Remote learning is now the norm for many American schoolkids, whether that's temporary, part-time, or a yearlong reality. As the year grinds on, parents may be struggling to find ways to keep kids from wandering away from the screen but also to just focus and actually absorb the daily online classes. One thing that some educators and children's therapists are recommending is the use of fidget spinners or fidget toys, as well as sensory items and flexible seating that allows for wiggling and movement.

"You want things they can fidget with but aren't super interesting so that they then become consumed in it, so I would avoid building materials — Magna-Tiles, Legos — or art supplies," says Nina Essel, LSW MS Ed, owner and founder for Balanced Kids, a parent coaching and consulting company in New Jersey.

As a mom to two virtual learners, I asked Essel and several other therapists and educators for their top tips to help parents trying to set kids up for success in remote learning. Here are the fidget spinners, tools, and tips they offered. Find more resources in our Homeschooling & Remote Learning Guide.

New Yorkers tired of being cooped up inside, trapped behind a screen in home offices, or zooming through a day of hybrid learning, should have plenty of motivation to enjoy the great outdoors. Fall is jam-packed with things to do in New York City and there's plenty of parkland to explore. Regular schedules have been turned upside down, and the threat of the pandemic still lingers, particularly indoors.

That makes it the perfect time to get outdoors for some unstructured, messy playtime. From chilly folliage hikes to muddy puddle stomping, we've rounded up 25 dig-in-the-dirt, you're-gonna-need-a-bath-tonight ways for city kids to enjoy the coming autumnal days outdoors. So, step away from the screen and get outside.

LA County Health officials have at long last announced that parks and playgrounds around Los Angeles can reopen, after a closure of more than six months for the relentless COVID-19 pandemic. It's not surprising that all over the Southland parents are scrambling for shoes and asking each other "Where? When??" The problem is that, as encouraging as the October 5 announcement sounds, practical answers to "Which playground??" are not so easy to come by. But go ahead and find that other shoe, because some playgrounds have already begun reopening.

We’re all spending more time at home these days, so toys are playing an even more critical role in entertaining, delighting, and educating our kiddos. This holiday season might be a bit quieter, a bit more low-key, but I suspect it makes us all want to spoil our kids as much as possible, surprising them with the perfect holiday and Christmas wish list pick. 

We’ve scoured all of the online lists, from Amazon to Scholastic, reviews, and guides to bring you the best of the best holiday toys for the season. These popular items are sure to entertain and win you major points for getting everything on their Christmas wish list and more. We’ve included toys and electronics from favorites like Legos, Barbie, Disney, and even a few new favorites. Go ahead and shop your heart out! 

My kids know fall is my season. Warm sunny days and crisp nights, the brilliant hues of changing leaves, apple picking, and all things pumpkin make autumn uniquely enjoyable. The Fall Escape, an all-new outdoor exhibition at the Queens County Farm Museum, captures the season's magic and whimsy. The farm, one of our beloved NYC institutions, has partnered with The Floral Escape to bring to life this stunning installation celebrating the beauty of autumn.

Read on for details on the brightly hued, flower-filled, photo-friendly exhibit, and be sure to check out our Fall Fun Guide for more fun ways to enjoy the season.

"Halloween is on," declared Governor Phil Murphy at Monday's COVID-19 press conference. The New Jersey governor made the declaration as the state department of health released its full Halloween 2020 safety guidelines for Jersey families, schools, and organizations.

The state is not banning trick-or-treating, but rather asking the public to modify the format to reduce contact with those not in your household. It's also encouraging proper mask wearing and outdoor Halloween activities instead of indoor events.

Late last month, the CDC ruled trick-or-treating, and most Halloween activities, as high-risk unless strict social distancing can be observed.

Do you have a child who loves adventure—or who can often be found scaling walls or scrambling up trees? While a family hike is always a great outlet for these high-energy kiddos, you might want to up the ante with a day trip to an outdoor zip line course or ropes course in Connecticut. Our state is home to a number of zip line courses with a range of age-appropriate challenges that will excite thrill-seekers young and old. 

What if the weather is cold or wet? Kids can put their climbing skills to the test at It Adventures Ropes Course in New Haven, or monkey around at these Connecticut indoor obstacle courses instead. 

Do you have a child who loves adventure—or who can often be found scaling walls or scrambling up trees? While a family hike is always a great outlet for these high-energy kiddos, you might want to up the ante with a day trip to an outdoor zip line course or ropes course around Boston. Massachusetts is home to a number of zip line courses with a range of age-appropriate challenges that will excite thrill-seekers young and old. 

What if the weather is cold or wet? Kids can monkey around at these Boston-area indoor obstacle courses instead.