Free Long Island events for kids: Roller skating, swimming and more

Cousins Max, 8, and Grace Slayton of Syosset, 10, enjoy an afternoon roller skating session at United Skates of America in Seaford Wednesday, February 5, 2014. Credit: Barry Sloan
Whether you're looking for something to do with the kids during February break or beyond, children can enjoy activities from swimming, roller skating and stargazing while parents can relish in their savings.
Here's a list of free things to do with the kids in February and March on Long Island.
IKEA FREE KIDS CRAFT NIGHT
Where: 1100 Broadway Mall, Hicksville
When: First Tuesday of every month, 6 p.m.
More info: Register here; 516-681-4532
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MACARONI KID'S ST. PATRICK’S DAY GOLD HUNT AND FAMILY SWIM
Take the whole family swimming at Goldfish’s indoor pool while enjoying a leprechaun gold hunt, raffles and snacks. Raffles will be available for $1 per ticket or 12 tickets for $10, cash only.
Where: Goldfish Swim School, 141 Centereach Mall, Centereach
When: March 15 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
More info: Register here beginning Feb. 21 at 8 a.m.; 631-405-4111, goldfishswimschool.com/centereach
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THE CODER SCHOOL COMMACK GRAND OPENING PARTY
Refreshments, games and STEM activities including robotics, coding and VR. Meet the school’s Code Coaches and participate in coding challenges.
Where: 6558 Jericho Turnpike, Commack
When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on March 14
Price: Free
More info: Register here; 631-270-5602, thecoderschool.com
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STARS ON SUNDAY
Kids of all ages can view the Moon, Uranus, star clusters, nebulae and double stars with telescopes from the Hofstra Observatory after a presentation about the sky in room 117.
Where: Hofstra Observatory, Berliner Hall, 826 Huntington Pl., Uniondale
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on March 1, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on April 5
Price: Free
More info: Register here for March 1, for groups of more than 10 contact observatory@hofstra.edu; hofstra.edu/astronomy
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FREE CRAFTS FOR KIDS
Make your own paper rocket or colorful rainbow fish at these weekly craft sessions.
Where: Lakeshore Learning Center, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays
More info: For children ages 3 and up; (516) 616-9360, lakeshorelearning.com
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BINOCULARS WORKSHOP
With help from parents and store associates, children will create their own pair of binoculars to take home. Kids will get to keep their craft and will receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin while supplies last.
Where: Home Depot, 172 Fulton Ave., Hempstead
When: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on March 7
More info: Attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. Register here; 516-565-3700