While we love spotlighting all of the FREE and inexpensive activities New York City has to offer families, sometimes it's fun to toss your budget aside and splurge on an unforgettable, extra-special experience. Whether you're celebrating a big birthday, holiday, or a stellar report card, visiting on vacation, or just feel like treating your child to some amazing memories, the Big Apple is full of over-the-top options you can't enjoy anywhere else in the world. We've rounded up 10 of our favorites, from ideas to make the best Broadway shows even better, to up close and personal sporting events, to new ways to see our beloved city from the air—and beyond!

It is a known fact that the brains of young children are primed to learn languages and the earlier they are exposed to a language, the easier it is for them to learn it. Research has shown that there are many benefits to learning a second language, including higher self-esteem, better test scores, enhanced creativity, a higher level of complex problem solving, and an appreciation of other cultures. And that's not to mention increased employability as an adult in our increasingly globalized and diverse society.

The natural ability of young children to learn a second, or third, language makes a dual-language or language immersion preschool a great option for childcare and may even save you money in the long run when your kids test out of college language credits! Consider giving your child the gift of a second language and check out these 10 language immersion and dual language preschools located in and around Houston. 

If you live near Boston and have curious kids, you've probably made lots of memories at the Museum of Science already. And while it would be absurd to say a life-size T-Rex and simulated lightning get old, exactly, it takes something new to galvanize us to return to Science Park on a busy weekend in wintertime. After a Saturday afternoon, I can say that the new temporary exhibit, is worth a return—or, if you have never been, a first—trip.

Monday, February 20th is Presidents' Day. And, although most children have the day off from school, many Philly parents are not so fortunate. Thankfully, we have rounded up some great one-day camp opportunities to make life a bit easier. Whether it is art, drama, or nature, there is something for everyone on the list. View the options below to see what best fits your child's personality and interests. If you happen to have the day off as well, be sure to browse our events calendar as we have listed many family-friendly activities throughout the Delaware Valley.

It seems as if we've finally adjusted to being back from holiday break when it's time to start planning for the next week off from school! Whether you need to work or are just having a Westchester staycation, a school-break camp can be a great way for kids to spend their week off from the grind. 

Whether your child enjoys sports or art (or both), Westchester is full of choices, and we've rounded up some of our favorites here. Be sure to sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the latest events, classes, news and more happening in Westchester, and follow us on Facebook! 

The Northlandz train museum in Flemington had long been on my hit list of day trips to share with my boys, ages 3 and 5. After all, it's home to the world's largest model railroad. But I was a little hesitant after hearing some mixed opinions about it. Some families felt it was a gem for train lovers, while others thought the museum was outdated and pricey. When the opportunity arose to see for myself what Northlandz was all about, my family made its way to Flemington to check it out. I’m very glad we did; we had a fabulous time, and I’d definitely plan a return trip. I will say, however, that the museum may not be for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Children’s curiosity is boundless, especially when learning about the world around them, and food has the power to educate while filling our bellies with yumminess. Coq au vin? Paella? Pansotti alla genovese? Chow Mein? Moussaka? You’re getting hungry…very hungry...and below are 10 suggestions for international cuisine in the Hartford area, where you can turn a family lunch or dinner into an exciting opportunity to try a new texture or spice. For even more fun, perhaps your family can practice learning a few words in a foreign language or listening to music from that particular culture. If you're feeling really ambitious, you can even try to replicate favorite recipes at home, at a later time. Of course, Connecticut abounds with delicious eateries, so you can also check out some ethnic family-friendly restaurants in the New Haven area. 

Our sweet-treat-obsessed city is always on the lookout for the next big thing in desserts. I am happy to report it is here—and it's cookie dough. Specifically, the 17 varieties of safe-to-eat uncooked dough dished out at DÕ, Cookie Dough Confections, NYC's first cookie dough scoop shop located in Greenwich Village.