Ages & Stages

Learn how to prepare yourself — and your child — before their next wellness visit. From vaccines and common parent concerns to explaining the visit to your child and easing worries about getting a shot, we offer tips to make the appointment go smoothly. ...

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Getting your toddler or preschooler to stop playing and sit down to dinner is challenging enough, let alone getting them to eat the nutritious meal you just prepared. For some kids, fussy eating is a fleeting stage. For others, it can become an ongoing challenge and make mealtime a stressful, chaotic experience for everyone involved. Learn about food chaining for picky eaters, including examples to use with your own child. ...

Eton Explorers — Scavenger Hunt is a free, family-friendly event that brings together crafts, games and other activities. Features include custom balloon creations, character appearances, glitter tattoos and a scavenger hunt with prizes for all participants — and a grand prize currently valued at more than $600 for one lucky winner. ...

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The new Goldfish Swim School of Hudson provides swim instruction to children ages 4 months to 12. It has highly trained instructors, small class sizes, and shiver-free 90-degree pools. It also offers weekly family swims and party packages. Find out more about the newest area location, including a special Grand Opening event. ...

Shopping resale for gently used baby and kids clothing, equipment and more can bolster your back-to-school budget, since items cost significantly less than retail prices. Beginning this weekend and throughout the fall, many organizations in the area hold resale events. Check this list to plan your shopping. ...

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Trading summer’s relaxed sleep schedule for a school-year routine is an important part of back-to-school prep. While you can’t make your kids celebrate summer’s end, you can plan for brighter mornings and happier days with these tips. ...

Crocker Kids — Scavenger Hunt takes place at Crocker Park in Westlake from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This free, family-friendly event includes crafts, games, custom balloon creations, glitter tattoos and a scavenger hunt with prizes for all participants — plus a grand prize currently valued at more than $1,300 for one lucky winner! ...