Starting small school traditions you can implement all year long creates memories your kids will look forward to year after year. Here are some simple school traditions you can start today.

The countdown to back-to-school season is officially on! Whether you're savoring the last days of summer or already had the first day of school jitters on behalf of your little one, now’s the time to get ahead of the game. In this post, we’re rounding up some fun and helpful back-to-school events happening in our community that you won’t want to miss. These events involve free giveaways, community resources - or both. To stay most up-to-date, be sure to bookmark our community calendar.

Parenting is a job with no clock-out time, no user manual, and very few quiet moments.  It’s rewarding. It’s exhausting. It’s full of surprises, sacrifices, and small wins that often go unnoticed. That’s why National Parents’ Day was created. Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July (this year on July 27), it’s a day to pause, take a breath, and honor all parents and parent-figures for the heart-filled work you do every single day.

Welcome to “35 Free Splash Pads & Spray Parks to Cool Off at in Cuyahoga County,” your go-to guide for family-friendly, no-cost water fun this summer! From the City of Cleveland’s network of spray basins that turn on when temps hit around 80°F to suburban splash pads open seasonally, these 20 locations offer refreshing ways to beat the heat without breaking the bank. There’s something here for every summer vibe you’re seeking!  

When I started working for Bright Beginnings, my own children were ages 4 (almost 5!) and 2.  I had many of the same parenting concerns you have, and remember finding myself at work surrounded by people who cared…. who were knowledgeable… who listened…. This brings us to today – many years later (with a few organizational name changes thrown in) where I am lucky to be the Director of this great organization composed of over 100 amazing, committed, caring, knowledgeable staff that support each other as well as the families we serve.