In Eastern Connecticut, on the edge of the Connecticut River, a small unassuming building holds many archeological treasures, history lessons, nautical artwork, and a full-sized replica of the first American submarine. The 22nd Annual Train Show is a special seasonal attraction for visitors of all ages, and only a few minutes away, a ride on the North Pole Express awaits at the Essex Steam Train Station. 

The latest Disney-Pixar flick comes roaring into theaters this week with astoundingly rendered background art; themes of family, friendship, and overcoming fear, and starring roles for those kid-favorite critters, dinosaurs. Though largely aimed at a younger crowd, The Good Dinosaur is rated PG, and some themes and moments may be a little too intense for more sensitive viewers. Read on to find out if this film is appropriate for your family (and why it's worth seeing at Hollywood's El Capitan for folks in LA this holiday season).

Kids and grown-ups of all ages turn up the Christmas music this time of year! After all, it’s one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit. Most of us smile and sing along to the modern and age-old holiday music for a few weeks, but eventually, those songs wear out their welcome, leaving families searching for a little twist on festive tunes.

Enter Laurie Berkner, who families may recognize as a popular kindie music artist. My family recently saw her live holiday concert in Philadelphia—read on to find out more about why we loved the show.

With the opening of the Lynch Family Skatepark in East Cambridge near the Museum of Science, skateboarders and BMX bikers have reason to rejoice after waiting for 10 years. The new skatepark features an awesome design. The atmosphere is cool, the setting in uniquely industrial, and the people using it are friendly. 

However, unless children know how to shred on a skateboard, push their bike to the limits, or are particularly nimble on a scooter, they may be better off just watching.

Ready to make some good, old-fashioned Christmas memories? Families will cherish moments with Santa Claus and the oohs and ahhs that come when the local Christmas trees light up for the first time! Tree lighting ceremonies and holiday parade season is almost upon us. Delaware County, like much of the Philadelphia region, boasts its share of opportunities to get into the season right in your backyard. So get bundled up, pack your thermos of hot chocolate, and enjoy the show!

Don't forget to check out our Events Calendar for even more festive fun!

Like many parents, I'm planning to spend much of the long holiday weekend doing some of my favorite things: eating leftovers, relaxing with family, and enjoying some holiday fun. With the most festive activities ramping up to full speed around town these days, families have their pick of great events. Seeing the Nutcracker might be at the top of your kids' wish list, and if so, you can take advantage of several productions opening this weekend, including a perennial favorite with the Boston Ballet (pictured). Little ones won't want to miss a sing-a-long movie about a beloved governess and young music fans might like the chance to listen to more than 150 tubas at once, but I'm personally looking forward to taking my kids to a show under the sea. This weekend also boasts several tree lightings in the area, something for those of you who'd rather celebrate trees indoors, and on top of that, a special Star Wars Night at ZooLights.

Also on Mommy Poppins Boston this week:

• Hanukkah starts December 6 this year, and our roundup of celebrations can help you fill your family's holiday calendar.
• If you've got a fourth or fifth grader, you'll want to check out these skiing deals in New England for this winter.
• The Friday after Thanksgiving is a big day: It's when most Christmas tree farms open for cut-your-own season. 

Enjoy your weekend and don't forget to check out the full Event Calendar!

The story of Peter Pan is universal and beloved by children everywhere. While it’s probably most well-known as a Disney movie, it was originally a play written in 1904 by Scotland’s J.M. Barrie.

Finding Neverland, which hit Broadway earlier this year, explores Barrie’s process and inspiration for writing the play. While it centers around Peter Pan and contains plenty of references to characters we know and love, going into Finding Neverland anticipating a show about Wendy and the Lost Boys will leave you disappointed. But recreating the magic of Peter Pan is not what Finding Neverland is about.