If you’re about ready to click your way to a completed shopping list online—stop! Consider shopping small at these independent toy stores in Dallas that have passionate employees ready to share their personal recommendations and tons of perks (think: local delivery or curbside pickup, free gift wrapping, and the opportunity to test-drive the merchandise). You can pick out the perfect gift for all the little ones on your list while supporting local businesses. It’s a win-win.
You’ll find loads of toy options and tons of helpful salespeople at The Toy Maven. They have three locations to choose from, or you can shop via their new website. Not sure what to get? You can narrow your options by age or interest to get some suggestions.
6025 Royal Lane
Dallas, TX
5600 W Lovers Lane
Dallas, TX
1275 East Southlake Blvd.
Southlake, TX Online: thetoymaven.com
2. Toys Unique!
You’ll love this toy store in Dallas as it is a local, family-owned business in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex that has been bringing continuous joy into children’s lives for 40 years. They offer complimentary gift wrapping, which definitely comes in handy when you remember you need a gift on the day of a party.
This chic boutique has a mix of everything from books, toys, and art supplies to apparel—with options, including gender-neutral, for babies through tweens. The store was created from a love of fashion and seeing happy kids dressed in clothes that make them feel confident and excited to begin each day. The store’s owners pride themselves on sourcing the best quality, natural fabrics, and conscientious production from the brands they select.
You’ll be totally impressed by the quality of toys offered at We Are the Missfits. That’s intentional— the products are cultivated to stimulate the brain and encourage self-expression through fashion, art, science, and literature (Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty, anyone?). Sure, they also carry stuff that is just for fun, but prepare to feel inspired when in the store. If you can’t pop inside, that’s OK. They offer curbside pickup and free delivery within five miles of the store.
CAMP is a toy store and more—known for its totally unique shop-play hybrid experience in its locations across the country. Inside this CAMP store, visitors can take part in rotating themed experiences, kids are encouraged to try out loads of toys they have available, and there’s even a cafe for parents. Every surface is a seamless blend of play and product.
9830 N. Central Expressway
Dallas, TX Online: camp.com
6. The Toy Store
The very reasonably named Toy Store in Snider Plaza offers eco-friendly, STEM-certified, and sustainable play toys for people of all ages. From baby toys to adult puzzles, they have you covered. And if you are super busy (like we know you are), they even offer free delivery within 10 miles.
Save some adorable snaps of your baby playing with their new toys—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Scroll Instagram or TikTok and just try to not get the shopping fever. Just. Try. It’s next to impossible to avoid getting lost in the sea of products that our favorite influencers recommend. Afterall, one of the best parts of social media is following non-celebs who know what they’re talking about when they show off their latest hauls. But, as relatable as our fave accounts may be, a lot of the goodies they share are expensive, right? Enter these amazing Amazon alternatives to pricier name brands.
These just-as-good-if-not-better finds are the perfect way to snag all the best trends out there without hitting a snag in your budget. And we’re not hating on the name brands, either! They’re name brands for a reason, of course. But if you’re looking for some excellent quality options that can save you money, these Amazon alternatives are the way to go.
Crossover Bootcut Leggings
Topyogas on Amazon
Our favorite millennial jeans and our favorite mom leggings combine to create these everyone-has-them yoga pants. The crossover waist is not only really flattering, but also keeps them pulled up and secure. Available in multiple colors, too.
Sure, you could cough up the $24 for the popular LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask, but wouldn't it be nice to pay a 4th of that? Over 2500 Amazon reviewers seem to think so.
What won't cost you $218? This fuzzy lounge set that's being hailed as an excellent alternative for the Skims Cozy Essentials Bundle. It also comes in a lot of colors.
We all love a Hydro Flask, but not everyone loves the $50 tag. This adorable insulated water bottle is the perfect alternative and comes in an array of fun hues for less than half the price.
No one expects a DIOR product to be inexpensive, so we weren't surprised by the $40 price tag for their fabulous DIOR Addict Lip Glow Oil. We just don't always want to pay that $40. This $6.95 lip oil is being raved about, and at that price, you can get all 4 for less than one tube of Lip Addict.
We have absolutely nothing against the CozyChic Throw from Barefoot Dreams, but we also know that $180 can be tough to swallow. For $39.99, you can get this alternative with the look and softness you're craving, without the steep price tag (so you won't freak out when your kids want to use it).
You've probably seen Gentle Monster Sunglasses on celebs and influencers, and we're here to tell you that these chic shades are $269. We'll be rocking the SOJOS sunnies for $15, thankyouverymuch.
The Everywhere Belt Bag from Lululemon made waves and got us falling back in love with "fanny packs", but if you aren't $48 worth of in love, how does $15.98 sound for this Amazon one?
We all know YETI has set the standard for keeping all things cold, and with summer officially here, a cooler is a must. The YETI 24 Hard Cooler will set you back $250, but if you'd rather save some cash, this portable cooler from East Oak can keep drinks cold for 4+ days for half.
Watch almost any makeup Reel, YouTube video, or tutorial and you'll be able to spot the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Contour Wand. Want to try your hand at contouring before making a $42 commitment? This $8 wand is way easier to invest in.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with spending real money on high quality-jewelry, like the Bottega Veneta Drop Earrings that it seems everyone is wearing. But if you're just looking for a fun trendy pair, these $13 teardrop earrings are a great go-to.
Die-hard Apple fans may not have any issue shelling out the $250 for AirPods Pro, but over 46K Amazon reviewers think this pair is a really legit option.
There's nothing like nice tools to make you want to cook, so we're absolutely picking up this $28 silicone cooking set (a steal when you consider this set from Cutlery Collection is $100).
Kiddos who can't stand a sandal between their toes or are just too active to keep them on will adore these water shoe + sneaker pair. And at $21, they're a big savings compared to the popular $35 Native pair.
It's hard to find anything not to love about a Stanley tumbler, except that it can definitely be tricky to find your favorite color in stock. The Simple Modern tumbler comes in 17 colors (and is $15 less).
The $20 Beauty Blender changed the way we applied our makeup, but that doesn't mean you want to continue to pay that every time you need to replace yours. Snag a set of six for $10, instead.
The almost 354,000 Amazon reviews of this mascara speak for themselves, but we'll pop in and remind you that Benefit's Lash Roller Mascara will run you $29.
Obviously, no one is shocked at the $4,100 price tag for the incredibly popular Love Ring from Cartier, but if you just want the vibe and not the second mortgage, this cute little ring is $9.
Looking to update your kiddo's space? This fun kid-size chair from Delta Children's is $90; a far cry from the Pottery Barn Kids version that'll run you $159.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Keeping your family organized can feel like a full-time job, but no one said you have to do it alone
Whether you’ve got toddlers or teenagers, family life is hectic—even the dog seems to have a schedule. Parents have to be impeccably organized to stay on top of the housework, groceries and meal planning, finances, and work obligations, not to mention the fact that if you’ve got school-aged kids, you’re a glorified chauffeur juggling school functions, extracurriculars, and sports. It’s a lot. And despite the cries that our kids’ extracurriculars are taking over our lives, we keep loading more and more onto our plates. But you don’t have to do it alone. There’s a slew of family organization apps that take the guesswork out of family life, from joint calendars to budget tracking and even remembering to share family photos with eager relatives. Here are 11 of our favorites, so you can hopefully sneak a bit of free time onto the calendar.
Cozi
Are you drowning in a sea of birthday parties and swim lessons and work events and “what’s for dinner”s? Then listen up. Easy to use and well-designed, Cozi serves triple duty as a shared family calendar, digital recipe box, and list keeper. No matter how many children you have or how old they are, seeing everyone’s schedules in one place (color-coded, no less) is a game-changer. Parents can also create shared grocery or to-do lists and meal plans so the burden doesn’t fall on just one person (we all know who that would be).
It’s us! Parents looking to bring some order to their unhinged smartphone collection of family photos can securely store the best of the best in Tinybeans (no more sets of 36 slightly different versions of the same baby photo hogging space). What’s more, you can instantly share them with relatives and friends. So if responding to your mother-in-law’s constant (and well-meaning) requests for baby updates is becoming a time-suck, the app sends them emails or notifications whenever you post a new milestone, photo, or video—and sends you regular reminders to post. Along with your best memories, you can track all of your kids’ most exciting milestones and achievements through the years. And every so often, when you’ve got a good collection of photos, throw them into a cute album and order your physical copy straight through the app.
Anyone who’s been forced to listen to a symphony of “I’m huuuuungry”s while staring into the refrigerator at 5 p.m. in a complete, dinner-less panic will have a deep appreciation for the Plan to Eat. The personalized app takes all the guesswork out of meal planning. Plan to Eat lets you choose recipes from anywhere on the web, import them to your recipe box, and automatically create a shopping list with items sorted by store and aisle. The only thing it can’t do is chop the onions for you (will I ever not cry!?).
Paying late fees on bills you forgot about is such a bitter pill to swallow, especially when you could have used that money for a latte to get you through yet another toddler gymnastics session. If you’re looking to track and manage all of your family’s bills in one place, check out the Bills Organizer and Reminder app (your credit score will thank you). You can quickly look over all upcoming bills in the app’s dashboard view, and rest assured that you’ll receive payment reminders before each bill is due (whether the app is open or closed). To make life even easier, set up automatic payments for recurring bills so you don’t even have to think about them. The free version lets you manage up to five accounts.
Cost: Free or paid ($2.99 for unlimited accounts and $1.99 for no ads) on Apple App Store.
2houses
If you’re co-parenting or part of a blended family, not only does the 2houses app keep everyone’s schedules organized, but it does it for two households. Everyone can view and edit a shared calendar, and it helps with one of the hardest aspects of separation and divorce: finances. The app manages all expenses paid by each parent to give a clear view of what’s being spent on the kids and who’s spending it. The “Custody Journal” is a sweet touch, letting each parent share photos, information, videos, and news with the other parents. So when it’s not your day with the kids, you can still feel like part of the family.
Budgeting is arguably one of the most important aspects of family planning, but it really does eat up a lot of time. Mint not only takes the guesswork out of budgeting for you, but it sorts all of your purchases into categories so you can keep track of where you’re spending (and potentially find some smart ways to save). For the fullest snapshot, you can link all of your accounts in one place—your checking account, savings account, credit cards, investments, and property. The app alerts you if you’re getting close to going over budget or into overdraft, and garners insights from your spending habits to offer tips on where to save money—all of which set you up to achieve your stated financial goals.
Syncing calendars is super useful for busy families, but TimeTree has the bonus of a chat room where you can share photos and discuss upcoming events and calendar changes. To keep your whole group in the loop, everyone receives a notification when someone changes or reschedules something on the cal and when a new event is added. There’s also the option to have additional calendars, like one with your mom group or extended family.
Being a “flake” isn’t typically a good thing, but Flayk, the family organization app, is a great thing. Not only does it have a shared calendar for everyone in your family, as well as the option for everyone to receive event reminders, but the premium version of Flayk also has a points system for completed tasks. You can incentivize your brood to do chores around the house or finish their homework with customized rewards, like a movie night, a trip to the amusement park, or a family vacation. Plus, if you “Flayk” on a task, you can assign it to someone else. And if you want to lean into the “it takes a village” philosophy, you can link your Flayk to other families or groups who use the app to make sure absolutely nothing gets missed.
Free or paid (Premium for $1.99 per month) on Apple App Store and Google Play.
IFTTT
Creating lists and reminders to get things done can take as much time as actually doing the damn things, so why not automate some of those basic tasks. That’s the beauty of IFTTT (an acronym for “If This, Then That”). It works with more than 600 apps, including Telegram, Twitch, Weather Underground, Google Drive, Gmail, and Spotify, and integrates with devices like Amazon Alexa, Nest, Google Home, and Philips Hue. The app’s a fave for businesses, but families can also benefit from a little automation—like getting the weather forecast every morning, changing your thermostat when you go out of town, warning you if temps drop and you need to move your plants inside, or starting a specific playlist when you get in the car so your kids don’t freak out.
These states are gearing up for Tax Free Weekend (because those school supplies aren’t going to pay for themselves)
If you’ve been putting off school supply shopping, are in the market for a big purchase, or you’re ready to stock up on clothes, it’s possible your procrastination is about to pay off (we’re right there with you!). Several states across the U.S. have tax free holidays, which means two full days (if not longer) of skipping the sales tax on your shopping trips. And, probably not-so-coincidentally, these Tax Free Weekends land right around the back-to-school rush.
It’s totally possible your state is one that’s participating. But, keep in mind that some businesses may have to collect local or city taxes, and some states don’t have sales tax to begin with (you lucky ducks!). You may also be able to find websites that offer Tax Free Weekend deals, and Amazon will honor individual states’ sales tax holidays, too. Check out the list and see if you have a big shopping weekend in your future.
With so many choices of amazing hotels in LA, it’s near impossible to pick a family-friendly, close-to-it-all, worthwhile boutique experience…until now
While it’s true that LA is full of covetable hotels and swoon-worthy spots to relax for a few days (whether you’re visiting as a tourist or love to take to staycation around LA), there aren’t many properties that compare to the storied Garland Hotel, located in Studio City (technically North Hollywood but the lines are blurry here) on seven, lush, explorable acres.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Los Angeles or a close-to-home LA getaway, this hotel, first opened by actress Beverly Garland in 1972, delivers all the family-friendly amenities. From farm-fresh food that is worth reserving a table on any given night (even if you aren’t staying at the hotel), a large, splash-worthy pool that will keep the kids occupied for hours, an outdoor game and lounge area called The Courtyard, complete with corn hole and fire pits, and a secret Universal Studios Hollywood hack that will save you loads of time and money—there’s a reason why it keeps getting rated as one of LA’s top 20 hotels.
The Garland has nailed the retro styling without being cliche, and the hotel looks fab for its age—having just celebrated its 50th birthday in 2022. The lobby is warm and welcoming (a floor-to-ceiling fireplace is an obvious draw) but there are various nooks and crannies located nearby that are perfect for tucking in with the family over mocktails and a good book (or portable digital devices if you’re so inclined).
The hotel feels like an intimate boutique and channels that quintessential LA vibe that even the kids will think is downright groovy.
Believe it not, not everyone in LA has a pool (including hotels) and finding one large enough to splash around is also not a given—space is a premium in LA after all despite its urban sprawl. Except, at The Garland, the pool reigns supreme here and is large enough to host a slew of people, as well as host special dive-in movies, where kids of all ages can enjoy a classic flick starting at sundown (daily in the summer, and on weekends year-round).
Parents will love easy access to the snacks and drinks Lobby Bar (lean into the theme and order the Purple Power and The Garland), and as the temperature dips, everyone can cozy up to the fireplace—extending the day into those dreamy California nights.
3. The Hotel Is Close to All Things LA
Located conveniently on Vineland St., these are just some of our favorite hot spots in the Valley for nearby exploring and shopping:
Tujunga Ave. is a 15-minute walk or 5-minute car ride and is an adorable street full of cute boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Ventura Blvd. is a 7-minute walk from the hotel and Sportsman Lodge Shops are just 10-minutes away by car.
The Brady Brunch House (the country’s 2nd most photographed home) is just a 10-minute walk, or a 2-minute drive away from the hotel.
Universal Studios Hollywood is 5-minutes away via car (or trolley—see more on that below!).
This isn’t camp…or is it? There’s so much daily programming at The Garland that you could probably spend a week here with the family, and never repeat the same activity twice. Look, camps are expensive but here, at The Garland, the whole family can take advantage of all the fun things to do, most without an added fee. Some of our favorites? Urban and art walks through the neighborhood. And of course, don’t miss the yoga classes, live music, and happy hours sprinkled throughout the day.
5. The On-Site Gift Shop Is One of the Best Gift Shops We’ve Ever Seen
A stand-out gift shop that made our California-based heart swoon, you’ll find items that have been locally sourced and California-inspired that you (best part) won’t find anywhere else thanks to the shop-worthy eye of Carrington Goodman, Beverly Garland’s daughter. This means, The Shop, as it’s known, needs to be on your go-to local birthday/holiday gift shopping list. The only bummer is that it’s not online. But believe us when we say it is absolutely worth the stop. We’re still obsessing over the Backroad Beekeeping California Wildflower Honey, and the California-themed toys, mugs, journals, and incense cones.
6. Dining at The Front Yard, The Garland’s On-Site Restaurant Gets Two-Thumbs Up
One our favorite places to go with kids in LA (even when we aren’t staying over), as well as an epic spot for take-out, The Front Yard delivers kid-friendly food along with adult-pleasing bites. The atmosphere is peak California casual—with a heavy dose of that iconic golden Calfornia setting sunshine that makes everyone look and feel good. The Front Yard is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—and the only problem is that everything sounds so good, it’s hard to narrow it down to just one choice (which is why it’s a such a good, regular go-to spot). Most recently, we had, and highly recommend: Mary’s Chicken—a shawarma spiced chicken with a kaleidoscope of vegetables and the Beeee Yourself mocktail—a drink made up of lavender, lemon, honey, and sparkling water.
Andie Huber
7. The Garland’s Universal City Hack That’ll Save You Tons of Money
The Garland has a free trolley that will take you and your crew up to Universal Studios Hollywood for free. Yep, you read that right. This offer alone will save you $70 if you were to park in the Front Gate parking lot (not to mention the time it will take to park, and then walk all the way to the entrance of Universal Studios).
And that’s not all—The Trolley also stops at the Universal City metro station, which provides easy access to Hollywood and DTLA.
The Trolley departs the hotel every hour on the hour from the hotel, starting as early as 7:00 a.m. until 10 p.m.
The Garland Hotel
4222 Vineland Ave.
North Hollywood Online:thegarland.com
Your Cheat Sheet for Having the Best Time at Super Nintendo World Universal Studios Hollywood with Kids
Of course the big draw in the Valley (and LA!) is Universal Studios Hollywood and its newest attraction, Super Nintendo World. Opened in February 2023, this is where you’ll find the biggest crowds and the longest wait times. So here’s everything you need to know about visiting Super Nintendo World before you go to Universal Studios Hollywoods to maximize your time, money, and of course, fun.
1. Download the Universal Studios Hollywood Mobile App: This must-use tool shows all the wait times for various rides and show times allowing you to plan out your day, as well as allow you to quickly pivot if one of your must-do rides, suddenly drops in wait times. Thankfully the park is relatively easy to navigate, meaning, no ride or area is that far away.
2. If Super Nintendo World is a can’t-miss on your Universal Studios Hollywood list, you have to get to the park as early as possible. Here are the ways to make sure you experience the wonderful world of Mario and friends.
Buy the Super Nintendo World Early Access Ticket, starting at $20. This will give you access to Super Nintendo World an hour before the park opens to the general public.
If you forgo the Super Nintendo World Early Access Ticket, get to the park when it opens, and once you enter the park, join the ‘Virtual Line’ for entry to Super Nintendo World. Here, you’ll get an assigned time to enter Super Nintendo World to play and hang out—rather than get turned away if the area is too crowded. This does not mean you get to skip the line at the Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge attraction.
If you and your guests aren’t set on riding the ride together, we recommend joining the Single Rider Line as you’ll most likely be able to expedite your wait time.
If you purchase a Universal Express Pass or VIP Pass (more on that below), you can gain entry into the land without a Virtual Line reservation, but this does not expedite any wait times for the Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge attraction.
If you aren’t willing to wait in line for two (plus) hours, your next best bet is to hang out at the park until late at night, and see if the queue time subsides. Most of rides dramatically decreased in wait times after 6 p.m. (although the park closes anytime between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m depending on the day, so it’s still a gamble to wait at night).
Splurge Alert: If you can afford it, splurge for the Universal Express Pass or the VIP Pass. These passes allow you into fast pass lanes (except Mario Kart) throughout the park (the Express Pass is a one-time use per ride) although both allow you entry into Super Nintendo World without reservations. The VIP Pass comes with even more perks—it allows you to go in the fast pass lane an unlimited amount of times (except Mario Kart), a private tour of the backlot, valet parking, a gourmet meal along with snacks and drinks, and more.
photo: Andie Huber
Sweeten a Day at Universal Studios Hollywood with Chocolate
To cap off a fabulous day at Universal Studios Hollywood, make dinner reservations at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen—a steampunk/factory-inspired restaurant located on the Universal Studios CityWalk. It’s an easy-going dinner experience that will help wind down everyone from a great day of fun in the sun.
The experiential concept restaurant is based around Penelope and and her sidekick-robot Jacques who created a chocolate emporium to help reunite her with her family. The menu is inspired by chocolate and infuses it everywhere it can—from savory dishes like the cocoa pork tenderloin to sweet escapes like milkshakes and order-worthy sundaes. The portion sizes are generous (keep that in mind if ordering appetizers, a main, and a dessert), and the food tasted delicious—even if the stars of the show are the desserts. Keep an eye out for Penelope and Jaques who are known to walk around and chat with the guests—the cheeky and charming duo can bring a smile to even the most smile resistant.
The Garland Hotel
4222 Vineland Ave.
North Hollywood Online:thegarland.com
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by the Garland Hotel but all opinions belong to the writer.
Are you tired of trying to keep track of your family’s busy schedule? So are we. Do you find yourself constantly forgetting appointments, events, and deadlines? Us, too. We get it. The Cozi app is here to make it all a little less… juggly. Think of it as the ultimate family organizer, helping you stay on top of everyone’s schedules, grocery lists, and even dinner plans.
The beauty of the app is that it gives every family member access to the same calendar and information, making it possible for everyone to be on the same page.
Family Calendar
The Cozi app features a shared calendar, where every family member can add events and commitments, making it incredibly easy to keep track of everyone’s schedules in one place. The app’s color-coded calendar creates a visual reference that helps you stay up to date with everybody’s plans at a glance. No more surprise PTA meetings or forgotten birthday parties!
The Cozi app also sends out notifications reminding everyone of the upcoming events on the family calendar, so you’ll never be caught snoozing. but it can also include the grandparents, who love to stay up to date on the kids’ schedules, or the nanny and frequent babysitters.
To-Do Lists
The Cozi to-do list is truly next level. It’s like having a personal assistant who doesn’t talk back (because let’s be honest, sometimes we could all benefit from that). Create a personal to-do list, a honey do list, or individual chore lists for the kids. You can add as many lists as you want: emergency supplies list, packing list, camping supplies, project tasks—whatever you need. Assign to-do lists to family members so everyone can pitch in. Easily reorder items by priority and add headers to organize, too!
Shopping Lists
With the Cozi app, grocery shopping has never been easier. When you create a shopping list on Cozi, you can add items directly from your pantry, view them by category, and even add notes in case your significant other keeps forgetting whether you like crunchy or smooth peanut butter. With this app, it’s almost like you have your own personal shopping assistant
Additionally, the Cozi app lets you easily share lists with others, so no more misunderstandings about which brand of toilet paper to buy. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need to pick up a few things, the Cozi app is definitely the most convenient way to make it happen.
Recipes
You can also import recipes from your favorite websites, enter your own family favorites, and even plan out your meals for the week. Gone are the days of standing in front of the fridge wondering what to make for dinner. With the Cozi Recipe Box and Meal Planner, you can search for recipes by ingredient or meal type, and even add them directly to your grocery list.
Cozi Home
The Cozi Home screen shows you everything you’ve got going on each day in a quick and easy view that includes upcoming appointments, your current to-dos, and recently added shopping list items.
In a world that’s constantly changing and moving at lightning speed (we’re talking about the parenting world, of course), it’s so important to have a tool that can keep up with our daily lives. The Cozi app is that pocket-sized superhero.. So go ahead, download the app and be amazed by what you can get done.
We’ve got recommendations for car camping tents, backpacking tents, and even tents that will help your kids nap (fingers crossed!)
With summer inching its way in and vacation plans getting locked in, now is the perfect time to pick out your next family tent and plan a campout. We’ve got recommendations for car camping tents, backpacking tents and even extra dark tents that will help your kids nap (fingers crossed!). Camping with kids can be an awesome experience that is only made better with a little planning. Scroll through and get ready for your next outdoor adventure!
If you are stressed about setting up your tent by yourself, fear not! This is definitely the easiest tent setup we've come across and that's saying a lot. Bonus: you have openings on both sides of the tent so you won't wake your camping partner when you get up to make the coffee in the morning.
While many families like multiple doors to allow easy access to the tent, those with little campers might want to consider this single-door option from Kelty to keep the comings and goings to a minimum. The Kelty Tallboy comes in four- and six-person sizes and, as the name implies, has a very tall interior of 70 inches (72 in the six-person) that's perfect for getting the kids dressed in the morning. The reinforced fiberglass poles and color-coded scheme make for a sturdy and easy-to-use setup.
You'll love this barrel-shaped tent because it is sturdy when the wind kicks up and super easy to set up and take down. Two large doors make in-and-out access easy and color-coded poles mean you can totally assign set up to the tweens.
Best Introduction to Backpacking Tent for Families
We love this new backpacking tent from NEMO as it is spacious, includes a footprint and has a great price point. Two doors and vestibules provide easy access and gear storage. Light Pockets™, duffel storage bag and gear pockets complete the package. Add on a Pawprint, and you can bring your four-legged friend along without worrying about your pup's paws wrecking your floor.
This tent comes in 2-, 4- and 6-person options (we recommend sizing up to allow room for your gear). The covered vestibule allows for extra storage space.
Start your camping trip off right with this easy-to-set-up tent from Coleman. We love the added dark room technology that keeps out 90% of the sunlight. This is key for families with little ones who still need to nap during the sunny hours of the day (which is almost impossible with a regular tent). It also helps during the summer months when the sun doesn't go down until much later. An added benefit is that the dark room technology will keep your tent much cooler by blocking the sun's rays during the heat of the day.
The Blacktail Hotel from Big Agnes is a do-everything tent offered at an accessible price. It's light enough for the backcountry and strong enough for the front country. The Blacktail Hotel's fly doubles the living space of the tent—giving your family, your gear and your dog more than enough space.
This six-person dome tent features a separate screen room for insect-free lounging and extra sleeping space. We love it for summer camping because there is ample ventilation to keep it cool while you sleep. Two queen air mattresses and gear have plenty of room in the main compartment, and set up is intuitive due to the Fast Pitch™ system.
Look at the tent's floor space when deciding what size to purchase. A tent that sleeps four is going to sleep four pretty tightly (often alternating head to foot). If you want space for gear and air mattresses you will likely want to increase the size of your tent.
Practice setting up your tent in advance. There's nothing worse than arriving at a campsite late in the day or in the dark and having no idea how to set up your tent.
Think about what extras you might need for your tent. Does your tent come with a footprint? Should you bring a tarp to put underneath to keep the moisture out? Extra tent pegs and a rubber mallet always help with tent setup, especially on a firm surface.
Weatherproof your tent before you go. Water resistant is not the same as waterproof. Apply seam sealer to keep water out of your tent.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
This is the time for great savings events! The best baby and kids sales are here.
Winter is winding down (even if it doesn’t feel quite like it is yet), and with February being full of notable days, there are sales on sales on sales! From President’s Day to Groundhog Day to Valentine’s Day to Spring being right around the corner, retailers are jumping on the opportunity to offer some serious savings. If you’re anything like us, your inbox is full of deals that all “can’t be missed”. So how do you keep track of it all? You don’t. That’s our job. We’ve rounded up some of the best baby and kids sales (and these really can’t be missed!).
IFC/Giphy
These sales cover it all. Whether you’re looking to refresh your kiddo’s wardrobe, need to update baby gear, or just snag some odds and ends, we’ve got you covered. We’ve also made sure to cover our favorite brands so you don’t miss out on any of these great steals and deals. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on these. Get your shopping list ready and start scrolling our list of the best baby and kids sales for February! And remember that some of these end soon, so don’t miss out!
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
We’ve got more than just a few sales for you; welcome to Pre-Black Friday Sales 2022!
Get ready. This is a very special edition of our Weekly Sales Roundup. Every week, we bring you the best of the best steals, deals, and sales out there, and today is no exception. What makes it a special edition, then, you ask? Today, we’re not just rounding up some fun sales. Today, we’re also showcasing (drum roll): the best Pre-Black Friday Sales of 2022!
Standing in long lines outside the mall right after Thanksgiving dinner is so ten years ago. Black Friday is now a whole November event, and we’re here to help you strategize. These Pre-Black Friday Sales include deep discounts on everything on your holiday list, including housewares, presents for the kiddos, decor, fashion, and so much more, right online. Forget missing out on pie in favor of setting up camp outside of your favorite store (plus, we’re really in favor of allowing our fantastic retail workers to enjoy time with their families, too. Many retailers have even done away with opening early on Thanksgiving and/or Black Friday all together!).
Worried about shopping too early and missing out on the best possible deals? Don’t sweat it! Lots of these Pre-Black Friday Sales also guarantee the best prices through the season, meaning that if something you’ve purchased ends up priced lower through their store, they’ll price match. So it’s safe to be an early bird this year! (Note: Make sure to double-check store policy regarding price matching if you have any questions!)
So get comfy and shift into Jolly Mode: our Special Edition Pre-Black Friday Sales 2022 Guide is here!
Everyone's favorite matching family PJ's are on major sale for the holidays—starting at only $20! While you're at it, get everyone holiday-ready for non-PJ activities with 40% off kids and baby clothes + free shipping!
You really can't go wrong with a Harry & David gift, whether it's for a boss, coworker, kid's teacher, relatives...everyone loves their offerings, and with good reason!
Pipette is one of our all-time favorite, clean, gentle, whole-family-ready skin and bath companies! And now that they're offering a Subscribe & Save option, we can save 20% and never worry about running out again!
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Support local businesses while ticking off your shopping list at these independent toy stores in Washington DC
No need to worry about shipping delays or supply chain strains when you can shop local and support businesses that give back to the communities they serve. Who doesn’t love a special gift from an extra-special store? These independent toy shops throughout Washington, DC and the surrounding suburbs have something for every kid (little to big) on your list, so you’ll be able to fill up the space under the tree with a well-curated selection of gifts.
Beautifully curated, sustainable, thoughtfully-designed children’s goods are always in stock at Three Littles. The shop, located in the Union Market district, is a place where families can find necessities and gifts. With an emphasis on items for babies through early elementary, the shop also features carefully chosen items for parents.
Serving DC since 1984, Fairy Godmother has an array of choices for kids from infant to teen and everything in between. Check out their collection of Steiff plush toys and collectables, as well as book-themed onesies for the literary lovers on your list. The store also offers craft and science kits as well as books, including some in Spanish. You'll feel as if your fairy godmother sent you here!
For a store with an emphasis on wooden toys and dolls you and your mom would recognize, Kinder Haus is a terrific place to shop. They sell Plan, Haba, Nilo, and RC2 wooden toys, Gund plush toys, and doll lines such as Corolle and Madame Alexander.
1220 N Fillmore St. Arlington, VA Online: kinderhaus.com
4. Doodlehopper
Let the delightful staff at Doodlehopper help you find the perfect gift for kiddos on your list, from infant to tween. At this Falls Church staple, you'll find a well-organized and carefully chosen selection of great toys, games, puzzles, and crafts.
This fun shop offers an extensive collection of toys for kids of all ages and a great arts and crafts section. Don't forget to check out their inventory of beloved miniature rubber figures—bring one home for each of your littles!
Insider Tip: Pop into Pastries by Randolph around the corner for a post-shopping coffee and Napoleon and bring home a box of tea cookies for the kids.
Enjoy classic toys alongside the newest releases available in a curated shop! They stock everything from Brio trains for your toddler to Exploding Kittens for your Tween and a huge variety in between.
Insider Tip: Try out the "Birthday Vault" with your little one. Simply visit the store two weeks before their birthday and help them fill the birthday basket with all of the items they're wishing for. When the basket is full, Go Bananas will write your child's name on it and secure it in their Birthday Vault. The "wishes" will be held on reserve for your child—or for friends and family in search of an approved gift—up until a day after their birthday party or birthday.
In Takoma Park, this shop specializes in toys with exceptional educational value for all ages. Owner Lisa Ripkin works with customers to find toys that best match their interests and can order specific products just for you if you can’t find what you’re looking for in store.
Insider Tip: Fair Day's Play partners with Art for the People, a non-profit that brings art to communities. Check out their website to find out about upcoming crafting events!
Anglo Dutch Pools and Toys was founded in 1985 as a mom-and-pop pool maintenance store, which quickly expanded into carrying pool toys. Before long, customers wanted "land" toys, too. Today, the business carries a huge variety of toys, games, books, and puzzles. True to their roots, they also have a wonderful selection of aquatic toys and swimming necessities like goggles and suits.
Aptly named, owner Michelle McNaughton has plenty of toys out for your kiddos to test-drive, which makes for a shopping experience that is so much more than basic browsing—you can really uncover the items your little ones will actually love. In fact, it's so interactive, you may have a hard time getting the kids to leave! With loads of unique, hard-to-find, and classic toys, the PLAYroom earns its moniker.
Insider Tip: Really having a hard time making an exit? Don't worry, you can tempt them with a horse cookie from The Upper Crust, an old fashioned bakery just around the corner.
This toy store opened its doors in 1956 when there was nowhere in Middleburg to buy children’s clothes or toys, The Fun Shop is chock-a-block with excellent toy and gift options. Their 6,000-square-feet of merchandise also has great gifts for the grown-ups on your list.
115 W. Washington St. Middleburg, VA Online: thefunshop.com
11. Dancing Bear Toys and Games
Founded with the goal of creating a happy place to spark inventive play and imagination, The Dancing Bear in Frederick is worth the drive, especially when you also visit its sister bookstore, The Curious Iguana. If you have the kids in tow, there is a little play area that keeps small hands busy.
Insider Tip: Walk up a block to N. Market St. and you'll find sweet teacher gifts at Perfect Truffle.
15 E. Patrick St. Frederick, MD Online: dbeartoys.com
12. Curious Iguana
For an independent bookstore with an incredible children's section, head around the corner to Dancing Bear's sister store, Curious Iguana.
