We're taking a break from the holiday rush to share a few non-seasonal stories that have intrigued us over the past few weeks.

This edition of our Notable News roundup features articles about schools, changes to Governors Island and a new Laurie Berkner e-book, and ends with a video so wonderful, it could make Scrooge himself smile. (Because really, we're kind of Scrooge-like right about now...and yet we grinned.)

The countdown has begun, but hey, there’s still time for fun and frivolity, no? Unless, of course, you’re one of those people who still needs to do all your shopping (I don’t know anyone like that, certainly not me, ahem). There are lights, holiday train rides, trees, teas and menorah lightings, so get out there and have some family time. Merry Merry!

While there are plenty of things to do in New York City over holiday break, school recess is a great time for families to explore the world beyond the five boroughs.

Over the years, our readers have shared their favorite family-friendly day trips. Now we've got 10 more mini-itineraries to add to the list. These getaways are all within two hours of NYC, and many are even accessible without a car. Best of all, some of them have special activities and attractions in honor of the holiday season.

At this time of year, it's very easy to get caught up in spending a lot of money on gifts for family and friends, or high-priced holiday events. But really, you don't have to part with a penny to enjoy the holidays in NYC. We've been telling you about all kinds of free fun like going to see Christmas trees and giant menorahs, or taking a family stroll past all of the department store windows. Now we have a brand-new no-cost celebration to add to our must-experience list: Make Music Winter.

Every year, Make Music sponsors more than 1,000 complimentary outdoor concerts on the first day of summer throughout NYC. For the first time, the organization will sponsor 12 free music parades to mark the start of winter on Wednesday, December 21. Families can watch or sometimes even join these processions as they travel throughout a dozen NYC neighborhoods. It sounds like a wonderful variation on traditional Christmas caroling that combines three of our favorite things: creativity, community and no-cost entertainment.

This year will be my 5^th Annual Holiday Cookie Extravaganza. We make the treats, we package them all pretty, and then we drink wine, eat soup and chex mix, and take home a nice big bag of baked love. The kids decorate gingerbread people, and get too close to the tree. It’s a sparkly, twinkly, cheery way to welcome the holidays and I’m ever so grateful for the friends that keep coming back. Here’s a few of the greatest cookie hits. Happy baking!

There's plenty to do in Boston this holiday break - catch a movie or a show, visit a museum, take a day trip, spend some time outdoors. With the kids off from school, it is a perfect time to slow the pace down and really enjoy what the city has to offer. Read on for some of our best bets and have a great break, no matter what you decide to do.

According to a recent “study” in The Atlantic, Santa must deliver presents to a little more than 526,000,000 kids. That’s about 22 million kids per hour, or 61,000 per second. No small feat. And, I’m guessing with all those presents, a pretty heavy sleigh.

So, dear Santa Claus, if you’re reading this, consider lightening your load this year and throwing in a few gifts with less heft. Leave the toy sword at the North Pole and offer the kids a fencing class in its place. And rather than a miniature barn and plastic ponies, why not a horse ride through Griffith Park or riding lessons at the Traditional  Equestrian School?

Have a look at the other ideas we have gathered. And parents, you too! With these gift suggestions we just might lighten our holiday closet loads as well.

[UPDATED: July 19, 2012]

Like any parent, I’m always on the prowl for cool things to do with my kids. However, as the mother of an autistic son, our activity choices have to fit certain sensory criteria. My 9-year-old son Jake can't be exposed to overpowering or sudden noises, and he doesn't do well in very dark rooms. He also jumps up and flaps his arms when he's excited, so he needs a good amount of personal space.

Unfortunately, this means that going to the movies—one of Jake's favorite activities—isn't as easy as buying a ticket. Luckily, AMC Theatres has partnered with the Autism Society to offer monthly sensory-friendly family film screenings throughout the U.S., including three theaters right here in New York City.

Read on for details about how these special screenings accommodate children with special sensory needs, and find out about upcoming films in NYC.