As summer comes to an end, many of us feel slightly sad at the thought that our beloved outdoor activities will no longer be an option. Here are a few ideas for you and your families to enjoy as the weather turns chillier and leaves change color from green to gold, to bright orange or red, and finally to brown.
For families with young children (birth to 5 years old), there are plenty of activities to do here on Long Island:
- Visit the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank to feed the animals in their petting zoo, take a hayride through the farm, or pick pumpkins. They usually have Pumpkin Fest on the first weekend in October.
- Go apple or pumpkin picking at local farms or orchards. Many of these sites offer other activities, such as face painting, pony rides, and corn mazes.
For families with school-aged kids (6-12 years old), try some of these activities:
- Try pumpkin carving and/or painting.
- Make s’mores in the backyard.
- Go for fall foliage/nature walks in many of our county parks.
- Take a bike ride through the parks.
- Check out the annual Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration in late September.
For families with teenagers (13-19 years old), try these activities:
- Go on spooky walks and haunted hay rides.
- Make and enjoy apple cider donuts, caramel apples, pumpkin cookies, and hot apple cider.
For families with young adults (20+), here are some suggestions for you:
- Go on family-friendly wine tours at local wineries.
- Hike through our county parks and preserves, or walk along one of our many beautiful beaches. This is a relaxing way to get some fresh air, exercise, and catch up on what your young adults are doing.
Families with children of all ages can enjoy a sunset hayride through the Suffolk County Farm on weekends throughout October. Check our website: ccesuffolk.org.
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.