New AMNH Exhibit Reveals The Secret Life of Elephants

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Get up close to a life-sized African Elephant model at the AMNH's new Secret World of Elephant exhibit. Photo by Alvaro Keding/AMNH

Step into The Secret World of Elephants courtesy of a brand-new exhibit now open at the American Museum of Natural History.

The sprawling exhibition dedicated to the world's largest land mammal is filled with life-sized models—some surprisingly pint-sized—interactive displays, and touchpoints aimed at teaching the public about these incredible animals and their evolutionary relatives.

Read on for a sneak peek at this exhibition and find more fun museum exhibits to explore with kids in our NYC Kids Guide to Museums and Galleries.

Sewing for Kids: Best Kids' Sewing Machines and Sewing Kits

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The Janome Blue Couture Easy-to-Use Sewing Machine is a great first sewing machine for kids.

Looking for the best sewing machine for kids? How about kid-friendly sewing kits? There are lots of great options to choose from!

Sewing is both a fun and Earth-friendly skill for crafty kids of all ages to learn. Sewing allows kids to work on fine motor skills and flex their creative muscles. Plus, being able to patch a pair of pants or replace a button helps keep clothing out of landfills—especially when kids are older and not outgrowing items faster than they can wear them.

There are so many beginner-friendly sewing machines that it's hard to pick the very best sewing machine for kids. We've rounded up four great options, plus some awesome sewing kits for children. We've also shared some beginner sewing projects and tutorials to help your kids become expert stitchers.

Check out our Earth Kids Guide for more planet-friendly activities and habits for kids, from cardboard box crafts to eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas. And, sign up for our Earth Kids newsletter for more ideas and activities every month.

17 Things To Do in Garden City, New York with Kids

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Garden City's quaint downtown makes for a great stroll with kids. Photo courtesy of the Village of Garden City

Garden City is one of Long Island's most desirable communities, with tree-lined streets, a vibrant downtown, highly-rated schools, and plenty of green space. Take a stroll down historic Seventh Street, which plays host to family-friendly events all year round; spend the day learning on Museum Row; or shop till you drop at the area’s largest shopping mall, Roosevelt Field.

It’s no wonder so many families enjoy living and visiting this village. We've rounded up the top things to do on a visit to Garden City with kids. 

Be sure to check out our posts on the best parks in Nassau County for kids and the best indoor play spaces in Nassau County for more great activity ideas in the area. 

Breakfast with Santa in Boston: Christmas Breakfasts and Brunches with Santa

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Kids share their Christmas wishes, while parents grab more coffee, at breakfast with Santa in Boston! Breakfast with Santa at The VERVE Hotel, photo courtesy of the hotel

A breakfast with Santa in Boston is sure to make this Christmas special! One of kids's favorite holiday experiences is meeting Santa and telling him their Christmas wishes. Make the tradition even better with a breakfast or brunch with the big guy in red. At these events, you’ll get to enjoy a delicious holiday meal, spend some extra time with Mr. or Mrs. Claus, and participate in other seasonal activities. Bring your camera to capture all of the festive fun, and make your reservation early—spots at some of these events go quick!

For more special opportunities for kids to meet Santa, see our picks for Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides. 

Breakfast with Santa in Chicago

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Breakfast with Santa at Drury Lane

Santa breakfasts in Chicago offer more than just pancakes —you usually get a Santa picture and a visit as well. We have a list of breakfasts with Santa in Chicago, as well as brunches and other activities at a variety of venues, like Drury Lane Theater, Pinstripes Brunch with Santa, and even a Galactic Santa Breakfast at Camp Big Timber Ridge.

Most of these activities will offer photo ops, but you can also snag a picture with Santa at one of these events. We have ensured that as of publication time, all of these events have seats available, and we've tried to list events with more than just a handful of spots left. But register fast! These won't be around forever.

Best Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows in Miami & South Florida

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Line up along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk and watch lighted floats and vehicles entertain families during the Candy Cane Parade. Photo courtesy of City of Hollywood Florida Government

During the winter months, there is a timeless joy in piling into the family car to enjoy Christmas light shows and holiday lights drive-thrus. We've rounded up the best of South Florida's Christmas lights, drive-thru light shows, boat parades, and legendary holiday light displays. From the annual holiday tradition at Zoo Lights Miami to boat parades like the Holiday Boat Parade in Boynton Beach, we can help point your family car toward the brightest, most sparkling Christmas lights displays in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach!

Christmas Tree Farms Near Atlanta for Family Fun

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Pick your tree then enjoy the festive atmosphere at Yule Forest, with a mug of hot apple cider. Photo by Bethany Paquette

Most Atlanta Christmas tree farms offer an unforgettable experience for families, with helpful staff who aid in cutting, prepping, and hauling Christmas trees. Besides finding the perfect spruce, fir, or pine, many of these Christmas tree farms offer even more holiday highlights, like hot chocolate, a glimpse of Santa, and more! The holiday atmosphere is not to be missed: A visit to a live Christmas tree farm offers the perfect photo opportunity for your newfound or recurring family holiday tradition.     

We've rounded up awesome Christmas tree farms near Atlanta perfect for families! Make a day of it and venture out to a festive Christmas tree farm to find the perfect holiday tree. And for even more holiday happenings, keep checking our Atlanta Christmas and Holiday Guide for up-to-date info about the best events and ideas this holiday season.  

Breakfast with Santa and Other Holiday Character Meals Near Orlando

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Join Elmo and other furry friends for a fun-filled holiday breakfast at SeaWorld Orlando. Photo courtesy of SeaWorld

Santa is making his list and checking it twice, and he’s added some Santa breakfast stops in Orlando this holiday season. Join the jolly ol’ elf himself for a breakfast with Santa (or dinner...or tea time!) in Orlando. At these Santa breakfast events, guests will enjoy delicious foods, and kids can share their wish lists with Santa and snap some photos with the big guy as well.

Read on for a collection of local Santa breakfast events around Central Florida. We've also included holiday character dining options at the theme parks, including seasonal meals with the Grinch, Minnie Mouse, and Elmo! 

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