Winter arrived this week in Bergen County. It came with a major nor’easter that brought 5-7 inches of snow and freezing temperatures. Because we had an unseasonably warm fall this is quite a change. As a result, winter activities for kids is now a focus for families. Bergen County has the solution because we have many options for you.
Campgaw Mountain is a terrific opportunity for winter fun. You can ski, snowboard and tube there. Located in Mahwah it’s no more than a half hour drive from anywhere in Bergen County. Think of it as a winter sports vacation for the day.
Campgaw runs a wonderful learning program for children. Cruisers gives you a specifically designed ski program for 4-6 year olds with an emphasis on fun first. Mountain Masters handles children age 7 and older as well as adults. This is a newly created program where you are
grouped by ability. Because Mountain Masters starts at the beginner level it’s ideal for older children who want to learn or improve on their skiing and snowboarding abilities.
Local nature centers have all sorts of winter activities for kids too. From hiking trails to indoor classes children have fun while learning about the natural world in winter. The Tenafly Nature Center features a variety of programs while Flat Rock Brook Nature Center keeps it’s popular nature walks going throughout the winter. The Closter Nature Center has after school programs starting at Pre K after school in January. This begins next week.
Call your local library too. Here’s a great example: The Ridgewood Public Library features fabulous programs for children as well as for for teens. You will be amazed at all the free offerings from your local library.
The Y is another great resource for children in so many ways. Go to the Bergen YMCA website where you’ll find what seems to be an endless stream of opportunities.
Bergen County is so lucky because we have several terrific live theater groups. They give children the opportunity to take theater, dance and music classes. The Saddle River Youth Theater and Bergen PAC offer extensive youth programs.
Check your local public school and town recreation department. They have after school and vacation week programs. Toddler classes such as Mommy and Me are very popular too.
Bergen County hosts a wide variety of winter activities for kids both outside and indoor. Get involved in what we have and make winter a fun learning experience.
Because of the storm this week, I couldn’t contact a few other places. Call me if you’d like those updates next week at 201-741-8490.
