The Power of Play at HarborFest

HarborFest has always been a celebration of community, and this year we were honored to partner with the Parent Resource Center for the Bestness Express train ride. We hoped to create a space where children and families could have fun, connect, and engage in meaningful conversations. The response exceeded anything we imagined.

More Than Just Play

Hundreds of children visited our booth to "Find Their Ness." Armed with a fishing rod and a little curiosity, children cast their lines into a mini pond to catch a duck. Hidden underneath each duck was a special "ness" - Togetherness, Braveness, Calmness, Happiness, Silliness, or Playfulness.

What happened next was our favorite part.

After discovering their "ness," children spoke with one of our clinicians about what the word meant to them. Some immediately connected with their word. Others were curious.

"What does togetherness mean?"

"Can I be brave and scared at the same time?"

"When do you feel calm?"

These simple questions opened the door to thoughtful conversations about feelings, relationships, and experiences. Parents joined in, sharing their own perspectives and helping their children explore the meaning behind the words. While it looked like a game, it was also something more.

Developing social-emotional skills begins with having language for our emotions and experiences. Before children can communicate emotions, build resilience, or navigate challenges, they need words and concepts that help them understand themselves and others. Creating opportunities for these conversations helps build awareness, connection, and emotional literacy within our community.

Building Resilience

Of course, HarborFest was all about fun. As a reward for finding their "ness," children received one of our now-famous dumpling squishies. We knew kids would like them. We didn't realize just how much. By the end of the event, we had given away over 600!

Our raffle basket was another crowd favorite. Children eagerly entered for a chance to win, imagining what it would be like if their name was drawn. And while there could only be one winner, even that offered a subtle lesson.

Part of growing up is learning that some things are within our control and some things are not. We can choose to participate, hope, and try our best. Winning and losing, however, are not always ours to decide. These everyday experiences help children gradually build resilience and perspective.

Connectedness

Most of all, HarborFest reminded us of something we deeply value at Ness360: the importance of connection.

In a world that often feels busy and disconnected, community events create opportunities for people to slow down, engage with one another, and feel part of something larger than themselves. They allow children to see connection modeled in real time and remind all of us that relationships are at the heart of emotional well-being.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who stopped by our booth, rode the train, shared a conversation, entered the raffle, or simply said hello. Thank you for welcoming us so warmly and for helping make HarborFest such a memorable experience.

We left feeling inspired, energized, and even more connected to the Port Washington community. We hope you did too.