22 Farm Games & Farm Activities for Kids

by Abigail MatsumotoJuly 11, 2023

Whether your kid has Old MacDonald aspirations or wants a big red barn to call her own, a farm-theme party could be just what the tractor ordered. To get you started, we’ve harvested the very best farm games to enjoy pre- or post-birthday cake. These farm games, crafts, farm activities for preschoolers, and pretend play projects are perfect for a farm birthday party.

If you need more birthday party ideas, check out our favorite outdoor birthday party ideas, 2024’s most popular birthday party themes, and the best birthday desserts that aren’t cake.

Our Favorite Farm Games and Farm Activities for Preschoolers

1. Chickapig

This adorable award-winning game is perfect for older siblings or friends at a farm-themed party. The chicken-pig hybrids attempt to reach their goals while maneuvering around hay bales, cows, and more!

Buy it here, $19

2. Cowboy Hat Ring Toss

little boy in a cowboy hat playing farm games — Shutterstock

Gather 'yer cowpokes for a fun ring toss with a farm-themed angle. Put two or three hula hoops on the ground and line your party guest up behind them. Give the person at the front of the line a cowboy hat and have her attempt to land the hat in each of the hoops. Whoever gets their hat in the most rings wins!

3. Farmer, May I

Along the same lines as Mother, May I, the farmer will call out big steps, little steps, duck waddles, or bunny hops. Each player then has to ask "Farmer, may I?" in order to move forward. If players forget to ask, they're sent to the starting line. The first player to reach the farmer becomes the new farmer!

4. Bob for Apples

bobbing for apples is a fun farm game for kids — iStock

A classic game that includes fall's favorite orchard fruit, bobbing for apples is something even the tiniest farmer can try. Fill a bucket full of water, drop in the apples and let loose your hungry party people! You can opt to see who gets the apple first for a prize or just let the kids have fun.

5. Duck, Duck, Goose!

Duck, duck, goose is good farm game for a kids' birthday party — iStock

This classic game is perfect for a farm-themed party. Set the kids in a circle, and have one start by placing her hand on top of each player, saying "Duck, duck, duck," and when she's ready, say "Goose!" The person whose head she touched will get up and chase her. If she makes it back to the empty spot, she's safe. If not, she's in the mush pot. Continue on. See our other favorite classic birthday games by clicking here.

6. Snorting Contest

little girl making a pig nose while playing a farm game — iStock

Gather all your guests and have each one take a turn making their best pig snort. Then, the panel of judges (mom and dad!) can hand out awards in all sorts of different categories: silliest snort, loudest snort, sweetest snort, funniest snort, loudest, least like a pig, and more.

7. Read Farm Books

reading farm books is a fun idea for a farm-themed birthday party — iStock

There are dozens of fun farm-themed books for kids that you can choose to read to your guest. We love Margaret Wise Brown's classic Big Red Barn and Little Red Hen.

8. Animal Round-Up

boys playing farm games for kids — iStock

Here's where all those plastic farm animals you're constantly stepping over will come in handy. Spread hay on an old sheet, in a wagon, or even in the yard. Give each party guest a container and tell them the farm stock has gotten out and needs to be "corralled." Then let them sort, search and gather to their heart's content.

9. Milk the Cow

You could say this idea from Cupcake Wishes & Birthday Dreams is udderly unique. All you need to teach the littles how to milk a cow is cardboard, some bovine-drawing skills, and a latex glove.

10. Construct a Tractor

Who knew getting a kid-sized John Deere was as easy as hoarding cardboard? We love the creativity of this idea from The Party Wall—and that you can turn this into a group art project for the whole barnyard gang.

11. Make Your Own Small Farm World

a farm sensory bin is a fun farm game for birthday parties — Crayon Box Chronicles

Have cereal boxes and popsicle sticks stashed away somewhere? Good, because Crayon Box Chronicles is ready to tell you how to use them to create a farm world that's just the right size for curious kids. It's the perfect entertainment for sensory and imaginative play.

12. Cow Ring Toss

cow ring toss is a fun farm game for a birthday party — Adventures in Craftiness

It's easy to customize the classic ring toss game for a farm-themed affair. Made with soda bottles and felt (which you can opt to glue instead of sewing), this is a great activity for small spaces and younger kids. See more at Adventures in Craftiness.

13. Paint Filled Egg Art

If you're okay with the party getting messy, consider making a few paint-filled eggs. Just fill up eggshells with paint and let 'em fly, or buy canvases and let the kids create splatter art. Get the full instructions over at Vanessa Crafts.

14. Simple Sheep Craft

A sheep craft, a fun farm game — No Time for Flashcards

How cute is this little sheep craft from No Time for Flash Cards? There's no sheering involved with this farm art—just glue, cotton balls, markers, paper, and imagination.

15. Pin the Tail on the Pig

Pin the Tail on the Pig is a fun farm game — Amazon

Swap out your donkey for a pig, a horse, a sheep, or any other farm animal to bring a fun twist to this classic birthday game. We especially like the idea of making it a Minecraft-themed game.

Buy the game at Amazon, $16.

16. Farm Animal Game with Free Printable

The preschooler crowd will have a blast with this DIY farm animal game from Life Over C's. It's educational, customizable, and even comes with a free printable.

17. Farmers Market Stand

It's another clever cardboard idea, this time from ikat bag. If you've ever visited your local farmers market with your family, you've probably talked about where all the delicious food comes from. For a farm party full of imagination, why not build your own market stand and watch the pretend play unfold?

18. Tractor Pull

Tractors on your mark, get set, go! When it comes to a farm-themed extravaganza, here's how to add a little something for the little speedster in your life. Just think of it as racing, tractor-style. Head to Life with the Clines for more.

19. Harvest Game

Thanks to The Little Sewing Shop, there's an easy and fun way to let your little farmers use up some energy. The idea is to run around and gather scattered eggs, veggies, and fruit (bonus points if you already have toy food!) and then sort them into baskets.

20. Pig Painting

Set out enough materials so each kid can paint their own pig! It's very easy, and you probably already have everything you need. We love the easy tutorial from Oh Creative Day.

21. Wheelbarrow Races

kids having a wheelbarrow race, which is a fun farm game — iStock

Divide your guests into two groups. Then, have one person be the "wheelbarrow" while another teammate "drives" the wheelbarrow across the finish line. The first team to get all their "wheelbarrows" across the finish line wins this fun farm game!

22. Weaving Craft

Weaving can be fun for older kids, and we love this simple weaving party kit spotted over at The Creativity Patch. Not only will it keep your guests busy, but they'll be able to take home their work as well!

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

11 Water Games That’ll Cool Everyone Off This Summer

by Allison SutcliffeJune 5, 2023

You haven’t lived until you’ve played squirt gun soccer

We all know those summer days that are too hot and all you want is to jump through a sprinkler. With these water games, your family will have the chance to cool down while having a blast! Below, you’ll find our favorite water balloon games and water games for kids that will keep your family in cool-down mode all season long.

A note about water balloons: they are fun as can be, but please be sure to clean up your little pieces: they can be choking hazards for little birds. Have a few prizes as an incentive to get kids in on a quick clean-up.

1. Water Balloon Basketball

This easy water game is a slam dunk for any age because all kiddos need to do is point and shoot a squishy water balloon into a larger-than-regulation-sized hoop. To get the game started, have them hold a hula-hoop tummy level, the way you carry a laundry basket. Then line up kids for a turn to score two points. After each tiny baller sinks a splat-worthy shot, trade out the positions so everyone gets a turn. They shoot, they score on this one!

2. Water Balloon Towel Toss

Bust out beach towels for this easy-to-run toss water balloon game that’s a little like tennis, but without the net or the racquets. Kiddos play in teams of four, where each pair holds a beach towel gently between them, with a little bit of slack. The goal? To toss the balloon back and forth between two blankets without letting it drop… as many times as you can. The team with the most consecutive bounces (we’re betting they’ll be the driest of the bunch too!) wins!

3. Sponge Ball Relay

Get the energy out of your kiddos with a simple sponge ball relay race. Divide your group into two teams, then set up two empty buckets on one end of the yard, one for each team. Place another two buckets, full of water and sopping wet sponge balls, on the opposite end. When the whistle blows, one player from each team grabs a soaked sponge, runs it lickety-split to the empty bucket, and wrings out as much water as he or she can before running back to tag the next player. It’s easy to play this one with a time limit—the team with the fullest bucket wins! Or, until one team’s bucket spills over in victory.

4. Water Balloon Piñata

String up an array of colorful water balloons in the yard (over a tree, from the swing set) to serve as the piñata. Line up the Littles, and let each one take a swing in turn, with a plastic bat, or even a wrapping paper tube, in the hopes of hitting the delicate target, and letting loose the wild waterfall. Blindfolded or not, this is one guaranteed way to get wet!

5. Water Balloon Pop!

water balloons for water games for kids — Gabriel Alenius via Unsplash

The kids will clock plenty of giggle mileage when they play this fast-paced water game. Break your group into two teams, each with a heaping bucket of fully-loaded water balloons. When you say go, one member from each team grabs a balloon, races down the yard, and tries to pop it with his or her body (think stomping, sitting, or even laying on it!). Guarantee a dousing by having the kids break balloons on a chair, or, let the ground take the brunt of the splash. Once the balloon is popped, it’s back to the start to tag the next kiddo. On your mark, get set, and go

6. Keep Your Eye on the Balloon

For this game, think carnival shooting range—floating balloons being used as target practice. For the set up you’ll need lots of helium balloons and weights that are strong enough to hold the balloons in place when they take direct hits. Spread the targets out on the playing field. Three rows—each a different height and different distance from the shooting line—work well. Then, have kidlets step right up and take their best shot; each time they get a hit, they get a prize. Bullseye!

7. Squirt Gun Soccer

You should probably start stockpiling super soakers for this one. Little athletes will have a blast with this no-kick version of soccer that trades feet for squirt guns, and traditional soccer balls for a lighter-than-air beach ball. To start this wannabe match, break the group into two teams, and arm each player with a fully loaded squirt gun. They’ll use the stream to move the ball around the field as they try to score (or block) a goal. Set up sports cones at either end of the field so they know where to aim, and then it’s time to play. Go, team!

8. DIY Soakers

Just say no to broken water balloon bits littering the yard; use sponge balls instead! Just as throwable, just as drench-able, this soft alternative won’t leave behind a colorful mess for you to pick up. It’s Overflowing has the information you need in order to make your own colorful soakers.

9. Cup Races

Think NCAA tourney when you whip out cup races at the party. All the tiny kiddos will get a chance to work their way through the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight for a shot at the big time—the Final Four—as they compete head-to-head, racing plastic cups down a string, using squirt guns. Check out the setup and racing details at All for the Boys.

10. Sponge Ball Toss

Got buckets? Then you’ve got all you need for some sponge ball toss. Line the kidlets up facing each other a couple of feet apart, in two straight lines, Madeline style. One holds a bucket, the other a sopping wet sponge ball. The object? Toss the sponge ball into the bucket. The catch? With each successful toss, the bucket holder takes a step back. Once the player misses the bucket, it’s time to switch places. The prize? Soaking in the fun of it all.

11. Kiddie Pool Toe Diving

Put that tiny pool to good use with this water game. Fill it with trinkets, small toys, and pool toys. Then, set a time limit for each player. They have that amount of time to get as many items out of the pool with their toes as possible. The player with the most items at the end of the round wins. Want an adult version of this water game? Use a blindfold.

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

20 Cheap (or Free!) Sidewalk Games to Keep the Kids Busy

by Kate LowethMay 4, 2023

Find all the fun you need in your own front yard

Keep this list in your back pocket for the dreaded day when the “I’m bored” sentiments take over your otherwise inquisitive child. These sidewalk games will get the kids outside and having fun as they include sidewalk chalk games, things to do with bubbles, new ways to use hula hoops, and more. Your front yard has never seen this much action, we are sure of it!

1. Set up your hopscotch. This one will bring you back to your school days. Using painter's tape or chalk, set up hopscotch and get ready to play!

2. Paint a pet rock. Paint and rocks are two ingredients that are easy to come by for outside activity. When your little artist is done decorating, follow our pet rock care guide how-to for her new pet and set up your rock crew in the front yard for all passersby to see.

3. Learn to skateboard. This retro sport is back in style and we love that. Do a little research on the best-sized skateboard for your little groms and make sure you get them all decked out in safety gear before you build those driveway ramps.

4. Play with hula hoops. Who says you have to have moves like Jagger to have fun with a hula hoop? Check out these boredom-busting hula hoop games by Learn Play Imagine for inspiration—you’ll be amazed at the creative new ways you can play with one of the oldest toys imaginable.

5. Inspire your neighbors with sidewalk chalk. Writing messages like "Good job!" and "I'm proud of you!" will bring a smile to your neighbors' faces as they walk by your house.

6. Roll it out with a tricycle race. Ready, set, go! Riding bikes is an energy-burning sidewalk game for kids. From obstacle course to tag team follow our how-to on how to change up the track.

7. Get out the jump ropes. When it comes to the old-school fun that will leave you breathless—from both giggles and activity—there’s nothing that outdoes a round of jump rope. Check out these six games that work for every age and skill level to jog your memory of just how it’s done.

8. Draw chalk art photo props. Is there a kid out there who doesn’t like seeing themselves in a silly photo? With chalk, you can create any backdrop you wish, and even draw your kids right into the pictures. Fourth of July? Add a top hat and walking cane and Sam becomes Uncle Sam!

9. Make a sidewalk chalk obstacle course. This is great for gross motor skills and you may even see the mail carrier giving it a try when you add a sidewalk chalk obstacle course in front of your house. Hands On As We Grow has great step-by-step instructions on how to set it up.

10. Get out the roller skates. These are totally making a comeback this summer and we are pulling out our rainbow headbands for it. Order your little ones some roller skates and the safety gear to go along with them and teach them how to shoot the duck!

11. Wash a car. This sidewalk activity is a win-win for everyone. Get out the bubbles and spray hose and get the minivan all shined up. Kids can even bring out their own toy trucks to join in on the fun.

12. Make ice paint. We all love food on a stick, so why wouldn’t we adore paint on a stick, too? Just mix a little water with non-toxic paint and stick it in the freezer, either in solo cups or ice cube containers. Add a popsicle stick halfway through freezing, then pop the cubes out and you’re ready to go! This is a great activity for the driveway on a hot day.

13. Have a water balloon fight. When the temperatures soar, so will the spirits if you’ve got a bag of water balloons handy. No balloons? No problem. Just turn the hose on and play water tag with the hose and give your front yard plants a drink.

little girl playing sidewalk games with bubbles — Giu Vincente via Unsplash

14. Make bubbles. Whether you make your own bubbles or grab a giant bottle from the grocery store, bubble activities are super fun to do on the driveway. Check out this bubble maker that will blow the bubble for you (and keep you from passing out).

15. Play tetherball. The game you loved to play in elementary school is still just as fun today. Get a kit and set it up for hours of sidewalk games with the neighborhood.

16. Use the windows as a creative space. Washing windows just got a lot more creative. Give your kids brushes and spray bottles, and watch them paint, clear, and paint again.

17. Set up the basketball hoop. Whether you opt for one installed above your garage or a free-standing hoop for the shorties, there are tons of fun basketball games that will get the kids moving. Check out this list from active.com that includes tons of ideas beyond HORSE.

18. Paint with squirt guns. This is a fun way to use those old squirt guns you have around the house. Fill them up with chalk paint to paint the sidewalk or check out this idea from Fireflies + Mud Pies for making art that you can hang up on your fridge.

19. Play boxball. This classic sidewalk game is a little bit like ping pong, using a large rubber ball. Slap the ball back and forth between sidewalk squares; the first person to reach 21 is the winner! See the rules here.

20. Create a scavenger hunt. You can make this easy or hard based on what you have in your yard. But no matter what, your kids will love searching!

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

The Best Family Fitness Gear to Keep You and the Crew Moving This Spring

by Kate CartiaApril 5, 2023

Now that the brutal winter chill is gone, we’re excited about the prospect of getting up and getting moving this spring. Our all-star lineup of our favorite family fitness picks is your go-to guide for getting started. Whether you’re an experienced exercise enthusiast or just starting to find your stride, we have some of the best family fitness gear for you and the crew to keep you going all season!

flat lay of suspension fitness training system — DICK'S Sporting Goods

TRX FIT Suspension Trainer

$100 BUY NOW

We're really big fans of products that do it all, and the TRX FIT Suspension Trainer is one of them! This total-body fitness system relies on your body weight for resistance and allows you to focus on strength training, cardio, yoga, HIIT, pilates, and more. It comes with two anchoring options, too, so you can take your workout anywhere!

Joovy Zoom 360 Jogging Stroller

$340 BUY NOW

Having a little one doesn't have to mean you have to give up your favorite walks or runs! This jogging stroller offers a suspension designed for any terrain and a one-hand folding frame, so you can get out there with less fuss. Make sure to check out the great ratings, too!

stack of black interlocking foam gym floor tiles — Target

Interlocking Gym Floor Mat Tiles

$41 BUY NOW

If you can't make it to the gym, make the gym come to you! This set of interlocking puzzle-style floor tiles covers up to 24 square feet of space and can be customized into any shape to fit your space, allowing all your family fitness gear to stay in one place.

feet on balancing board — Uncommon Goods

Standing Desk Balancing Board

$170 BUY NOW

Upgrade your standing desk game with this Standing Desk Balance Board! With adjustable difficulty and a design that's easy on all floors, this is an awesome way to break up your day and keep moving!

Gonge Riverstones

$65 BUY NOW

While you're getting your balance on at your desk, get your kiddos hopping with these Gonge Riverstones! These non-slip "stones" are fantastic for honing balance and fine motor skills, and they'll love going from a simple jump pattern to more advanced scrabbled patterns.

Smart Weighted Fitness Hoop

$40 BUY NOW

Super fun, and, quite frankly, feels pretty darn good, this weighted hula hoop system is perfect if you're looking for a less-intense, low-impact workout that doesn’t require a ton of equipment!

Pilates Bar Kit

$60 BUY NOW

Everything you need for your Pilates practice in one kit! It's a full gym set and fully adjustable so it can be used by the family.

Exercise Dice

$10 BUY NOW

The best way to get the whole fam moving? Make it fun! These fitness dice shake up the usual routine and make it easy to get everyone's blood pumping.

Home Gym Exercise Mat

$95 BUY NOW

Creating a designated workout space doesn't have to mean adding on a room to your house! Throw down this protective mat and set up your home gym in any corner! It also comes in 3 colors.

MoveActive Grip Socks

$16 BUY NOW

Stay balanced with grippy socks from MoveActive! They come in a bunch of colors and styles so everything from yoga to Pilates and weight training feels a lot more secure!

EASYFEET Athletic Insoles

$40 BUY NOW

Shoes not offering enough support? Super-charge them with high-grade shock absorption with gel forefoot and heel pads enhance cushioning. These athletic insoles offer a foam layer that provides comfort from heel to toe. The velvety breathable cover provides foot comfort, too!

FORME Fitness Mirror

$2500 BUY NOW

Bring the trainer into your home with the award-winning FORME Fitness Mirror! The modular fitness mirror provides a host of classes such as boxing, meditation, yoga, HIIT plus live 1:1 personal training with a trainer who tracks performance from week to week and provides on-the-spot feedback for improving technique and overall fitness.

Sweat Shaper

$40

Although this one definitely isn't for kiddos, the Sweat Shaper is an easy way to add an extra layer to your workouts!

BUY NOW

FITDECK

$16 BUY NOW

Did we mention how much we love fitness games? Fitdeck offers 50 different exercise cards that don't require equipment and are easy for kiddos to do!

Born Toys Pretend Play Gym Set

$30 BUY NOW

For your little-littles, this play gym is perfect for getting them used to moving with the whole family, without them playing with equipment that could be dangerous.

Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course

$90 BUY NOW

They've seen the show; now give your kiddos the excitement of becoming a real Ninja Warrior thanks to this complete set!

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Ready to head back to the theater? There are lots of live kids shows in NYC ready to entertain with family-friendly fare. Broadway favorites like Wicked and The Lion King are going strong, puppet shows are playing, and new takes on kid classics are taking to the stage. Plus: The Story Pirates, Dogman and so many bubbles. (A gazillion, in fact.) For more spring fun, check out our Must-Do in NYC for the season, the new free and fun events around town and where to head out on a spring day trip when it’s time for an adventure. (And if you’re headed to a show, don’t forget to check the theater’s vaccine and mask requirements, as policies vary.)

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

For a new take on a children’s classic, check out this show at 92Y. The setup: It’s the first day at Camp Yomi and Goldilocks finds herself in quite a porridge with three of the nicest tap-dancing bears you could ever hope to meet. It’s part of the Theater for Young Audiences series, which features modern shows for families with kids ages 2-11. Masks must be worn by all 2 ages and older and proof of vaccination is required.

Tickets: $20
May 1 & May 8, 11:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Buttenweiser Hall
92Y
1395 Lexington Ave.
Upper East Side
212-415-5500
Online: 92y.org

Actors in Barber of Seville for kids — New York City Opera

The Barber of Seville

New York City Opera presents a family-friendly version of The Barber of Seville. Gioachino Rossini’s sparkling music animates the hijinks of Figaro, opera’s most famous barber. The performance is 75 minutes, sung in Italian, and is appropriate for all ages. New York City Opera’s Opera for Kids! program is a popular series of hour-long, family-friendly adaptations of classic operas narrated by General Director Michael Capasso. These performances, followed by a Q&A with the cast, have given thousands of elementary and preschool-aged children their first taste of live opera.

Sun., May 8, 10 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Theater at St. Jean’s
150 E. 76th St.
Upper East Side NYC
Online: nycopera.com

New Victory Theater Online & In-Person

One of the premier producers of children’s theater in New York City, the New Victory Theater is currently offering Stono from Step Afrika! on demand for $15 through May 22. A story of resistance, resilience and reclamation, Stono fills the screen with music and dance to honor the artistry and activism borne out of the body as a percussive instrument. From traditions of the ring shout to contemporary stepping, Step Afrika! reveals the hidden histories and resounding rhythms that transformed America.

From June 4-26 the theater will present Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster, featuring a story by children’s author Mo Willems. Leonardo tries so hard to be scary. But… he just isn’t. When he searches far and wide for a friend to frighten, he discovers Sam, who is scared of anything and everything! With puppets, projections and live music, this performance will surprise you with its cinema-sized story about fright, feelings and friendship. It’s recommended for kids ages 4-7. Tickets are $25.

New Victory Theater
209 W. 42nd St.
Times Square
646-223-3010
Online: newvictory.org

CityParks Puppetmobile

CityParks PuppetMobile’s Little Red’s Hood

The CityParks PuppetMobile is the oldest continually operating company of its kind in the country and you can enjoy its shows for free. From May to October, you can catch an updated version of Little Red Riding Hood, “Little Red’s Hood.” (She’s a city dweller who is obsessed with her smartphone.) Performances are held in parks in every borough, in English, Spanish and Mandarin.

See when the Puppetmobile will be in a park near you!

Omnnium circus performers — Omnium Circus

“I’Mpossible” From Omnium Circus

The Omnium Circus is part of the Forward Festival of the Arts, the Queens Theatre’s national festival highlighting the artistry of Deaf/Disabled performers. Its diverse cast from all over the globe is multitalented, multi-racial and multi-abled. The show “I’Mpossible,” tells the story of a young boy who dreams of joining the circus. Join Johny as he enters a world of beautiful aerial artistry, flying hula hoops, the daring art of free-standing ladder, Cyr wheel, contortion, and more. Along the way, he encounters the antics of the King Charles Unicycle basketball troupe and the hilarious comedy of Rob and Miss Jane.

Tickets: $25 – $35
Sat., May 14, 2 & 8 p.m.
14 United Nations Ave S.
The Claire Shulman Theater at Queens Theatre
718-760-0064
Online: queenstheatre.org

A man in a wheelchair dancing with a woman — Neil Dent

Full Radius Dance

Full Radius Dance, a professional physically integrated modern dance company based in Atlanta, GA, is also performing as part of the Queens Theatre’s Forward Festival of the Arts. During Alice, Peter, and Dorothy, the company examines the fantasy novels Alice in Wonderland, Peter and Wendy, and The Wizard of Oz through a disability-centric lens, asking, “How does disability inform the authors’ work? What rhetoric in the novels minimalizes and/or normalizes the visual or invisible mark of disability?” In Undercurrents, dancers flow on and off the stage in currents of movement, pulling the dance in unexpected directions. Partnerships are created and washed away, subtle shifts create dramatic effects, and hidden feelings and impulses run below the surface.

Tickets: $25
Sun., May 15, 3 p.m.
14 United Nations Ave S.
The Claire Shulman Theater at Queens Theatre
718-760-0064
Online: queenstheatre.org

The Story Pirates: Cats Sit On You

Love The Story Pirates? (Who doesn’t?) Now’s your chance to see The Story Pirates live on stage, featuring Lee and Peter from the popular Story Pirates Podcast. If you’ve never seen them live, you’ll be amazed (and very entertained) as the Pirates bring ideas suggested by kids in the audience to life on the spot with inspired improvisation. Plus: fun and silly songs. This performance is a benefit for Story Pirates Changemakers, The Story Pirates’ non-profit arm that is committed to making Story Pirates programs accessible to under-resourced kids and families. It’s a win-win all around.

Tickets: General admission/$35; VIP tickets/$100 (VIP Tickets include seating in priority section and a post-show meet and greet on stage with the cast.)
Sun., May 15, 5 p.m.
The Manhattan Center’s Grand Ballroom
311 West 34th St.
Midtown West
Online: one.bidpal.net

Sesame Street Live performance — Feld Entertainment

Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party!

If you missed the Sesame Street gang at MSG this spring, take heart. Those who need to see Elmo and crew can head to the UBS Area in Belmont Park, NY. This is an all-new, interactive show that unfolds on one of the world’s most famous streets at the funniest, furriest party in the neighborhood. Learn new songs and sing along to familiar favorites with Oscar and Cookie Monster; build a snowman with Elmo; flap your wings with Big Bird; marvel at Abby’s magic; be amazed when Super Grover flies, and move to the rhythm with Rosita. You can see it a few times throughout the day, with doors opening at 9:30 a.m. for the earliest!

May 14 & 15, multiple showtimes
Tickets: $25 and up
UBS Arena
2150 Hempstead Tpke.
Belmont Park, NY
Online: ticketmaster.com

Dog Man: The Musical

Dog Man: The Musical, based on the popular book series by Dav Pilkey (who also created the beloved character Captain Underpants) is a new production that follows the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, he must save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings. It’s an epic musical adventure with lots of laughs and lots of heart. Recommended for ages 6-10.

Tickets: $15; $55/four tickets
Sun., May 29, 1 & 3 p.m.
Queens Theatre
14 United Nations Ave. South
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
718-760-0064
Online: queenstheatre.org

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

The George Balanchine ballet that opened the New York City Ballet’s first season in 1964 returns to close the 2022 season. Shakespeare’s tale of love and romance, forest fairies, intrigue and mischief is set to Felix Mendelssohn’s score. The final performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Sunday, May 29 at 3 p.m. will also be the farewell performance for Principal Dancer Amar Ramasar, who joined he ballet in 2001.

Tickets: $38-$205
May 21-29
David H. Koch Theater
Lincoln Center
Upper West Side
1-877-
Online: nycballet.com

The Gazillion Bubble Show

The Gazillion Bubble Show is back at New World Stages. The hour-long bubble spectacle features bubble magic, bubble sculptures, lasers, lighting effects and more. You may even find yourself in a giant bubble (if you’re lucky).

Tickets: $59-$100
New World Stages
Stage 2
340 W. 50th St.
Midtown
212-239-6200
Online: gazillionbubbleshow.com

Wicked

Wicked has been rocking it at the Gershwin Theatre since 2003, and you can still drop into Oz today. The musical tells the tale of what happened before Dorothy Gale arrived, when Glinda the “good” witch and Elphaba (AKA the green-skinned Wicked Witch of the West) were first rivals, and then friends. You get big show-stopping numbers, incredible costumes and sets, and a story about how relationships, romantic and otherwise, are often complicated. (Plus, for fans of the original movie, some cool “origin stories.”) The show is recommended for ages eight and up, and no one under five is admitted. It runs two hours and 45 minutes with a 15-minute intermission. (Added bonus: the Gershwin Theatre is filled with Broadway memorabilia and photos of the many, many stage legends who have performed there over the decades.)

Tickets: $89 and up
Ongoing
222 W. 51st St.
Times Square
212-586-6510
Online: wickedthemusical.com

The Lion King

Based on the 1994 Disney movie, The Lion King is another longtime Broadway favorite. (It opened in 1997 and more than 100 million people have seen the show.) There’s a reason: between Julie Taymor’s incredible vision, transforming performers into the animals of Africa’s grassy plains and Elton John’s stirring music, it’s a one-of-a-kind spectacle. Insider tip: for maximum “wow” factor, grab an aisle seat to get close-up views of performers entering the theater in all their glory. The Lion King is recommended for kids ages six and up; no children under two are admitted and all audience members must have a ticket. It runs two hours and 30 minutes.

Tickets: $109 and up
Minskoff Theatre
200 W. 45th St.
866-870-2717
Online: lionking.com

Our Favorite Farm Games and Farm Activities for Preschoolers

1. Chickapig

2. Cowboy Hat Ring Toss

3. Farmer, May I

4. Bob for Apples

5. Duck, Duck, Goose!

6. Snorting Contest

7. Read Farm Books

8. Animal Round-Up

9. Milk the Cow

10. Construct a Tractor

11. Make Your Own Small Farm World

12. Cow Ring Toss

13. Paint Filled Egg Art

14. Simple Sheep Craft

15. Pin the Tail on the Pig

16. Farm Animal Game with Free Printable

17. Farmers Market Stand

18. Tractor Pull

19. Harvest Game

20. Pig Painting

21. Wheelbarrow Races

22. Weaving Craft

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1. Water Balloon Basketball

2. Water Balloon Towel Toss

3. Sponge Ball Relay

4. Water Balloon Piñata

5. Water Balloon Pop!

6. Keep Your Eye on the Balloon

7. Squirt Gun Soccer

8. DIY Soakers

9. Cup Races

10. Sponge Ball Toss

11. Kiddie Pool Toe Diving

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Find all the fun you need in your own front yard

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TRX FIT Suspension Trainer

Joovy Zoom 360 Jogging Stroller

Interlocking Gym Floor Mat Tiles

Standing Desk Balancing Board

Gonge Riverstones

Smart Weighted Fitness Hoop

Pilates Bar Kit

Exercise Dice

Home Gym Exercise Mat

MoveActive Grip Socks

EASYFEET Athletic Insoles

FORME Fitness Mirror

Sweat Shaper

FITDECK

Born Toys Pretend Play Gym Set

Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course

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1. Learning Letters DIY Obstacle Course

2. All-Star Obstacle Course

3. Circus Obstacle Course

4. Hot Lava Obstacle Course

5. Bike Obstacle Course

6. Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course

7. Don’t Disturb the Obstacles Course

8. Tape Obstacle Course

9. Glow-in-the-Dark Obstacle Course

10. Boot Camp Course

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We know your kids will love these toddler games—what they won’t know is that they’re learning too

1. First Orchard

2. Laundry Basket

3. Roll & Play

4. Obstacle Course

5. Scavenger Hunt

6. Odd One Out

7. Simon Says

8. Monkey Around

9. Bucket Ball Toss

10. Hot & Cold

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