We’re in full on spring mode here in New Jersey and it sure does feel wonderful! Our state has a ton of family-friendly ways to celebrate Earth Day so check out Liberty State Park’s “Green Cities” fair, Wild Earth Fest at Trailside Nature Center or Daffodil Day at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum. For more springtime fun, sign up for a muddy Farm Run at Fernbrook Farm, attend a Teddy Bear Picnic at High Point State Park or sit back and enjoy a performance of Sid the Science Kid – Live! at the Mayo Performing Arts Center, or find a full list of weekend activities on our Event Calendar.

In-the-know parents realize that coding is an important skill that will help children succeed in our increasingly tech-heavy world. And yet, computer programming still isn’t offered in most schools. That’s why Mommy Poppins is partnering with Code.org and Girls Who Code to help teach families how to do it at a pair of exclusive events.

Join us for Coding + Cupcakes, a special FREE early Mother’s Day workshop where moms and daughters can learn to code together using Code.org tutorials. Find out how easy it is to code with help from volunteers from Girls Who Code, a nonprofit group that's making sure girls aren't left behind in our technology-driven society. And to make this mother-daughter event extra sweet, everyone gets to decorate a cupcake, too.

With summer right around the corner, parents have a lot of planning on their plates to ensure a fun-filled time away from school. There are many overnight camp choices for kids without dietary restrictions, but let's face it: for those who do have dietary concerns - gluten-free, peanut-free, vegan, or other needs - the list is not as long. For those moms and dads who want overnight camps as a potential activity for their kids this summer, here's a list to consider, especially if diet is a concern.

The following camps are located throughout the west of the US and have a focus on special diets and accommodating food allergies.

In recent years, Westchester County has seen an explosion in the number of parents seeking services, enrichment and experiences for children who experience sensory information in non-standard ways. In response, businesses and institutions across Westchester have created programs to match the needs of local families. While there are many places where parents can go for occupational and physical therapy, there are also times when kids just want to do what kids do best--play! We found six local gyms and play spaces that open their doors to kids who experience the world in unique ways, helping them develop motor skills, core strength, balance, coordination, sensory integration and more in a fun and engaging way.

Do you have a crafty kid in your home? It might be time to introduce them to the wonderful world of sewing. By learning to use a sewing machine, children can begin to design their own clothes, stuffed animals and accessories. In addition, sewing helps kids develop problem solving skills, strong motor skills and attention to detail. Central NJ is home to some wonderful sewing schools that offer after school classes and summer camps. For more summer camp ideas for creative kids, check out our post on Central New Jersey Summer Art Camps.

We finish up our spring culture coverage with a roundup of the ten best kids' concerts taking place this season. They're not all your usual kindie rock suspects, either. There are some seriously awesome-sounding family music shows coming up including a one-day-only concert by the queen of preschool rock, Laurie Berkner; a kid-friendly performance by former 10,000 Maniacs singer Natalie Merchant; an album release party for Brooklyn songstress and mom Suzi Shelton; and the New York Philharmonic's fun classical spin on Pixar movie themes.

As usual, we've kept an eye on the prices. Yes, a few of the special concerts command high ticket fees, but some picks are under $20 and three are 100% FREE. Here are 10 concerts where you can clap, dance and sing along this spring.

We continue our month-long coverage of Eastchester (including its villages, Bronxville and Tuckahoe). We've already told you about great places to shop for kids in Eastchester, now we're turning our attention to kid friendly eateries in the area. Dining with kids can be tough sometimes. Luckily, Eastchester offers a variety of restaurants that are sure to please the whole crew, tots to teens. From family friendly taverns to Mexican cuisine, Italian fare, great dessert spots and more, Eastchester offers choices for every palate and we've rounded up our favorites. Read on for our top picks of "kid-tested and approved" local eateries.

One of my favorite ways to spend a Sunday is by getting my family all dressed up and going out for a great brunch.  My husband and children are what you might call "foodies", and giving them the opportunity to pick and choose from a bountiful buffet or design their own omelets (none of which I have to prepare) makes for an enjoyable outing for all of us.  New Jersey is home to tons of great brunch spots, but some of the best brunches in the state are located in our beautiful hotels.  Great customer service, a bountiful menu and beautiful decor make these hotel brunches standouts.  Just in time for Mother's Day, our list features some great hotel brunches throughout the Garden State.  If you are interested in heading into New York City for brunch, check out our post on New York City Hotel Brunches.