With bouncy houses parties taking over the birthday scene, why not opt for an out-of-the-box idea? Farms across Long Island host kiddie birthday parties, complete with hands-on animal encounters and farm-life experiences. Take a look at our list of family-friendly farms that will give your child a hee-haw happy birthday. For other great ideas, check out our Long Island Party Guide.

As the weather gets cooler and activities turn indoors, there's no reason kids have to stop playing the sports they've grown to love--or are expressing an interest in trying out. Luckily, there are a few places across Long Island that offers children the chance to stay active no matter what the weather is like outside. These complexes offer indoor sports facilities that cater to leagues for little ones, clinics, birthday parties and more. And for more extra-curricular activities, check out our Long Island Classes Guide.

If your creative kid has moved on from Rainbow Loom, perhaps an organized jewelry making or fashion design class might be the best next step. From bead stringing and soldering to sketching and color theories, there are a few courses/workshops on Long Island where they learn skills and make wearable art. Your local school district's continuing education program or library might offer courses as well.

For more after-school classes, activities and programs for kids in the area, check out our Long Island Classes Guide.