My kids are gamers. I'll admit it, they cherish every second they can get on their Xbox, computer or iPad. Like most moms, I try to limit their screen time, but I've also come to realize that gaming is a big part of how they socialize with their friends. Recent studies have even shown that moderate gaming leads to improved performance in perception, attention and cognition. During these cold winter months, it's nice to find an indoor space where my kids and their friends can get together and play (that isn't my house). We've put together a list of New Jersey gaming lounges where kids can gather to mine, race and battle. For more great opportunities for gamers and tech savvy kids, check out our post on STEM classes in New Jersey, where your kids can learn to program and design their own games.

There truly are hundreds of things to do in the L.A. Basin, and many of our neighborhoods have at least 25 reasons to visit. Studio City, named for the business that makes our locale a world renowned destination, is one of those places. This particular section of the San Fernando Valley, still technically part of the City of Los Angeles, was created by the Central Motion Picture District in 1927 - and has a lot more kid entertainment than you might think. 

When you have little kids, it can be hard to know what the next few days are going to be like, not to mention the next few weeks. So if you are looking to spend some special time with your little one, but aren't looking to sign-up for a regularly-scheduled Mommy and Me class, you're in luck. There are a few drop-in Mommy and Me classes available across Long Island. And for other enrichment programs in our area, be sure to take a look at our Long Island Classes Guide.

Now that January is coming to a close, are you still feeling the post-holiday strain on your budget? Luckily, most of this week’s activity picks are free! Don’t miss the free fun at library programs, including Family Fun Night in Berkeley Heights, Fit4Kids puppet show in Chatham and Girls Who Code in Newark. Explore other free activities at Barnes and Noble and Thompson Park Creative Arts Center. Plus, enjoy low-budget active time at All About Fun and Fort Monmouth Recreation Center. And don’t forget to check out our event calendar for even more weekday and weekend events.

There are plenty of indoor activities to keep you and your kids warm during the winter months. This week alone, you can learn about the ocean, practice healthy cooking skills, find out how your child's eating habits are affecting him at school, and enjoy the ballet that inspired Disney's Frozen.

Of course, this list is just our top picks--be sure to check out our Long Island Events Calendar regularly as it is always being updated. And to receive this post right into your inbox, sign up for our newsletter, which is now going out twice a week (Mondays and Thursdays).

We've rounded up something fun to do across the state each day. Although we only highlight one activity per day in this post, you can find plenty of other options in our Event Calendar. This week you can go to the planetarium, hang out with your American Girl Doll, take a free Broadway dance class and more. With the snow that fell this weekend, make sure to check out our Winter Fun Guide for more ideas. Have fun! Editor's Note: With the blizzard coming across the state, some of these events may be canceled or postponed. Always call the venue first to confirm. Stay warm and safe!

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