Sensory gyms are a great resource for children with special needs or a developmental delay or concern. The specialized play equipment entertains as it provides treatment, and it's often a supportive environment for families, too. While there are many activities parents and children can do at home, a sensory gym offers equipment not usually available in a New York City apartment. Some facilities even offer time with trained therapists. 

Queens doesn't have as many sensory gyms as Manhattan or Brooklyn, so it can be difficult to find quality classes or even an indoor play space where kids can play safely with other youngsters. It does, however, have a growing number of well-equipped gyms run by experienced therapists; we rounded up six for you below.

Because a public library’s mission is to serve the varying interests of its community, it’s fitting that many offer bilingual programming for children, especially in towns with diverse communities. Bilingual programming for Westchester families, however, is often attended not only by native speakers but also by those wishing to expose their children to a second language from an early age. One local mom we know strategically hired a Spanish-speaking nanny for her toddler and brought him to Spanish story time to increase this exposure.

Beyond the 30 to 60 minutes of weekly immersion, these programs can also provide a cultural hub—an opportunity for families to connect with others from their heritage and socialize both within and outside of the library setting. And since most are intended for young learners accompanied by a caregiver, you're sure to pick up some new phrases yourself!

We’ve explored the bilingual programs offered by Westchester libraries to round up some highlights. Though Spanish-language programs are the most abundant, a variety of languages are in focus—and one in particular offers a smattering of more than 20 languages, from Dutch to Urdu and Ashanti! One note: Although we confirmed with the libraries that these are ongoing programs, be sure to check before you go because dates can change.

A trip to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, offers a surprising number of family activities, from farm visits and more country fun to train rides and cool museums. My family, including two little ones, recently tried to squeeze as much of the area's top attractions into a day trip as we could, and we're already planning a return trip to see more.

Whether you love that rural vibe or are just looking for an alternative to the standard beach-type of family weekend getaway, I can assure you that Pennsylvania Dutch Country and Amish Country make for a sweet destination with kids in tow. It's not just fields, pastures, and cows!

Read on for the top family sights, including The Science Factory, Strasburg Railroad, Dutch Wonderland, and even a train-themed hotel. 

Looking for more family getaways? Check out our travel guide with real parent reviews of resorts and destinations. Find more Pennsylvania family fun with our Poconos Guide.

With the U.S. Open on Long Island in June 2018, maybe you think you have a little tour pro on your hands. Or maybe you just want to introduce your son or daughter to golf minus the windmills.

There are five par-3 golf courses on Long Island that offer young players a chance to experience the game with more than just a putter. For less than $20 per round on average, beginners can manage their way around with a light bag, a few balls, tees, and plenty of enthusiasm.

More experienced players will enjoy the opportunity to enhance their short-game precision. Either way, it’s a great opportunity for parent-child bonding over one of Long Island’s signature activities.

So tee it high and let it fly. All five of these courses are in Suffolk County; a few short-length courses exist in Nassau, but some of their par-4 holes might be unreachable for young players. Note: Most par-3 courses require adult supervision of pre-teen players. All players should practice on-course etiquette, including allowing faster groups to play through.

A Day Out With Thomas the Tank Engine at the Essex Museum is a right of passage in many homes. There is nothing like seeing the face of your toddler light up when he sees that familiar bright blue train from Sodor. When the voice and train your child has become so familiar with is all of a sudden sitting on a track in front of you, it's pretty mind blowing! Thomas will be in Essex for two more weekends before chugging along (April 29-30 and May 6-7, 2017).

Step aside spring blooms. There's a new diva hijacking your spotlight this season at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx. It's sparkly, magical, and comes in almost as many eye-popping shades as your petals.

The just-opened CHIHULY outdoor art installation features more than 20 glimmering pieces by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. It spans more than 40 years of his career. Special tours, events and programming are planned around the exhibit, which opened Friday, April 22.

Read on for our review of the latest exhibit at the beloved NYC garden, including whether or not you can bring your kid, or even a toddler, without fear of them crashing and smashing their way through the show. 

Everybody knows that nursing your baby is a special experience that not only nourishes your baby’s body but also strengthens the mother-child bond. But when you're out and about, it can tricky to find a clean, comfortable, and effective place to breastfeed—particularly if you have a curious infant who reacts to noise and light—not to mention pump milk if you're separated. As we enter the heart of spring and start planning fun outings to museums, ballparks, and other popular places around town, we're scoping out cushy spots where you can escape the elements, crowded seating, and leering eyes to take care of your baby's needs in peace. (Note that Massachusetts state law permits women to breastfeed openly in any public space or establishment, and imposes a $500 fine for harassing a nursing mom.)

Nothing says spring in the suburbs like a team of rubber ducks bobbing and bumping down a river. The annual YMCA Healthy Kids Day and Rotary Duck Derby, a four-hour affair at Sleepy Hollow’s Patriot Park, is a family favorite of ours. The event typically draws more than 1,500 people, all of whom come to enjoy the live music, vendors, crafts, entertainment and, of course, hordes of rubber ducks. 

This year’s event will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2017, 11am - 3pm, and we have what you need to know. Looking for more spring family fun? Check out our Event Calendar and follow us on Facebook.