The good news: in the next two weeks, you'll likely get a break from the early morning rush and after-school chaos, allowing your family to slow down and relax for a few days. The not-so-good news: what kids really want to slow down and relax, even when off from school? Spring break is a nice break from the daily grind, but kids will still want to stay active and busy. Fortunately, there are plenty of way to keep the kids entertained during spring break, and keep your sanity, too.
Spring Break Camps
One River School Whether your child is an advanced artiste looking to hone their skills, or a newbie with a clean palette, One River has spring break camps for kids in grades K through 12. The younger ones will make monster masks using recycled materials while older kids can create street art, while mastering graffiti techniques. (Camps available on select days during the week of April 11, 49 N Dean St., Englewood)
HealthBarn USA Food and nature made fun in one at HealthBarn's Spring Break camp, where kids get their hands dirty during an adventurous week of spring planting. Kids will go on hikes, cook, compost and enjoy meeting new friends, whether they come to camp for 1 day or for 5. (Camp available Monday April 11-Friday April 15, 9 am-3 pm, 1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood)
Northern Valley Sports Academy Let your child get out some energy while having a blast at NVSA's School Break Camp. They'll have free rein of the 20,000 square foot space, including sports activities and games, special events, arts & crafts and game room. Plus, lunch and snack are included for a full day of fun. (Camp available Monday April 11-Friday April 15 and Monday April 18-Friday April 22, 8:45 am-2:45 pm, 100 Oakland Ave., Closter)
Ridgewood YMCA School Vacation Camp Education and enjoyment come together at Ridgewood YMCA's vacation camp. Kids ages 3-5 years and in grades kindergarten through 8th will enjoy swimming in their indoor pool, arts & crafts, theme days, and other age-appropriate activities throughout the day. (Camp available Monday April 11-Friday April 15; 3-5 years 8 am-12 pm or 8 am-3 pm; K-8 8 am-6 pm, 112 Oak St., Ridgewood)
Activities and Mini Getaways
Bronx Zoo Dinosaur Safari Visit the zoo and head back in time for a prehistoric adventure at the opening of the zoo's Dinosaur Safari, opening April 11th. The lifesize, animatronic dinosaurs are bigger, better and fiercer than ever. Roam through the trail and get an up-close look at everything from the T-rex to the Quetzalcoatlus, then visit with the animals at the zoo for a jam-packed day. (Dinosaur Safari opens to the public April 11th, reserve tickets in advance)
American Dream Spring Dream Packages This ultimate staycation destination is now offering a number of special deals in time for spring break. The Spring Dream Pass Plus, Spring Dream Pass and The Lucky Seven let you enjoy some of their awesome attractions, including Nickelodeon Universe, DreamWorks Water Park, Angry Birds Golf and The Rink, for less. (One American Dream Way, East Rutherford)
Bergen County Horse Rescue Tours Have an animal lover in the house? Spend the day among the horses by taking a tour of the Bergen County Horse Rescue farm, meeting and hanging with the animals. Bergen County Horse Rescue's mission is to rehabilitate neglected horses and nurse them back to health through love and care, so they can once again thrive. Tours are available can include groups of up to six people, so you can bring your crew, but can also accommodate larger groups, too. (Tours are available Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and can be purchased here, 350 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah)
LEGOLAND New York Resort Spring breakers rejoice. The theme park reopens on April 8th, with new attractions, shows, characters and events to bring added excitement to returning visitors. With a variety of rides and activities to appeal to all ages (adults, too!) the whole family can enjoy a bricktacular day. Want to make it a true getaway? Book a night in the LEGOLAND Hotel with themed rooms and entertainment each night. (1 LEGOLAND Way, Goshen)
