Curiosity, critical thinking, and a collaborative attitude might be three attributes all parents aspire to see in their children. These are also traits fostered at STEM summer camps where the subjects of science, technology, engineering, and math are turned into hands-on group and individual projects. Whether your teen is itching to found the next hot tech startup or she’s just into robots or maybe biology, summer camp offers kids a great place to explore these subjects in-depth, away from the pressures of the classroom.

We’ve put together a list of some of the top science and tech camps that offer sessions in multiple cities and states across the country. Some offer programs for kids as young as 6; some are more focused on coding and computer science, while others include “STEAM” programming with design, music, writing, and other creative pursuits on the roster. All emphasize hands-on collaboration aimed at creating the next generation of engineers and inventors. In many camps, kids will also gain presentation skills, leadership traits, and most likely, the confidence to stick with these sometimes difficult subjects and tasks...even when they fail. 

Located near Santa Barbara and just two hours away from LA, Santa Ynez Valley feels a world away — it features a cluster of picturesque towns with distinctive charm and hills that stretch for days. Its unusual mountain range orientation (from east to west, rather than north to south) creates microclimates that allow the growth of more than 50 varieties of grapes, making this region (like kid-friendly Temecula) every wine aficionado’s Valhalla.

When it comes to entertaining a Philly tween or teen, it can be challenging to find activities that aren't too babyish and have the appropriate amount of cool. Philly parents must dive deep into their former adolescent-selves to be reminded of what was cool when they were a tween or teen. Thankfully, hanging out at the mall or going to the movies aren’t your only options! We have rounded up some ideas for those struggling on ways to connect with these tween/teen creatures... other than by text and emoji.

The Pick-Your-Own season is bookended by strawberries in the spring and apples in the fall, but what do you do with all those months in between? Pick everything else, of course! The Delaware Valley's many farms and orchards are great spots to haul out the family on nice weather days and haul home buckets, baskets, and bushels of fresh summer fruits, and some sweet memories, too. Many of these farms host summer festivals, family activities, and special events to really round out the day so be sure to search our events calendar for details. For now, read on for our list of the best Philly area farms and get pickin'.

No matter where you live, exploring New England with kids ought to be on your short list of family vacation goals. Steeped in history and natural beauty, the Northeast offers families a chance to learn about the earliest Americans, frolic on snow or sand, and enjoy all sorts of old-fashioned fun, from farm-fresh ice cream to vintage carousels.

Drawing from our carefully curated lists of the best things to do with children in Boston and Connecticut as well as the inside scoop from parents in Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, we've come up with 100 things to see, do, and eat with kids in New England. It includes our favorite beaches, children's museums and amusement parks, charming New England towns with kid-friendly activities, ski and holiday trips, and top seasonal events and carnivals. One thing is for certain: You'll be wicked glad you visited Yankeeland.

Once you've gotten through breakfast and downed your second (or third) cup of coffee, have you ever looked at your toddler and thought, "what the heck am I going to do with you today?" Too young for many full-time schools or camps, too old to just tag along on errands all day, toddlers are suited for fun, interactive activities that don't require a long attention span and will tucker them out for their afternoon nap. Fortunately for parents and caregivers, there are a plenty of great local activities that will get you both out of the house; and many attractions are 100% free for toddlers.

Texas is huge; essentially any trip you take around the state - even more especially from Houston - consitutes as a road trip, whether you're heading to the nearest theme park or to the beach. But there are some specific road trips and routes that can be just as enjoyable as your destination. Here are some of our favorite Texas road trips for families hauling a RV or just trekking across the great Lone Star State because of the enjoyable drives and number of attractions along the way and nearby.

For more travel ideas around Texas, check out our Day Trip Guide, and for family travel destinations across the globe, visit our Ultimate Family Travel Guide.

Spring may have just begun, but a summer of fun is right around the corner, and NYC's favorite nearby theme parks are starting the 2019 season with thrilling new rides, stunning expansions, and stellar upgrades. Luna Park at Coney Island opens this weekend on Saturday, April 6 with new attractions, and New York State's biggest indoor water park at brand-new Catskills resort The Kartrite is set to open on Friday, April 19.

Keep this post close when planning your next theme park destination getaway. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, these theme parks are all under 2 hours from NYC. Read on for a sneak peek at what's new and exciting this year at amusement parks close to NYC, from Coney to Hershey.