It's that time of year again – Back-to-School, which means it's time to go shopping for back-to-school supplies! There are plenty of boring back-to-school lists out there that have the typical pencil case, crayons, and a backpack. That's not what this list is.

This Back-to-School season, we've talked with a veteran teacher and several moms to come up with favorite lesser-known items that we think deserve a place in your Back-to-School shopping cart. From noise-canceling headphones to erasable pens that really work, we come up with a list of unique essentials.

Whether your little one is starting kindergarten or heading back to elementary school, we've got you covered with a list of cool back-to-school supplies that will make the upcoming school year a breeze. For more Back-to-School ideas, like lunches kids actually like or first day of school traditions, check out our Back-to-School Guide.

The NYC Parks Department's FREE swimming lessons have returned for the summer season, and we have the details to get you—and your child—back in the pool. These FREE swimming lessons require entering an online lottery for each session, which run year-round in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Registration is now open for the FREE summer swimming lessons.

Read on for the details on where to swim for FREE, or check our directory of paid kids' swim classes, and mommy-and-me swim lessons for babies and toddlers.

Woah! Stop the presses: Amazon Prime Day is July 8-11 this year, for four full days of summer savings. While all the deals won't be available until Prime Days, we've rounded up our favorite early deals at Amazon's biggest sale of the year that parents and kids adore, to help you know where to look first!

It's right in line with our theme this summer: it's a Summer of Savings for parents and families.

Every year, the Amazon Prime Day(s) sale has some of the best deals and lowest prices of the year. I've done a ton of research and have been asking friends and coworkers to determine which of the sale items are really worth the money. These are huge brands, beloved products, toys, and home hacks that make parenting easier. 

While we can't know everything that will be on sale yet, here are the early announced deals we're tracking... come back during Prime Day (week!) to see what we add! Some deals are live early, some are available only during the sale days.

For more favorite products we have tested and love, check out our recommendations for the best backyard toys, the coolest pool floats for kids, and the very best beach gear for families.

Not every summer day can be a sunny beach day, even at the Jersey Shore—but there are plenty of indoor spots where families can find rainy day fun.

From Asbury Park to Cape May, we've put together a list of Shore activities that will get you off the beach and out of your condo or hotel room. So whether the rain is spoiling your beach day or you need a change from the sand and surf, we have you covered.

For more entertaining activities this season, check our list of 100 Best Things To Do at the Shore all summer and see our itinerary for 3 Days on the Jersey Shore with Kids.

New York City is one of the most bustling places in the world, which can make outings with any child tough, but things get particularly tricky for parents of kids on the autism spectrum, who might worry about overstimulation in even the most kid-friendly settings. That’s why many museums and cultural centers have created comfortable, sensory-friendly, safe spaces for families with special needs to explore, often in tandem with educators and specialists.

We’ve gathered up the best of the bunch, from programs at The Met and Intrepid Museum to an after-school Subway Sleuths program, as well as several FREE options. Peruse our NYC Special Needs Guide for more helpful tips and local programs.

The newly remodeled and rebranded Beach House Fort Lauderdale is an ideal choice for a family stay alongside the city's iconic oceanfront. Enjoy large rooms, family-friendly dining, and two great kids clubs.

Nashville, Tennessee—also known as Music City—is a mix of southern charm and modern hipness. Plus, there are so many things to do in Nashville with kids—outdoor adventures, interesting museums, distinct country sounds, and more. I travel to visit my brother and his family in Nashville at least once a year, and I have fallen in love with the magic of the city.

Here are 62 things to do in Nashville, TN with kids, including kid-friendly Nashville restaurants and the best Nashville hotels for families.

For even more great places to stay in Nashville in our list of the best Nashville hotels and resorts for families. And, as always, visit our Family Travel Guide for more family vacation inspiration.

Head to Powder Ridge in CT for Summer fun in 2025!