Going to sleepaway camp is a rite of passage for many kids in Boston, Connecticut, and the rest of New England. But the idea of being away from home for more than a few weeks can be a deal breaker for many kids, especially if they're on the younger side or tend to have separation anxiety. Luckily, many overnight camps offer one- or two-week (or even shorter) sessions that are specially designed to introduce children to the independence and kid bonding of sleepaway without forcing them to "stick it out" for longer than they may be ready to handle.

Established on shorelines and lakefronts across six states, we've rounded up popular overnight summer camps with first-timer-focused starter sessions for children 6 to 12 years old. The only catch may be if you're not sure you can part with your kiddo for more than a night. (Trust me—you can!)

Look to our complete camp directory for more ideas on summer enrichment for kids in Boston and Connecticut.

When her baby was just three weeks old, Rachel Beckerman's maternity leave was up, and she returned to work part-time. Her husband had already returned to his full-time job. Sleep-deprived and juggling two demanding careers while caring for a newborn, the Manhattan couple was desperate for help. "We needed to be able to function in our jobs during the day," Beckerman said. "We needed someone to help with night feedings. And as first-time parents, we also needed help learning some of the baby basics."

Enter the baby night nurse or nighttime nanny. 

Learning a second (or third) language can be hugely beneficial to kids. Research has shown that language learning can not only improve memory and problem-solving skills, but can also help with multitasking and improve academic performance. Not to mention that being able to communicate in multiple languages will help kids navigate our increasingly diverse communities, workplaces, and schools.

If you have less than fond memories of sitting through high school Spanish or French classes, don't fret. There are a number of schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties that offer classes—including mommy/daddy-and-me—to expose your child to a new world of words and phrases in a fun learning environment. It's easier for babies and young children to master another language than it is for teens and adults. Learning with your child can be a bonding experience and something that you can share for years to come.

Depending on the school, classes are offered in levels from beginners to advanced. Prices for classes vary by school; contact each directly for costs.

And be sure to look at our classes and enrichment guide for more ways to learn what your kids might enjoy. 

If you're searching for engaging baby and toddler classes in Queens, the diverse and ever-changing NYC borough offers plenty of parent-and-me options for the littlest ones, including music, art, movement, sports, and even science. 

We've rounded up 13 of the most popular and unique baby and toddler classes in Queens, including an outdoor nature program and an infant movement session. If you call Queens home, check out these classes to find one that works for you (or your caretaker) and your child. Don't forget to check out our round-up of drop-in play spaces in this family-friendly borough.

Need more inspiration? Check out our NYC Baby Guide or directory of classes across NYC.

Summer may be months away, but Long Island summer camps are beginning to hold open houses, and enrollment will soon fill up. There's no better time to start dreaming and planning for the warmer weather than now.

From athletes to performing artists and even preschoolers, there is a program premiering this summer for kids of just about every interest. Whether you've got a first-time camper or a seasoned pro looking for something new, we've rounded up the 2020 summer camp season's latest additions.

Are you looking for more info on Long Island camps? Check our lists of the best camps in Nassau and Suffolk counties, or you can always find more camps for kids in our Camps Guide and full Camp Directory.

Could your family use an escape from the New England chill? A warm, green space is closer than you may think. Several fabulous indoor gardens around Boston keep their greenhouse and atrium doors open throughout the winter. With controlled balmy temperatures—be sure to bring a bag for stashing ski jackets!—these sunlit spaces feature exotic plants and animals as well as plenty of space for children for roam, discover, and daydream.

For more ideas for keeping kids busy on the coldest or wettest days, check out our Boston indoor fun guide.

Looking for fresh ideas to break from the birthday party monotony? We’ve scoured Westchester County to bring you 11 new birthday party venues where you can celebrate in 2020. From art studios to play cafes, martial arts studios to a marine education center, these spots promise lots of fun for your child's next fete.

Because there’s such a demand for birthday resources, we’ve kept tabs on assorted party venues and in-house party entertainers for Westchester families to simplify your research. Plus, we recently rounded up 20 Birthday Party Places for Westchester Toddlers and Preschoolers.

Read on for Westchester's 11 newest birthday party venues, and if you haven't done so already, sign up for our newsletters to stay in the know!