While academics do play a large part of kindergarten readiness, there are other skills that are important for kids to master prior to the transition from preschool. Here are five focus areas besides academics that parents can use to help their preschool age children prepare for kindergarten. ...

With winter in full swing, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy seasonal activities in the region. Whether in a serene park setting or a bustling rink with entertainment options galore, ice skating is a family-friendly way to get exercise, fresh air and spend time together. We share tips for the right gear, places to go, and important safety precautions. ...

Think you’ve done some embarrassing things in holidays past? You’re not alone. Find some camaraderie — and some laughs — with these tales submitted last month by our Facebook followers. ...

The holidays are drawing near — and what better way to celebrate than with a home-cooked meal? No matter what holiday your family celebrates, coming together for a delicious, tradition-filled feast is likely a part of the plans. We asked readers and our lineup of bloggers for some of their family’s favorite seasonal recipes. Here are a few of their holiday must-haves to give you inspiration for filling your own table. ...

Color Me Mine pottery painting studio, now open in the Pinecrest mixed-use district, welcomes kids, adults and families to come in and create the perfect piece. The studio also is planning several grand opening events for next weekend. ...

Dinosaurs are fascinating in general. Add a young child’s curiosity to these complex creatures, and you’re bound to spend countless hours engaging in dino-related activities during playtime. If you’ve got a dinosaur lover at home, here are a few fun and educational toys and books to check out. ...

MilliporeSigma’s Curiosity Cube mobile science lab is making several stops in the Cleveland area as part of its second annual tour. The 22-by-10-foot, retrofitted shipping container has been transformed into a solar-powered mobile science lab and features hands-on science experiments to spark interest in STEM. ...

We asked, and readers answered. During the nomination period in March and the voting period in May, parents in Northeast Ohio weighed in on everything family-friendly in the region for our third annual contest. Here are this year's winners and honorable mentions in the “Things to Do with Kids” categories. ...

We asked, and readers answered. During the nomination period in March and the voting period in May, parents in Northeast Ohio weighed in on everything family-friendly in the region for our third annual contest. Here are this year's winners and honorable mentions in the “Food & Shopping” categories. ...

We asked, and readers answered. During the nomination period in March and the voting period in May, parents in Northeast Ohio weighed in on everything family-friendly in the region for our third annual contest. Here are this year's winners and honorable mentions in the “Health, Learning & More” categories. ...