Best Karate Classes in Westchester for Kids

Karate classes at Ki Martial Arts increase flexibility, balance, and strength, add add to a child's confidence.

When some people think of karate, they imagine epic martial arts battles seen in movies or on TV.  But those images don’t really represent what karate is all about. Westchester County has a number of karate classes to introduce kids to the self-discipline, mental attitude, coordination, spirituality, and respect the sport requires.

So whether you are looking for a fun and healthy activity for your child, or you want to expose them to the full range of skills martial arts offer, Westchester County karate classes have a program that is right for your child. With that in mind, read on for details on some of the best local karate classes available.

See our guide to kids classes in Westchester for even more inspiration.  

25 Things To Do in Verona With Kids

Enjoy a royal adventure at Verona's Kips Castle. Photo by the author

Essex County is home to so many amazing family-friendly towns, but Verona is definitely one of our favorite small towns in New Jersey. Nestled between Montclair and West Orange, Verona enjoys proximity to these great communities but has a distinct personality and flavor that's all its own.

Verona is probably most well known for Verona Park, a 54.32-acre park with a lake bordered by Lakeside and Bloomfield Avenues, situated in the southern part of town. It's the fifth-largest park within the Essex County Parks system. But, Verona is also home to an actual castle. Not to mention, the town is a robust hub of excitement that's easily walkable, with a slew of fantastic eateries and shops to visit. With a population of about 13,000 residents, Verona caters to its diverse community with engaging family-friendly events and cultural entertainment throughout the year. It's the best of both worlds—small-town charm coupled with the perks of a big city.

Read on for 25 of our favorite things to do in Verona. Come for the park but stick around for so much more!

Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in NYC to Tackle This Fall

Let your kids loose to run free on the hiking trails right here in NYC. Photo by Sara M.

At least once a quarter, usually coinciding with the change of seasons, someone in my family decides it's time to escape to the woods and hit the hiking trails. But really, there's no need to head upstate or to the 'burbs to get your outdoor fix. Our fair city is home to more than 300 miles of hiking trails and 10,000 acres of unencumbered nature.

We have sampled enough parks around NYC and spent enough time exploring the great outdoors to confidently share this list of family-friendly hiking trails within city limits. These hiking trails vary in length, scenery, and difficulty. Some are just right for little legs, and all reward hikers with views of water, bridges, and yes, gorgeous fall foliage. No matter what borough you call home, we hope you have a blast lacing up and hitting one of these hiking trails. You can find more outdoor places to play and explore in our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds.

How To Set Limits on a Kids’ New Cell Phone

Selfies are fun, but make sure kids know how to be cell phone safe and smart. Photo courtesy of Kampus Productions, Pexels

“New phone, who dis?” As they head back to school, your kids may have renewed their pleas for a cell phone. Of course they want one—cell phones and smartphones are omnipresent in our lives. While having a phone might be practical (and feel inescapable), many parents struggle to come up with rules that will not only keep their kids safe but will stop them from turning into zombies! 

While experts all have their own opinions, I know that the best advice comes from the been-there done-that parents in the trenches. That’s why I turned to our readers and got their (your!) best tried and true tips and tricks for making sure your whole family is on the same page when it comes to those new cell phones.

Affordable At-Home Yoga and Fitness Classes for the Whole Family—Plus, a FREE Trial

Bulldog Yoga is all about bringing fun live and on-demand online yoga and fitness classes to kids and grownups.

Whether you’re a total newbie or an experienced yogi, Bulldog Yoga is all about demystifying the practice and bringing fun and non-intimidating online yoga and fitness classes to kids and grownups alike. If, like me, you’re trying to squeeze a little exercise into your family’s undoubtedly busy schedule or you’re not ready to head back to the gym, the library of live and recorded classes for all levels makes yoga approachable and accessible in a whole new way.

Of course, there’s no shortage of options out there when it comes to online fitness, so what makes Bulldog Yoga different from other online platforms? I gave it a try so I could answer that exact question. Read on for answers, and see for yourself with a free 30-day trial for Mommy Poppins readers.

Family-Friendly Wineries and Cider Mills for a Fun Getaway Near NYC

Enjoy a family-friendly winery visit at Harbes Vineyard in Mattituck.

It’s that time of year—there’s a hint of fall in the air. The leaves are on the brink of changing, and pumpkin flavors are already wafting through the air and filling store shelves. While apple picking outings might already be on your calendar, don't overlook a seasonal fall trip to a local winery, cider mill, or vineyard.

Fall is the perfect time to check out this different kind of harvest, and we've found nine cider mills, wineries, and vineyards near New York City that are happy to welcome you and your kids. We’ve organized these wineries and cider mills by the approximate distance from NYC, beginning with the closest sites. For more options, visit these spots in Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Long Island. Be sure to check out our Fall Fun Guide for more autumnal entertainment.

An Alpine Adventure Awaits in Helen, Georgia

Step into a Bavarian village without ever having to leave the state when you visit Helen, Georgia.

Families, tired of the same scenery as travel plans remain in flux, should try something unique: a Bavarian-style village right here in Georgia! Head to the town of Helen, Georgia, tucked in the mountains and only 90 miles from Atlanta. 

Featuring high pitched roofs, half-timbered exteriors, and wooden balconies spilling over with flowers, Helen, Georgia reinvented itself from a dying lumber town to a major tourist destination. Today, it is home to the longest-running Oktoberfest celebration in the country and welcomes over 1 million visitors annually. With numerous shops, restaurants, and activities, Helen can be a bit overwhelming. Let our guide below show you the best family-friendly activities for your visit.

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