Between after-school activities, homework, and work commitments, finding time for a family dinner can feel impossible. Yet sharing a meal together—even just a few times a week—offers lasting rewards. Research shows that kids who regularly eat with their families enjoy…
The pandemic’s consequences on young people’s mental health has been significant. But Jessica Russell, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with Thriveworks, is encouraged to see more kids and teens discussing their mental health as a result. For the…
The way many children with autism perceive the world around them is often distorted. What may seem like an ordinary smell, sight, sound, touch, taste, or movement to you and me might go unnoticed or seem threatening and noxious to…
Lily Barnes is our 11-year-old resident kid baker. Each month she shares an original recipe that kids can make at home with their parents, plus a few behind-the-scenes tips and tricks to make your treat extra special. Here is Lily’s…
When the owners of a lakefront home in Cornelius wanted a designated play place for their three young daughters, the team at Aguilar Design Studio in Cornelius came to their rescue. Aaron and Laura Aguilar, the spouses and owners behind…
In 2016, Krista St-Germain became a widow and single parent of two children overnight after a drunk driver killed her husband. “Being a single parent can be overwhelming,” she says. “You are the only person taking on the parenting load.…
Deluxe Easter Surprise Balls. Unwind layers of colorful crepe paper ribbons to reveal 12 mini prizes inside. Available at Paper Skyscraper, 330 East Blvd. PLUS PLUS. This STEM construction toy has kept…
Primland Resort is a two and a half hour drive from Charlotte and puts you in the heart of southern Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The last 20 minutes take you through some winding mountain roads (pack dramamine if the kiddos…
When our son Ben grew too large to be carried from his wheelchair to the beach, we wondered how we’d manage future trips to the shore. His favorite pastime is splashing at the ocean’s edge, and we didn’t want him…
GET YOUR SWEETS AND SNACK FIX Check out Sips & Dips, a new family-owned soda shop that opens April 2 at Promenade on Providence. Get customizable sodas, (think syrups, creams and fresh citrus garnishes), sparkling water refreshers with fresh fruit…
Each month, our 8-year-old resident foodie visits a different Charlotte-area restaurant that’s kid-friendly—but not a kid-topia. He orders something he’s never tried before and reports back with his recommendations for kids and their parents. Here is his review of Fat…
A "know before you go" guide
Most of us mistakenly think self-confidence comes from reaching our goals and meeting expectations. It makes sense. Since childhood, we’ve been inundated with messages about who we should be, which leads to a relentless strive for external validation. The…
Lily Barnes is our 10-year-old resident kid baker. Each month she shares an original recipe that kids can make at home with their parents, plus a few behind-the-scenes tips and tricks to make your treat extra special. Here is…
Q: How do I talk with my kids about what’s happening in Ukraine? –Veronica A: When COVID deaths were rampant, parents asked how to explain the sadness to their kids. When 2020 Presidential debates highlighted name-calling, parents asked how…
Known as the “Godfather of Small Ball,” Muggsy Bogues is famous for being the shortest player ever to play in the NBA. At just five-foot-three, he dominated as the starting point guard during his 10 seasons with the Charlotte Hornets.…
After two years of limited contact with extended family and friends, you’re probably overdue for a visit. If a beach vacation or mountain getaway is in your plans, consider these four destinations for a big group. Bald Head Island, North…
When her longtime clients wanted to update their children’s bedrooms, Hadley Quisenberry was already familiar with their Cotswold home. The owner and principal designer of West Trade Interiors had worked alongside her mother and business partner Lisa Britt to renovate…
Myrtle Beach, also known as the Grand Strand, stretches 60 miles along the South Carolina coast and encompasses 14 different communities, each with their own identity and attractions. Kids can enjoy mini golf, pirate shows, and the beach boardwalk, while…
If a traditional family getaway isn’t in your plans this spring break, you can still have a week of fun and relaxation in your hometown. Below is a roundup of thematic staycations to help you ditch your day-to-day routine…
CATCH AN OUTDOOR LIGHT DISPLAY Visit the Rail Trail from March 4 - 20 and experience I Heart Rail Trail: Lights, an interactive light installation that returns to South End for the third consecutive year. For 16 days, the stretch…
