Watching Glee last night, my 11-year-old daughter and I exchanged knowing smiles during the scene in which one of the show's main hunks (Finn) explained to his ex-sweetheart (Rachel) how he always can tell a girl's true feelings--even while he's being perfectly obtuse about Rachel's lingering feelings for him. Instead of actual discussion, Elena and I often do best when we are sharing an activity we both like--and we both like Glee's mix of pop music and high school melodrama. We watch recorded versions of the show so I can skip over anything that seems too sexual--a control I'll have less and less of (in life as in TV) as she heads into her adolescence. For now though, I find that enjoying some quality TV time her helps keep our bond affectionate and open. Who knew?    

*Last year, we asked four moms to tackle their resolutions--from getting organized to making a great family dinner--with the help of some experts. The popular article, Resolved!, is worth another airing, if only for inspiration and insight. If you're still thinking about your own resolutions, why not find some way, big or small, to improve your relationship with your children in the coming year? It's our favorite.

*Looking for the perfect winter indoor activity for your child? You've come to the right place. New York Family has gathered over 75 of the best extracurricular classes that kids, from tots to tweens, will love. From Mommy & Me to cooking global cuisine, from Latin American dance to advanced art--our winter-spring classes directory is full of inspiration, learning and major fun.   

*The public library, especially in winter, is one of the most overlooked family venues for a variety of fun and free activities. This season's calendar of activities is sure to offer something for everyone--from animal exploration to time with Winnie-the-Pooh and friends. Here's a sampling of some classes, programs and activities being offered this winter by the New York Public Library (which covers Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island--Queens and Brooklyn families, which have amazing library systems too, should look here and here). Finally, we've included some wonderful upcoming readings for children at local bookstores. 

*Beauty extraordinaire Shara Benison has come up with a list of fresh face finds for the new year. Did you know that Kate Moss has a new lipstick for Rimmel? Or that drybar offers blowouts for only 40 bucks? Check out some of the best new beauty buys. 

*New York Times Best Seller, Stuck by Brooklyn-based Oliver Jeffers, is a hilarious picture book that details one boy's kite-stuck-in-tree fiasco, and how he resolves the crisis with aplomb. Enjoy sharing it with your child. $16.99, amazon.com  

*Design icon Jonathan Adler is bringing his colorful, geometric designs to the diaper bag game, teaming up with Skip Hop to bring on-the-go mothers a sleek range of bold, bright and beautifully functional diaper bags. $34-$80, skiphop.com 

*FOR THE WHOLE FAM* 

No plans this weekend? We're giving away a family 4-pack for Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey for this Saturday's performance, January 7 at 7pm at Nassau Coliseum. To enter, post on our Facebook Page telling us why you want to bring your family. Then, email us with the subject line "Disney on Ice" and be sure to leave your contact information. Deadline is this Friday at 12noon.  

*FOR TODDLERS*   

Can't get enough of Clifford? Then this week's giveaway, suitable for children aged 2 and up, is your Scholastic dream come true! The BIG BIG Collection is a 6-DVD set from Lionsgate, with over 50 stories and 9 hours of doghouse fun. We have two full DVD sets for lucky tots. To enter, post on our Facebook Page telling us about your favorite dog (real or fictional). Then, send us an email with the subject line "Clifford." Deadline is Wednesday, January 11.

*FOR TWEENS*

Style addicts 8 and up will go Gaga over this giveaway: Nina Chakrabarti's giant coloring book of fashion projects. We've also thrown in a set of fashion postcards so that your design maven can flaunt her talent worldwide! With two stellar sets to dole out, all you have to do is email us about your tween's love for all things art and clothing with the subject line "Wonderful World." Deadline to enter is Wednesday, January 11.

*Are you ready for MulchFest 2012? This Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 2pm, bring your undecorated Christmas tree to a chipping or drop-off location nearby (over 70 locations citywide). Kiddos will adore watching their tree get sucked into the mulching machine (trust us on this!). As a souvenir, everyone can take home a bag of mulch to use in their backyard come springtime. Last year, over 17,000 trees were recycled! Find a MulchFest location near you.    

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