 Family Favorites
By Jean Sheff
We asked our readers to tell us about their Family Favorites and were delighted to hear what they had to say. From ice cream shops to family fitness centers, the word is out on what is hot in our area. And, remember, a fabulous tip from an experienced parent is worth its weight in gold.
Tasty Treats
Ice Cream Shop
Carvel
Briarcliff Manor, Bedford Hills, Yorktown, Croton-on-Hudson, Hartsdale, Jefferson Valley, Port Chester, Harrison, Yonkers. Stamford, Danbury, Norwalk and Ridgefield, Conn.
Various other location
http://www.carvel.com
Beginning in the 1990s, Carvel products could be found in supermarkets and other retail locations, but our readers enjoy getting their treats at the local Carvel stand. Tom Carvel opened his very first Carvel store in Hartsdale, so the product is especially local. A Carvel birthday cake, with its famous layer of chocolate cookie crunchies, is a favorite birthday cake for many children.
Cold Stone Creamery
Somers, Pleasantville, Mohegan Lake, White Plains and Stamford, Conn.
http://www.coldstonecreamery.com
Kids and adults rave about the custom ice cream creations made on a frozen granite stone. Visiting the shop is part of the overall experience. They serve ice cream creations as well as smoothies, shakes and cakes.
Good Humor Ice Cream Truck
Many readers told us that ice cream tastes the best on a hot summer's day when they purchase it from the local ice cream truck. Seems just the novelty is enough to still give kids and parents a thrill.
Great Gelato
Ice cream is nice, but our readers tell us gelato is great!
Ossining Pizzeria & Restaurant
Ossining
762-1455
You might stop here for a nice slice of pizza, but you'll be sure to go back again and again for the wonderful gelato. Choose from 20 flavors including the healthy sounding green apple, peach and raspberry.
Gelatissimo Artisan Gelato
New Canaan, Conn.
203-966-5000
The word is this gelato is as authentic as it gets. Made fresh daily, it can be eaten at the café tables in this lemon, lime and beige-colored shop or to go. The Tarrytown-based couple that own the shop are originally from Italy where they honed their gelato making skills.
Via Vanti!
Mount Kisco
666-6400
This new hot spot located in the Mount Kisco train station serves up some 12 gelato and six sorbetto flavors. And for a real twist try their gelato shakes or sorbetto smoothies. Get on their mailing list to learn about their special events. In June kids learned how to order their favorite gelato in Italian. We hear a gelato-making class is coming soon.
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Sweets and Treat Shop
Fuzziwig's Candy Factory
Palisades Center Mall, West Nyack
845-358-3262
Local parents have reported that a little sugar makes the shopping go smoother. They found this out by visiting Fuzziwig's Candy Factory in the Palisades Mall. Funny how a bag of candy can make the most impatient kid willing to try on school shoes.
Lollipop the Candy Stop
Tarrytown
332-0780
Candy never goes out of style and at Lollipop's you can find out why. Try true favorites like rock candy sticks or the latest candy creation.
Main Street Sweets
Tarrytown, Bronxville
332-5757
This shop makes homemade ice cream, cookies, cakes and other goodies that can satisfy even the sweetest tooth. The family-owned operation opened a second location in Bronxville that serves the same delicious menu. The indoor and outdoor seating is very welcoming and birthday parties are a specialty. For something different ask about their "take home" sundae parties.
Rocnroe's Pop Shop
Pleasantville
747-9797
http://www.rocnroespopshop.com
This retro ice cream and candy shop delights the kids as well as the Jacob Burns Film Center after-movie crowd. You'll find a wall of candy including old-time favorites and Longford's own-made ice cream. Café tables inside and out invite you to linger and on Friday nights they feature kid karaoke!
Restaurant for Dining with Children
Bellizzi
Mount Kisco, Larchmont
241-1200; 833-5800
http://www.bellizzifood.com
Pizza, pastas and upscale salads served in a space that offers a playroom for the kids. Gluten-free pizza is now on the menu and so is gelato for dessert. Take-out and delivery service is available. The Larchmont location books mommy & me performances. Check Web site for upcoming events.
Umami Café
Croton-on-Hudson
271-5555
Good prices, great food. Who could ask for more? How about a great kids menu listed on View-Masters that keep kids busy throughout the meal. Kids go for the mac n' cheese while parents enjoy more adult fare and appreciate that wine and beer is served. Great outdoor deck.
Wobble Café
Ossining
762-3459
http://www.wobblecafe.com
Offering brunch, lunch and dinner in a cozy, child-friendly environment. Kids love the play area (as do parents). Crepes, salads and sammies and other home-style fare fill out the menu at this husband and wife owned eatery.
Pizza Parlor
Sal's Pizzeria
Mamaroneck
381-2022
It's still the best. For the second year in a row folks give the thumbs up to the Sicilian and salad slices at this popular neighborhood joint. Reasonable prices and quick, friendly service make this one of our readers' favorite pizza stops.
Hot New Spot: π New Rochelle
New Rochelle
636-4314
Once you walk through the front wall of glass doors into this new Italian oasis you'll want to return again and again. Chef-partner Sal Luppino, born and raised in Italy, creates his famous thin crust pizza and serves them in-house in a comfortable atmosphere. They offer free delivery in the local area.
Go Gluten-Free
With food sensitivities on the rise many parents are scrambling to find gluten-free food these days. Our readers report that their children are happy with the offerings at these local establishments.
Bellizi
Mount Kisco, Larchmont
241-1200; 833-5800
http://www.bellizzifood.com
Gluten-free pizza! Plus there's a playspace for kids and adult food for parents.
Uno Chicago Grill
Yonkers, White Plains
779-7515; 684-7040
The whole family can have a dining experience while gluten-free diets are maintained. Gluten-free pizza and other entrees served.
Three Dogs Gluten-Free Bakery
Briarcliff Manor
762-2121
And if you'd like a little gluten-free dessert, or a birthday cake, you can find it here at this local all-things-gluten-free bakery.
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Party Magic
Party Supply Store
Christmas Tree Shop
Hartsdale, Danbury, Conn.
948-3721; 203-791-1114
http://www.christmastreeshops.com
Their motto is "Don't you just love a bargain?" and parents tell us they are finding them at this store year round. Obviously popular during the holiday season, Christmas Tree Shops feature goodies for all seasons and holidays. Wicker baskets, gift boxes, note cards, invitations, home décor, tableware and candles are featured.
Oriental Trading
800-875-8480
http://www.orientaltrading.com
Sometimes a mom just has to shop online. And our readers say the convenience, good prices and fast delivery makes this shop the go-to place for online party goods. The party theme packs make your event look oh-so-pulled-together.
Party City
Port Chester, Yorktown and Fairfield, Stamford, Conn. Various other locations
http://www.partycity.com
A discount party superstore featuring a wide range of paper products, decorations, supplies, balloons, piñatas and costumes. You'll find a big selection of baby and first birthday items as well as goods for themed parties.
Party Place
Fun Craft
Scarsdale
472-1748
http://www.funcraftparties.com
This is the third year in a row that Fun Craft has won our Family Favorite Award! They must be doing plenty right. Kids can get creative at this "we-do-it-all-for-you" arts and crafts party place. Parties can also include children's games, music, dance and entertainment.
House of Fun
White Plains
358-4550
www.whiteplainshouseoffun.com
A family-owned party and play center. Offering a wide range of activities from toddler play space to computer gaming. Carnival mirrors, crafts, wall games and a tattoo "parlor" entertain kids ages 2-10. Parties include invitations, pizza, beverage, paper goods and games.
Jodi's Gym
Mount Kisco
244-8811
www.jodisgym.com
Kids love the action-packed gymnastic party and adults appreciate the quality supervision. After the tumbling fun everyone heads to the clean, colorful party room where Jodi's staff arranges edibles and provides full service. Parents can sit back and enjoy the event.
Little Rembrandt
Rye Brook
939-1400
Children love the music and games in the custom movement room. The expert staff and packaged themed parties allow parents to relax and enjoy the fun too!
And Now For Something Totally Different ...
Parents often look for a birthday party theme that's new and different, sometimes they don't want to reveal their finds, but here are a few great ideas.
Downunder Kayaking
Rowayton, Conn.
203-852-0011
www.downunderkayaking.com
Kayaking has taken off big time and now there's a place that can cater to the birthday child's "on the water" wishes. Children ages 8 and up can enjoy themed kayaking parties with expert guides who provide safety. Kids camp too!
First Person Sports
New York
888-377-1337
www.firstpersonsportsny.com
This is ultra-lazer tag! "Live the game," is the company's motto and they provide everything you need to make this "exertainment" (a balance of physical exercise and video gaming) experience a hands-on birthday party. They set the game up in the location of your choice and even provide outdoor inflatables for these laser skirmish events.
Make-A-Movie Parties
533-7294; 212-645-9487
www.perryproductions.net
Children ages 8 and up are literally the star of the show when they gather their friends to make a movie. Themed movies include an Action Adventure Movie, A Detective Story, Science Fiction Movie, The Wacky News, a Rock Video Awards or a movie of your choice. Costumes, props, improvisational direction and videotaping all included. Children see the movie they just made while they eat the birthday cake - instant satisfaction.
Treasure Hunt Adventures
Carmel
845-225-2539
www.treasurehuntadventures.com
Who doesn't love searching for treasure? Based on the Scandinavian activity of orienteering (where searchers look for treasures aided only by a map and compass) Treasure Hunt Adventures makes a kid-friendly map and treasure hunt of your property or local park. The same quality staff that runs corporate teambuilding events makes the party fun and exciting for children.
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Birthday Cakes
Carvel
Various locations
www.carvel.com
A Carvel sheet cake is the quintessential kids' birthday cake. There are rarely leftovers when you serve this popular confection made with layers of chocolate and vanilla ice cream separated by a layer of chocolate crunchies.
Costco
New Rochelle, Port Chester, Yonkers and Norwalk, Conn.
www.costco.com
Big parties require big cakes and the sheet cakes at Costco fit the bill. Always in stock, these staples are not only great for last minute shopping, but tasty on the palate and easy on the pocketbook as well.
Artuso & Sons Bakery & Café
Thornwood
741-2251
www.artusoandsons.com
Find the best Italian American cakes, pastries and holiday items at this local family-owned institution that's been in business for 50 years. Birthday sheet cakes come in a variety of sizes serving 20 to 100 people. Kids love the customized artwork the bakes create to make each cake special.
Anna Artuso's Pastry Shop
Yonkers
776-1141
www.annaartusoinc.com
If you live further down county, don't despair you can still get delicious Italian American pastry and cakes at this shop. Yes, the owners are related and this shop has been making good eats for some 40 years. Children's cakes are a specialty here.
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The Classic Cupcake
Everywhere you look cupcakes are popping up all over. Whether it's the comfort value of these classic confections or the serving ease they offer, cupcakes are always a nice finish to a party. These local shops are dedicated to the art of all things cupcake.
Connie's Bakery & General Store
Mount Kisco
242-2014
www.connies.org
It's hard to say what's more delicious here, the cupcakes or the fact that 100 percent of the profits are donated to charity. Delicious buttercream frosting tops chocolate or vanilla cupcakes. The shop also carries gifts and artwork by local Hudson Valley artisans.
Crumbs Bake Shop
Stamford, Conn.
203-322-8100
www.crumbs.com
The cupcakes here are made by hand with fresh ingredients and are certified kosher. Classic styles like Red Velvet and Blackout fly off the shelves, not to mention the newer flavors such as Fluffernutter and Chocolate Covered Strawberry.
Flour & Sun Bakery
Pleasantville
495-3232
www.flourandsunbakery.com
Proclaiming itself as Westchester's first and only cupcake bakery, this little sunshine yellow shop prepares classic vanilla and chocolate cupcakes as well as daily specialties such as Rocky Road, S'Mores, Chocolate Cookie Dough and a Lemon Surprise. This confectionary oasis is a fun stop for children and adults. A small counter invites you to pause with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Family Outings
Museum for Families
Stepping Stones Museum for Children
Norwalk, Conn.
203-899-0606
www.steppingstonesmuseum.org
One of the top 50 children's museums in America, this whimsical museum offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for children ages 10 and under. There are four main galleries and a toddler's gallery where children can learn by doing. Kids love making a splash in "Waterscape" and playing with "ColorCoaster" the 27-foot kinetic sculpture by George Rhoads.
Maritime Aquarium
Norwalk, Conn.
203-852-0700
www.maritimeaquarium.org
Visit the Harbor Seal Pool and watch the seals being fed, explore the River Otter Habitat or spend some time at the touch-tank. There's something for all ages at this museum devoted to protecting and appreciating the Long Island Sound. IMAX movie theater on site. Parents say a visit here is educational as well as fun.
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Children's Museums
By far, parents voted for museums designed especially for children. Besides Stepping Stones (listed above) here are other children's museums that parents raved about.
Brooklyn Children's Museum
Brooklyn
718-735-4400
www.brooklynkids.org
Founded in 1899, this was the first museum dedicated to children. A recent expansion along with new programming and exhibits continues to keep the museum current. Check out the Totally Tots area designed just for the under 5 set. For those kids younger than 18 months stop by the Baby Hub. There's plenty of hands-on fun for older kids too.
Children's Museum of Manhattan
New York City
212-721-1234
www.cmom.org
Located on Manhattan's West Side, this five-floor interactive museum has exhibits that can keep the kids busy for hours. It can get crowded on the weekends, but the kids never seem to mind. Hands-on exhibits explore science, literature and the world.
Westchester Children's Museum
Rye
421-5050
www.discoverwcm.org
It may not be open yet, but many parents wrote in indicating they can't wait for the county to have its own children's museum. This grass-roots effort is getting very close to becoming a reality. They could still use your help. Contact the Museum Committee office and find out what you can do to create a space dedicated to being what they call "a learning laboratory."
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Family Theater (live)
Emelin
Mamaroneck
698-0098
www.emelin.org
This nonprofit organization offers a full range of performing arts programs including programs from top-notch children's theater companies. Affordable pricing and excellent programming bring families back season after season.
Riverspace
Nyack
845-348-0741
www.riverspace.org
This revitalized facility offers quality programming for the entire family. Find something for the children in the afternoon and then go back for nighttime adult entertainment including movies, music, shows and lectures.
Yorktown Stage
Yorktown Heights
962-0606
www.yorktownstage.org
Parents rave about the quality standards at this local house that produces top-notch musical theater the entire family can enjoy. They also run a popular theater camp and workshops. Get tickets early, shows sell out!
Amusement / Water Park
Rye Playland
Rye
813-7010 or 813-7000
www.ryeplayland.org
This government-owned and operated amusement park and entertainment center topped the list by far. Playland offers arcade games, 45 major rides and some 24 rides for youngsters in a separate area called Kiddyland. New this year: a price-saving one price admission that allows Westchester residents unlimited rides all day long plus admission to the beach, pool and mini-golf, $25 and only $5 more for non-residents.
Six Flags Great Adventure
New Jersey
732-928-1821
www.sixflags.com
It may not be in Westchester or Fairfield County but parents can't help telling us this is a favorite spot to get drenched and go responsibly wild. Rides vary, some are absolutely thrilling, others offer gentler family fun and then there's the more sedate, but still fun kiddie selection. Season pass available with discount coupons.
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Worth the Ride
Want to feel like you've gone on vacation, but still stay close to home? Parents report these fun parks offer just that.
Lake Compounce
Bristol, Conn.
860-583-3300
www.lakecompounce.com
They might be the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the country, but they also have three new rides at this family water park. Readers say they admire the cleanliness and family sprit here. There are rides for big and small kids, water rides for the entire family as well as entertainment, live shows and a 23-acre lake.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Allentown, Pa.
610-395-3724
www.dorneypark.com
There's something for everyone here, from water rides in Wildwater Kingdom to a replica steam-powered train excursion. You can try the mega roller coaster or the antique carousel. Live shows, games and food and souvenir vendors on site.
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Nature Center
Greenburgh Nature Center
Scarsdale
723-3470
www.greenburghnaturecenter.org
Families get back to nature at this 33-acre preserve featuring an animal museum, nature exhibits, discovery room, pond, orchard and gardens. Educational programs and family events are especially popular.
Muscoot Farm
Katonah
864-7282
www.muscootfarm.org
Owned and operated by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, this working farm is a haven for area families. Visitors can walk through the Dairy Barn, Milk House, Ice House, Blacksmith Shop and several other barns and buildings. Kids love seeing the animals up close in this intimate setting. Parents appreciate the weekend family programs, nice lawn for picnicking and the free admission and parking. Hayrides are popular here.
Stamford Museum and Nature Center
Stamford, Conn.
203-322-1646
www.stamfordmuseum.org
This museum and nature center has it all, including kid-friendly, hands-on exhibitions, a planetarium, Nature's Playground - a great outdoor playground, Hecksher Farm with live animals plus nature and hiking trails. Rain or shine there's always something to do here.
Shopping Spree
Shopping Mall
The Westchester
White Plains
683-8600
www.simon.com
Tons of stores for kids' clothing, from popular chain retailers to specialty lines, are found at this Simon Mall. Kids love to touch the sculptures and throw pennies in the dramatic fountain on the lower level bedecked with life-size horses. Parents appreciate the airy, inviting interior and clean bathrooms. Dine at the food court or in several sit-down restaurants.
Palisades Center
West Nyack
845-348-1000
www.palisadescenter.com
A mall and more located in nearby Rockland County appeals to a parent's desire for one-stop shopping and entertainment. There's a wide selection of children's clothing, toys, shoes and sports shops. The mall also hosts special events like the yearly visit of the Big Apple Circus.
Jefferson Valley Mall
Yorktown Heights
245-4200
www.simon.com
Plenty of children's stores attract young families to this mall that features 90 specialty shops including Build-A-Bear Workshop, The Disney Store, Gap Kids/babyGap, Gymboree, Stride Rite and Limited Too. Anchor stores are Sears and Macy's. Membership in the very popular Kidgits Club offers games, special events and goodies for kids as well as mall discounts. Free parking and a food court on site.
Maternity Store
Destination Maternity
White Plains
948-1279
www.destinationmaternity.com
Parents say this is truly a superstore for the mom-to-be. Here you'll find the popular maternity clothing lines Motherhood Maternity, A Pea in the Pod and Mimi Maternity as well as the Edamame Spa and Learning Center. The spa offers prenatal facials, massage and body treatments. The Learning Center holds prenatal and Mommy & Me yoga classes, as well as breastfeeding and health workshops.
Motherhood Maternity at Stamford Town Center
Stamford, Conn.
203-323-9410
www.shopstamfordtowncenter.com
Discriminating and economical mother's-to-be, flock to this shop in the Stamford Town Center for all things maternity, as well as their nursing needs. Motherhood Maternity is owned by the Destination Maternity company.
Cute Clothing Boutique for Infants
Fierson's Young Fashions
Bronxville
337-0475
Looking for a baby shower gift or some quality baby wear? You'll find it here at this local shop that's been serving the community for almost 50 years. A registry service is also available.
Cute Clothing Boutique for Children
Gingerbread Kidz
Scarsdale
472-1930
www.gingerbreadkidz.com
For one-of-a-kind outfits head on over to this shop that carries infant and girls and boys clothing from 2 to preteen for girls and size 16 for boys.
Littlejohn's
New Canaan, Conn.
203-966-2466
Youngsters and parents with discriminating tastes find dressy dresses and more at this reliable establishment. There's a mix of casual and formal wear at this fine clothing shop that carries items up to size 14.
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Reliable Clothing Chains
Boutiques are great, but readers also told us they rely on these shops for everyday basics.
Gap Kids
Mount Kisco, Jefferson Valley, Larchmont and Greenwich, Stamford, Conn. and other locations.
www.thegap.com
Dress your son in plaid shorts and super hero T-shirts and your daughter in their brightly colored Rainforest Collection and you won't have to wonder if they are out of style. Parents say the clothes wear well and the selection is reliable.
The Children's Place
White Plains, Nanuet, Yonkers and Danbury, Norwalk, Conn. and other locations.
www.childrensplace.com
The home of cool clothes for boys and girls, this store is known to run some super sales. Clothing for newborns to boys and girls size 14.
Big Bargain Spot
More readers than ever reported these consignment shops are their trusted source of children's clothing and more.
Affordables
Dobbs Ferry
693-3610
www.affordablechild.com
Friendly shop with low prices carrying children's clothes and gear, as well as maternity clothes, toys, books and more. Brand names can be found here in this well organized super shop. Layaway available.
The Preppy Turtle
Bedford Hills
666-8500
www.thepreppyturtle.com
Find a mix of gently or barely used and new items at this classy shop that provides kids clothing, accessories plus gifts and toys. Maternity clothing is also available.
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Children's Shoe Store
Shoes ‘N' More
Scarsdale, Rye and Greenwich, New Canaan, Conn.
www.shoesnmore.com
Looking for a name brand shoe, they most likely carry it here. Cole Hann, Juicy Couture, Marc Jacobs, Coach, Converse, Frye and more line the displays. Moms like the clothing they carry especially for her as well as the accessories and gift items.
Stride Rite
Yorktown Heights, White Plains and Danbury, Stamford, Conn. Various other locations.
www.striderite.com
Whether it's sneakers, sandals, dress or school shoes this 85-year-old company specializes in providing a proper fit, which is essential for growing feet. Extra wide widths are available. Stride Rite offers a durable and reliable product that earns high points with our readers.
Baby Gifts and Gear Store
Babies "R" Us
White Plains, Jefferson Valley, Yonkers and Danbury, Conn. Other locations.
www.babiesrus.com
From toys to cribs, this baby superstore carries everything you need to set up the nursery. Baby shower registry is available.
Buy Buy Baby
Scarsdale
725-9220
www.buybuybaby.com
One-stop shopping for baby needs, say our readers. Find a wide selection of car seats, strollers, furniture, clothing, bedding and toys. Many parents rely on the baby registry to avoid getting "doubles."
Cici Crib
Armonk
730-7242
www.cicicrib.com
This boutique for baby gifts and décor specializes in one-of-a-kind and personalized items. New and vintage items can create the perfect nursery. Check out the Design Blog on their Web site for their latest nursery design tips and ideas.
Toys and More
Toy Store (Independent)
A Nu Toy Store
Tarrytown
372-7144
www.anutoystore.com
Here's something different - a toy store that buys and sells new and used toys. All items in excellent condition and the prices are hard to beat. A Lego table and other kid friendly activities keep children occupied while you shop in peace.
The shop is run by a local mom who knows her toys.
Miller's
Mamaroneck
698-5070
www.millerstoys.com
This independent toy store has been serving its loyal public since 1908. There's a wide selection of fine toys, games and crafts for every age. There's a baby department as well as a bike shop and outdoor play sets.
Penny Auntie 5 & 10
Chappaqua
238-3242
www.pennyauntie.com
Need a quick birthday gift, a camp care package or great party favors? This shop does it all and offers free gift-wrapping as well. From the tried and true to the trendiest toys and gifts, you'll find it all here in this friendly, welcoming shop.
Educational Supply Store
Educational Warehouse
White Plains, Spring Valley and Norwalk, Conn.
682-2223; 845-426-2223; 203-846-2220; 203-748-7200
www.educationalwarehouse.com
This privately-held, family-run company was started by two former New York City school teachers. The shop specializes in "products that allow children to learn through play." There's also a wide range of classroom and arts and crafts supplies. Complimentary gift-wrapping available.
Lakeshore Learning
Scarsdale
472-1820
www.lakeshorelearning.com
Find all your arts and crafts needs as well as back to school items here. Teachers like the wide selection. Free weekend arts and crafts sessions for kids can break up a rainy day.
Learning Express
Bedford, Baldwin Place, Scarsdale
234-6917; 621-0012; 723-3700
www.learningexpress.com
These friendly franchises offer educational and developmental toys that encourage curiosity, creativity and learning through play. Something for every age group from baby toys to puzzles, spy stuff to ride-ons and stuffed animals.
Teacher-Parent Store
Danbury, Conn.
203-794-0577
www.teachingplanet.com
This is a local place for back to school supplies and other educational items and equipment. Parents and teachers appreciate their quality workbooks and wooden puzzles. It's a small shop that carries a nice quality selection. Online ordering is available.
Children's Bookstore
Anderson's Book Shop
Larchmont
834-6900
This quaint, cozy, old-fashioned bookstore is a favorite for local parents. Our readers remarked about their good children's selection and helpful staff.
Diane's Books of Greenwich
Greenwich, Conn.
203-869-1515
www.dianesbooks.com
Billed as a family bookstore, this gem of a shop has a huge selection of children's items. If you like bookstores, you'll want to spend the day here. Author visits, personalized attention and quality gift-wrapping.
The Orange Elephant
Ridgefield, Conn.
203-431-7733
www.orangeelephantbooks.com
A new shop that offers children's books as well as educational games and toys. More than a bookstore, they also offer storytimes, kid-friendly events and themed birthday parties.
The Voracious Reader
Larchmont
630-4581
www.thevoraciousreader.com
This bookstore specializes in children's and teen books. The toddler storytime is popular here as well as the Saturday Morning Stories for children ages 4 and 5. Special events and meet the author sessions held regularly.
Children's Furniture Store
Bellini Baby & Teen Furniture
Scarsdale and Stamford, Conn.
472-7336; 203-703-2084
www.bellini.com
Here you'll find practical and beautiful baby and teen furniture noted for its fine craftsmanship. They carry a variety of items to outfit a nursery or children's bedroom.
Crib & Teen City Expo
Hartsdale
686-3331
www.cribandteencityonline.com
Readers tell us they regularly use this specialty store to purchase baby and children's furniture. They carry a wide variety of styles and specialize in cribs.
Country Willow Kids
Bedford Hills
241-7000
www.countrywillow.com
Maximize the use and functionality of your child's room with creative furniture from this local shop. There's a variety of bed options including trundle, trunk, canopy and even loft beds. Their storage, desk and entertainment solutions are ideal for growing families.
I Luv My Kids
Cortlandt Manor
526-6111
www.Iluvmykids.com
This family-owned business offers everything from strollers and car seats to furniture and breast pumps. Readers say their prices are competitive. A gift registry service is available.
Looking Good
Children's Haircut
Snip-its
Cortlandt/Mohegan Lake
528-2410
Various other locations
www.snipits.com
Specializing in kid's haircuts and birthday parties, this franchise was started by a mom who was desperately seeking a kid-friendly salon for her children. She couldn't find one so she spent two years researching, designing and then opening one up.
Sharkey's Cuts for Kids
Larchmont and Cos Cob, Conn.
www.sharkeyscutsforkids.com
Kids can have their hair cut while they sit in a car, jeep or motorcycle. Older kids like watching their favorite programs while they get their haircut. Salon Glamour Girl parties are popular. First hair cuts given the royal treatment.
Happy Kids Haircuts
Dobbs Ferry and Scarsdale
693-0860; 725-2044
www.westchestershops.com
Kids feel special sitting in a plane, train or fire truck as they get their locks cut. Happy Kids uses hair products specially designed for children. They also offer custom braiding and up-dos for special occasions. Children can watch a video or the overhead circus train, making the outing so much more pleasant for mom and dad.
Family Fitness Center
Club Fit
Jefferson Valley and Briarcliff
245-4040; 762-3444
www.clubfit.com
There's something for every member of the family at this local fitness center. The nursery takes children ages 3 months and up with a separate area dedicated to infants and another for toddlers. An Energy Center for youngsters where supervised sports and games keep children active. Swimming lessons are popular too.
Yoga Haven
Tuckahoe
337-1437
www.yogahaven.com
The entire family can work out at this popular yoga studio. Classes include beginning and advanced levels as well as pre- and postnatal and classes for kids and teens. Mommy & Me Yoga for mothers and babies ages 1 month to 1 year is a great place to meet other like-minded moms. Family workshops are also available.
YMCA
New Rochelle, White Plains, Tarrytown and Greenwich, Conn. Other various locations.
632-1818; 949-8030; 631-4807; 203-869-1630
www.ymca.net
The YMCA is an affordable community center for all ages. Families flock to these locations for health and fitness and sports programming and swim lessons. Some locations offer drop-in babysitting.
Jean Sheff is editor of Westchester Family.
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