I've paid my dues at New York City's playgrounds after a decade of parenting in this city. My family has visited our share of parks and even ranked our favorites, but we're always looking for our next big adventure. With kids ages 3, 7, and 10, it's no easy task to find a playground where all three are entertained, but our recent visit to the newly opened Gertrude Ederle Playground on West 59th Street was an all-around hit.

If your kids are fans of Pixar movies (and who isn't?), if they are into any element of STEAM (as in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), then there's a treat waiting for them at the California Science Center. The Science Behind Pixar takes a never-before-seen look at the artists, engineers, and computer scientists at Pixar, and how they use STEM concepts in the creation of Pixar films. Videos, interactive computer activities, and hands-on physical activities use characters, scenes, and elements from Pixar movies to explain concepts and challenges and explore solutions created by Pixar staff. Lighting Nemo under water, getting Merida's hair to bounce as she runs, putting the gleam on Lightning McQueen—it's all in the hands of our kids.

Which neighborhood is best for Halloween trick-or-treating in Connecticut? That's a tricky one! But we can certainly point you in some fun directions full of treats! Here's a list of our favorite trick-or-treating spots and weekend events so you'll know where to bring your kids this Halloween. Whether you are looking for a quaint Norman Rockwell experience or a ghoulish night, we have some options for you. If your area is not conducive to trick or treating, your kids still can enjoy a fun trick-or-treat experience at some of these trunk or treating events that begin the week prior to Halloween. Please feel free to add your favorite spots in the comments section below. For more seasonal fun, check out our jam-packed Halloween Guide. Many stores in local towns and villages will likely will be handing out candy in the afternoon on October 31, but as a general rule trick-or-treating starts at dusk.

If you are looking for a fresh cut pine tree Christmas outing that the kids won't forget, one of the following farms in Litchfield County is sure to fit the bill. Most of these farms have been run by the same families for generations and include perks such as a free cup of hot cocoa, a holiday decorations store and maybe even a tractor ride. Some may or may not take credit cards so be sure to have cash on hand. Weekenders will be thrilled with the low prices, typically $45 per tree. Check out these posts for Tree Farms in Hartford and Fairfield Counties also.

It might not feel like it now, but winter is on its way – and that means that you and the kids will soon be spending lots of time inside. The good news? You don't necessarily need to stay home. Battle boredom and fight off cabin fever with a visit to one of these 11 indoor hot spots in Essex County. To find even more indoor fun throughout New Jersey, check out our comprehensive guide to indoor playgrounds, kid gyms, sports centers, and fun zones.

Trick-or-treating is an annual custom that many families enjoy every Halloween. However, not every child or grown-up is all about roaming the streets for the sole purpose of getting candy from their neighbors (or strangers)! When October 31 rolls around, be sure to check out all the great trick-or-treat alternatives in the Philadelphia area—whether they take a hayride, play in a pumpkin patch, or pick up some tasty tidbits from the local mall, little ones will still get to dress up and have fun on Halloween, without the traditional door-to-door candy gathering. Plus, don’t forget to check our Event Calendar regularly—new activities are added daily.

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia would love to see some cute costumes! Follow us on Instagram, post a photo or two, and tag us @MommyPoppinsPHL so we can marvel at the adorable kiddos in and around the area.  

Brooklyn kids have a new place to climb, crawl, and create, but parents will also like Tot Town for the features geared toward them. With touches like cozy couches, free Wi-Fi, and outlets for laptops and phones, parents can relax while toddlers and preschoolers play games, make music, create art, and more. We've got the scoop on Crown Heights' newest play space. 

Nestled within the Cradle of Aviation is one of my favorite interactive open play areas: The Junior Jet Club.

At only $2.50 per child (free with museum admission), it is one of the most inexpensive (and fun!) ways to spend a few hours with children under 6 years old.

The Junior Jet Club is located within an expansive facility that also houses a planetarium and museum. Upon entrance, children will be in awe of the U.S. Navy Fighter Jet that hangs from the rafters. They will also want to run circles around the lobby exhibit.