For those big on resolutions, January is the month for getting out there and moving forward. After a whirlwind of winter break excursions, early-morning Christmas morning activities and New Year’s Eve partying, parents have a different goal: relax and recover.

It’s tempting to sit on the sidelines during the first month of 2013. However, if you’re not the kind of family that can stay home, these fun January activities will get your new year off to a fun start.

January 3 - 5, Mutt-Cracker

Still not ready to take down the Christmas tree? The holiday spirit is still hanging around town. Catch the beauty and splendor of a Nutcracker performance that’s truly gone to the dogs.

The Mutt-Cracker is the holiday classic featuring dog tricks, juggling, unicyclists and plenty of family fun. Performed by the Austin-based Circus Chickendog, Mutt-Cracker’s performing pups are a great post-Christmas treat.

January 5, Video Games Live

Quick, turn to the nearest office mate over 30 and ask them to do the theme from Super Mario Brothers or The Legend Of Zelda. While modern gamers fawn over gameplay and graphics, the most universally adored part of many games is the music.

From Metroid to Mario, the memorable music of games new and classic are performed with a live orchestra duringVideo Games Live. Make your kids hit pause and focus on their ears at this unique concert experience at Long Center For The Performing Arts.

January 13, Get Fit 2013

2013 is the year to get serious about fitness. Wait... fitness? Oh... here come the memories... the terrifying rope climbs... the locker room awkwardness. Whoa, sorry. Flashbacks.

So... maybe you or your kids aren’t crazy about the gym scene. Thankfully, you have options. Ballet Austin is prepared to help you with Get Fit! 2013.

This free one-day event lets you sample Ballet Austin’s fitness, ballet and Pilates classes held at the Butler Community School and Pilates Center. Getting fit should be fun, and taking a free class during Get Fit! 2013 is a step (pirouette?) in the right direction.

January 24 - 25, Harlem Globetrotters

Sporting events are great for family bonding. But before dropping big bucks on Spurs tickets, know that your kids are more likely to enjoy seeing a bucket of confetti poured over someone's head. Luckily, the Harlem Globetrotters are still serving up their blend of silliness and sports sizzle.

During their stop at the Frank Erwin Center, they’re offering up a twist with “You Make The Rules,” offering fans the chance to add in rules and regulations that will be used during the game. The laughs are fun and fast, and getting “Sweet Georgia Brown” stuck in your head is never a bad thing.

January 26, Tree Talk Winter Walk

Chances are, your kids' only exposure to trees are Lincoln Logs. Perhaps it's time they learned how to climb something that’s not a playground structure.

A good, old-fashioned tree climb can sharpen problem solving skills and build muscles (as well as conquer a fear of heights). Join the Tree Talk Winter Walk and show your kids the thrill of nature.

Held at the Mollie Steves Zachry Texas Arboretum, this guided walk lets you explore the forest, become acquainted with native trees and shrubs and learn how to plant new ones. Kids activities will include fort-building, educational tables and a tree climb. It's a great opportunity to give your kids an introduction to the great outdoors, post video games.