Neapolitan Family Rad Dads: Meet the original Rad Dad Michael Shapiro!
Meet the original Rad Dad Michael Shapiro, of Rad Dad Hibachi.
Read ArticleKids & Family
Kindness Kids: Fifth Grader Helps Classmates Learn to Overcome Difficulties
When Andrew McManus sees his classmates spinning out of control, Andrew often leads them to the calming corner and gives them words of advice.
Read ArticleChild Care of SWFL Registration Open at Three Learning Centers in Lee County
Child Care of Southwest Florida is accepting new student registrations for the summer term at three of its early learning centers in Fort Myers.
Read ArticleSummer Slide Offset by Books for Collier Kids
Without access to a steady stream of books throughout the summer, low-income children return to fall classes with reading scores 30% lower than those with steady access to books.
Read ArticleFlorida VPK: The importance of voluntary prekindergarten for your child.
Enrollment is open for Florida VPK.
Read ArticleWhat Keeps You Up at Night? The Top Eight Question Parents Of Teens Google Most
We have answers for the questions that parents don’t want to ask their friends or social media parent groups.
Read ArticlePutting Holocaust Education to the Test in Florida
How antisemitic acts against children and adults in our community are on the rise, despite state-mandated Holocaust history curriculum in our schools.
Read ArticleAre Your Child’s Developmental Milestones on Track?
Try this virtual milestone checklist to receive a free consultation to resources and free support services with Help Me Grow Florida.
Read ArticleNational Hispanic Heritage Month Activities and Events
National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed in the United States from September 15th to October 15th.This commemorative month recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to history, culture, art, and other achievements.
Read ArticleWhat Does the CCPS School Board Do?
An election in a non-presidential election year doesn’t spark a lot of interest. In Collier County only 21%-32% of registered voters head to the polls....
Read ArticleWant to Help the Planet? Here are 8 Easy Changes to Make!
Earth Day is here, and your family can help save the environment! Small changes on a local level can make a difference for our planet. Read our article for quick and easy ways to conserve resources, use less, and even save money in the process!
Read ArticleWant to Keep Your Kids Safe Online? Read Our Top 3 Tips.
When it comes to the internet, keeping your kids safe should be your top priority. What are steps you can take today to monitor your children’s device usage? Read this advice from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and Collier County Public Schools.
Read ArticleShiny Objects: A Skeleton with Attitude and a Magical Mermaid
Travel Writer Karen Bartlett details a few “shiny objects” (points of interest that bring a destination to life) in and around Sanibel and Ft. Myers.
Read ArticleRed Velvet Pancakes to Win Your Valentine’s Heart
Try these Red Velvet Heart Pancakes, which are one of a kind and a delicious way to spend your morning with your loved one.
Read ArticleWalking the Walk for Mental Health: a Mother’s Story
“I was told early on that the disease of mental illness was not a “casserole disease.” Friends and neighbors don’t visit with baked goods or flowers. People tend to shy away from what they don’t understand.”
Read ArticleSober Solidarity: How Women are Defying Their Wine Mom Status for a Healthier Lifestyle & a Happier Home
One doesn’t need to look far to find a popular meme that supports a parent’s drinking habit. After all, aren’t kids the reason we drink? Here’s help if you are not sure you are taking a well-deserved break or breaking up your family with alcohol.
Read ArticleNaples Moms Shop & Play Event Draws over 2400 People
The first Naples Moms Shop & Play event took place Sunday at Baker Park.
Read ArticleThanksgiving Plot Twist: Switch Your Traditions for a More Satisfying Meal
It’s time to stir the Thanksgiving pot with some fresh ideas.
Read ArticlePiper’s Story: Living With Ulcerative Colitis
October cover girl Piper’s Story is about acting, singing, a dog named Dorian, and living with a chronic illness
Read ArticleHow to Support Your Child with ADHD
Life with a child diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder sometimes can be overwhelming. It is important to remember that a child with ADHD is not intentionally being difficult or lazy; they often are trying as hard as they can to foc
Read ArticleThe Art of Knitting
Here’s how a pandemic, and an Olympian, have resurrected the art of knitting.
Read ArticleDiscovering Libraries Beyond the Books
Public libraries are just about the best deal on the planet. Yes, our taxes pay for libraries, but that happens whether we use their vast resources or not. Keep reading to learn about all of the library systems.
Read ArticleStaying Cool in SWFL
Welcome to summer in Naples! So, what are some ways families can stay cool and continue to enjoy quality time together without sacrificing basic levels of human comfort? Fortunately, Southwest Florida has lots of fun activities to beat the heat.
Read ArticleBeat the Heat with a Treat
Not that we really need an excuse for ice cream, but the icy treat becomes almost essential in Southwest Florida in summer. Here are some of our favorite frozen dessert spots in the area.
Read ArticleHow to Support LGBTQ+ Youth
It’s no surprise that LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of discrimination, bigotry, violence, and suicide than their peers. In honor of Pride Month, here is how parents and allies can make LGBTQ+ youth feel love and accepted.
Read ArticleKid-Friendly Summer Charcuterie Snack Board
Make watermelon part of a balanced snack plate with this Kids Charcuterie Snack Board.
Read ArticleStress in Children: Signs, Symptoms and Strategies
We are all living in a time of increased stress these days. Our world as we know it has undergone a drastic shift, and our children are not immune to the impact.
Read ArticleIdeas for Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week is the perfect time to show your kids’ teachers your gratitude for the blood, sweat, and tears they put into their work.
Read ArticleChanukah Family Fun
It’s time for eight crazy nights! Here are some fun ways to celebrate with children from Rabbi Ariel Boxman from Temple Shalom of Naples.
Read ArticleJoy Comes in the Morning: A Spiritual Adoption Journey
Dr. Oliver L. Phipps recounts his spiritual journey to meet his birth mother and celebrate his parents by adoption.
Read ArticleMOMentum Mom: Rabbi Ariel Boxman
Meet Rabbi Ariel Boxman, who wears many hats, including the one as the new preschool director of Temple Shalom Preschool.
Read ArticleBack to the Beach! The Top 20 Beaches in Southwest Florida
Our round up of the 20 best beaches in Southwest Florida.
Read Article8 COVID-19 Coping Tips for Parents
Here are eight tips to help make life at home during quarantine easier to manage.
Read ArticleFinancial Planning 101 for Future-Focused Moms and Dads
Here’s what you need to do to ensure your family’s future is secure.
Read ArticleEight Tricks to a Trouble-Free Thanksgiving with Kids
Tips to avoid the most common pitfalls that can thwart a tranquil Thanksgiving.
Read ArticleEight Mistakes I Made When Flying With Toddlers
Learn how to take the turbulence out of your next flight with your children.
Read ArticleAn Adoption Story: The Alexander Family
Allison Alexander, of Southwest Florida, gives us an honest and inspirational story of her family’s adoption journey.
Read ArticleDestination: Belize
Neapolitan Family Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett gives us 11 reasons why Belize is a great family destination.
Read ArticleNaples Parents Feather their Newly Empty Nests
For years, we parents focus all of our time, energy, and resources on raising our children. How do we confront the quiet house we come home to after dropping off that last (or only) kid at college?
Read ArticleA Day in the Life of Stage, Band, and Dance Moms
Do YOU have what it takes to be the parent of an artistic child?
Read ArticleLast Resort: The Swag, an All-Inclusive Western North Carolina Smoky Mountain Retreat
The all-inclusive Swag is anything but a last resort for a summer vacation for the whole family or a romantic retreat for two.
Read ArticleBefore You Take Off for Summer Vacation, Take On These 5 To-Dos
However, wouldn’t you travel with more peace of mind if you knew you had taken the necessary steps to protect your family if something unthinkable should happen to you?
Read ArticleSouthwest Florida Staycation Guide
Ten mom-tested vacations less than an hour from home.
Read ArticleOnce Upon a Summer: Naples Author Kelle Hampton helps families of all abilities to plan an unplanned summer
New York Times bestselling author and Naples Mom Kelle Hampton gives us permission to be both a parent who loves summer and makes efforts to create fun and a parent who’s raising a white flag three days in.
Read ArticleMoMENtum Dad: Martin de St. Pierre
In honor of Father’s Day, we interviewed Martin de St. Pierre as our MoMENtum Dad!
Read ArticleLee Health Convenient Care Locations Now Accepting Most Medicaid
Starting this month, Lee Convenient Care urgent care clinics now accept 95 percent of Medicaid plans in the region, including Vivida Health, bringing high-quality care to low-income residents enrolled in a Medicaid health plan.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Cheryl Courson
“Having children at the store has been the most wonderful opportunity for all parents that work at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store.” -Cheryl Courson
Read ArticleAdding Life Skills to Your Homeschool Routine
When my husband and I originally discussed homeschooling, one of the big deciding factors was that we would have more opportuni-ties to teach real life skills...
Read ArticleKids and Dental Care
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) en-courages parents and other care providers to help every child establish a dental home by the age of 1.
Read Article5 Benefits of Team Sports
If you are considering signing your child up for a team sport, but have reservations about the investment of your time and money, consider the benefits it can have for your child.
Read ArticleSeven Ways to Help Grieving Children During the Holidays
Most of these tips are useful for grieving children, not only during the holidays but throughout the year.
Read ArticleBest Christmas Gifts For Your Tech-Crazy Teen
Out of ideas for gifts for your teen? Check out these ideas for your tech-savvy kid.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Laurel Joel
This month’s MOMentum Mom, Laurel Joel, and her family have created a safe haven for those children as foster parents.
Read ArticleWhen Your College Kids are Home for the Holidays
It’s the time of year every new empty-nester looks forward to- winter break. Your new adults are coming home for the holidays after their first experience with fending for themselves (or, as some of them might call it, “freedom”).
Read ArticleGo a Little Rogue for a More Gratifying Thanksgiving
If the holiday feels more like a tired list of ho-hum obligations rather than an energizing way to revel in your blessings, maybe it’s time to revolutionize your Thanksgiving this year.
Read ArticleHow to Navigate the College Financial Aid System
The two most common applications used by colleges across the US are the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE, and they need to be filed prior to each year the student plans on attending college.
Read Article11 Ways Families Can Salute a Veteran
During this month of Thanksgiving, don’t forget our military service members. Many organizations offer ways to help support and show gratitude to current and retired members of the armed forces.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Amber Phillips
In November, we honor our country’s veterans and prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving. As an Honor Flight guardian, award-winning chef and MOMentum Mom Amber Phillips celebrates veterans all year long…
Read ArticleRelocation After Divorce
One of the most challenging issues have to decide whether it is in the children’s children, which is never an easy task. If the for families to face in a divorce best interests to relocate.
Read ArticleDestination: The Spirit Zone
Plenty of pretend ghosts will be whooshing around in the dark this month. But do real ghosts exist? Visit these likely spots and decide for yourself.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Tamara Nicola
When you think of a judge in the courtroom, you may imagine a stern, unapproachable figure. But, in fact, many of our Collier County judges are moms like us.
Read ArticleSudden and Unexplained Infant Death Syndrome: One Family’s Quest to Educate About and Eradicate SUIDS
It’s every parent’s worst nightmare: losing a child to Sudden and Unexplained Infant Death Syndrome (SUIDS, often shortened to SIDS). No one believes it will happen to their family.
Read ArticleDemystifying Medical Marijuana
Cannabis is medicine, says one Naples mom determined to change the stigma and public perception through education.
Read ArticleThe Benefits of Scouting
Even if you never were a Girl Scout or Boy Scout, you may be aware of the benefits of Scouting for your child: learning new skills, developing leadership qualities, access to ridiculously addictive cookies.
Read ArticleAre Music Lessons Worth the Cost?
Does your child love to sing? Love plunking on the piano or pounding on the drum? Do you think you might have a future musician in your home?
Read ArticleTake A Bow: 10 Reasons to Encourage Kids to Participate in Theater
10 Reasons to Encourage Kids to Participate in Theater
Read ArticlePreparing Your Family to Deal With Any Disaster
Most experts recommend preparing for disaster in three steps:
• Make a kit.
• Have a plan.
• Be informed.
Homework Help: Tips to Ease Frustration and Boost Focus
Tips to ease frustration and boost focus!
Read ArticleA First-Hand Look at Study Abroad
Neapolitan Family intern Ginny Lundstrom is a 2015 Barron Collier High School graduate. She is a senior at Florida State University majoring in Editing, Writing, and Media.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Dara Albert
After her own family experienced financial and food insecurity, Dara Albert became determined to rebuild her life and give back to her community by becoming a Food Angel.
Read ArticleTracking Teens: Setting Limits and Giving Freedom
Thanks to GPS technology in smartphones, we have plenty of options when it comes to keeping up with our teenagers, but should we?
Read ArticleJuly is National Blueberry Month:12 Ideas For All Things Blueberry
Here are 12 kid-friendly ideas for all things blueberry.
Read ArticleDestination: Weird Hotels
In this world of mine is weirder than yours, just about anything can – and has – been made into a hotel room.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Susan Suarez
Susan Suarez has been CEO of the Naples Holocaust Museum for just over a year, but is no stranger to the local nonprofit community. As a consultant, employee, and volunteer, Suarez has been an integral part of many nonprofit organizations…
Read ArticleHow to Stay Safe Online While Traveling (and at Home)
Nowadays, technology is everywhere, and is almost impossible to get away from, especially when it comes to the kids. It is super important to make sure you and your family understand the consequences of using technology while traveling.
Read ArticleMOMentum Moms: Michelle Crombie
Meet the Mom who directs Buddy Break, the monthly program that provides an evening of respite for parents of special needs families.
Read ArticleA Reality Check on Dry Drowning
Facts from a pediatrician will alleviate your Facebook-inspired fears about your kids and water.
Read ArticleVacation Bible School Directory
Our annual roundup of free and low-cost religious education programs for summer.
Read ArticleIs Overnight Camp Right for your Kids?
Several local families have shared their overnight camp experiences with us, and the parents all agree that overnight camp has fostered confidence and independence in their children.
Read ArticleMaking Extra Income from Home
If you’ve ever wanted all of the joys of being a stay-at-home parent with all of the challenges of a traditional job, working from home may be the path for you! April O’Leary shares three options for earning extra income from home.
Read ArticleHow to Recognize and Resolve Your Child’s Reading Difficulties
How to help your struggling reader. Diana Myers-Finch, president of Reading Rescue Naples, helps you learn the signs that may indicate dyslexia in your child, as well as offering some tips to help your child.
Read ArticleThe Cliffs of Insanity
Visit the west coast of Ireland to take in the breath-taking Cliffs of Moher, made famous in countless movies.
Read ArticleMy Dual Enrollment Experience
Rebecca Barton shares her experience with full-time dual enrollment in Southwest Florida, where she participated in the Accelerated Collegiate Experience at FGCU as an alternate high school experience. A similar program exists at FSW, also featured.
Read ArticleWho Pays the Attorney in a Divorce and Family Court?
Who pays the attorney in a divorce and family court? The Florida Dissolution of Marriage Act contains a provision for the recovery of attorney’s fees to assist in these imbalanced situations.
Read ArticleBudgeting After Baby
Practical advice on how to soften the financial impact of bringing home baby.
Read ArticleSetting Intentions, Rather Than Goals, for the New Year
This year, Naples author Sandra Jones-Keller suggests swapping your New Year’s resolutions for intentions.
Read ArticleCollier County Deputies Receive Special Training for Encounters with People with Autism
Have you ever wondered how your child with autism might fare during a conversation with a deputy, firefighter, or medic if you weren’t there to facilitate?
Read ArticleDestination: Vanuatu
Vanuatu is a place lost to time. The picturesque, beautiful island and clear oceans make it the perfect location to visit with the adventure-seeking family looking to unplug for a vacation together.
Read ArticleLocal Children’s Authors Working Together to Entertain and Inform
Local authors are teaming up to make a difference in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Learn about some of these Collier authors and the books that made them popular with children of all ages.
Read ArticleIs Your Family Too Young to Need an Estate Plan?
Young families face different estate planning needs and challenges. Here are a few important estate-planning issues to consider as soon as they start a family.
Read ArticleCelebrate National Adoption Day in November
This day is a celebration of adoptions. Most people who are adopting children bring their entire family. There is a celebration afterwards in the courthouse atrium, with all of the children receiving gifts and participating in fun activities.
Read ArticleCostumes on a Dime: 11 Ways to Get Your Kid’s Costume for Less
Meagan Ruffing helps parents with 11 ways to get your child’s Halloween costumes for less.
Read Article39 Must-Watch Musicals the Whole Family Will Enjoy
Christina Katz helps any family that wants to start enjoying musicals with a handy list of movie musicals that you can watch at home!
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