It’s that time of year where you're likely to spend lots of time shopping. We all know it’s a challenge to go shopping with kids and even more so if your kid has watched those YouTube kids' shows where they open a new toy every 10 seconds. My 3-year-old knows more about all the newest toys than I ever will. If shopping at big-box stores is overwhelming, or if you simply are a fan of shopping small and local, here are eight independently-owned toy stores in Houston to check out. Happy shopping!

Run through a lifesize whale, milk a pretend cow, build your own rocket, or learn about carousels at one of these interesting Connecticut museums in the Hartford area. Kids of all ages will love visiting these educational places where they are certain to learn all sorts of new fun facts. Exhibits change, so make sure to check each location's website before trekking out to make sure they have something your little one will enjoy. For loads more museum resources in Connecticut check out our Museum Guide.

Family traditions can be the best part of the holidays, and bringing the kids on a “real” Polar Express is one of the more exciting options in our area. These interactive experiences—there are several of them in the tri-state area—let families relive the magic of the story, while holiday photo opportunities abound. 
 
We recently took a trip on the Catskill Mountain Railroad’s Polar Express in Kingston, which featured an amazing crew committed to delivering an unforgettable experience. We have what you need to know about riding this holiday train, including what to expect on your journey. 

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The holiday season has arrived, and with it is no shortage of festive family-friendly shows. If you've already seen a performance of the Nutcracker this season, or you're just looking for something different, check out this list of other Christmas shows happening in the area. Enjoy the show and have a happy and safe holiday season!

With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to start the daunting task of purchasing everything on your holiday shopping list. Roosevelt Field is one of the best shopping areas on Long Island to get everything you need -- from kids' presents to teachers' gifts to something for your significant other. But all that holiday shopping can definitely work up a hunger. Luckily, there's food aplenty for everyone of all tastes near the mall including pizza, burgers, healthy options, and more. Here are some of our favorites.

We’ve all been there. Your parents are in town, and nothing would please them more than spending a day with their grandkids—but what can you organize to make everybody happy? The kids are all about roller coasters and water slides. For Grandma and Grandpa, nothing can beat a museum exhibit on medieval etchings. And therein lies the problem.

Believe it or not, there is a middle ground. Activities that can please both young and old actually exist, with enough action for the young ones without too much of an overload for Grandma and Grandpa. If you are lucky enough to coordinate such an excursion, your parents will be able to spend some bonding time with the grandkids, and you will reap the ultimate reward: a child-free date for you and your significant other. Or at least a well-deserved nap.

The holiday season is fast upon us, and while there are some ways we can self-pace how we savor the season, one recommendation for advance planning is to purchase tickets for holiday performances. Not only do they often sell out in advance, but claiming choice seats can avoid the familiar whines of “I can’t see …”

Fortunately for Westchester residents, there are various holiday productions to choose from in addition to the The Nutcracker performances in our area. We’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly productions—from traditional concerts to new musical theater—to help you ring in the holiday season. Read on and click through for details. Also be sure to visit our Event Calendar, where you’ll find an ever-growing number of other holiday events we’re curating for your family to enjoy! 

Gift givers throughout the Garden State are hitting the stores in preparation for Holiday Season 2016. You already know about the big box stores in your neighborhood, but what about trying a new spot this year?

New Jersey is home to some terrific independent and family-owned toy stores (and book stores) that offer personalized customer service and a great selection of unique toys, games, and gifts. Check out these independent stores (and their e-commerce sites) for the holiday shopping season, starting on Small Business Saturday, or for those many kid birthday parties you attend all year round.