Evergreen

Meet Mickey at Walt Disney World - Image credit Walt Disney World - Disney Photo Pass

Where to Meet Mickey, Disney Princesses, and MORE at Walt Disney World

It doesn’t matter how old you are. Whenever you see Mickey Mouse, you can’t help but smile. Interacting with and meeting Disney characters is a must when visiting Walt Disney World. However, finding them can sometimes be challenging. Get your camera and autograph book ready because we did the work for you, breaking down where…

kids can volunteer at Feeding Tampa Bay
|

How to Volunteer with the Kids in Tampa Bay: 10+ ways to give back

We’re sharing ways you can volunteer with the kids in Tampa Bay to turn quality family time into give back time!

Best Ice-Cream Shops in Tampa Dairy Joy
|

The BEST Ice-Cream Shops in Tampa Bay! 

There’s no better way to cool off than a big scoop of ice-cream! We’re sharing some of the best ice-cream shops in Tampa Bay.

A Parent’s Guide to the BEST Rides at SeaWorld Orlando
|

A Parent’s Guide to the BEST Rides at SeaWorld Orlando

Our ultimate parent’s guide to the best rides at SeaWorld Orlando includes height requirements and ways to skip long lines.

The BEST Hidden Things to Do at Disney Springs with Kids
| | |

The BEST Hidden Things to Do at Disney Springs with Kids

There are plenty of things to do at Disney Springs with kids. We take a look at the best things to do with a family here.

The Best Family-Friendly Tampa Bay Waterfront Restaurants to Enjoy Around Tampa Bay
| |

The Best Family-Friendly Tampa Bay Waterfront Restaurants to Enjoy Around Tampa Bay

Looking for yummy food and good views? Then check out our list of the best family-friendly waterfront restaurants around Tampa Bay!

Keel Farms kid friendly restaurants in tampa bay
|

10+ Restaurants Where Kids Eat for Free in Tampa Bay

Dining out is fun but it can also add up! Check out our list of restaurants where kids eat free in Tampa Bay!

Experience Tampa’s Haunted History on These Spooky Ghost Tours
| | | |

Experience Tampa’s Haunted History on These Spooky Ghost Tours

Experience Tampa Theatre’s haunting history and other chilling ghost stories of some of Tampa Bay’s spookiest spots.

RSV

The 411 on RSV | What you need to know about this common virus

 We’re catching up again with Dr. John Prpich, BayCare Kids Pediatric Pulmonologist and Medical Director of Pediatric Respiratory Care at St Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, to learn more about RSV and a groundbreaking new medicine just approved for use in all infants to prevent RSV infection.

kids and sleep
| |

Ask the Doctor: How much sleep does your child need, is melatonin safe, and more common questions

How much sleep do your kids actually need? Bobbi Hopkins, MD, a sleep expert and medical director of the Sleep Center at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital answers.

kids and social media addiction
| | |

Is your child addicted to social media? Here’s what you need to know.

Dr. Jennifer Katzenstein, Ph.D, talks about how to teach kids smart social media behavior and how to find a healthy balance.

Disney-Cruise-Line-Disney-Wish
| |

What You Need to Know Before Getting on a Disney Cruise

The best way to enjoy a Disney cruise is to be prepared. Here’s what you need to know before you and your family get on a Disney cruise.

meditations for mom
| |

A Tampa Mom’s Meditation Focused Podcast Downloaded 100 Million Times

Katie Krimitsos knows what moms need to hear to relax. Her podcasts (recorded in her closet) have been downloaded more than 100 million times.

best beaches in Tampa bay
| | |

The Best Beaches in Tampa Bay for Kids and Families

As Tampa Bay locals, we’ve spent a lot of time at the beach and we want to share some of our favorite beaches in Tampa Bay to help you map out your best day ever!

Character dining at Walt Disney World
| | |

Tips and Tricks for the Best Character Dining at Walt Disney World

Discover essential tips for booking the perfect character meal at Walt Disney World. We’re sharing locations inside the parks as well as ones that do not require any park admission!

Caladesi Island boardwalk
| | | |

How to plan your visit to Caladesi Island, one of America’s Top 10 Beaches

Caladesi Island has been named as one of the Top 10 Beaches in America in 2023 by Dr. Beach! We’re helping you plan your visit.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Other Minions Fun at Universal Orlando
| |

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Other Minions Fun at Universal Orlando

With Minions: The Rise of Gru on your kids’ list of favorite movies since its release in 2022, there are more opportunities than ever to get in on a little minion fun at Universal Orlando. Here’s everything you need to know about the main attraction, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and more minion fun at Universal Orlando…

Kiwanis Cares for Kids TreeHouse at Bonnet Springs Park
| | | |

10 Things We Love About Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland

When we say you have to see it to believe how incredible it really is, we mean it when it comes to Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland. This brand-new privately built park on the outskirts of downtown Lakeland is a new place to play in Tampa Bay and we have a feeling it will quickly…

ZooTampa Giant Tortoise Encounter is one of the best things to do with toddlers in Tampa
| |

The Best Things to Do with Toddlers and Preschoolers in Tampa Bay

With big kids going back to school, we’re showing you fun weekday activities to keep your preschooler busy in Tampa Bay.

Our Favorite Things to do With Kids During a Sanibel and Captiva Getaway
| | |

Our Favorite Things to do With Kids During a Sanibel and Captiva Getaway

Heading to Sanibel and Captiva is an easy getaway from Tampa Bay. We’ve rounded up our favorite things to do there with kids!

Family Fun Day Trip to ICON Park Orlando
| |

Family Fun Day Trip to ICON Park Orlando

Pack the kids in the car and head on I-4 for a family fun day at ICON Park Orlando. Our picks include the best things to do with kids.

Giant Tortoise Encounter at ZooTampa
|

9 Ways to Upgrade Your Day with Unforgettable Animal Encounters at ZooTampa

Give your next visit to ZooTampa a VIP twist by upgrading your day with an up-close animal encounter or backstage tour!

how to help save the monarch butterfly
|

How You Can Help Save the Monarch Butterfly

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recently put the migrating monarch butterfly on its Red List for Endangered Species.

A Parent’s Review of Orlando World Center Marriott
| |

A Parent’s Review of Orlando World Center Marriott

Orlando World Center Marriott has no shortage of fun for the whole family. We’ve got the scoop on what to do and what to know before you go!

Tradewinds St Pete Beach Aquabana
| | | | | | |

The Ultimate Beachfront Staycation: TradeWinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach

There’s no shortage of things to do at Tradewinds Island Resorts from floating cabanas and water park and so much more!

Westgate River Ranch Conestoga Covered Wagon Luxe Glamping
|

Dude Ranch Glamping in Florida at Westgate River Ranch & Rodeo

We’re dishing on all of the details to help you plan your glamping getaway at Westgate River Ranch in Florida!

Big John Triceratops Fossil Glazer Children's Museum
| | |

7+ Tampa Bay Museums Your Kids Will Love

We’re sharing our favorite museums for kids in Tampa Bay that your kiddos are sure to love! From children’s musuems to history museums, there’s something for every family on our list.

peppa pig theme park
| | | | | | |

Your Ultimate Guide to the WORLD’S FIRST Peppa Pig Theme Park

We’re sharing our favorite things about the world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park to help you plan your best day ever!

5 Reasons We LOVE Tusker House Restaurant for Disney Character Dining
| | | |

5 Reasons We LOVE Tusker House Restaurant for Disney Character Dining

When it comes to Walt Disney World Character Dining you have lots of choices. Here are five reasons we LOVE Tusker House Restaurant

1000 books before kindergarten

1,000 Books to a Love of Reading

The Library’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program proves that creating a lifelong love of reading can be as easy as 4 books per week.

Lexline Johnson
|

Kids to Know: Lexline Johnson

Winner of Apple’s prestigious Swift Student Challenge, Lexline taught herself coding, and then created her own app on quantum physics.

Dr. Amy Patenaude
|

Moms to Know: Dr. Amy Patenaude, ED.D., NCSP, A Child’s Path

What if we approached the “tough” seasons of parenting differently? Dr. Amy Patenaude is helping families make lasting positive changes.

whole family health

How to Achieve Whole Family Health with the YMCA

For many, the Y represents positive childhood memories. For the Tichenor family, it represents generational support and holistic wellness.

How to get your kids to communicate

Expert tips on how to get your kids to communicate in 2023

Hillsborough Co. Public Schools Teacher of the Year Finalists offer questions for parents to ask their kids to encourage opening up.

LEGOLAND Florida Hotels Florida resident deals
| | | |

AWESOME Kid-Friendly Hotels: LEGOLAND® Florida Resort’s Hotels

When it comes to theming and things to do, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort’s hotels are easily a top pick for family travel.

parenting tips pre-teens

How to Handle the Pre-Teen Years: Tips from a Middle School Mama

I am a new middle school mom. Yes, I teared up as he got out of the car for his first day of this new adventure, but I did try to play it cool. I am still in shock that we arrived at this milestone so quickly, but here we are. Ready or not… middle…

Karrie Mueller

Moms to Know: Karrie Mueller, Webhead Interactive, Parties With Character, Cheap Cookie Cutters, Dairy Joy

Karrie Mueller has successful businesses, three happy children and a soulmate husband. Beyond Super Mom, she’s a Mom to KNOW!

Books to gift

Great Books to Gift

When it comes to gift-buying, think of books! They can be read again and again and offer plenty of opportunities for family time. Here are suggestions for great books to gift to the young readers in your life: Birth – Preschool “Luli and the Language of Tea” by Andrea Wang – Five-Year-Old Chinese immigrant Luli…

Noah Cheong Kids to KNOW

Kids to Know: Noah Cheong

At a time of year when so much is celebrated with the holidays, it’s important to remember that so much can change in a short time…and honoring and cherishing the people- every person- around us is what makes December truly special. This is precisely why we get to know Noah Cheong, someone who has always put others first.

Alice Santana
|

Q&A with Alice Santana, Straz Center for the Performing Arts Vice President of Education and Community Engagement

Alice Santana talks about the transformational power of the performing arts and how she balances parenting with her rewarding career.

cleft lip palate

The Best Life for Logan: Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

With a bilateral cleft lip and palate diagnoses at birth, Logan’s parents knew they needed the best team of doctors in their corner.

Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital.

Logan’s Life Changing Surgery at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital to Repair a Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

When Logan was born with a complete bilateral cleft lip and palate, they sought help from Alex Rottgers, MD, a highly skilled pediatric plastic surgeon at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.

hunger

We’re Building a Future Without Hunger: Can you imagine that?

Hunger is a solvable problem – Feeding Tampa Bay has the solutions to provide greater access to food and eliminate this need.

Feeding Tampa Bay is Building a Future Without Hunger: Can you imagine that?

Of all the powerful things in this world, few move me more than a child’s imagination. From play-fighting dragons in the backyard to building a Lego empire, kids have a way of seeing life with wonder. They can be anything they want to be, building a whole world within their imagination. Every child should have…

A Parent’s Review of Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
|

A Parent’s Review of Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

What do you think is the best part of living in Central Florida? If your family is like mine, we cherish the fact that we can get away to so many spectacular destinations all around Florida. Tucked almost halfway between Tampa and Orlando is Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, formerly named Cabana Club RV Resort and Cottages….

Keel Farms kid friendly restaurants in tampa bay
| | | | | | | |

The BEST Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tampa Bay!

Don’t be afraid to take the kids out to dinner! We get it and we’ve totally been there–some restaurants just aren’t the best place for restless kids and toddlers which is why we put together this list of the best kid-friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay. Related: Our 50+ Favorite Things to Do in Tampa Bay…

Tips for Using an Express Pass at Universal Orlando

Tips for Using an Express Pass at Universal Orlando

Love theme parks but hate the lines? We used the Universal Express Pass at Universal Orlando Resort and here’s what you need to know.

Lindsay Hernandez and Julie Tingley.
|

Moms to Know: A nonprofit leader’s mission inspires meaningful holiday family traditions

Mother of three boys, Tampa Bay realtor, and founder of the Christian Michael Hernandez Foundation (CMHF), Lindsay Hernandez lives by the mission of her nonprofit in every way possible: to be a light in this world through the provision of unconditional kindness. In a month that focuses on giving and gratitude, we are thankful for…

youth sports

The Positive Power of Youth Sports

Mental health took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns, quarantines and distancing meant that outside activities like youth sports were put on hold. For some kids, sports were their outlet, their stress release and their social circle. Taking all of that away at once can certainly have a huge impact—especially at such a young…

art with kids
| | |

Great Places to Experience Art with Kids: St. Pete Edition

With its beautiful art district and tons of artist spaces, St. Pete is the perfect place to explore Fine Arts with your kids.

Victoria Reyes

Kids to Know: Victoria Reyes

A gifted creator at 13 years old, Victoria Reyes has already shown her work at an art show and started her own clothing and accessories line.

Amy Dascola

Moms to Know: Amy Dascola

A psychic medium since she was six years old, Amy Dascola experiences life, people and energy on a different level than you and I.

Kiley Williams

The Ultimate Soccer Mom: Soccer veteran Kiley Williams is grateful for a second chance after motherhood

As the oldest on her team, Kiley Williams is grateful for the second chance to pursue the passion she put on hold while having children.

Logan Ryan Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Family
| |

Logan Ryan: Gratitude for Family & Football

Logan Ryan, two-time Super Bowl champ and safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is grounded in gratitude, firm in family, and focused on football.

Childhood Diabetes
|

Sneaky Sugars: What is Diabetes and Are My Kids at Risk?

November is American Diabetes Month, a time for families to learn about childhood diabetes and ways to prevent it.

gene therapy miracle drug

The Elixir of Life: St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital administers miracle drug that saves babies from progressive neuromuscular degeneration

Thanks to a recently approved gene therapy named Zolgensma, the outlook for babies born with SMA has suddenly brightened.

Academy at the Lakes Teachers

Teachers Work on the “Hope” Team Every Day

When educators focus on Kindness, Information Literacy, Problem-Solving Mind-Sets and Optimism we are answering the needs of society.

Epilepsy

New Technology at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Helping Kids Battle Epilepsy

As a 15-year epilepsy patient, Ethan’s family recently elected a new, less-invasive surgery which has lessened the frequency of his seizures.

Fantasmic is BACK – Here’s What Parents Need to Know About This Nighttime Show
| |

Fantasmic is BACK – Here’s What Parents Need to Know About This Nighttime Show

Fantasmic is back at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here is everything parents need to know include showtimes, packages, and more.

Mental Health Day
|

Should Your Child Miss School for a Mental Health Day?

Making the case for school-aged mental health days: 50 percent of all lifetime mental health illnesses start by the adolescent years.

Barbara Tripp

Moms to Know: Chief Barbara Tripp, Tampa Fire Rescue

Chief Barbara Tripp made history in Tampa when she was sworn in as the first-ever female fire chief for Tampa Fire Rescue.

homework help
|

Library Resources for Academic Success

Get homework help with these resources from the library including live interactive tutoring, virtual science experiments, and more.

Elaine Feaster

Kids to Know: Elaine Feaster, ScoutingForBooks.com

Elaine Feaster completed the Girl Scouts Gold Award to land amongst other role-models who are making the world a better place.

Montessori Academy at Essrig Elementary

“Young Children are Capable of so much More” – The Montessori Academy at Essrig Elementary

The Montessori Academy at Essrig is a new magnet program for Hillsborough County Public Schools that seeks to develop natural interests.

safe sleep: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

6 Ways to Prevent Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome

October is sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) awareness month, which takes the lives of thousands of babies each year.

IB for Early Learning

Reasons to Choose an IB School for the Youngest Learners

Children who experience International Baccalaureate in their early years of schooling develop learning skills at higher rates than others.

Dexter Jackson community garden in Tampa
|

Growing a Garden of Impact with Former Bucs Super Bowl MVP Dexter Jackson

Dexter Jackson’s passion for plants and people collide to help make a positive and healthy impact on children’s lives in Tampa Bay.

Roasted Whisk Lizette Rivera

Caring for a Loved One with Dementia: Meet Lizette Rivera with Roasted Whisk

Lizette Rivera, founder of Roasted Whisk, shares her personal journey of caring for a loved one with Dementia to raise awareness.

Stephani Shepard Great Life is a Must alopecia awareness
|

Ask the Doctor: Raising awareness about alopecia

Many women struggle with alopecia, but don’t often talk about it, since many don’t know much about alopecia.

Social Emotional Learning Books for Kids
|

Social Emotional Development with Early Learners: A librarian’s favorite SEL books for kids

Librarian shares her favorite social emotional learning books for kids to address 5 areas of SEL available from your local public library.

Kennedy McCormick

Kids to Know: Kennedy McCormick

Riverview resident Kennedy McCormick, 16, has fed thousands of meals to people across the Bay area that struggle with food insecurity.

Marium Shariq

Moms to Know: Marium Shariq

Marium Shariq of The Chilli Apron, is sharing her passion for cooking while making family meal prep easier for busy moms (and dads).

TGH Children’s Hospital

Caring for Children: The Best of the Best at Tampa General Hospital

TGH Children’s Hospital pediatric trauma doctors and nurses recognize that each child requires unique care for a successful recovery.

Corbett Prep

Corbett Prep: Setting the Stage for Lifelong Success

For the Butts Family, Corbett Prep is more than just a school. It helped set their children on a path of success they may have never realized.

Easy At Home Chest and Back Exercises for Busy Moms
|

Easy At Home Chest and Back Exercises for Busy Moms

These chest and back exercises are perfect for busy moms. Get the list of exercises and tips on how to make them work in your busy schedule.

Hunger and Fullness Cues
|

Ask the Doctor: Understanding Hunger and Fullness Cues to Achieve a Healthy Weight

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Understanding hunger and fullness cues is essential to achieving a healthy weight.

Separation Anxiety in Children
|

Ask the Doctor: How to Handle Separation Anxiety in Children

However hard on parents, separation anxiety is a very normal part of development in many children. Normalizing it can help YOU navigate it.

Probiotics and pregnancy
|

Healthy Mom, Healthy Baby: Why Oral-Care Probiotics Matter During Pregnancy

Did you know that taking oral-care probiotics while pregnant can reduce the cavity rate in your young child for at least five years?

Home Alone Safely

Staying Home Alone Safely: Tips from BayCare’s Wellness and Safety Specialists

Many parents will have children staying home alone this fall. Here are our tips to ensure that you’ve set them up safely for success.

ymca homeschool programs

How Your Family Can Join the YMCA’s Homeschool Programs

If your children are learning from home this school year, we hope your family will join the YMCA Homeschool Program for extra enrichment! 

15 Things Kids and Adults Will Love About the NEW Disney Wish Cruise
| |

15 Things Kids and Adults Will Love About the NEW Disney Wish Cruise

The Disney Wish cruise is an incredible vessel full of Disney magic around every turn. Here are 15 things kids and adults will love.

YMCA Little Learners

Scooping Up Knowledge with the YMCA’s Little Learners Program

The YMCA’s Little Learners program provides children aged 2-5 with activities to enhance emotional, social and motor skills.

Zibby Owens

“Moms Don’t Have Time To Have Kids” by Zibby Owens

Zibby Owens has compiled an anthology of short essays written by notable authors who share their parenting experiences, insights and advice.

Emotional Intelligence

Learning for the Mind and the Heart

Emotional Intelligence (EQ) involves the development of self-control and people skills vital for success in school, work and life.

Jaime Brown

Moms to Know: Jaime Brown, Tampa Homestyles

Amidst the chaotic Tampa Bay real estate market, Jaime Brown is serving her customers, the community and her two sons most of all.

Shloke Patel

Kids to Know: Shloke Patel

Hillsborough High School student Shloke Patel’s work with sustainable agriculture could impact hunger on a global scale.

Glazer Vision Foundation

Do You See What I See? A Vision for Eye-Quality

The Glazer Vision Foundation is helping adults and children understand eye health as families gear up to send kids back to school.

How to keep school clothes looking new laundry tips
|

The Best Laundry Tips to Keep School Clothes Looking New

From markers, dirt and grass to raspberry applesauce, we’ve rounded up some helpful hints to keep those back to school clothes looking new.

YMCA sports - life lessons
|

What to know about starting youth sports with the YMCA in Tampa Bay

Learning to play within the boundaries of a game teaches invaluable life lessons that can be applied on and off the court. YMCA.

Lifelong Learning Begins With Teachers
|

Lifelong Learning Begins With Teachers

Teachers help cultivate curiosity inside and outside of the classroom, fostering a culture of education that extends long after graduation.

VPK
|

VPK: The Next Best Thing to A Magical Parenting Handbook

Florida offers FREE Voluntary Prekindergarten to all families whose child is four years old by September 1st!

Universal Resort Yes Day
|

A YES DAY with the Kids at Universal Orlando Resort

Natajassa Prose of @proseandcompany is sharing how she planned a YES DAY at Universal Studios for her kids.

Developing Leaders

How the YMCA is Developing Leaders of Tomorrow

The YMCA’s Teen Leaders Club helps kids to get involved, develop a positive sense of self, and learn what it truly means to be a leader. 

Devin White GetLive 45
| |

#GetLive with Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ #45: Devin White

Devin White talks sharing the #GetLive mindset with his son, his teammates and his Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ community.

Courtney Vermette Butter Bug Boutique

Moms to Know: Courtney Vermette, Butter Bug Boutique

Courtney Vermette’s Butter Bug Boutique helps parents discover solutions for kids while supporting purpose-driven mom-owned brands.

summer break snack time
| |

Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids with Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia

It’s summer break and you’re constantly hearing “Mom, can I have a snack?” Jenny P. from @lunchboxmafia helps us maximize snack time.

A Parent’s Review of Worlds of Marvel Restaurant with Photos
|

A Parent’s Review of Worlds of Marvel Restaurant with Photos

The Worlds of Marvel restaurant is unlike any dining experience by Disney, especially for Marvel fans. Here’s what parents need to know.

Disney Wish characters
| | |

5 Things We LOVE about Disney Wish Kids Clubs

The Oceaneer Club on Disney Wish, the newest Disney Cruise ship, is amazing. Here’s how it is different from other Disney kids clubs.

sharing history and culture

Sharing Our History and Culture with Our Children with the Local Library

Share and discover more about our community’s diversity, history and culture with your local Library’s Discovery Pass program!