Abigail Breslin turned 12 in April, yet she’s a veteran actor. The TV commercials started at age 3, and now she has a starring role — and her name above the title! — in the new film “Kit Kittredge: An American Girl.”

 

Nine-year-old Emily Braunstein of Needham wants to be a chef. But she's not the type of girl that follows a set recipe. She airs on the side of experimental. Some of her past creations have included hot dog omelets and French Toast that she now says "had way too much sugar." Today she's in the mood to create something on the healthier side.

 

Enjoying the outdoors is more than just playing catch in the back yard or riding a bicycle down the street. The fresh air is great, but actually exploring bugs and birds and animals in their habitats can help children develop a real love and respect for nature that will follow them into adulthood.

 

Are you ready for some Fouth of July fun? It starts earlier than you think. From the North Shore to the South Shore, to Boston and to the West, here is our listing for the best fireworks and family fun!