An inventive twist on the old Frankenstein tale, The Perfect Monster addresses urgent adolescent issues such as bullying, loneliness, and the perils of perfectionism without getting heavy-handed.

This latest musical from TADA! Youth Theater focuses on shy and friendless Sybil (Kahlea Hsu at the performance attended), a rad scientist who's long been trying to build the perfect pal in her basement. So far, she's only managed to concoct a coterie of oddballs fashioned from odds and ends like mailboxes, kitchen utensils, and shoes. But when she puts prized possessions from the popular classmates she idolizes into her cauldron, out pops Perfection (Ashely Figueroa at the performance attended), a truly flawless friend. Or is she?

Read our review to get a sense of what you're in for—or check out our complete Theater Guide for NYC Kids for loads more options.

In addition to being incredibly cool and thrilling—flips off the halfpipe! football-field-length ski jumps! a sport actually named skeleton!—the Winter Olympics offer a time to come together with family and friends and feel pride in our country's athletes. Most importantly, in the Olympic spirit, the Games allow us to connect with other cultures. I say that calls for a celebration of Olympic proportions! Here are 15 ideas for a kid-centered Winter Olympics party; we’ve chosen simple, inexpensive, and fun ways to get together and celebrate the excitement of the Olympics, cultural understanding, wintertime, and family time.

Choosing a preschool is no small feat, especially in LA where there are so many options. From Montessori to Reggio and from nature-based to play-based, each preschool offers educational methods as varied as the colors of the rainbow. Of course, another thing most schools offer is waiting lists, so it's great to get in ahead of the curve on new preschools, before everyone else in town figures out how great they are. The nine schools below are all new to the scene, and all worth checking out!

Following last year's announcement of a Beauty and the Beast themed European river cruise, Disney Cruise Lines has opened a spectacular new stage production of Beauty and the Beast exclusively on the Disney Dream. I can’t recommend this show enough—it’s sure to be a highlight of anyone's vacation (maybe even more than the all-you-can-eat-soft-serve)—and who knew you could improve on a trip to the Bahamas?

Ocean breezes, sandy toes, and beachside eateries are just a sampling of what a day in Hermosa Beach has to offer, but this cozy community is more than just fun in the sun. The next time the ocean air is calling your name, head to Hermosa Beach for a fun family adventure. Don’t miss these 10 things to do while you’re there.

If you’re wondering what’s been happening at the space that used to house Fun4All in Port Jefferson Station, well, wonder no more. We’ve got the scoop!

New York City has tons to offer—and that it can be overwhelming at times. Knowing where to catch a break and grab a bite to eat can be a daunting endeavor, even for the native New Yorker. The Whitney Museum of American Art is a treasure for families, but how can you avoid the tourist traps, fancy froo-froo, and kid-adverse eateries once you're done with your tour?

That's why we've rounded up 10 of the best spots where you can grab a quick bite or even sit down for a full meal. For more family-friendly eateries, check out our NYC Restaurant Guide.

From splashy musicals to TV-inspired celebrations, Boston is a hub of special performances suitable for all ages. Live shows are a fun way to get out of the house, learn something new, and experience the arts. Whether you've got a preschooler or a preteen, there are some great shows happening in the area this year, from Paw Patrol to—yes, it's really happening!—Hamilton. To help you plan ahead, we’ve rounded up this list of shows coming to the area this winter, spring, and fall.