My Unpopular Opinion: Kids Shouldn’t Have Cell Phones

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on

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

Jessica Laird's picture Submitted by Jessica Laird on

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.

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

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on

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.

Rome with Kids: 23 Best Things To Do in Rome, Italy

Submitted by Jamie Davis Smith on

There is nothing quite like zipping around Rome on a Vespa while a guide explains the city’s rich history.

Rome, Italy—also known as the Eternal City—is home to ancient attractions, delicious gelato, and some of the most incredible art in the world. Rome also captures the imaginations of kids who can step into the shoes of Gladiators and indulge in pizza in the country where it was invented.

The list of things to do in Rome can be overwhelming, but we're here to help! When it Rome, here are the best things to do with kids.

Looking for more European adventures in cities like London or Paris? Check out our Europe Travel Guide for Families.

The Georgia State Fair Welcomes Families for Fall Fun

Rebecca Ruffin Leffler's picture Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on

The largest fair in Atlanta is back! Photo courtesy of the Georgia State Fair via Shutterstock

The Georgia State Fair, the oldest fair in the state, is an annual tradition guaranteed to entertain the entire family from toddlers to teenagers to adults. With cooler temps in Atlanta, be to block some time off to visit the Georgia State Fair running this fall. We’ve got the scoop on everything you need to know to make your visit to this year’s Georgia State Fair terrific!

Use our Fun Fall Guide for Atlanta Kids for even more opportunities to enjoy the season, by visiting corn mazes, apple orchards, and more! And sign up for our free Mommy Poppins newsletters to stay up to date on exciting activities throughout the rest of the year in Atlanta. 

35 Things To Do with Preschoolers and Toddlers in Orlando Before They Turn 5

Submitted by Charlotte B on

Orlando toddlers and preschoolers will have a wonderful time at Peppa Pig Theme Park.

Orlando toddlers and preschoolers—it's time to party! While it may seem that most of the fun things to do in Orlando are geared toward big kids and teenagers, there are PLENTY of toddler and preschooler activities nearby.

As a mom raising young kids in Central Florida, I can relate to the need to find scaled-down theme park rides for preschoolers, toddlers, and young kids, as well as free, low-key visits to playgrounds. Read on for the top things to do with preschoolers and toddlers in Orlando, from rides and zoos to splash pads and indoor activities, too!

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