NYC as Classroom

Although most adults know the story of the Titanic (especially those of us who lived through Titanic-mania fueled by the 1997 movie), kids aren't familiar with the ship or its history. Many kids find the tragic story fascinating. My seven-year old son became obsessed with the ill-fated steamship last summer after reading a fictionalized account of the tragedy in the Magic Tree House book Tonight on the Titanic. He had so many questions about how this incredible ship could crash and sink on its very first journey that he went to the library to research the true story. He even watched iceberg simulations on the Internet trying to figure it out!

This week marks the 100th anniversary of the RMS Titanic and while there are lots of events commemorating the catastrophe in New York City (the ship was on its way to the Big Apple, after all), we've rounded up age-appropriate ways for kids to learn about the disaster.

The bankers and the artists may get all the press, but NYC is a great city for science too. There are many wondrous places in New York where kids can soak up, explore and create scientific knowledge for themselves. From Science Museums, Programs, Shops and more, we've rounded up the best places for kids to get scientific in New York City.

We recently wrote about the new Extreme Sleepovers at Ripley's Believe it or Not! Odditorium. Museum Sleepovers are all the rage ever since the Night at The Museum movie hit theaters. Not only can you spend the night at the Museum of Natural History, just like they do in the movies, but you can sleep over at 6 other cool spots as well.

After three years of extensive renovations, the revamped New York Historical Society reopened to the public last week. There are a lot of new additions at this Upper West Side institution: The landmarked building now has a fantastic grand hall that beautifully juxtaposes the past and present; life-size statues of President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass greet visitors at the two entrances; the iconic ceiling from Keith Haring's Pop Shop is on display and there's a new eatery, Caffe Storico.

But the new attraction we're most excited about is the DiMenna Children's History Museum, an interactive, 4,500-square-foot mini-museum that invites kids to explore American history through the eyes of iconic NYC children. No boring memorization of names and dates here; a slew of hands-on activities really engage young visitors. I was impressed with how the stations balance having fun with serious learning. It's a truly groundbreaking achievement, especially since it's one of the few children's history museums in the U.S., and the only one in NYC!

One important thing to note: The DiMenna Children's History Museum is not a typical children's museum. While many of the offerings at CMOM and the Brooklyn Children's Museum skew young, the NY Historical Society's kids' space is best enjoyed by mature elementary, middle and high schoolers. So if you're looking for an Upper West Side spot where your toddler can run amok, this isn't it.

Last week it was all about St. Patrick's Day and yesterday we highlighted a series of amazing Japanese cultural events. But starting April 1 the kilts come out as NYC goes a wee bit Scottish in honor of Tartan Week.

While some of the events, like a parade with thousands of bagpipers and a festival filled with music, dance and games, only happen once a year, there are other ways to celebrate the culture year-round. Here's how to get Scottish in the city with your clan.