While winter on the North Fork can be beautiful and serene it can also be limiting for families with younger children. Personally, my family is at the point where we’ve hiked nearly every North Fork trail, strolled every North Fork beach, and played on every playground from Aquebogue to Orient. To say we’re excited about the spring season ahead is a huge understatement. Luckily for us northforkers, there are quite a few exciting things planned for the new season when it comes to children’s programs, activities, and events. Here are five spring things to do with kids.
North Fork Nature School at Peconic River Herb Farm
Play, create and explore in nature with North Fork Nature School. Held at the magical Peconic River Herb Farm children are invited to partake in storytime, nature-based arts and crafts, gardening, mud-kitchen-play, and more. Current programs include a Monday/Wednesday program for ages 4,5,6 that is offered from March 21 – June 8, a Tuesday/Thursday program for ages 3 and 4 that’s offered from March 22 – June 9, and a Saturday option for ages 4-7 that will be offered on April 9 and 23 and May 7 and 21. All programs are drop-off and run from 9 a.m. until noon. Visit North Fork Nature School on Instagram or email Nicole at northforknatureschool.com for pricing and enrollment.
Farm Hands & Tiny Farm Hands at Hallockville
Set outdoors on the Hallockville grounds, young learners will gain confidence as they explore and develop an appreciation for hard work and the nature around them. Farm Hands is offering three opportunities for children this spring. Spring Saturdays, for ages 5-10, will include animal care, museum tours, gardening, and spring-themed activities and crafts. The session runs for six dates from April 9 – May 14, except for April 16 from 9 a.m. until noon. A spring break session is also being offered for ages 5-10 for April 19-21 from 9 a.m. until noon. Options to register for the full session or a drop-in day. The latest to the Farm Hands program is Tiny Farm Hands for children under 2. Two sessions are available for these little learners Tuesdays or Fridays from 9:10 – 10:10 a.m. starting the week of April 5. Children will enjoy playtime including sensory plat, songs, movement, shapes, colors, animals, sounds, and strolls around the farm. For pricing and to register visit, farmhandsnorthfork.com.
Artfully Long Island at Downs Farm Preserve
On Sunday, March 27, Nicole from Artfully Long Island and Naturally Curious Children is back at Downs Farm Preserve with another great class. At this class children, and people of all ages, are encouraged to forage for the perfect stick to then transform into a magic wand using recycled materials. Keep an eye out on Artfully Long Island’s Instagram page for registration details as well as additional classes planned for the spring season.
Princess Tea Party at Long Island Aquarium
On Sunday, April 3 let your child dress up in their favorite fancy attire for a day of singing, dancing, and high-tea princess-style. There are three seatings available: 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. Reservations are required, and tickets cost $49.95 for adults, $44.95 for children ages 3-12, and $5 for children 2 and under. Visit longislandaquarium.com for tickets.
Harbes Family Farm Reopens
Opening weekend for Harbes Family Farm has been announced! Head to the Mattituck location, home of the Harbes Farmstead, Barnyard Adventure, and the wine barn, on Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8 to welcome in the new season. Moms get free barnyard adventure admission all weekend. Visit harbesfamilyfarm.com for information and to purchase your 2022 season passes.
