Unfortunately FAO Schwarz closed in July 2015; we're looking into whether the make-your-own-toy experiences located there will move elsewhere. Shopping for toys is fun, but creating your own customized plaything is a much cooler and memorable experience. While NYC is filled with craft spots where kids can walk away with cute, homemade creations, there are only two places in town where children can drop in and make their own high-quality toys that look like they were just plucked from the retail shelf: FAO Schwarz and the Build-A-Bear Workshop. At these two megastores, kids can design their own dolls, cars, stuffed animals and more, usually not for much more than these items would cost anyway.

These make-your-own-toy experiences can also be turned into over-the-top birthday parties. Not only do the kids have a blast designing their own playthings, they go home with a party favor they'll truly treasure instead of those awful plastic-filled goody bags that always end up in the landfill.

Considering a camping trip, but the thought of sitting in the car for hours has you hesitating? Ditch the "are we there yet?" moans and groans and camp out right here on Long Island! There are plenty of campgrounds nearby that offer sweeping views, boast family-friendly features and get your up close and personal with nature. Here is our list of five more campgrounds on Long Island. Check out the first five campsites we've already featured.

Much like telephones and VW Beetles, birthday parties look a whole lot different than they used to. Here in LA, I've seen kids' parties that looked like they had wedding planners, guest lists that go higher than the child can count, and party favors with bigger price tags than the gifts. I've also seen parents say, "Oh, stuff it," and run away to Disneyland. Whether you're on the birthday party fast lane or have no qualms about keeping it sweet and simple, a few tips from party experts can only make things better, so we asked some party professionals to share their insider tips.

It’s time to give mom a break from the cooking, cleaning and planning this weekend! Take your pick from one of these awesome events in Jersey and round up the troops for a day of quality family time. No matter what mom is in the mood for, there’s definitely something to fit the bill: Take in a performance from the famed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, sip wine at a complimentary tasting (and let the kids explore the farm) during the Mother’s Day Wine Trail Weekend at Terhune Orchards or stroll through the beautiful lilac meadows and have a picnic at Willowwood Arboretum, or find a full list of weekend activities on our Event Calendar.

Why not make Mother’s Day a whole weekend celebration? Take a break from your routine and bring the kids along for one of these three day trips that that are good for little ones, but are really for Mom – because you totally deserve it! Or, if your weekend is already planned with fun family activities and splurge-worthy Mother's Day culinary outings, visit anytime for a mini getaway that feels worlds away. 

Over the years, I’ve planned and hosted more birthday parties than any sane person should, and have developed a few convictions along the way, such as “Goody bags are my nemesis” and “a good party planner is a gift dropped down from Heaven.” Since it doesn’t look like kids are going to stop having birthdays any time soon, a few tips from the party experts sure can help. Below find seven great tips from some of our fave NJ party planners and venues.

Did you know The Garden State currently ranks NUMBER ONE in the U.S. for most bike-friendly college campuses and businesses?*  New Jersey is also ranked Number 12 for on the list of bike-friendliest states. There’s some Jersey pride for you! May is Bike Month, so let’s all celebrate the power of the speedy, earth-friendly two-wheeler. Below is a list of New Jersey bike events, so grab your helmet, screw on those steering wheels—if your kiddies need them—and enjoy a classic American pastime…riding a bike. And hey, if a bike was good enough transport for Mary Poppins…it’s just as fab for MOMMY Poppins, right?

While a beautiful bouquet of flowers is always appreciated on Mother's Day, why not give mom a chance to enjoy one of the most beautiful gardens in the area? During Mother's Day weekend, the New York Botanical Garden is holding a special garden party with a vintage twist. There will be plenty of activities for mom—and the entire family—to enjoy.