You might need to dig out the summer clothes to check this one! The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced that Target has recalled around 181,000 Cat & Jack One-Piece Rashguards that were sold via Target.com and in stores from Dec. 2019 through Oct. 2020 for $15.
Target reports that the item in question has snaps that can break or detach. The recall includes the Summer Blue Lemon, the Coral Icon Story Hawaiian and the Moxie Peach Lemon Rashguards in sizes 12M - 5T. The product item number can be found on the white tag inside of the suit, click here to check the CPSC website in order to cross-reference your purchased item with the recalled products.
Target has received 27 reports of the snaps breaking or detaching, including one report of a laceration. If you have a recalled Rashguard, return it to Target for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact Target at 800-440-0680 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT daily or online at www.target.com and click on “Recalls” at the bottom of the page, then on “Clothing” for more information. Consumers can also click the “Product Recalls” tab on Target’s Facebook page for more information.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced that Target has recalled approximately 299,000 Cloud Island Rompers. According to Target, the snaps can break come loose from the rompers which poses a choking, laceration and pinching hazard.
Rompers included in the recall include the Cloud Island Waterfront Baby Boutique Romper, Cloud Island Little Peanut and True Navy Rompers, Cloud Island Little Wildflower and Joyful Mint Rompers, Cloud Island Oh Honeybee and Pink Rompers, and Cloud Island Floral Fields and Mint Rompers. The rompers were sold in sizes newborn to 12M.
Visit the CSPC website to see the complete list of rompers included in the recall. To see if your items are recalled, located the product item number on the white tag inside of the rompers.
To date, Target has received 16 reports of the snaps breaking, detaching, or missing from the rompers and one report of a child being pinched.
The Cloud Island rompers were sold at Target stores nationwide, Target.com, GoogleExpress.com and Shipt.com from Jul. 2019 through Oct. 2020 for $10 for a single romper and $11 for 2-pack rompers set.
If you have a recalled romper, immediately stop using and return them to any Target Store for a full refund. You can also contact Target to receive a prepaid return label to return the items via mail.
We took a cue from Mr. Rogers and looked for the helpers, and when we did, we found some truly inspiring parents. Theses local moms and dads remind us that simple ideas really can make a big difference in the lives of others. Read on to discover Seattle parents who are making a difference and keep the good vibes rolling!
It wasn’t the pandemic that inspired Alison Scott to try her hand at entrepreneurship. It was her years of experience as a pediatrician, watching parents share the same questions and concerns that lead her develop babydocbox. This northeast Seattle mom of two launched babydocbox in November. It’s a thoughtfully curated subscription box that puts a pediatrician’s expertise at parents’ fingertips. Each themed box focuses on a different first-year developmental milestone, like sleep, feeding and illness to name a few. The boxes are filled with high-quality, safe, practical and fun products from local small businesses (and a few big ones too), alongside practical tips and advice straight from the pediatrician’s mouth. There’s a little something for moms in there too. (As a doctor, Scott realizes the seriousness of postpartum depression and includes postpartum resources and information in each box.) A year’s subscription includes six boxes, but parents can jump in any time during those first twelve months to get in on the action.
When the pandemic first hit, Tara Clark decided to call three friends each day just to check in on them. It was the call to her friend Vikki Cha that set things in motion for these three Seattle moms. Vikki was concerned about the impact the Pike Street Market’s closing would have on her parents, both farmers who sell their flowers there. So Tara offered to help, imagining she could sell the famed flowers on the sidewalk outside her Capitol Hill home. She spread the word through her social network and within five hours had pre-sold 50 dozen flowers to be picked up the next day. The next day she sold 100 dozen…then 200 dozen… then 250 dozen…and things blossomed from there.
Vikki, Tara and Xee worked non-stop those first few months coordinating with the Hmong farmers, and they saw first hand how excited people were to support the growers. As Tara explains, things came together organically, from the Mercer Island friend who sold over 100 dozen flowers on the island in a day, to a man who volunteered to build the group’s website, to connecting with Matt Galvin, co-owner of Pagliacci Pizza, who helped them set up pick-up spots in Madison Park, West Seattle and on Mercer. In the end, 53 Hmong growers sold with them and the season isn’t over yet.
Extra impact: Tara is also the force behind the Believe Love Unite signs you’ve probably seen (and possibly have) around town that start,“In this house, we believe…” Since she started selling the signs just three short years ago, she’s donated over $75,000 to non-profits like KUOW, The Village of Hope Seattle, Planned Parenthood, International Rescue Committee, It Gets Better Project and more.
Connect:Order flowers from the Pike Market growers through the end of the fresh flower season and get your Believe Love Unite merch here.
Donte Felder
courtesy Donte Felder
Award-winning teacher and father of four, south Seattle dad Donte Felder is the force behind the innovative South End Stories arts program. Funded by a Best Start Kids grant, the program focuses on engaging kids in four-dimensional learning experiences through the arts. Kids in the program make films, write poems and produce plays that are culturally-relevant and meaningful to them. Now going in to its third year, the program started at Orca K-8. It has since expanded to include partnerships with Pathfinder, Center School and Chief Sealth High School, and this summer it included free classes open to everyone. The programming was an invaluable resource for many kids during the pandemic, as they learned the basics of music production, how to create great characters and even got to deconstruct Hamilton, the musical. The team behind South End Stories’ innovative trauma-informed arts practice will offer another iteration this fall when students are engaged in distance learning.
Connect: Learn more about South End Stories, its programs and how to support it here.
Jane Park
Jane Park
When Jane Park, Queen Anne resident and mom to two teens, started Tokki in October of 2019, she had no idea where her next entrepreneurial adventure would take her. Then Covid hit, and in April she got a call from fellow entrepreneur Lisa Sun, CEO of Gravitas, saying her frontline worker friends were in need of fabric masks. Jane and Lisa put two and two together—Lisa’s sewing and design resources, and Jane’s 100% tight weave quilter’s cotton fabrics—and started making masks. Within a few hours, they had hundreds of orders. As Jane explains, they “wanted to do some good in these crazy times,” so the pair decided to donate one mask to a frontline worker in need for every mask purchased as a way to give back. To date, over 14,000 masks have been given away, many to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
Extra impact: Everything about these masks is made is the USA, and the cotton fabrics are eco-friendly. They biodegrade in five months, compared to synthetic fabrics that take 20-200 years. Find out more about Tokki’s commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and being socially responsible.
The day the statewide school closures were announced, South Park resident and mom to two teens, Lashanna Williams got things together to cook hot breakfast for the kids in her community. As the Covid safety measures evolved, Lashanna realized she needed a way to feed people outside, where they could stay socially distanced. This is how the Neighborhood Pantries came to be. Lashanna and four neighbors—Shawna, Robin, Brad and Tim—got to work. They set out tent-covered tables in four different spots, started taking donations and planned buying trips using Tim’s truck to make deliveries. Each Pantry is stocked with food and other necessities, like soap, menstrual products and masks. For over 200 days the group has kept the tables going using 100% community-donated funds. Lashanna, working with organizations like Food Lifeline and Urban Fresh Food Collective, has also arranged food box pick-ups (about 300 each Friday) and hot meals for kids (about 400 weekly) at the South Park Community Center. Although the Neighborhood Pantries will scale back their offerings at the end of this month, the South Park Community Center efforts will continue.
Connect: Contribute to the Neighborhood Pantries and Fridge by Venmo-ing Lady Lashanna or help with area rent-assistance efforts online.
Erin Ashe & Rob Wiliams
Jackie Hildering
If you and the kids tuned in to the Virtual Marine Biology Camp last spring, you’re probably familiar with Seattle-based whale researchers, Erin Ashe and Rob Williams. When schools closed, they wanted to do something fun and engaging for their six-year-old daughter and her friends, so Rob texted 10 families asking if they wanted to join their virtual marine biology camp. And that's where it all started. When the camp ended in May, over 30,000 kids had tuned in twice weekly on the Elevenses, from at least 10 different countries, to learn with Erin, Rob and their colleagues. The scientist parents loved connecting with curious kids and found their enthusiasm for all things whales and dolphins to be a bright spot in the early days of the pandemic. When the research season started, they had to close up camp, but they have plans to bring it back this fall.
Extra impact: Erin and Rob’s friend and colleague, Karen Sinclair spent hours transcribing episodes and combing through kids' questions to create this downloadable ebook everyone can enjoy.
Connect: Support Erin & Rob’s marine conservation efforts and get caught up on episodes of the Marine Biology Camp online. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see where and what they're studying around the Sound. Psst... they'll be at the Ballard Locks until September 14 using a cool underwater sound device to protect the salmon, if you want to stop by.
Parents of the West Seattle BLM Mural
Erik Bell
In the heart of West Seattle you’ll find the collective work of this group of parents who are concerned about racial justice and are working for change. From the artists and organizers, to the volunteers, financers and vendors, the West Seattle Black Lives Matter mural is truly a group effort. One of the group’s organizers, Mary, noted that the mural is a way to amplify the voices and value the work of the artists who painted it (they were paid to work on this community project). It’s also, as art often is, an accessible point where anyone concerned about racial justice can reflect, interact and share their thoughts using a QR code. The group hopes the mural continues to be a focal point for racial justice and community building. They plan to keep up with the mural’s maintenance and will host a commemoration next year, with some community activities in between.
It was while on a walk in his West Seattle High Point neighborhood, passing signs congratulating graduating seniors, that Andrew Mead had an idea. He wanted to do something to help launch the neighborhood kids into their next life chapter, and he knew from experience that something as seemingly simple as a $500 scholarship could do just that. So Andrew is organizing a $10,000 fund to be divided into 20, $500 scholarships for High Point’s class of 2020. His scholarship goal is inspired in part by the High Point community vision that strives to “foster the development of a vibrant and caring community in High Point, committed to service, inclusiveness, lifelong learning and well being” and in part by the Martin Luther King, Junior scholarship, offered through the Mount Baker Community Club. Andrew and his wife, both local business owners, are parents to three young kids, and they want the seniors to know the community has their backs. His hope is to make this an annual award, and he plans to hand out this year’s scholarships in early October.
It was on a trail in upstate New York that Elisabeth Lepine stumbled upon a StoryWalk with her daughter. She was instantly struck by how engaged her kiddo was, running excitedly from sign to sign to see what happened next. When she returned home, she knew she needed to bring this same exciting literary outdoor adventure to her local community. She recruited friends Jasmin Thankachen and Beth Yost, and together these Eastside moms started PopUp StoryWalk. They see the PopUp StoryWalk as a way to bring the community together. From working with local publishers, writers and illustrators, to highlighting local indie bookstores on each book’s end panel, these moms are thoughtful in their approach to making literature accessible and equitable. This fall (and beyond) families can find PopUp StoryWalks at nearby parks and libraries in Seattle and on the Eastside.
Connect: See where the PopUp StoryWalk will be next or make a donation online.
Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman
courtesy Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman
Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman, who calls the Laurelhurst neighborhood home, has always been passionate about fashion and about helping refugee and immigrant women. An immigrant herself, this pharmacist mother of two teens was able to bring her passions together in 2016 when she started the non-profit Refugee Artisan Initiative. The program gives women artisans the chance to use their sewing skills to earn money and support their families, with the end goal of helping them become entrepreneurs. When Covid hit, Ming-Ming knew the RAI could help. She started a Go Fund Me and was able to raise enough money to make 75,000 masks for healthcare providers in the PNW.
The group has also started sewing BLM and Vote masks so people can wear what they believe. Twenty percent of these sales go to support the ACLU. Other innovative mask designs include the window mask, designed with people who are deaf and hard of hearing in mind, and the newly launched Sip ‘n’ Snack mask that will allow people to eat and drink without removing their masks.
For more than seven years, Redmond resident, Dhaarmika Coelho has been actively working to spread kindness in her community. She’s the mom of two daughters and the founder of Camp Kindness Counts, an Eastside non-profit working to “empower kids and families to embrace kindness as a core value to community building.” The program started as a summer camp for 15 kids in 2012, and has grown to include camps, family service days, partnerships with local school districts and more. It also led her to partner with University of California Berkely’s Greater Good Science Center to develop the Kind World Explorers guidebooks. Part of the Families Building Communities of Compassion initiative, these guidebooks bring research-based practices to parents, with a focus on fostering specific character traits like gratitude, generosity, forgiveness, authenticity and flexibility. In the time of Covid, Dhaarmika has continued the kindness summer camps virtually.
Extra impact: Families can download the free kindness curriculum developed by Camp Kindness Counts to enhance distance learning.
Connect: Learn more about Camp Kindness Counts or make a donation here.
When Seattleite Julie Keegan, mom of three, set out to start a leotard company over two years ago, she knew very little about the fashion and manufacturing industry. What she did know was that if she was going to bring a product to market, it would have to follow ethical practices, use organic materials and be sourced locally. Thus Beautiful Uproar was born. Julie’s company makes adorable striped leotards (sizes 2-14), with as little impact on the environment as possible. She’s considered everything about this product, from the California-grown cotton and 100% organic liners, to the eco-friendly packaging that’s fully compostable and recyclable (psst…even the backing on the sticker labels can be recycled). To further reduce the environmental impact, Julie uses a family-owned, Seattle business to manufacture the leotards, and that’s good for our local economy, too. What’s up next for this mom-prenuer? Giving back to the community through charitable donations.
Connect: Get your organic leotard from Beautiful Uproar online.
Ivan Kerbel
Ivan Kerbel
Like many parents in his Mount Baker neighborhood, Ivan Kerbel, father of two young kids, found himself in a familiar rock vs. hard place situation when schools shut down in spring—how to support kids' social, emotional and educational needs while trying to work. So he sat down and created the Nano School Project, aimed at connecting families based on geography, interests and kids’ ages as a way to solve this overwhelming problem. Since he started, he’s had more than 1,500 families fill out the group’s basic survey. With the help of a couple of UW computer science professors, he’s recently been able to pair families into nano groups of three to five kids. His model relies on things like safety, scheduling and pay for tutors being coordinated and decided hyper-locally. It’s here that groups are also addressing issues of equity, with many groups including one student in need and absorbing the cost. For Ivan this is about setting the right frame of mind around a real problem, understanding that doing something, whatever that may be, and using technology to bridge distances and gaps, is an important legacy we leave for our kids.
The one-night-only musical version of the Pixar and Disney film is being brought to life in a whole new way, with Broadway stars leading the way. Premiering Fri. Jan. 1, 2021 and available to stream for 72 hours, the event costs just $5 and can be purchased on todaytix.com.
So how did TikTok get involved with making a musical? It all started when TikTok user Emily Jacobsen posted a love ballad to Remy back in August, which kicked off other creators on the social media platform to do the same. Jacobsen is such a fan that she was even invited to get a sneak peak of the upcoming attraction at EPCOT!
Now, the fan-inspired musical is actually happening and with lots of stars that include Wayne Brady, Tituss Burgess, Kevin Chamberlin, Tony Award winner André De Shields, Andrew Barth Feldman, Grammy Award nominee Adam Lambert, Tony winner Priscilla Lopez, Tony nominee Ashley Park, Owen Tabaka, Ashley Park and three-time Tony nominee Mary Testa.e
Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical features original songs created by musical theater lovers on TikTok and will be performed by the 20-piece Broadway Sinfonietta orchestra. Proceeds benefit The Actors Fund, which has been supporting out-of-work performers and crew since Broadway shut down in March due to the pandemic.
With a slate of family-friendly flicks at the newest pop-up drive-in and a dino-mite drive-thru experience coming to the Rose Bowl, we are so ready for 2021. And we’re hopeful that many of our favorite outdoor destinations (like the L.A. Zoo and Aquarium of the Pacific) will reopen in the coming weeks. Read on for all the fun things that we can’t wait to do in the year ahead, plus get tips for staying connected in the meantime.
While we're hopeful that many of our favorite annual LA events will be happening later on in the year, there are no guarantees. But we do at least know that the upcoming Jurassic Quest Drive-Thru is a go! The event will take place at Pasadena's Rose Bowl Stadium, from Jan. 15-Jan. 31. Tickets are already on sale for the hourlong experience, which features over 70 life-like, animatronic dinosaurs.
In January, The Little Mermaid, Cars, Toy Story 4 and more will be showing at LA's newest pop-up drive-in, Rooftop Cinemas at the Santa Monica Airport. If you haven't made it to a drive-in yet, don't miss this opportunity. Bring blankets and pillows, pop open your trunk and let the kids settle in for a throwback big-screen experience.
On Dec.7, the Los Angeles Zoo closed due to the latest Stay at Home orders. (It had reopened back in October, with time entries, limited capacity and additional safety guidelines in place.) The Zoo announced that it would be closed for a minimum of three weeks. We're hopeful that it will open at some point later in January or February of 2021. And we can't wait to meet this little baby langur monkey who is giving us major Baby Yoda vibes. Also new to the zoo? An itty-bitty California Condor chick.
As Angelenos, we're fortunate enough to be able to enjoy outdoor dining pretty much year-round. Although even dining al fresco at our favorite restaurants is off-limits for now. But when it's once again safe to do so, we'll be visiting our favorite kid-friendly outdoor patios at these LA restaurants.
Feed the Moon Jellyfish at Aquarium of the Pacific
Long Beach's Aquarium of the Pacific was one of the first destinations to reopen this summer. Even with the indoor areas of the Aquarium closed, there was still plenty to see outdoors, including a Moon Jelly Touch Lab is, Stingray Touch Pool and Lorikeet Forest. Like the L.A. Zoo, the Aquarium announced in early December that it would be closed for at least three weeks. Until it reopens, we'll be zoning out with the Aquarium's animal webcams—we dare you not to feel more relaxed after watching these jellyfish drifting in the water.
Leisure travel is restricted for now, so even our jaunt to a nearby cabin rental had to be postponed. Once we get the green light, we can't wait to road trip it outta town.
Cayton Children's Museum in Santa Monica put their weekly outdoor event, Cayton Creators, on pause at the beginning of December. But we're optimistic it will be back in the new year. Check here for updates.
We're feeling nostalgic for the iconic merry-go-round, which hasn't seen any riders since pre-pandemic days. While all the rides on the pier are also closed, the pier itself is at least open if you want to take a stroll along the historic landmark.
Old train cars to explore, lots of grass to run around, a mini locomotive to ride—this is toddler heaven and we can't wait for it to reopen. Until then, we'll be exploring the trails of Griffith Park (and beyond).
Make a Splash at Kidspace
One of our favorite museums for kids has been closed for way too long. As much as we love all the online content they're giving us, we can't wait to be there again IRL.
Have a Ball at an Indoor Playground
Let's be honest: Ball pits were already a germaphobes worst nightmare, even if kids can't get enough of them. Maybe one day when the pandemic is behind us, we'll be able to watch our little ones slide into a mass of plastic balls and only cringe a little.
Many of us rang in 2020 with high expectations and exciting resolutions. Little did we know a global pandemic was on its way. COVID-19 changed how most Portland families lived their daily lives. Everything from Portland schools to all the many Portland kid activities and events shut down. But, because we are an innovative community, Portland parents pivoted and found new ways to make daily life awesome for their kiddos. With a vaccine being distributed and 2021 on it’s way, there’s hope that some of our favorite family-friendly Portland activities and businesses will reopen. The following are just some of the things we are looking forward to in 2021!
While families have been able to stream entertainment at home, there's nothing quite like taking the kids out to the theater. There are several Portland movie theaters that cater specifically to families with kids. They offer special movie times and awesome snacks too!
Being in Awe at OMSI
Where can we even begin? OMSI is one of our favorite spots for Portland families and kids to explore. We can't wait to get our science on with OMSI's awesome featured exhibits, hands-on experiences and fantastical theater. 2021 can't get here fast enough.
Exploring at the Portland Children's Museum
Oh how we miss the Portland Children's Museum. We can't wait until Portland kids can once again spend hours exploring our world through hands-on play at this amazing museum created just for little ones. It also offers parties for little ones and camps! We are counting the days...
Getting Wet & Wings and Waves Waterpark
Summer, fall, winter or spring; Wings and Waves Water Park is the perfect place to let the kids splash and play. We miss shooting down the slides and splashing in the vortex pool. Then there's the attached Aviation and Space Museum offering hours and hours of galactic discovery. This Portland family activity and attraction is one of our very favorites.!
There's nothing quite like the sound of bowling a strike at one of Portland's local bowling alley's. And our local bowling alleys are as cool as Portland is weird. For kids who don't want to bowl, many of them have arcades and next level nibbles for hungry competitors. We can't wait to get back to gathering together to avoid the gutters while listing to groovy music, playing, dining and drinking together. You can find our favorite bowling alley's here.
Getting Our Game On
Speaking of playing, we can't wait to hit the arcades again! Portland arcades are truly awesome. In fact, there are even a couple nickle arcades that make letting your kids play for hours pretty darn cheap. You can prop up and munch on snack while your little ones go wild playing pin ball, Donkey Kong, or whatever it is that the kids are playing these days!
Festivals, Festivals & More Festivals
Portand is one of the most festive places on earth. We bring the family-friendly music and events like nowhere else and we simply can't wait to get back to celebrating anything and everything we can find to celebrate with festivals. There are festivals that celebrate flowers and festivals that celebrate balloons. Portland has festivals that celebrate seasons and people who turn giant pumpkins into canoes. We even have a host of parades that celebrate things like mermaids!
Eating Out Inside
Eating out has been nearly impossible since COVID hit unless you are eating outside. While we love the outdoors, we aren't going to lie...we miss eating inside when we are eating out! Portland is packed with amazing family-friendly restaurants and we want to get back to gobbling down their offerings while our kids play and eat at the same time. From pizza to burgers to veggie spots and more, we are excited about going out to eat at Portland restaurants again!
Sending Kids to Classes & Camps
Portland parents love their kids. They really, really do. But man! We can't wait to send them off to camps and classes again. Dance classes, summer camps, art classes, science camps...we love them all, and so do our kids! We are counting the days until our little artists and dancers and scientists can head out with their peers while we sit in sweet, oh-so-sweet silence all by our lonesome again.
This amusement park has been in operation for over a hundred years. A whole year without the wonderland that is Oaks Park is enough. We can't wait to get back to enjoying the rides, racing across the roller rink, playing mini golf and more. We can't wait for Oaks Park to open up again in 2021!
Dancing at Concerts
Portland has always been a musical town. And our local musicians love kids. From concerts in the park to musicians at local stores and restaurants we can't wait until we can move and groove to their family friendly tunes again.
Going on Train Rides
2020 was full of road trips, but what we just can't wait to do in 2021 is hop on a nearby train. We miss seasonal trips through the wood and watching nature pass by while riding the rails. When things open up again, you'll want to check out these awesome train rides.
In the market for a new set of wheels? Finding the perfect family car can be a daunting task when you’ve got kids to consider. After all, you’re not just looking for a car that looks good; you’ve also got to make sure your ride has the best safety features, is roomy enough to fit your brood, and has enough trunk space to haul all that parenting paraphernalia (sports gear, stroller, diaper supplies, etc.). Not sure where to start? We scoured expert reviews to find the best all-wheel cars, SUVs and minivans for families in 2021. Keep reading to see them all.
Best Sedans
2021 Honda Accord (Hybrid or Standard)
Honda
Last year's winner of Edmund's Mid-Size Sedan category was also named one of the "Best Cars for Families" by U.S. News & World Reports—and this year's model offers a hybrid model so you can save money on gas and teach your kids a little about environmental stewardship. Hybrid or not, the Honda Accord is an inexpensive, reliable car that has everything a small family needs to stay safe and happy on the road.
Best family-friendly features:
U.S. News calls the interior "cavernous," with comfortable seating for five and room for three car seats/boosters in the back row
16.7 cubic feet of trunk space makes for one of the biggest in its class, says Edmunds.
Passenger seats have tons of pockets and bins for all your kids' books and small items
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone happy and warm (or cool)
Drawer inside the trunk for storing smaller items that may roll around while you're driving
Cargo hook for hanging grocery bags in the trunk
Wireless phone charger
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Impressive fuel efficiency at 30 city/38 highway mpg for the standard model; 48/47 mpg for the hybrid model
Safety features:
Collision mitigation braking system will automatically apply brakes when the car detects a collision is unavoidable
Road departure mitigation system detects if you're straying from your lane and will help correct you or apply brakes if needed
Available Head Up display shows important driving information—speed, directions and incoming calls—in the driver's line of sight.
Remotely lock your car or see fuel status from your phone
Blind spot information system
A multi-angle rearview camera with available cross-traffic monitor
Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto-lock lets you lock and unlock your car without taking out your keys
Rear occupant seat reminder makes sure you don't forget anyone in the back when you exit the car
Sure, the Toyota Camry used to have a reputation for just-blah styling, but the 2021 version of one of America's most popular car now looks as sleek and stylish as its pricier colleagues. New this year, all models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the automaker’s newest version of the groundbreaking driver assist technology suite that includes automatic emergency braking.
Best family-friendly features:
Two sets of LATCH car seat anchors in rear seats and upper anchor point for the middle seat
38 inches of rear legroom that make it easy to install car seats
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car. Amazon Alexa compatible, if you'd like Alexa's help while driving
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Economical gas mileage at 25 to 52 mpg depending on whether you're driving the standard or hybrid model
Safety features:
Integrated backup camera with projected path helps you park safely and easily
Toyota’s Safety Sense includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection that can detect not only the vehicle ahead but also a preceding bicyclist in the daytime and even a preceding pedestrian in low-light conditions. At intersections, the system may detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and may provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking.
Lane departure alerts
Automatic high beam headlights automatically switch from high to low beams when it detects an oncoming car
Road sign assist can recognize some road signs and display them on the information screen
Adaptive cruise control
Rear seat reminder prompts you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
Rear cross traffic alert notifies you if there are cars coming your way as you back up
Starting price: $24,970 for the standard LE model/ $27,270 for the hybrid model
A stylish choice for small families who prefer a more sophisticated look on a budget, this five-person crossover was rated as one of the top Small SUVs by Consumer Reports, and is described by Edmunds as a "top contender in the compact crossover segment." It's a good choice if you're going to drive the same car to soccer as you are to the office.
Best family-friendly features:
Roomy interior
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
10.5-inch infotainment screen
Available heated front and rear seats
Wifi hotspot capabilities
Two USB ports
Rear power liftgate available in upper trims
Safety features:
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Blind spot monitoring
Lane departure warning
Rear cross traffic alert helps detect if there's a car coming your way as you're backing up
Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go will let the car do the driving for you, maintaining a safe distance with the car in front of you (and stopping if the car in front of you stops)
Day and night pedestrian detection will detect and, if necessary, apply the brakes to avoid hitting a pedestrian
Connect to the car via the Mazda app to start the engine remotely, lock and unlock the doors (so if you can't remember whether your kids left the doors unlocked, you can always check via your phone), check whether your lights are on and more. It can also help you find where you parked your car
Rear seat occupant reminder reminds you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
Comfortable and supple, according to Consumer Reports, the Subaru Forester works great for smaller families who don't want an SUV but still want a car with good off-road capabilities and standard all-wheel drive. New for 2021, the top safety-rated Subaru added steering responsive headlights (the lights move in the direction you steer) high beam assist and a rear seatbelt reminder that tells you exactly which passenger in your car is unbuckled).
Best family-friendly features:
Comfortable seating for five
11.6-inch vertical touch screen in the center console
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
Roomy rear seats
Two USB ports in front; two optional in the rear.
Built-in WiFi hotspot connectivity
Power rear gate
Remote engine start lets you warm up or cool down your car from your smartphone
Safety features:
Standard all-wheel drive on all models
EyeSight with advanced safety keeps you a safe distance from the car in front of you; it also detects objects in front of you that you're likely to hit and reduces power to the engine to help minimize the force and impact of a collision
Blind spot detection system notifies you if it detects vehicles in your blind spots
Automatic pre-collision braking
Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology
Lane departure warning will notify you if you stray out of your lane
Subaru Starlink will alert an operator if your car is involved in a crash and get you roadside help at the push of a button
Front and rear camera views keep you from missing anything on the road in front or behind you
Standard rear seatbelt reminder will tell you which seat is unbuckled.
Rear occupant reminder will remind you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
My Subaru app lets you set speed limits and boundaries to alert you if your (teenage) driver is speeding or going somewhere they're not supposed to go
This relative newbie in the midsize SUV class has wowed critics for its "cavernous interior, long list of creature comforts and long-trip-worthy road manners," according to Cars.com. Consumer Reports also hailed it as "surprisingly agile handling for its size." In a nutshell, this beauty's got some of the same style and upscale features as its higher-end counterparts—with a price far below them.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for seven
Second-row captains chairs available, to make getting to the third row easier
Available panoramic sunroof
Second and third rows can be stowed flat for storage (or car camping!)
Apple Car Play/ Android Auto so you can easily play content from your phone
Five USB ports, two 12-volt outlets and a 115-volt household-style outlet keep everyone plugged in and entertained
Large second row and large door openings make it easier to get kiddos into those bulky rear-facing seats
Roomy third row makes seating easy, even when adults need to sit in the back
Safety features:
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning and lane-keeping assist are all standard.
Road sign recognition
Rear view camera
Available with a turbo-charged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive
The CarNet app allows you to remote start your engine, lock and unlock the doors, honk the horn and flash the lights—right from the app. It will also alert you when your vehicle has traveled outside of a preset "safe" zone (for when your kids are driving and you want to keep tabs on them)
The Intelligent Crash System will—in the event of an accident in which the airbags are deployed—turn off the fuel pump, unlock the doors and activate the hazard lights
Post collision Braking System that will slow the vehicle down after a collision, helping reduce the chance of any additional impacts
Named one of the Best Cars and Trucks for 2021 by Car & Driver magazine and Motor Trend's "Car of the Year" last year, the eight-passenger Kia Telluride has the tech to satisfy the kids and has the safety and reliability parents want. Plus, it's luxurious cabin earns rave reviews, with one C&D reviewer saying that "you get the experience of a luxury SUV without any pretense or badge-snob affectation."
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for up to eight
Available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
In-car intercom to talk to rear passengers
Available reclining dual captain's chairs that slide forward with the push of a button for easy access to the third row
Dual rear sunroofs
USB ports for all passengers plus available wireless charging
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to easily connect your music and apps
Remote climate feature that lets you use your phone to warm up or cool down your car before you get inside
Find My Car system helps you locate your car in a crowded parking lot
One-touch sliding and folding second and third-row seats
Safety features:
Blind spot view monitor shows a live feed of your right rear blind spots and stops you if you try to change lanes while an object is detected in the blind spot
Rear occupant alert system can tell if you left your car with someone in the back seat—and alerts you accordingly
Standard Safe Exit Assist helps you get off the freeway without worry
Head Up display gives you important driving information (speed and road turns) on the front dash so you don't have to look down at your console while driving
Smart cruise control keeps your car a safe distance from the car in front of you and stops your car if needed
Emergency braking and warning system will warn you if you're approaching a stopped object and will apply brakes if needed
Lane-keeping technology keeps you from straying out of your lane
With its elegant interior and long range of safety features, the Volvo XC90 has consistently ranked highly in Edmunds list of Best Family Cars. New for 2021, Volvo has added adaptive headlights, front parking sensors, and a smartphone charging pad which now comes standard. Plus, there's also an optional hybrid version of the car that has all the stellar features of the original with the added bonus of a 55 miles-per-gallon fuel economy with the hybrid engine that allows you to use electric power when you want to and gas-power when you need to.
Best family-friendly features:
Comfortable seating for six (or seven if the second row middle seat is installed)
Apple Carplay & Android Auto comes standard
Two full sets of LATCH car-seat connectors in the second row, as well as a tether anchor for the middle seat
Massage function available for front seats (available in the T8 Hybrid model only)
Four-zone climate control keeps you cool up front even when your tots want it toasty in the back
Hands-free power liftgate
In-car WiFi hotspot
Safety features:
Intellisafe Assist offers adaptive cruise control, pilot assist and distance alert (all of which will keep you a safe distance from the car in front of you and in the center of your lane)
Road sign recognition
Rear cross-traffic alert will notify you if traffic is crossing behind you as you back up
Drowsy driver notifications
Forward collision warning sends a warning if a forward collision is imminent and automatically applies the brakes if needed
Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Optional protective grill keeps the contents of your trunk from flying forward in an accident (and works great as a barrier for your traveling dog).
"Red Key" remote, which can be given to younger drivers (or valet drivers) to encourage responsible driving. When used, it won't let your car go above 75 mph and will emit a warning when the car goes over 30, 45, and 50 mph. Also, it can restrict the volume level so your kids can't blast the radio while driving
Integrated second row booster seat that can be hidden in the seatback when not in use
Optional hands-free park assist as well as surround-view parking camera system.
This hefty family hauler—which was named one of the best three-row SUVs of 2020 by Motor Trend, with Edmunds calling it "one of the most luxuriously trimmed vehicles in the class"—checks out at less than $50,000 but comes with upscale touches including heated (and ventilated) first and second-row seats, an available in-car intercom, and a slew of safety features. New for 2021, Hyundai introduces Calligraphy, the "most premium Palisade" available, with an extra-sleek design, lighting enhancements, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, and quilted leather seating and door surfaces.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for up to eight
Available in-car intercom lets you break up drive-time squabbles without raising your voice
Second-row captains chairs available, to make getting to the third row easier
Available dual sunroof
Available third-row power-folding seats
One-touch second-row access (another way to get into the back seat easily)
Apple Car Play/ Android Auto so you can easily play content from your phone
Second-row/ Optional third-row USB ports, plus wireless device charging in the front seat
Hands-free lift-gate for easy access to the trunk
Safety features:
Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
Smart cruise control automatically slows your car down to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you—and will even bring your car to a complete stop on its own if needed
Lane-keeping assist
Blind spot collision avoidance assist (on SEL and Limited models)
Available all-wheel drive
Driver attention warning sounds an audible tone or visual alert if it detects driver fatigue or inattention
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance lets you know if there is a car approaching from the left or right when you're backing up—and will apply the brakes automatically if needed
Rear occupant alert system will remind you to check the rear seats before exiting when you turn off the engine; additionally, overhead ultrasonic sensors will monitor the back seat and activate a honking horn and flashing lights—as well as send an alert to your smartphone—if any movement is detected
Safe exit assist won't let you open your car door if sensors detect a car approaching from the rear
Surround view monitor shows a top-down view of your SUV when you park so you can avoid curbs (and other cars)
For big families that need lots of space for stuff, pets or gear, Car & Driver magazine called the 2021 Yukon "hard to beat." Listed at the top of the magazine's SUV rankings, it's got three rows of seating plus a roomy trunk that'll easily fit strollers, bikes or your dog if that's what you're going for (especially if you go for the XL model). New for 2021: This year's version is said to be better equipped, have a roomier cabin and more cargo space than last year's model.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for seven
Second-row captains seats with Power-Assist fold and a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
Hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
A 10.1-inch screen in the front seat looks like an iPad (in other words, kids will love it)
Remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging seats in the ST and Platinum trims
In-car WiFi
Safety features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-Spot warning
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
If you like a rugged-looking car that's big enough to carry all the kids, dogs and gear your gang takes on the road, the Expedition has an impressive interior, loads of fun tech (massaging seats!) and four-wheel drive capabilities that make it easy to traverse snowy terrain. Edmunds rated it as its favorite large SUV for 2021, while Car & Driver called it a "workhorse for active families."
Best family-friendly features:
Huge interior cargo space, especially in the MAX version (which is a foot longer than the standard model).
Seating for up to 8
Optional second-row captains seats with a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold second and third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
Hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; rear seat entertainment systems available on the Limited, King Ranch and Platinum trims.
Remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging front seats available in higher trims
In-car WiFi
Safety features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-Spot warning
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
Sure, there's no denying it's a "Mom car," but there's a reason the Honda Odyssey has won Kelley Blue Books "Minivan Best Buy" award three years in a row, with Forbes calling it "still the best family car you can buy": It's got everything a parent needs to haul around a small tribe of children. If the interior vacuum cleaner doesn't sell you (seriously, so necessary), here are a few more reasons to check it out.
Best family-friendly features:
Seats up to eight, with LATCH accommodations for up to five car seats (it's also the only minivan to earn an IIHS top rating for ease of use of its LATCH child seat attachment hardware)
Built-in vacuum helps keep all those crumbs away
Interior camera helps parents keep an eye on the back seats, even in the dark
DVD player and folding 10-inch screen for movies and games
"Cabin Talk" feature helps the driver talk to the rear passengers through the rear speakers and the DVD headphones
Split-folding third row offers room for strollers (even unfolded ones) and offers hefty storage space when seats aren't folded into the floor
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
Optional cellular plan that'll allow you to stream videos directly to your car
In-car WiFi supports 4G LTE wireless streaming
Wireless charging pad in front seat as well as front and rear USB ports
Sun shades for second and third row passengers
Tri-zone climate control
Hands-free power tailgate lets you open the trunk by kicking your foot under the rear bumper
Safety features:
Eight standard airbags, including knee airbags for the front seats and side-impact curtain protection for all three rows
All trims include Honda Sensing (which features Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection; Forward Collision Warning; Road Departure Mitigation, incorporating Lane Departure Warning; Lane Keeping Assist System; traffic sign recognition; and Active cruise control with a forward-collision warning system)
Automatic emergency braking applies the brakes when the car detects that a frontal collision is unavoidable
Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and Road Departure Mitigation all help keep you from veering off the road
Blind spot information system will alert you if vehicles are detected in your blind spots when you're changing lanes
Multi-angle rearview camera gives you extra eyes when you're backing up
Snow Mode recalibrates the car's traction system to give you more control in winter weather
Rear seat occupant reminder notifies you to check the back seats before you get out
The top-rated minivan by Consumer Reports, the 2021 Toyota Sienna has a slew of tech and safety features that make it a perfect people mover—and now all Siennas come standard with a gasoline-electric hybrid engine to save you a little on gas money. Plus, the 2021 debuts a redesigned look, and while the Sienna still looks like a Mom Car, it's got a slightly sportier look than in years past.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for eight
Dual Blue Ray disc entertainment center featuring a 16.4 inch split-screen capable overhead display for kids to watch movies—plus two wireless headphones so those movies are for their ears only;
ISD and HDMI inputs plus two AC power outlets
Dual moonroofs give everyone in the car a view of the sky
Available dual power sliding doors that can be activated from the car's remote
Smart Key system lets you open the car doors by touching the handle and start the car with the push of a button (as long as the key is in your pocket or nearby)
Split & Stow third-row seat makes for plenty of available cargo space by folding the third-row seat into the floor
Auto access seat helps people with disabilities easily get in and out of the car by rotating the second-row seat outward and lowering it to nearly ground level
Driver Easy Speak System projects your voice to the back row, so your kids will hear you talking to them (most of the time, anyway)
Available WiFi connectivity through Verizon allows up to five users to connect to the car at one time (monthly charges apply)
Five USB ports to keep all those devices powered
With standard hybrid powertrain, you get up 36 mpg, a rare feat for a minivan
Sliding second-row seats can help third-row passengers get a little more legroom
Lower floor makes it easier for kids (and grandparents) to climb aboard
Safety features:
Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection will stop your vehicle if needed
Brake assist plus Smart stop technology
Dynamic radar cruise control keeps you at a safe distance from other cars
Available all-wheel drive (unusual for a minivan)
Blind spot detection system alerts you if a car or object is in your blind spot
Read cross traffic alert provides audible and visual alerts if there's something behind you or approaching your car when you're backing up
Lane departure alert with steering assist will detect if you're straying from your lane and help you by making "corrective steering inputs" to keep you in your lane
Automatic high beams activate high beams when it is night and the in-vehicle camera doesn't detect any cars in front of you
Backup camera plus Birds Eye View panoramic camera lets you see everything that's around you
Move over Instant Pot, the air fryer is the newest appliance on the block! Known for giving that fried food texture without all the excess oil and fat, air fryer ovens are a great option for staying cool this summer while in the kitchen. From space-saving options to family-sized cookers, we’ve rounded up the best options for starting your air fryer journey. Keep scrolling to find the perfect option for your family.
The Budget Fryer
Chefman TurboFry 2
This customer fave is the perfect option for trying out air frying for the first time, or for small spaces. It won't take up tons of room, and is great for the office, an RV or even a dorm room! People love the two-quart BPA-free, non-stick, removable and dishwasher-safe basket which makes for super easy cleaning. This fryer comes with manual temperature controls and a 30-minute integrated timer, cool-touch exterior and auto shut-off feature.
If you're looking for a lightly larger fryer, Secura's 3.4-quart basket is great for a main entree or batch of snacks. It comes with a 60-minute cooking timer with auto-shut, heating and power indicator lights and variable temperature control that ranges from 180° to 400°F.
Trying to avoid another appliance in the kitchen? Instant Pot has your back. The Air Fryer Lid currently works with the six-quart cooker and is compatible with all stainless steel inner pots. It offers one-touch preset cooking programs, overheat protection, automatic shutoff and comes with accessories! You'll get a multi-level air fryer basket plus a protective pad.
This workhorse is a customer fave and with good reason. The four-quart ceramic basket is nonstick and dishwasher safe, as well as the multi-layer rack and crisper plate. Fit up to two pounds of french fries and cook creatively with the temperature range that goes from 105 to 400 degrees. Did we also mention you can use the Ninja to dehydrate your own chips, snacks and fruits?
This family-sized fryer may take up a decent amount of counter space, but it's great for larger cooking. The six-quart basket allows for larger portions, comes with an auto shut off feature and can heat up to 400 degrees. We love that you can choose from red, white, black and teal so this device can be a mainstay in your kitchen.
This number one best-selling air fryer can be controlled via WiFi! Tech-savvy families will love the large 5.8-quart basket that can be controlled using an app, or even your Alexa-enabled device. The dishwasher safe basket can fit food up to an entire rotisserie chicken, and the appliance even comes with a recipe book filled with 100 ideas.
This 9-in-1 fryer is about to change your kitchen. The 360 oven boasts five different heating elements that can toast, bake, air fry and even cook a spinning rotisserie chicken! It comes with an LCD digital menu, 12 different cooking functions, as well as a pizza rack, rotisserie spit, drip tray, crisper tray and a baking pan.
Ninja Foodi Digital Fry, Convection Oven, Toaster, Air Fryer
The Ninja Foodi does it all: dehydrate, toast, warm, air fry, bake and air roast! The large size allows for cooking a 13-inch pizza, six chicken breasts or nine pieces of toast at a time! Next to cooking, the best part about this appliance is the ability to turn on its side to take up 50% less space when storing it!
Kids are spending more time at home now than ever before. Some are starting new business ventures, while others are perfecting their banana bread making skills or exploring the outdoors with their pod buddies. In-between the new hobbies and learned skills, 2020 has found kids completing chores, saving money and giving back to their community, according to Greenlight. Read on to discover the details of their just-released 2020 Year in Review, which reveals how many chores were actually completed this past year, the average allowance by age and the stores kids spent the most money at. The results are surprising.
Greenlight’s infographic below highlights some of their 2020 findings. We pulled out some of the most interesting highlights:
• In 2020, Greenlight saw 8.7 million chores completed, which is almost 5 million more chores completed than last year. Kids did 20% more chores each month in 2020, compared to 2019.
• The top three chores were: cleaning the bedroom, taking care of the pet and washing the dishes.
• The most unique chore? Putting on deodorant.
• The average allowance per age:
Ages 5-10: $9.20
Ages 11-14: $12.10
Ages 15-18: $16.30
Ages 19-22: $21.50
• Greenlight kids saved $51.5 million. They saved for things like a first car, holiday gifts and shoes.
• Donations increased 78% from March to April, with No Kid Hungry being the top charity.
• Greenlight kids spent $458 million on Doordash alone. In 2019, Walmart was the most popular store for Greenlight kids.
Idina Menzel, the Broadway star and voice of Elsa in Frozen and Frozen II, along with SB Projects, has just launched a brand-new kids series on YouTube called Idina’s Treehouse, and she films it in her son’s real treehouse! She reads books like The Day the Crayons Quit, chats with friends like Farmer Scott and Mrs. Roper, talks about words of the day with Aunt Cara and sings in that famous Elsa voice that’ll have the whole family wanting to listen.
Kids need meaningful connections even more these days, and parents need a break. Menzel says, “Just something I started working on during quarantine. Hope you all like it. In search of a little peace and quiet during the lockdown and stressful homeschooling I took refuge in my son Walker’s treehouse. Started talking and singing to myself. Delirium? Stir crazy? Mother gone mad? I offer up myself for your children’s amusement. Love you all. Hope you enjoy. Xoxo”
