LA County Health officials have at long last announced that parks and playgrounds around Los Angeles can reopen, after a closure of more than six months for the relentless COVID-19 pandemic. It's not surprising that all over the Southland parents are scrambling for shoes and asking each other "Where? When??" The problem is that, as encouraging as the October 5 announcement sounds, practical answers to "Which playground??" are not so easy to come by. But go ahead and find that other shoe, because some playgrounds have already begun reopening.

We’re all spending more time at home these days, so toys are playing an even more critical role in entertaining, delighting, and educating our kiddos. This holiday season might be a bit quieter, a bit more low-key, but I suspect it makes us all want to spoil our kids as much as possible, surprising them with the perfect holiday and Christmas wish list pick. 

We’ve scoured all of the online lists, from Amazon to Scholastic, reviews, and guides to bring you the best of the best holiday toys for the season. These popular items are sure to entertain and win you major points for getting everything on their Christmas wish list and more. We’ve included toys and electronics from favorites like Legos, Barbie, Disney, and even a few new favorites. Go ahead and shop your heart out! 

My kids know fall is my season. Warm sunny days and crisp nights, the brilliant hues of changing leaves, apple picking, and all things pumpkin make autumn uniquely enjoyable. The Fall Escape, an all-new outdoor exhibition at the Queens County Farm Museum, captures the season's magic and whimsy. The farm, one of our beloved NYC institutions, has partnered with The Floral Escape to bring to life this stunning installation celebrating the beauty of autumn.

Read on for details on the brightly hued, flower-filled, photo-friendly exhibit, and be sure to check out our Fall Fun Guide for more fun ways to enjoy the season.

"Halloween is on," declared Governor Phil Murphy at Monday's COVID-19 press conference. The New Jersey governor made the declaration as the state department of health released its full Halloween 2020 safety guidelines for Jersey families, schools, and organizations.

The state is not banning trick-or-treating, but rather asking the public to modify the format to reduce contact with those not in your household. It's also encouraging proper mask wearing and outdoor Halloween activities instead of indoor events.

Late last month, the CDC ruled trick-or-treating, and most Halloween activities, as high-risk unless strict social distancing can be observed.

Do you have a child who loves adventure—or who can often be found scaling walls or scrambling up trees? While a family hike is always a great outlet for these high-energy kiddos, you might want to up the ante with a day trip to an outdoor zip line course or ropes course in Connecticut. Our state is home to a number of zip line courses with a range of age-appropriate challenges that will excite thrill-seekers young and old. 

What if the weather is cold or wet? Kids can put their climbing skills to the test at It Adventures Ropes Course in New Haven, or monkey around at these Connecticut indoor obstacle courses instead. 

Do you have a child who loves adventure—or who can often be found scaling walls or scrambling up trees? While a family hike is always a great outlet for these high-energy kiddos, you might want to up the ante with a day trip to an outdoor zip line course or ropes course around Boston. Massachusetts is home to a number of zip line courses with a range of age-appropriate challenges that will excite thrill-seekers young and old. 

What if the weather is cold or wet? Kids can monkey around at these Boston-area indoor obstacle courses instead. 

As we all embark on the school year, let's not forget about the importance of eye health. Most eye doctors recommend that kids get a comprehensive eye exam each year to help identify any possible conditions. Children diagnosed with nearsightedness or "myopia"—a common condition that makes distance vision blurry—may be able to benefit from advances in myopia management that slow its progression, making early diagnosis that much more meaningful.

Read on to find out what parents need to know to ensure their kids are getting the best eye care for lifelong vision health—and to learn about Brilliant Futures™ Myopia Management Program with MiSight® 1 day contact lenses, a new option available for age appropriate children dealing with myopia.

The CDC might be warning against trick-or-treating in 2020, but there are elements of Halloween that seem ready-made for our new pandemic lifestyles. After all, it is one of the few holidays that takes place almost entirely outdoors and includes the option to wear a mask. Win.

We've rounded up 10 top spots to shop for Halloween face masks for kids. Wear them all month long or as a costume accessory on the big night.