Be The Most Informed Parent On The Playground! Note

There’s so much to love about spring in Atlanta! Everything’s green again, and it seems like more people are out and about, enjoying the beautiful weather. I’m glad for the chance to use our screen porch again; we love having dinner together in the fresh air. Grab the kids and get outside — head to your neighborhood park for a game of tennis, explore the BeltLine on bicycles or just get out and walk.

Our May issue takes a leap into the world of toddlers. It doesn’t seem very long ago that my kids were at the toddler age; they could be screaming one moment and adorable the next. Writer and mom Sarah Lyons offers some time-tested wisdom on the joys and challenges of the toddler years. When you need to get out of the house, there are lots of options around Atlanta for young children — we rounded up our favorite ideas for toddler fun. Explore the zoo or a nature center and you’re introducing your kids to the wonders of nature. Sign up for an art or music class and get the creativity started. Rainy day? Visit an indoor play center and jump off that extra energy. No matter what, just remember that the toddler stage doesn’t last forever; enjoy it while you can.

I’m looking forward to Mother’s Day. My kids usually make the day special by fixing me breakfast and encouraging me to take it easy all day — but that’s difficult for me! As moms, it’s hard to take a break without feeling a little guilty, or that if we take some time for ourselves, we’ll never catch back up. Try to remember that your needs are important, too. Even if it’s something small, like indulging in that iced latte while you’re running errands, the little things can be a mood-lifter.

May means fresh-picked strawberries, one of my favorite treats. Whether you pick them straight from a local berry patch or buy them at the farm stand, it’s a fun family tradition to start. May is also a great month for things to do. One of my family’s favorite events is the Decatur Art Festival; we’re also planning to see the new Immersive Disney Animation experience at Armour Yards. Check out our Family Fun Guide for a great list of events, exhibits and performances.

Tell us about your plans this month! Let us know about your favorite Atlanta activities on Facebook or Twitter. I look forward to seeing you out and about!

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