Whether your kid is heading back to the classroom or starting the year at home, it’s important to snag a memorable back-to-school picture of all ages and stages. From cool props and backdrops to DIY picture frames and chalkboards, scroll down to discover 15 first-day-of-school picture ideas and tricks that are as easy as A, B, C.
Take the wheel to get fabulous first-day photos with a quick pic before they get on the school bus. Whether they stand on the street with the open bus door or figure out a way to get to a bus before the school year starts, we're sure your little student will roll with it. Don't forget to add cute school supplies as props!
Chalk It Up
Amazon
With chalkboard paint and a little creativity, you can make a unique family photo prop. Simply order the chalkboard, like this one from you can get on Amazon, and throw in chalkboard markers to complete the project. It’ll be fun to look back over the years to see how your little one has changed.
Put the back-to-school crew in the right frame of mind with this easy DIY talking picture frame. We love Apple's and ABCs how-to, with just an old picture frame, paint and stick-on poster letters (you can find at the dollar store). Announce that first day and get a big smile!
Let sibling personalities shine through with matching outfits. Younger siblings who are still at home can feel part of the back-to-school festivities by wearing matching outfits like the big kids. If you like to sew, find a fabric that fits everyone and follow Melissa Esplin's matching tees idea.
Let your little one express their style in their back-to-school picture and if that means a mismatched outfit or a pair of sassy shades, all the better! We love this free-spirited shot by JoopaShoots Photography that captures this kiddo’s personality.
Go Green
Karly Wood
Short on time? Go green. Find a bush or shrub that makes a background frame around your little scholar for a perfectly-framed shot. Bonus points if you can find a spot that has flowers to add a pop of color. Remember to take several shots and have them stand big and strong with a smile on their face.
Have fun with props—got an old typewriter or a stack of textbooks lying around? They’ll be the perfect backdrop for your mini photoshoot. Add in a pair of faux glasses, and you’re in business.
Want to make a quick and easy backdrop? Click through to Lovely Indeed's colorful backdrop that adds a festive hue with streamers. You can change the color to their school colors or match their first day of school outfits to change it up.
Sky’s the Limit
Shelley Massey
Take some of that sidewalk chalk the kids have been using all summer and switch things up with a new point of view. It will remind your stellar student that the sky is the limit.
Does anyone else forget to keep up with that growth chart hanging behind the bedroom door? Use one as a backdrop, and you’ll know exactly how much they’ve grown by the end of the school year. For inspiration, check out how to double-down on the adorable over at Jonesing2Create.
While you watch in awe as the kids mature, you also change from parents of preschoolers to—somehow—soon-to-be grads. As one future mom reminds us, it’s important to document your own evolution along the way. Later, the kids will thank you.
After-School Special
iStock
Hooray! They made it through the first day! Be sure to commemorate that moment, too, along with all its relief and excitement. That feeling of hearing the school bell ring and knowing a fun afternoon awaits captures a special essence of childhood, doesn't it?
Press record and ask the questions you’d usually save for the sign—grade level, favorite things and the most timeless of inquiries: what they want to be when they grow up. With a live interview, you’ll capture even more—the voice, the gestures, the giddy charm—about this age and time. After all, by next year they’ll have gone and grown up all over again.
First-timer? Ease the transition with matching outfits (like Mamma Carly's pics!) to show you're on the same team. Pick a nice background and grab some scholarly props to make this an Insta-worthy back-to-school shot.
For those simply wanting to share moments with friends and family without making it a public display, there are safer options like the Tinybeans app (you can learn more and download it here!), which puts parents in total control of who can see and interact with photos and videos.
This dad’s brutally honest tweets about what life is really like after kids are sparking an important conversation—and more parents need to be having it
Do we have too rosy of a view of what life is like after kids? One dad’s viral tweet thread says so, and parents are applauding him for his brutal honesty about the realities of parenting in the modern age.
Jay Acunzo started his thread by setting the scene: “I just spent 3 days with dear friends, all of whom have kids ages 8mo to 4y. Something I need to get off my chest about being a parent of young kids and the culture we live in.”
I just spent 3 days with dear friends, all of whom have kids ages 8mo to 4y.
Something I need to get off my chest about being a parent of young kids and the culture we live in:
He continues on to write that what our culture demands parents share about their kids doesn’t match up with what they’re actually experiencing during parenthood.
“What the culture shares and even demands you share about having kids/being a parent is that it’s precious, it’s a gift, it’s a joy, etc. But this is not what actual parents talk about or how actual parents feel,” he wrote. “Instead…We talked about the fact that our physical + mental health had gotten problematic. Our careers had taken huge hits. Our friendships were drifting. Our relationships with our partners felt strained (one person summed it up as: they’re basically just the other parent I live with). We didn’t sit around writing Hallmark cards to the joys of parenting. We sat around going HO-LEE FORKING SHIRTBALLS this is impossibly hard and every dimension of our life got worse: health, finances, career, love, etc. EXCEPT a new dimension called Loving Our Kids (10/10 great).”
We didn’t sit around writing Hallmark cards to the joys of parenting. We sat around going HO-LEE FORKING SHIRTBALLS this is impossibly hard and every dimension of our life got worse: health, finances, career, love, etc. EXCEPT a new dimension called Loving Our Kids (10/10 great).
Acunzo even added that it felt wrong to be so honest. The voice in his head told him to “walk it back” and add caveats like “even though I adore them!”
“But the way the culture talks about parenting is not how actual parents talk about parenting to each other,” he wrote.
And then he made this extremely important point: “Parents ought to be given more permission to say multiple things are totally true at the same time, because we feel ashamed to feel bad about our experiences otherwise. Because yes, we all feel like dogsh*t during the early stages of parenting very tiny kids. Yes, we wish we had more time for ourselves and our work. And yes, kids are the reason why every dimension of our lives took a hit EXCEPT this one amazing new dimension. BUT ALSO…We wouldn’t trade it. We don’t regret it. I routinely drop everything to console or play with them. I would, w/o thinking, take a bullet for them. I’d arm wrestle The Rock — and I promise you, I’d win — for my kids.”
In the replies, many other parents joined the conversation.
“I think it also depends on culture – in the western world there’s a lot of emphasis on the “individual” sometimes at the expense of the collective. I grew up in Pakistan – our culture emphasizes alot on the collective. Multi – generational families living together, close communities , families , relatives etc – takes a village to raise children. Now raising kids as first generation immigrants in Canada – it’s incredibly hard without the family support network and I think part of the culture here is to almost force independence on parents and kids from an early age,” one commenter wrote.
And this very relatable comment: “I remember going to the playground as a new mom. All the moms were gushing about how perfect their babies were and how wonderful motherhood was. I went home and told my husband they were all lying. The parenthood culture doesn’t encourage honestly talking about the struggle.”
In other words, we need to make more space for parents to talk about all the realities of parenthood. Are there wonderful parts? Of course! But some parts of it just suck, and there’s no way around that. And it’s OK to make space to talk about that, too.
Will it be a mini golf, baseball, or go out for ice cream in your pjs type of date night?
Take advantage of later bedtimes or school breaks and go out as a family on the town (bonus: no sitters needed for these family-friendly adventures!). Of course, if you are looking for a kid-free adventure, you can check out our list of parent-only date night ideas around San Francsico as well. But for now, we’re hanging with the kids—from mirror mazes and mini golf, to a nighttime Ferris Wheel ride, we are sure these special outings with entertain the entire squad.
Get Your Game on at Immersive Gamebox
Kate Loweth
This is the spot for all your gaming-obsessed kids and parents. Head to Valley Fair and don your motion-tracking visor to immerse yourself in games with themes like Angry Birds, Shaun the Sheep, and more. There are games for ages 5 and up so you can bring the whole fam! We also got the inside scoop that they'll soon be adding games that are appropriate for even younger ages. Bonus: all the jumping around means everyone will get a bit of a workout while having fun. Valley Fair has loads of options for pre- or post-gaming meals if you want to keep the fun going.
Skystar Observation Wheel:Climb aboard an enclosed private gondola (seats up to 6 people!) and soak up views from the Pacific Ocean to downtown San Francisco as you travel 150 feet up and around for an entire 12 minutes. And the magic of the wheel's one million LED lights will entertain your little ones long after the ride is over. America's largest traveling observation wheel will live in San Francisco until Mar. 2025.
Hit the Lanes: Who doesn’t like a bit of friendly competition—especially when it includes neon lights and your favorite tunes? Whether you’re a family of master bowlers or only in it for the lane-side snacks, a family night out is sure to be all strikes!
Insider Tip: Some of the bowling alleys run family specials—make sure to check their website for more information.
Sea Bowl 4625 Coast Highway Pacifica, CA Online: seabowl.com
Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze: Get lost in Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze of psychedelic colors and glowing mirrors as you and your family navigate your way from start to finish. Full of twists, turns and dead ends, this 2,000 sq. foot maze will excite and challenge your little explorers. Admission is valid all day so why not attempt to escape it more than once? After getting lost between the black lights play tourist for an evening and explore Pier 39’s two levels of restaurants, attractions and views.
Museum to 3D Illusions: Let your imaginations run wild! This one-of-a-kind art museum gives both young and old a chance to experience optical illusions in a unique and fun way. While some exhibits are specific to San Francisco (like a magic carpet ride near the Golden Gate Bridge), other exhibits allow you to live out your dreams, or possibly—your greatest fears. From surfing and balloon rides to zombies and shark attacks, the Museum of 3D illusions’ 40+ exhibits will capture the minds and hearts of the entire family. Don’t forget your cameras! Photography is encouraged.
Catch a Game: Whether you and your family support the Giants or the A’s, a night at the ballpark will not disappoint. Be sure to check the schedule for fun giveaway days and post-game fireworks!
San Francisco Giants Oracle Park 24 Willie Mays Plaza San Francisco, CA Online: mlb.com/giants
Oakland Athletics 7000 Coliseum Way Oakland, CA Online: mlb.com/athletics
And if your family fancies soccer over America’s favorite pastime, check out the San Jose Earthquakes for 90 minutes of teamwork, athleticism and maybe a few goals!
Dine Alfresco: Whether you’re digging into a Cobb salad, a crab sandwich or simply a large order of French fries, all ages are sure to enjoy their meal a little better in the fresh air. With the influx of patio seating (and much-needed heat lamps in San Francisco), options in the Bay Area are abundant. Dining alfresco promises waterfront views around the bay, bright lights of the big city and sometimes—family entertainment (bocce ball, anyone?). Here are our favorite Bay Area eateries with outdoor seating
Play a Round of Mini Golf: A surprise at every turn, miniature golf brings family game night to a new level! Whether you're exploring the Gold Rush era at Stagecoach Greens or aiming for castles and windmills (or even a dragon’s mouth) at Golfland, mini-golf courses are open late and sparkle at night. The kiddos, regardless of age, are sure to love the lights, water features and wackiness of each course.
Stargazing at Mt. Tamalpais State Park: Marin’s open spaces and beautiful night sky offer stargazers a unique location away from the lights of San Francisco and Oakland. Currently, the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers group is offering free online lectures. Why not take in a family astronomy lecture before gazing at the stars from the comfort of your own family campsite at Mount Tamalpais State Park?
Stargazing at Redwood Regional Park:Redwood Regional Park in Oakland offers an optimal spot for family stargazing explorations. Park on Skyline Blvd., near the Bay Vista Picnic Area, and hike to one of the many meadows or groves for unobstructed views.
Stargazing at Mount Diablo State Park: For hands-on astronomy learning activities and the chance to see the solar system through a variety of telescopes, check out the events with Mount Diablo Astronomical Society. Or if you and your little stargazers prefer a private family viewing, drive to Mount Diablo State Park’s Upper Summit Parking Lot for the best views. And better yet, stay overnight at one of the family campgrounds! Don’t forget the s’mores!
Go for Ice Cream: Sometimes it’s the simplest things that make the most lasting memories. Surprise your kiddos after dinner with a surprise trip to your local ice cream parlor. Already in pajamas? No problem! The sillier the sleepwear, the better the nighttime adventure! Need help finding a local spot or want to try a new one? Read: Get the Scoop: The 37 Best Ice Cream Spots in the Bay
In the rankings, a lower cost of living might be offset by a lack of access to good child-care services
When it comes to deciding where to raise a family, there are plenty of factors to consider: career opportunities, cost of living, school systems, housing, and health and safety being just a few. If you’re looking to make a move across state lines in the near future, you may want to check out WalletHub’s findings.
The personal finance website compared all 50 states across 51 key indicators of family-friendliness, including housing affordability, childcare costs, violent crime, annual family income, neighborhood support, and unemployment rates. These indicators were grouped into five main categories: family fun, health and safety, education and childcare, affordability, and socio-economics.
WalletHub also coordinated with a panel of experts to discuss issues that include child development, how it's influenced by the state a family lives in, and what things to consider when putting down roots.
When asked what families should consider when choosing a place to raise kids, director of Barnard College Center for Toddler Development Tovah P. Klein, Ph.D. states, "Cost is essential: is this a community that the family can afford to buy or rent a home or apartment, and will they be able to move to a bigger place if or when their family grows? Can they afford the amenities they will want such as recreation, and the necessities, such as health care and child care, that this area offers?"
But access to educational opportunities has a huge impact as well. "Starting early in life, access to high-quality affordable early childhood education has significant implications for children’s learning and social development, family well-being, and ultimately community and state economic development," adds Melissa A. Barnett, Ph.D., director of the Frances McClelland Institute for Children, Youth and Families. And a state's level of commitment to policies that support those opportunities is something parents should be aware of.
So, what are the best states to raise a family?
According to the findings, the top 5 best states for families to live in are:
1. Massachusetts
2. Minnesota
3. New York
4. North Dakota
5. Vermont
And the worst?
On the flip side, WalletHub also determined the lowest-ranking states, which include:
A new study on unpaid financial leave shows just how devastating it is to be a new mom in the U.S.
Breeze, a disability and critical illness insurance company, conducted the recent study on unpaid family leave, surveying 1,001 women between the ages of 18 and 44. A reported 54% of those surveyed said they’d “consider a personal loan to cover unpaid maternity leave expenses,” while 49% would consider “drawing from their retirement funds.” Another 47% would take “a 5% pay cut if their employer offered paid maternity leave.”
Included in the study is the sobering fact that just 19% of U.S. workers have access to paid family leave through their employers at all. That means millions of women are faced with the choice of starting a family or continuing to earn money to live.
Regardless of how much you save in anticipation of being off work without pay, having to take weeks off to heal, care for a new baby, establish a routine, and feel emotionally or physically ready to be back in an office leaves most moms without any savings to speak of, if not in debt as a result. Add in any complications from birth, postpartum depression, lack of social or family support, and limited daycare options (most won’t accept an infant under six weeks of age), and the outlook becomes even more concerning for new parents.
Most of the women surveyed said taking unpaid leave would be a “permanent setback” to them financially, and 74% admit they wouldn’t have “any cash savings left after 8 weeks of unpaid maternity.” Over half (56%) would consider taking on an “uncomfortable amount of credit card debt” to cover expenses incurred from unpaid leave, only exacerbating financial instability for months and years to come.
It’s worth repeating that the U.S. is the only industrialized nation that does not require companies to issue paid family leave. As a result, one in four women go back to work just two weeks after giving birth, according to the advocacy group Paid Leave US (PL+US). Two weeks.
To underscore the importance of having this critical paid time off after having a child, 38% said they would work an extra ten hours a week to have that time covered and not deal with the overwhelming stress of such a financial burden. Given one study shows working moms actually “work” 98 hours a week, it’s anyone’s guess where this additional time can be found.
Chicago has a rich literary history and is home to so many award-winning authors covering every genre under the sun. Introduce your little bookworm to Chicago’s brightest and best authors with our list of kid-approved, classic and contemporary children’s books. From a sweet new educational book about teeth to learning about Amelia Earhart, picture books to chapter books to graphic novels for advanced readers, these are the Chicago-authored tomes to add to your bookshelf ASAP.
The Truth About Tooth, Mistie Psaledas
The Truth About the Toothis written by Mistie Psaledas, a single Hinsdale mom of three after she created her own small tooth fairy company, Wiggle: Tooth Fairy Registry, while furloughed during the pandemic. In this delightful, educational book, tooth fairies reveal their secrets and share what happens to children's lost teeth around the world. The Truth About the Tooth is a story about diversity, creativity, and imagination of different tooth fairy legends—one from which the entire family can take inspiration.
Where the Sidewalk Ends, Shel Silverstein
Poet and author Shel Silverstein grew up in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. Beloved for his children’s books, his collection of imaginative, humorous yet insightful poems, Where the Sidewalk Ends, belongs on every kid’s bookshelf.
Bronzeville Boys and Girls, Gwendolyn Brooks
Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Gwendolyn Brooks is a Chicago gem. Bronzeville Boys and Girls is a collection of thirty-four poems that celebrate the joy of childhood in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood and beyond.
It's Her Story: Amelia Earhart: A Graphic Novel, Kim Moldofsky
Chicagoland author Kim Moldofsky debuts her first graphic novel with It's Her Story: Amelia Earhart: A Graphic Novel. Discover Earhart’s incredible achievements before she disappeared on her attempted flight around the world.
The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros
The House on Mango Street is a Chicago children’s classic that has touched readers around the world. The story centers on Esperanza Cordero, a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago, who shares her hopes and fears in vignettes and poems. Fellow acclaimed Chicago author Gwendolyn Books said of Cisneros: “Sandra Cisneros is one of the most brilliant of today’s young writers. Her work is sensitive, alert, nuanced, and rich with music and pictures.”
A Thousand Feelings: An Anthology of Story Nuggets By Young Writers, K.B. Jensen
K.B. Jensen’s anthology of middle grade fiction stories is entirely written by tweens, many of whom are Chicago-born, as part of an online writing camp. A Thousand Feelings is a mix of adventure, horror, sci-fi, humor, and fantasy, with stories about a girl whose best friend is a stop sign, an intergalactic prison rescue, and a Martian bully who goes from breaking crayons to breaking bones.
Wolf in the Snow, Matthew Cordell
A little girl and a wolf cub find themselves lost in a snow-covered forest in Wolf in the Snow. How will they find their way home? Chicago author Matthew Cordell was awarded the 2018 Caldecott Medal for this heartwarming tale.
Dear Girl: A Celebration of Wonderful, Smart, Beautiful You!, Amy Krause Rosenthal
Amy Krause Rosenthal and her daughter Paris worked together to dream up the endearing Dear Girl, a love letter to the strong girl in your life: “Dear Girl, This book is for you. Wonderful, smart, beautiful you. If you ever need a reminder, just turn to any page in this book and know that you are special and you are loved.”
Thunder & Lightning: A Story for a Stormy Night, Tim Sheridan
When Oak Park-based writer Tim Sheridan’s daughter developed a fear of thunderstorms, he wrote Thunder & Lightning: A Story for a Stormy Night to teach her that thunder and lightning are our friends, not foes. This heartwarming tale of friendship is also available in a deluxe hardcover edition with downloadable songs by The Low Anthem.
Secondhand Dogs, Carolyn Crimi
What does it mean to be part of a family? In Secondhand Dogs, Author Carolyn Crim explores love and loyalty in this middle-grade novel.
The Wright Three, Blue Balliett
The Wright Threeshowcases Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie house via an exciting art mystery that two junior sleuths from the Lab School in Hyde Park set out to solve. Before becoming a full-time writer, Blue Balliet taught at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.
Maya and the Robot, Eve L. Ewing
Award-winning author Eve L. Ewing's adorably illustrated middle-grade novel Maya and the Robottells the story of fifth-grade scientist Maya who finds a friendly robot just when she needs help on her science fair project. Ewing also penned the acclaimed Ironheartand Champions series for Marvel Comics.
The Magic of Maxwell and His Tail, Maureen Stolar Kanefield
Chicago author and lifelong educator Maureen Kanefield wrote the charming The Magic of Maxwell and His Tail (her first!) to encourage kids to find acceptance and tolerance within themselves. Maxwell is a young, intelligent mouse dealing with a body image issue: his tail is growing much too long, and he’s suddenly the target of teasing from his classmates. Learn how Maxwell manages to love himself, ultra-long tail and all, in this sweet tale about a tail.
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade, Justin Roberts
You might have seen Chicago-based, American singer-songwriter Justin Roberts on stage here in the Windy City. Now he’s appearing on your local library shelves with The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade. Follow along with Sally, the smallest girl in the smallest grade in her big school, as she stands up against bullying on the playground.
I Hope They Understand, Juleya Woodson
Juleya Woodson graduated from Evanston Township High School in 2009 and works today as a family support specialist with the Childcare Network of Evanston. Her first-ever children’s book, I Hope They Understand, recognizes and celebrates racial and cultural differences and was a response to the lack of diversity in media. “All children deserve to see themselves in the books they read,” Woodson said in a recent interview. “Too often Black boys and girls do not see themselves reflected in the media’s portrayal of beauty.”
I Wish You More, Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld
Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld teamed up to write and illustrate the delightful I Wish You More that affirms wishes for curiosity and wonder, friendship and strength, laughter and peace.
Thirteen Doorways, Wolves Behind Them All, Laura Ruby
Thirteen Doorways, Wolves Behind Them All is the story of two Chicago girls trying to survive in America in the throes of World War II. Ruby was a National Book Award 2019 Finalist for this compelling young adult novel about finding hope in darkness.
Mayor Good Boy, Dave Scheidt
Mayor Good Boy is here to help Greenwood become a town filled with kindness, but he’s facing foes around every corner. Scheidt, born and raised in Chicago, highlights the benefits of positive civic engagement in his latest graphic novel, Mayor Good Boy, co-created by L.A.-based cartoonist and story artist Miranda Harmon. This charming tale reminds readers that everyone can make the world a better place, whether you’re a human or a dog.
Let's Meet Chicago: Real Kids in the Windy City, Alina Dizik
Veteran journalist Alina Dizik interviewed school-aged children around Chicago to learn about their likes, dislikes, and what they are really thinking. Dizik also celebrates the diversity of our city with tips on how to explore different neighborhoods in Let's Meet Chicago: Real Kids in the Windy City.
S is for Story: A Writer's Alphabet, Esther Hershenhorn
Esther Hershenhorn is a Chicago-based author and writing coach. In S is for Story: A Writer's Alphabet, Hershenhorn playfully explains the tools, techniques, and strategies to budding writers of all ages, from "A is for the Alphabet" to "T stands for Tall Tales," to "Z? It's for masked Zorro./His Z-signed tales brought fame.”
Sahara Special, Esme Raji Codell
Author Esme Raji Codell documented her first year as a CPS teacher in Educating Esme. In Sahara Special, she chronicles the 5th-grade adventures of Sahara Jones, who struggles with school until she encounters a one-of-a-kind teacher. If you have a reluctant bookworm in your life, check out Raji Codell’s How to Get Your Child to Love Reading, a book designed to help parents get their kids excited about reading.
Parenting secret: One of the best resources for parenting advice is other parents. Whether you’re a first-time parent, a mom of twins, a father looking to connect with other dads or in search of some neighborhood families to share info with, there’s an NYC parenting group for you. Read on to find your fit. For more ways to connect try these NYC Parenting Facebook groups. For ideas on what to do with your new addition, check out things to do before your baby turns one, and what all new NYC parents need to know.
iStock
A Mother is Born Sometimes the best resource for Parenting 101 can be found by turning to another mother with some serious child-rearing knowledge. A Mother is Born is a business owned by a mother, Meredith Fein Lichtenberg, who also happens to be a registered international board-certified lactation consultant, certified childbirth educator, non-fiction writer, among other talents. The business offers pregnancy and parenting services for New York City moms. The website provides insights, tips, events, and information on classes and groups for pregnant couples, new moms, working moms, and moms seeking lactation advice. Meredith Fein Lichtenberg teaches group and private childbirth classes, prenatal workshops, new mom classes, and offers private consults to smooth the transition for moms going back to work.
Bad Moms of Long Island One of the newer entries to our list, the Bad Moms of Long Island Facebook group was started by LI mom Jesse Curatolo back in September of 2018. It's a strictly no-judgement zone, and venting is encouraged! (If you get on a high horse, you'll be asked to leave.) Sorry dads—this one is just for moms. Talks of in-person meetups for the group are in the works for 2019.
Big City Moms Big City Moms was founded by city moms for city moms, and its biggest event is one no expectant mother or growing family should miss. Biggest Baby Shower Ever, held in NYC (and many other cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco) is a jam-packed event that promises and delivers and event filled with gear, info, demonstrations, and more. (Mocktails for all!) Expect to be pampered, receive goodies galore and gain some helpful information about the whole having-and-raising-a-baby thing. Plus, over 100 vendors attend hoping to seduce expecting parents with some of the newest and best baby and parenting products on the market.
Beyond this epic event, other Big City Moms upcoming events include UES New Moms Support Group weekly get together, Infant and Toddler Safety and CPR Class, Nanny Safety Class, and an Expectant Moms Dinner. The website includes a blog that offers tips for parents and those expecting, the hottest trends in the industry, as well as chances to win amazing baby products and more. The company was formed over 12 years ago and while they have accrued over 300,000 members throughout the years, they also acquired some hefty celebrity fans such as Jessica Alba, Christopher Gavigan, Susan Lucci and Kimberly and James Van Der Beek, to name a few.
BoCoCa Parents “BoCoCa” is not a widely used term but it means something for those families immediately south of Downtown Brooklyn. (It’s a blended word combining the names of three adjacent Brooklyn neighborhoods: Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, and Carroll Gardens. BoCoCa Parents is a restricted Yahoo Group that is a free network for local parents residing in one of these three neighborhoods and boasts almost 11,000 members. The mission of the group is “to establish community and communication amongst Bococa's families and to provide our children with opportunities in which to play, cultivate friendships and establish their roots”. This group is an active and evolving forum for sharing information and advice, making connections, finding and selling items, arranging playdates, and much more.
Bowery Babes Once upon a time, in 2005, a group of women took a prenatal yoga class on Bowery Street, and they just couldn’t quite get enough of each other so they formed a group. Bowery Babes has evolved ever since and has become a large collection of local moms in Lower Manhattan. The group is a NY non-profit that supports women from the time they are expecting through motherhood, and offers endless amounts of opportunities to thrive in a lively and loving community. From playgroups to classes, organized events and book clubs to night outs and daddy brunches, holiday parties and FREE beauty mornings, you can plug right into this group's energy and keep on ticking. If that hasn’t sold you, they also offer discounts and educational lectures on parenting.
The Bronx New Mommies Group Inc. This mommy group was formed by necessity in 2002 when a new mommy by the name of Roxanne Taylor felt a strong need to bond with other moms that shared similar interests and yet she didn’t know how to make such connections happen. Enter, The Bronx New Mommies Group, which grew from a group into a non-profit organization and then a registered charity. This social support group offers a range of support group meetings, activities and special events geared toward fostering a positive and nurturing community for parents and their families. Its website includes a resource directory that lists some key resources such as Walk Safer NYC, Parent Pledge Project, and more. But it doesn’t stop there. Their Sister Group, Dynamic Metro Moms, is geared towards moms with older children from 11 to 13 years old.
Dynamic Metro Moms Sister Group to The Bronx New Mommies Group, this Bronx-based mommy group offers an abundance of weekly social activities, classes and events for moms and their kids throughout the year, as well as special interest clubs including fitness bootcamp, yoga club and more. Upcoming events include an Annual Summer Outing and Mini Spa Party.
Families First Brooklyn Founded by two therapists and parents themselves, Families First is a not-for-profit member based early childhood center located in Cobble Hill. The organization offers parents and caregivers a safe and nurturing place to bring their young children. Among many things, it holds a Moms’ Meet Up every Friday at 11:30 a.m., where you can meet with other moms to talk about a variety topics, express ideas, and share and gather advice in a supportive environment. This meet up does not require membership or a fee to participate.
First Time Upper West Side Moms For just 10 dollars a year, this group will give you a huge Upper West Side slice out of the Big Apple, from midtown to Harlem. First Time Upper West Side Moms can be found on Meetup.com and offers moms and dads literally hundreds of free and/or heavily-discounted events each year. Parents can get discounts on a variety of classes such as music, baby sign, soccer, pilates and yoga, as well as trips to museums and zoos, diverse special events, and an assortment of get togethers at local libraries, Whole Foods, and local cafes and restaurants. Plus: stroller walks for those who want to burn off some extra calories.
HRP Mamas With over 2,000 members, the Hudson River Park Mothers Group serves as a vital and active community for mothers and expectant moms that reside in Lower Manhattan. There are many benefits to this group such as their online social network of verified Lower Manhattan neighborhood moms, weekly playgroups that meet in a comfortable and welcoming place and are facilitated by membership coordinators, educational events arranged through the group, and discounts at local retail stores. But what really stands out as a must for Lower Manhattan moms is this group's New Moms Group Series. Guided by childhood development educators, this weekly get-together for moms and their newborns or infants provides a child-friendly place to share experiences and get support on challenging topics ranging from sleep, development, and establishing routines to issues finding childcare.
Hoboken Family Alliance While there are many niche parent groups in Hoboken, one of the biggest and most active is the Hoboken Family Alliance. The HFA produces several big events throughout the year, including an all-schools open house and "Cabin Fever," a big summer camp open house event. It also sponsors several philanthropic initiatives, such as a school supply drive in the fall and holiday toy drive in December. Events include holiday party in December and a "spring fling" event that includes Hoboken's biggest egg hunt.
API Rainbow Parents API Rainbow Parents provides information and support to Asian-Pacific Islander (API) families with a family member who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). The group is open to parents, other relatives and family members, and friends, as well as to LGBT people themselves. API Rainbow Parents helps families in the same way as PFLAG NYC’s other regular support groups, but has a special focus on meeting the cultural and language needs of API families. Find them on Facebook here.
Black Family Circle This is a free online meeting that provides a safe space for individuals who identify as Black and who have lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) loved ones. The group provides family-to-family support with a focus on the intersection of acceptance and one’s experience as a member of the Black diaspora. The group meets online on the fourth Sunday of every month from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. starting Sunday, July 26. Register in advance to receive a link to the Zoom meeting; the link is not posted publicly, so you must register to attend each meeting. To register and to receive more information, click here.
Love Makes a Family PFLAG NYC has now launched a support group for Latino families in collaboration with Oasis Latino LGBTS Wellness Center. “El Amor Hace la Familia - Love Makes a Family” is a group of parents and LGBTQ people that has come together for mutual support. The group meets every second Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. at Oasis Wellness Center. The group uses primarily Spanish, but flexibly uses English and Spanglish too.
The TransFamilies Project (TFP) The TransFamilies Project (TFP) is a support group for parents, relatives and friends of transgender children. No matter when a child disclosed his/her gender identity issues, or what stage of transition he/she is in, the TransFamilies Project is a place to meet understanding friends, share important information, and get (and provide) support. Meetings are currently twice a month online, and will take place in Greenwich Village when in-person meetings resume. For questions about the group, please contact group leader Judy Sennesh through PFLAG NYC at transgender@pflagnyc.org. Please note: If you are going to bring someone with you to a TFP meeting who is younger than high-school age, notify Sennesh prior to the meeting.
Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan Located on the Upper West Side, Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan's mission is to create “opportunities for people to connect, grow, and learn within an ever-changing Jewish landscape." Among the many types of programs and classes offered by the JCC are those geared to family life including breastfeeding and tummy time for new parents, parenting resources that offer infant CPR classes, a dad's meetup brunch and a bump bash complete with mock-tails for expectant parents. You'll also find prenatal and postnatal fitness classes here, such as innovative and safe yoga and water classes, as well as caregiver programs.
JC Families A great resource for all things parenting in Jersey City, JC Families is a go-to for info on local events, family-friendly businesses and school options for all ages. You'll also find listings for childcare, kids' stuff for sale, and more.
Long Island City Parents Meetup Group Established in 2007, this active Meetup group is more than 1000 parents strong. Members use it to coordinate playdates, parties, readings, workshops, and events, as well as advocate for improved playgrounds, schools, and housing. To join, you must live in the 11101 or 11109 zip codes or neighboring areas of Astoria, Greenpoint, or Sunnyside.
Lower East Side / East Village Parents Lower East Side and East Village parents and parents-to-be are invited to register and visit this online forum that connects local parents and covers a broad range of topics such as sleep, feeding, pediatricians, caregivers and challenges in parenthood. Online: lesparents.com
Katherine Lieber
Manhattan Twins Club As one of the largest multiples communities in the United States, this 25-year-old nonprofit club was founded with the mission to provide support for parents of twins and those expecting multiples. The club offers events throughout the year (many of them free) which address perennial parenting topics, hosts friendly get-togethers such as family picnics and parent socials. A sampling of this years’ past events includes Twiniversity 101 to help parents.
MOMally Astoria Founded by lactation consultant, parent coach, and sleep consultant Andrea Scannell, MOMally Astoria has both an active Facebook group and Meetup calendar. (There's also a general parenting FB group.) Members can request access so they can plan meetups, playdates, etc., and Scannell aims to have mom-hosted, free area events posted daily. She's also hosted experts on New York State family leave policy and District 30 schools. Past events with local parents include holiday parties, crafting events and singalongs.
The Moms Groups Founded by parent and lifestyle coach Renee Sullivan in 2008, this NYC mommy group is one of the most expansive, hosting groups in the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Union Square, Chelsea, Flatiron, and Midtown in Manhattan, and Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, Williamsburg and Park Slope in Brooklyn. The Moms Groups hold weekly sessions mostly led by either Renee Sullivan or therapists on her team and caters to Expectant Moms, New Moms, Moms of Older Babies, and Second Time Moms.
Motherhood Later than Sooner If you’re 35 or older and you’re a mommy, then you may want to join this group. Motherhood Later than Sooner is a group formed by Robin Gorman Newman, who at the age of 42 became a mom and found it hard to connect to the younger moms. This midlife moms group offers online and face-to-face support for mothers who are 35+ and want to be a part of a community of moms that are raising kids later in life. Benefits of this group include mom group meetings, moms night out dinners, family events, as well as discounts on products and services.
The New Mom Support Group This community-funded group found on Meetup.com offers Queens Moms (and Dads!) with kids 0-3 years of age a place to vent about parenthood safely and without judgement. For nine dollars a month, members can participate in Meetup activities such as play dates, stroller walks, Mommy and me classes and activities for dads. While the title of the group sounds exclusive, stay at home dads, expectant moms, second time moms, and moms with older children are also welcome.
Newport Mommy Another Jersey City group, Newport Mommy is more than 4,300 families strong. Head here for nanny leads and info, local news and events, classifieds, parenting resources, birthday party ideas and more!
NYC Dads Group Finally, a parent group that is just for Dads! There are so many mommy groups that may mention the word “dad” but don’t cater to them. NYC Dads Group is a community started by dads with the simple desire to share similar benefits of being part of a parenthood community as those found in staple mommy groups. The mission of this group has expanded beyond NYC and across the nation, and has become City Dads Group. Meetups include outings, Dads’ Night Out, workshops and special events. Partnering with Boot Camp for New Dads, a nationally-acclaimed 20 year old program for training dads-to-be, this group offers a Boot Camp facilitated by a nationally-certified trainer for expectant fathers and new dads that want to learn baby-raising basics.
New York Single Parents Meetup Group Founded in 2006, this Meetup.com group offers single parents a community to connect with other single parents. With over 2,500 members, this group not only hosts activities for single parents and their kids to meet and make new friends, but also serves as a springboard for special events happening in the city geared toward single parent families. A recent meetup like this was the Microsoft Youthspark Free Weekend Summer Camp for Kids, which offered single parents a free, in-store summer camp for their children.
Parents of NY Teens The Italian proverb “Little children, headache; big children, heartache” may resonate particularly with parents raising kids in the city that doesn’t sleep. But this Yahoo group makes it a heck of a lot easier by offering a place for parents of teens and young adults located in the five boroughs to unite and confront the challenges of raising city kids head on. They actively post on their Facebook page and their blog site to keep parents informed and plugged in.
Park Slope Parents This parenting group originally began in 2002 on Yahoo groups as a way for local parents to connect and exchange ideas on a number of parent-related topics. The membership base grew and grew, which led to the development of a PSP website. The website covers a lot of territory in content and offers expectant parents, new parents and working parents that live in Park Slope, Brooklyn, New York and the surrounding neighborhoods an extensive amount of local resources, parenting information, tips and advice, and organizes local family events throughout the year. The group is also host to a diverse range of subgroups for parents looking to connect with other members of similar professions, interests and life situations.
SoHo Parenting Located in its namesake neighborhood, SoHo Parenting is a center offering myriad services to new and expecting parents, as well as parents of older children. While many of its services, such as advice on sleep or developmental issues are fee-based, its popular ParenTalk blog offers help on a wide range of parenting topics.
Sunnyside Moms Queens moms in Sunnyside and nearby Woodside gather at this Facebook group and in real life to exchange info about all things parenting in their neck of the woods. It's more than 2,000 members strong, so that a lotta knowledge!
UES Mommas With nearly 28,000 members, this private Facebook group for moms on the Upper East Side is a go-to forum for advice on everything from breastfeeding, local resources and shops to sleep issues, childcare, and preschool. (You can also score second-hand gear like strollers, furniture and more.) Yes, you'll find strong opinions here, and the community is not without drama, but aren't diversity and people with a point of view why we all love NYC?
UES Mommas With nearly 28,000 members, this private Facebook group for moms on the Upper East Side is a go-to forum for advice on everything from breastfeeding, local resources and shops to sleep issues, childcare, and preschool. (You can also score second-hand gear like strollers, furniture and more.) Yes, you'll find strong opinions here, and the community is not without drama, but aren't diversity and people with a point of view why we all love NYC?
Parents wear many hats and it can be difficult to make sure we’re raising our kids with all the necessary life skills. A new survey from the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) is shedding light on a very specific life lesson that is key to raising independent adults: financial literacy.
Using over 1,000 respondents, the survey asked the question “Which parent taught you the most about money and personal finance?” The overwhelming answer? “Neither.”
While respondents did say that their mother was more likely to teach financial literacy than their father (23.7 percent over 22.6 percent), it’s clear that the majority has grown up with little to no instruction on finances.
The study grouped respondents into age groups that included 18-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64, and 65+ years old. Interestingly, the two youngest groups, 18-24 and 25-34, reported “Neither” more than all other age groups making this issue a relevant topic for today’s parents.
“It’s essential for parents to make a conscious and consistent effort to discuss finances, model good financial decision-making, and provide opportunities for kids to practice earning, budgeting, saving, and spending, especially while they still have the safety net of living at home and receiving family support,” says Vince Shorb, NFEC CEO.
So how can you make sure your kiddos are prepared financially as they become adults? One of the main goals of the NFEC is to encourage and provide tools for parents to teach financial literacy skills to their children from an early age. You can head to their website for tons of info.
Being a new or expecting parent is always a bit of a strange time, filled with questions—and wow, that’s especially the case now. The great news is that NYC providers and businesses are offering tons of online parenting classes and resources: birthing classes, breastfeeding support groups or one-one-one sessions with lactation consultants, newborn care and CPR, prenatal yoga and more. Some are free, many affordable, some are even covered by insurance. Help for new parents is out there, online, with NYC pros who you can see in person, eventually! (And hey—congrats!)
Established in 2002, Birth Day Presence has helped more than 20,000 families on the road to parenthood.
You can pick from an extensive menu of online class options that include quick and affordable sessions (e.g., $15 for a one-hour class on focus and mental distraction during labor; inductions, or confident hospital birth during COVID-19), to more in-depth classes such as a childbirth education three-hour express class ($250), childbirth education (four weeks, $399), or private childbirth education consults ($150/hour).
You can also sign up for online sessions devoted to breastfeeding prep, newborn care and feeding, infant CPR and safety and prepping for Cesarean birth. Finally, Birth Day Presence offers affordable online support groups for new parents, as well as prenatal and parent & me yoga classes.
Founder of Birth Day Presence Jada Shapiro is also the person behind boober which connects families with virtual lactation consultants, virtual birth doulas, virtual postpartum doulas and virtual mental health therapists.
The Marlene Meyerson JCC’s programming for new and expecting parents (as well as all families) is always robust, and the education and support continues online now.
Led by maternity nurse and family nurse practitioner Tamara Jenkins, Stork & Cradle is a prenatal education group specializing in childbirth classes and lactation consultation. It hosts a free, virtual Infant Feeding Group weekly on Thursdays at 2p.m.
Stork & Cradle’s hybrid parenting classes include an online learning module and live virtual practice skills sessions. Offerings are Baby Care 1010, Prenatal Breastfeeding, Childbirth and Infant CPR. Note that Prenatal Breastfeeding classes can be billed directly to Aetna, Oxford Freedom, United, The Empire Plan, BC/BS, Oscar, and Cigna.
You can also choose to learn on your own (no live practice sessions), with Baby Care 101, Prenatal Breastfeeding and Lamaze Childbirth Class.
Additionally, you can book a private virtual lactation consultation with a Nurse Practitioner/IBCLC that can be billed directly to the following insurances: Aetna, Oxford Freedom, United, The Empire Plan, BC/BS, Oscar, and Cigna.
If you feel you need in-person support, Stork & Cradle provides private office and home lactation consultations. (In office services are done by a single provider, and there are 20-minute buffers between appointments to allow for cleaning. Home visits are done by a provider with COVID antibodies, who is dressed in full Personal Protective Equipment.)
Greenpoint’s The Wild (formerly Wild Was Mama) is known for serving area parents with all kinds of classes IRL, and you can find many online now—from singalongs to support groups.
Run by certified childbirth educator Lisa Graves Taylor, who also received the Ellen Chuse Childbirth Educator of the Year award for 2017/18, Birth Matters NYC offers several ways to take online childbirth, newborn care, breastfeeding and postpartum wellness classes.
Live, interactive group birth prep, newborn care, breastfeeding and postpartum wellness classes are offered via Zoom ($395), all of which are also offered as private sessions.
Birth Matters NYC also has an online, on-demand comprehensive childbirth course ($349) which covers thorough birth prep, newborn care, breastfeeding & postpartum wellness. In an effort to support families in the time of Covid-19, this is offered at 50 percent off for those who need it; enter the code BOOYAY50 at checkout to use.
Want even more discussion and insight? Check out the BirthMatters NYC podcast, which shares birth stories of clients, including three recent births that took during the pandemic.
Community and family support space The Great Room is offering weekly online breastfeeding support groups for $5. Led by Lori Silverstein, a certified lactation counselor (and mom of three breastfed-babies) the group is intended for breastfeeding moms, but is open to those weaning babes or women who need support adding formula into a feeding schedule. You must register at least an hour before the class to receive link.
Typically a gender reveal photoshoot happens before expectant parents welcome a new baby, but one mom decided to have a photoshoot 20 years after her baby was born for this incredibly touching reason.
Heather Lundberg Green has made internet waves with her inspiring and heartwarming transgender reveal photoshoot she recently shared to celebrate the “birth” of her transgender son. Green explained to Red Tricycle, “The shoot was to celebrate a milestone in my child’s life; just as I have celebrated many other milestones in his life this one seemed natural to honor as well.”
Green explains in her Facebook post that has gained thousands of likes and shares in just a few days, “When your child comes out as trans, the best thing to do is create a photoshoot to celebrate the fact that he silently and bravely stepped out of the race that he never wanted to be in, found his own lane and proceeded to win.”
Although she was determined to support her son when he told her he was transitioning, Green explained that she was initially unsure how. “How do I tell people, how do I say this is my son and I’m proud that he has the courage to live his truth, how do I set the tone in our corner of the universe for his journey to be as smooth as possible,” she said.
That’s when she came up with the idea of marking the milestone with pictures. “The photo shoot showed my son that not only am I not ashamed, I’m exceedingly proud of him,” Green explained.
“After we had time to begin the transition and to become more comfortable with this new journey, I wanted to share this important moment with my friends. I hoped that it would move them to share it with their friends so that people could see that it is perfectly acceptable to surround a transition with joy and love instead of the typical ostracizing and dysphoria that occurs. I wanted to prove to Adrian that there is support for him beyond what he saw.”
Kudos, congrats and love all around for this amazing show of family support.
