Watermelon Swim: Something Fun Has Sprouted!
We have grown into Watermelon Swim! We are keeping the current experience, reputation, and values but adding a fresh and exciting twist.
Blog
Scouting Lasting Influence: The Importance of Nonparental Adults
Tampa Bay dad Drew Weatherford is blessed that one of college football’s winningest coaches, Bobby Bowden, was among his nonparental adult figures.
LEGOLAND Florida celebrates 10th birthday with NEW experiences
LEGOLAND Florida debuted several NEW things to do with the kids and even announced a new ride coming in 2022!
The Disney connection to Tampa Bay is more magical than you think!
There’s more than I-4 that connects Tampa Bay to Walt Disney World. Grayson Kamm shares some fascinating ways our roots grow deep with the Happiest Place on Earth.
Families Experience Wonder at the Zubrick Magic Theatre
Award-winning illusionists Chris and Ryan Zubrick stretch smiles and drop jaws for audiences of all ages at Zubrick Magic Theatre.
How Raprager Family Farm Got Its Start in Tampa Bay
We’re getting to know the family behind the Raprager Farm as they share what inspired them to open the farm to what’s next.
BOGO is BACK! A conversation with Zach Bogosian of the Tampa Bay Lightning
Zach Bogosian is BACK and we’re sitting down with the Tampa Bay Lightning player to learn more about life off the ice as a parent and his return to the team.
Game Day Tips: Taking Your Kids to a Bucs Game
Planning a family outing to a Bucs game? Here’s what you need to know before you go to the next game at Raymond James Stadium!
MAMA Social Media Influencers to Follow in Tampa Bay!
If you asked someone what the heck a social media influencer was 10 years ago, they’d probably think you were crazy. (Remember those old school Facebook status updates…or worse…MySpace?) My oh my how time has changed! Social media influencers play a big role in many of our lives. Maybe their posts will inspire a…
COVID Testing and Kids: When is it necessary and which test is best?
COVID Testing and Kids: We are nearly two years into this pandemic and it’s important to know when to get your child tested for COVID-19.
LEGOLAND Florida is Celebrating its 10th Birthday This October!
Legoland Florida is Celebrating its 10th Birthday This October With All-New Events, Attractions, and Surprises!
Top Three Winning LEGO MASTERS Models are Coming to LEGOLAND Florida Resort!
Top Three Winning LEGO Builds from FOX’s LEGO MASTERS Will Be On Display at LEGOLAND Florida Resort This Fall!
Our Best Summer Ever! Ideas to inspire your 2022 Summer Family Adventure
We asked some of our contributors to share their summer adventures beyond our beautiful Sunshine State to help inspire your next family trip!
School Lunch Box Ideas with Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia
Stumped on what to include in your child’s school lunch box? Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia is sharing her top tips and cool ideas!
Erasing the Need: Where to Donate School Supplies to Help Local Kids
School is almost back in session and that means shopping for school supplies, but for some families, a trip to the store can be stressful.
Get Up and Go Kayaking at Shell Key Preserve #1 for a Reason
Get Up and Go Kayaking’s Paddle Pals adventure for kids and their parents is a must experience! We’re giving all of the you the fun details!
Maggie and the Moms: Watch the Full Episodes
Don’t miss a minute! We’re sharing all of the recent episodes of Maggie and the Moms. You can also watch Mondays on Daytime at 10 am.
Florida Summer Getaway: A Long Weekend at Reunion Resort in Kissimmee
We’re giving you a peek at all of the family fun at Reunion Resort in Kissimmee, a perfect summer getaway in Florida!
Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay: Healthier Homes, Happier Families
Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay’s goal is to make homes safer/healthier through residential repairs/rehab services to low-income homeowners.
Best Beaches in Florida for Families
Let’s all go the beach…let’s go to the beach! We are lucky to live like we are on vacation every day here in Tampa Bay. Florida has 825 miles of sandy beaches, so the real question becomes, “Which one?” Grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into some of our favorites. We’ll even share some of…
A Very Florida STATE-cation
So what if it’s hot outside? We’re in Florida! Here is our roundup of some of the wildest adventures we can seek out with our families.
5 Nonstop Flights For Nearby Family Getaways
Halfway through 2021, many Tampa Bay area families are tired of staycations and yearning for the real thing. Try these easy nonstop flights!
Parks + Attractions | Attractions | Outdoors | Parks | Tampa | Things to Do
10 Things We LOVE About Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in Tampa
To say we LOVE Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park near downtown Tampa is an understatement. It is absolutely stunning! We highly encourage you to take the kids and go discover the 25-acre park. We promise you…there is truly something for everyone here. Related: Looking for a fun trip to the Tampa Riverwalk by downtown Tampa?…
INSIDE LOOK: “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit” at Glazer Children’s Museum
“Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit” is now open at the Glazer Children’s Museum. Come along with us on a tour!
INSIDE LOOK: Secrets of the Zoo: ZooTampa
If you’ve ever watched an episode of the popular Nat Geo WILD series “Secrets of the Zoo: ZooTampa,” you may already know …
Back in Time: A Day Trip to Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is only 55 miles from downtown Tampa, but it feels like a world away. Maggie Rodriguez takes you on a tour for a perfect day trip.
BACK TO THE BEACH – Kicking off beach season with a day trip to Siesta Key
Only one hour from Tampa Bay, Siesta Key waits for you and your family! Enjoy an amazing beach, great food, and a fun atmosphere!
Busch Gardens Offers FREE Admission to Active Duty Military and Veterans
Through June 27, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is offering free admission for U.S. military veterans and their families.
Native American Festivals to Discover in Florida
On February 6, 2021, my family and I went to the Brooksville Native American Festival. At the festival, we saw several Native American, South American, and Polynesian tribes. There was traditional dancing, music, handmade art, jewelry, primitive demonstrators, and most of all, Native food. This Native American Festival is a family-friendly activity to enjoy. While…
How Poetry Helps Improve Literacy and Self-Expression
Poetry gives children freedom to invent anything they want and learn in a new way! Visit your public library for poetry for all ages.
Boca Grande: A day trip to a railroad hub, now one of the Gulf’s most elegant beach towns
Maggie Rodriguez takes us along on an adventure to Boca Grande sharing her favorite places to explore and things to do with the kids!
Beaches + Waterparks + Splashpads | Beach | Outdoors | St. Pete | Summer Break Fun | Things to Do | Travel
A Picture Perfect Day at the #1 Beach in America: St Pete Beach
We’re sharing top picks of things to do in St. Pete Beach so you can plan your next trip to the number one beach in the United States!
Writing a New Chapter with Maggie Rodriguez
Maggie Rodriguez, a monthly contributor to our magazine, has forged a new, more flexible career path as the co-host of Daytime on WFLA.
For the Love of Earth and Family: LUFKA Refillables Zero Waste Store in Tampa
Meet Kelly Hawaii and her husband Parosh, launched their business Lufka Refillables Zero Waste Store right here in Tampa!
Mermaids in Tampa Bay. Yes, it’s TRUE! They Live in Weeki Wachee Springs
Learn more about the history and magic of mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
St. Joseph’s Hospital-South opens new NICU to care for the tiniest patients
The new Level II NICU at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South provides specialized around-the-clock care 24 hours a day, seven days a week for newborns and their mothers.
Best Resort Staycation Ideas for families traveling from Tampa Bay
With resorts adding so many amenities that you don’t need to leave the property to have a good time, booking a staycation has become popular.
Heavy Metals in Baby Food: Expert info on what you need to know
Dr. Rachel Dawkins, a pediatrician at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital shares the need to knows about heavy metals in baby food.
Everything you need to know about The Super Bowl Experience Presented by Lowe’s
The Riverwalk takes center stage for pre-game events to get the community and our visitors a chance to step inside the Super Bowl Experience.
Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Spots to Social Distance in Tampa Bay
Life during a pademic has us all seeking a little bit more space! We’re sharing some of our favorite social distancing friendly places in Tampa Bay!
Toddler Toe Walking: What’s Normal, What’s Not
Paul Benfanti, M.D., helps parents understand if and when they should be concerned about a child who might show signs of toe walking.
High school AP Capstone Program benefits and why your child should take advantage of it
The AP Capstone program equips students with independent research, collaborative teamwork and communication skills valued by colleges.
LEGOLAND Florida offering FREE Preschooler Pass, too!
Busch Gardens + Adventure Island just announced their FREE Preschool Card for little ones, and now LEGOLAND Florida has one too!
Why Choose a K-8 School? 5 Benefits of an Elementary and Middle School Program
Middle School may seem miles away when you are looking for a kindergarten for your child. Does it really matter if his school includes …?
Season of Giving: 10 Ways Your Family Can Give Back in Tampa Bay
We’re sharing different ways your family can give back in Tampa Bay whether it’s by volunteering your time or supporting a local non-profit.
November Cover Story: Meet Home DIY Influencer Lindsay Dean and family
If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s how to be comfortable at home. Home DIY Influencer Lindsay Dean shares what inspires her creations and how she got her start.
Flying During a Pandemic: What to Expect at TPA
While 2020 may be the year of the summer staycation, some families are opting to cautiously travel by air to see out-of-state relatives after being home.
Introducing the newest pirate ship to invade Tampa Bay: Lost Pearl
Experience a pirate adventure in the heart of Downtown Tampa during a 1.5-hour interactive cruise aboard the Lost Pearl. Be sure to have yer cameras ready!
Will Gholston of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A Conversation about Fatherhood & Football
Will Gholston became a father and an NFL player at the same time. Eight years and three kids later, he’s mastered both roles.
The Junior Buccaneers Cheerleading Program is Going Virtual in 2020!
If your little one loves to cheer and dance, the Junior Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleading program might be a perfect match for them!
Focus, Faith and Family with Fox & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt
Fox & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt is heading to Tampa Bay with many of her other Fox News Channel hosts for the inaguaral Patriot Awards. She’s sharing more about motherhood, faith and focus at work.
Meet the Principal: Sala Sims of IDEA Tampa Bay
Sala Sims, Principal in Residence for IDEA Tampa Bay, believes that when you support children on their journey through college you are changing their lives.
8 Must-Do Outdoor Adventures in Tampa Bay with the Outdoorsy Diva
From the beaches, to the rivers and treetops, travel blogger Lauren Gay of the OutdoorsyDiva.com is sharing her 8 picks to explore in Tampa Bay!
Top 3 Party Planning Websites: Creative Inspiration for Your Next Birthday Party!
We have created a list of the Top 3 Party Planning Websites that will help you plan your next party, and add a little bit of creativity while doing it.
Moms to Know: Lindsey Jackson of Jackson in Action 83 Foundation
KNOW Tribe members and Jackson in Action 83 Foundation (JIA83), Jackson and Gorrell have worked together with military families since 2012.
Keep the Kids Busy with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers During Quarantine!
You and the kids can get moving and get coloring with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during your self-quarantine! Check out these FREE printables and videos!
Visiting The Florida Aquarium With Your Toddler
We love the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, FL! Here are some tips for visiting the aquarium with your toddler or young child.
Van Gogh Alive at The Dali extended through June!
Van Gogh Alive at The Dali is an immersive, multi-sensory art exhibit like you’ve never experienced before! We’re sharing what to expect.
Sign Up for Kindergarten this month with Hillsborough County Schools
If you have a rising kindergartner, this is the time to register! Hillsborough County elementary schools are hosting Ready for Kindergarten events this month.
Tampa Bay Lightning’s Dan Girardi Talks About Life After Pro Hockey
It’s a new season for Dan Girardi and his family. The former Tampa Bay Lightning player recently retired from the NHL and shares what life is like after pro hockey.