Last Days of Summer
And just like that, summer is over. When I returned to New York for the start of the school year, it made me realise how important respite is when you live in such a big city. We take the beach and trees for granted in Australia. I had a wake up call when my four year old was terrified of a fly. Don’t get me started on our trip to the Butterfly Conservatory at the American Natural History Museum—sheer terror! It was definitely time to get out of the city. Now we’re glad to be back and ready for the school year. Over the last few months, I found a few things that I thought were worth sharing:
Crybaby Matinees
I wish I’d known about this when we first moved here. There are parent and newborn baby screenings at cinemas here in New York, called ‘Crybaby Matinees’. I used to attend them regularly in Sydney with my firstborn. I loved them because everyone’s baby is crying so it doesn’t matter if yours is too! Wednesdays at 11am at the E86th Street City Cinema is one location I am aware of however I am sure there are screenings in cinemas across New York. Definitely worth looking out for if you have a small baby.
53rd St Library Movies…
Another thing I wanted to share was a great children’s space I came across during the holidays—the 53rd Street Library, which has been open for just over a year in Midtown and is across the road from MOMA. I came to know about it as I attended a free movie screening with my children. With a library card, the library provides you with a listening jack/headphones and you are welcome to bring food. It was a great and free way to see a movie with children.
…and Kids’ Room
My two year old got tired of listening after a while so I took him downstairs to the children’s room, which is an enclosed space, so you can sit down and watch your children explore the room. The children’s room also had Lego, toys and of course many books, as well as staff on hand. They also had change tables and it just felt very child friendly. In addition to the movie screenings, there are also numerous story times, coloring clubs, Spanish lessons and even a children’s improv hour. See their website for more details.
Coming Attractions for Aussie Mums and Dads in New York
Finally, as the kids are back at school, Amanda and I have more time to ourselves so we are back to organising events! The next one is a beauty and will be on October 22 at Burke and Wills for their $30 Sunday supper special. Please check out the event up on the Australian Mums and Dads in New York Facebook group. We have a few more events planned over the next few months so please watch this space.
Helen and Amanda
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 