We're lucky to have a variety of groups that offer family-friendly programming around here. They all are coming out with their 2012-13 seasons now. I'll write individual posts about each of them starting with the N.C. Symphony's Young People's Series today.

As I've said before, I highly recommend these hour-long concerts, designed for kids ages 4 to 12 and their adults. I have taken my older daughter to many of them and, in fact, thanks to my dad, have season tickets this year.

The programs are a great way to introduce young children to classical music. They usually offer some interactive elements. And the lobby at the Progress Energy Center for Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh always includes some hands-on activities for kids too.

Here's what's scheduled:

• Halloween Spooktacular!, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., Oct. 27. Calling all witches, wizards, ghouls and goblins! The symphony invites you to the concert hall for a spine-tingling trip into your favorite spooky stories. Award-winning storyteller Connie Regan-Blake reads children’s tales full of creepy twists and chilling villains, plus you’ll hear music from Harry Potter, Star Wars and more. At the end of the concert, join us on stage for our Halloween costume parade!
• Tales of Enchantment, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., Jan. 5. Enter the magical world of Mother Goose. Enchantment Theatre Company brings its signature blend of puppetry, magic, dance and pantomime to the symphony for a spectacular reimagining of your favorite childhood stories, based on the captivating music of Maurice Ravel. Enjoy Sleeping Beauty, Tom Thumb, Beauty and the Beast, the Princess of the Pagodas and the Fairy Garden like you never have before.
• Rhythm In Your Rubbish, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., March 9. Discover music in unexpected places when Canada’s trailblazing Platypus Theatre helps the symphony find all the little things that ring, whistle, bang and sing! Step into a fantasy world with two colorful characters who create music and beauty with the simplest objects. A dynamic blend of music and theater, Platypus productions have received rave reviews from musicians, educators, parents and children.

This year, the symphony is doing things a little differently. Instead of general admission tickets, there will be assigned seats. That means concert goers won't have to rush through the activities in the lobby so they can get their seats.

Tickets to all three concerts are $39. Individual tickets are $20. Go to the N.C. Symphony's website for details.