Kids and teens with special needs can come together for social and communication skills, and other sensory-friendly fun activities such as stories, movement and more. Parents also have the opportunity learn strategies for their children and gain support from others.

What happens when you pair two generations together? This is being answered across the U.S. and right here in Northeast Ohio with intergenerational living. Some senior facilities have already combined services with an on-campus daycare facility, which gives preschoolers and residents an opportunity to do activities together.

Tickets are on sale now for Day Out with Thomas, which takes place May 20, 21 and 26 aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The event lets parents and children take a 30-minute train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine. Families also can enjoy magicians, bounce houses, balloon artists, and more.

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Registration begins soon for the first installment of the Crocker Kids summer event series. Presented by Lake Ridge Academy and Northeast Ohio Parent magazine, Crocker Kids offers free, family fun one Tuesday per month from May through September at Crocker Park in Westlake. Each event carries a unique theme and includes theme-related activities, crafts, prizes and more.

While each baby and child develops at a slightly different rate, there are some general guidelines that parents can expect. This developmental chart lists some skills typical of a child's development from infancy through 5 years old, and also offers parents some suggestions for age appropriate toys and activities to do with their children.

The Cleveland Orchestra has announced details of its 2017-18 calendar — what will be the ensemble’s 100th year of concerts and the launch of its second century of performances. Returning once again is the family-friendly “Under 18s Free” program, which aims to make attending concerts an affordable experience for area families.

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"Build It!" runs through Sept. 4 at the Great Lakes Science Center. The special exhibit offers three hands-on phases, the first of which currently features castle-themed activities, including a virtual catapult and a giant castle with secret passageways. Visitors can design their own castles and courtyards. The exhibit also features educational displays about the real medieval era, Lego mosaics on display, and a stop-motion animation station so kids can create their own mini "Lego Movie."