Here at Mommy Poppins we’re big supporters of kids learning to code; we've written posts about free websites and apps that can help children hone the design, logic and problem-solving skills they need for coding. If you’re the parent of a tween or teen, chances are pretty good that Minecraft is part of life at your home. This summer, kids ages 9 to 13 can combine their love of the game with learning the basics of coding at "Summer of Minecraft" camp.

Our sponsor, Connected Camps, is partnering with Institute of Play, a nonprofit organization, in offering this low-cost, four-week online camp. Kids can be taught everything from the basics of building to coding in-game in a safe, multiplayer environment—all from the comfort of their own home. If this sounds interesting, be sure to read on for an exclusive offer for Mommy Poppins readers, as well as the chance to win one free spot at the camp.

At ages 9 and 7, my kids are a little curious about sleepaway camp—make that very curious. They've heard their friends talk about cabins and color wars and late-night raids of the camp kitchen, and they're ready to sign on the dotted line. But me? I'm a little nervous—okay fine, very nervous. As a result, I've been researching summer day camps that include a sleepover or two so they can get a taste of sleeping away from home. Luckily, there are quite a few summer programs that offer that option in Fairfield County.

Sometimes it feels like Morningside Heights has about as many restaurants as it does college students, which is to say, a lot. Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue overflow with cozy cafes and raucous bars, and during the warmer months, sidewalk-dining options are plentiful. If you find yourself in this neck of the woods enjoying all the cool things there are to do with kids, we've got a roundup of the top 12 family-friendly restaurants where you can grab a bite with the brood.

We know that transportation is often a highly ranked amenity when scouting out summer camps. That's why last week, we rounded up programs throughout Westchester County that offer busing. This week we're turning our attention to the many summer camps throughout Lower Hudson Valley that offer this same convenient service.

Read on for camps in the area that provide transportation, whether it’s door-to-door or from a central location. Looking for more camp ideas? Be sure to check out our Summer Camp Guide and Camp Directory.

When my husband and I decided to start a family, there was only one place we knew we wanted to raise our kids: Long Island. From top-rated schools and doctors, to kid-friendly museums and beautiful beaches, everything you need (and want) is right here. Whatever the season, there are a ton of things to do with the kids, and many of these activities are fun for mom and dad, too. And when you want to experience big city life, the Big Apple is a short train ride away.

Need more proof? We've come up with a list of 25 reasons Long Island is a great place for kids and families. To stay on top of what's happening in the area every day, be sure to check out our Event Calendar.

Walk off last week's no-cost desserts at The Arboretum or Descanso Gardens, both of which have free days this Tuesday. A nature promenade is also a good way to celebrate Earth Day on Wednesday, April 22.

Pottery Barn Kids has a craft and story, and Disney’s latest nature film, Monkey Kingdom, screens all week at the El Capitan. The theater itself is magnificent, and the Wildlife Learning Center brings live exotic animals for the pre-show. Teens will also want to hit El Capitan this week for the Ultimate Marvel Marathon, though tickets are steep and it is a school night. On Wednesday, when we wish our planet (and my husband) a happy birthday, why not give pause to our local concern and review ways to reduce water usage during the drought?

It’s Earth Day this week and the Garden State is overflowing with events that celebrate nature and our planet. Spend quality time in the great outdoors at the Hunterdon County Earth Day Celebration, go on Hiking Adventures in Holmdel Park or learn all about Squirmy Wormies. Kids can honor the Earth indoors as well at a performance of Egg and Spoon and Holmdel Library’s Earth Day Story & Craft. Don’t forget to check out our Event Calendar for even more options.

Celebrating our planet takes center stage this week, with a variety of Earth Day events taking place across Long Island. There's also a storytime and sing-along for smaller children, and the entire family can end the week at a Kid's Fest in Merrick featuring rides, games, treats and more.

Remember, this list is just our top picks, so be sure to check our jam-packed Event Calendar for more options. To receive posts like this in your inbox, sign up for our free newsletters.