take advantage of virtual and online classes being offered by many local kids gyms from the safety of your home so do check their websites for details.

As with everything these days, things are always changing. So while some locations may be listed as temporarily closed, their status can change at any time. Same goes for open locations.

Open locations have mandatory health and safety measures in place including capacity restrictions, sanitizing, masks, health screen waivers and advance reservations. Before heading out be sure to find out what you need to do for a safe and fun and experience.

For more ideas, visit our Indoor Fun, Outdoor Fun and Virtual Fun pages.

Little artists can get in touch with their creative side with these art programs for kids in Westchester. Local community organizations, art centers, schools and studios have adapted their programming for the pandemic and are offering both in person and online instruction. You can register for a small group studio class, schedule a private class at your home or register for a virtual workshop. Some places are even delivering supply kits!

Why are art classes a good idea? Art can help kids develop their creativity, fine motor skills, problem solving ability and communication skills. Art can foster existing skills and teach new ones. It also helps kids learn to focus and persevere. And last but not least, art classes can keep kids engaged, inspired and busy during these pandemic winter months.

So what are are you waiting for? Whether you have a tween who is passionate about painting or a preschooler who loves making slime, check out this list of local art schools and more in Westchester.

While traveling is still pretty much off the table, virtual entertainment continues to be a lifesaver these days. There are so many FREE virtual field trips, live webcams, online tours and educational videos at our fingertips because of the pandemic. So while that trip to Paris may not be in your immediate future, you can still see it "up close" with your children right from your couch.

Check out our list of free and fun virtual tours, field trips and more to keep kids entertained this winter at home.

Take a Virtual Tour of the National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History virtual tours allow visitors to take self-guided, room-by-room tours of select exhibits and areas within the museum online. Learn about dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, sea monsters, genomes and more! Check out the narrated virtual tours to enjoy have a guided experience.

For more incredible museums and cultural institutions try American Museum of Natural History, Boston Children's Museum, Boston's Museum of Science, Exploratorium, The Louvre Museum, British Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art for Kids and The Vatican.

For more science, check out NOVA.

See the World with Google Arts & Culture

Google Arts & Culture is a treasure trove of over 10,000 famous sites, 2,000 museums and 100,000 artworks from 80 countries. There is an infinite amount of art, history, and cultural tours that can provide endless discovery, education and entertainment. See the Status of Liberty, take a tour of the White House, enter the Eiffel Tower, enjoy a nature walk at a national park, see worldwide castles, play games and more. There is a lot of navigation to be done, versus just hitting play on a video, so younger children may need you to be their tour guide. Older children on the other hand may get lost in delight with all there is to see.

For more global exploration, try Discovery Education, Global Trek, Google Earth: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, National Geographic Explorer Classroom, National Geographic Kids and Stages Around the World 360 Tour.

See the Marine Animals Live at the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is remarkable. Virtually there are nine different live webcams to see marinelife, in action, in real time, from home! Marvel at the sea otters, jelly fish, Beluga whales, piranhas, penguins, sea lions, fish, gators and more.

For more captivating, virtual aquarium experiences, try Baltimore's National Aquarium, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Sea Life Sydney and Sea World, Shedd Aquarium.

Meet Your Favorite Zoo Animals at the San Diego Zoo

If there’s one virtual zoo trip to do – it’s the San Diego Zoo. There are 13 different live webcams including elephants, koala bears, tigers, hippos and more. Also, there is an engaging video series specifically designed for kids to learn about animals, their habits and habitats.

For more animal encounters try Atlanta Zoo, Bronx Zoo, Houston Zoo, National Parks Service, Reid Park Zoo, Saint Louis Zoo, Taronga Zoo Sydney, Singapore Zoo, Smithsonian National Zoo, Toronto Zoo and Wild Life Sydney.

Explore Natural Wonders and More Outdoor Destinations with Austin Adventures Virtual Adventures for Kids

Visit Costa Rica, Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore and more stunning sites in these in depth tours made for children. An hour plus long video takes you into a journey through history, highlighting key facts and attractions you will love learning about. 

For more breathtaking, outdoor experiences try Ancient Egypt, Ellis Island, Farm 360, The Grand Canyon (more here), Great Salt Lake, Great Wall of China, Haleakalā Volcano Crater, The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Machu Picchu, Mount Rushmore, The Nature Conservancy, Niagara Falls (more here), US National Parks, US National Parks on Google Earth, World National Parks 360 Tour, Yellowstone National Park (more here) and Yosemite National Park.

Go to DisneyWorld
​
Head out on a virtual excursion around Disney World right on your computer. See the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach and Hollywood Studios. Then, get in depth with these video tours and details about the park. And then get on the rides here!

For more thrilling theme park experiences try Universal Orlando Resort, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and go on the rides here.

Explore Baseball's Highlights from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

You can watch highlights of some of baseball's greats, listen to in-depth interviews, go on virtual field trips and view  digital collections & exhibits all from the comfort of your home.

For more remarkable sports experiences, try stadium tours at Yankee Stadium, Citi Field, Every NFL Stadium, NY Knicks, NY Giants, NY Jets. Or check out the NHL Hall of Fame, NBA All-Star field trip and Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Travel Back in History With Historic Hudson Valley

One of our local favorites, Historic Hudson Valley, is bringing the rich and enchanting history of our region right to your home. There are Zoom backgrounds, historic recipes, virtual jigsaw puzzles, tinsmithing and more. 

For more monumental historical experiences try Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement & American Revolution Museum, National Constitution Center, The Alamo, Mount Vernon and Museum of the American Revolution.

Take a Trip to Outer Space

Now you can go to Mars directly from your couch! Discover the surface of Mars with NASA’s Curiosity rover in a 360-degree view. Learn about space exploration and more in this interactive experience.

For more wondrous, out of this world experiences try Google Moon, NASA Glenn Research Center Tour, NASA Videos, NASA Space Cam, Nickelodeon Slime in Space, Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, US Space and Rocket Museum, and Virtual Trips With Boeing.

Learn About Candy and More on Unwrapped

Watch Unwrapped's library of videos to see behind-the-scenes details on classic American food, from peanut butter and chocolate syrup to French fries and bubblegum. Join host Marc Summers (yes from Double Dare!) as he heads into  test kitchens, factory tours and more.

That concludes our list! For more ideas, check out our blog 10 Virtual or at-Home Things to Do in Westchester During COVID. It features local museums and classes that offer virtual experiences. Do you have any to add? Share your suggestions in the comments below or in Facebook, Instagram or Twitter!

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Ice skating is a classic winter activity and a wonderful way to have some active, distanced fun during these chilly months.

This year there are a number of indoor ice rinks in and near Westchester County that are open for ice skating and hockey. While public skating opportunities are very limited, there are private lessons, group learn to skate programs and more that you can take advantage of. If you have a child interested in learning to play hockey or joining a team, check out the Junior Ranger's programs for boys and girls being offered at multiple local rinks.

Here is our list of places to go ice skating indoors in Westchester County and nearby. You can also check out our list of places to go outdoor ice skating.

Westchester Skating Academy
91 Fairview Drive, Elmsford, NY

Current Status: While public skating is not open this season, private and scheduled programs are open including freestyle sessions. Winter programming includes Metro Plus, Mini Mites, Hockey, Women's Hockey Clinic and Learn to Skate. COVID-19 protocols are in place for health and safety.

Westchester Skating Academy is one of the premiere skating facilities in the area. It is one of the only NHL twin rink facilities in Westchester County. They offer public skating, holiday camps & clinics, learn to skate lessons, hockey lessons & camps plus hockey leagues for children and adults. 

Ebersole Ice Rink
Delfino Park , 110 Lake Street, White Plains, NY

Current Status: Currently open, Ebersole Ice Rink offers skate lessons for all levels, hockey teams, and public skating sessions. The outdoor rink with a roof is open from mid October through late March. There are specific sessions open only to White Plains residents. Access more details here.

Proof of City of White Plains residency is required for admission to resident only sessions (School ID, Drivers License, Utility Bill). COVID-19 safety protocols in effect and include social distancing, masks and limited capacity.

Ice Hutch
 655 Garden Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 

Current Status: They are  currently open but are not offering public skating or birthday parties right now. Masks are required for everyone entering the facility. Stick Time Sessions are limited to the first 24 Players. Skating School Winter Session begins January 5th and registration is open. 

The Ice Hutch serves the skating community all year-round by offering skating lessons for all levels (ages 4+), weekly public skating, figure skating and hockey sessions. Freestyle sessions for figure skaters and hockey Stick Time sessions are also available. 

Murray's Skating Center
348 Tuckahoe Rd., Yonkers, NY

Current Status: There is no public skating at Yonkers’ E.J. Murray Memorial Skating Center. They are hoping to open it soon. Right now only private lessons and private hockey games are happening at the rink (currently the Rangers program is full).

Murray's is a Yonkers winter tradition like no other for residents and visitors alike. They recently completed faculty upgrades including a new entrance, a new addition of a mezzanine viewing level and refurbished lobby and restrooms. The typically offer   skating lessons, public skating and adult and youth hockey. When open, Murray's Skating Center offers the largest weekly public skating schedule in the area. ​

Brewster Ice Arena
63 Fields Lane, Brewster, NY

Current Status: Indoor rinks are open for public skating (see schedule), lessons and hockey. The outdoor pond is not open yet and will open once weather and safety permits. Rentals are available. COVID health and safety measures are in place with distancing, masks and 50% capacity.

Similar to the indoor facilities in Westchester County, this arena offers learn to skate programs, hockey programs, clinics, camps, travel hockey, adult hockey, fitness programs and freestyle figure skating. There are three indoor rinks and a fourth "pond" seasonal outdoor rink.

​Palisades Center Ice Rink
Palisades Center, 4900 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY
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Current Status: Public skating is currently closed but still time and figure skating sessions are open. COVID health and safety measures are in place.  See schedule.

This rink sits inside the massive Palisades Center, just across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The mall is bursting with entertainment options, shopping and food. So you can make a day of it.  

Hommocks Park Ice Rink
140 Hommocks Road, Larchmont, NY

Current Status: Closed for the 2020 season due to COVID. There are no skating lessons or public skating. There is a recreation hockey program. When open, The Hommocks Park Ice Rink offers lessons, public skating, Stick and Puck Sessions, appreciation days, character skates and more year-round recreational community events.


Playland Ice Casino
100 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY

Current Status: Closed until further notice. When open they offer public skating, tot programs, learn to skate lessons, camps, hockey programs and more are all available. Two rinks are used for public skating and are equipped with state-of-the-art music systems and dance lighting.

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Many of us are on a quest to find fun and safe things to with our kids over winter break. You will be pleased to hear that the nearby Palisades Center (just over the Cuomo bridge in Rockland County) has a great selection of boredom buster activities that are safe.

To ensure health and safety be prepared to plan your activity in advance and wear a mask. Protocols are in place like cleaning and disinfecting, distancing and capacity limits.

​Keep your family entertained, challenged, engaged, and inspired with these ideas!

5 Wits is a live-action, highly interactive, and completely immersive adventure experience unlike anything else that exists. Your family will encounter hands-on tasks, puzzles, and challenges, but be careful: your performance determines the outcome of the adventure. Failure IS an option! Health and safety measures are in place. Check out this video to learn more.

Located on LEVEL 4. Reservations are encouraged.

​If your family is looking for a thrill, Autobahn Indoor Speedway will deliver. Jump in one of the electric Italian pro style go-karts and reach speeds up to 50 MPH. Everyone needs to be 13 years old and 56 inches tall to race the Pro Karts, but Jr Karts are available for kids 8 and over that are at least 48 inches tall. Health and safety measures are in place.

Located on LEVEL 2. Reservations are encouraged.

​Unleash your family’s creativity in Color Me Mine's relaxing art studio. Choose from hundreds of unfinished pieces and spend an hour or two painting them. You will be amazed at the finished designs and leave with lasting memories. Health and safety measures are in place.

Located on LEVEL 3. To-go kits are available for purchase.

​Have you tried an Escape Room? Test out your problem-solving skills as your family attempts to conquer a series of challenging puzzles, codes, and clues before 50 minutes run out. With six exhilarating scenarios to choose from, ranging in difficulty from one to three, they offer something for all participants, regardless of age or skill level. Health and safety measures are in place.

Located on LEVEL 3. Reservations are encouraged.

​Palisades Climb Adventure is the world's tallest indoor ropes course! Standing 85-feet tall, this indoor ropes course is great for experienced climbers and casual adventurers. It features 75 different elements, from vertical rope ladders and cargo nets, to two-line rope bridges and a tension traverse. This is a great opportunity to climb, conquer and explore!  Health and safety measures are in place.

Located on LEVEL 4.

​New to the mall, Space Adventure is the largest indoor miniature golf course on the East Coast! Space Adventure Mini Golf takes visitors on an exciting kaleidoscopic space adventure. Each hole offers a new challenge with spacemen and alien encounters along the way. Everything lights up under the luminescent glow of black lights, even the putters and golf balls. For pricing and safety information, call 201-367-8265.

Located on LEVEL 1.

Find these activities and more only at Palisades Center – just over the Cuomo Bridge, Exit 12 off I-87! Visit PalisadesCenter.com or call 845-348-1000 for more information. 

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Stay safe and support local businesses with these fun, at-home or virtual activities/classes in Westchester County. Try online music or voice lessons, have a pottery-to-go kit delivered to your home, log on to a painting class and more!
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1. Groove Family Music of Larchmont is live-streaming 30 minutes of joyful, interactive, family music. Grandparents are welcome!
   
   
2. Choice Music Studio offers online music lessons —piano, voice, guitar and more.
   
   
3. Music Conservatory of Westchester has virtual private lessons taught by world-class faculty.
   
   
4. Songs for Seeds Armonk, Scarsdale & Port Chester has live, online classes to keep little ones rockin'.
   
   
5. Sounds Good Westchester has Music Together classes on Zoom — enjoy unlimited drop-in classes.
   
   
6. ArtsWestchester has FREE online workshops and art activities for kids and teens.
   
   
7. D.I.Y. Slime in Larchmont offers Slime Kits To-Go— pick up or delivery.
   
   
8. One River School in Larchmont & Hartsdale have online winter vacation camps.
   
   
9. The Digital Arts Experience (DAE) has virtual classes, workshops and gaming classes.
   
   
10. A Maze in Pottery in Briarcliff has Pottery To-Go with free delivery.

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With “home for the holidays” taking on a whole new meaning this year, our favorite seasonal activities are going to look different but that doesn’t mean they still can’t be awesome!

Codeverse just launched their Gift of Code program and it is the perfect activity for your kids through this holiday season.  Gift of Code with Codeverse is a free 2 month program that will teach your kids the foundations of coding through holiday themed challenges and events.

The first reason we love this program is that it is FREE, fun, and holiday themed!  Once you sign up (here) you will get a free account to their interactive online coding platform.  Through “Missions”, step-by-step instructive tutorials, your kid will start creating their very own apps and games that can be shared to any cell phone number once they are done!

Codeverse will help your kid create holiday themed games that you can customize and send to your friends and family as holiday cards!

Another reason we love this program is that it is educational and makes screen time smarter. If you are like me, you know that coding is important but don’t really know what it is! Well, coding is the language that a computer reads to know what to do next. Not only is coding an important skill that our kids will definitely need to know for their future but it helps them learn skills like problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity.  Finally coding will help your kid practice their reading, math, science, and typing skills while they are on holiday break.

Gift of Code with Codeverse will help keep your kid entertained, engaged, and learning through this holiday season and you will be able to share and brag about their creations to friends and family!  Overall it is a win, win, win and we can’t wait to see what your kids create with code!

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Calling all creative minds! As Coronavirus cases are rising and school breaks (or possibly closures) are coming, it is time to take advantage of virtual activities again. Westchester County has a ton of local art studios and centers that offer to-go projects as well as online classes, workshops, videos and camps. So if your child likes comics, pottery, drawing, coding or painting, this list is for you. 

It is really important that we support our local businesses so that they survive this tumultuous time. Sadly, some have already closed their doors. Now is the time to take advantage of our local experts and artists— their creativity and talent is at your fingertips. You can register for a class, view free resources or purchase to-go projects (a great holiday gift idea).

Please note that many fall semester classes are ending and new semesters, camps or programs will be posted in the coming weeks so do check back at these links for updated information.

1. MADE: my art + design experience in Mamaroneck is offering free guided art tutorials, they also have an Art-To-Go online store so you can shop your project in advance and they'll deliver it straight to your front door
   
   
2. There is an impressive range of virtual classes at Curious on Hudson, including drama and improvisation, space explorers, electricity, Minecraft and more
   
   
3. The Pottery Factory in Mount Kisco has hundreds of Pottery To-GO options that can be shipped directly to your home or picked up curbside
   
   
4. Register for an online menorah or ornament sculpture class and so much more at Scribble Art Workshop
   
   
5. Sign up now for the Winter Online Camps at OneRiver​— learn drawing, illustration, comics, digital illustrations and more
   
   
6. The Digital Arts Experience (DAE) has you covered with virtual classes, workshops and gaming (best for ages 7-16)
   
   
7. The Blue Door Arts Center has ongoing, free online children's workshops, you can also view videos of past ones
   
   
8. The Performing Arts Center Purchase College offers Watch / Listen / Play This Week- The PAC in Your Living Room for kids & families
   
   
9. Check out "Art Where You Are"— it includes a bunch of free virtual art videos and projects from the Katonah Museum of Art
   
   
10. Children as young as three or as old as 10th grade can enjoy online art classes from Young at Art
    
    
11. The Westchester Children's Museum offers a library of free online activities including a STEAM activity center, YouTube Channel, online programs and more
    
    
12. Clay Art Center is offering virtual kids parties and curbside pick up clay and tools
    
    
13. Try drawing, painting, ceramics, coding, robotics + much more at the Rye Arts Center's virtual classes
    
    
14. Sign up for winter youth classes at the Pelham Art Center
    
    
15. RAD Art School is offering online drawing an painting classes classes for children and teens
    
    
16. D.I.Y. Slime in Larchmont offers Slime Kits to go— pick up or delivery
    
    
17. Contact the Art Academy of Westchester for remote learning classes
    
    
18. iD Tech offers virtual tech camps for ages 7-19
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19. Plaster Palace Pottery offers online shopping— purchase your project to paint at home
    
    
20. Learn to code from anywhere with Codeverse's virtual coding sessions and kit or get free classes with their Gift of Code program.
    ​
    
21. Pottery on Hudson offers virtual stoneware classes for children and teens
22. Jacob Burns Film Center has a virtual classroom 
    
    
23. Check out Kids Flicks & Art Breaks from the Pelham Picture House— bringing you the best new children’s films from around the world and accompanying family-friendly activities just in time for Thanksgiving
    
    
24. ArtsWestchester has free online workshops and art activities kids and teens
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25. Try virtual classes with RiverArts including writing, open mic and more

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Moviegoers can start watching at local theaters starting October 23rd. Yesterday Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that movie theaters outside of New York City can reopen at 25 percent capacity under state guidance. 

This comes after many local independent theaters were pressuring the state to allow them to reopen to improve the economy and help these local businesses survive.  Just a few weeks ago Regal Cinemas announced that it will close all 543 of its theaters in the United States as a result of continued revenue losses from the coronavirus pandemic. The chain had 44 New York locations, two in Westchester County. In addition the Bow Tie Cinema in Mount Kisco has also permanently closed. In late 2019, iPic Theater in Dobbs Ferry closed for good.

New rules for theater reopening include a maximum capacity of 50 people per screen in each movie theater at once. Theaters can only open outside of New York City in counties that have COVID-19 positivity rates of less than 2 percent on a 14-day average and do not have any cluster zones. Theaters will be subject to rigorous state guidance and enforcement.

Additional conditions from the state include:

• Masks will be required at all times except when seated and eating or drinking. 
• Assigned seating will be required in all theaters.
• Social distancing between parties will be required at all times.
• Additional staffing will be required to control occupancy, traffic and seating to ensure compliance.
• Enhanced air filtration, ventilation and purification standards must be met by theaters. 

​

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Participation in the performing arts, especially starting at a young age, helps children develop crucial life skills such as creative thinking and problem solving, empathy, communication, confidence, public speaking, and more. Not to mention it’s a ton of fun! With a multitude of companies to choose from, what should parents look for when choosing a performing arts program for their children? Jill Abusch, Artistic Director of The Play Group Theatre in White Plains, and her staff discuss the 5 elements that are paramount to selecting a performing arts program that will set children up for success both on the stage and off. ​
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1. Room to Grow 
Look for a program that has diverse offerings - you want a theatre community that is thinking not only about who your child is today, but who they can grow into tomorrow! As students grow, so should the programs available to them, including age-appropriate exploration that encourages growth at every stage of development. “Students that participate in multiple years or seasons at The Play Group Theatre gain a wide range of experiences working with peers of all ages, performing in both musicals and plays, participating both onstage and off, and being in large ensembles and small. They are constantly exposed to new adventures and environments,” says Hannah Stephens, a director and teaching artist in both the MainStage and Theatre Lab programs at PGT. 

A theatre that is providing your child with room to grow is investing meaningfully in the creative process. Jill Abusch, PGT’s Artistic Director, says that you should look for programs that promote active exploration and experimentation, allowing time for one of the most crucial lessons of the performing arts: embracing failure as a step to success! And make sure that those programs are providing opportunities for creative and developmental growth. “I just love to watch our students grow from an early experience, like playing a Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz through learning advanced text and character analysis and ultimately doing plays like The Crucible or The Tempest. Or seeing a student who had a blast in the cast of Shrek, develop a new interest in sound design, and move from the stage to the tech booth. We are constantly assessing our students’ growth and providing new challenges. And ultimately we get to look back at where they’ve come from, on a journey filled with a range of diverse experiences, and that is part of what makes them such an interesting artist!” says Abusch. Experience in an array of theatre disciplines allows students to appreciate the craft as a whole and gain a deep understanding of everyone’s role in the theatre. This leads to a greater respect for both the art form and their peers and mentors. 
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2. A Non-competitive Environment
With great friends comes great theatre. Students can, and should, experience rigorous and professional training, without feeling the need to compete with their friends and peers for opportunities. The stronger the bonds between students are off stage, the more powerful and impactful the work will be on stage. With a strong, supportive network of teachers, friends, and audiences, students feel the freedom to perform and express themselves without feeling any judgement. “PGT friendships last a lifetime, in part, due to the fact that PGT students are always encouraged to support each other,” says Daniel Goldberg, PGT alumni and Camp PGT staff member.  Because the theatre can be a competitive place, a sense of community and non-competitiveness has to be intentionally fostered by teachers and directors. One way this environment can be created is through the very structure of the program itself.  If a theatre is offering a diverse array of performance opportunities, rather than double casting a single show, then they are more likely to ensure that each student has access to the roles that are right for them. Double casting, which involves casting multiple students in the same part, places the gratification of the casting process over the overall artistic and educational experience of the production. When multiple students have to share a role, the results are often product-oriented, with the emphasis naturally shifting to a more competitive environment. Instead, “The Play Group Theatre teaches students to approach every single role like a lead role and reminds every actor that they are all equally responsible for the success of the show,” says Goldberg, who has seen the benefits of this approach both as a student and a member of the staff. When every actor feels a sense of responsibility and pride in the process, the finished product is one of great depth, and becomes much more rewarding and victorious for everyone involved. By giving students the tools to make any role stand out and feel important, regardless of number of lines or the size of the part, teachers and directors send their students out into the world with a strong ability to adapt to any circumstance and creatively make the most of any situation.

3. Emphasis on Making Choices, and Skill Development 
While the joy of a great performance is exciting for everyone involved, what parents should search for in their arts program, in addition to quality productions, is emphasis on the creative process, which develops the life skills that children will carry with them into their adult lives. Outside of the arts, students are used to having access to all of the information in the world at their fingertips and are comfortable using google or their textbooks to find the “right” or “wrong” answer to every question. In the creative process, there are an unlimited number of “right” answers to any given question and students learn to explore and unlock many of them before settling on their own unique and specific choice. The arts is all about making strong choices, and it becomes an artist’s job to embrace the choices that are right for them and only them. Look for a program that allows time and space for exploring those choices, rather than a program that focuses on learning lines and staging, which is the least creative aspect of a rehearsal process.  But the time and freedom to make choices isn’t where a good arts education ends. In addition to embracing the power of creative choices, students must also develop the skills to communicate those choices to an audience. Skills like vocal and movement training, acting technique, time management, text analysis, critical thinking, and more empower students to share their unique choices, taking them from the rehearsal room to the stage. Jill Abusch says, “At PGT, we find that when our students find success and comfort in ambiguity and learn to pair their creative ideas with technical ability, they develop crucial skills like creative thinking, problem solving, and confidence in themselves that transform their performances. More importantly it benefits them for the rest of their lives, no matter their chosen career path.”

​4. Focus on Empathy and Emotional Development 
One of the most important elements that students gain from a quality arts education is the ability to practice empathy and communicate their emotions. The presence of empathy is declining rapidly in our world, just when we seem to need it the most. However, studying theatre during childhood is one proven way to ensure that children grow up understanding what it is like to walk in someone else’s shoes and how to look at any given situation from multiple points of view. “At PGT, we ask our students to be both physically and emotionally present in any given moment, taking the time and effort to truly see and connect with each other, their teachers, and the characters they are playing on stage,” says Hannah Stephens. By discussing what motivates each character and what lies behind the choices they make, students are developing empathic skills and using them to find truth in the given circumstances of the imaginary world. Look for theatre programs that strive to cast young actors in roles that are in contrast to their own experiences and personalities, challenging them to understand new feelings, perspectives, and ideas. Empathy is a skill that must be practiced, and it is one that, in the right theatre program, will be a primary focus as students learn to confidently share their feelings, understand their characters, and discover truth in a rich imaginary world. This prepares them to go out into the world as caring, confident, well-rounded artists and people.
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5. A Strong Sense of Community  
​Children benefit from a strong sense of belonging, freedom from judgement, and a safe place to express themselves. Find a theatre community that welcomes each and every student who walks through their doors, allowing them the space and safety to be silly, creative, and ultimately, themselves. Look for a wide range of classes, taught by instructors from all backgrounds, and a diverse and rich community where students learn to appreciate and embrace everyone’s unique experiences and talents. “In addition to building a community of students, staff and parents, PGT fosters a strong network of alumni and artists that expands beyond the walls of their building and out into the world. Students that join PGT benefit from being part of a community that possesses a strong set of values, traditions, and common goals that stay with its students for the rest of their lives,” says alum and Camp PGT staff member Marina Lebowich. More than just a place to learn and grow as young theatre artists, the theatre you find for your child today, should provide its students with a home that they can always return to, knowing that they will be loved, embraced, and accepted exactly as they are. ​ ​

To find out more about The Play Group Theatre’s unique artistic and educational philosophy, visit http://www.playgroup.org/story/philosophy.php. The Play Group Theatre is currently enrolling for Virtual Summer Camps for all ages, and Fall registration will be open soon! Visit this website for more information and to find the perfect program for your young artist today! www.playgroup.org/summer-online/

It's showtime! This winter we have a lot of family-friendly shows coming up for Westchester kids. The Royal Hanneford Circus, Peter Pan & Cinderella on Ice and Pout-Pout Fish, to name a new. Book your tickets in advance before they are sold out.

Did we miss one? As always, you can 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.

​Rosie Revere, Engineer
Sat Jan 18th
Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck

Pete The Cat
Sat Feb 29th
Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck, NY

The Spinning Tales of Peter Pan and Cinderella on Ice
Sat Feb 29th 
The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT​

The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other Eric Carle Favorites
 Sun Mar 1st 
The Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY

The Pout-Pout Fish 
Sat Mar 28th
Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck

Seussical the Musical​
Sat Jan 18th - Sun 26th 
Play Group Theatre, 1 N Broadway #111, White Plains, NY

Peekskill Middle School Drama Club's Disney's Frozen Jr. Sneak Peek
Sat Jan 18th 2:30pm - 3:30pm
The Field Library Children's Room, 4 Nelson Ave, Peekskill, NY

Legally Blonde, The Musical
Fri Jan 24th - Sat 25th 
Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main St, Irvington

Random Farms Kids' Theater presents Urinetown
Fri Jan 24th - Sun 26th 
Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St, Tarrytown, NY

1 2 3 Andres
Sat Mar 14th
Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck

Treehouse Shakers: The Boy Who Grew Flowers
Sun Mar 22nd 3:00pm
The Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY

​The Amazing Max
Sun Jan 26th 
The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT

Garry Krinsky Toying with Science
Sat Feb 1st 
Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck, NY

Flip Flop Circus
Sun Feb 9th 
The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT

The Royal Hanneford Circus
Sat Feb 15th - Mon 17th 
Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave, White Plains, NY

Playtime at The Palace Mr. Fish "Fabulous Forces"
Sun Feb 16th 
The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT

MUMMENSCHANZ: you & me
Sun Feb 23rd 
The Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road Purchase, NY

Air Play
Feb 28th 
The Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY

The Peking Acrobats
Sun Mar 29th
Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln, Mamaroneck

Dinosaurs, planets, trains, masterpieces, sharks, illusions, ice cream, water experimentation... these are just a few things your child can experience and learn about at nearby museums and aquariums in Westchester County, NY.

When the weather is not conducive to outdoor activities, museums and aquariums are a hands-on, real-life way to engage your child in learning and fun. Museums are always changing exhibits so there is always something new to see. With some of the best museums in the world in our backyard, we are very fortunate. Kids can enjoy playrooms, maker labs, world-renown art and science exhibits, touch tanks, planetariums and so much more.

One concern parents have about museums is that they can get expensive. Here are some ideas to keep costs low, while keeping your child's spirits high!

Here are some tips to enjoy museums without breaking the bank:

• Become a Museum Member- Museums offer memberships which can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple times in a year. This can be huge if there is a museum nearby that your child enjoys again and again. There are typically other perks to memberships like special exhibit access, food & parking discounts and guest passes.
• Invest in a Reciprocal Membership- Reciprocal memberships give you free or discounted admission to a number of attractions, which is a great way to see a lot on a budget. For example, The Association of Children's Museums Reciprocal Network gives discounted admissions to a vast list of member museums across the US and Canada- a great way to see a lot, especially when traveling. Learn more about  reciprocal programs and see a comprehensive list here.
• Visit your library- Did you know that local Westchester County libraries offer museum passes that provide free or discounted admissions to local museums in Westchester, Connecticut and New York City? Offers vary by library so contact yours and find out what's available.
• Museums for All- Through Museums for All, people receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 400 museums throughout the US.
• Do Your Research to Find Freebies- Many museums offer free admission to young children. Must Read: Keep Your Money: How to Get in Free at 20 NYC Museums. And even better, here is a list of 19 Awesome Museums in NYC That Are Totally Free.

Hot off the press!

The only borough in New York City without a children’s museum will be getting one this year. The Bronx Chidren's Museum will be geared toward young children, especially those children and families who are not typically able to visit a museum.

The Museum of Ice Cream opened in late fall 2019 and features imaginative, multi-sensory installations that bring to life guests’ delightful dreams: savor the sweetest treats on a floating table, slide down an epic three-story slide, see a spectacular hall of giant scoops, and follow the sound of a buzz that will lead you to a giant “Queen Bee hive. Tickets include ice cream tastings and signature treats.

Open until April 2020, the Sloomoo Institute is a sensory playground centered around slime. The unique museum provides an engaging slime experience with a variety of textures, colors and consistencies that evoke joy and excitement. From a slime step-and-repeat to a slime waterfall, and everything in between, this is worth checking out before it is gone!
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Experience under the sea attractions at these aquatic-centered destinations.

​The Hudson River Museum is small, but offers weekend programming for children including art & science projects as well as planetarium shows. Children can learn about the Hudson River with a beautiful view.

Not To Miss: Kids Week Feb 15-22 at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum! During Kids Week, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in dozens of fun-filled activities, live animal shows, hands-on workshops, performances, special guests, 3D experiences and interactive demonstrations that the whole family will enjoy.  All Kids Week activities are free with Museum admission.

Moms in the community love the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT, featuring  75 live exhibits featuring more than 2,700 marine animals of 300 species. Plus plenty of room for young children to play and explore.

If you have not been to Coney Island to the New York Aquarium, it is worth the trip! The aquarium was completely rebuilt after the devastation of Hurricane Sandy and offers an incredible experience-- see the sharks!

According to the Association of Children's Museums, "Children’s museums are places where children learn through play and exploration in environments designed just for them. Reflecting their diverse communities, children’s museums create playful, interactive learning experiences. In an increasingly complex world, children’s museums provide a place where all kids can learn through play with the caring adults in their lives."

​Opened just a few years ago, the nearby Westchester Children's Museum is a smaller museum comparatively, but a great destination to spend a couple of hours. They offer offer drop-in science, engineering, arts, and crafts programs throughout the week. Coming soon: a bunch of brand new exhibits, including a whole Makerspace dedicated to older children ages 7 and up that will feature woodwork and other more complex STEAM activities, as well as a Shadow Puppet Theater, a Sound Room, and a new Gift Shop, to name a few.

Moms in our community love Stepping Stones in Norwalk, CT. There is so much to touch and explore for young children including the energy lab, tot town and color coaster. Just outside is a beautiful playground with a lighthouse and small spray area, if you visit on a beautiful day.

Children's museums in general offer a lot of drop-in and scheduled programming so it is worthwhile to check their websites and plan your visits accordingly. Which is your favorite?

If you are looking for a local science museum that is not too far, we recommend checking out the Hall of Science in Queens. There are 450 exhibits, events, and workshops.

​If you are willing to venture into Manhattan, then you will want to go to the Museum of Natural History, the largest natural history museum in the world. Dinosaur and space-loving youngsters will be in heaven!

If you are interested in local history, you could visit on the of historic sites in the river towns. They are open seasonally and offer child-friendly events and programming, it's best to check their websites in advance for the optimal time to visit.

Budding artists and creative minds can get inspired at these art museums. Offering camps, events, special programming and more, these destinations are more than just spectator experiences.

If you have a child who is curious about firefighting, trains or math, these museums are for you!

Did we miss any? Please tell us in the comments below!
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The weather outside is frightful. But here are some ideas that can make things more delightful (if you don't mind spending a little money).

Your kids will squeal with delight as they enter these adrenaline pumping indoor arcades, trampoline parks and adventure centers. They're perfect to fill your children's days, and in some cases nights, with activity, action and adventure. Plus, they are loaded with options, making them the perfect destination for total family fun or a winter break drop off (note to self, check out the vacation camp options). Think laser tag, bowing, rock climbing, foam pits and so much more.

Here's our ridiculously awesome list of indoor fun zones for families in Westchester County, NY. Here's to the great indoors!

Trampoline and inflatable bounce centers are just what active kids need for a dose of fun, indoors. Not only can they jump for joy but they can also immerse themselves in fluffy foam pits, play bounce dodge ball & basketball, climb and tackle the ninja warrior course. These bounce parks offer birthday parties, special events (hello, neon nights and character bounces), camps and more so it's not a bad idea to stay in the know. Little ones can attend dedicated toddler times too. Take family time to a new level!

Children and adults can drop-in, run, play, jump and explore at these indoor arcades and entertainment centers. Rides, slides, sports, laser tag, video games, ping pong, climbing, virtual reality gaming, soft play and batting cages are all on the menu here. There's a lot going on! These venues also offer special events, birthday parties and drop off camps (bye mom, see you later). Why not send your kids for an amazing time during  winter break? Ready for some bumper cars?

Preschoolers can flex their little muscles at these junior gyms and play spaces, specifically tailored for them. Enjoy the PlayQuad, slides, soft play, gymnastics classes, parachute time and more with your young ones. It's "mommy and me" at its finest.

Adventure centers like The Play Place, Billy Beez, Play at The Westchester and Sportime USA have open play, while other gyms exclusively offer classes to registrants. In some cases there may be specific open gym times for enrolled families only. It's best to check the location's website for details before heading over.

These play spaces and gyms are also very familiar to many parents because they are very popular for birthday parties! But did you know that some also offer vacation and summer camps, parents' night out and more? So take advantage!

It's all the rage. Little ninjas can now experience innovative "ninja warrior" obstacle courses for fun and fitness. Courses appeal to warriors of all ages and abilities to build confidence and self esteem. Classes, open gyms, camps and birthday parties are all available so find the program and location that is right for your school-aged ninja.  Might your child be the next American Nina Warrior?

These more challenging adventures are perfect for school-age children and teens (and also moms and dads). Indoor rock climbing, circus arts, ropes courses and skydiving can take childrens' confidence to new heights! Some offer parties, events, camps, classes, drop-in and scheduled experiences. Belay on!

Strike up some family fun at the bowling alley! Children can enjoy bowling and arcade games with a swanky vibe under neon lights and music. Bowling alleys are perfect for birthday parties too. Put up the bumpers and everyone is a winner!

Who says summer is the only time for mini golf? Get a group together to play 18 holes of glow golf in the great indoors! Who knows, you may just get a hole in one.

Calling all thrill seekers! Indoor, high-speed electric go-karts are a safe and thrilling experience for children and adults. With a new multilevel race track, Grand Prix is better than ever. Racing enthusiasts may also want to check out the courses just outside the county. Offering kids parties, junior karting and an "arrive and drive" option, these tracks are sure to please drivers big and small. And if that isn't enough, you can take advantage of the arcades and bowling too. Start your engines!

Looking for a full day adventure that's spectacular? Try these amusement parks. While Legoland Westchester caters to a younger crowd, and probably not a full day excursion (maybe combine it with Rockin Jump which is right next door), a trip to the American Dream is an experience worth traveling for.

Did we miss any? If you have a local fun zone we missed and you love, please tell us! Share in the comments below.

According to Music Together, "The effects of music on children are magical. Music can be both energizing and calming, and it can enhance bonding and help with transitions."

Music can be enjoyed and learned at any age. In fact, Unicef refers to music as the "The soundtrack to your child's development."  The benefits of music for children are impressive, according to the the United Nations’ organization for children. Music can:

• Improve moods and empower young children by reducing stress levels. Even listening to sad music can be good thanks to its cathartic power, making it easier for children to get in touch with their emotions. 
• Stimulate the formation of brain chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin. When these are released, children are encouraged to share toys, empathize and trust others.
• Boost concentration skills and productivity.
• Improve learning and grades.
• Develop spatial intelligence – laying the ground for an interest in mathematics, engineering, computer science and architecture. 
• Improve vocabulary and creativity. 

With so much positive impact, it is no surprise that Westchester County is rich in music experience and education options for children at any age. Read this Must-Have List of Music Classes, Centers & More for Westchester Kids to find a location and curriculum that is right for your family. Included are classes for infants through adulthood. Start with mommy-and-me classes to bond musically with your baby. In toddlerhood and preschool, introduce them to toddler-friendly instruments and teach them how to make their own music through voice, rhythm and percussion. When they are older, voice and instrument lessons can give them the tools to boost confidence, creativity, patience and perseverance. Plus, group music classes, orchestra and band provide social benefits as well. Are you ready to get started?

Music contributes to child development and school readiness, including language and reading skills. These classes designed for young children will get your little ones rocking! Classes for the youngest musicians will be mommy-and-me while older children can attend drop off instruction. Are you ready to jam?
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​Belle School of Music
Multiple locations (Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers)- https://belleschool.com/locations.htm
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​Chloe's Kids
Multiple locations- https://chloeskids.com/classes-%2B-events

Crestwood Music Education Center
453 White Plains Road, Eastchester, NY

Groove
158 Larchmont Avenue, Larchmont NY​

Gymboree
450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale, NY 

Hoff-Barthelson Music School
25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY

Joanna's N'Bananas
Multiple locations- The Little Red Play, Zen Zone Sensory Gym 
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Larchmont Music Academy
2089 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY 

Mike Risko
144 Croton Avenue, Ossining, NY

Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY

Musical Munchkins
Multiple locations- http://musicalmunchkins.com/Locations.html

Music School of Westchester
1328 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY

Mustard Seed Music Studio
23 Valley Rd. Suite 1, Katonah, NY

RiverArts
Multiple locations

Shake Rattle and Roll Music
Multiple locations- https://shakerattleandrollmusic.com/class-locations/

Sounds Good Westchester (Music Together)
Multiple locations- https://www.soundsgoodwestchester.com/locations.aspx

Starlight Smtarbright Music (Music Together)
78 Garth Road, Scarsdale, NY

Songs for Seeds
Multiple locations (Armonk, Scarsdale, Port Chester)

Tig & Peach
125 Wolfs Lane Pelham, NY

The Little Red Play
17 Cedar Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Zen Zone Sensory Gym 
2055 Albany Post Road, Croton on Hudson, NY

Pro tip: also check out your local town libraries, recreation departments and community centers like the YMCA and JCC. They may provide free or reasonably priced classes, special events and camps as well.

Learning to play a musical instrument can improve mathematical learning, improve long-term memory, lead to better brain development, and even increase school scores. Playing an instrument is a rich and complex experience. It integrates information from the senses of hearing, vision, and touch. Plus, in a world of overachievers, playing an instrument can actually be a stress reliever! Performances can provide a goal to work toward, confidence and achievement for children.

Singing is an excellent outlet for self-expression. Plus it aids learning, brain and language development. It can also have social benefits if your child participates in signing competitions, concerts or performs with a group.

Each of these music schools have a unique range of offerings including private lessons, group lessons, e-lessons, band, summer or vacation camps, musical theater, singing, concerts, college prep and more. They differ in their  teaching methods and instrument types as well.

​Bedford Music
317 Railroad Avenue, Bedford Hills, NY

​Belle School of Music
Multiple locations (Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers)- https://belleschool.com/locations.htm

Bennett Academy of Performing Arts
225A Main Street, New Rochelle, NY

Choice Music Studios
In home lessons
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Cortlandt School of Performing Arts
24 Old Albany Post Road, Croton on Hudson, NY

Crestwood Music Education Center
453 White Plains Road, Eastchester, NY

Harrison Music School
253 Halstead Ave, Harrison, NY

Hoff-Barthelson Music School
25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY

Joanna's N'Bananas
Multiple locations

Lagond Music School
9 Haven Street, Elmsford, NY 
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Larchmont Music Academy
2089 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY
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Mike Risko
144 Croton Avenue, Ossining, NY

Music Conservatory of Westchester
216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY

RiverArts
Multiple locations

​The Mozartina Musical Arts Conservatory
43 Prospect Avenue, Tarrytown, NY

The Muzic Store Inc.
39 Cedar Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

NY Piano School
In-home lessons

Whether your child is active, creative, toddler or tween, here are some more ideas to stay entertained indoors in Westchester County, NY! For more indoor fun ideas check out our previous issue #1 and our new Indoor Fun page.

You can also look at our Directory and Blog. 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.

2A East Avenue, Larchmont, NY

404 Irvington Street, Pleasantville, NY

150 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford, NY​

Inspired by the hit television show American Ninja Warrior, Westchester Ninja Warriors offers adjustable obstacles for kids of every skill level regardless of age, skill and size. There is an agility course, swinging ropes, monkey bars, quintuple steps, climbing and warped walls. They believe it is important for kids to gain self–confidence and build self–esteem which is why they have designed courses for all ages and abilities.

They offer classes, camps and parties. Classes include Ninja Tykes, preschool ninjas ages 4-5, Lil’ Ninjas, 6-8 year olds, and Jr. Ninjas, 9-12 year olds.

You can register for open gym online for $25. It is offered at specific times only on Friday afternoon/evening and Saturday at 11:30am-1pm (ages 6-12).

125 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, NY

2055 Albany Post Rd, Croton-On-Hudson, NY

​Do you have a favorite or indoor play space you recommend? Share it with us in the comments below!

Is your child artsy? Creative minds will love these local art studios in Westchester County, NY. Whether you have a tween who is passionate about art or a preschooler who loves making slime, this list will give you numerous local options to keep those little (or not so little) fingers busy. 

If you're not a planner then you'll love that many of these places welcome walk-ins. In addition they can provide the perfect place to entertain youngsters since they offer special events, birthday parties, drop off camps (hooray!) and classes as well. And the best part... you won't have to clean up. What will your child's next masterpiece be?

Art Academy of Westchester
​145 Palisades Street, Suite 404, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Bethany Arts Center
40 Somerstown Road, Ossining, NY

Blue Door Arts Center
13 Riverdale Avenue, Yonkers, NY

Bott Shoppe
174 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY

Cedar Lane Arts Center
95 Broadway, Ossining, NY

Katonah Art Center
40-2 Radio Circle Drive Mount Kisco, NY
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One River Art School
112 S. Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY
2081 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY
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Pelham Art Center
155 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY

RAD ART School
217 E Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale, NY

Rye Arts Center
51 Milton Road, Rye, NY 

Scribble Art Workshop 
63 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Young at Art
1088 Central Park Avenue, Room 216, Scarsdale, NY

Bott Shoppe
174 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY

Curious On Hudson
77 Tarrytown Rd, Suite GNB, White Plains, NY

Digital Arts Experience
303 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, NY

iD Tech (summer)
Manhattanville College, Purchase, NY
Pace University - Westchester, Pleasantville, NY
Iona College, New Rochelle, NY

Jacob Burns Film Center
364 Manville Rd., Pleasantville, NY

The Picture House
175 Wolfs Lane Pelham, NY

Bead Everything
175 E. Post Rd., White Plains, NY

Painting with a Twist
365 Central Park Ave , Scarsdale, NY 
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​Muse Paintbar 
Ridge Hill, 265 Market Street, Yonkers, NY
84 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY

A Maze In Pottery
76 North State Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY
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Clay Art Center
40 Beech Street, Port Chester, NY
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Creative Corner
7 Addison Street, Larchmont, NY

Fun Craft 
590 Central Park Avenue Scarsdale, NY 
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Made
118 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 

Plaster Palace Pottery
2005 Palmer Ave., Larchmont, NY

Pottery on Hudson
St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, lower level, 2 Revolutionary Road, Ardsley, NY

The Pottery Factory
179 Main Street, Mount Kisco, NY

D.I.Y. Slime
​2A East Avenue, Larchmont, NY

Arts Westchester
31 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd Floor, White Plains, NY

Ossining Arts Council
​P.O Box 408, Ossining, New York
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RiverArts
414 Warburton Ave, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

Get crafty at a local retail store. Michael's in Hartsdale, Pelham, Port Chester and Yonkers offer classes and events for children. Some require advance registration. Your budding artist can also make a free craft at Lakeshore Learning in Scarsdale every Saturday from 11am-3pm.

Bring out your artistic side at a museum. The Hudson River Museum in Yonkers offers a Family Art Studio craft every Saturday and Sunday. 

What about your town? Many town recreation departments offer art classes, programs and activities. Same goes for  local libraries, which are always FREE!

Lastly, look at community centers, like the YMCA, YWCA and JCC. They typically have a robust offering of classes, events and resources you can sign up for.

Did we miss any? If you have a local art venue we missed and you love, please tell us! Share in the comments below.

Keep those rambunctious, creative, sporty, curious and active kids busy this fall and winter at these indoor hot spots in or near Westchester County, NY! Stay tuned. More indoor fun ideas are coming in issue #2.

For more ideas check out our Directory and Blog. 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.
​

Escape the Mystery Room
Jefferson Valley Mall, 650 Lee Blvd, Yorktown Heights, NY
Palisades Center, 3681 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY
Calling detectives of all ages! This is is your chance to be one in real-life.  How it works: you and your team are in a room for 50 minutes and you must find clues, solve puzzles and decipher hidden codes to escape one of our many themed rooms. There is a variety of levels of difficulty, making it fun for your youngest and your oldest (plus mom and dad too). Detectives 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations are highly recommended. For children under the age of 12, start with any Level 1 room. Superhero’s Adventure is very popular and great for kids.  Treasure Island is great for families. New at the Palisades: The Game Show Room. The standard cost is $25/person (plus tax) for one escape room experience. Children 6 and under are free with a paying adult. Good for birthday parties.

Spins Hudson
5 John Walsh Blvd., Peekskill, NY
If you don't mind heights then this may be your spot. Spins Hudson has the only outdoor/indoor ropes course in the Northeast challenging even the best climbers! There are two levels. There is also a 5,000-square-foot, two story laser tag arena outfitted with lights, fog, and bridges (children must be at least 42 inches tall, and seven years or older to play). Spins Hudson also has a 5,000 square feet massive redemption arcade for all you gamers out there.  With over 50 of the top industry games to play, VR gaming, and is the only video gaming entertainment center on the Hudson (who knew!). The newest addition: five unique climbing walks featuring Legos, Rubik’s Cubes and Space themes.
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Grand Prix New York & Spins Bowl
333 North Bedford Road 
Mount Kisco, NY
Thrill seekers make note. Kids can experience the excitement of driving a race car at Grand Prix New York.  Recreational indoor racing, bowling and virtual reality gaming are all on the menu here. NEW to the venue: a multilevel race track (note: if you are younger than 18 years old, a legal guardian's Photo ID and a signed Parental Consent Form are required). Or try the NEW massive ninja style course loaded with gravity defying obstacles. For the traditionalists, you can also go bowling. The Grand Prix arcade has over 100 of the top industry games and approximately 6, 000 square feet, some may say it is the most exciting redemption arcade in the Tri -State area. Games include The XD interactive thrill ride and Hologate virtual reality. 

​Palisades Center
1000 Palisades Center Dr, West Nyack, NY
Just across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo bridge is the Palisades Center, a four-level shopping and entertainment extravaganza located in Rockland County. Palisades Center is among the top ten most visited malls in America and offers over 200 stores, 16 sit-down restaurants, a bowling alley, ice rink, the world's tallest indoor ropes course, comedy club, and more.  If you are looking for entertainment, they have you covered.

• 5 WITS
  Ready for some live-action entertainment? Then head over to 5 Wits for cutting-edge fun that immerses you in realistic, hands-on adventures. Computer-controlled special effects and physical interaction put you in the center of the action, and will leave you feeling like you’re in a movie or video game. Recommended ages 7 and up. Younger kids are typically either frightened or don’t understand the challenges. All ages are admitted, however children under 13 MUST be accompanied by a ticketed adult 18 years or older. 

​AMC
Top off your trip to the mall with a kid-friendly flick. Enjoy the latest movies in comfort with new plush reclining seats. Also on site, an IMAX theatre, taking the big screen to the next level.

​Autobahn Indoor Speedway
Put your pedal to the metal. Kids can be race car drivers and enjoy speeds of up to 25MPH in extremely safe conditions. Junior karting is for children that are 8 and older, and at least 48” tall. Junior kart racers must be at least 48" tall and 8 years old. Adult kart racers must be at least 56" tall, at least 13 years old and less than 300 lbs. Racers under 18 must be accompanied by the parent on their first visit or the parent must complete this waiver signed by a parent or guardian.  No reservation necessary!

• Billy Beez
  This is indoor play bliss for kids of all ages. It's a massive 25,000 sq. ft. indoor play park. Activities range from slides to sports courts, tunnels to towers, ball blasters to bouncy trampolines. The majority of the park can be enjoyed by kids ages 1-17, plus there is a Mini Beez area dedicated to infants and toddlers. Children under the age of 18 must come with an adult.

Build-A-Bear Workshop
Well this is sweet. Bring your little loved one to Build-A-Bear for an experience that they are sure to remember. Build-A-Bear Workshop actively works to bring the Teddy Bear to life and give children an unforgettable furry friend. At Build-A-Bear, children can custom build, name and accessorize their stuffed animal and leave with a new best friend. Looking for a unique holiday gift? A gift certificate could be something special.

Color Me Mine
For the art lovers and creative minds out there, head to Color Me Mine. There are hundreds of ceramic shapes to choose from and dozens of colors to paint with. The design center is stocked with over twenty thousand images you can use to design your piece any way you like. For all ages and skill levels. Reservations are available. Check out Kids Night Out: once a month they host a drop-off events for kids ages 6 and up where they watch a movie, have some snacks, and of course paint! No parents allowed (YES!).

• Dave & Buster's

Food, games, billiards and more to keep everyone entertained and their stomachs full. Note: children under 18 must come with an adult who is at least 25. Each adult may bring no more than 6 children.​

Ferris Wheel 
The ferris wheel is a Palisades tradition not to be missed.  After all, it's only $2 and reaches 68 feet. Not to mention it is the perfect spot for a selfie!

Glitter & Glam
Ooh la la! It's spa time for the young ladies. Check out the best girl spa party destination specializing in making every girl’s dream come true via themed parties and luxurious day spa services. Tip: check out the upcoming events like the Winter Formal hosted by Cinderella and Tiana.

Lucky Strike
Lucky Strike West Nyack provides a killer time for all ages. There are 12 premium lanes, 6 competition ready billiards tables, and an intimate game room with air hockey & roller ball. Lucky Strike features huge projectors & plasma TVs (streaming MLB, NBA, NFL & others around the clock), a chef-driven gastropub menu and hand-crafted libations.

OMG Entertainment
Virtual reality–loving kids will love OMG Entertainment’s Virtual Reality 9D movie experience. There are eight different movies that you can choose from. It ticks all the boxes with its addictive quality and you will come back asking for more. You will be surprised to discover something new every time you stop by.

Palisades Carousel
Enjoy a classic carousel ride that is fun for the whole family.

• Palisades Climb
  This is the home of the world’s tallest indoor ropes course. Palisades Climb will provide adventure, thrills and excitement for the adventurous at heart. Located indoors on Level 4.

• Palisades Ice Rink
  Get your skate on! The ice-skating rink has public skating, DJ nights, figure skating, hockey & lessons to keep littles ones moving in the colder months.

Party Animals
Little ones are going to love this place. Ride on on the back of a rolling motorized version of their favorite animal, get your face painted or hang out in the play area. In addition there are fun activities for children every day,  arts & crafts.

What is your favorite indoor spot? Tell us in the comments below.

Every young ballerina dreams about dancing on their toes, but when is the right time to start? 
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Although some give an age that is typical for being ready to go en pointe (opinions range from 10-13), it is something that is very different depending on the dancer. The proper strength and placement is necessary for safely dancing in pointe shoes, so some dancers may be ready later than others of the same age group. 

Many schools allow students to begin wearing pointe shoes before they are physically ready. This can be detrimental to the dancer later on, especially since most students are still growing when they begin pointe. If a student starts pointe before they are strong enough, they can easily develop poor habits and even serious injuries. 

A dancer ready for pointe should be able to stand in releve in turned out second position and create a straight line from their knees to the balls of their feet, with the arch of their foot not falling below that line. The dancer should be able to easily perform multiple releves on one foot onto a high demi pointe without losing strength in their core, turnout, or compensating placement in their spine and hips. 
​
There are many other signs that teachers look for to determine if a student is ready to start pointe, so it is important to consult with a trusted teacher first. Although it may be hard to hear that your student may not be quite ready, it is always a decision made in the dancer's best interest. 
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Cold weather has arrived and 'tis the season for ice skating. Indoor rinks are the go-to place for children to learn to skate, play hockey, attend skating camp, have a birthday party and more-- all in a warmer setting than the great outdoors. Most indoor ice rinks have concessions (phew!) and skate rentals. Be sure to check the rink's schedule for open skate times. Perhaps best of all, skating rinks give kids an opportunity to stay active during the colder months, which everyone desperately needs!

On the other hand, outdoor skating rinks offer the magic of the season, with a classic backdrop to take in the authentic Upstate New York winter experience. Photoworthy indeed! Take in some fresh air and get those muscles working. Don't forget your earmuffs and mittens!

What is your favorite place to skate? Share in the comments below or take a selfie and share with us on Instagram!

Westchester County

​Cross County Shopping Center Pop-Up Holiday Skating Rink
8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY (at Center Court near Gap)
Limited time offer! Open now through January 5th  on select days. Admission is $10 per person and includes skates and a one hour skate session. You may bring your own skates, however, admission is the same. Must be 5 years old to skate or 42" tall. Character skating events are detailed on their website. 

Westchester Parks Outdoor Skating
Multiple locations
Looking for a nostalgic outdoor skating experience? Westchester County’s ponds and lakes are the perfect scene for a family skating day. Mountain Lakes Park (North Salem), Tibbetts Brook Park (Yonkers), Twin Lakes (Eastchester), Wampus Pond (Armonk) and Willson's Woods (Mount Vernon) all offer skating in the winter.  No rentals are available so pack your skates! The ice is checked daily at all locations for safety. When the white flag with the green ball or sign is posted indicating safe conditions, ice skating is permitted seven days a week during daylight hours. For your own safety, it is suggested that you check conditions before venturing over to the park. For more information call (914) 864-PARK. Admission is free with the exception of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation where parking is $5 with a Park Pass, $10 without a pass.
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Westchester Winter Wonderland
Kensico Dam Plaza, One Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla, NY
​Uniquely Westchester! Open only during the holiday season, Westchester Winter Wonderland invites you to come skate and enjoy many other festive attractions at the Kensico Dam. The outdoor rink is lit and surrounded with twinkling holiday decor. It is open November 29th through January 4th (closed December 24th and 25th).  Admission includes unlimited skating (with skates included) on the outdoor ice rink. General admission is $20 per person and children ages 0-3 are free. 

​Notable, Just Outside Westchester County

Bear Mountain Ice Rink
Bear Mountain State Park, 3020 Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY
Picturesque skating at the scenic Bear Mountain State Park may be one experience to add to your holiday bucket list. The large, uncovered rink is open for public skating from November 2nd through March 1st. Skating hours extend into the evening. The rink does close occasionally if the weather does not cooperate or if there are mechanical issues. It's best to call ahead to make sure skating is open before trekking over there. Figure skate rentals are available as well as lockers and refreshments. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here. You can view their special holiday events and hours here. You may also wish to venture over to the Bear Mountain Inn while you are there, and perhaps reserve a breakfast with Santa. The Skating Rink is on the south end of the parking field bear the Merry-Go-Round.

Central Park
Wollman Rink (Enter at 59th Street and 5th or 6th Avenue), Lasker Rink (North end of Central Park, nearest street entrance is 110th St and Lenox Ave.)  and Conservatory Water (East Side between 72nd and 75th Streets )
How about outdoor skating with scenic views of the New York City skyline?  Then Central Park it is! There are two main ice skating rinks in Central Park, Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink. Each have skate and locker rentals. Wollman Rink is open from late October to early April, weather permitting. Details are available here.  Lasker Rink is open from late October to mid-March, weather permitting. Details are available here. Conservatory Water offers free ice skating (when the ice is deemed safe).. No rentals are available so don't forget to pack your skates. Call ahead to confirm skating is open before your trip.

The Rink Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, 5th Ave between 49th and 50th Streets, New York, NY
The it-rink! One of New York City’s most celebrated attractions, The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a New York City tradition for all ages. Located in midtown, the rink is the perfect spot to visit during a holiday trip to the city, as it is just steps from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and other attractions like shopping, Radio City Music Hall's Rockettes, Times Square, Broadway and the American Girl store. Open skating, lessons and exclusive wintertime experiences are all on the menu here. Online advance reservations are available. General Admission skating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. No advance reservations or online sales are available for General Admission - tickets are sold only in the Skate House. To avoid waiting on line during the busy holiday season, you can make advance reservations to skate through the VIP Igloo.

Westchester County
Ebersole Ice Rink
Delfino Park , 110 Lake Street, White Plains, NY
Skate lessons for all levels, hockey teams, and public skating sessions are offered here throughout the season. The rink is open from mid October through late March. Access their pricing and schedule here.

Hommocks Park Ice Rink
140 Hommocks Road, Larchmont, NY
The season runs September 28th through June 14th. The Hommocks Park Ice Rink offers lessons, public skating, Stick and Puck Sessions, appreciation days, character skates and more year-round recreational community events.   Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Ice Hutch
 655 Garden Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 
The Ice Hutch serves the skating community all year-round by offering skating lessons for all levels (ages 4+), weekly public skating, figure skating and hockey sessions. Freestyle sessions for figure skaters and hockey Stick Time sessions are also available. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Murray's Skating Center
348 Tuckahoe Rd., Yonkers, NY
Public skating hours are open early September through the end of April. Offering skating lessons, hockey and recreational skating, Murray's Skating Center offers the largest weekly public skating schedule in the area. Most weekend sessions feature a live DJ.  Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Playland Ice Casino
100 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY
Public skating, tot programs, learn to skate lessons, camps, hockey programs and more are all available. Two rinks are used for public skating and are equipped with state-of-the-art music systems and dance lighting. Additional skating sessions are added around the holidays. Friday night teen skating featuring a DJ and lights is held between September and April. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

The Harvey School: Evarts Rink
The Harvey School, 240 Jay Street, Katonah, NY
The fully enclosed ice rink is home to Harvey Hockey and offers a variety of instructional skating programs. The arena operates year-round. Please note skate rentals are not available. Access their public skating (walk-on) pricing and schedule here.

Westchester Skating Academy
91 Fairview Drive, Elmsford, NY
Westchester Skating Academy is one of the premiere skating facilities in the area. It is one of the only NHL twin rink facilities in Westchester County. They offer public skating, holiday camps & clinics, learn to skate lessons, hockey lessons & camps plus hockey leagues for children and adults. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

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​Notable, Just Outside Westchester County

American Dream Rink
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ
Ready for something new? The Rink is a NHL-size ice skating and hockey facility, located inside the brand-new, ginormous American Dream mall in East Rutherford, NJ. It has three viewable tiers and can hold thousands of spectators. Activities include open skating, figure skating, hockey tournaments, events and more. Open seven days a week, hours vary. Open skate tickets can be purchased in person at the rink, access their pricing here. 

Brewster Ice Arena
63 Fields Lane, Brewster, NY
Similar to the indoor facilities in Westchester County, this arena offers learn to skate programs, hockey programs, clinics, camps, travel hockey, adult hockey, fitness programs and freestyle figure skating. Access their winter skating schedule here. Pricing can be accessed here.

Chelsea Piers Connecticut
One Blackly Road, Stamford, CT
For the sports-enthusiasts out there, it may be worth a trip out to CT to Chelsea Piers, located in Stamford. There is a whole slew of drop-in sports and activities to do. For skating, they offer a dual-rink facility that operates seven days a week. Skaters of all ages and ability are welcome. Activities include ice hockey, league play, figure skating, general skating, birthday parties and more. Chelsea Piers is the premier ice skating facility in Fairfield County.

Palisades Center Ice Rink
Palisades Center, 4900 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY
Calling all shoppers! Similar to the rinks above, there is a full suite of skating offerings-- open skating, figure skating, hockey, camps. However, this rink sits inside the massive Palisades Center, just across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The mall is bursting with tons of entertainment options, shopping and food. So you can make a day of it.  Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

STEM, while a short, seemingly harmless word on the surface, can present a variety of challenges for any student or parent who is unfamiliar.

Science, technology, engineering, AND math? That’s a lot to cram into such a simple acronym.

If you’ve been wanting to get your kid or teen more involved in STEM, but have been discouraged by any number of roadblocks, we are here to help!

Believe it or not, sparking a passion for STEM and getting a child started along their journey can begin right now—with robotics.


Breaking into STEM through robotics
One of the most effective ways for any child to get going with STEM is through robotics. Thanks to its hands-on nature, the availability of robotics clubs at school, simple robot toys for home, and nearby robotics classes or summer camps, it has never been easier.

Robotics clubs at school
In case you didn’t know, a robotics club is a gathering of students, who after school, will get together to learn and work with - you guessed it - robots. Such clubs typically take place in a school classroom, and are moderated by a member of the teaching staff or school administration.

Clubs sometimes compete at local robotics competitions, where teams of students are tasked with designing and building a robot to take on opponents in a series of challenges.

The main benefit for those interested in STEM - but unsure of where to begin - is that a robotics club is a relatively easy, low-cost way to get your student involved.

Such clubs help to strengthen your student’s STEM skills, both hard and soft. Creativity and problem-solving are essential in building a 'bot that can overcome obstacles, and your child will have to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions when the robot doesn’t perform as expected.

Last but not least, hanging out with like-minded peers is always beneficial, providing a valuable way for kids to make friends and build their networks.

With robotics toys, at home
Many of today’s “toys” barely resemble the traditional definition of the word thanks to the inclusion of different educational components.

For instance, the SparkFun Inventor’s Kit (SIK) is a great way to get your child started with coding and hardware interaction using the Arduino programming language.

I know what you’re thinking...coding and programming? What does this have to do with robotics? And, I thought this was supposed to be an easy way to get involved?

Well, coding is the underpinning of robotics, providing the instructions a robot needs to read in order to execute actions.

And toys make coding and robotics easy. For example, the SIK includes everything your child needs to complete five in-depth projects consisting of 16 interconnected circuits. These projects teach everything from blinking an LED to reading sensors and more. The culminating project is your child’s very own autonomous robot!

This is just one example of many different available robotics “toys” that are useful in getting kids and teens interested in robotics. LEGO, Cozmo, and VEX are additional options to look into.


At summer camp, with a robotics course
One of the biggest benefits of summer camp is that it allows campers to build a unique interest in something they might not otherwise have a chance to explore.

While many schools don’t offer courses in robotics, summer camps do. They also provide an environment free of pressure, homework, and tests.

Think of a robotics summer camp as a combination of robotics club and school, to an extent, where students get to experience the camaraderie and teambuilding of a club, and the learning aspect of school.

In the end, however, an entirely new experience is created; one that doesn’t really resemble a club or school at all, where kids can explore to their heart’s content, without being bound by curriculum and large, impersonal classrooms.

Instead, they have the freedom to create the projects they want to create, and can receive personalized learning thanks to small class sizes.

Summer camp is a unique venue for growth, allowing kids to become independent and self-confident, while socializing and making new friends, and even learning new skills, like robotics.

Ready to get started?
Summer is just a few months away, and programs are filling up fast!

We encourage you to consider iD Tech, the world’s #1 summer STEM camp for ages 7-19, with over 20 years of experience and 400,000 alumni

Programs are held at 150 prestigious campuses in the USA, Europe, and Asia, including Manhattanville College, Pace University, Iona, Stanford, NYU, HKU, Imperial College London, and University of Cambridge.

Courses are led by top-tier instructors, so students build in-demand skills for futures in robotics, coding, game development, design, and more. Guaranteed small class sizes ensure personalized learning for all skill levels.

Exclusive to Westchester NY Moms readers, you’ll receive $75 off when you register with code WNYMOMS19 before 8/22/19.
​Courses sell-out quickly. Get started today at iDTech.com or call (888) 709-8324 for personalized course recommendations. Make unlimited updates to your registration up to 3 weeks before your session with no fees.