By Bill Parry
The popular Summer Kids program returns to the LIC Landing by Coffeed in Hunters Point South Park for a second year.
The six-week free series, which is organized with the Gantry Parent Association, begins July 10.
All activities will take place at the Landing’s event site along the East River waterfront. Space may be limited to a first-come, first-served policy.
“Last year’s series exceeded all expectation, and we recognized the need to grow this program,” Hunters Point Parks Conservancy President Rob Basch said. “I am very excited about all of the new additions this year.”
Last year’s initial launch included over 40 different events that entertained 2,500 children. Programming included Mr. Andy, a Long Island City-based musician dedicated to enriching young minds and fostering the love of music. Mr. Andy will perform twice a week.
Other weekly performers include Story Time with Friends of Court Square Library and Arts & Crafts with Leonie.
New activities in the park this summer include McManus Irish Dance Jiggy Tots, Puppetsburg Puppet Show, Brick4 Kids Lego, Tots Creative Movement and Banana Jam Family Yoga with Suzanna.
“There will be a wide range of children’s activities and events for many different age groups,” Gantry Parent Association Education and Resource Chair Dana Aussenberg said. “We hope to provide fun and engaging developmental experiences for the children of Long Island City and also hope that Summer Kids will provide a way for families to mingle, meet one another and grow roots in our community.”
Other events include live music, magic shows and the highly anticipated Live Animal Show Tuesday, July 11, at 3:30 p.m.
Summer Kids will close out the year with The Secret Theatre’s kids-friendly production. Other events may be added so parents are encouraged to visit hunte
“The number of young families in our community continues to surge and we want to give them a reason to stay in Long Island City and make this their home,” Basch said. “We look forward to seeing all the smiling faces in the park this year.”
The Summer Kids program is being funded by the Hunters Point Parks Conservancy and City Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside). For more information, contact Rob Basch at rbasc
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
