Finding supportive and inspiring arts and development programs for children with special needs isn't always easy. Luckily, families in Orange County and surrounding areas have Zylofone, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing such quality programming and opportunities. This Campbell Hall-based group provides music-centered workshops that promote creativity and growth in both physical and cognitive abilities.

Founded by a single mother who raised twin boys with special needs, Zylofone offers engaging and tailored programming designed to be compassionate, encouraging, educational and fun for students of all ages and their families.

Looking for more creative programming for children in Westchester and the Hudson Valley? Consult our Classes Guide and sign up for our newsletters.

Yes, infanthood is a wonderful time, full of snuggles and milestones. But entertainment options for non-walkers and even early walkers can start to feel repetitive day after day. Once you've tried all the baby play spaces and gyms, playgrounds, and even stroller tours at museums, what's next?

The thing about New York City, is there's always something open, always something going on, and always something new to try. We've rounded up some out-of-box ideas to shake up your daily routine with your NYC kids ages 12 months and under—many of these ideas are 100% FREE things—and most will also entertain your toddlers. Each destination is loaded with sights and sounds or another cool sensory experience for little ones, plus a change of scenery for the grown-up. So read on to plan the next city adventure with your little one.

Peruse our NYC Baby Guide for more need-to-know info and cool activities for the littlest New Yorkers.

There are many great reasons to expose children to music early on, including research that links a musical mind to a higher IQ. While listening to Mozart won't necessarily turn children into geniuses, listening to musical patterns stimulates the brain. Music classes are a fun and engaging way to interact with babies, toddlers, and other parents. Here's a list of several Long Island classes that offer a variety of musical styles. Most classes offer free demos, so try one out to see which one is the best fit. For additional class suggestions, see our Classes and Activities Guide for Long Island Kids.

If you're still lamenting the fact that Toys "R" Us left a giant Ferris-wheel-sized hole in Times Square for the past two years, you can get excited again because...it's returning! Well, at least for the holiday season. The big-box toy brand is opening a 35,000-square-foot, three-floor location at 42nd street and Broadway, beginning Saturday, August 26 at 9am, and running through the holiday season. (I guess "just in time for the holidays" means different things to different people.)

The three-story pop-up shop is full of new and classic buys for the little ones on your holiday list, but it's offering more than just a shopping trip.

Whether you couldn't put down the classic book or can hum along to all the hits from the iconic movie, most adults remember Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from our childhoods. Producing a new musical version of such a popular story might sound risky, but Warner Brothers took that challenge and ran with it, with a Broadway production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that opened this past April at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. There are definitely a couple of things you should know about this dark tale before deciding to take the kiddos, but all in all, the show received a well-earned round of wild applause from children and adults alike.

Surrounded by the flat, meandering Charles, Boston has a reputation for some great kayaking and canoeing. But whitewater adventures? Not so much. However, in just a few hours or less, you can find real-deal rapids that rival many you might find in the southern mountains or even out west. Even better, southern New England is home to some experienced guide companies who run family-focused trips that introduce beginners to whitewater rafting with an eye toward safety, education, and fun. If you think your crew is game to try some whitewater rafting, here's a breakdown of three companies who operate trips in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and southern Vermont.

Nothing compares to the beauty of New England Falls: the breathtaking colors of the foliage with the reds, oranges, yellows and browns cannot be found anywhere else. A beautiful, sunny October day is the perfect time to head out to explore one of Fairfield County’s many, beautiful parks. We have many favorites and look forward to nice autumn weekends to be able to visit them all. Check out our complete Fall Fun Guide for more ways to savor the season. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and don't miss out on any fun this season!

Monroe is a quiet, little outpost north of Bridgeport on the way to Danbury, with the obligatory (and lovely) town green/gazebo this state is known for.  But that old town center is now a long way into town from the highway — most of Monroe's hustle and bustle these days is along one of two corridors — route 25 or route 111 (Monroe Turnpike), near the Trumbull line.  That being said, there are a couple of outdoor gems off the beaten path that make a trek out from lower Fairfield County worth the time spent getting there, whether your kiddos are tiny or teens.