Kids have boundless energy and idealist hearts, which makes them perfect volunteers. But it can be tricky to find giving opportunities open to the whole family. As any parent who’s tried to vacuum or bake cookies in the presence of a young child knows, little kids really, really want to help out, but making sure their efforts aren't counterproductive requires masterful delegation—or even creation—of tasks they can handle independently. Not surprisingly, many volunteer organizations limit involvement to kids who are in their pre-teens or older. Boston, luckily, is home to several organizations and activities designed with families and young kids in mind. If the community spirit of the marathon and Earth Day has you and your kids feeling inspired, read on for ways to give back.

It's hard to believe a place like this even exists.  The Vintage Radio and Television Museum in Windsor will transport you backwards in time all the way to the 1800's. At this jam-packed museum, you will find yourself reminiscing about the technology of your own youth as well as decades before. Your kids will be amazed by the televisions of the 1950's, the radios of the 1940's, and even the quirky ways we used to call each other on a phone...with a cord. For more fun family museum suggestions check out our Museum Guide. 

While tequila and margaritas may have become staples for Cinco de Mayo parties everywhere, this hasn't always been the case. In fact, May 5 actually has a lot of rich cultural heritage, dating all the way back to 1862 when the Mexican Army proved victorious over the French at the Battle of Puebla. Over the years, the day has become a great source of Mexican pride... and also a good excuse for people to get together and fiesta. 

Whether it's a morning spent exploring the holiday's history at the Children's Museum or diving into a Mexican feast and enjoying live music at one of this year's kid-friendly celebrations, we challenge you to bring back some of that cultural awareness this year... and have some good, old-fashioned family fun in the process. 

Yes, the beaches are beautiful in the Hamptons and North Fork, but sooner or later, your family is going to be looking for something else to do this summer. For a change of pace and a chance for your kids to brush up on their golf and baseball bat swings, or just get out of the sun, we’ve rounded up a list of family-friendly mini golf courses, batting cages and indoor fun like arcades out east.

Most places have snack bars and some offer other amenities such as boat rentals so you can make a whole day of it.

For more fun activities on the east end, be sure to check out our guide to the Hamptons and North Fork and our listing of kayak, canoe, and paddle board rental places. And when your family is ready to hit the beach again, we found the best beaches for families on Long Island. Have fun!

With all of the amazing bakeries in New Jersey, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding a cake for your kid’s birthday bash. But which ones are a cut above? We cake-tested our way across northern New Jersey (somebody had to do it!) to find show-stopping sweets that take the cake!

Whether you want ice cream, gluten-free goodies, or a 3-D replica of your child’s favorite TV show character, there’s something for everyone in this delicious roundup of northern NJ bakeries and bakers. You can find even more party-planning info in our NJ Kids’ Birthday Party Ideas Guide. 

At-home delivery is a total game-changer for busy moms. From school supplies to groceries, if it arrives at the front door with no kid schlepping required, it's a win for parents everywhere, right? But FabFitFun is the subscription box you didn't know you needed on your doorstep (and it's way more exciting than number two pencils and skim milk).

Every three months, FabFitFun drops off a haul of full-size fashion, beauty, fitness, and lifestyle products, like date night-worthy eye shadow palettes, healthy energy-fueling snacks, and travel mugs because... coffee. And since it's so hard for moms to find time to shop, deal hunt, and most importantly, take care of them themselves, this membership is an easy, affordable, and seriously fun way to treat yourself. You're always busy buying thoughtful gifts for just about everyone else, so isn't it about time you put yourself at the top of the list with a one-time membership that'll have you feeling like it's your birthday four more times a year? I think so!

This season's spring box doesn't disappoint, but it looks like it'll sell out fast -- especially since each box always has a value over $200 but only costs $49.99! Watch our unboxing video or read on to see what mom-approved items are in this season's stash, then use the code "POPPINS" to get $10 off your first box at fabfitfun.com.

This month The Light Princess made its stage debut at the Arden Theatre. The musical is adapted from the story written in 1864 by George MacDonald, which itself was loosely based off of Sleeping Beauty. Or perhaps inspired is the correct word as the stories are very much different except that they both involve the life-altering ramifications of a wicked witch's curse. Instead of cursed to sleep, the princess in this story is cursed without gravity—both of the physical and emotional sense. Creative costuming and stage play bring this whimsical story to life, with an original selection of songs and a clever look at what it means to grow up and gain empathy.

While team sports are oft-heralded ways to build character and strengthen cooperation skills, they simply aren’t a great match for every child. Rather than forcing kids to participate in a sport they hate—either because they’re too young or because, well, they simply hate it—it’s usually better to find an activity that won’t make them hide behind you at drop-off.

Fortunately for Westchester children, there are plenty of local opportunities that help kids stay fit, learn something new and have fun! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite sports for those individualist kids. While some may technically include participation on a team, these focus more on setting personal goals than on tallying wins and losses.

Looking for even more enriching ways for kids to spend their time? Consult our Classes Guide and check out our Event Calendar.