Keeping busy over the break
Although we’re looking forward to the hiatus from packing lunches and daily homework reminders, the December school break can be daunting with complaints of boredom and cries of cabin fever. If you’re looking for ways to fill the days here are six of our top picks for keeping busy over the break. From nature camps to ninja workshops, there’s something here for all, teens included.
Paint the masters with VEME Studios
This holiday break workshop from Greenport’s VEME Studios begins on Tuesday, Dec. 26, and runs through Saturday, Dec. 30. Within, young artists, ages 5 - 15, will be guided through a creative journey of five iconic painters of the 20th century: Tuesday- Vincent van Gogh, Wednesday- Pablo Picasso, Thursday Frida Kahlo, Friday- Jackson Pollock, Saturday- Claude Monet. Each day, the workshop will dive into the life and works of a different artist to gain inspiration, students will then engage in hands-on painting activities. The workshops will run from 10 a.m. until noon. Book one or multiple dates. Each day costs $50 per student and includes all materials. Register here.
Hunt for treasure with Greenie Supply & Tackle
Bundle up and head to the Greenie Supply & Tackle Treasure Map vending machine at Port of Egypt Marine in Southold for a family-friendly experience like no other. Map 19 was just stocked — perfect timing to change your December break forever. IYKYK. Maps cost $5, but the journey is priceless. Bring your knowledge of the North Fork, a shovel, and a compass if needed.
Tumble and train at North Fork Cheer
The ideal way to tucker these kids out! This one-day workshop on Wednesday, Dec. 27 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. will include a day of tumble training, ninja obstacles, crafts, and more. The cost is $60 per athlete and is best for children ages 5 - 11. Register here.
Create camp memories at Riverhead Rec.
Perfect for families with parents working during the December break, this full-day camp is offered Tuesday, Dec. 26 through Friday, Dec. 29, from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Campers, grades Kindergarten through 6, will enjoy active games, outdoor play, themed days, board games, and more. The camp, hosted at the George Young Community Center in Jamesport, costs $240 per week for residents, $250 for non-residents, $60 per day for residents, and $70 for non-residents. Register by calling 631-727-3200 x205 or visit the Riverhead Parks and Recreation website.
Hit the ice at Peconic Ice Rinks
Just for teens! On Fridays from 8:15 to 10:15 p.m., teens (ages 13 - 18) are invited to Peconic Ice Rinks for a teens-only skate night. The cost to skate is $15 per person, plus a $6 skate rental fee. For more details and to register, visit peconicicerinks.com.
Explore nature with Turtleback Farm
Do you have a nature-loving kiddo at home? This winter break camp is for them! Register your 7 - 14-year-old in Turtleback Farm’s three-day-long winter camp, where campers will explore animals in winter, enjoy a campfire, and learn winter survival skills at Cross Property in Cutchogue. This session will also include dune restoration and wildlife tracking. Locations for each day will depend on weather conditions but will vary from Bailie Beach in Mattituck, Laurel Lake Preserve in Laurel, and Cross Property in Cutchogue. The cost is $200 for three days or $80 per day. More details and registration here.