Bristol

Free Spray Parks, Splash Pads, and Fountains for Kids in Hartford County

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Sun, 05/19/2019 - 8:25pm

Just because Hartford County is centrally located doesn't mean that you have to venture very far to enjoy the water. Even though waves and beach sand are not in close proximity, there are still plenty of options to enjoy water play in lakes, pools, water parks, and splash pads. If you’re looking to cool down in the hot summer months, check out one of these fun locations. Best of all, like so many of our Mommy Poppins faves, they're free, so there's no need to bring your wallet (just towels and sunscreen)!

Top 12 Playgrounds and Parks for Family Fun in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Fri, 05/03/2019 - 11:20am

Sometimes we get so busy with our regular routines that we forget to do one of the most important and healthy things with our children: get outside! Spending time in the sunshine and among the trees is so healthy for kids (and parents) physically, mentally, and even emotionally. With nicer weather upon us, everyone’s itching to escape the house, and if you live anywhere near the Greater Hartford area, you're downright spoiled with outdoor options to choose from. Here are a dozen of our favorite parks and playgrounds to spend time as a family.

45 Unmissable Things to do with Kids in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Fri, 04/12/2019 - 8:38pm

Smack in the middle of the state, Hartford County is a place you'll probably have lots of occasions to pass through even if you don't live nearby. Luckily, this county, the second most populous in Connecticut, is packed with museums, parks, and other attractions that are worth a stop for a morning or afternoon. While there are many more things to do with kids than this 50-item list shares, we have collected some unmissable places and events Connecticut has to share. Whether you and the brood are in the mood to learn, soak up nature, or get some exercise, this list has a family fun idea for you.

24 Family Friendly New Year's Eve Celebrations in Connecticut

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 2:00pm

I have crossed over. Dreams of elegant parties and midnight champagne toasts have been replaced with longing for easy bedtimes and a good night's sleep. But it feels wrong not to celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another without some sort of revelry. Happily, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate New Year's Eve together as a family: no baby sitter required! Whether you're interested in skating, swimming, or roller skating; there's something for everyone.

For more great ideas to finish up 2018 and make plans for 2019, be sure to check our frequently updated events calendar.

Indoor Play Areas in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sun, 11/25/2018 - 11:03am

Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean that you and your family have to go into hibernation. There are some great indoor play spaces in the Hartford area where your active child can burn off excess energy by climbing, bouncing, running, and jumping. He or she might even take a nap for you later! We've also compiled a list of indoor play places specifically for big kids in Hartford County. For even more indoor fun check out our Connecticut Indoor Play Guide.

Halloween Events in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Sun, 10/07/2018 - 3:41pm

Holy Howling Halloween! The spookiest time of the year is quickly approaching and families are planning the best way for their little ghouls to enjoy the season. If you live near the Hartford-area, there are many not-so-scary events to squeeeeze into your creepy calendar. And of course, don't forget to check out Mommy Poppins' Ultimate Fall Guide.

10 One Mile or Less Hikes to Take with Your Preschooler in Connecticut

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Sun, 05/13/2018 - 7:48pm

While Connecticut has hundreds of hiking trails crisscrossing the state, the trails aren’t always suitable for little legs and little feet. So your preschooler may not be ready for Sleeping Giant’s blue trail or Southford Fall’s tower trail however, they will just love exploring the outdoors on these 10 kid-friendly hikes we’ve uncovered. Here are some 1-mile-or-less hikes that are just enough for the youngest of hikers - teaching the invaluable lesson that it is the journey, not the destination. And maybe they’ll catch a frog or two.

11 Spring Fairs & Festivals in Central Connecticut

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Sun, 04/15/2018 - 12:00pm

April showers bring May flowers, and along with all the colorful blossoms come an array of springtime celebrations. The Hartford and New Haven areas are bursting with exciting outdoor family festivals in April, May, and June. These eleven events feature crafts, delicious treats, family-friendly activities, and boundless fun. So head outside with the children and enjoy all that spring in Central Connecticut has to offer.

Winter Break Fun in CT

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Fri, 02/16/2018 - 7:16pm

This winter break stay busy with one (or all) of the following activity ideas in your area. There are so many fun options to choose from that you'll be sure to find one that you and your family will enjoy.

Also don't forget to check out our Winter Guide of Activities.

The Top 10 Things to do with Preschoolers this Holiday Season

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Tue, 11/14/2017 - 11:38am

From Pinterest-perfect teacher presents to waiting online for those coveted tickets, the Christmas season can be, well, stressful. There's the Christmas parties, the Christmas cards, and then the presents. And the shopping for the presents. We all seriously need a vacation by 5 p.m. on December 25th. But, when you see those little faces light up when they see the guy in red or when they come across an actual living, breathing reindeer, or when they hear that whistle blow. Every second is worth it. We've rounded up the top 10 things to do with your preschooler during the holidays. So get out there and embrace the magic of the season and make yourself some memories to last a lifetime. Be sure to check out our CT Holiday Guide for even more holiday fun.