The Miller-Cory House in Westfield, NJ is another historic site that offers a variety of family events this season.

I am looking forward to stopping by for Hocus Pocus on Oct. 25, where kids will be able to decorate their own Halloween cupcake among other crafst and there will be storytelling. This event, runs from 1:30 to 4 pm and guests are encouraged to come in costume. The cost is $4 for children while accompanying adults are free.

The Miller-Cory House will host other events nearly every Sunday, including:

• Nov. 1 - Visiting Westfield in Colonial Times
• Nov. 8 - Colloquialisms - Expressions from the Past 
• Nov. 15 - Sweet Things - 18th Century Candy
  

The cost for each of these is $2.50 for adults; $1.00 for students; children under 4 free. 

And there will be more to do in December, including Gingerbread Sunday on Dec. 6. From 1:30 to 4 pm, children will make a simple gingerbread house to take home and hear stories. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and space is limited. There is a cost for this program, which is recommended for ages 5-10.

People can call the museum at 908-232-1776 to register for programs or for more information.

We were at the Lord Stirling 1770s Festival in Basking Ridge today (an annual event I recommend, for families) & we received information on the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts in Madison, NJ. I have to admit the name didn't make me think of anything I'd be interested in but then the woman handing me a brochure mentioned that they have hands-on activities for kids, usually for ages 6-11.

My daughter is 3 1/2 but I decided to check out their site to see what else they might have and they have lots of neat-sounding events and programs. They have  an after-school Kids' Club for ages 6-11, with a variety of themed activities throughout the year. They also have several events for all ages including a family-friendly concert series.

For kids they have Tricks N Treats on October 31. Kids in costume can come for a number of activities including games & crafts. In November, children can attend a Teddy Bear Picnic in honor of National Teddy Bear Day. Kids can bring their stuffed buddy and enjoy teddy bear stories. This event is appropriate for ages 2-6.

On December 6, older children ages 9-12 can get hands-on experience in jewelry making in their Jewelry Making Workshop.

Next year's programming for kids looks really creative, too, with a Dragon Tales Pajama Party, a Stuffed-Animal Sleepover and more.

There's plenty for adults as well. In October, there is a Chocolate event and in November, there's Wine & Song, an annual fundraising event. In December, there is a Jewelry Making Workshop for Adults.

And there's plenty more. I'm looking forward to checking this place out and let me know if you do, too.

Be aware that many of these programs recommend advance registration so call the Museum at 973-377-2982 x 14.