Author: Family Times
By Dr. Greg Carnevale, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of New York Sniffles and sneezes are an inevitable part of growing up. But if your child has a lingering runny nose and cough — or both appear around the same time each year — it could be seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies typically happen in the spring, summer, and early fall. Symptoms of seasonal allergies typically start to show up in children after the age of 3 and most prominently around 5 to 6 years. If your child has been diagnosed with eczema or asthma, they’re also more likely to develop allergies. If…
Inspiring Curiosity Through Real Stories of Animals, Space, History, Science, and Self In an age where kids are surrounded by endless entertainment options, documentaries offer something refreshingly real—stories that educate, inspire, and open up new worlds of curiosity. From a cozy family movie nights or wanting to supplement a homeschool lesson, the right documentary can spark lasting interest in science, history, the environment, and even self-growth.To help guide your journey, we’ve curated 50 of the best documentaries grouped into five exciting categories: Animal, Space, History, Education, and Self Development. 🐾 Animal DocumentariesThere’s something magical about watching wildlife through the lens of…
It’s that time of year again!Are you looking for day camps for your child or teen—but aren’t sure where to start?Whether they are interested in art, sports, or academics (or you’re just looking for a traditional day camp), you’ll find plenty of options in our annual directory.Please note: This information was up to date at the time of publication. Please visit each website to confirm details. Traditional Day CampsGirl Scouts of NYPENN PathwaysGSNYPENN is operating four camps this summer—and your child doesn’t have to be in the program to attend any of them. Busing is available from Syracuse. Ages: Grades…
The sun is a double-edged sword—it gives life, warmth, and plenty of reasons to get outside, but it also carries hidden dangers, especially for kids. Every parent knows the struggle of chasing down a wriggling child, sunscreen bottle in hand, trying to apply a protective layer before they bolt toward the beach, the playground, or the soccer field. The battle is real, but it’s one worth fighting. Children’s skin is far more sensitive than adults’, making them more vulnerable to sunburn and long-term damage from UV exposure. A single blistering sunburn in childhood can double the risk of melanoma later…
Birthday parties are a big deal for kids, and the right venue can make all the difference. Fortunately, Family Times is here to help! We’ve put together a list of some options in Central New York to make your planning a little bit easier:Bowling AlleysB’ville Sports BowlWhere: 45 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville.More information: bvillesportsbowl.com.$ to $$$Canastota Hi-Way BowlWhere: 3314 Seneca Turnpike, Canastota.More information: canastotahiwaybowl.com.$Flamingo BowlWhere: 7239 Oswego Road, Liverpool.More information: flamingobowlcny.com.$ to $$Green Lakes Bowling and EntertainmentWhere: 7930 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville.More information: greenlakesbowling.com.Entertainment Venues5 Wits SyracuseWhere: 10351 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse.More information: 5-wits.com/Syracuse.$$ to $$$Apex EntertainmentWhere: 9583 Destiny USA Drive,…
Recipe and photo courtesy of Hood Ingredients 24 baby potatoes (about 1 inch in diameter) 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ teaspoon salt and pepper ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese ½ cup Hood® Sour Cream 12 oz Squeeze Bottle 4 slices bacon, cooked and finely chopped 2 green onions, thinly sliced Directions STEP 1 Place the potatoes in a medium bowl. Add oil, salt, and pepper and toss to coat the potatoes evenly. STEP 2 Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes or until tender. Allow to…
Whether you’re looking to get out of the house and embrace the cold weather, or would rather stay indoors, we’ve got you covered with our annual Central New York winter activities guide: Allyn Ice Arena Offering: Ice skating. 📍 97 State St., Skaneateles, NY. Baltimore Woods Nature Center Offering: Snowshoeing and hiking. 📍 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus, NY. Beaver Lake Nature Center Offering: Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking. 📍 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY. Camillus Ski Hill Offering: Skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. 📍 401 Blackmore Road, Camillus, NY. Clark Reservation State Park Offering:…
It’s a big year for the Erie Canal; the waterway is turning 200! Here are a few places you can celebrate in Central New York this summer—and beyond:Upcoming Events:Canal Day 2025Join the Town of DeWitt for a once-in-a-generation celebration marking the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal! Enjoy a full day of family fun featuring live music, kids activities, local food and brews, emergency vehicle demos, raffles, a bubble playground, and fireworks to end the night. Where: 5400 Butternut Dr, East Syracuse, NYWhen: Saturday, August 16 | 12 – 9 p.m.For more, check out our CNY events calendar!Museums, Parks, and Historic…
With the holidays right around the corner, are you still searching for the perfect gift for a friend or family member? You’ll find something for all ages—and interests—in our annual CNY gift guide. Shop Small Business Saturday in Central New York These local shops offer something for everyone so you can shop local for Small Business Saturday and beyond. We’ve also included websites where possible. Many of these shops offer online ordering so you can still support local businesses without having to leave home! Artisans’ Corner (Clinton, NY) Located in the picturesque village of Clinton, Artisans’ Corner showcases work from…
For more than three decades, families around Central New York have been making Lights on the Lake part of their holiday traditions. The event returns to Onondaga Lake Park for its 36th season, opening on November 17th.Here is everything you need to know:Buy Tickets Now and SaveUse code LOLSANTA to take $5 off any night (excluding Charity Nights) when you buy tickets before November 16th! Dates and HoursLights on the Lake officially opens Nov. 17 and continues through Jan. 12. Cars can drive through the show from 5-10 p.m. each day—but keep in mind, weekends tend to be busiest.AdmissionTickets must be…