Today
Go green: Keep summertime simple with pop-infused folk tunes from Melissa Green such as “Chocolate Ice Cream” and “The Seahorse Song.” Part of the Bryant Park Reading Room Word for Word Kids series. Noon to 1 p.m., free. 42nd Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues; 212-768-4242, bryantpark.org
Balancing act: It’s a dance double-bill when the Cecilia Marta Dance Company and Francine E. Ott/The Walk take SummerStage by storm. Expect an interesting mix of Latin-based moves and Ott’s colorful piece “A Delicate Balance.” 8 p.m., free. Marcus Garvey Park, Madison Avenue between 120th and 124th streets; 212-360-2756, summerstage.org
Circus circus: Way more of an event than your everyday trip to the playground, this month’s “Playdate!” at Riverside Park will star Kae Burke of the all-female circus troupe Lady Circus. Kids will get an up-close look at a variety of carnival tricks, and might even learn to do a few themselves. 1 to 4 p.m., free. Riverside Drive at 125th Street; 212-870-3070, riversideparkfund.org
All weekend
Brain Power: This weekend is your last chance to see the American Museum of Natural History’s thought-provoking (ha!) exhibit “Brain: The Inside Story.” Art, brain-scan images, demonstrations of the latest advances in neuroscience technology and more show how the brain has evolved and where it’s, er, headed. Closes tomorrow. 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., suggested general admission $19 for adults, $10.50 for kids. Central Park West at 79th Street; 212-769-5100, amnh.org
Behind the scenes: It’s been 42 years, but the free backstage tours at matinee performances of “The Fantasticks” are brand-new! Kids get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to put on a show, meet a cast member and pose for pics onstage (and even get a free Snapple on their way out!). Call ahead to reserve a spot. Through Labor Day, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m., $75. Jerry Orbach Theater, 210 W. 50th Street, at Broadway; 212-921-7862, ticketmaster.com
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