I remember receiving some electrical socket covers as a baby shower gift - the women around me were so excited, “You are going to need those” I heard several times. Then there was that time I texted a photo of my daughter rolling over and received a text from my mom stating something along the lines of “time to put up the baby gates”.   “I’ve got time”, I thought to myself. 

I realized I ran out of time when I shared some video of my daughter taking her first steps and the Internet responded with “now the fun starts!” Except, it wasn’t fun. All of a sudden my comfortable home became a deathtrap. I was sure that every edge of furniture would lead to my beautiful baby’s demise. Short of wrapping my baby girl in bubble tape, I knew it was time to call in the professionals. From fireplace guards to full blown playroom design, these local Fairfield County companies will ease your mind and provide a safe space for your child to develop and grow. 

“Let’s just have a simple in-house party” are my famous last words. Some party hats, cake, and pizza are all these kids need for a good time, right? Anyone else out there start off with the best intentions, then get hit with the harsh reality that entertaining a horde of sugared-up and party-crazed kids is far from simple? I've realized that sometimes it takes a little outside the box thinking to entertain even the pickiest of critics (aka: your kid.)

Here's a simple solution: host the party at home, but outsource the entertainment (and maybe even the decor!) Below are several outfits that will come to your home and put on an extraordinary party that goes beyond clowns and face painting.  From circuses to hula hoops, there is something for everyone. For more party ideas check out our Party Guide!

Sure, we all like to take our kid to the zoo, aquarium, library story time, or children’s museum. But, some weekends I just wake up and think, “why should kids get to have all the fun?”  That’s where this list comes in handy - I have scoured all four corners of this fine state to compile this list of “Family Friendly Breweries”.

Connecticut’s fantastic food trucks are on heavy rotation at many of these establishments, but each of these breweries packs a little “something special” for families. The criteria for this list is pretty simply: 1) good beer 2) good times 3) a little “something” to entertain the kiddos while you imbibe in 1 & 2.  From fun farm tours and artisanal snacks to giant Jenga and a bevy of boardgames, the breweries and brew pubs on this list have gone the extra mile to accommodate every member of your family - sometimes even those four-legged fur babies! For more info on great family restaurants make sure to check out our Restaurant Guide.