Deciding where to have your baby’s first (or second) birthday is a big deal. Having a party at home isn’t always an option—sometimes your living space doesn’t allow for large gatherings or you just want someone else to do the heavy lifting. Luckily there are several no-hassle options in the Boston area for making your baby’s birthday party unforgettable. And if you’re looking for more birthday party ideas, perhaps for an older child, be sure to check out Mommy Poppins Boston's Birthday Party Guide.

Getting back into shape after having a baby can be daunting. But we know exercise gives us more energy, encourages a positive body image, and just seems to make us feel better. Don't know where to start? A postnatal exercise class geared toward new moms is a great way to get motivated, meet other new moms, and learn what exercises will help you look like your old self (or better).

We've rounded up 10 postnatal exercise classes in New York City that address the needs of your new body. Many are baby friendly and some offer free or discounted trial classes. As with any new exercise program, check with your doctor for the go-ahead.

Check our NYC Baby Guide from Pregnancy to Preschool for more new mom city info, or find more classes in our Classes Guide and Directory Listings.

This year, the festive holiday of Purim begins in the evening of Wednesday, March 23rd, and ends in the evening of Thursday, March 24th. Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia who escaped the wrath of Prime Minister Haman. The holiday honors a brave Queen named Esther, her defiant but dedicated cousin Mordechai, and King Ahasuerus, who protected the Jewish people from Haman. A Purim custom is for children (and adults!) to dress up and disguise themselves—an allusion to the fact that the miracle of Purim was disguised in natural garments.  Below is a list of Purim events in New Jersey the whole family can attend. Have fun dressing up and don't forget to pick up some hamantaschen!

For parents’ of kids with special-needs, sometimes it helps to know you’re not alone and to talk to someone else who gets it. But finding support from parents who know what you’re going through can fall to the bottom of a long to-do list. We’ve gathered some of the best support resources—both online and in-person—for parents of New York City kids with special needs.

Flashing lights, energizing music, giggles galore, and beloved characters that defy generational boundaries – this pretty much sums up the Sesame Street Live! Let’s Dance show, a high-energy experience that has children and adults alike dancing in their seats.

West Hartford is home to many child-friendly attractions, such as The New Children’s Museum, Westmoor Park, and Veterans Memorial Skating Rink. In the bustle of outstanding libraries, beautiful parks, and delightful eateries, it is easy to overlook a very special destination: Noah Webster House, the childhood home of one of America’s most influential personalities.

Long Island families can celebrate Purim at one of these fun-filled events. There will be costumes, songs, games and hamantaschen. And for other activities in the area, be sure to check out our Long Island Events Calendar.

Williamsburg might still be Brooklyn's hipster haven, but it's also filled with baby boutiques, play spaces and other family attractions, including a slew of cool kid-friendly restaurants. Back in my single childless days, I lived in Williamsburg for a decade. I probably saw two strollers during that entire time. OK, that's a slight exaggeration. Still, much has changed in Williamsburg over the past few years. McCarren Park is often the center of neighborhood family activities, and there's a new Museum of Food and Drink that hosts kid workshops. 

Even with the new family vibe, it can be intimidating to saddle up to any NYC restaurant with kids in tow. Sometimes you just pray they'll let you in without THAT face. But actually we had a hard time whittling down our list of family favorite dining spots in this hood! Our 15 picks all feature delicious eats for kids (and adults, of course), low-key or welcoming atmospheres, high chairs or boosters and sometimes even changing tables. From A-Z, read on for our our top places to eat with kids in Williamsburg.