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FEATURES
8 | Family Fun Spring bucket list
22 | Birthday
The best birthday party spots
26 | Cover
From Broadway tour to viral fame: How Micah and Sarah Wallace built a family brand online
SPECIAL NEEDS
12 | Special Needs
How to calm an autistic child
16 | Special Needs
Calm and unique NYC airport sensory-friendly spots for kids & families
18 | Special Needs
Mattel unveils the first autistic doll
STORIES & COLUMNS
6 | Editor’s Letter
10 | In the News
New NYC budget expands 2K child care, boosts special needs services, and more
24 | Camp
How to start your summer search
FAMILY FUN
28 | Calendar
The best family-friendly events happening this month
DIRECTORIES
19 | Special Needs Guide
20 | Special Education Schools
ON THE COVER Micah and Sarah Wallace
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thth
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PUBLISHER: Clifford Luster
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Donna Duarte-Ladd
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Erin Brof
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Stacie Goldberg
EDITORIAL LEAD: Jeannine Cintron
DEPUTY EDITOR: Danielle Ramos
EVENTS EDITOR: Shara Levine
ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR: Soe Kabbabe
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Alexa Lutter
In Our Spring Era
There’s something special about raising a family in New York: access, energy, and the feeling that we live in a place with resources and possibilities. This issue is rooted in that idea.
This month, we also share our cover story (page 26) on the down-to-earth (and funny!) Micah and Sarah Wallace (@ micahandsarahhh), who turned a Broadway journey into a viral, family-centered brand.
We’re also taking a closer look at accessibility and inclusion with our Special Needs Education and Resources Guide. Check out our guide to sensory-friendly spaces in NYC airports (page 16), which highlights how travel is becoming more thoughtful
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PARTNERSHIP MANAGERS: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Suzanne Cirigliano, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli
MARKETING & STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Rosalia Bobé
MARKETING & EVENTS
COORDINATOR: Ashley Rivera
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MEDIA SALES ASSISTANT: Ruston Ropac
ART DIRECTOR: Leah Mitch
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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Jeannine Cintron, Mia Salas
CONTACT INFORMATION
ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554 Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com
CIRCULATION: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com
for children with different needs, Mattel’s first autistic doll (page 18), which signals an important shift toward representation in everyday play, and our super helpful Special Needs Education (page 20) and resource listings (page 19).
And it’s spring (someone PLEASE tell Mother Nature). Whether you’re planning a birthday party (page 22) or mapping out spring adventures (page 8), this issue is filled with resources to make life a little easier, and a lot more fun.
As always, we’re so glad you’re here.
New York Family
Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
ADDRESS: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 15 MetroTech Center, Seventh Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201
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New York Family is the recipient of 7 Parenting Media Awards for 2025, including Gold awards for both Design and Editorial for our monthly print publication.
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Bucket List Spring
Springtime in NYC is always special. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s parks, gardens, museums, and unique city streets. From places with cherry blossoms to some hidden gems, find a bucket list to explore New York in the Spring mentioning the best places for families to check out. Get ready to enjoy all that the season has to offer!
1. Check out the stunning cherry blossoms popping up all over the city this spring in New York, at some of the well-known spots in NYC. You can catch these beautiful blooms at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Riverside Park, Central Park, and, of course, the famous cherry blossom trees at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and New York Botanical Garden.
2. Curious about the story behind New York City’s most iconic park in the sky? Visitors can uncover the secrets of the High Line by joining a free tour led by High Line Docents, who give you an insider’s look at the park’s history, design, and beautiful views.
3. Hop on a ferry and head over to Brooklyn Bridge Park for the ultimate New York experience. Then, stop by Jane’s Carousel for a ride, enjoy a relaxing picnic with stunning views of the city, and capture the perfect selfie with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge as your backdrop.
4. Explore the newly renovated Museum of Ice Cream in SoHo, where you can enjoy unlimited ice cream and venture through three floors of interactive installments and very cool immersive experiences. Don’t miss the Hall of Freezers, where doors open to reveal secret rooms and unexpected surprises.
5. Take a trip to the city’s best “islands” dur-
ing the Spring season in New York! Explore Roosevelt Island, Governors Island, and Little Island for a day full of fun. Have a BBQ at Lighthouse Park on Roosevelt Island, check out The Yard for some creative, unstructured play on Governors Island, and enjoy the beautiful flowers in bloom at Little Island.
6. If you have an art lover in your family, you’ll want to visit MoMA PS1 in Long Island City, where you can spend the day exploring contemporary art exhibitions. In celebration of their 50th anniversary admission is free (and will be for the next three years!).
7. Head to the American Museum of Natural History to check out their new exhibit, Impact, the End of the Age of Dinosaurs, where you’ll see life-size dinosaur models as you’re transported to a time before, during, and after an asteroid hit the earth.
8. Check out CityPickle, which returns to Wollman Rink in Central Park in April. With 14 pickleball courts for all skill levels, it’s a great family outing.
9. Visit The Met Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Hudson River. Walk through peaceful gardens with a collection of medieval art during Spring in NYC and watch Renaissance European artifacts, ideal for those interested in history and art.
10. While April showers bring May flowers, unwind at one of NYC’s cat cafes and hang out with some friendly felines while waiting for the rain to pass. The Meow Parlor in the Lower East Side and the Brooklyn Cat Cafe near Brooklyn Bridge Park are popular spots where you can also adopt!
11. Take a walk through the New York Botanical Garden’s expansive outdoor spaces and exhibits, including The Orchid Show: Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle (through April 26), which features NYC in bloom like never before. On Tuesdays, and Thursday through Sundays, NYC residents can access the outdoor gardens, collections, and seasonal kids’ activities with the Grounds Access Pass, which gives you access to the outdoor gardens, collections, and seasonal kids’ activities. On Wednesdays, it’s free for NYC residents all day.
12. For breathtaking views of NYC, head to Edge NYC at Hudson Yards, home to the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. After taking in the stunning panoramic views, take some time to explore the shops around Hudson Yards or grab a bite at one of the great restaurants nearby.
13. Climb the giant sturgeons at Pier 26 Science Playground, a 4,000-square-foot marinethemed play area in Hudson River Park. It’s a fun, educational spot where kids and adults can explore wildlife, slide, and learn about the Hudson River’s nature and habitat.
14. Summer at Coney Island is always a blast, but spring can actually be even better! You’ll beat the crowds and still enjoy all the fun. Check out the live sharks at the New York Aquarium, then ride on the iconic Cyclone roller coaster before heading home.
15. Stroll along Gansevoort Peninsula, Manhattan’s first public beachfront! Opened in 2023, it’s the biggest standalone recreational spot in Hudson River Park, with awesome waterfront views and a great place to hang out.
16. Grab something delicious from Smorgasburg, returning in April. This expansive open air food market offers seemingly endless authentic eats in two Brooklyn locations – Williamsburg and Prospect Park – every weekend throughout spring and into the fall.
17. Catch a ballgame this spring! The Mets kick off their season at home on March 26, while the Yankees’ home opener is April 3. For a more affordable option, check out the Brooklyn Cyclones or Staten Island FerryHawks, whose minor league games start in April.
18. Get up close to animals from all over the world at the Bronx Zoo! Explore everything from rare species to familiar creatures during the Spring season in New York, and then take your visit to the next level by adding the Nature Trek, a scenic route that features wooden bridges, tunnels, and elevated walkways, giving you stunning views of the zoo and the surrounding park.
19. Enjoy a trip to Far Rockaway Beach, where
you can relax on the boardwalk and take in the views. If you’re into skating, check out the 15,700-square-foot concrete skatepark, complete with stairs, rails, and ledges. Just don’t forget your skates and safety gear!
20. Discover the hidden waterfalls of Central Park, during Spring in NYC. There are five in total, tucked away in the beautiful Ravine, part of the park’s North Woods, a peaceful, natural area with tranquil streams, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls.
21. Visit The Seaport for a day of fun! Explore The Imagination Playground, check out the New York City Police Museum, or hop on a New York Water Taxi for a scenic ride. Pack a picnic and head over to Governor’s Island for even more adventures.
22. Check out the Cradle of Aviation Museum on Long Island, where you can explore planes from the early days of flight to World War I and beyond. Kids can have fun with flight simulators, climb into cockpits, and check out interactive exhibits.
23. Visit the SeaGlass Carousel at The Battery, a totally unique ride featuring 30 glowing fiberglass fish. Located at the park’s southern tip, the carousel is housed in a cool, nautilusshaped pavilion and gives off an underwater vibe with color-changing lights and special effects. It’s a must-see spot for springtime fun.
24. Road trip to Legoland New York in Goshen. Just over an hour from NYC, this huge, funfilled park contains seven awesome themed areas like Bricktopia, Ninjago World, and Lego Pirates. Kids can cool off at the Lego City Water Playground or explore interactive models in Miniland. The Dragon Roller Coaster is always a hit, and little ones will love the playgrounds.
25. Spend a day at Snug Harbor in Staten Island, home to multiple museums and botanical gardens. Check out the kid-friendly exhibits at the Staten Island Children’s Museum, then stroll the peaceful gardens to spot cherry trees. Be sure to take in the magnificent Chinese Scholars Garden, one of two authentic classical outdoor Chinese gardens built in the United States.
Free 2-K Launching in NYC This Fall
BY DANIELLE RAMOS
This past January, Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that starting this fall, 2,000 free 2-K seats.
The plan takes a big step toward universal child care by offering free care for 2-year-olds in New York City and strengthening the city’s existing 3-K program.
“There’s one thing that every family in New York can agree on, the cost of childcare is simply too high,” Governor Hochul said. “As New York’s first mom Governor, fighting for New York’s families has always been at the core of my agenda. Today, I’m proud to partner with Mayor Mamdani and leaders across our state to make this a reality, turning that foundation into a concrete roadmap that will transform the lives of working parents and kids across our state.”
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said, “Over the past 14 months, a movement was born to fight for a city where every New Yorker could afford a life of dignity and every family could afford to raise their kids. Today, Governor Hochul and I meet that movement as we celebrate our joint commitment to universal child care. This victory represents much more than a triumph of city and state government working in partnership — it is proof that when New Yorkers come together, we can transform the way the government serves working families.”
What Is 2-Care?
At its core, 2-Care aims to close one of the most expensive gaps in early childhood care: the year before children become eligible for 3-K. The program is set to launch this September in high-need neighborhoods, areas where the cost of child care and lack of available spots hit families hardest. To start these neighborhoods are:
Manhattan : District 6: Washington Heights, Hamilton Heights, and Inwood
The Bronx : District 10: Fordham, Belmont, Norwood, Morris Heights, Van Cortlandt Village, and Kingsbridge
Brooklyn : Districts 18 and 23: Canarsie, Remsen Village, Brownsville, and Ocean Hill
Queens : District 27: Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, Richmond Hill, Howard Beach, Woodhaven, and Rockaways
From there, it will roll out in phases, starting with communities identified by City Hall and gradually expanding citywide. By year four, the goal is to make the program available to all interested families across New York City.
Hochul knows what it’s like to be a working mom and have to choose between caring for a child and a job that you need. “ I understand the stress families, especially young parents, are going through. I lived through that. I lived at a time when I couldn’t find childcare,” the Governor told New York Family in an exclusive. “My babies were born, and I had to leave my job. My husband was
working for the government, so our income went down by half, and we struggled. I went to the store trying to buy discount diapers and formula, my hand clutching coupons, hoping that we could get through another week.”
The rollout is backed by a $1.2 billion state commitment to early childhood care and education in NYC. That includes $73 million to fund the first 2,000 2-K seats and additional support to strengthen the city’s existing 3-K programs. State leaders expect investment in 2-K alone to grow to $425 million next year.
“As New York’s first mom Governor, achieving affordable, universal child care has been a key priority for my administration, and we are doing the work to see it through,” said Governor Hochul. “That’s why we didn’t hesitate to partner with New York City to lay the groundwork and fund not one, but two years to realize the full implementation of free child care for all two-year-olds across the city.”
The long-term goal is universal child care across the city, and eventually across New York State, which officials say could save families billions of dollars each year.
Across New York State, $4.5 billion will go toward child care and pre-K by 2027, helping nearly 100,000 more kids get access to early education.
How to Calm an Autistic Child
A
parent’s guide to managing meltdowns and burnout
BY SHARON KAYE O’CONNOR, LCSW
When your autistic child is having a meltdown, you might feel helpless or confused about how to respond. We want to help and support our kids, but it’s not always clear what to do when they’re overwhelmed and struggling.
As an autistic psychotherapist specializing in autism and a parent of a neurodivergent child, the question I hear most from fellow parents is how to calm an autistic child during a meltdown. Understanding what’s happening for your child in these difficult moments is the first step toward helping them through it.
What Triggers Meltdowns in Autistic Children?
Autistic meltdowns occur when our nervous systems reach complete overload. This is generally due to sensory overload and discomfort, emotional overwhelm, fatigue, and other stressors. Meltdowns can be caused by a combination and accumulation of these elements over time.
At the core of our autistic experience is a difference in how our systems process the world around us. Because autistic sensory systems work differently, some kids frequently experience sensory overwhelm while others struggle to get enough sensory input. As autistic folks, it can cost our nervous systems tremendous energy just to process all the sensory information in the world around us, much of which we can experience as painful.
It can also be taxing and overwhelming to manage interactions with others, as it often requires us to communicate in ways that aren’t natural for us while we navigate the non-autistic world. We may mask our autistic traits to appear less different, which can be a major source of exhaustion and stress. As we continue to manage all the stressors, communication differences, and sensory aspects of our environment, sometimes the overload
becomes more than our systems can handle, and that’s when meltdowns are most likely. Some triggers for a meltdown might include:
• Too much interaction, or too many social demands
• Masking over a prolonged period of time
• Not enough downtime or feeling overscheduled
• Sensory overstimulation, understimulation, or discomfort
• Too many demands throughout the course of the day
• Experiencing pain, feeling sick or unwell
• Fatigue or too little sleep
• Stressors, including big or small changes
• Unpredictability within the environment, or inability to access familiar routines
Remember that triggers for a meltdown tend to be stressors that accumulate over time, so the last trigger that happens before a meltdown is usually just the final item in a long list of stressors that have been building. Keep in mind that our nervous system regulation requires a great deal of energy, and when we are fatigued or running low on energy (such as during times of autistic burnout),
meltdowns can become more frequent. In fact, for many autistic folks, more meltdowns can be a key sign of autistic burnout.
Understanding Meltdowns vs. Burnout
Meltdowns and autistic burnout are often confused with each other, and while they are different aspects of our experience, they frequently go hand in hand. A meltdown is a period of complete overwhelm that occurs when our nervous systems are stressed and overloaded beyond our ability to manage. Think of a meltdown like a thunderstorm: brief and intense.
For some, meltdowns look like outward explosions of emotions. During an autistic meltdown, kids may exhibit tearfulness, yelling, stimming, or other movement. For others, meltdowns resemble an internal implosion that can be invisible. Meltdowns are sometimes confused with panic attacks due to the intensity of stress the child is experiencing.
Similar to a meltdown, autistic shutdowns can also occur. When experiencing an autistic shutdown, kids might literally shut down and withdraw from the environment due to sen-
sory overwhelm, social overload, or difficult emotions. During an autistic shutdown, your child might seem to just “stop” and go inward to recover from overwhelm. During shutdowns, it can be helpful to remove demands and give your child space and time to recover from the overwhelm they are experiencing.
Autistic burnout occurs over a longer period—days, weeks, months, or even years— and is a time when an autistic person has run out of energy from managing in a world that was not created with autistic needs in mind. Autistic burnout in children is often referred to as regression, as this is when your child might lose skills they previously had access to.
For example, a child who usually communicates through speaking might start to struggle with speech and communication. A child who previously dressed themselves independently might now require much more support for activities of daily living (ADLs). You might also see more dysregulation or difficult emotions. Autistic burnout is also when sensory differences and discomforts become more pronounced, so your child might suddenly become more sensitive to sound or feel like everyone else is “too close.” During autistic burnout, your child might need more time for rest, unscheduled time, or time to just be in their internal world.
Autistic Meltdowns vs. Tantrums
Autistic meltdowns in kids are frequently confused with tantrums. They can look similar, so understanding the difference is important. A meltdown occurs when a person’s nervous system is overwhelmed and beyond its limit, and there is usually a large component of sensory discomfort.
During a meltdown, the person is not in control; their rational brain is offline, and the meltdown is not an attempt to manipulate or “get” anything. A person having a meltdown is in an incredibly vulnerable state. Tantrums tend to happen when a child experiences heightened frustration, stress, or not getting something they need or want, but they might not have the communication tools to express their feelings or needs in a more helpful way. Whether a child is struggling with a meltdown or a tantrum, it is so important that they are always met with care, empathy, and love.
What are the 6 Stages of AutismRelated Meltdown?
You might have heard that there are six stages of an autistic meltdown. I tend to think of meltdowns as taking the shape of an arc. At
Calming an autistic child during a meltdown becomes much more possible if we, ourselves, are able to remain calm.
the beginning, there is an accumulation of stressors and triggers, which may occur over a long period. As overwhelm increases and your child’s stress level rises, they may start to reach their limit of stressors they can manage, and the rumble stage begins.
During the rumble stage, you might notice indicators that your child is becoming more overwhelmed or dysregulated and is headed for a meltdown. In my consulting experience with teachers and parents, I have found it can be easy to miss subtle signs of the rumble stage because autistic communication looks different, and so our nonverbal cues that we are becoming overwhelmed can be difficult at times for others to identify.
Some signs to look for might be increased stimming, heightened emotionality, talking or engaging less, increased sensitivity to sensory aspects of the environment, and a growing sense of distress. As we notice the rumble stage, it’s a great time to reduce stressors, remove demands where possible, and increase sensory comfort. If we’re able to intervene and reduce stress and overwhelm during the rumble stage, meltdowns can often be prevented. If stressors and overwhelm continue to accumulate during the rumble stage, a meltdown becomes much more likely.
The meltdown itself is the crisis point. Picture this as the top of the arc, where distress is at its peak. After stressors build to a point where they become unbearable, the meltdown is like the inevitable thunderstorm that follows heat and humidity in the air. As the meltdown occurs and the thunderstorm passes through, much of that stress and overwhelm is released from our systems. You may notice that your child slowly de-escalates from the meltdown and then, afterward, is in a state of relative calm or exhaustion. They might even fall asleep. During this recovery period, your child might need to rest, have space to be alone, or want connection and reassurance.
What to Avoid During Meltdowns
There are many ways we can support our kids during meltdowns, but first, let’s talk about what to avoid during meltdowns, or when
your autistic child is overwhelmed. Because meltdowns are caused by extreme overload and stress, we want to avoid adding any more overwhelm to what our kids might be currently experiencing. During a meltdown, we can avoid:
• Pushing them to talk or explain how they are feeling
• Punishment or talk of punishment
• Trying to negotiate
• Trying to “correct” behavior
• Making other demands
• Yelling, shaming or admonishing
• Taking away a favorite object or comfort item
• Withholding support or connection in exchange for changed behavior
How to Calm an Autistic Child
During
a Meltdown
The most important thing we can do when our child is having a meltdown is to recognize that they are in a state of extreme distress. Calming an autistic child during a meltdown becomes much more possible if we, ourselves, are able to remain calm.
Stay calm : When our kids are dysregulated, we can co-regulate with them if we are able to stay more regulated ourselves. By maintaining our own calm, we can help them to de-escalate their overwhelm. So the first thing that can be helpful is just taking a moment to take a deep breath and center yourself.
Stay safe : When a child is having a meltdown, it’s most important to keep them and everyone else safe. This could include having others move out of the room or space, and making sure there aren’t any hazardous items that might be within the child’s reach. Having fewer people in the space can also help reduce any overwhelm that your child may be experiencing.
Offer words of support : Giving your child space during the meltdown, but also letting them know you’re nearby to support them, can be helpful. For some kids, it can be reassuring to hear a few gentle words of support and empathy, such as “I’ll be right over here if you need me” or a gentle reflection like “I see you’re having a really hard time.” Others might prefer not talking at all during these times, as they might find this more overwhelming and more sensory information to process.
Make the environment as sensoryfriendly as possible : If you know your child is sensitive to bright lights or loud sounds, see if it is possible to dim the lights a bit or reduce
any noises that might be present in the space.
Hands off : During times of meltdown and overwhelm, it can be helpful to avoid touching your child unless they have specifically let you know that they would like hugs or deep pressure.
You may notice your child may start to de-escalate gradually, and may return to a place of feeling calmer. It is important to continue to reduce stressors and demands for a while during this recovery period, even if it appears as if they’ve recovered from the meltdown, as they may still be extra sensitive and vulnerable to overwhelm for a period of time.
Preventing Autistic Meltdowns
When it comes to meltdowns, prevention tends to be the best cure. When we are more able to identify and accommodate our kids’ needs related to sensory differences, communication and interaction preferences, and the need for rest and downtime, we can actually help to prevent meltdowns, or at least help them to become fewer and farther between.
Here are a few tips that can help keep the meltdowns away!
Identify any sensory needs that may be present for your child. This can be done with the help of an occupational therapist (OT), or by observing how your child responds to the sensory elements of daily life. Is your child generally more sensory sensitive, sensory seeking, or a combination of the two? What sensory supports would be most helpful for your child?
Make sure your child has the rest and downtime that they need. For many kids, just getting through the school day can be overwhelming, and they may need lots of downtime after they come home. Does your child need extra time to rest and decompress?
Consider your child’s socialization needs. Do they prefer lots of interaction and social time, or do they need lots of time alone to decompress and enjoy their internal worlds?
Many of us thrive on routines or at least the predictability of knowing what our day or week is going to look like. Can you give your child a heads-up to any upcoming changes in the schedule or new things that might be happening on the calendar soon?
During times of big changes, such as back-to-school time or traveling over a holiday, try to minimize other demands or stressors wherever possible
Time outside or time in nature can be helpful in reducing our stress levels. Is there
a favorite location outside where your child likes to go?
We may find comfort in listening to our favorite songs, watching our favorite shows, or movies many times. If your child is experiencing more stress than usual, would they find comfort and familiarity in one of their favorite songs or movies?
Notice if your child might be showing any signs of stress, losing any skills, or having a generally more difficult time than usual, and see if there may be any demands or sources of stress you can reduce for now.
Giving our kids time and space to just be fully and freely themselves without needing to mask can go a long way in reducing stress levels, preserving energy, and preventing meltdowns.
When to Seek Additional Support
While it can be difficult to navigate parenting an autistic or neurodivergent child, you don’t have to do it alone. If you find that you’re using every tool in your toolbox but you and your child are still struggling, it may be time to seek additional support. Some excellent sources of support include:
Occupational Therapists : Occupational therapists, or OTs, can be an excellent resource to help us better understand our children’s sensory needs and the sensory tools and accommodations that can be most beneficial for them. They can also help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and any challenges with fine motor control.
Speech and Language Pathologists : Speech and Language Pathologists, or SLPs, specialize in supporting speech and communication. If your child is struggling with communication, an SLP can assess and provide support for any challenges that may be present and help your child find a mode of communication that feels most comfortable for them.
Neuroaffirming Health Care : It can be so helpful to have a neuroaffirming medical provider on your team. As meltdowns can sometimes be an indicator of pain or physical illness,
it is important to consult with your child’s doctor if you’re noticing any changes, new symptoms, or an increase in meltdowns or discomfort to assess possible health conditions.
Additionally, consulting with a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, or developmental pediatrician can help you to explore any medication options that might be helpful for your child.
Neuroaffi rming Therapy or Parent
Coaching
A growing number of neuroaffirming therapists and parent coaches can work with you individually to help you understand your child’s needs, strengths, and how to most effectively support them. Many neuroaffirming therapists and coaches are autistic or neurodivergent themselves, which can offer deeper insight into your child’s autistic experience and needs.
Support for Yourself
Taking care of yourself and accessing your own support can also be instrumental. Whether that’s formal support through therapy or counseling, parent support groups, or simply connecting with other parents of autistic and neurodivergent children who share similar experiences. Connecting with other parents can help us to share information and resources, and find community among those who truly understand our experiences.
Moving Forward
When supporting an autistic child through meltdowns, overwhelm or autistic burnout, it can be helpful to remember that these moments of struggle are temporary. We can think of these difficult moments as storms that can pass, and with the right insight and accommodations, meltdowns and burnouts can become less frequent. And as we grow in our understanding of our kids’ autistic worlds- including their strengths, challenges, and all of their wonderful qualities- we can also grow in our confidence that we can authentically support them in the moments when they need us most.
Sharon Kaye O’Connor, LCSW is an autistic psychotherapist, autism consultant, and parent of a neurodivergent child in New York City. She is the author of Healing Autistic Burnout (New Harbinger) and co-author of Academic and Student Affairs in Collaboration: Creating a Culture of Student Success (Routledge). Sharon trains special education teachers and families from an autistic perspective and works with autistic individuals in her private practice.
For four decades, Parkside has empowered children with languagebased learning differences to discover their strengths, find their voices, and grow with confidence.
At Parkside, every child is known and supported through an interdisciplinary program that integrates academics, therapy, and the arts—helping students thrive both in school and beyond.
Individual and small-group Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy & Counseling
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Sensory-Friendly Spots in NYC Airports
BY SOE KABBABE
Traveling through an airport with a sensory-sensitive child can be a challenge—bright lights, loud announcements, crowds everywhere. But if you know where to look, NYC airports now offer places and tools designed to make the journey calmer, kinder, and more manageable for kids with sensory needs and special needs families.
Whether you’re heading out of town or flying in for a visit, these are real, accessible spots and resources at LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark airports that help turn sensory overwhelm into a moment of peace.
Sensory-Friendly Spaces at LaGuardia Airport
Terminal C Sensory Room
1 Central Terminal Dr, East Elmhurst LaGuardia’s Terminal C features a dedicated sensory room just beyond security: a quiet place designed for travelers who need a break from noise and stimulation. The space has soft lighting, soothing music, bean bag chairs, and gently swaying egg-shaped seats where kids can settle in, decompress, or just enjoy a pause before boarding.
KultureCity Sensory Bags
100-15 Ditmars Blvd, East Elmhurst In Terminal B, LaGuardia has partnered with KultureCity to offer complimentary sensory bags for anyone who might benefit from them. These bags include noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, sunglasses, and visual cue cards, all helpful for kids who get overwhelmed by airport noise, bright lighting, or long waits. You can request these at guest service desks, and they’re free to use.
Sensory-Friendly Options at JFK Airport
While JFK doesn’t have a dedicated space yet for sensory-sensitive travelers, the airport participates in programs and has calming spaces that can make a big difference for kids.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
Terminal 4, 1 JFK Access Rd, Jamaica JFK participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which gives families a discreet way to signal that a child or traveler may need extra time, patience, or quiet support during the airport process. The
sunflower lanyard is free to request at Welcome Centers and information desks, helping airport staff identify travelers quietly needing support without calling attention to kids in a loud way.
Meditation & Quiet Rooms
In some terminals (like Terminal 1 and Terminal 4), JFK offers interfaith meditation spaces and quiet rooms that are not strictly sensory rooms but can serve a similar purpose: a calmer environment away from terminal noise, crowds, and announcements. These are great spots to take a breather, read a book, or just hang out with less commotion.
Full Sensory Room Experiences at Newark Airport
Sensory Rooms
Terminal A, 10 Toler Pl, Newark
Newark’s Terminal A offers two sensory rooms—one pre-security and one post-security—making it one of the most supportive experiences in any major U.S. airport for neurodivergent travelers and families with sensorysensitive kids, and the first of its kind across NYC airports. Both were developed with the Anderson Center for Autism to ensure they’re genuinely calming and helpful.
Pre-Security Sensory Room : This quiet space evokes a tranquil forest riverbank with soft lighting, bubble tubes, interactive wall elements, and seating that feels gentle and soothing.
Post-Security Underwater-Themed Room : After screening, families can also access a larger 1,400-sq-ft calm room with sea life projections, a fish tank, interactive bubble tubes, and even an aircraft cabin replica, making it perfect for kids who might be anxious about flying. These sensory rooms are free to use by passengers and provide a peaceful refuge from the hustle of the terminal, especially valuable if travel delays or long layovers are in your day.
Traveling with Sensory-Sensitive Kids: Airport Tips for Special Needs Families
If you’re flying with a child who could benefit from less stressful security screening, you can enroll in TSA Cares ahead of time (call or submit a request at least three days before your flight). This service can help connect you directly to the sensory room before screening and onwards through a dedicated lane, keeping the whole process calmer.
It’s also worth noting that across all three major NYC airports, you’ll find the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program, which lets families discreetly communicate that a child may need extra patience or quieter spaces. This is an easy tool that can make big moments feel more supportive. Just as we mentioned above with JFK, the lanyards are available for free at Welcome Centers and information booths in both LaGuardia and Newark, and nearby airports like MacArthur and Westchester County.
Mattel Unveils First Autistic Barbie Doll
BY SOE KABBABE
In a major milestone for inclusive toys, Mattel released in January with its first Barbie doll representing autism, created in partnership with the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN), a nonprofit organization run for and by people with autism.
This autistic Barbie isn’t just another toy. She was intentionally crafted to include features that many autistic children and families may recognize and relate to. When dolls and toys reflect a range of abilities, sensory needs, and ways of interacting with the world, they do more than entertain: they validate, empower, and open the door to empathy.
In a nutshell, it’s a Barbie that reflects real-life experiences and shows how some autistic people process the world. This includes:
• Articulated elbows and wrists, to allow natural gestures like stimming.
• A slightly averted eye gaze, which can mirror how some children avoid direct eye contact.
• Sensory-friendly, comfy clothing, like loose-fitting dresses and flat shoes.
• Accessories like a fidget spinner, noise-cancelling headphones, and a tablet, to support communication and sensory regulation.
These thoughtful touches help make playtime feel seen and understood, not just for fun—and they do reflect meaningful input from autistic advocates throughout the design process.
What It Means for Special Needs Families
For families of children with autism, representa tion isn’t just symbolic—it’s affirming. Being able to see one’s experiences, your own kid at that, reflected in toys helps build confidence and a sense of belonging. It’s a conveyed message for special needs families and caregivers: your child’s life journey matters, and their story deserves to be seen. Many par ents and advocates say this is a warm, encouraging step forward for inclusion in kids’ playthings, espe cially in a world where toys often shape how children see themselves and others.
After all, playtime is one of the first ways kids learn about their very own characteristics without feeling self-conscious about it. Whether your kid is non-verbal, sensorysensitive, or simply looking for a doll that feels a little closer to home, this autistic Barbie offers a meaningful, empowering option for them—one that celebrates diversity while normalizing differences.
Where to Find Mattel’s
First Autistic Barbie Doll
The new autistic Barbie, with an accessible price point, is already making her way to consumers: she’s available now at Mattel’s online shop and major retailers like Target. It is now sold at national brick-and-mortar and online stores, like Walmart and Amazon.
Mattel
Gillen Brewer School
410 East 92nd St., New York, NY 10128
admissions@gillenbrewer.com 212-831-3667
gillenbrewer.com
The Gillen Brewer School offers an academic-therapeutic approach to special education for K to 8th-grade students. The school’s mission is to educate and support students in becoming confident, independent, and engaged learners. The program features a hands-on, language-based curriculum integrating speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and social groups into each child’s schedule. Children from across NYC are immersed in developmentally appropriate and socially engaging learning.
Growing Pearls Pediatric Dentistry
26 Broad St W, Mt. Vernon, NY 10552
914-677-0427
growingpearlspd.com
hello@growingpearlspd.com
Dr. Melissa Saintil is a board-certified pediatric dentist at Growing Pearls Pediatric Dentistry in Mt. Vernon. Known for her gentle, compassionate approach, she focuses on creating positive dental experiences for children in a welcoming, child-friendly environment. Dr. Saintil provides personalized care for kids of all ages, including those with special healthcare needs, offering sensory accommodations and supportive techniques to ensure every child feels safe, comfortable, and confident during their dental visits.
The Parkside School
48 West 74th St., New York, NY 10023
alevinger@parksideschool.org
212-721-8888
parksideschool.org
Celebrating 40 years of helping children with language-based learning differences thrive, The Parkside School provides a warm, individualized environment where every child’s strengths are recognized and nurtured. Their integrated academic and therapeutic programs support students in developing confidence, skills, and a lifelong love of learning. Discover how Parkside opens doors to new possibilities for children in kindergarten through 5th grade.
SPECIAL EDUCATION Schools
If you have a child with special needs, we know the challenges you face. Like many of our readers, we have parents on our team here at New York Family who are raising children with a range of disability challenges.
In this guide, you’ll find schools that cover special needs education, enrichment, speech, and physical therapy, and more for New York families,. Each one offers resources designed with your child in mind, helping to support their development, build confidence, and meet them where they are.
Gillen Brewer School
410 East 92nd St., New York, NY 10128 212-831-3667, admissions@gillenbrewer.com gillenbrewer.com
The Gillen Brewer School (GBS) partners with families to expand possibilities for K–8th grade students with language-based learning disabilities. Since 1992, the GBS integrated academic-therapeutic approach has helped children grow into confident, independent learners — proud of their progress and prepared to engage with the world. Speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and social groups are seamlessly woven into each child’s school day, alongside a rigorous, hands-on curriculum. Located on the Upper East Side, GBS welcomes students from across NYC into a vibrant, inclusive community where every child belongs.
Eagle Hill School
45 Glenville Road, Greenwich, CT 203-622-9240, eaglehillschool.org admissions@eaglehill.org
Set on a historic campus in Greenwich, Connecticut, Eagle Hill School offers an environment where students with language-based learning differences and executive function needs are truly understood and empowered. For more than 50 years, Eagle Hill has served students in grades 1–8 through tailored learning that reflects how each child learns best. Academics are strengthened by integrated services and enriched through arts, athletics, and co-curricular opportunities, creating a connected, 360-degree educational experience. The five-day boarding program extends learning beyond the classroom, helping students build executive function skills, independence, and confidence in a warm, structured setting. At Eagle Hill, students are known, encouraged, and inspired to grow into confident, capable learners.
Green Chimneys
400 Doansburg Road, Brewster, NY 10509
845-279-2995, info@greenchimneys.org greenchimneys.org
Green Chimneys is an accredited special education program for students in grades K-12 who have been unsuccessful in a traditional school environment, and benefit from a highly structured and supportive setting. Therapeutic day and residential programs include an enriched curriculum for individualized academic, behavioral and emotional support, based in experiential learning. An innovative nature-based approach integrates animal-assisted activities, horticulture and outdoor exploration into treatment and education plans for enhanced learning and development. Green Chimneys strives to give students every opportunity to connect with nature, discover their own special talents, and develop skills and confidence to grow into independent young adults.
The Hagedorn Little Village School 750 Hicksville Road, Seaford, NY 11783 516-520-6001, information@littlevillage.org littlevillage.org
The mission of The Hagedorn Little Village School (HLVS) Jack Joel Center for Special Children is to provide the finest educational and therapeutic programs to infants, pre-school and elementary school children with a wide range of developmental delays and disabilities. Their philosophy is to facilitate each child in achieving his or her highest potential socially, educationally and emotionally, to provide support and direction to families, and to collaborate with outside service providers in fulfilling this mission.
The Vincent Smith School
322 Port Washington Blvd. Port Washington, NY 11050 516-365-4900, admissions@vincentsmithschool.org vincentsmithschool.org
Vincent Smith School has been the premier school on Long Island for those seeking small classes, specialized teaching for learning differences, and a supportive environment for grades 1-12. Vincent Smith is widely known for its personalized programs for students with learning disorders such as Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, and school anxiety. They offer on-site, certified professional services for speech, reading, counseling, and occupational therapy. They emphasize academic success, differentiated instruction, and a strong homeschool connection in small classes. Approximately 85% of graduates go on to college. Vincent Smith students have achieved successful careers in the arts, media, education, and entrepreneurship.
The IDEAL School of Manhattan
5 Hanover Square, New York, NY 10004 212-769-1699, admissions@theidealschool.org theidealschool.org
The IDEAL School of Manhattan is a new kind of private school, where students of all abilities learn together and reach their goals. Lower School (K-5) classes are co-taught by a general educator and a learning specialist. Middle School (6-8) classes cultivate lifelong learning skills. High School (9-12) is student-driven and flexible, focusing on life skills. The Next Steps Transition Program (18-21) is an alternative or ramp to college with student internships. Join an open house to learn more about IDEAL’s generous financial assistance and Lower Manhattan location with five-borough accessibility.
The Windward School
1275 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains - Lower School 40 West Red Oak Lane, White Plains - Middle School 914-949-6968
212 E. 93rd Street, NYC – Lower and Middle Schools 212-222-8628 thewindwardschool.org
The Windward School is an independent day school serving students in grades 1 through 9 with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. With campuses in Manhattan and Westchester, Windward provides a structured, evidence-based curriculum designed specifically for students’ learning needs, equipping them with the tools to succeed academically and beyond. For decades, Windward has operated on a foundational belief: a language-based learning disability need not hold anyone back from a life of accomplishment. When students are given the right instruction and environment, they thrive. Windward alumni go on to succeed in high school and college, and lead across industries—in education, business, policy, the arts, and more—carrying with them the skills, confidence, and selfknowledge that a Windward education instills.
BEST
Birthday Party Places THE BRONX’S
Finding the right resource to celebrate your child’s big day can turn an ordinary birthday into something truly unforgettable. Whether your child dreams of a hands-on art party, an epic play-space experience, or a fun outdoor adventure, there’s no shortage of creative venues to bring those birthday wishes to life.
We’ve gathered some of our favorite kids’ birthday party spots—each with its own unique charm, from themed entertainment to stress-free all-inclusive packages. No matter where you celebrate, these spots deliver fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
The Artful Attic
718-822-0216
Mrs.Ryan@TheArtfulAttic.com theartfulattic.com
You can make your child’s next birthday unforgettable with a personalized Arts & Crafts party at The Artful Attic. Every event is customized by you and your child. Mrs. Ryan and her team guide kids through a fun, hands-on art experience, and everyone creates their own masterpiece. Best of all, they do it all, from setup and decor to food and drinks and cleanup. The Artful Attic offers a warm, welcoming space where creativity thrives, and every child is treated like one of their own. Whether it’s your party, special gathering, private event, or one of their weekly Arts & Crafts classes, The Artful Attic celebrates with heart and imagination.
Blue Balloon Parties
Serving the New York Tri-State Area 718-766-8058
book@blueballoonparties.com blueballoonparties.com
Blue Balloon Parties specializes in creating unique, personalized entertainment experiences for every occasion. Whether
it’s a birthday celebration, family gathering, community event, or corporate function, the company’s mission is to deliver unforgettable moments with professionalism, creativity, and care. Serving the New York Tri-State Area—including New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Fairfield, Rockland, and Northern New Jersey—Blue Balloon Parties brings the fun directly to its clients. With passionate and engaging performers, the team ensures guests are always surprised, delighted, and thoroughly entertained. From small parties to large-scale events, Blue Balloon Parties guarantees reliable service, exceptional quality, and complete client satisfaction. Their dedication to excellence makes every celebration one to remember— because at Blue Balloon, they truly “Bring the Party to You.”
Confetti Party Place
3190 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10461 917 579-0867
confettipaints.com/kids-parties Kids’ parties should be fun, exciting, and full of laughter, and Confetti Party Place delivers! This Bronx-based party service specializes in fun, stress-free children’s birthday celebrations, backed by decades of experience. They offer themed painting parties at their cozy event space or at a location of the client’s choice, including homes or restaurants. The venue accommodates up to 45–50 guests and includes tables, chairs, speakers, and a small kitchen area. Weekend and Friday evening party slots are available, with all art supplies and instructors provided, while hosts supply food and cake. Additional entertainment options include face painting, balloon twisting, magic shows, characters, and fun food services like cotton candy and popcorn. Conveniently located near public transportation with ample parking, they also
host baby showers, business meetings, and other special events across the Bronx and surrounding areas. Please call for rates and availability: (917) 579-0867
Party Mags
631-600-3315
charles@partymags.com
Partymags.com
Party Mags services the Tri-State Area, delivering high-energy entertainment with the latest multimedia technology. Each Party Mags event features Mobile Arcade Gaming Systems equipped with two TVs, dual game consoles, vibrant LED lighting, and doublesided play for nonstop fun. Guests can enjoy top video game consoles, crisp displays, versatile tablets, and immersive virtual reality headsets. From thrilling VR adventures to
Fortnite battles and gaming tournaments, Party Mags transforms any occasion into an unforgettable experience. Whether for a birthday, school event, or corporate gathering, Party Mags brings excitement directly to your venue. With game trucks, bouncy houses, and jumbo games, they ensure endless fun for guests of all ages— making every celebration truly memorable.
Send In The Clowns
493 Westbury Ave., Carle Place 516-354-1515
gary@sendintheclowns.com
Sendintheclowns.com
Send In The Clowns offers full-service planning and rentals for every occasion, serving New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Specializing in events of all sizes, the team provides everything
in-house—from tents, tables, and staging to inflatables, DJs, and live entertainment— ensuring seamless execution and topquality service. Their “do-it-all” philosophy guarantees clean, safe equipment, on-time delivery, and competitive pricing. Whether it’s a child’s birthday, wedding, bar mitzvah, fundraiser, or corporate event, Send In The Clowns offers a complete one-stop solution for rentals and entertainment. With a vast inventory and creative options, the company brings every celebration to life with professionalism, reliability, and fun, allowing clients to relax and enjoy their event from start to finish.
Social Snapz Photobooth 347-223-1984
social.snapzz@gmail.com
socialsnapzphotobooth.com
The Social Snapz photo booth experience captures the excitement at every event, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for guests of all ages. The team’s goal is to craft unforgettable memories for friends, families, and colleagues while providing high-quality keepsakes that guests will cherish for years to come. They offer professional photo booth services for weddings, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, corporate events, and more, with customizable options to match any theme or style. Guests are encouraged to snap photos, share moments instantly, and celebrate together through this ultimate interactive experience that brings people closer and adds lasting joy to every special occasion. With attendants and seamless setup, they ensure a smooth experience, allowing hosts to relax and enjoy the celebration without worry.
How to Start Your Summer Camp Search
BY JESS MICHAELS
Thinking about summer camp for your kids but don’t know where to start?
Here are a few tips to help you find the best camp for your child.
Think of What You Want Out of the Experience
Take the time to really think about what you would like your child to gain from the camp experience. Are you looking for your child to gain independence, build confidence and make new friends or are you looking for that along with excelling at a specific sport? Are you considering day camp as a working family and need full day care? Is there a specific “must have” activity or feature you need the camp to have? Write down a list of things you want your child to get out of the experience and what the “must have” things are to help you narrow down the options.
Consider Who Your Child Is Being able to describe who your child is will help you find the right camp for them. Is your child introverted or outgoing? Does your child have any special considerations? Do they thrive in large groups, or would a smaller camp be a better fit? Does your child enjoy participating in sports or do they prefer theater and art? Being able to answer these questions about your child will help you look for a camp that checks the boxes of what your child needs to thrive at camp.
LOCAL CAMP PICK
Research Summer Camps
There are many different ways to go about searching for a camp:
Word of mouth – It’s good to talk to friends and neighbors about where their children go to camp and to learn about their child’s camp experience, however, you want to make sure to do their own research when it comes to choosing a camp. While one camp might be a perfect fit for one child, it might not be for another. Each family and child are different, as is each camp, so finding the one that is the best fit for your child may be different than someone else.
Talk to the Camp Director – Whether this is in person or by zoom/phone , one of the most important parts of your camp research is to talk to the camp director or a member of the leadership team at a camp you are interested in. When you choose a camp, you are forming a partnership with the director and you want to make sure you feel comfortable with them. Clicking with the camp director and feeling that you can be open and honest with them is imperative when choosing a day or overnight camp.
Search online – Checking out a camp’s website and social media channels is a great
Fancy Feet Performing Arts Day Camp
1717 Crosby Avenue, 718-824-1981
1295 Allerton Avenue, 718-405-5136 1306 Unionport Road, 347-691-3443
info@fancyfeet.com www.fancyfeet.com
At Fancy Feet Performing Arts Day Camp, preschoolers step into a joyful world of music, dance, and imagination. Each day begins with playful warm-ups that help little performers stretch, laugh, and build confidence. Friendly instructors guide campers through creative dance games, simple choreography,
place to start. See what type of activities are offered, if the session lengths match what you are looking for, and what the camp’s philosophy is.
Touring – One of the best ways to get a feel for a camp is to tour a camp you are interested in. Day camps offer tours all year long and overnight camps tour during the summer into the fall. Touring allows you to see the facilities and ask questions about the camp while in the camp environment. Touring during the summer allows you to see the camp in action, which can give you a good feel about what the camp is like.
If you are considering an overnight camp for this summer, set up a few tours at camps you are interested in. It’s helpful to have an initial conversation with the camp director before scheduling a tour to be sure the camp is potentially a good fit for your child before traveling to see a camp.
Summer Camp Fairs – At fairs for summer camps, families can walk from table to table to find out about all the different summer camp options. The fairs allow families to talk to multiple camp directors all in one day to compare various camps and gather information.
Summer Camp Open Houses – Many summer camps – day camps and overnight – offer open houses in the spring and fall so families can have a chance to visit the camp. During the open house, the camp will offer activities and provide families with a chance to walk around camp. These days are fun ways to visit the camp and give you the opportunity to talk to the camp director and leadership team in the camp environment.
While the process of searching for camps can often be overwhelming for parents, once you sit down and focus on who your child is and the type of camp experience you want, the choices begin to narrow, leaving you with a few camps to consider. Spending the time now to find the right camp will pay off when your child has the summer of their life at camp!
music activities, and storytelling through movement. Throughout the day, children also enjoy crafts, snack time, and making new friends in a welcoming, supportive environment. The camp encourages creativity, teamwork, and self-expression while helping young campers develop coordination and rhythm. By the end of the week, families are invited to a mini showcase where campers proudly perform what they learned. Fancy Feet Performing Arts Day Camp gives preschoolers a magical summer experience filled with smiles, laughter, creativity, and unforgettable memories.
From Broadway Tour to Viral Fame
How Micah and Sarah built a family brand online
BY DANIELLE RAMOS
If you’ve ever found yourself laughing at a spot-on marriage skit at midnight while folding laundry, chances are you’ve met Micah and Sarah Wallace online. With more than 4.5 million followers across platforms, including Instagram and TikTok, the Brooklyn-based couple has built a loyal audience by turning everyday family life into something musical, hysterical, and entirely relatable.
Before the viral videos and brand collaborations, the two were theater kids chasing big dreams in New York. They met on tour with Beauty and the Beast in 2015, and what started as a friendship quickly grew into a life partnership in every sense of the word.
Today, from their Brooklyn neighborhood stomping grounds, they’re raising their son, one-year-old Shelton, while creating the kind of content that feels like you’ve pulled up a chair at their kitchen table. Whether it’s Micah’s wildly exaggerated impersonations of Sarah, spontaneous singing duets in the kitchen, or honest glimpses into parenting in a small NYC apartment, their dynamic is equally playful and surprisingly grounded.
In this Q&A, Micah and Sarah open up about falling in love on tour, taking the leap into full-time content creation, building community in Brooklyn, and why humor has become their secret weapon in both marriage and parenthood.
You two met while touring Beauty and the Beast. How did your relationship begin, and what was life like on tour together?
Micah: It started out as friends… We had both spoken to every other person in the cast before we spoke to each other, lol! There was a cast dinner, and when Sarah walked in, there was only one open seat, and it was next to me. We started talking and clicked immediately; it felt like we had been friends forever!
Sarah: The tour was such a great experience! We got to travel the country, do tons of fun things, and create many memories together right from the beginning of our relationship, which was so special. We also
bonded quickly because we were together all the time and got to see and experience the other person’s values under a microscope. We learned each other’s strengths and weaknesses quickly, which I think ultimately benefited our long-term relationship.
What was it like moving from performing on stage to creating content full-time, and what inspired you to make the leap?
S: Prior to the pandemic, we had pivoted our paths to focus on figuring out how we could build a business together. So that was already the frame of mind we were in, and then when COVID happened, Micah was at home a lot and started creating and posting silly skit videos on TikTok. He decided to post a video I had filmed of him in the infinity pool on our honeymoon, where he looks like his head is detached from his body, and it ended up going viral.
M: She didn’t film it with the intention for it to be posted; she just thought it was funny! Even making just a few dollars from that video caused me to start thinking about how content creation could be a business and a career. Eventually, I started pulling her into the videos, so we decided to make our account a couple’s account and got very consistent with posting.
We were both working full-time 9-5 jobs and building our businesses (we were pursuing a few options at the time) every night and every weekend. We did almost nothing else besides go to our jobs and build our businesses for 3 straight years, 2021-2024. That’s when we got to the point where we could go full-time in business for ourselves and decided to make content creation our one and only focus.
The “Micah impersonates Sarah” series has become such a fan favorite. How did that start, and did you ever expect it to take off the way it has?
S: Oh my gosh, I’ve always thought that Micah does such a hilarious, exaggerated impersonation of me, so one day we decided to turn that comedy into a video, and luckily, people related to it, which is always our goal.
We honestly weren’t thinking about it taking off or becoming something we could turn into a series; we just hoped it would make people laugh, but being able to expand on the concept with a series of videos has been such a fun thing to do, so we are glad people enjoy them!
Raising a child in Brooklyn is an adventure in itself, and as a born-and-bred Brooklynite, I can safely say there is no other place in the world quite like Brooklyn. What do you love most about raising Shelton here?
M: So many things! All the places we can walk, the fun parks, the food (Shelton loves to eat as much as we do!), the access to just about anything culture-related, public libraries, you name it.
What’s the strangest or most surprising thing about raising a child in NYC that you’ve learned along the way?
S: I would say that, so far, it’s simpler than we thought it would be! It can sound daunting with the way life is for us in NYC… no car, carrying groceries home, small spaces, no backyards, etc, but the parenting community in our neighborhood is super supportive and always willing to share resources.
M: NYC is a big city, but finding the right people and community makes all the difference. Our circle of friends is a big part of what has kept us here.
Parenting can be messy and really stressful at times. How do you spot the funny side when things get tough, and what takeaways do you hope other parents get from your videos?
S: Micah is naturally excellent at finding the humor in everything, which is such a blessing because life can be so serious. There’s very little we can control, so our thought process is that even when things get chaotic or don’t go our way, we might as well figure out a way to enjoy it, and humor is usually the answer. Our hope is that other parents know that we are all in this together and feel encouraged by that.
M: Yeah, our goal has always been to bring joy to people, and I think that’s possible
through the tough stuff, too. The messages we get about being the bright spot in someone’s hard season or that they had a really hard day, but they came upon our content, and it made them laugh…those messages mean so much to us!
With all the filming, parenting, and running a business, how do you actually make time for each other?
S: We have to put it in the calendar! In nice weather, we really love family walks in the evening. Shelton loves looking around and taking in the world, which then gives us a chance to debrief together and connect as a couple.
M: We also do our best to schedule out date nights in advance each month so they don’t fall by the wayside.
What are you working on next? Any new projects or collaborations you’re excited about right now?
S: We recently designed a water bottle sling bag in collaboration with Andar, one of our favorite brands, which was really exciting because it’s something we conceptualized from beginning to end, and it sold out in
less than 24 hours when it launched! We are also working on a jewelry collaboration with another brand we love, which will be released later this year, as well as writing a children’s book that we are working on bringing to life.
M: We are also building our own brand from the ground up, which is something we are super excited about, as it will be a new experience. We know we are going to learn so much, and that is fun for us. My two friends and I have also written a pilot for a comedy TV series that we are pumped about and starting to pitch around!
As a theater couple, what are some Broadway shows you hope to take Shelton to when he gets a little older?
S: Wicked is a fave for sure. I hope some of the older big dance musicals come back around for us to share with him, like On The Town, man, that was a fun one. Or when they did Holiday Inn for a Christmas stint on Broadway. I love those kinds of feel-good, big-production-number musicals.
M: That’s really hard…I’d have to say The Lion King. I remember seeing it for the first time as a kid and being so amazed by all the puppets and effects they used on stage. I was
blown away by the stampede, and the music is just so, so epic. I know he’ll love it.
Lastly, what are some of your favorite local spots in Brooklyn you’d recommend?
S: Depends on the weather! Brooklyn Bridge Park, when it’s nice…great walking paths, playgrounds, swings, water views. Fini Patio Bar down there by the water has great pizza. Al Badawi is a Middle Eastern restaurant that we are constantly ordering from. It’s so dang good and fresh! Also, if you go eat in person, it’s BYOB, so you can bring your own bottle of wine or whatever you like and have a really affordable, amazing meal!
M: Lillo Cucina is an Italian hole-in-thewall spot that is the most authentic we have found. Incredible pasta…their menu changes based on what they get fresh from their suppliers. Their tiramisu is also unbelievable; we’ve never found a better one, and we try them everywhere to see if we can find one to beat it. We don’t think it’s possible! Black Forest Brooklyn is a really fun beer garden with fantastic food and great stroller space. Talea Beer is an awesome brewery, also with great stroller space. Books are Magic is a great local bookstore to browse around in.
Photo by Shelby Pine
calendar
BY SHARA LEVINE
BRONX
Annual Easter Egg Hunt
WHEN: Saturday, April 4, 10 am – 2 pm.
WHERE: Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, 895 Shore Road, Pelham Bay Park
AGES: 3 – 12
WHAT: Hunt for chocolatefilled eggs, make a springinspired craft, and have photos taken with the Easter Bunny.
WANT TO GO?: $15. (718) 885–1461, bartowpellmansionmuseum.org
Kids Week: Beach Mural Making
WHEN: Monday, April 6, 1 –2:30 pm
WHERE: Orchard Beach Nature Center, Bruckner Blvd. and Wilkinson Ave., Pelham Bay Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Help build a communal mural using natural materials, then see it returned to the Long Island Sound with the ebb and flow of the tides.
WANT TO GO?: Free. (718) 319–7258, nycgovparks.org
Hopalong Andrew
WHEN: Saturday, April 11, 2 – 3 pm
WHERE: Mott Haven Library, 321 East 140th St., Mott Haven
AGES: All
WHAT: Hopalong Andrew honors the incredible multicultural history of the American West and celebrates the multicultural America of today, through music and fun!
WANT TO GO?: Free. (718) 665–4878, nypl.org
Zoo Explorers: Bugs and Butterflies
WHEN: Saturday, April 18, 9:30 am – noon
WHERE: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Have an up-close encounter with a small animal ambassador, learn about enrichments for them, and explore the skills needed to take care of these beautiful insects!
WANT TO GO?: $60. bronxzoo. com
Calpulli Mexican Dance Company “Monarcas”
WHEN: Sunday, April 19, 3 pm
WHERE: Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, 450 Grand Concourse, Mott Haven
AGES: All
WHAT: This moving collection of short stories honors the resilience, sacrifices, and vital contributions of Mexican immigrants in the United States through the art of dance.
WANT TO GO?: $40 VIP; $30 general seating; $5 students and children. hostos.cuny.edu
Looney Louie’s Juggling Magic Show
WHEN: Wednesday, April 22, 5 – 6 pm
WHERE: Clason’s Point Library, 1215 Morrison Ave., Soundview AGES: 12 and younger
WHAT: This fun interactive magic show is full of laughs and audience participation! WANT TO GO?: Free. (718) 842–1235, nypl.org
Woodlawn Family Fun Day
WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 1 – 4 pm
WHERE: Van Cortlandt Park, Broadway and Mosholu Ave., Kingsbridge AGES: All
WHAT: Bring the whole family out for face painting, nature walks, crafts, games, and more!
WANT TO GO?: Free.
vancortlandt.org
Wings Over Wave Hill
WHEN: Sunday, April 26, 10 am – 5:30 pm
WHERE: Wave Hill, 675 W 252nd St., Riverdale
AGES: All
WHAT: Soar into a day of fun with amazing bird encounters, presentations, and hands-on activities.
WANT TO GO?: Included with admission: $4 – $10. (718) 549–3200, wavehill.org
Step Afrika
WHEN: Sunday, April 26, 4 pm
WHERE: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Kingsbridge
AGES: 5 and older
WHAT: Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles with
Step Afrika at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts
contemporary dance and other art forms to create a vibrant experience that integrates song, storytelling, and humor.
WANT TO GO?: $45 – $65
MANHATTAN
New York International Auto Show
WHEN: April 3 – 12, Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am – 10 pm, Sundays, 10 am – 7 pm, Mondays – Thursdays, 10 am – 8 pm
WHERE: Jacob Javits Convention Center, 429 11th Ave. Hell’s Kitchen
AGES: All
WHAT: Check out the latest in automotive innovation and let the kids have their own exciting vehicle experiences in the newly expanded Family Fun Zone!
WANT TO GO?: $22; $8 ages 3-12. autoshowny.com
New York City Tartan Day Parade
WHEN: Saturday, April 11, 2 – 4 pm
WHERE: 6th Ave & W 44th St., Midtown
AGES: All
WHAT: Celebrate ScottishAmerican heritage with over 3,000 bagpipers, Highland dancers, clan organizations, Scottish dog breeds, and more! WANT TO GO?: Free. nyctartanweek.org
Macy’s Flower Show
WHEN: April 23–May 10, Mondays – Thursdays, 10 am –9 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am – 10 pm, Sundays, 11 am – 9 pm
WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W 34th St., Herald Square
AGES: All
WHAT: Visit the iconic department store and see the main floor transformed into a playful spring garden featuring thousands of blooming plants, flowers, and trees.
WANT TO GO?: Free. (212) 695–4400, macys.com
Rising NYRR Spring
Jamboree Presented by TCS
WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 9 am – noon
WHERE: Icahn Stadium, 20 Randall’s Island, Randall’s
Nites for Adults & Kids too! Party Room available for Birthday & Baby Shower Celebrations! Call (917) 579-0867 to book your party today! /ConfettiPartyPlace /ConfettiPartyPlace 3190 Westchester Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461
Island
AGES: 2–18
WHAT: Kids will enjoy a fun day of age-appropriate activities that they can try, including sprints, relays on the track, shot put, long jump, obstacle courses, and more!
WANT TO GO?: Free. events. nyrr.org
BROOKLYN
Cyclones 2026 Opening Day
WHEN: Friday, April 3, 6:40 pm
WHERE: Maimonides Park, 1904 Surf Ave., Coney Island
AGES: All
WHAT: The Cyclones kick off their 25th Anniversary Season with post-game fireworks!
WANT TO GO?: Tickets start at $17. milb.com
Hanami Nights
WHEN: April 21–24, Daily, 5 –8:30 pm
WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., Prospect Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Take an evening stroll amongst lit cherry blossoms, try your hand at origami and other Japanese crafts, enjoy
live performances and specialty food and drinks.
WANT TO GO?: TBA. bbg.org
QUEENS
Newsies JR.
WHEN: April 9 – 12; see website for schedule
WHERE: Secret Theatre, 10-10 44th Ave., Long Island City
AGES: All
WHAT: Seize the day and take the family to see the stage adaption of this classic musical based on the 1992 film.
WANT TO GO?: $27; $22 ages 60 and older; $19.75 ages 3-17. (917) 960–6342, secrettheatre. com
Apple Blossom Children’s Carnival
WHEN: April 11– 26, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 5 pm
WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park
AGES: All
WHAT: Put the Spring in your step down on the farm at this annual carnival featuring rides for all ages, games, and your favorite carnival foods!
WANT TO GO?: $19-$39. queensfarm.org
Over Wave Hill
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