Playtime In Ditmas Park: Upcoming Children’s Events
Looking for something to do with the whole family this week? From free rowing in Prospect Park to learning about sharks at the Cortelyou Library, there are a lot of great kid-friendly events coming up in our area. See the full details below!
For more things to do around Brooklyn, and to add your own upcoming event, check out our calendar.
The New York Aquarium Presents: Mystery of the Deep — Sharks!
When: Wednesday, June 24, 4pm
Where: Cortelyou Library, 1305 Cortelyou Road
What: The New York Aquarium is bringing its world of sharks to the Cortelyou Library, where you’ll get to learn about these amazing animals that have been around long before dinosaurs even existed. Take part in interactive activities, including trivia, observations and examination of shark artifacts. This is recommended for children ages 6-9. The program is limited to 35 participants.
How much: Free!
‘The Taming Of The Shrew’ In Prospect Park
When: Wednesday, June 24, 7-9pm
Where: Prospect Park’s Grand Army Plaza
What: Introduce your kids to Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” which will be presented for free by the New York Classical Theater.
How much: Free!
Sing-Along With Debbie Deane
When: Wednesday, June 24, 11am
Where: Lark Cafe, 1007 Church Avenue
What: Belt out some family favorites with local mom and recording artist Debbie Deane.
How much: $5 per family
Cortelyou Friends Storytime
When: Thursday, June 25, 10:30-11:30am
Where: Cortelyou Library, 1305 Cortelyou Road
What: Bring your little ones, through the age of five, to hear some lively storytelling from the always fantastic Cortelyou Library Friends.
How much: Free!
Jam With The Dad Beats
When: Thursday, June 25, 11am
Where: Lark Cafe, 1007 Church Avenue
What: Made up of three real-live Brooklyn dads (and neighbors), The Dad Beats traverse surf, rock and country grooves to deliver playful reimaginings of your childhood favorites.
How much: $10 per family
Nature Exploration
When: Thursdays & Fridays, 12-4pm
Where: Audubon Center, Prospect Park
What: Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from games for bird nerds to Citizen Science projects to a chance to meet a resident snake.
How much: Free!
Kids Create At Cortelyou Library
When: Thursday, June 25, 3-4pm
Where: Cortelyou Library, 1305 Cortelyou Road
What: Children ages 6-12 are invited to meet new friends at this arts and crafts program at the library.
How much: Free!
Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Disco
When: Friday, June 26, 7:30-10pm
Where: LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park
What: Get out your best 90s gear for neighbor Lola Star’s “Bust a Move” roller skating party, which will include dazzling performers, kitschy contests, giveaways, and, of course, a whole lot of 90s pop and vintage hip hop.
How much: $18 per person, which includes event admission and skate rentals
Lavender Blues Sing-Along
When: Saturday, June 27, 9:30 & 10:30
Where: Lark Cafe, 1007 Church Avenue
What: Bring your babies and toddlers to the Lavender Blues sing-along, when the kids will have a blast singing, playing instruments, dancing, and playing with a ginormous parachute!
How much: $8 per family
Nature Exploration
When: Saturdays & Sundays, 10am-1pm
Where: Audubon Center, Prospect Park
What: Much like on the weekdays, families can enjoy a variety of activities, including bird watching, nature-based projects, and more.
How much: Free!
Pop-Up Audubon
When: Saturdays & Sundays, 11am-4pm
Where: Eastwood, Prospect Park
What: This month, through hikes, birding tours, and more, families will get to know a thing or two about the wonderful warblers that visit the park at this time of year.
How much: Free!
Free Public Rowing
When: Saturday, June 27, 12-4pm
Where: Prospect Park’s Wellhouse Boat Ramp
What: Check out Prospect Park Lake by rowboat, thanks to the Prospect Park Alliance and Village Community Boathouse — which have again teamed up to offer the free public rowing every saturday.
How much: Free!
Kids Yoga With Yoga Jen
When: Sunday, June 28, 10am
Where: Lark Cafe, 1007 Church Avenue
What: Come dance, play and move into animal poses during this 35-minute class with your little one. Space is limited, and it’s first-come, first-served. Contact instructor Jen Pinna at gamm57@aol.com for more information.
How much: $15 per family; $1 more if you want to rent a mat
Toddler Tuesdays
When: Tuesday, June 30, 9:30am
Where: LeFrak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park
What: Enjoy some toddler-only dedicated skate time on the rink, as kids ages 2-5 and their caregivers will skate to instructor-led games, music, play-based activities — plus there are snacks and beverages.
How much: $15 for one child and accompanying adult; adult skate rentals are $5 (kid skate and helmet rentals are included). Tickets available in advance.
Sing-Along With Miss Katie
When: Tuesday, June 30, 11am
Where: Lark Cafe, 1007 Church Avenue
What: Singing a mix of classic kid favorites and rare folk gems, Miss Katie is known for bringing the sing-along fun to Brooklyn families! As one parent put it, “Miss Katie knows how to connect with caregivers, parents and children to bring out the rhythm in all of us.”
How much: $10 per family