Nicole O'Donnell

Nicole O'Donnell is a marketing and social media expert with over 20 years of media experience and a proud mom to twin girls. A fan of writing, yoga, and exploring Philly, Nicole loves sampling the city's best treats with her girls in tow.

Latest posts by Nicole

Why the All-Inclusive Barcelo Maya Grand Resort is Awesome for Families

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Sat, 08/24/2024 - 12:00pm

From pools and water sports to a fantastic kids club, Barcelo Maya Grand Resort has tons of family-friendly activities.

If you're on the hunt for an unforgettable family vacation, look no further than the all-inclusive Barcelo Maya Grand Resort. Located along the stunning Riviera Maya coastline in Mexico, this all-inclusive resort is packed with fun and relaxation for everyone. My family recently stayed there, and we can’t stop talking about how amazing it was.

The Barcelo Maya Grand Resort has fantastic family-friendly accommodations. The rooms and suites are spacious, often with separate areas for kids and adults, so everyone can spread out. Plus, with the all-inclusive package, you get unlimited access to dining, refreshing drinks, and tons of activities without worrying about extra costs.

Read on for all the details about the Barcelo Maya Grand Resort and why it's the perfect all-inclusive resort for families. Then use our Mexico Family Travel Guide, including our list of things to do in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya with kids, to plan the perfect family vacation in Mexico.

100 Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader Questions

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Thu, 08/22/2024 - 12:00pm

Test your family's knowledge with this fun list of Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader questions.

Are you smarter than a fifth grader? You may be, but are your kids? Find out with these fun trivia questions!

Do your kids love learning and testing their knowledge? Are you looking for a fun and educational way to spend time together as a family?

Look no further. We've compiled a fantastic list of Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader questions that will challenge your little ones and bring out their inner scholars. From history, geography, and math to animals, nature, and science, these questions are perfect for kids from first through fifth grade.

Once your kiddos have tackled these 100 Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader questions, challenge them further with our list of 100 trivia questions for kids. Then find even more brain boosters in our Boredom Busters for Kids guide.

Best Attractions and Things To Do in Philly that are Kid-Friendly

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Sun, 08/18/2024 - 9:00am

Pet the stingrays at Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ. Photo courtesy of Cait Sumner, Apiary Photogrpahy

Philadelphia is brimming with must-see attractions that offer unforgettable experiences for the entire family. From the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the birth of American democracy is brought to life, to engaging museums like the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution, the city’s rich history and vibrant culture are on full display.

Whether you're marveling at historic sites or enjoying unique cultural experiences, Philadelphia's top attractions promise a memorable and enriching visit for all ages. Don't miss our Best of Philly Guide for more fun things to do around the city.

19 Best FREE Toddler Music Fun: Music Classes, Storytimes, and Singalongs

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Fri, 08/09/2024 - 9:35am

Check out the listings below for FREE classes across Philly.

Toddler and baby story times and music classes offer invaluable enrichment for young children and their families. These engaging programs foster early literacy and musical skills, promote social interaction, and ignite creativity. By participating, families can build strong bonds and support their child's developmental growth in a fun and supportive environment. There are many free options throughout Philly and in the suburbs for families to enjoy.

Don’t miss out on these fantastic events—read on to find out more and add some rhythm, joy, and learning to your family’s routine. Looking for more preschool fun? Check out our Preschooler Activity Guide.

100 Stress Relief Activities for Kids

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Tue, 08/06/2024 - 10:01am

Create a special cozy area where your child relax with a book. Photo by Jody Mercier

In today's fast-paced world, even children can experience stress from various sources, from school pressures to social challenges. As parents, fostering healthy stress relief skills early on is crucial. Engaging kids in activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and fun not only helps them unwind but also equips them with lifelong coping strategies.

From creative arts and outdoor adventures to calming exercises, here are 100 stress relief activities for children. Find more stress-busting things to do with kids, including our list of 100 awesome art projects, in our Boredom Busters for Kids Guide.

11 Places to Watch Fireworks this 4th of July at the Jersey Shore

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Fri, 06/21/2024 - 8:00am

Have a blast on the Wildwoods Boardwalk and enjoy an awesome fireworks show. Photo courtesy of Wildwoods

Looking for the perfect spot to watch fireworks at the Jersey Shore with your family? From Cape May to Point Pleasant, the shore offers stunning displays that light up the night sky. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or enjoying a seaside boardwalk, these fireworks shows provide a magical experience for all ages. Here are some of our top picks for watching fireworks this 4th of July down the shore.

Looking for more fun down the shore? Check out our roundup of 70 Awesome Things To Do With Kids at the Shore and don't miss our guide to the Best Jersey Shore Boardwalks and Amusement Parks.

A Guide to Philly Pride with Kids

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Fri, 05/24/2024 - 9:00am

Philadelphia's Pride March and Festival. Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and Philadelphia is bustling with family-friendly events to celebrate! From roller skating to parades and festivals, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a member of the community or an ally, it's time to don those rainbows and get out and celebrate!

Looking for more fairs and festivals? Check out our guide to Summer Festivals and Fairs in Philly. For all the summer fun, visit our Ultimate Summer Activity Guide.

Easy Strawberry Recipes to Make With Kids Make the Most of Freshly Picked Strawberries

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:24am

Dip, decorate, and snack! These easy bites are fun for kids to make, and fancy enough to serve to guests!

What to do with all those strawberries you just picked at strawberry picking farms or strawberry festivals near you? We pulled together our favorite family strawberry recipes to use up all that juicy, red sweetness. These easy strawberry recipes are written so that parents can do the prep work and leave the rest of the mixing, stirring, and baking up to the kids!

But wait! If you haven’t gone strawberry picking yet, don't worry. We know the best strawberry picking farms and strawberry festivals in Boston, Connecticut, New York, Westchester & the Hudson Valley, Long Island, Philadelphia, Houston, New Jersey, Chicago, Washington DC, Atlanta, Orlando, and Los Angeles. Now go get picking and baking!

Looking for more yummy (and quick) things to make with or for kids? Check out our Easy Recipes Guide.

Nicole O'Donnell

Latest posts by Nicole

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