Resources
Social Media and Youth Mental Health
This Advisory describes the current evidence on the impacts of social media on the mental health of children and adolescents. It states that we cannot conclude social media is sufficiently safe for children and adolescents and outlines immediate steps we can take to mitigate the risk of harm to children and adolescents.
How to Set up a NYSCA Account Video
Not signed up to NYCSA? Here is an easy video that can show you how you can track your child's education, apply and vote in the CEC Elections, submit your NYC Schools Survey and so much more!!
Fair Fares NYC allows financially eligible New York City residents to receive discounted transportation costs through the MTA
Using the Fair Fares NYC MetroCard, participants can receive a 50% discount on subway and eligible bus fare https://www.nyc.gov/site/fairfares/index.page
Our favorite newsletters for NYC families
Want to be the first to learn about free programs and opportunities across the city? Sign up for the following free newsletters:
New York Public Library (Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island)
Creative workshops for teens
Project Inspire offers online, evening workshops for middle and high school students that teach a range of skills including creative writing, data analytics, web development and coding (Java). Workshops are held twice a week for five weeks. Register online.
Summer tutoring for elementary and middle school students
Project Inspire offers summer tutoring for students in grades K to 8. Register online.
Rocketry, robotics, computer coding & other STEM activities for kids & teens
The York College NASA MUREP Aerospace Academy offers an in-person summer program (July 2023) that aims to get young people excited about STEM subjects in school—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. The application is not yet live but keep checking this link. Learn more about the NASA MUREP Aerospace Academy here.
Free NYC Museum and Zoo Days
Look up venues that offer free admission or "pay what you wish" options at NYC Arts and Mommy Poppins.
City pools and beaches
City outdoor pools open for the season on June 29, 2023. Beaches are open now.
Get a library card
Get your free library card at the New York (Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island), Brooklyn, or Queens public libraries.
Family kayaking
The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse offers free kayaking over the summer. Reservations for each session open exactly two weeks in advance. Limited walk-ups (same-day sign-ups) may be available.
Rowing, Sailing, and Birding on the Bronx River
Enjoy free rowing, sailing, and birding along the Bronx River most Saturdays through Rocking the Boat.
Sailing and Nature Camp
Rocking the Boat offers a free summer camp for rising 6th- through 8th- graders. There are two sessions: July 10-28 and July 31-August 18.
New York Junior League Tennis
Registration is continuous and open for free tennis lessons for ages 5-15. Lessons typically run 1.5 hours. Find a tennis court near you,
The best sprinkler parks in NYC. When the temperature hits 80 degrees you and your kids will be looking from some cool relief. Check out the list of best sprinkler parks across the city, compiled by Mommy Poppins.
Our Free Programs guide lets you explore a wide range of after-school, weekend, and summer opportunities for students of all ages.
Food Help NYC: Free food locations including food pantries & soup kitchens.
NYC Well: Free, confidential mental health support in more than 200 languages, 24/7/365. Call 888-NYC-WELL or text “WELL” to 65173.
Mental Health For All: A comprehensive hub with helplines and services that offer a range of free, direct support to meet the needs of all New Yorkers.
Buildings After Hours: Free in-person information session with DOB staff every Tuesday from 4 PM to 7 PM at your local borough office.
Notify NYC: Enroll for free in New York City’s dedicated emergency public communications program.
311: Non-emergency municipal services available online, by texting 311-692, or by calling 3-1-1 from within the City or 212-NEW-YORK outside the five boroughs. TTY service is also available by dialing 212-504-4115.