Check out these three kid-friendly recipes below!

1. Strawberry Yogurt Pops

Strawberry Yogurt Pops are perfect for a healthy summer treat, and the best part is that they’re easy enough for anyone to make! While we recommend that you do any chopping or pre-measuring, it is easy to have your child plop the following ingredients in a blender:

– 2 cups of strawberries (frozen or fresh)

– 2/3 cup Greek yogurt

– ½ teaspoon of lemon juice

– ÂĽ teaspoon vanilla extract

– 3 tablespoons honey

Blend until smooth. If you have a mold for ice pops, pour the mixture in and freeze for about 8 hours. If you don’t have a mold, small paper cups with popsicle sticks work perfectly, too! After frozen, take it out of the mold or cups and enjoy! This treat makes for a perfect afternoon summer snack or even as part of a balanced breakfast. Want to get adventurous? Try out different types of fruit, depending on your children’s preferences, or explore new flavors!

2. Pizza Pinwheels

Pizza Pinwheels are a fun new take on a beloved classic and couldn’t be easier to make! Gather the ingredients below, along with two baking sheets and parchment paper, and enjoy! Again, we recommend pre-measuring, at least for the youngsters, and then letting them lay on the ingredients.

– 320g sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry at room temperature

– 6 tablespoons of pizza sauce

– 1 cup of mozzarella

– OPTIONAL HERBS: ÂĽ tsp Italian herb blend, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, a pinch of salt and pepper!

– OPTIONAL TOPPINGS: Giving children a say is great, as is letting them choose what they want in their creations. Is there a pepperoni lover in your home? Do you have any family favorite veggies? Toss them on!

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. After leaving the puff pastry to get to room temperature, gently roll it onto the parchment paper. Children can help with this- let them get their hands dirty! Next, let children use the back of a spoon to spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough—be sure to leave about 2cm of a sauce-free border. Let children sprinkle the mozzarella and any other desired toppings or herbs- we think that pepperoni is perfect for pizza pinwheels! After your pizzas are covered with your favorites, start on the long side and tightly roll it. Then, parents, slice your pinwheels to be about an inch thick and place them flat on their side so the spiral faces the sky. Make sure they have room to spread out! Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Serve and enjoy!

3. S’more on a Stick

S’mores on a Stick are delicious, fun, AND require zero campfires. Here’s what you’ll need for your new favorite and easy-to-make kid-friendly recipe dessert:

– Jumbo marshmallows

– 1 cup of milk (or dark!) chocolate

– Pretzel rods

– 2-4 graham crackers

First, grab a Ziploc bag and let kiddos pop in some graham crackers. Seal it tight (get the air out), and then let them SMASH IT!! Keep smashing the bag until all the crackers are destroyed, creating almost a sandy texture, then pour into a wide bowl. Next, in a microwave-safe bowl, microwave a cup of milk or dark chocolate for 30-second intervals until smooth– be sure to stir it each time to ensure you aren’t burning it. Grab your pretzel rods and let children stick one in the center of the jumbo marshmallow like a stick and you’re about to roast it.Ěý Have children dip marshmallows into the chocolate and roll through graham cracker crumbs while the chocolate coating is still wet. Et voila, you have a s’more on a stick- enjoy!

Learning just a few simple recipes like these can encourage a love for cooking. It also helps to develop fine motor skills, boosts self-confidence, and can help children who struggle with trying new things. Cooking is also a great way to explore other cultures! When cooking with children, it is often necessary to remember that it doesn’t have to look perfect to taste good. If you’re looking for someone to help teach your kiddos how to get creative in the kitchen, contact us at Nanny Authority today! Email info@nannyauthority.com, call (973) 466-2669, or visit www.nannyauthority.com. Wishing you a delicious day!

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GOING TO A PARTY:

HOW TO RESPOND TO INVITES

When replying to an invitation, begin by sharing your gratitude with a message along the lines of, “Thank you for the invitation! We cannot wait to be a part of the special day!” It’s always polite to RSVP early– this can make it way easier for the parents throwing a party to plan! As simple as this seems, it’s often something that gets assumed and leaves parents to scramble and play detective– be sure to provide the name(s) of who will be attending! If you’d like to bring any of your children who were not explicitly invited, check in with the host beforehand to prevent any future awkwardness. PRO TIP: RSVP even if you cannot make it and thank the host for thinking of you.

GIFT ETIQUETTE

Unless it is otherwise noted, it’s traditional birthday party etiquette to bring a gift. If the invite says not to, then just enjoy the day! If you don’t know what to get as a gift, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the parent what their child may like. PRO TIP: We recommend avoiding living gifts. While a new bearded dragon may be a joy for children, it’s also a very good way to make an enemy out of a fellow parent.

If you’re looking for present inspiration, check out this website:

WHAT TO WEAR

When selecting your party outfit, be sure to keep some key details in mind. Is there a theme? Are there any known activities planned? Usually wearing something casual and comfortable, such as a nice plain T-shirt and jeans, is perfect! Most of the time, you’ll want to wear something you can move around in — you never know what kind of wacky shenanigans you’ll endure!

HOSTING A PARTY:

HOW TO WORD INVITATIONS

When making the invites, include the name and the new age of the birthday kiddo! Boldly address necessary details such as location and time, and clarify when the party is over — parties are great but stragglers, not so much.

List an RSVP deadline with contact information – this will ease a ton of stress from planning and things like food estimations. PRO TIP: While paper invites can be wonderful sometimes, an e-vite, especially for larger parties, can make it super easy to keep track of the guest list!

Specify if parents are expected to stay (most parents with children under 5 will stay, but it’s always good to communicate that expectation clearly).

If you would rather no one bring gifts, it’s totally fine to say something like, “No presents please, just your presence.” When expecting a gift, only send a wish list when specifically asked for one. Otherwise, this can be considered a bit rude and presumptive.

WHO TO INVITE

When figuring out who to invite, it’s good to start with a simple baseline question: would you like a big event or a quaint celebration? Consider the family/family friends who you’d like to join and who the day wouldn’t be complete without. Once children are school-aged, a new factor comes into play: do we invite the whole class? If you’re looking for a smaller gathering, it’s okay to invite just a couple of your kid’s friends. A good rule of thumb is that if you plan on inviting over half the class, invite everyone! This can help prevent hurt feelings and add to the fun!

HOW LONG SHOULD IT LAST?

The length of the party can be determined based on the age of the children. For toddlers, try between 1-1.5 hours. For older kids, about 5 and up, between 1.5-2 hours is a great length. If you’d like to have a longer celebration, just be sure to provide good snacks to munch on and entertainment to enjoy. This can look like games, crafts, a movie, or more!

THEME/ ACTIVITY IDEAS

Having an exciting theme can make the day extra special! If you have a child who loves Legos, try having a competition for who can build the best creation or get materials so the partygoers can build themselves as Lego figures—this also makes for an AWESOME party favor! For activities like this, make sure to keep the ages of all guests in mind—some of the small Lego pieces are a bit too little for toddlers. If you have a Disney-loving kiddo, try coloring pages, pin the carrot on the Olaf, and get a projector to make your living room or backyard into a private theater. Make it cozy with blankets for seating and perfect the night with a DIY movie snack bar.

It’s always important to have enough supervision, especially for more active parties! If you plan on having an employee, such as your nanny, assist on the day of, it is common to offer them some additional compensation for the extra duties provided. This is especially true if you plan on a nanny handling most of the supervision.

For summer birthdays, a memorable party can take place at the pool! If you go this route, ensure there is additional supervision. For tips on pool safety, click here:

THANK YOU NOTES

If you choose to open presents at the party, have your kiddo thank the gift giver during this time. Have someone keep a list of who gave what so when it comes time to write your cards, there is no confusion!

Grandparents and other extended family members are typically supposed to be the priority when sending out thank-you notes. School and family friends should be quick to follow. While this is not a strict rule, many folks enjoy getting a handwritten card. Address who it’s for, thank them for coming and for what they got you, say why you loved it, and send them warm wishes!

Do you need help planning your child’s next birthday party or are you looking for some ideas to bring this kind of birthday magic into your kid’s everyday lives? Think about reaching out to find a fun childcare specialist today! ĐÓ°É´«Ă˝ can be reached at (973) 466-2669 or info@nannyauthority.com.

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Help introduce your children to the vast topic of weather by teaching them about something we use every second of every day- AIR! Besides air being rather necessary for most of us living creatures, it is a very interesting topic when we study how air affects the world around us and how it relates to weather. While we cannot see air, we CAN feel it! According to National Geographic, wind, to put it simply, “is the movement of air caused by the uneven heating of the Earth by the sun.”

Studying the wind helps us have a better, more tangible, explanation of weather AND many creative activities can be used to introduce children to such topics and help keep them engaged with the world around them.

Start your lessons on wind by trying one (or more!) of the below activities:

Kite Flying

This is great for all ages! Buy a kite with your favorite colors or TV show character. If you want to be super adventurous, try making one from scratch!

For instructions and inspiration, click here:

Bubbles

Who doesn’t love bubbles?! Try getting a variety of different bubble wand shapes or a bubble machine! For an extra dose of magic, try adding 5-10 drops of food coloring into your soapy solution to make for a colorful creation. Ask your children about their observations of how different bubble sizes fare in the wind.

Try your hand at at-home bubble wands by following these steps:

Wind Chimes

Wind chimes are not only beautiful to listen to, but they’re super fun to make! There are a ton of different ways you can do this, but even using string and bottle caps and then tying them to a tree branch does the trick! For older kids, try upping the challenge by using beads and thread to make their chimes.

Pinwheels

Dating back to 400 B.C. China, pinwheels (also known as whirligigs) have been a symbol of joy and good luck. Playing with pinwheels can be a great way for those high-energy kiddos to get fresh air and exercise. They make a lovely decoration for your yard, which children can then study as the wind changes. Do you know what else can make a pinwheel turn? Blowing on it but human energy is a lesson for another time!

Make your own pinwheel by following this guide:

Wind Flags

Design your own windsocks by decorating any sheet of paper, rolling it (make sure to leave a hole large enough to catch the breeze) then taping it, and attaching streamers to the bottom of it! See your beautiful creations flowing in the wind!

For detailed instructions, click here: .

Creating fun children’s activities for these blustery days, and helping them learn, can help create a shift from fear of wind to excitement for it. If your child is experiencing anxiety around the weather, it may be rooted in fear of the unknown. Try teaching them about what different types of weather mean– this can be especially helpful for neurodivergent children who love to learn. Being able to understand what’s happening and knowing the facts can relieve anxiety as well as create excitement for it!

Check out these links for kid-friendly explanations about the wind: & . For slightly older kiddos who thrive with hands-on learning, try conducting a science experiment at home to teach them about wind and why/ how it works. From making your sail-powered car to creating a tornado in a jar, there are so many ways to educate your children about our beautiful planet. For more ideas, click here: .

If you’re looking for someone to come bring some outdoor fun to you and your children, contact us at info@nannyauthority.com today!

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Weekend Routines Vary by Family

Weekend routines look different for each family. Get creative to find what kind of schedule would work best for yours by setting goals. Some of these goals could look like supporting your child with improving at a sport or passion or getting chores done. It could be something like spending more time together and learning how to better communicate with one another. As your children grow, these routines and goals will too.

Try having part of your weekend set aside for fun outdoor activities. (for ideas, check out our last blog post: “Mental [and Physical] Health: The Benefits of Getting Outside With [or Without] the Kids – PLUS Activity Ideas!”). Getting outside together is a great way to start your day and getting plenty of Vitamin D, and exercise promotes overall health.

When children are old enough, signing them up for sports, lessons, or other extracurriculars can be a fun way to explore new hobbies, practice social skills, and enhance time management. Who knows—maybe you have the next Mozart under your roof!

One on One time is Important

Another great habit to make space for is one-on-one time with one or both parents, especially if there are multiple children in the house. Having specific time set aside for each child can help grow your relationship. It can also help them see how important they are as individuals. Try having a special movie night with dad or spa morning with mom. Perhaps set a brunch date at your child’s favorite restaurant.

Spending time indoors makes it easy to rely on TV and phones. Finding the appropriate amount of screen time for your kids can often be tricky. Try setting firm boundaries and expectations to limit frustration with this rule. Creating a routine can look something like screen time only being allowed between specific hours. Suggest a movie night, Sunday morning cartoons, or whatever works best for your family. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry suggests different amounts of allotted time for kids depending on their ages. To read more about this, click here: .

Practice Healthy Habits

Sleep may be one of the most important routines to keep up, even for adults! Though it may be tempting to sleep in on the weekends, doing so for more than an hour can begin to shift your circadian rhythm which will make waking up on weekdays more difficult. Bedtime is also a great time to practice healthy habits and learn more about why hygiene is important. Keeping up with practicing good hygiene and getting a full night’s rest can reduce sickness and increase self-worth.

If you’re human, there’s a chance that you use the weekends to be productive and get things done that you may not have had time to do during the week. Things like laundry, grocery shopping, meal prepping, deep cleaning, or fixing that thing you’ve been putting off for months. How many of these can easily become family activities and shared responsibilities, part of a weekend family routine? Check out our “Chores for Kids” post, which thoroughly covers age-appropriate responsibilities.

Do it Gradually.

If you do not currently have a family routine and you’d like to start one, we suggest making the shift gradual. Don’t feel like you have to change or create a rigorous schedule all at once—this can become overwhelming. Instead, try starting with a basic and loosely structured day to allow for change. Over time, start to build up what a weekend routine looks like for your family. Be sure to ask your kids for input on things they would like to do. At the end of the day, you are in charge.

Giving children options such as which activities you’d like to do together or which story to read at bedtime can encourage creative thinking and boost their confidence. If you are looking for extra assistance with childcare on the weekends and would like to find someone who can help set a routine for your family, email us at info@nannyauthority.com or visit nannyauthority.com today!

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Fresh air, sunlight, and exposure to green spaces have all been shown to raise our serotonin levels, producing the same effects as medications such as antidepressants. Serotonin plays a crucial role in many functions of the human body, such as sleep, and influences our memory, mood, and ability to retain information or focus. Normal and increased levels of serotonin help to keep us calm and happy! Additionally, being exposed to natural light provides a nice boost to our circadian rhythm, to help us sleep better at night and function during the day, and sunlight on human skin synthesizes vitamin D, which is shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression. suggests that getting even 120 minutes of natural light per week is enough to start seeing these health benefits.

Spending time outdoors is so important for the human body, and we think Henry David Thoreau said it best when he said, “Nature is doing her best each moment to make us well—she exists for no other end. Do not resist her.”

If you are looking for fun ways to get outside with (or without) the kids, try one of the following activities below:

The Benefits of a Walk or Hike

This may be an obvious one, but let’s start this list off with a good old-fashioned walk outside. No matter where you live, from the mountains to the coast, a walk on a beautiful day never gets old! Even a simple 10-minute stroll a day can significantly improve your mood and improve heart health. A great way to make this fun for children is by introducing an engaging activity like eye spy, animal watching, or something creative like making a nature bracelet. Get a simple piece of Scotch or duct tape and wrap a piece around your child’s wrist with the sticky side pointing outwards—be sure to leave enough room so they can slide it off after your walk. As you walk, they can add flower petals, leaves, and more to it. By the end, they’ll be rocking a stylish, all-natural, look!

Sidewalk Chalk Gallery

If you have some creative kiddos, purchase washable sidewalk chalk and make your very own art gallery right outside your home! This is a great choice for some folks who may not necessarily find a walk very stimulating and still helps to get some fresh air and vitamin D and boost those serotonin levels. Some other benefits can include developing executive functioning skills, fine motor development, and even social skills! If art is not your thing, then maybe you prefer a good, old-fashioned, round of hopscotch. Check out this link to browse ideas for sidewalk chalk games

Tree Tag!

Head on down to your local park and start up a game of Tree Tag. This is like the game Tag but with a fun twist—trees are marked as “Safe Zones!” For older kids, try adding on rules to complicate the game such as only allowing them 10 seconds per tree or only allowing a handful of trees to be marked as “safe.” This activity is not only great for spending time outdoors but is a nice form of exercise and bonding.

Visit a Botanical Garden

Get some sunshine while learning about new plant species! Soak in beautiful new colors and fragrances by walking through a botanical garden. Check in with your local garden because many offer community programs from composting classes to beekeeping. This is an especially great option benefits curious children who are excited to learn more about the world around them.

Geocaching

Have you ever wanted to go on a treasure hunt? Try Geocaching! Starting back in the year 2000, people began hiding small containers with little gifts inside for anyone to find. When you do find one and you decide what treasure you’d like to claim, be sure to replace it with something of equal or greater value for the next person. This can be an exciting way to get the whole family outside and into adventure mode. Put on your detective hats and download the free official Geocaching app to start your search! Visit their website to learn more:

Getting plenty of outdoor time is one of the best ways to improve both your physical and mental health. By getting sunlight, fresh air, and immersing yourself in nature, the risk of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression along with physical conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease decrease significantly. If you’re looking for someone to help bring the fun outdoors, contact us at info@nannyauthority.com today!

Sources:

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Who does not love soaking in the sun between June and August? Summer is a wonderful time of the year when families can rest and recharge in between the school season and often splish and splash in the water to beat the summer heat. While water offers ample opportunities to cool off, build confidence and have fun, it is important to remember that water poses a great threat, particularly to young children. Statistically speaking, more children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. Here are some water safety tips to keep your children safe while enjoying summertime.

SWIM LESSONSĚý

1. First and foremost, providing children with the resources necessary to float, tread water, swim, and enter and exit the water are life-saving skills. Swim lessons instill confidence in both children and parents to ensure everyone can enjoy the water safely. Learning to swim can significantly reduce the risk of drowning, especially in toddlers through adolescent children.

INFANT SWIMMING RESOURCEĚý

2. While conventionally, swim lessons are often reserved for older toddlers and children, some families have begun investing in water safety programs such as Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) to provide even the youngest beachgoers with the possible skills needed to survive finding themselves alone in the water. Unlike traditional swim lessons, ISR focuses on skills such as flipping over and learning to float for children 6 months and up in the case of an emergency. For families who may have pools in their yards or homes that are easily accessible to the ocean’s edge, it can be far too easy for little ones to find themselves in a dangerous situation. While there is research that supports the efficacy of self-rescue programs, not all parents are proponents of the ISR method, citing concerns over possible trauma they fear with ISR programs. You can read more about ISR .

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3. The difference a secure barrier or fence can make with water safety cannot be understated. Too often, preventable accidents happen where children stray from a supervising eye and reach for a toy that fell into a pool or excitedly go into the bathtub while a caregiver or parent is grabbing something from a separate room. Pools should have secure, self-latching gates to prevent children from entering a pool area unsupervised. The pool fences should clearly separate play areas in your yard from any swimming areas. The same rules apply to those with access to nearby beaches, though this is often less of a concern. In regards to water safety in your home, we advise against leaving children unattended in the bathroom with a full bathtub, and if you need to step away from a child during bathing, physically remove little ones from the area while your attention is elsewhere.

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4. Less thought of, but equally important is what you choose to dress your baby and toddlers in when going to enjoy the ocean air or sit poolside. Color selection can play a crucial role in helping to keep your kids safe and the brighter the better! In an emergency, popular colors such as light blue, white or green can be hard if not nearly impossible to see when fully submerged.

FLOTATION DEVICESĚý

5. Make sure you have age-appropriate life jackets when you are around natural bodies of water whether that be a lake, ocean, or even a pool – even if your child knows how to swim. Life jackets and flotation devices are excellent precautions to take when on a family boating trip or enjoying jet skis!

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BRING A BUDDY

6. Children should never be left to swim alone. While this may be an obvious tip, reminding children to wait for an adult and ensure there is supervision in the form of a caregiver or lifeguard is important!

The above are just a few ways to keep your children safe when going for a swim this summer. Heading to your next outing prepared can look different depending on what kind of body of water you may be heading to. Keep kids prepared and talk about what to do if they find themselves alone in a pool area and how to stay safe at the beach by spotting riptides and how to handle the situation if they are caught in one. The summer is a time to unwind, stay cool, and have fun, and with a little bit of mindfulness and a great team that prioritizes safety around your family, you can have the best summer ever!

Looking for someone to lend a hand with your kiddos by the pool? In need of a second pair of eyes to supervise and keep your little ones safe? Give us a ring today at (973)466-2669 or email us at info@nannyauthyority.com to inquire about hiring a nanny this summer!

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Depending on the number of people you plan to “invite,” you will need to get all supplies ahead of time and make sure to ship them to your guests.

After you decide how many people you want to invite, it’s time to choose what image you want to recreate. For younger children, perhaps you want to go with a beloved cartoon character, and you may want to stencil an outline of the image on each canvas beforehand. Other options may be a favorite landscape or having everyone paint their family pet. We recommend including this in the box or emailing it to the party-goers ahead of time.

The following items will need to be purchased:

• Boxes: In order to ship everything ahead of time to your guests, you will need to purchase boxes. have different sizes available.
• Canvases: Your canvas choice will most likely depend on the image you want to recreate, as well as your budget (sizes vary!). allow you to purchase 12 at a time for $12.99.
• Brushes: allows you to purchase 6 sets of brushes for under $12, which is a good deal!
• Paints: This will possibly depend on what image you are trying to recreate but you could also purchase mini acrylic paint sets so your guests have all colors at hand.

We recommend you purchase the art supplies at your preferred provider, although we have provided hyperlinks to some easy deals we found.

Once everything is shipped, set up a time for your virtual party and you are good to go!

Please make sure to tag us @thenannyauthorityinc if you post photos from your party.

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Here at the Nanny Authority, we are bundling up and trying to make the most of this festive season! There are so many amazing things to do in New York City this winter, and we’ve rounded up some of our favorites for you here. Take a look, and let us know if you end up attending any of these great events!

All Month Long

Between December 1-22, stop by the ! You can visit the 5th floor for a puppet show (best for children 6 and under) by the amazing puppeteers at Puppetsburg! The market offers shops, delicious food and drinks, and live music. Great for children of all ages! Great for children 6 and under but the market offers food, drink, shops and live music!

A holiday tradition, get tickets for , featuring New York’s very own high-kicking Rockettes! Running now through January 5th. We’ve heard that this year, everyone in the audience gets a Santa hat!

Are you ever really too old to enjoy a little magic? Catch the amazing at the Neil Simon Theater through January 5th.

All aboard! is an amazing holiday model train show. Children can explore, climb on the viewing dome, and have a wonderful time! While you’re on the Upper West Side, pop next door to see the . It’s 13 feet tall and decorated with origami created by artists from around the globe, and you will also get a chance to create some of your own origami!

Another holiday tradition, head uptown to catch the . Watch a model train zoom through over 175 of NYC’s famous landmarks, all recreated with natural materials. We also heard that notable train Thomas the Tank Engine may be making an appearance. There will also be carols, crafts, and delicious treats for all. Bundle up and explore!

We’re very excited to see Cirque du Soleil’s holiday presentation, , at Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater. It’s a modern twist (plus a jump, and a spin!) on the Christmas classic, and it’s fun for children of all ages. Running December 12th – 29th.

We’re also looking forward to heading to the Bronx Zoo for their . In addition to bright animal lanterns, their awe-inspiring LED display, and animated sculptures through the zoo, they will also have roaming carolers, characters in costume, ice carving, snacks, souvenirs, and a seasonal train. Please check their website for exact schedules. Running through January 5th. Fun for all ages!Ěý

Of course, you can always make a reservation at Macy’s for your kiddos to meet Santa at their . Enjoy the magical winter wonderland on the 8th floor of Macy’s Herald Square. Old Saint Nick will be there for photo ops, but please be sure to check their website and make a reservation! While you’re there, check out their gorgeous holiday store windows!

Weekend of December 6 – 8

Saturday, December 7

. Watch this hilarious comedy troupe improv stories created by children in the audience. Fun for all ages.Ěý

Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8, from 12-6pm each day

. With over 40 vendors signed up, you are bound to find a perfect gift for everyone on your list! There will also be a make-your-own gift section, ornament engraving, and cookie decorating. Food for everyone, and wine for the grownups!

Weekend of December 13 – 15

Friday, December 13th

. Their website is boasting a night of “music, glow sticks, latkes, and light!” They are also holding a baked good drive for the Goddard Riverside Community Center, which serves Christmas dinner to over 1,000 people in need. This is a great opportunity to spend some time in the kitchen with your kiddos, as the Chanukah dinner is also serving as a baked good drive for the Goddard Riverside Community Center, which serves Christmas dinner to over 1000 people in need each year.

Friday, December 13 – Sunday, December 15

at the Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College. Times vary depending on the day. Good for ages 5 and up.Ěý

Saturday, December 14 – Sunday, December 15

at the Center for Architecture. Bring the whole family to make a gingerbread house masterpiece. Programs are designed for children 5-13. Programs are 11-1pm and 2-4pm both days.Ěý

Sunday, December 15, 11am

from the Kaufman Music Center at the Merkin Concert Hall. Enjoy this girl-power twist on a classic Hanukkah story.

Weekend of December 20th – 22ndĚý

Sunday, December 22, 12pm

in the East Village. Enjoy theater, dance, puppetry, storytelling, music, and a gingerbread-house-building extravaganza. Recommended for children ages 4 and up.

Weekend of December 27 – 29

Thursday, December 26 – Sunday, December 29

. Learn more about and celebrate Kwanzaa’s seven principles: unity, self-determination, cooperation, purpose, faith, creativity, and collective work and responsibility. There will be music, dance, storytelling, theater, and other activities! Good for all ages.Ěý

Honorable Weekday Mentions

Thursday, December 5, 6pm

at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. Skating performances, carols, and fireworks, plus all the bites that Bryant Park’s Winter Village has to offer – we recommend the Bomboloni and Hot Cocoa stall on the west side of the park, near the library, where we can often be found on our lunch breaks! The winter village will be open until March 1, if you’re unable to make it on Thursday!

Monday, December 16th, 6:00 – 8:30pm

. Possibly the biggest celebration of the latke that you’ll find and who isn’t a fan of latkes? Head over to the Brooklyn Museum to get your tastebuds dancing. All proceeds from this event benefit The Sylvia Center, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that teaches cooking in underserved communities.

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Here at Nanny Authority, we are so excited about autumn! Chilly breezes and knitted scarves are just around the corner, and we’re rounding up all of the best events in the city to attend with your kiddos. Let us know if you end up attending any of them!

Month-Long Events

Grab your mittens and your scarves! All public ice rinks open up on October 8th. Check out the Winter Village at Bryant Park or the classic Rink at Rockefeller Center. You’ll have to wait for it to get colder outside before you can go skating in Central Park, but you can build up your skills at some of the other rinks around the city!

The NBA season is kicking off in October, and we’re so excited to check out some games! Both the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Knicks put on a great show. Pack up some snacks, and prepare for your kids to be excited to join the basketball team at school.

Weekend of October 4-6

Through Sunday, October 6, head uptown to the New York Historical Society to see the exhibit, showcasing some of the work of Margaret Bourke-White, Hansel Mieth, Marie Hansen, Martha Holmes, Nina Leen, and Lisa Larsen – all photographers for LIFE magazine from the late 1930s through the early 1970s. A peek into the past!

Saturday, October 5th at 11:00 am

The Met has some of the most wonderful events for families and children in Manhattan. Join them for , a lovely program for families with children aged 3-6. Share ideas and enjoy stories, sketching, and other gallery activities centered around October’s theme, Hispanic Heritage.

Saturday, October 5th at 11:00 am

Are your kiddos a little bit older? For families with children aged 7-11, join the Met’s amazing team for their . Travel through time and around the world on a museum adventure to discover favorite works of art around the October theme, Hispanic Heritage.

Sunday, October 6th at 11:30 am

Join the team at the 84th Street Books of Wonder for their! It’s a super special storytime featuring the sweet children’s books My Name is Wakawakaloch, Can I Be Your Dog, and Mama’s Work Shoes.

Saturday, October 6th at 12:00 pm

Head to Urban Farm in Randall’s Island Park for the! There will be live music, pumpkin-decorating, kite-making, and fun & games for all ages.

Weekend of October 11-13

Saturday, October 12th – Monday, October 14th, at 10:00 am

Head over to the New York Botanical Gardens for ! Celebrate all things autumn and meet some very busy bees, taste some honey and honey-inspired recipes and help with their vegetable harvest. Who knew you could have a little slice of farming right here in NYC? There will be live music and culinary workshops too, as well as arts and crafts. Fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to check out The Spooky Pumpkin Garden which will be going on at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.

Weekend of October 18-20

Friday, October 18th at 6:00 pm

Hurry and get tickets now to see on Governer’s Island. See these incredible and intricately carved pumpkins, enjoy some music and a refreshment. Tickets free for children 2 and under.

Saturday, October 19th at 11:00 am

Boo at the Zoo! Join the team at the Bronx Zoo for their annual event! Events include a costume parade, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, a corn maze, a magic show, and special Halloween-themed crafts. For the adults, there will be some different “crafts” available at Bootoberfest in the Astor Court, starting at 12pm.

Friday, October 19th at 12:00 pm

Dogs. On. Parade. Need we say more? Well, okay, we will. Join tons of New York City’s best-dressed furry friends at the East River Amphitheater for the . It’s a celebration like no other, as pups compete for thousands of dollars in prizes. Either go to observe, or pop a funny t-shirt onto your pooch and join the parade!

Weekend of October 25-27

Saturday, October 26th at 2:00 pm

Dress up in your finest costumes and make your way to the The American Museum of Natural History for their , a very special event full of trick-or-treating, arts and crafts and live performances!

Saturday, October 26th at 5:30 pm

Feel like an escape from the city for a few hours or maybe the night? Head upstate towards one of America’s most famous spooky towns, Sleepy Hollow, and take in the Tarrytown Halloween Parade. Enjoy food, drink, costumes and the changing of the leaves. Let us know if you see any headless horsemen wandering around!

Sunday, October 27th at 3:00 pm

We love the New York Public Library (and all libraries, really)! Join the team at the Children’s Center at 42nd Street for a for children aged 3-8. Learn about some new books and songs, and then go explore the library with your little ones!

Thursday, October 31st (Halloween!)

All-Day

We probably don’t even need to mention it… but go trick-or-treating! It’s a grand tradition of knocking on doors and getting free candy (a thing that would horrify us any other day of the year). Or, just wander around your neighborhood, find a fun block party, and join in! There are some amazingly-decorated homes all around the city, and lots of shops open their doors to trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Check out what’s going on in your neighborhood!

10:15 am

Join the team at the 58th Street branch of the New York Public Library for a ! A party for kiddos aged birth to 5, where the kids can dance to Halloween-themed music (Monster Mash, anyone?) and show off their fancy costumes!

7:00 pm

One of the great traditions of Halloween in New York City is the , now in its 46th year. It begins on the corner of 6th and Spring and runs all the way up to 16th Street. It’s a fun opportunity to see all of the creativity New Yorkers throw into their costumes and floats! We recommend finding a spot near the end of the parade if you’re watching with kiddos – fewer people means everyone can see more easily without having to give a piggyback ride!

Contact the Nanny Authority today!

At the Nanny Authority, our nannies are familiar withĚýage-appropriate seasonal activities and eventsĚýso parents can feel at ease knowing their children are engaging in a cultural, educational lifestyle when they’re not around. To learn more about how we can assist you in the search for a professional nanny, contact usĚývia e-mailĚýor at 973-466-2669 today.

The post 16 Awesome October Activities in NYC for Families & Nannies appeared first on NannyAuthority.

Are you excited about the back-to-school season? If your days aren’t full enough, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most fun and engaging activities happening around New York City for your little ones this September.

Month-Long Events

Looking for an excuse to head to the American Museum of Natural History? Go check out their incredible exhibit, . Life-sized models, fossils, and casts will help bring the dinosaurs to life for you and your children. Happening all month long!

It’s STOMP’s 25th anniversary, and they’re running a . Matchboxes, brooms, and garbage cans help the performers bring the rhythm of New York to the stage. Delightful for kids and adults alike.Ěý

Every Sunday from 1-4pm, to create art, hear a story, and enjoy a family exhibition tour aimed at children. Ages 3+ will love creating art from recycled objects and string.Ěý

Friday, September 6 – Thursday, September 12th

Friday, September 6th from 10:00-11:00 AM

Join author Jin Xiaojing to hear her , I Miss My Grandpa, at the , located at 33 East Broadway. She’ll be performing a live, interactive drawing demonstration, and the first 20 attendees will receive a free signed copy of her book.Ěý

Saturday, September 7th from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Get your dancin’ shoes out, because the Greenwood Park Beer Garden is hosting their. Grab a drink (apple juice for your kiddo, frozen rose for you) and brunch after hitting the dance floor. The is located at 555 7th avenue in South Slope, Brooklyn.

Sunday, September 8 from 2:00-2:30 PM

Looking for an excuse to head to the ? Check out this fun read-aloud,. Read and sing, then have a self-guided gallery scavenger hunt in the museum. Great for families with kids aged 3-6, but all families are welcome to attend.Ěý

Friday, September 13th – Thursday, September 19th

Saturday, September 14th from 11:00-11:30 AM

Join the NYPL in their for , then go outside to explore the park with its lovely carousel and lawn. The center is located at 476 5th Avenue, New York.

Sunday, September 15th from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Join K-Fai Steele for , at the in Brooklyn. It’s a wonderful, thoughtful book for the back-to-school season, all about celebrating our differences and accepting ourselves.

Friday, September 20th – Thursday, September 26th

Saturday, September 21st from 1:00 – 3:00 PM

Join everyone at Books of Wonder, , to . The authors of I Want a Dog, You Can’t Ride the Subway inĚý your Pajamas, and Octopus Stew will be discussing and signing their books. It’s sure to be lots of fun!Ěý

Saturday, September 21st, All Day

There are few things more beautiful than the Cloisters museum in the autumn, so take advantage of the cooler weather by , open to visitors of all ages. With artist-led demonstrations on repeat every 30 minutes and enough paper for every doodle your kiddo has in mind, it’s sure to be a fun adventure. The is located at 99 Margaret Corbin Dr., in Fort Tryon Park.

Friday, September 27 – Monday, September 30th

Saturday, September 28th from 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Celebrate the new school year by with your children! The event takes place at the . Afterwards, you can go say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the lions that guard the front door) and then pop to Bryant Park to watch the jugglers practice.Ěý

Contact the Nanny Authority today!

At the Nanny Authority, our nannies are familiar withĚýage-appropriate seasonal activities and eventsĚýso parents can feel at ease knowing their children are engaging in a cultural, educational lifestyle when they’re not around. To learn more about how we can assist you in the search for a professional nanny, contact usĚývia e-mailĚýor at 973-466-2669 today.

The post Super September Activities for NYC Families & Nannies appeared first on NannyAuthority.