We couldn’t be happier that you visit Mommy Poppins to learn about the best kid-friendly events and happenings in the area, but we know we’re not the only game in town. There are many other talented bloggers in our area, and we wanted to share some of our favorite sites. These recommendations are written by parents in Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley, and all of them offer valuable information or are just flat-out fun to read.

Think we missed a good one? Leave it your suggestion in the comments or drop a line on Facebook! 

Christmas may be over, but in my house paying for it is not. My family is going to focus on free things to do this week, like drawing in El Segundo or playing at the mall in Century City. The second Tuesday of the month is always free admission at The Autry in Griffith Park. I love this museum because it covers both the myth and reality of Western expansion and never forgets the important role of movies. Currently, costumes from The Hateful Eight are on display.

The Fairfax Branch Library has storytime on Wednesday; why not spend the day at Third and Fairfax? If it doesn’t rain, let the kids run at Pan Pacific Park, followed by something I loved to do as a child and still enjoy with my own kids: perusing the Original Farmer’s Market. While you're there, a free ride on the trolley at the Grove is a treat, too.

One thing worth paying for is the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium’s drop-off class, Microbiologists: Underwater Parks. Two hours for mom to get some exercise on the beach or run to the grocery store, while the kids become educated about our environment and marine science—what's not to love? If this one is already filled, sign up now for the next one on January 25.

Since Mother Nature has been kind to us so far this winter, both outdoor and indoor adventures await this week. Bundle up and explore nature at Awesome Animal Artists and Toddler Trek: Frigid Flyers. Or play it safe with great indoor museum events, including MAM Park Bench and Uptown Story Time. And don’t forget to check out our Event Calendar for even more options!

This week, kids can play old school video games at The Arcade Age, check out a pirate-themed show or learn about a variety of animals--and that's just a few of the fun things happening this week. For more, check out our Long Island events calendar. You can also get the best events of the week sent directly to your inbox each week if you sign up for our newsletter.

An eclectic assortment of fun awaits Westchester families this week, with offerings for all tastes!

Get Silly with Science or give your kids a rigorous Math Workout. Think you’ve outgrown playing with clay? Think again at Electric Playdough.

These are just a flavor of what’s in store, so read on for more and continue to our Event Calendar for riveting programs every day of the week. Planning ahead? Our January GoList offers highlights for the remainder of the month!

For those parents whose wallets are screaming for mercy after last month's holiday spending, our highlights for this week are all FREE to attend! A few top picks below include a live concert with PBS stars and preschooler favorites Monkey Monkey Music, more music from kindie mainstays Presley and Melody and a comedy writing class with the Story Pirates for the older kids. More free fun can be found during various free or pay-what-you-wish hours at NYC museums, zoos and gardens and these 20 indoor spots.

Pre-planners take notice: School is closed, Monday, January 18 for Martin Luther King, Jr., Day (and Lunar New Year isn't far behind). Our post on NYC mini-camps can help you find an enriching experience. Plus, mark your calendars now, preschool fave from across the pond, Peppa Pig, will be in NYC this spring!

As always, more family activities can be found in our Event Calendar.

If you are looking for some fun events to take the kids to this week we've got you covered.  Spend hours checking out the 500 Star Wars mini-figs at the Lego Exhibit. Disney On Ice and Cinderella are both in town and you can even take the kids to learn how to ice fish! For more fun things to do, check out our frequently updated Event Calendar for all sorts of fun. 

Before we know it, another school year will end, and children and parents alike will seek activities to fill their summer days. The Hartford area is home to many attractions, playgrounds, and museums, but sometimes, none of those will quench a child’s thirst like a gallop on a horse. Yes, a horse! Fortunately, just like in Fairfield County, there are plenty of Hartford County farms and stables that cater specifically to young riders, offering lessons for all skill levels and also summer riding camps.