Play

I know you’ve suggested things for kids to do indoors, but what about board games? Is that too old fashioned?IsabelDear Isabel,I love your question and it brought up something I hadn’t thought about in years, which is that I remember my brother and I getting so excited when our dad played chess and Othello with us – so much so, in fact – that I did the same with my daughter on many week nights before bed and it was a lovely moment of the day.

From accessible sensory gardens to actual dragon-and-castle themed spots, these are the most fun picks for littles to play.

These stars lead with empathy, boldness, and a whole lot of fun for littles.

From the importance to cultural legacies to the celebrations that make life so vibrant, Raakhee Mirchandani shares her experience as a mother.

Geocaching? Group texts? Screens really can be a source of good.

From a sensory bin to a rock climbing kit to a projector that can be used outdoors, we picked out toys and gadgets to match every interest and every age.

I spoke to my dog trainer for his best tips on integrating a new dog into your home.

Improve everyone’s literacy while having fun! (And some of these games are free, too.)

These tricks work for little ones AND caregivers!

There’s no need to sacrifice fun, even while staying cautious. Here, ideas to get the whole family adventuring or relaxing in fresh new ways.

Home is not just a building; it's a collection of traditions passed down through generations of builders, homemakers, and artists.

Take the burden off the morning hustle with these ideas to prep the night before.

One of my secrets? Color-coding the whole process.

Nutritious snacks, adorable apparel, and so many more Black-owned brands we can't wait to shop.

There's a lot to be gained by turning DIY projects into family affairs.

I love Valentine’s Day because it is all about love and romance for my husband and me, but what can I do with my children? LucielDear Luciel, I am glad that you find Valentine’s Day loving and romantic! So many get overwhelmed by the commercial messaging that it can dampen the spirits, but I’m with YOU! It’s an odd “Hallmark” holiday and one that you really can make anything you want, so why not make it great? Children LOVE their parents.

This piece was created for Cubby, our weekly newsletter for families at home. Want more? Sign up here for a weekly splash of fun and good ideas for families with kids. Join us over on Instagram for more! Anyone else fall down a baby-photo black hole every once in a while? And when I say once in a while, I actually mean a few times a month.

Chocolate painting, heart-shaped sun-catchers, scavenger hunts, and more themed activities to while away the chilly days.

In these troubled times, it's handy to have a few in your medicine cabinet. Here's where to buy them.

We put together a list of the best page-turners about Black history, empowerment, and more. 

In time for Valentine's Day, we have a coloring page for the littles that also folds up into a sweet card for their loved ones.

No more messy Barbie box.

Minutes of set-up equals hours of fun (and learning)!

I was NOT prepared for how much we'd all laugh while playing this.

They're timeless and easily accessible for little ones — but also magical enough to capture the fun of reading.

From separation anxiety to fear of the dark, worries are common in kids. This is how some families helped their little ones feel in control.

These two words will open up the conversation almost every time.

Each book teaches kids how to live boldly and proudly in their beautiful bodies.

From baby teethers to teen accessories, these affordable gifts will bring on all the heart-eyes.

These 8 items are the true must-haves for any baby or toddler parent!

It's the easiest game-changer we have ever found.

Cute home goods, cozy outfits, and even a portable stuffie set for the stylish kiddo.

From the strictly practical to the aspirational: Here are my takeaways!

Saturday and Sunday are for serious slacking. Check out the things bringing families peace, joy, and mini pancakes.

This Palm Springs paradise was surprisingly easy (and affordable).

There's an engaging new show for every age. Queue 'em up!

Themed, reversible, and wipeable — these fun mats serve double duty as toys AND decor.

Dr. Risa Hoshino gives us her expert thoughts on the future of kids' health, and what parents can do to prepare.

Here are my handiest tips — including one trade secret involving ... marshmallows?!

This homeowner shows us how to artfully wrangle toys and get savvy with the space we have.

My son relies on this app for purchases — and I love it because he's empowered to spend (and save!) all on his own.

Switch it up this season with gifts that are pre-loved, yet full of meaning.

Dr. Risa Hoshino weighs in on how to treat anxiety in kids.

It's got that retro flair — and is incredibly simple (no sewing required!). This is also a super-fun holiday activity with kids.

From the coolest Nintendo Switch accessory to a rideable unicorn on wheels, these littles give you the inside scoop on their favorite gifts.

Dr. Risa Hoshino weighs in on doable ways to prevent your child from catching all the many germs that float around in daycare and schools.

We've got the perfect game to empower them to declutter their belongings without any arguments. Bonus: this is a GREAT time to practice some before-holiday minimizing.

Just a few simple steps — and some trusty products you can grab easily — turned this underused space into one we all love.

High-quality kids' furniture and products at deep discounts? It's every parent's dream.

These are the deals flying off the virtual shelves — hurry, before they're all gone.

Calling all mini-authors, artists, and imagineers! This is the gift that won't fail to delight creative littles of almost every age.

Just three super delightful Thanksgiving pages to keep the kids busy while you cook.

From colorful jewelry trays to watercolor portraits, these ideas are brimming with creativity and fun. Let your kids give loved ones a handmade gift they'll be excited to display.

It makes the mornings SO much better — and gives that much-needed jolt of energy for parenting a newborn.

Here's everything you need to know before welcoming a dog into your family.

We've got the cutest picks around from one of our very favorite kids' brands. And they are all at steep discounts!

It helps with ouchies and looks adorable in a stocking.

Pom-pom wreaths, holiday crafts, and even matching PJs — our favorite retailer in red has it all this season.

Their adorable reactions will be an added bonus!

These are the Hanukkah gifts we’ve loved the most.

From adorable play kitchens they won't be able to resist to awesome inflatable bounce houses and tablets galore, these are Walmart's all-star deals.

From free things you can upcycle all the way to mini sinks that actually work, these play accessories will give them hours of fun.

Parents: this is THE most epic gift guide you will need this year.

This simple nightly ritual keeps us connected as a family.

Rainy afternoons home with my toddlers are turning us into absolute beasts — we’re all so grumpy and I have zero creative energy left. Any ideas for a fun indoors activity that they might not have tried yet?GraceDear Grace,As the father of one girl, I must confess that I feel I never had it THAT hard. Young girls tend to be far less restless than young boys, so I’m guessing that you have at least one boy in your home.

From doodle tiles to shrink art kits, these gifts are so unexpected that your tiny artists will think you are the coolest ever.

They'll be occupied for hours — argument-free!

Let them put their signature spin on their spaces with some of these stylish decor finds.

Want to be their very favorite? Try one of these fun new gifts!

We tapped the pros (who happen to parents themselves) for their very best tips, from choosing a photographer, finding a location, and what to do with your lovely photos afterwards.

It arrives on my doorstep, has unlimited creative possibilities, and ISN'T a toy?! Miracle.

These are the ones that truly stand up to the test for me and my kiddo.