Should you co-pilot your kids' career?
My proud dad, at my college graduation in 2007, was kind enough to drive me the 100 miles roundtrip to my first job interview. Credit: Pat Conry
It was a 48-mile drive to my first job interview a few months after graduating from Hofstra University with my bachelor's degree in journalism in 2007.
As I watched the scenery around me change from the familiar Long Island roads and congested city skylines to the more tree-lined parkways of Westchester, where the leaves were already turning, I was excited but nervous.
A t least I didn't have to worry about driving or getting lost on my way to the Reader's Digest offices in Pleasantville. My dad was at the wheel.
But his help ended at the parking lot.
That's not always the case for today's new college graduates and their parents.
A recent survey found that parents of Gen Z job seekers are navigating their kids' careers to a greater degree — a phenomenon being called "career co-piloting." Some are even going so far as contacting hiring managers and applying for jobs on their child's behalf, even negotiating offers.
I thankfully have another 10 years before I need to worry about my kids launching their careers, but I understand that desire to help your kids succeed in a very competitive world.
Find out what Long Island parents are doing and what experts have to say.
Gen Zers entering the job market are facing "an unusually challenging time," experts say. Credit: Morgan Campbell
Regents not required?
One thing students — and their parents — might not need to worry about in the near future though, is passing New York State Regents exams in order to graduate high school.
The state Board of Regents gave the green light this week to begin revamping graduation requirements, which would make the tests optional beginning with the 2027-28 school year.
Under the new graduation framework being discussed, students would have other opportunities to exhibit proficiency. Learn more.
A Pilates boom
Kerri Carroll during a Pilates class at Studio 60 in Farmingdale. Credit: Alejandra Villa Loarca
It was probably around the early 2000s that I first found myself on the floor of a fitness studio, feet elevated in the air and flapping my arms incessantly as an instructor counted to 100.
It's been some time since I have been on a Pilates mat, but those core-focused workouts are making a comeback.
After a pandemic-related drop, Pilates has rebounded to become one of the top five fitness trends in the world. More studios are opening up on Long Island, including a few we visited to see what the hype is all about.
Top 50 restaurants
Kyma in Roslyn is among the Long Island restaurants in our newest Top 50 guide. Credit: Stephanie Foley
And if you're looking to plan a date, a moms' night out, a special birthday dinner for a family member or just want a great meal at a new spot — no reasons needed — Newsday's FeedMe team has launched their 2026 guide to the 50 best restaurants on Long Island. Check it out.
And follow Long Island Moms on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected to more stories that matter to you.
Have some thoughts for me? Email workingmoms@newsday.com.
