Kids & Family

Fourth of July Events in Collier and Lee Counties 2026

This year's Fourth of July is extra special: July 4, 2026 falls on a Saturday, and the country is celebrating America 250, the 250th anniversary...

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FC Naples Father’s Day Stories: Family, Soccer, and SWFL Roots

FC Naples Father’s Day stories show how soccer in Southwest Florida is more than a game. For several FC Naples players and staff, the sport...

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Hidden Gems For Families to Explore Throughout SWFL

There are hidden gems scattered in towns and cities throughout Southwest Florida for families to explore. Beyond the beaches, zoo, and water parks are lesser-known...

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Water Safety for Kids in Collier and Lee Counties

Water safety for kids in Collier and Lee Counties starts with layers of protection. Drowning is silent, fast, and preventable. In Florida, drowning is the...

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73 Fun-Filled Summer Activities for Kids in Southwest Florida

The school year ends for students in Collier and Lee Counties on Friday, May 29, and they don’t go back until Tuesday, August 11. That’s...

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Brightwater Lagoon with Kids: A Local Mom’s Review

Planning a day at Brightwater Lagoon with kids? As a Southwest Florida mom with an 11-year-old and an 18-month-old, I can say it can be...

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Blue Star Museums 2026: Free Summer Admission for Military Families in Southwest Florida

If your family includes an active-duty service member, this summer is full of free family adventures right here in Southwest Florida. The Blue Star Museums...

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Where Kids Eat For Free (or at a Discount) in Collier and Lee Counties

Looking for where kids eat free (or at a discount) in Collier and Lee Counties? These Southwest Florida restaurant deals can help families save on...

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How Compass Hotel Naples Is Creating a More Inclusive Stay for Families

An inclusive hotel stay for autism families can feel like a small miracle. When a hotel says its staff is trained to support guests with...

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30 Easy Earth Day Activities for Kids

Every April 22, families across the globe celebrate Earth Day, and Earth Day activities for kids are a simple, meaningful way to turn the occasion...

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Pinwheels at the Pier to Commemorate National Child Abuse Prevention Month is on April 3, 2026

Save this date: April 3, 2026! Why? Because one of the most sparkling moments each spring is the “planting” of a magnificent pinwheel garden in...

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Try Your Luck With These Recipes for St. Patrick’s Day

Celebrate the holiday with these easy St. Patrick’s Day recipes, perfect for sharing with family and friends. From a classic Reuben sandwich and homemade Irish...

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Get Kids to Eat the Rainbow

Rainbows are not just for finding a pot of gold – they are also essential to good health! One of the simplest ways to improve...

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Where to Find Horseback Riding Lessons and Camps in Collier and Lee Counties

Looking for horseback riding lessons and camps in Southwest Florida? Families in Collier and Lee Counties can find beginner-friendly lessons, themed summer camps, trail rides,...

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Family-Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Events 2026 in Collier and Lee Counties

Looking for St. Patrick's Day events in Collier and Lee Counties? From Naples parades to Fort Myers festivals and Cape Coral parties, this family-friendly roundup...

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Easy Recipes for the Big Game

(Family Features) Whether you’re tailgating with friends or hosting a watch party at home, every football fan needs a game plan to crunch, dip and...

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What an Autism-Friendly Dentist and Certified Autism Center Means for Kids in Collier and Lee Counties

Choosing an autism-friendly dentist in Collier and Lee Counties can transform a stressful appointment into a calmer, more predictable experience for your child. For autistic...

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What the Winter Olympics Can Teach kids in Collier and Lee Counties

If you have a young athlete in Collier or Lee County, you might be wondering what the Winter Olympics can teach kids beyond who wins...

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Wonder Gardens 90th Anniversary: A Roadside Treasure for Families in SWFL

The Wonder Gardens' 90th anniversary in Bonita Springs is more than a birthday; it’s a chance for families to rediscover one of Southwest Florida’s last...

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How to Improve Indoor Air Quality for Kids in SWFL

When parents think about keeping their children safe, they often focus on car seats, helmets, and healthy meals. But what about indoor air quality for...

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How is the Super Mom Myth Shaping Burnout for Collier and Lee County Moms?

The super mom myth often looks like cold coffee on the counter, a never-ending to-do list, and the pressure to keep every ball in the...

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SWFL Family New Year Resolutions That Actually Stick

Family New Year's resolutions offer a meaningful way to set intentions and strengthen bonds. But while many SWFL families start the year with high hopes,...

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Where to Get Free or Budget Christmas Dinners and Ways to Help Those in Need in Southwest Florida

If you’re looking for a discounted or free Christmas meal this holiday season, there is no shortage of options in Southwest Florida to meet your...

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Outdoor Holiday Movies in Collier & Lee Counties

With the weather cooling down and the holiday season fast approaching, outdoor holiday movies Collier Lee are the perfect way to chillax with the family...

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How Can Telehealth Help Families in Collier and Lee Counties?

Telehealth for families in Collier and Lee Counties makes it much easier to fit healthcare into real life. Instead of rushing across town, sitting in...

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Holiday Baking With Kids: Simple Ways SWFL Families Can Make Memories in the Kitchen

Holiday baking with kids gives SWFL families a simple way to slow down and make real memories in the middle of a busy season. When...

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How to Tell Your Kids the Truth About Santa

When you think of Santa Claus, you may picture freshly baked cookies, flying reindeer, and a hearty “Ho! Ho! Ho!” But for many parents, the...

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Where to See Santa in Collier and Lee Counties (2025)

There are plenty of chances for kids to visit Santa this holiday season in Collier and Lee Counties. Use this roundup of Santa Events to...

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Easy Fall Pumpkin Recipes

Get ready to fall into flavor with these easy pumpkin dessert recipes and a bonus spiced zucchini treat! From a classic pumpkin pie with a...

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CMON Members Receive Exclusive Compass Hotel Naples Getaway Benefits During Limited-Time Promotion

Purchase or renew an annual CMON membership during the promotion period and receive a free one-night stay at Compass Hotel Naples by Margaritaville.

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Bright Futures: Florida’s Top Student Scholarship

If you’re raising a student in Florida, the Bright Futures Scholarship Program is one opportunity you don’t want to miss. Funded by the Florida Lottery,...

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Children’s Privacy on Social Media: What Parents Should Know Before Posting

Children's privacy on social media is becoming a growing concern for parents in the digital age. Those cute photos of a toddler covered in spaghetti...

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Where to Get Food Assistance in Collier & Lee Counties

If you or your family are experiencing food insecurity in Collier County or Lee County, there are dozens of local organizations ready to help. From...

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Tips for Tackling Leftover Halloween Treats

After a fun night of trick-or-treating in Collier and Lee Counties, families often find themselves swimming in sweets. Instead of letting those goodies linger in...

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Chincoteague Island: Wild Ponies & Coastal Charm

The invitation is compelling: “Come spend a week on our tiny slice of paradise on Virginia’s Eastern Shore,” say my artsy friends, “where the shaggy-maned...

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Parenting with Discipline, Respect, and Communication

When a newborn baby enters a home for the first time, a question many proud parents ask is, “What will they do as an adult?”...

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Discover How to Support Your Child’s Musical Journey in Southwest Florida

From choosing the right instrument to fostering a love of practice, this guide offers expert advice on nurturing young musicians. Learn about the importance of encouragement, routine, and performance to help your child thrive in the world of music.

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Support First Responders and Military Heroes at the Tunnel to Towers 5K on September 6

Step up for those who serve. The Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk Fort Myers returns on Saturday, Sept. 6 at Florida SouthWestern State College to honor and...

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Pediatric Tips for School Readiness in Collier County

Back-to-school season brings more than just shopping lists and sign-up sheets; it is also a time of transition that can impact a child’s physical and...

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Our Foster Parenting Journey: Summer Reflections

We’re wrapping up our first summer as a foster family, and our permanent placement (a 7-month-old baby boy) has been experiencing the daily outpourings of...

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Naples Zoo Orangutans Welcome New Roommates From Zoo Miami

Naples Zoo is thrilled to welcome two new residents to the very popular orangutan habitat. Millie and Kapok, a bonded mother-son pair of white-cheeked gibbons...

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Effective Parenting Strategies for a Disciplined Home

When a newborn baby enters a home for the first time, and dreams and expectations are limitless, a question many proud parents ask is, “What...

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Collier County Rising High School Seniors Graduate From the Youth Leadership Collier Class of 2025 Program

The Leadership Collier Foundation, an affiliate of the Greater Naples Chamber, announces the successful completion of the Youth Leadership Collier Class of 2025 Program. It...

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Hands-On Learning at the New EFC Farms Exhibit at CMON Naples

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON) has debuted an exciting new farming exhibit for kids in Naples: EFC Farms. Created in partnership with EFC Farms...

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7 Best Day Trips for Families in Collier and Lee Counties

These day trips are all close enough to get away for a day of fun and adventure with the kids but be home in time to sleep in your own bed.

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Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach and Compass Naples Achieve Autism Certification for Inclusive Travel

April is Autism Acceptance Month, and two local Margaritaville properties are marking the occasion with a milestone in inclusive hospitality. Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers...

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Collier Parks Offering Junior Leader Training for Teens Aged 13+

Collier County is offering leadership training to students ages 13 and older in preparation to become a Junior Leader Intern.

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Measles are on the Move

How Can I Protect My Child from Measles?Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to severe complications, especially in young children. With...

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Prepare Your Child and Yourself For Camp This Summer

Are you sending your child to camp this summer? Here are tips to make sure your child, you, and the rest of the family are ready to adjust to camp life.

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Valentine’s Day Breakfast Ideas Your Kids Will Love

Get your Valentine’s Day off to a great start with a special breakfast for your family. Here are 6 delicious ways to kick off your Valentine’s Day!

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Our Favorite Books Honoring Black History Month

This list contains a book for every kind of reader.

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Top-Rated Toys Kids Will Love This Holiday Season

Whether you’re shopping for a budding artist, a science enthusiast, or a game-loving tween, you’ll find the season’s must-have toys to inspire creativity, learning, and endless fun.

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Christmas and Hanukkah Books to Celebrate the Season

The holiday season is here, and it’s a magical time to gather around, snuggle up, and dive into stories that bring Christmas and Hanukkah to life. Here’s a list of 10 books to enjoy with the family.

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Wintery Wonderlands and Holiday Lights Destinations

Explore winter magic from Maine’s lobster trap trees and Florida’s ICE! Experience to Santa’s Village in Lapland and NYC’s Rockefeller Center. Festive fun awaits for the whole family.

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Family Holiday Recipes You Never Knew You Needed

Several families share their best holiday recipes and tips and tricks to make them easy.

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How AI is Revolutionizing Parenting: From Virtual Assistants to Mental Health Support

Discover how AI is transforming parenting with virtual assistants, smart apps, and mental health tools, helping parents save time, reduce stress, and focus on family.

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Choosing Foster Care: Our Journey from Only Child Dreams to Opening Our Home for Healing

Discover our family’s journey from dreams of a big family to fostering, embracing the call to provide a safe, loving home for children in need. Learn about the impact and rewards of foster care in SWFL.

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How to Choose the Best Volunteer Activities for Your Family

Family volunteering builds bonds, boosts happiness, and teaches compassion. Discover tips for finding age-appropriate, local, and fun activities, plus explore SWFL non-profits to get started.

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Where to See Elephants and Butterflies in Florida

Find some of the world’s largest (elephants) and smallest creatures (butterflies) in Florida.

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Helping Your Child After Witnessing a Choking Incident: Reassurance, Healing, and Safe Mealtime Practices

After a child witnesses a choking incident, it’s normal for them—and those around them—to feel anxious about mealtimes.

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Collier County Public School Board Approves Autism Collier Charter School in Naples

Autism Collier Charter School is committed to providing an innovative learning atmosphere where students with autism are the primary focus.

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Guide to Hurricane Preparedness and Resources in Southwest Florida

Hurricanes are an inescapable part of Florida life, yet each storm that threatens us tells a different story. Here are resources to help your family prepare for and cope with all kinds of disasters.

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Shell Factory & Nature Park announces details for final closing weekend Sept. 28-29

The Shell Factory & Nature Park will be closed today, Sept. 27. However, it will be open as planned on Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Healthy Dental Hygiene Habits Are Something to Smile About

The mouth is full of germs and is connected to the digestive and respiratory tracts. Without proper oral hygiene, germs can lead to infections in the mouth and health issues.

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A Grandparent’s Guide to Supporting Neurodiverse Grandchildren with Love and Patience

The role of grandparents in families with children with special needs cannot be underestimated. Here is a guide for how to support neurodiverse grandchildren.

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Many SWFL Parents Now Need Second Jobs to Pay the Bills

Despite working full-time jobs, Southwest Florida moms struggle to make ends meet due to rising costs. From social workers to stay-at-home moms, many are turning to side hustles and starting small businesses to survive.

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Empowering Girls: A Decade of Wellfit Girls’ Life-Changing Program

Wellfit Girls, founded in 2014, empowers middle and high school girls in Southwest Florida through leadership, fitness, and adventure.

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Meet The 12-Year-Old Powerhouse from Naples Behind Kidz 4 a Cause

Sutton Shanahan, a 12-year-old from Naples, founded Kidz 4 a Cause to raise money for St. Jude and support cancer research. Her nonprofit has grown, organizing charity events, donating to military personnel, and receiving corporate sponsorships to m

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Spooky Season Snacks: Pop up Scary Sweet Halloween treats

Skip the store-bought candies and break out your cauldron for tempting homemade sweets this Halloween.

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Our Favorite Family-Friendly Beach Parks in Southwest Florida

Here are our favorite family-friendly beach parks with a variety of amenities, such as picnic and play areas, restrooms, food concessions, umbrella rentals, wind and water sports, and children’s life jacket loaners.

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Best Spots to Find Sharks’ Teeth in Southwest Florida

Discover the best spots to find fossilized shark teeth in Southwest Florida. Visit Venice, the shark tooth capital of the world, or explore Englewood Beach, Caspersen Beach, and Don Pedro Island State Park. Enjoy amenities and great fossil hunting.

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Top Spots for Interactive Animal Encounters in Southwest Florida

Discover the best places in Southwest Florida for interactive animal encounters. At these fun locations, you can pet, feed, and hug a variety of mammals, reptiles, and birds. They’re perfect for family adventures and kids’ activities!

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A Local Teen’s Dedication to Children With Special Needs Through Her Love of Horses

Lucie Norman loves horses and loves children with special needs. She combines her passions with her volunteer work at a local riding center.

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A Spring Spread for Easter Any Bunny Can Create

Have your guests hop on over for an Easter celebration with these easy tips.

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Easter Desserts: Bunny Butt Cake and Carrot Cake

This Easter, celebrate with your loved ones with a delicious and colorful Easter Bunny Butt Cake, and everybunny’s favorite snack: carrot cake.

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How to fight off sickness and keep your family healthy with these superfoods

Healthy eating is directly related to better health through stronger immune systems. Get tips on what superfoods to eat and why from a dietitian nutritionist.

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What teens in Naples really think about the time spent on cellphones and social media

We asked teens in Naples about the time they spend on social media and what they thought about it. Local experts also weighed in on the effects of teens’ cellphone habits.

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Naples Mom’s Advocacy for Expanded Disability Services Results in the Passing of SB 1758

New grassroots movement gives hope to families of children with developmental delays across Florida.

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Sophie Sherer’s Quest to Make Sure No Student Eats Alone

The senior at Naples High School helps students who need encouragement to make friends.

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The Kissing Disease: What Families Should Know About Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis (mono), also known as the kissing disease, is a viral infection common in tweens and teens, that causes a contagious illness.

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Culturally Competent Health Care for Families and Children in Collier County

Addressing cultural differences can influence many aspects of health care for families.

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Beyond the Legends: St. Augustine’s Ancient Wonders and Family-Friendly Attractions

Discover the enchanting blend of history and fun in St. Augustine. Unearth pirate treasures, witness cannon firings and experience the magic of the Fountain of Youth.

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West Coast Muscle Car Club’s 20th Annual Car and Truck Show to Benefit Local Charities

Over 300 new and vintage cars and trucks will be on display on January 27th at North Collier Regional Park with all proceeds benefiting local charities.

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Neapolitan Family Wins Four Editorial & Design Awards at the 2023 Parenting Media Association Annual Conference in Chicago

Neapolitan Family Publishing is proud to announce that they have received four prestigious editorial and design awards at the annual Parenting Media Association (PMA) Conference held last week in Chicago.

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