MOXI Santa Barbara: What Parents Need to Know Before Taking Kids (From a Mom Who’s Been There)

Submitted by Kylie Williams on

The Sheldon Family Handprint Globe at MOXI. Photo by Kylie Williams

Did you know that there is a charming, innovative, creativity-sparking children's museum in Santa Barbara? I've heard about MOXI: The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation for years. This winter break, with the rainy weather and lack of plans, was the perfect time to set aside a day and take my four kiddos (ages 9, 6, 5, and 3) to finally see what this spot is all about.

Whether you are looking for a great indoor activity for a rainy day or an adventure after a morning at the Santa Barbara Zoo, the MOXI is number one on my list of things to do for families visiting Santa Barbara. You'll know it from the moment you reach the darling front entrance that has an adult door and a "children's door" just the right size for tiny visitors, so step in and enjoy a day of fun mixed with learning for everyone. 

Where to Pick Strawberries Near Orlando: 7 Family-Friendly Strawberry Farms

Submitted by Charlotte B on

Kids can pick their own strawberries at various u-pick farms.

Strawberry picking in Orlando runs December through March, making it a perfect wintertime outing for families. A day at a Central Florida strawberry farm offers fresh air, hands-on fun, and a chance to connect with nature while making sweet memories together. Below, we’ve rounded up the best u-pick farms for strawberry picking near Orlando, along with helpful tips to make the most of your outdoor adventure.

30 Fun Things To Do With Kids for February's Winter Break in Atlanta

Submitted by Melanie Preis on

The 2026 Lunar New Year Festival at Stone Mountain Park kicks off on February 14 and runs every weekend through March 1. Photo courtesy Stone Mountain Park

Atlanta's February winter break is a week-long school vacation for many metro school districts. Though parents may be thinking "not another school break," kids are sure to be smiling for time off. For most Atlanta school districts, the winter break takes place across February 16-27, 2026. We've got great ideas to fill up your February winter break in Atlanta, including fairy houses, dinosaurs, and a Laurie Berkner concert at Atlanta Symphony Hall. 

In addition to awesome Atlanta events during the break, we've rounded up fun school break camps that will keep kids entertained during the week. Contact winter camps right away if you want your kiddos to attend as spots fill quickly.

61 Birthday Freebies for Kids: Where Kids Get Free Food, Gifts, and Fun

Submitted by Audrey M on

Starbucks birthday freebies can include cake pops, drinks, or other treats! Photo by Jessica Stautberg

These birthday freebies for kids are free food, gifts, or special treats offered by restaurants, stores, and brands to celebrate a child’s birthday.

Birthday freebies for kids are a huge help: the sticker price for kids' birthday celebrations can be huge! So every little birthday freebie for kids is a gift to parents, too! Here, we've rounded up 61 places that offer up free stuff on your birthday. 

Read on to discover how to score Starbucks birthday freebies, free burgers and ice cream, calls from favorite characters (like Paw Patrol or SpongeBob), discounts on clothes, surprise gifts, and even more birthday freebies for kids.

For more birthday freebies near you, check out your city's Guide to Free Things To Do with Kids; and when you're ready to plan that party, be sure to check out our Birthday Party Ideas Guide for Unique Goody Bag and Party Favor Ideas, 100 Kids' Birthday Party Themes, and more.

School Break Camps in Westchester and the Hudson Valley for Days Off from School

Submitted by Katherine Dhurandhar on

Learn how the seasons affect nature at Hudson Highlands Nature Center. Photo courtesy of the center

We know how it is—the kids have a holiday break, and you don't! Or you just want to get them out of the house and off the screens during the school breaks. Luckily, there are lots of school holiday camps available in Westchester and the Hudson Valley that will not only keep your kids busy but teach them new and enriching skills.

We've rounded up multiple local places that offer camps during winter break, spring break, and even single-day school holidays. There are camps for kids who want to get their hands dirty in the great outdoors, hone their sports skills, or even learn to code their favorite game.

Be sure to check out our Family Activity Calendar for more fun things to do during the upcoming school break. And, if you're looking ahead to the end of the school year, bookmark our Guide to Summer Camp for Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids.

Pages