Last September, on the heels of the Olympic hype, we featured gymnastics classes. Now that the weather has turned colder, we thought it time to feature gyms with plenty of open-play sessions. If cabin fever has taken over your home as it has mine, you may find yourself in the market for a place where the kids can play every day of the week. In my case, now that my little one is walking and jumping, I need a spot that can accommodate both my  rambunctious 4-year-old as well as my toddler. Sound unrealistic? Well, this mom is thrilled to report that I have managed to find several spots fitting that tall bill. So whether you've got just one child or more, the following places will keep 'em busy and active all winter long. 

Ah, karaoke, a favorite activity for rowdy office parties and over-21 birthdays. The last time I went to a karaoke place, my coat ended up on the floor, soaking in a puddle of beer. It was a fun night out... but one I couldn't share with my children.

But karaoke-loving kids don't need to confine their singing to the shower. They can enjoy an authentic experience, minus the R-rated lyrics and copious amounts of alcohol, at a number of New York City karaoke spots that have family-friendly hours during the daytime. Many of these places even offer children's party packages where the bottomless pitchers of beer are replaced with juice or soda.

With winter’s chilly days and even colder nights, it’s tough to get any outdoor play time. We know cabin fever is bound to set in…soon. Your mission: Get the kids out of the house. Now! You could swing by a library, see a movie, enjoy some indoor play or even ice fish or you could choose something off our list of ideas to break cabin fever. So get climbing, get inspired, get swinging or get laughing -- just get out! And remember, this weather won’t last forever. Daylight savings is only 44 days away (who’s counting?!)

Got a budding chef in the house who loves to help with the cooking? Can’t get your kid out of the kitchen? Then a cooking party might  just be the perfect way to celebrate your child’s birthday!

We've found 4 culinary adventure parties for kids in and around Boston. Whether you're looking for a chef who will come to you or you'd rather go someplace where everything you need is already there, we've got the 411. Read on for all the details. (Warning: Reading this post may make you hungry, or possibly even cause you to drool.)

It is rare for parents and children to be able to see a play together without one or the other of them feeling that they are performing an act of self sacrifice. Achieving this delicate balance is just the challenge that 24th Street Theatre has given itself as a directive for its new resident company. The theater celebrates its 15th season with a pledge to produce cutting edge theater that can be enjoyed on different levels simultaneously, by adults and children alike. If the current production, Walking the Tightrope, is an indication of what is to come, LA theater lovers have a lot to look forward to.