Emma Fiske-Dobell

As an alumnus of Saturday Night Live and a founding member of the Upright Citizens Brigade, Ali Farahnakian has years of improv and performance experience under his belt. But the best show that the People's Improv Theatre founder puts on is often at his Midtown East apartment, using funny accents when reading children's books to his daughters, Ella, 6, and Olivia, 4. Recently, Farahnakian and his wife, Beth, a former television news producer, created Broadway Birthday Bashes, the kids' party division of the PIT. Young partygoers—including Ella, who celebrated her birthday at the space last year—watch a musical improv show, then take to the stage for a dance party. Not surprisingly, Farahnakian's flair for performance is already visible in his children; the girls can often be found putting on shows at school or in the playground.THEIR FAVORITE... AFTER-SCHOOL SNACK SPOT"The girls are big fans of the original custard cream puffs at Choux Factory (*865 First Ave between 48th and 49th Sts, 212-223-0730. *1685 First Ave between 87th and 88th Sts, 212-289-2023). We buy them as a grab-it-and-go snack to eat at MacArthur Park, our local playground. The store also makes a great iced coffee for adults."FALL OUTING"We love exploring the lush greens and gorgeous mazes at the Children's Adventure Garden at the New York Botanical Garden. The last time we visited, they had a fall project where the children got to identify leaves in the park and learn about the different trees they come from

The weatherman predicts that this Mother's Day (May 13) will be warm and sunny—not cloudy with a chance of meatballs—but with these delicious Mother's Day meal specials available, we think you'll be plenty hungry nonetheless. Whether Mom prefers a mimosa-accompanied brunch or a hearty dinner, these eateries are sure to hit the spot. Carmine'sThough there's no kids' menu here, little ones will be happy to share the Mother's Day prime rib special: a 38-ounce prime rib chop on the bone, marinated in herbs and served with fresh veggies and roasted potatoes ($70.50, feeds a family of six).  For dessert, everyone can munch on the heart-shaped chocolate brownie that comes topped with whipped cream, chocolate-covered strawberries and strawberry sauce ($15). Reservations recommended. 200 W 44th St at Seventh Ave (212-221-3800, carminesnyc.com) 508 Restaurant & Bar This casual gastrobrewery in Soho is celebrating moms with a special two-course prix fixe brunch including drinks for $45. All moms will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. The peanut-butter-and-jelly stuffed French toast on the la carte menue is sure to be a hit with the younger crowd. Reservations recommended. 508 Greenwich St between Broome and Spring Sts (212-219-2444, 508nyc.com) Henry's Here, Mom can knock back a mango mimosa before digging into a warm goat cheese salad and crispy fried calamari, or a chorizo-potato omelet, off the $29 prix fixe menu. The best part: a surprise parting gift. Reservations r