Parenting
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Special to SW FL Parent & Child
Autism: Taking a different path
For the first time ever, I was looking at families walking alongside ours thinking how lucky and fortunate they were. My youngest son, Matias had been diagnosed with the Autism Spectrum Disorder, just three days before. Read more
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Most popular baby names of 2019 (so far) are surprisingly different
Every now and then, way down at the bottom of the list, a new name will pop up from one year to the next. But rarely do you see two, refreshingly distinct names, like Posie for a girl, and Milo for a boy, take the No. 1, spot. Read more
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Brian Tietz
Art matters
It’s why we look at one thing and not another. It’s often why we buy one product over its competitors. It not only entertains, art communicates to us and guides us. Read more
Special to SW FL Parent & Child
'My brother has autism'
How one Southwest Florida family adjusts to an autism diagnosis. Read more
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New poll says parents are killing kids' life skills
Bribing SAT proctors, paying off college officials and lying about kids' athletic credentials is illegal, but a new poll show it's also part of a pattern of today's parents taking control so their children succeed and avoid disappointment and failure Read more
Nancy Loughlin
Kids’ guide to surviving gossip
Southwest Florida author Nancy Next shares an excerpt from her book “Trash Talk: Words Matter” Read more
Brian Tietz
Go play outside!
Warm sun on my skin. A cool breeze. These are the days that make visitors fall in love with Southwest Florida (and make me want to play hooky). But these days are numbered. Read more
Special to SW FL Parent & Child
Kids' smart watch born in Fort Myers
iGPS based in Fort Myers recognized as a national leader in wearable technology. Read more
Special to SW FL Parent & Child
Grandparents take on an important role
Grandparents today are taking a larger role in the lives of their grandchildren, sharing their worries and joys, giving them love and support, and helping out harried and exhausted parents. Read more
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Vaping is on the rise among teens
Teen use of e-cigarettes is on fire here in Southwest Florida, and kids are finding clever ways to hide it from parents. Read more
Special to SWFL Parent & Child
My kids’ sports taught me a lot about myself
Parents always say how much they learn about themselves when they have kids. So true. But when my kids started playing sports, the learning progressed to a whole new level. Read more
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How to deal with mean kids
It’s a tough world out there. When a child has been the target of unkind words or behavior, it’s easy for parents to jump straight into protective mode. This is actually the last thing we should be doing. Read more
Brian Tietz
Go on, give in
Sometimes peer pressure can be a good thing — when that thing you’re being pressured to do is good. Maybe it’s eating healthy because all your friends are doing it or getting organized because everyone is obsessed with Marie Kondo’s "Tidying Up." Read more
Things to Do
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Safe Kids Day fun helps protect children
The Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, the Safe Kids Southwest Florida Coalition and community sponsors are hosting a Safe Kids Day on Saturday, April 27. Read more
Special to SW FL Parent & Child
Sculptures at zoo inspire 'I spy' art game among kids
Part art, part ecology lesson, part scavenger hunt, kids are loving this exhibit at the Naples Zoo. Read more
Andrea Melendez
Go egg-static with these egg hunts and other spring and Easter events
Southwest Florida parks, churches and organizations host numerous egg hunts and other spring and Easter-themed events this month. Read more
Baby Boot Camp
Certified fitness professionals instruct exercise classes for pregnant, postnatal and ultra-fit moms every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday in WINK Playland. Read more
Apr 26, 2019
Inside the Homes Tours
This tour offers an opportunity to take a sneak peek inside normally closed areas of Thomas Edison’s and Henry Ford’s winter estate homes. Tour is about 90 minutes; however, visitors should allow additional time to see the museum, lab and gardens. Read more
Apr 26, 2019
Family Night at IMAG
Explore the IMAG History and Science Center after dark with extended hours until 8 p.m. All exhibits remain open, including the Sea-to-See Touch Tank and Virtual Fort Myers, and there will be a special evening showing of "Meet the Keeper." Read more
Apr 26, 2019
Smoke on the Water Barbecue Competition and Music Festival
Enjoy barbecue, music and fun for the whole family. Read more
Apr 26, 2019