Hikes in New Jersey With Waterfalls, Swimming Holes, and More Wet Places to Play

Wander toward the stream on a hike through Hacklebarney State Park. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

Taking the family on a warm summer hike can be scenic, educational, and energizing, but also downright hot! Adding a splash of water to your hike ups the adventure and is a refreshing motivator. The Garden State is home to tons of hiking trails leading to waterfalls, beaches, streams, and other fun spots where kids can dip their toes in the water and cool off a bit in the process.

So, read on for our list of 12 hiking trails where you can enjoy a quick wade or dip. Be sure to pack water shoes as these trails can get wet and sometimes muddy—and a towel is helpful for young hikers who choose to go all in.

Dance Classes for Connecticut Kids: 20 Studios for Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, and More

Photo courtesy of the Hartt School Community Division

Remember the adage telling us to dance like there's nobody watching? One of the amazing things about kids is their propensity to do just that. If you've got a ballet dancer or a breakdancer on your hands, why not harness that creativity and sign them up for dance classes. The Connecticut dance studios below offer kids classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap, modern dance, and even Irish step for kids ranging from toddler to teen. Pick dance classes near you in Fairfield, Hartford, New Haven, or beyond; some studios even offer summer camps for kids who can't stop dancing when the heat is on.

And if your dancers have siblings who'd rather do something other than dance, not to worry: we've got them covered in our Classes and Activities Guide

7 State Parks Near Atlanta for Families to Explore

Cherokee Falls at Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia.

Who says you need to travel far to have fun with your family? Before you plan a large-scale trip, check out these Georgia state parks close to Atlanta. You’ll discover activities and wonders that are almost in your own backyard!

Your kids will love participating in the Junior Ranger Program. Pick up a park-specific book at the visitor center and complete the activities for a badge. Earn additional rewards for multiple camping, hiking, and other events in any of the 48 state parks.

Top Classes for Babies and Toddlers in Boston: Music, Art, Movement

Taking a class together is a sweet way to bond with your mini-me. Photo courtesy of Taste Buds Kitchen

Boston families have lots of kids’ classes and programs for kids to choose from, but if you think you need to wait until your babe is older to start enrolling—think again! From art classes to music classes to movement classes and more, many places offer versions of their big kid classes just for toddlers and babies in Mommy & Me (and Daddy & Me) formats. Stretch together in yoga classes, kick it at soccer classes, or even try out circus school together—not only are these baby classes in Boston a great way to bond with your mini-me, but they also provide stimulation and help babies and toddlers reach developmental milestones.

For more ideas on classes as your kids grow, check out our full guide to the Best Kids' Classes and Activities in the Boston Area

Sports Classes for Kids in Los Angeles: Soccer, Baseball, Basketball

Future all-stars get their start in sports classes. Photo courtesy LA Galaxy

Los Angeles is a sports-centric city (hello, recent slew of championships!) which is probably why we have so many world-class kids' sports classes. And since the weather is so mild, many sports classes can be enjoyed year-round. From summer sports that are iconically associated with LA like surfing and volleyball to traditional team sports like soccer, baseball, and basketball, there are sports activities for every kid! Whether your child is a toddler or teen, and thrives on the comradery of team sports or is more drawn to activities like karate or gymnastics, you can find great sports classes in Los Angeles to fit everyone's passion. 

Check our guide to the Best Kids Classes and Activities in Los Angeles for more kids' activities and programs.

Best In-Person Coding Classes for Kids in Houston

Code Ninjas is a fun coding class near Houston.

Houston is a city of many different languages, so why not give your kid a chance to learn the language of computers by taking a coding class? We’ve rounded up 11 places offering in-person coding classes for kids in the Houston area. Many of these coding schools also offer virtual classes.

Learning how to code is a STEM skill that Houston kids can build upon as they grow up in a world run by technology. Coding skills are important for creating computer software, websites, apps, video games, and more. But it's not just a skill for future jobs: learning how to code helps kids exercise their logic, creativity, and problem-solving skills—traits that will be useful no matter what.

For more information on other types of enrichment classes, check out our local Class Listings or our list of other STEM classes in Houston. You can also find free coding for kids websites and apps.

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