The BEST Halloween Events for Kids in Tampa Bay + MORE Fun!
We’re sharing the best Halloween events for kids in Tampa Bay, along with trick-or-treating events, costume ideas, spooky snacks, and MORE!
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How to create a hurricane kit and find out if you live in an evacuation zone
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital offers expert advice on how to prepare and we’re sharing ways to connect with local emergency management.
Halloween For Tweens and Teens: Teen-Approved Frights and Fun
Marisa Langford is sharing fun, safe and most importantly TEEN-APPROVED options for Halloween for teens and tweens in Tampa Bay.
How to Decorate the Perfect Pumpkin
At the Glazer Children’s Museum, the staff put on a fiercely competitive pumpkin decorating contest, and they’re sharing expert tips!
Kids to Know: Wee Macree Junior Leadership Board
Get to know the kids behind the Wee Macree 501c3 nonprofit Junior Leadership Board who serve the mission of ‘kids helping kids’ in Tampa Bay!
From Shared Values to Lasting Impact: A Journey of Excellence and Leadership at Tarpon Springs High School
It began as a chance meeting nearly thirty years ago at a Drum Corps International championship, which set the stage for an enduring partnership. He was there composing music; she was competing with a color guard group. A year later, Kevin and Jeannine Ford were married, beginning a lifelong journey of purpose together. Tarpon Springs…
“Not so Spooky” Spooky Reads for Pre-Teens
A couple of months ago, a 9-year boy and his mom came up to the information desk, and the boy asked for a scary book. His mom looked at me and, shaking her head, said, “But not too scary; he also gets nightmares.” “I got you!” I responded. I have curated a list of horror-ish…
Avoiding Car Line Chaos!
It’s your average Tuesday morning. You’re running late for work. Maybe it’s starting to rain. And car line is taking FOREVER. Parents are not adhering to the zipper method, kids aren’t prepared to get out of the car, and… Oh my gosh, NO! Did you just see a mom get out of the car, walk…
Standing Up Against Bullying
When Nick DeCastro, a 2024 graduate of Steinbrenner High School, organized a peer-led intervention with the students he observed bullying others, he earned recognition from the school’s resource officer, Deputy Anthony Bennett. He also received Hillsborough County’s Anti-Bullying Advisory Committee’s annual Anti-Bullying Award for his courageous stand against bullying. Recognizing and Preventing Bullying The Situation…
The Ooey Gooey Truth About Cavities!
It’s the season of candy, candy and MORE candy, making it the perfect time to ask … what exactly is the science behind cavities? Will an all-night session of snacking on Halloween candy really cause a cavity? And how long should we actually be brushing our teeth? We’re turning to Dr. Michael McIlwain, with McIlwain…
Cancer Support at the Suncoast and Tampa YMCAs
In October, the stark reality of cancer is nestled in soft pink merchandise for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control and Health (CDC), Hillsborough County is in the top third for cancer occurrences in Florida. At the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA and the YMCA…
Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice at Watermelon Swim
It’s fall y’all! At Watermelon Swim we’re gearing up for our favorite time of the year, pumpkin season! Visit any of the four Watermelon Swim Pumpkin Patches from Oct. 4 to Oct. 31 to pick out the perfect pumpkin and support your community while getting in the fall spirit, because a portion of all proceeds…
St. Pete STEAMfest Returns for 7th Community Festival
St. Pete STEAMfest returns for the seventh community festival celebrating the study of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free, family-friendly festival, designed for families of children in preschool through eighth grade, brings hands-on experiential learning from some of the Tampa Bay area’s…
Hauntingly Healthy Treats the Family Will Love for Halloween
Ginain Grayes of @cookprayslay is dishing on some healthy Halloween snacks that are not only good for your but hauntingly delicious.
Navigating a Competitive Admissions Season Without Stress
The school year still feels brand new, so how is it time to begin thinking about 2025-26? If you’re considering enrolling in a private school, it’s smart to start early. Applications are open at private schools, where admissions officers expect another busy season. A Cato Institute survey showed that 50 percent of private schools received…
How to Keep Bedtime Safe for Babies
In Hillsborough County and around the country, babies continue to die in unsafe sleeping environments. These tragedies are preventable, and Rebecca Bacon, executive director of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, wants parents and caregivers to know the rights and wrongs of safe sleep.
Rules of the Sidewalk: How to ensure that your little ones walk and bike safely
Anyone whose community participates in National/International Walk to School Day knows what a wholesome sight that morning presents, with little and big kids, parents and entire families strolling down neighborhood sidewalks like a scene from an old-fashioned movie. And it is a wonderful thing, until someone stops paying attention, and something bad happens. BayCare Kids…
Moms to Know: Natalie Zfat
Get to know local Tampa mom and digital media expert, Natalie Zfat, who’s sharing awareness tips to help protect your kids from cyber-bullying.
12 Halloween Safety Tips from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
Don’t be ghoulish and practice these Halloween safety tips from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and how to prevent common injuries.
7+ Spookiest Haunted Houses Around Tampa Bay!
Halloween is on the horizon! What better what to get into the spooky spirit than to experience a haunted house?
Hurricane Related School Closures in Tampa Bay
As we keep an eye on Helene, some Tampa Bay Area schools are announcing school closures in preparation for the storm’s potential impacts and so designated schools can serve as storm shelters.
Hurricane Myths Busted: The Truth Behind Common Hurricane Misconceptions
Is wind more dangerous than water? Will Tampa always dodge big storms? Will taping your windows prevent them from breaking? Hurricane season is here, and while it’s important to know the facts and be prepared, it’s also easy to become misinformed. We recently spoke to ABC Action News Chief Meteorologist Denis Phillips about some of…
13 Scenic Road Trips to Experience the Beautiful Colors of Fall
Check out these easy and accessible trips outside of Florida to take where you can experience the vibrant colors of the fall season!
A Parent’s Guide to Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida 2024
We’re dishing on all the details about Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida to help you map out your family’s adventure this Halloween season!
INSIDE LOOK: The ALL-NEW Halloween Harvest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Join us as we take you for a look at what to expect at this brand-new event for families that includes trick-or-treating, fun activities, and more!
Where to Celebrate Free Museum Day in Tampa Bay
Free Museum Day is on September 21! Check out the participating museums around Tampa Bay where you can take advantage of free admission.
Jane Goodall is Bringing her Roots & Shoots Program to Tampa Bay This Weekend
Join Dr. Jane Goodall for a weekend filled with environment awareness. Join fellow students to learn how to help our environment and make the world a better place!
Spooky Scary Fun: Ghosts of Tampa Theatre Tour and A Nightmare on Franklin Street
The historic Tampa Theatre is one of the most haunted places in town and very October, you can have some spooky fun with their Ghosts of Tampa Theatre Tour and A Nightmare on Franklin Street.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Rescuing, Rehabilitating and Releasing Tampa Bay’s Gentle Giants
It takes a village to raise a child – a familiar adage for parents. The same holds true for manatee rescue and rehabilitation, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is part of that village for Tampa Bay Area manatees. As of August 12, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Manatee Rehabilitation Center (MRC) is now open! Dr….
Make the Moments Count: 6 Ideas for One-On-One Time With Teens in Tampa
Our Teens Editor, Marisa Langford, is sharing her 6 Favorite Ideas for great things to do with teens in Tampa to really connect while having fun and exploring the city together.
Attendance Awareness Month – Show up & Be a Success!
My son is a senior in high school. There’s no doubt he will pass all his classes and graduate. I want him to enjoy his senior year. It’s okay if he misses a few days of school here and there, right? My daughter is in seventh grade. She’s brilliant! She makes straight As without even…
Mom to Know: Maxine Reyes
From the Air Force to the Army, Maxine Reyes shares about her incredible career with the U.S. Military, plus founding Courage & Grace Foundation.
Pup’s Injury Inspires Local ‘Dog Mom’ to Start Prosthetics Company
Get to know ‘Dog Mom,’ Danielle Robins, the founder of Palm Harbor Animal prosthetics company OrthoPaws.
Safety First: For Baby Safety Month, Check Out These Tips From a BayCare Kids Expert
The experts from BayCare Kids Wellness and Safety are sharing the best ways to keep your baby safe: while sleeping, on the road and at home.
Fine Arts Resources at Your Local Public Library
The A in STEAM stands for “Arts.” The fine arts, encompassing both the plastic arts and the performing arts, are for everyone. Our local public library is a welcoming space that features a wealth of resources, making the exploration and enjoyment of the fine arts accessible to all. Explore Fine Arts at the Library: Books…
Kids to Know: Shelby Langford
Getting to know Tampa’s Shelby Langford: Future Farmers of America member and the student responsible for the fodder farm being built behind Gaither High School.
We Are in the Hope Business
The Head of School at Academy at the Lakes is sharing why school must be about Hope during a time when we’re fed a steady diet of negativity and fear.
Understanding and Managing Pink Eye in Your Child
As we head back to school, the experts at After Hours Pediatrics are helping us get familiar with the causes, symptoms, and treatments for pink eye.
Bead-azzled During Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month
Read about Tayler Ellison’s touching journey with pediatric cancer and The Beads of Courage program which includes reminders of each treatment.
Score Big This Fall at the YMCA
Did you know that the YMCA invented basketball?? The YMCA is sharing the importance of youth sports and all the great options available to you at your local YMCA.
Tampa YMCA Launches Thriver’s Club – Cancer Survivor Program for Kids
The Tampa Y is sharing everything you need to know about their all-new Thriver’s Club, a FREE cancer survivor program for kids ages 6-12 and 13-17 launching this September for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort’s Brick-or-Treat Takes to the Skies With All-New Drone Skytacular!
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort! Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party is back with an ALL-NEW and super-awesome Monster Skytacular Drone Show! We’re sharing the inside scoop.
A Beacon of Hope: Tampa General’s Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Program
Get to know The Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH’s Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Program which provides top-notch care and cutting-edge treatments for its patients.
Middle School at Corbett Prep: Building Strong Foundations for Emotional and Academic Success
The middle school years can be…awkward. But, as the Runyan family of Tampa discovered, it’s actually quite the oppositive after sending their kids to middle school at Corbett Prep.
Kids Get in Free this Month at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor’s Complex
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is offering FREE, one-day admission to kids ages 3 – 11 during the month of September in celebration of “Future Voyagers Month”.
The BEST Things to Do Labor Day Weekend in Tampa Bay
Our team of local parents has curated this list of awesome things to do Labor Day weekend in Tampa Bay with the kids!
Disney Cruise Line Unveils Exciting Details for its Newest Ship, the Disney Adventure
Disney Cruise Line reveals all new details for Disney Imagination Garden on its latest ship, the Disney Adventure, scheduled to set sail from Singapore in 2025.
Let’s Play Ball: September Game Day Fun with the Kids in Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay’s pro teams are back at it and we’re showing you how to experience all the game day fun with kids!
Local Students Learn the Science of Monster Trucks During a STEM Field Trip to Monster Jam in Tampa
Imagine Monster Jam colliding with the first week of school and your classroom for the day becomes Amelia Arena. TGIF had a whole new meaning for these junior high school students!
Tampa Bay Sun FC: Ready to Kick Off a History-Making Season
The Tampa Bay Sun Football Club is kicking off its inaugural season this Sunday, August 18, bringing the highest level of professional women’s sports ever to the Tampa Bay Area. We’re getting to know head coach Denise Schilte-Brown as we talk women’s sports, motherhood, and her love of Tampa Bay.
The Best Weekly Classes and Open Play for Toddlers and Preschoolers in Tampa Bay
Tampa has changed and grown so much over the past few years of raising my daughters (ages 2 & 4). By now there are a TON of new options for toddlers since the end of the Covid/lockdown era and our littles are loving all the new playtime offerings. From long-time Tampa favorites like Carrollwood’s Little…
BACK TO SCHOOL Lunchbox Meal Ideas!
As we head back to school, Jenny P. of @LunchBoxMafia is sharing some super easy lunchbox meal ideas, delicious recipes and packing tips.
A Healthy & Seasonal Sensation: Grilled Chicken Panzanella Salad
Bread, salad, and grilled chicken—does it get any better? This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It’s an ideal option for a late-summer healthy seasonal meal, especially during August when the Tampa Bay area is still sizzling hot! Using my indoor electric grill for this recipe has been a game-changer, but you can…
Discover the Magic of Eric Carle at the Glazer Children’s Museum
This summer, the Glazer Children’s Museum invites Tampa families to dive into the whimsical world of Eric Carle with the “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit.” On display through Sept. 8, this enchanting exhibit brings the beloved author and illustrator’s vibrant stories to life, promising an unforgettable adventure for visitors…
Back to school tips from Maggie and the Moms’ experts
It’s hard to believe, but our kids will be going back to school this month. Summer always goes by too quickly (if you ask them), and adjusting to the new schedule takes time. To help you and your children navigate the transition as smoothly as possible, some Maggie and the Moms’ panelists use their areas…
Study Smarter with Help Now and World Book Online
As students return to school, parents aim to provide the best educational resources to support their children’s learning and development. In today’s digital age, the Hillsborough County Public Library offers two outstanding tools that can significantly enhance your child’s academic journey: Brainfuse-Help Now and the World Book Online. Both databases and others are free of…
Kids to Know: Sailor Garfield, Anderson O’Kelley, Reagan Leung, Ruby Nolan, Haydon Swanson
In preparation for summer break, most students across Tampa Bay anticipate what the season means for them: vacation travel, athletic camps, beach days, pool time, late nights and no homework. But for five rising sixth and seventh grade girls, this was the time to host their fourth annual lemonade stand to raise money for local…
Advice for Incoming 6th Graders – From Those Who Have Been There!
Hillsborough Co. Public Schools rising seventh and eighth graders are sharing practical (and adorable!) advice they have for incoming sixth graders.
Moms to Know: Ambika Agrawal, Ambika Photography
In the wizarding world of Harry Potter, a wand is a conduit that brings out the energy of a magical person and manifests it in the physical world in the shape of what they may be casting or creating. This is also true for Ambika Agrawal and her camera, a tool that blends the creative…
The Clock Starts Yesterday: 8 tips to kick off the college application process for high schoolers (or middle schoolers)
I remember being at Gymboree with my oldest (many moons ago) when a mom asked me, “Where do you think your son will go to high school?” In the sleep-deprived era of toddlerhood, I wanted to say, “Lady, I am so tired and I don’t even know what we are having for dinner, much less…