It’s hard to believe BACK TO SCHOOL is around the corner! In the spirit of always keeping you in the know, did you know that backpacks – when not worn properly, can cause short- or long-term problems in kids’ muscles, joints and—well—back? So what’s the right way to wear and carry a backpack? And what else should you know so we can keep our kiddos in good physical health? Dr. Phil Mack, orthopedic surgeon with Connecticut Children’s, has answers.

Not sure where to start with Back to School shopping? Check out the 6 Pieces to Upgrade Your Child’s School Wardrobe from @hatley (link in bio). This classic, sustainable, family-owned brand has committed to a more mature look for their kids line, with prints that will satisfy even the most discerning pre-teen girl (think: subtle embroidery and whimsical ruffles) and boys up to 8 years old (like solid shorts and sweatshirts with cool fossil graphics that are more cool than cute). As always, Hatley pieces are made to last (aka: hand-me-down quality!). Ready to order? Go to Hatley.com and use code LOCALMOMS15 for 15% off and free shipping (US only, expires 9/30/22)!

Naturino Kids Shoes & More is OPENING (next to Chase bank on Post Road) on August 15th! Come do your kids back to school shoe shopping!

This summer we’re grilling non-stop. It’s a no-brainer – enjoy the outdoors with your family while skipping the hot kitchen and cleanup. This recipe from Jo Keohane, the mom of three and recipe developer behind The Family Food Kitchen, is perfect for meal prep. Grill up these versatile, juicy thighs and use them all week long in salads, sandwiches and more!

When Elizabeth Rietz’s daughter was eight, she was an “early bloomer.” Like many preteens, she wasn’t quite ready for a bra, but started wearing a second layer under her shirts to feel more comfortable. When Elizabeth scoured stores to find a next step solution—a comfy cami with a shelf bra—she wasn’t impressed with the options. “That became my first idea: to create a super soft, cami with a shelf bra to add more coverage and help girls get used to wearing a bra,” shares Elizabeth. Fast forward a few years later, and @bleuetgirl was born, a line of first bras that are comfortable for all children, even those with clothing sensitivities. We spoke to Elizabeth about her age-appropriate, size inclusive line, what separates it from other training bras, and more. Head to the link in our bio for the full interview, and from July 27-August 17, go to Bleuetgirl.com and receive a 20% discount.

Learn to row at Maritime Rowing Club! The Fall Under 14 program at Maritime Rowing Club helps rowers improve in all aspects of rowing including fitness, strength, flexibility, mental toughness, and discipline. Using facilities both on and off the water, MRC works to develop proper rowing technique, good boat handling skills, and water safety.

Can you believe summer is coming to an end? With your children going back to school and the fall sports season beginning, there is a lot that you can do to help them be prepared. Watching your children succeed in school and on the field playing their favorite sport, as they smile with their best friends is truly one of the most joyous feelings. Hear from Coastal Orthopedics how to best prepare your kids for the fall and upcoming season!

Did COVID cause a rise in divorces? The answer is: It is hard to define It. Carole Orland of Broder, Orland, Murray & DeMattie share some thoughts on the way COVID has impacted families these last two years..

Mom of two teenagers, Shannon and her family moved to Westport from Texas five years ago, and though she loves Westport, she will admit she misses the food! After more than a decade building marketing and branding strategies for brands such as Cole Haan and Home Depot, she decided she wanted to stop managing the creative process and to start creating something! She quit her job and went to art school – and never looked back! She has always loved invitations and stationary, so Shannon launched Yozo Studio, designing custom letterpress cards, and loves what she does. Over time, her work has expanded into corporate event planning, custom birthday parties, and more! She is a creator at heart and the ideas keep coming! Shannon loves to travel (her bucket list remains seeing the Northern lights), eating tacos, and sometimes squeezing in a quick nap! For anyone looking for something really special, Shannon has you covered!