With each new baby comes new gear. Sometimes the sheer variety of products can feel overwhelming, thanks to all the claims of “new and improved” items. While it's ultimately up to parents to know what’s best for their baby, here are some highlights when it comes to trendier — yet functional — baby products on the market right now. Plus, find out which items our Northeast Ohio Parent editors can't live without when it comes to caring for their little ones.

Summer is a time for kids to explore, discover and reach for big goals. This pioneering spirit is unique to the Western Reserve Academy summer programs experience. Dozens of fun and enriching programs – from sports to science, academics to adventure, dance to digital design, and piano and puppetry – are offered for kids of all ages.

Make plans today to visit Crocker Park in Westlake on May 16 for Crocker Kids — Art Party presented by Lake Ridge Academy and Northeast Ohio Parent magazine. This is a great event, ideal for parents and their kids ages 2 to 9, to enjoy theme-related activities such as crafts, prizes, balloon creations by The Twister Girl Balloon Company and more. Plus, 95.5 the Fish radio station will be onsite to add to the fun with music and giveaways. Be one of the first 250 families to register between April 4-24 to qualify for a free 2017 Crocker Kids T-shirt.

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Having your hands full after your baby is born is an understatement. Babywearing can become a next best solution to any parent. It can be helpful so mothers can nurse on the go and nurture a child’s craving for closeness anytime — even while multitasking. Learn about the benefits of babywearing, the types of slings, wraps and carriers available, and where to turn for more information.

Could your child be a future scientist or engineer? STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) can be exciting and fun for children of all ages. From DIY activities, board games, local events and programming, and more, here are just a few ways you can “STEMulate” your child’s talent through interactive STEM activities and programs.

House Bill 13, introduced last month, would permit a mother who is breastfeeding her baby to be excused from jury service. State Rep. Anne Gonzales (R-Westerville) proposed the bill after a constituent told her about an experience while serving on a jury while breastfeeding.

Kids and teens with special needs can come together for social and communication skills, and other sensory-friendly fun activities such as stories, movement and more. Parents also have the opportunity learn strategies for their children and gain support from others.

What happens when you pair two generations together? This is being answered across the U.S. and right here in Northeast Ohio with intergenerational living. Some senior facilities have already combined services with an on-campus daycare facility, which gives preschoolers and residents an opportunity to do activities together.