Written by Jennifer Hughes
Orlando just got waaaaaayyy cooler with an independent bookstore for kids. Beanbag chairs, a mini table set, games and easy-to-reach books on tot-accessible bookcases encourage little ones to engage in reading. Adventure in Story Time is offered at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m, Tuesday through Saturday. Perfect outing for the kids during the long summer break!
1309 Edgewater Dr., Orlando | 407-650-8004 www.urbanthinkorlando.com
Their newest facility in Winter Garden is ahead of the curve in interactive and multi-sensory learning programs for kids 3 - 10. The “play zone” consists of an oversized tree and a walking bridge. The walls come alive with imaginative murals. The kids won’t even notice that Cranium Clubhouse is using top-notch curriculum to help them learn.
4068 Winter Garden Vineland Rd., Winter Garden | 407-294-6950 www.thegreatestkids.com
Wekiva Island is perfect for a fun-filled summer day on the water. What used to be called the Wekiva Marina is under new ownership and has been completely redone to create an environmentally- responsible oasis with a bar, nice bathrooms, food on the grill, canoe rentals, riverside deck with green Adirondak chairs and private cabanas.
1014 Miami Springs Rd., Longwood | 407-862-1500 www.wekivaisland.com
This is one of the sweetest storefronts we have ever seen. Located in Ivanhoe Village, they offer adorably eclectic handmade items like skirts, purses, jewelry, kids’ t-shirts and baby onesises. There is something for everyone. All items have been handmade, some even by shop owner Heather, herself. Local couture, we love it!
1817 N. Orange Ave., Orlando | 407-898-2255 www.heatherhandmade.com
Shopping for the tiny princess in your life? This online store is owned and operated by a local mom, and carries items such as tutus, dresses, accessories and swimwear, all of which are either handmade or hand-embellished and available for infants, toddlers and girls. Jordan Grace will also create custom pieces for your princess. Perfect if you like original girly-girl items.
Spot Me ID is a kid safety program that offers peace of mind for you in crowded public places. Offering items like animated ID bracelets, temporary tattoos and ID lanyards where you can write important information, in the event your child wanders away and gets lost. This idea was created by local parents who had a scare with their own child.
52 Riley Rd., Suite #181, Celebration | 407-566-9871 www.spotmeid.com
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