As the national editor for Mommy Poppins, a lot of kids' stuff comes across my desk (well, kitchen table). I mean, a lot. And some of it is pretty ridiculous (like high heels for babies and diaper-changing gloves—really?). But one of the perks of the job is watching events and activities pile up in my inbox that I just can’t wait to do, see, and experience with my kids. Because that sense of discovery—of finding something that leads to new interests and passions for my kids—that’s what parenting is all about. And if I discover something that makes my life a little easier along the way...all the better!

Check out the stuff I’m super excited about in September 2021, and discover a few things that will make this month of back-to-school and pumpkin spice lattes even more fun for families.

The Long Island Aquarium has opened a massive treehouse-like outdoor exhibit overlooking the bucolic Peconic River. The Eye Opener stands 60 feet tall and has five levels for visitors to explore. With a new seal pup and penguin chick, added animal encounters and more, Long Island's only aquarium is seeking to engage new and returning guests with innovative and engaging exhibits and activities.

Check our articles on petting zoos and nature centers for more local animal fun.

Atlanta dance classes are great places for kids to let loose, train with skilled teachers, and make friends. From adult-child classes, where parents can dance in class with their children, to advanced dance classes, where children can perfect their form, Atlanta dance classes run the gamut of interests and skills. If your child isn't sure which type of dance he or she wants to try, don't worry —many Atlanta dance studios offer a variety of classes, including ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, acro, and more so children have the option to try multiple genres and see which are their favorites. 

Whether you are 2 or 102, everyone loves a trip to the zoo! Kids never forget the experience of standing eye-to-eye with a giant giraffe or watching a mama gorilla scale a tree with her baby in tow. Experiences like this, and many more, can be had at amazing zoos across the US—perhaps even at a zoo near you. We’ve run down the very best places to feed a flamingo, pet a wallaby, and clap along with sea lions in all 50 states (plus DC).

With award-winning exhibits and extras—like rides, slides, ropes courses, and even entire water parks—these zoos could easily be the highlight of a great family vacation, so check our Family Travel Guide to get a jump on planning. And don’t forget to see if one of the Best Children’s Museums in the country is near the zoo you plan to visit!

Whether your child experiments with toy instruments or just hums favorite tunes in the back seat of the car, chances are music classes might be something they enjoy. Kids can enjoy music classes near Boston and far beyond, thanks to a large pool of well-trained musicians that live in the region. For parents looking for ways to inspire their kids to express musical creativity, develop vocal skills, or play piano, violin, guitar, ukulele, or other musical instruments, the choices for music classes and instruction appear endless. While we could never cover every one of these programs in one post, we've rounded up some of our favorites piano lessons, music classes, and more in and around Boston.

Explore other types of enrichment programs, including sports, art, and more, in our Boston Classes Guide.

Whether your families cheer for the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, Blackhawks, Fire, or all of the above, you know that Chicago is a sports town, and your kids have probably asked to sign up for a sports class that will help them emulate their favorite team.  Sports classes for kids in Chicago are easy to find for all ages and in all areas of the city and suburbs.

When your summer adventures take you toward the Jersey Shore, make sure to save some time during your journey for these special sweet treats and quick eats. Whether you're in the mood for out-of-this-world soft-serve or craving a fully loaded hot dog, we've rounded up 20 local restaurants in South Jersey and along the Jersey Shore that are ready to fulfill your craving. Find more eats and treats in our Guide to Family-Friendly Restaurants in New Jersey.

Getting kids out the door and off to school should probably qualify as an Olympic sport, requiring all the patience and planning we parents can summon to make things run smoothly. A good kids' alarm clock can provide much-needed support by helping to establish consistent routines throughout the year, freeing parents up to focus on packing bookbags, making lunches, or whatever other tasks we face before the bus arrives.

For more back-to-school tips, from perfect backpacks for every age to school lunch ideas kids will actually eat, check out our Back-to-School Guide.