School's out for summer! Camps, vacations, and family visits are scheduled—or maybe you prefer a local, relaxing summer with lazy days spent at the beach or working on our 100 Things to Do with Kids in LA list. No matter what your family style, all kids can benefit from a summer reading program. Public libraries often have programs; but did you know that there are several other free programs for all ages, with prizes, certificates, and sometimes extra activities?

If you have an adventure loving kiddie on your hands, the usual bounce house birthday party might not quench their need for speed. Your thrill seeking boy or girl can have the time of their lives at one of these birthday spots on Long Island that will have you zipping, zooming, driving and diving. Be sure to call for up-to-date pricing and availability. And for more birthday party ideas, check out our Long Island Party Guide.

I've never been that into creepy crawlies. And I am quite terrified of most insects and spiders. But as a mother I happily take on the challenge of facing my fears, in an effort to expose my little one to new and exciting experiences. The Tarantulas: Alive and Up Close exhibit, which just opened at the Academy of Natural Sciences, is one of these experiences. And, as often happens, it turned out to be way more awesome than I expected! 

Most of us, when we think of the Vikings, imagine a horned skullcap and stormy shores. We imagine swashbucklers with swords plundering nearby nations. After all, isn't that what TV and the movies want us what to think?

But while the signature skullcap can be found on fun goodies in the gift shop, Discovery Times Square’s new Vikings exhibit—organized with the Swedish History Museum and MuseumPartners Austria—goes out of its way to debunk stereotypes, introducing the ancient culture as one of farming and family, where art and textiles were explored and trade was the major reason for travel, not a bloodthirsty need for empire expansion.

Whether you are a new parent or a seasoned professional, we all need a night off. Especially when it comes to a night dedicated to romance. A date night for V-Day doesn’t have to be a distant memory! Check out one of these fab NJ places offering drop-off services and Valentine’s Day fun on and around the big day for the kiddos and slow down for a much-needed break with your Valentine. And for other fun stuff this month, check out our February GoList.

Many childhood experts agree that attending a high-quality preschool is important in helping children to prepare for kindergarten and beyond. In such a setting, little ones begin to understand structure, how to wait their turn and work in a team, and lay a strong academic foundation that includes richer vocabularies and stronger basic match skills. But such an experience should not cost as much as college tuition. In the Hartford area, there are many preschools that offer an enriching curriculum at a more affordable price. Here are a few names to help start your search for the perfect fit for your child:

What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than a family nature hike. Central New Jersey’s hiking trails pass through a diversity of beautiful surroundings that include forests, lakes, animal habitats, waterfalls and even historical landmarks. Hiking is a fun way for families to get fresh air, exercise and explore the great outdoors together. Many of the hiking locations also have playgrounds, nature centers and picnic areas, so plan to make a day of it. Pack up the snacks, the camera, a trail map, and check out these five picks for family friendly hikes in Central New Jersey.

When the GRAMMY Museum arrived on the LA scene back in 2008, my son was five years old - too young, I felt, to enjoy a museum full of musicians he'd never heard of. And since the Mom Years are not a time to indulge in museums for my own personal enjoyment, John Lennon's glasses would have to wait. Or so I thought. Happily one of the museum's periodic family concerts lured us there ahead of schedule, and I discovered that the GRAMMY Museum is not just a Mecca for aging rockers. In fact, for a parent ready to think outside the playspace, this is a fabulous play spot on a rainy day!