A Home Run for Summer Safety

Stony Brook Children's Night made a successful return to the Long Island Ducks Ballpark, combining America's favorite pastime with an evening focused on health, education, and community engagement.

More than 5,400 fans filled the ballpark as the Long Island Ducks took on the Lancaster Stormers, while families enjoyed the annual Kids Health and Safety Expo presented by Stony Brook Children's Hospital. The first 2,000 fans through the gates also received a special co-branded Long Island Ducks and Stony Brook Children's Hospital baseball cap, adding to the excitement of the evening.

The expo featured 10 interactive exhibits staffed by more than 35 Stony Brook Medicine employees, students, and volunteers. Families had the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities while learning valuable tips to help keep children safe and healthy throughout the summer months.

Among the popular attractions were finger casting demonstrations presented by the Child Life team, tooth-brushing tutorials led by faculty and students from the School of Dental Medicine, and sun safety education provided by nursing staff. Respiratory therapists offered asthma education and breathing exercise demonstrations, while the Infectious Diseases team welcomed visitors to its interactive Lyme Lab, where families learned about preventing tick-borne illnesses.

Dr. Andrew Handel, a board-certified pediatric infectious disease specialist who helped lead the Lyme Lab, also had the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch before the game.

"The Kids Health and Safety Expo has long marked the official start of summer for our office, and we hope that attendees feel prepared for a safe and healthy summer following the expo," said Erika Karp, associate director of University and Medicine Community Relations.

Water safety was another major focus of the evening. Stony Brook Children's Injury Prevention team shared important information about drowning prevention and encouraged families to practice multiple layers of protection around pools and beaches.

"There is no single action that prevents drowning," said Injury Prevention Professional Jamie Ryan. "The safest approach is to build multiple layers of protection, including designating Water Watchers, four-sided pool fencing, life jackets, and swimming at lifeguarded beaches and pools whenever possible."

The event also highlighted community partnerships, with Girl Scouts of Suffolk County Troop 237 volunteer Emily P. demonstrating the proper way to wear a life jacket while sharing water safety information. Wolfie also made a special appearance, helping create smiles throughout the evening.

By blending baseball with interactive learning, Stony Brook Children's Night once again proved to be a winning combination, giving Long Island families an enjoyable evening while promoting healthy and safe habits for the summer ahead.