My Unpopular Opinion: Kids Shouldn’t Have Cell Phones

How should parents navigate children’s exposure to technology?

Here is my unpopular opinion: kids shouldn’t have cell phones.

As much as a kids' cell phone might seem like the ultimate tool for staying connected, a growing body of research shows that a cell phone for kids—especially a smartphone—can have negative effects on brain development, mental health, academic performance, and more.

"But my kid NEEDS a cell phone to keep them safe." I strongly disagree! Read on to see why I think that...and how to solve these problems without a cell phone.

Save On Top-Rated New York City Outings and Experiences for Kids and Families

Groupon's online marketplace offers tons of discounts on activities for kids and families.

Find tons of daily discounts on the top New York City kid activities and family experiences in Groupon’s online marketplace.

NYC is certainly a fun-filled city–but it’s an expensive one too! And we all know keeping costs down when you’ve got kids to keep busy is no easy feat. If you’re looking for New York City activities and outings for the whole family that won’t break the bank, we’ve rounded up some of Groupon’s best deals on top-rated experiences. Take a look at these 4- and 5-star-rated deals that’ll help you save on everything from zoos to movie tickets to tours of iconic NYC landmarks.

Where to Play Pickleball, Tennis, and Other Paddle Sports in NYC

During the summer CityPickle's outdoor courts transform Wollman Rink into a pickleball paradise. Photo by Jody Mercier

After the drama of the Summer Olympics and the thrill of the US Open, paddle sports are gaining in popularity. More people are picking up pickleball in NYC, plus other paddle sports, and enjoying their own fast-paced matches. If you're ready to dive into the action, check out the best places to play pickleball in NYC this season, plus some top picks for playing indoor tennis with kids in NYC. We've even got an entire list of the best tennis classes in NYC for kids to give you even more options to hit the courts with kids.

Best Baby Classes in Chicago: Mommy & Me, Baby Yoga, and More

Wiggleworms! Photo by Dan Kasberger for the Old Town School of Folk Music

Chicago's baby and toddler classes give parents and little ones something enriching to do before preschool starts. Chicago parents can choose from dozens of mommy & me and parent & me classes for babies, from swimming lessons to yoga classes, dance classes, and outdoor activities. Many of these classes require parental involvement, but some have drop-off classes available as children get older. These classes provide great opportunities for the littlest of kids to learn lifelong skills.

Check our guide to the Best Classes for Kids in Chicago for more kids' activities and programs.

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