Of all of the exciting activities for kids in Houston, spending time at a shopping mall doesn't typically rank high on the list. Unless that is you happen to be heading to Memorial City Mall to visit the American Girl Store. Just walking up to the entrance to the store creates an Instagram-worthy situation as you and your child approach the iconic red facade. If you were a fan of the dolls as a kid, the nostalgia of American Girl will hit you square between the eyes as you enter the store. Of course, shopping is on the agenda, but there are so many other activities to engage in when you visit the American Girl store. 

When it comes to kids, stomach aches are two things: common and complicated. Sure, sometimes that second cupcake at the birthday party or the twisty turvy drive to Grandma's house is enough to turn a kiddo's belly, but other times an undiagnosed digestive disorder is to blame—and it may be getting written off as "just a tummy ache." So, when a pediatric specialist at Connecticut Children’s offered to give us the lowdown on stomach ache causes that may actually be more serious, the worried mom in me was all ears. And if you're no stranger to the infamous cry of "my belly hurts," you'll definitely want to read on to see if it's time to schedule an appointment.

Don't let bathtime be a battle! Easier said than done, right? Try these colorful bath toys to soothe cranky kids or entertain those fearful of the dreaded water and soap in the eyes.

Bath toys are sometimes the difference between a disaster of a nighttime routine and a chill one in my home, which includes three little kids. Picking the right bath toys, or a brand-new one, has always worked to distract my kiddos, so check out these 11 tried-and-true bath toys for toddlers, big kid bubbles, and even sweet baby bath toys, such as color-changing bath books.

Chinese New Year in Disneyland? Well, it is the Year of Mouse, after all. And while most angelenos know about DTLA's famous Chinese New Year Festival and its accompanying 120+ year-old Golden Dragon Parade, not everyone realizes that there are also ways to celebrate the season at our favorite theme parks. So if you like your lion dance with a side of roller coaster, you've got options.

My kids love to get free stuff, and to be honest, I get pretty excited about it too. Here are some of our favorite birthday clubs for kids, with great freebies like ice cream, burgers, and gift cards.  I’ve chosen birthday clubs that offer free stuff to kids (and often to their parents), plus some that give you BOGO or free with purchase deals for your child’s birthday. 

Even when it's not your child's birthday, kids can visit these museums at no charge and eat free at these area restaurants. See more no-cost activity ideas in our Free Fun Guide for Boston Kids!

If you're looking for a first museum experience for your kids, the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers is one of the best local options. It's not huge or overwhelming, but it offers plenty to do to keep kids engaged and learning. 

The largest cultural institution in Westchester County, the Hudson River Museum includes galleries, a planetarium, amphitheater, historic mansion, picturesque outdoor space, and plenty of family-friendly events and activities. My dad and I took my 5-year-old and 2.5-year-old for a visit on a recent Saturday afternoon, and it was a perfect outing. 

A trip to Tel Aviv delivers crystal clear beaches, mindblowing museums, history and modernism meeting on every corner—and some of the best food you’ll ever have. All of it makes Tel Aviv the ultimate blend of beach lounging, historical sightseeing, and urban exploring.

The Israeli city is kid-friendly to boot! My husband is Israeli, so although we live in New York, my family rents an apartment in Tel Aviv for a few weeks every year. Kids are welcome anywhere adults are and public playgrounds are ubiquitous. Just about everyone speaks English, the weather is phenomenal, and the area is super walkable, meaning touring Tel Aviv is easy even with kiddos.  

I might be a bit biased when it comes to this beautiful city, but there are plenty of fun things to do in Tel Aviv, so I think it makes a great vacation spot for families. Find more fun cities to visit in our Family Travel Guide, including Stockholm or unique trips, such as exploring Iceland.