Nola Family March 2026

March 2026

nola family MARCH 2026 Vacationing For YOUR Family Parent Fearlessly

BIG TRIPS, Little Kids

Beyond the College Applications

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CONT ENT S March 2026

features

WHAT NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT COLLEGE PLANNING A practical guide to the often-overlooked details that are beyond applications, test scores, and acceptance letters. 14 LETTING GO WITHOUT CHECKING OUT Exploring the balance between giving space while still supporting your child’s independence as they begin college. 16 EIGHT VACATION THEMES THAT GO BEYOND THE BEACH Discover different ways you can voyage this summer that work for your family’s needs and interests. 18 20 PLACES TO TRAVEL IN THE US AS A FAMILY Check out the best destinations where families can connect and explore together.

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in each issue

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THE MAMA FILES

FROM THE BOOKSHELF

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SPOTLIGHT

MOM ABOUT TOWN THINGS TO DO THINGS WE LOVE

SNAPSHOTS

what’s on the web

PHOTO BY AUDUBON INSTITUTE

PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

The Wildlife Edit: What’s on the Menu? Go behind the scenes with your favorite species at Audubon Nature Institute. Sun’s Out, Phones Down: Teen-Friendly Ways to Get Outside Easy, free, and fun—activities they will love. Easter Bunny Sightings Kids Will Love Egg hunts, photo ops, & sweet treats—yes, please! Spring Break Without Breaking the Bank No vacation, no worries with these budget- friendly ideas.

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THE Mama

FILES

nola family

MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN Production Manager KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers MORGAN ESPENAN Digital Content Coordinator SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager SABRINA SMITH BREE WAY Client Success Specialist JILLIAN NORMAN Production Intern ADVERTISING/MARKETING ASHLEY ZANDERS Sales Operations CRYSTAL BARRETT

The Season of Letting Go The Season of Letting Go

research shows the teenage brain isn’t fully developed until the mid-to-late twenties (around age 25 on average). So expecting 15-, 16-, or 17-year-olds to make life-altering decisions without consistent parental involvement feels… ambitious. Needless to say, I’ve learned a few things I hope can help other parents navigate this season. First: Get access to your child’s email and Common App account. Better yet, create a new, professional email address with their name in it. Use the same email and password across platforms (write it down somewhere safe). This has been a lifesaver. I can track deadlines, spot scholarship opportunities, and gently remind her before the clock runs out. And speaking of scholarships—apply for all of them. You truly can’t apply for too many. The worst that happens? You don’t get them all. The best? You do. My one regret? Not doing more college tours. Maybe we’ll still squeeze a few in. As much as I want her to stay close to home (where I can “accidentally” drop off groceries), there’s a big world out there, and I want her to explore it. I want her to become the independent, fierce young woman she’s already becoming. My mini-me—just a little smarter, a little sassier, with bigger goals…and the same big heart that loves big. And maybe that means I didn’t do such a bad job after all.

It’s hard to believe I’m about to let my oldest spread her wings and leave the nest.

Is she ready? My honest answer is no.

Do I feel like she’s been taught everything she needs to survive on her own? Again…no. Somewhere around the transition to high school, I look back and wonder if I started to miss the mark. I always wanted to be a great mother—but also someone she would still talk to. Somewhere along the way, I may have leaned a little too far into “friend” and not enough into “push her harder.” That balance is tricky, and no one hands you a manual when they hand you a newborn.

ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives

Is she a bad kid? Absolutely not.

She has the biggest heart. She’s compassionate. She loves children. She stands up to bullies and fiercely protects the people she cares about. Sometimes she loves too much, trusts too easily, and gives her heart away when it isn’t always deserved. As we close out her high school years and step into the college chapter, it’s bittersweet—heavy on the sweet, if I’m being honest. It’s been a learning experience for both of us. I’m incredibly grateful her school provides a college counselor to guide students through the process. My only frustration? Parents are largely cut out. We receive the same reminder emails the students do, but unless you’re having regular conversations at home, things get missed. I understand the intention—they want these kids to grow into independent adults. But

ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director of Finance ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator

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Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

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You good?

Reach out to a friend about their mental health. Find more ways to help at SeizeTheAwkward.org

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Get your family travel-ready with these reading recommendations from the New Orleans Public Library all about journeys, adventures, and vacations.

from the bookshelf

TEEN: Three girls. One beach vacation. Beach Cute by Beth Reekles follows three teen girls—Luna, Rory, and Jodie. They don’t know it yet, but the three strangers have one thing in common: They are on their way to the same resort. As their lives collide under the sun, will they have the summer they’ll never forget? In Get Real, Chloe Torres , three estranged best friends take a road trip to see their favorite band, and along the way, things get messy. This sizzling summer adventure from YA star Crystal Maldonado is a hilarious and heartfelt romcom with a little something for everyone. Travel-hungry fantasy fiends will fall in love with Costumes for Time Travelers by A. R. Capetta. The story is set in a town called Pocket—the place time travelers first reach after they stumble away from their home-time. To Calisto, Pocket is home. For Fawkes, traveling is life. When he floats into Pocket, Calisto meets him for the first time, though Fawkes has seen Calisto—in glimpses of what hasn’t happened yet. He’s also seen the villains chasing them both. Now Calisto and Fawkes must rush through time to save Pocket, and travelers, from being erased.

CHILDREN: Never Take Your Rhino on a Plane by K. E. Lewis & Isabel Roxas is a cautionary tale about the daredevil stunts and embarrassing antics you will face when traveling with your pet rhinoceros. From the security line to the luggage carousel, there is no hope for a relaxing trip or in-flight movie in this picture book. In Lone Wolf on Vacation by Kiah Thomas & K-Fai Steele , the titular Wolf is excited for a peaceful, refreshing solo vacation. But from a sing-along bus ride to a broken elevator to a hotel room snafu, Wolf can’t seem to catch a break. And worst of all, some familiar old characters have somehow chosen the same dream destination. The Sleeper Train by Mick Jackson & Baljinder Kaur captures the magic of family travel while introducing children to a mode of transportation rarely used in the United States. Just as it’s starting to get dark, a child and her family board the sleeper train, where they’ll travel through the night and reach their destination in the morning. MIDDLE GRADE: A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation by Pablo Cartaya follows 13-year-old Cuban American Gonzalo as he joins his estranged grandfather on a road trip to promote his grandfather’s fantasy book series. Embark on a journey like no other with Atlas of Mythical Journeys: Discover Heroic Quests, Daring Voyages and Epic Adventures by Emily Hawkins & Iryna Dobrovetska . Blending myth, history, fact, and fantasy, this treasury brings together a huge range of traditional stories that are sure to quench your thirst for adventure.

In Debbie Fong’s Next Stop, readers meet Pia, a soft-spoken middle schooler, as she embarks on a bus tour that changes her life.

Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian for the New Orleans Public Library’s collections and acquisitions department. Marie Simoneaux is the media and communications coordinator for the New Orleans Public Library.

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spotlight

BY MADELINE PISTORIUS HOW LOUISIANA READS! IS HELPING FAMILIES BUILD STRONGER READERS

L iteracy is one of the most vital skills in childhood development. Yet in Louisiana, many young readers still struggle to reach grade-level reading proficiency—a challenge both educators and families work hard to overcome. Enter Louisiana Reads!, a family-centered initiative from the Center for Literacy and Learning that helps families turn reading into a shared journey at home. The Center for Literacy and Learning, a nonprofit based in New Orleans, started as a literacy coaching program providing professional development for teachers, grounded in research and evidence- based practices. Recently, the center introduced the Louisiana Reads! initiative, shifting its focus to give parents these opportunities for the first time. “Our goal was to give children access to books, build those at-home libraries, and provide resources for families,” says Monique Jolla, Director of Family and Community Initiatives. Parents receive the tools, books, and confidence to combine classroom learning with natural family moments, encouraging lifelong reading habits.

Our program is built on all of those things that we know are missing pieces—and for parents to have those ‘aha moments,’” she says.

moving, transporting materials and Jolla’s team throughout Louisiana.

Workshops include book distributions, presentations on the skill sets and standards children need at each stage of development, and interactive stations where parents learn strategies they can use at home. The program serves children from birth through 12th grade. Post-workshop surveys gather follow- up responses. “We get feedback not just from parents, but from the teachers, schools, and organizations that we service, too,” she explains. Representation and access remain central to the initiative, especially in the books distributed. “Black and brown characters, positive affirmations, girl power, history— those are some of the themes our books focus on,” says Jolla. After each event, a child leaves with a book, growing their personal library. “Having the children come to the table and make a decision on a book to take home—those moments are organically made,” she says. The Lightbulb, a text messaging system, sends literacy tips tailored to specific grade levels along with corresponding activities. The mobile app features a parent portal with self-help resources and recorded read-aloud story times. “Teachers may be the only ones to see a disconnect. Parents sometimes don’t understand what a skilled reader looks like.

THE DIFFERENCE AT HOME

In the past year, literacy scores have risen across Louisiana. “We contribute a lot of that success to the work that we do here at the Center, because not only are some of our schools involved in Louisiana Reads!, we also have schools that are a part of our other programs,” says Jolla. To Jolla, the power of bonding and talking with one’s child is something she wishes every Louisiana family understood. “It’s the simple form of language—the engagement that happens in the home. The bonding, organic times where the parents see their child make connections beyond just reading.” Jolla explains that parents are their child’s first educator. Children are always watching and absorbing what they see. Empowering parents with the understanding is exactly why Jolla—and the Center—does this work. And in a state working to turn the page on literacy challenges, Louisiana Reads! help families reach the next chapter together. For more information about The Center for Literacy and Learning and Louisiana Reads!, visit mycll.org.

INSIDE THE INITIATIVE

The program is divided into several components: workshops, book distributions, a texting service, and a mobile app. It operates through partnerships with organizations and schools across the state. A Louisiana Reads! van keeps the initiative

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mom about town

JENN FAURIE

BY MADELINE PISTORIUS

J enn Faurie is a hands-on mom always on the move, juggling packed sports schedules for her daughters Leah and Logan while fitting photography sessions between school drop-off and pick-up. From babies and proposals to family portraits, she captures life’s sweetest moments with heart and intention. Jenn launched her photography business in honor of her late brother, a young photographer whose legacy continues through her work. When she’s not behind the camera or on the go, Jenn makes space for prayer and family time, often outdoors hiking, picnicking, and most importantly, enjoying time together. WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? JENN: I’ll bring the kids to school and then come home, usually giving myself a little bit of time between when I start sessions, like an hour break between each session. I give myself time, and I edit. I try to do two sessions in a day while they’re at school. On Wednesdays and Fridays, I go to their school’s mass—I always make sure I go to that. After I pick them up from school, we run around doing all of our activities. Most of the time, we’re eating dinner on the go. I’ve definitely learned how to multitask, and my kids have learned how to do quick outfit changes. HOW DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO START A PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS? JENN: I didn’t go to school for photography or ever imagined being a photographer. I actually went to school and graduated with a major in natural science and a minor in social science. During COVID, I quit my full- time job and decided to try to be a stay-at- home mom, but I essentially failed because I just couldn’t stay still long. My brother had passed away when he was 19, and I decided to start using his camera. He was a photographer, and I used his camera while

Husband: Larry Children: Leah, 9; Logan, 7 Occupation: Photographer & owner of Forever Faurie Hobbies: Being outdoors with my family and bringing my kids to all of their sporting events! newborns and taking pictures of new life, knowing that another life has passed. Random things will happen. Once, a butterfly landed on my hand when I was editing. Or, I am taking pictures and suddenly there’s a beautiful rainbow. Or a cardinal flies by. I always see signs, and it is reassuring because I feel like I’m continuing this legacy for him.

I was home with the kids. I began thinking that maybe I could do this. I started taking pictures of my kids and my friends’ kids, and my friends kept saying, “Why don’t you start your own business?” So, I did courses online for photography and taught myself along the way, and my husband knows a lot about cameras, too. WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR BUSINESS? JENN: I always feel like my brother is with me at times, like when I am photographing

WHAT ARE SOME JOYS OF MOTHERHOOD?

JENN: The little moments when I see them dress like me, or put one of the cameras on

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WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE ABOUT CAPTURING MEMORIES YOU’D GIVE TO OTHER PARENTS? JENN: At the end of the day, a picture could be all that you have left. If your kid has a little-bitty piece of hair in front of his face, it’s not a big deal, and not worth not using a picture. From experience, that photo may be all you have. I was pregnant with my second daughter when my brother passed. All she knows of my brother is pictures. I try to reiterate that in my kids’ lives and other families as well. That this is meant to be fun. Relax, take a breath, have fun, and be silly.

to Yosemite and went hiking. My girls love hiking, and they love nature. They just love being outside all together. We live not far from the levee, and sometimes go bike riding or walk along the levee. We also do tons of picnicking. They just love to be outside and to play. WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT THE STAGE YOUR DAUGHTERS ARE IN RIGHT NOW? JENN: They’re at the stage where they still need me, but don’t need me for little things. They need me to help them study and pick out their outfits, or make sure their conditioner is out of their hair. I love seeing them become little adults, because they’ll hold big conversations with people and talk about their feelings. It’s just amazing seeing them become these little people now. They were little babies and now they’re grown ups. My oldest made her First Communion last year and just seeing her do that was amazing, watching her be so grown. WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU ARE EXCITED ABOUT? JENN: I’m excited to watch my kids grow and have big life events, and to watch my business grow and maybe, eventually, be able to pass it down to them. That’s my biggest goal—to pass it down to my kids.

at a shoot and walk around pretending to be me, or swaddling babydolls and seeing them act like I have, and even hearing them playing and saying something like, “Oh, I have a session later!” It’s little moments like that where I know they see me because they’re always watching and they always hear. You are what they view they should grow up to be. As a mother, you’re their leader, their role model. WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR CHILDREN LEARN FROM WATCHING YOU BUILD AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS? JENN: They see all sides of it. They see me at my highest points, when I’m doing fun things—taking pictures, setting up, and making kids laugh. They also see the hard parts, when I’ve done 25 minis in one day and then have to put them on the computer and go through each picture. They’ve seen me pull all nighters, because I’m doing this by myself. So, they see both ends, and it teaches them that you have to be responsible in order to succeed.

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

My “Mom Superpower” is... handling my kids’ crazy schedules! Something that lifts my mood… my daughters’ smiling faces and hearing them say thank you. Comfort food… any kind of caffeine or mom fuel I can get.

WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO FAMILY ACTIVITY?

JENN: We are very family oriented, so we’ll do all of the Mardi Gras parades and events in New Orleans. We go to St. Francisville with our family twice a year. We recently went

Favorite way to unwind… praying, reading, and some quiet time alone.

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BY AMANDA MILLER What No One Tells You About College Planning Out:

W hen people hear “applying to college,” they may think that it’s simply filling out some information about the student-to-be, writing a college essay (if even required), and clicking submit. In reality, it is much different. There are several unspoken steps that can cause plenty of stress, confusion, and forgetfulness. Luckily, we’re here to help. We have uncovered those hidden steps and stressors and are here to help make college planning easier to manage. ORGANIZED EMAILS Creating a “professional” email is important. While CoolKid101@hotmail.com was super cool as a kiddo and even better as a junk email address as a young adult, it’s not going to look great when keeping up with college applications and correspondence. College-bound students are encouraged to create a new email, preferably one that is some variation of their name (that will be hard, we know). With the new email, it can be used to organize correspondence with each college. Many students will be applying to more than one college, so those color-coded tags and folders that Gmail provides will be extremely helpful. As a note, parents, we recommend having access to the email just to help make sure application confirmations, financial aid notices, scholarship deadlines, and

transparency without hovering over the student-to-be.

process along faster, and reduce stress when colleges request certain information.

UNEXPECTED COSTS These costs can be especially unexpected. Transcript requests, application fees, and any immunization records that have to be mailed can all add up quickly. Knowing about these expenses ahead of time helps families budget realistically, prevent delays when payments are required, and reduce frustration when documentation is needed. High school counseling offices can provide a clear breakdown of transcript and record fees, while college admissions websites often list application costs upfront. Families can also explore dual enrollment or college- level courses while still in high school, which can save money and, in some cases, allow students to test out of certain college classes. Other smaller but important costs include sending ACT or SAT scores to colleges, joining honor societies such as the National Society of High School Scholars, and graduation-related items like caps, gowns, tassels, and honor cords.

Where families can get documents: • Immunization records: Pediatrician’s office or state health department • Transcripts: High school counseling office • Test scores: College Board (SAT/AP) and MyACT

• Birth certificate: State vital records office Social Security card: Social Security Administration

COLLEGE ESSAYS College essays aren’t just writing another school paper. They’re personal, reflective, and time-consuming. We recommend starting the writing process early. This will help give time for the student-to-be to really brainstorm what they want to express, simmer on it post-writing for a few days without feeling rushed to submit, and even share the essay with another person for feedback. This is especially great for when the prompts change for each college. Reviewing Common App essay prompts and college admissions guidance early can help students better understand what schools are looking for. Starting early, or pre-writing at the very least, gives parents a welcome reprieve from the added stress when their child seeks out help because they “don’t know what to write about.”

NEEDED DOCUMENTATION Speaking of documentation, having documents on hand will save plenty of time and prevent headaches.

Immunization records, transcripts, test scores, application fees, driver’s licenses, and Social Security numbers are often the most requested documents to have during the process. Compiling them will help avoid scrambling before deadlines, move the

14 MARCH 2026 | NOLAFAMILY.COM future test reminders aren’t going unnoticed.It’s also great for added

ACT VS. SAT

These tests can send people into a tailspin at times, but they’re oftentimes a major component of the college application process. Utilizing apps such as College Board and MyACT (more on that in a moment) helps choose the right test for the student, avoid duplicate or unnecessary registrations, track scores, and even send them directly. If possible, signing up for a tutoring class can help improve scores, and students can take the ACT multiple times. Be aware though that each attempt comes with a fee. TEAMWORK There are a lot of websites to log in to for applications, including that Gmail account we already advised to create. However, teaming up to navigate through all the chaos is what will make the process run smoothly. That means parents teaming up with their kiddos! When parents understand what their child is experiencing, conversations will shift from “Did you do this yet?” to “What’s next on the list?” It’s collaborative instead of confrontational, which makes this already stressful process a lot easier. High school counselors and college admissions offices can also serve as helpful partners throughout the process. Keeping a shared calendar of testing dates, application deadlines, and financial aid due dates can help everyone stay on the same page. HELPFUL APPS If this has taught anyone anything, it’s that there are a lot of pieces to this college planning puzzle. There are multiple systems to keep up with, and each one serves a different purpose. Luckily, there’s an app (several, actually) that will help bring everything together and keep it simple. • Common App: Apply to hundreds of colleges easily. Simply fill out the application once and send directly to multiple schools. • College Board: Organization is the name of the game with this app. Keep up with the SAT, AP exams, financial aid profiles, and scholarship information. There are even college search tools. • MyACT: Registration for the ACT is available through this app, and students can view scores, send scores to colleges, and manage test dates. • Scholarships.com: Students can create a profile and get matched with scholarships based on grades, interests, backgrounds, etc. College prep isn’t just about getting into college; it’s also about reducing stress, building independence, and teaching life organization skills.

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Letting Go Without Checking Out:

BY AMELIA ROESSLER

How Parenting Shifts During the College Years

BY AMELIA ROESSLER

S ending a child off to college can be one of the most emotional milestones in parenting. As time flies, the days of changing diapers, helping with homework, dropping them off at school activities, and packing lunches fade into the rearview mirror. It’s time for them to go to college. As parents, you try to remain confident that the foundation you have built over the past 18 years will be able to accompany your child across the miles and throughout the years. But how do you navigate the transition as a parent? How do you navigate independence and set boundaries that benefit both you and your child?

necessarily have to put as much emphasis on their child anymore, and are then faced with their emotions that have been placed to the side,” she says.

those emotions come with increased sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and role confusion.

“Role confusion is a normal, but uncomfortable, part of development that comes when parenting is no longer the main focus of an adult’s life. It can take some time to adjust to reducing emphasis on parenting duties and instead focusing on things that bring fulfillment to parents,” says Burton. She also explains that no emotion is wrong or inherently bad, and she prefers to use “favorable” or “unfavorable” to describe emotions rather than positive or negative. This stage can feel harder than parents expect, even with a successful transition. Burton says parents tend to focus on their child’s experience and emotions, and forget that they also will experience change. “Parents help their children logistically prepare for college, help process the mixed emotions upcoming college students have, and even put their own experience to the side to support their child. When there is a successful transition, the parent doesn’t

SETTING BOUNDARIES

An important first step for parents setting new boundaries is to have open and honest conversations between parent(s) and children, Burton explains. Exploring what exactly the child wants and/or needs while being curious, but also realistic, as to what you as a parent can provide during this time helps set groundwork and expectations. Helpful topics of discussion can include how often visits can occur (that goes both ways for parents visiting college and students coming home), how involved parents can be in academics and school life, and expectations around communication. Most importantly, Burton says it’s important to remain flexible. “We often don’t know what life will look like until we are living it, and boundaries that make sense on the front end might not be realistic when at college.

MIXED EMOTIONS

Marti Burton, MA, ALC, NCC, EMDR-T, and therapist at Empower Counseling & Coaching, says she sees a mix of emotions from parents when a child leaves for college. Many times she will see pride, fulfillment, and excitement at a child getting into college, receiving scholarships, or just experiencing something new. But Burton says sometimes

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Continuous communication around changes in boundaries and expectations can help make this process smooth.” One common boundary mistake Burton sees well-intended parents make is not listening to their child’s needs. An example can be when a parent either visits too often or expects their child to come home more than the child wants or needs. To reduce frustration and set some expectations, seek open communication and feedback between parents and children. Remember, college is a great opportunity for children to learn independence and continue to grow into who they are as a person.

recognize that their child will be ok, she explains.

Burton says another piece of advice is to have parents remember that your own college experience might not be the same as your child’s. She often hears parents comment that college was the best time of their lives, so why is their child struggling? According to Burton, when children hear this, they can internalize that they are wrong for struggling or not liking college. To help, lean in with curiosity to a child’s experience, instead of putting an experience on their child.

The discomfort that can come with these transitions do not last forever. Burton’s one piece of reassurance to offer parents navigating this stage is that it is temporary. “I like to compare it to the newborn stage, where the sleepless nights, crying, and overall transition to parenthood feels endless. Then one day, sleep starts coming more naturally, the crying seems to slow down, and you feel like you have the hang of caring for a child.” Colleges often have resources not only for students, but for parents making this transition as well. Some colleges may contain versions of “parent corners” on their websites that contain information about what is happening at the school and how they can support their child in the transition. Every parent has their own experience when it comes to this transition. You might feel different feelings and emotions than your spouse or friends in the same stage. But just because you feel differently than someone else does not make you wrong or a bad parent, Burton assures. She says it is important to give yourself, and your student, grace throughout these changes. nolafamily.com

COPING TOOLS

A tool that can help parents adjust is intentional reflection. When parents get worried about how their child is doing, or even just missing their child, they tend to want to go into “fix mode.” But this can lead to broken boundaries and create more frustration. “I like to use reflection as a way to not necessarily fix the uncomfortable emotions, but rather learn to manage the discomfort when it comes up,” says Burton. Parents can reflect on their accomplishments with parenting (“I raised an intelligent/kind/ capable child”), helpful qualities about their child (“My child is good at making friends and managing their time”), or any other pieces of information that can help them

THINGS TO REMEMBER

One of the biggest pieces of advice Burton says she can give parents when they are learning to let their child go to college is to let them make mistakes. “Well-meaning parents often want life to be easy for their children and want to mitigate or fix challenges for them. We all make mistakes, and the important part of this is the learning that comes from these experiences. It might be uncomfortable for parents to let this happen, but it can create valuable lessons for the rest of life,” she says.

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8 Vacation Themes that go Beyond the Beach!

BY AMANDA CIANI

S ummer fun is synonymous with family vacations! And for many families, that means packing up the van and heading to the beach. But what about when the kids continually hit you with, “I’m bored!”, as soon as the cooler is plopped onto the sand, even before the umbrella is popped. With only 18 summers together, beach bum parents may be considering pressing pause on their shoreline excursions to opt for something more appealing to their non-“beach-people” kids. The college years will be here before you know it (and you can head back to the beach); in the meantime, check out these eight great summer travel ideas that go beyond the beach… TRAVEL THROUGH TIME The United States of America is celebrating its 250th birthday this year! Every state across the grand U-S-of-A has unique historical sites, including some living history attractions with fun reenactors! Families interested in history can choose an era or theme, such as America’s Founding (Boston, Philadelphia, Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown), Westward Expansion (St. Louis + Independence, MO, Chimney Rock, NE), the Civil War (Gettysburg, Richmond), or Indigenous History (Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, South Dakota, North Carolina, Alaska), and plan away. MUSEUM MOSEY + ZOO HOP The majority of major cities have majorly fun museums, aquariums, and zoos. A trip to explore other cities’ offerings is both educational, and oh-so fun! Reminder: if you have a membership to your local museum, aquarium, or zoo, be sure to keep it handy when you travel. Many memberships

participate in reciprocal networks, meaning when you travel to other museums, aquariums, and zoos, you can flash your membership and receive hefty discounts or even free admission. So not only can families see cool children’s museums, science centers, history museums, aquariums, and zoos in their hometown, but all across the country— and in a fund-friendly manner, too! SPORTS STOPS Avid fans of athletics have tons of awesome options when it comes to travel. Consider a challenge to see the most games in MLB stadiums in one summer (there are 29 in the U.S. and 1 in Canada, too!), play golf on a new course, or honor the best of the best and plan a trip to see the Baseball Hall of Fame (Cooperstown, NY), the Pro Football Hall of Fame (Canton, OH), or the Basketball Hall of Fame (Springfield, MA). Another amazing opportunity for families is to check out a motorsport race at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama or at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500!

August). Head to recreation.gov for details on the America the Beautiful passes! THEME PARK TRAVEL Fans of adrenaline rushes would adore a theme park themed travel experience! And there is an assortment of parks to choose from, with an estimated 900+ theme parks located in the US. Herschend does a wonderful job with parks that boast hospitality and heart, including: Dollywood (TN), Silver Dollar City (MO), Kentucky Kingdom (KY), Dutch Wonderland (PA), Kennywood (PA), and more. Six Flags features exhilarating rides at their many parks, including: Six Flags Great Adventure (NJ), Magic Mountain (CA), Over Texas and Fiesta Texas (TX), St. Louis (MO), Kings Island and Cedar Point (OH), Carowinds (NC), Great Escape (NY), and more. Universal has several claims to fame including their Islands of Adventure in Florida, a Hollywood destination, and new this summer, Universal Kids Resort will open in Frisco, Texas! Of course, this list would not be complete without mentioning Disneyworld in Florida and California’s Disneyland, too. FOODIE ROAD TRIP The best way to some families’ hearts is through their stomachs. And every major city offers their own unique take on breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts. Some ideas to indulge in include a tour of a city’s top tacos, their take on barbeque, how they do pizza, and more. Plus, in many popular locations, food is the destination! Make a map of must-try foods, and hit the road. From cheesesteaks in Philly, lobster rolls in Maine, Chicago dogs in… Chicago, bagels

NATIONAL PARKS TOUR From sea to shining sea, there are so

many amazing landscapes to explore on our continent! Within the United States’ impressive 63 National Parks, families can explore alpine landscapes, deserts, canyons, volcanic landscapes, forests, wetlands, swamps and bayous, coastal landscapes, arctic areas, grasslands, prairies and badlands, and glaciers, too. Have a 4th grader at home? They can receive a free Every Kids Outdoors 4th Grade pass which is valid through the duration of a student’s 4th grade school year through the following summer (September-

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in NY, clam chowder in Boston, sourdough bread in San Fran, Gumbo and Jambalaya in Louisiana, Nashville Hot Chicken, Pralines in Georgia, Cheesecurds in Wisconsin, there are so many staples to taste! While exploring the nation’s flavors, also consider investigating fabulous food markets and food halls like Seattle’s Pike Place, Boston’s Quincy Market, Philly’s Reading Terminal market, NY’s Chelsea Market, NOLA’s French Market, Cincinnati’s Findlay Market, and more! FOCUS ON FILMS Movie aficionados would love traveling to filmed-in locations that immediately look familiar. The top US cities with filmed-in locations would include Los Angeles, CA, New York City, NY, and Atlanta, GA. LA boasts many behind-the-scenes studio tours and iconic filming spots that may be recognized like the Hollywood Boulevard and Griffith Observatory. NYC’s Central Park, Times Square, and downtown skyline can be seen in many popular shows and movies! And Atlanta, GA is a popular tourist destination for fans of popular Marvel films, and shows like The Walking Dead and Stranger Things ! EERIE ADVENTURES Families that are fans of oddities and spooky things have a host of haunts to explore across the US! With witchy streets to wander, quaint stores galore, and familiar sights from Hocus Pocus, Salem, Massachusetts is a mecca, of course! Beyond that, some of the most reported haunted hotels are located in unique cities, worth travelling to for fans of ghosts, or not! The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado inspired Stephen King’s The Shining , and still has regular reports of the paranormal. The Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a former hospital and “cancer cure” facility, which still offers nightly ghosts tours (and spa services, for a more relaxing, less scream-inducing time), and The Emily Morgan Hotel in San Antonio, Texas has frequent reports of apparition sightings, perhaps from past surgery patients of the medical building turned hotel. Another great idea for out-there families would be a trip to Nevada to explore the perimeter of Area 51, where lots of roadside attractions are located, or check out the city of Point Pleasant, West Virginia to see if you can find Mothman! No matter where you go, the best part of vacation is spending time with your people. So make those plans and enjoy that time- off from the everyday mundane during a fabulous fam vacay!

Wishing you a summer full of fun, A beach mom raising anti-beach boys

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Best Places to Travel in the U.S. as a Family

BY JULIANNA STEEN

M any of my favorite childhood memories come from trips my family took as I grew up. Travel can be extremely advantageous in expanding your children’s horizons (and palates!). Who says you have to have a passport to experience a different culture? Our country has so many amazing natural wonders and historic, fun-filled cities, you could plan trips for years and never leave the US. DETERMINE YOUR PRIORITIES: Before you commit to any trip, it is essential that you decide what kind of trip you want to go on. Factors like your kids’ ages, your family’s interests, and your budget will help you decide where you go. Here are some questions about “types” of trip categories to consider: • Are you hoping for a “vacation” (chill and relaxing) or a “trip” (go-go-go sightseeing)? • Does your family prefer adventuring outdoors or exploring a new city? • What can your kids handle when it comes to logistics like car time, flying, and excursions? • What excites your kids (and you, too)? • Do your kids prefer theme parks to historical sites, building a sandcastle to hiking a mountain, or small town charm to the big city? GO WEST IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS There is something awe-inspiring about seeing God’s beautiful creation in full display. Whether it’s the giant Red Rocks, the dramatically steep Rockies, a grazing wild bison, or a rushing waterfall, the nature of the

THE CITY LIFE The great thing about the city is there are always things to do for every age. My family typically plans a combination of city sightseeing and nature excursions. These are a few things to do in popular cities across the country. New York City, NY: Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Broadway plays, Twin Towers Memorial, Empire State Building, afternoon tea at the Plaza, Central Park, The High Line, Chelsea Market, FAO Schwarz, Rockefeller Center San Francisco, CA: Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies, Cable Car Ride, Ferry Building Marketplace, Palace of Fine Arts, Pier 39 (see the seals!), Alcatraz, Ghiradelli Sq., Napa Valley Dallas, TX: Fortworth Stockyard, Dallas World Aquarium, Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington), Day trip to Waco (Magnolia Silos) Nashville, TN: Country Music Hall of Fame, The Parthenon in Centennial Park, Adventure Science Center, Gaylord Opryland Hotel + Mall, 12th South (plus, easy to drive to in the South!) Washington, DC: Smithsonian (free!), National Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum, National Zoo (also free!), Lincoln Memorial + MLK Memorial walk, Library of Congress, Capitol tour, Georgetown, the White House, Monuments at night (so underrated) Boston, MA: Freedom Trail, Boston Children’s Museum, Duck Boat Tour, Boston Tea Party

Great West never fails to take my breath away. Depending on your family’s preferences, you can do a “big roadtrip” (think: driving thousands of miles RV-style), or you can go “one-home-base” style. Do what’s best for you. (My family prefers to fly in, stay in one centrally located Airbnb, and drive no more than four hours/day roundtrip.) Utah National Parks: Zion, Bryce, Arches (iconic + doable in a road trip loop) Colorado: Rocky Mountain NP + Estes Park, Boulder (great for non-desert mountain vibes!) California State & National Parks: Yosemite, Sequoia, Muir Woods South Dakota: Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park Montana: Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Jackson Hole, Bozeman Arizona: Sedona, Red Rocks, Scottsdale, Goldfield Ghost Town Best for: Late Elementary, Tweens, and Teens (easily tiring) Great if your family wants: hiking, animal spottings, outdoor adventures, stargazing, ATVing, horseback riding, ziplining, white water rafting Don’t miss: Be sure to try local foods like huckleberry jam, bison burgers, or cactus. Good to know: It’s highly recommend going in “off season” (fall) for cheaper prices if you’re not planning to ski. This is the secret sauce: Fly into a city (like Phoenix, Denver, or Las Vegas) and spend a little time there, and then go explore nature.

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This is the secret sauce: Know your family. If you’re not museum people, don’t plan to go to five museums. If you’re big foodies, make a few reservations or do some research on local foods/popular food joints. Want to see a show? Get tickets ahead of time. BEYOND THE BEACH If you’re a beach fam, that’s fabulous—gotta love a classic trip to Gulf Shores, AL or Destin, FL. But consider spicing up your beach trip by trying a new location that also offers other attractions outside of the beach. San Diego, CA: See the seals, day trip to Carlsbad (tulips), LEGOLAND California, San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, Old Town San Diego Florida Keys: Key West Shipwreck Museum (pirate-y), Turtle Hospital, Robbie’s of Islamorada (feed the tarpon), The Overseas Highway, Dolphin Research Center Outer Banks, NC: The Lost Colony/Roanoke history, Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kitty Hawk), Aquarium on Roanoke Island, jeep tour of wild horses in Corolla Miami, FL: Brickell/downtown Miami, Bayside Marketplace, Little Havana, Everglades airboat tour, Wynwood Walls Charleston, SC: Walk the Historic District, Charleston City Market, King Street, The Battery, White Point Garden, Magnolia

Museum, Public Library, Harvard, Public Gardens, Fenway Park, Quincy Market, Beacon Hill Seattle, WA: Pike Place Market (watch the fish toss), Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Seattle Aquarium, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Ferry to Bainbridge Island (cheap “mini adventure”), Woodland Park Zoo, Discovery Park Las Vegas, NV: Bellagio Fountains + Conservatory, stroll the Strip, Shark Reef Aquarium (Mandalay Bay), Tournament of Kings (Medieval Times energy), Area15, Valley of Fire, Grand Canyon West, Red Rock Canyon Los Angeles, CA: Griffith Observatory (free!), Hollywood sign, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach boardwalk, Warner Bros Studio Tour, Disneyland, Hollywood Blvd., The Grove, the Farmers Market, Universal CityWalk/ Universal Studios Best for: You can easily adapt your trip to accommodate all ages and interests. Great if your family wants: Easy stroller days, museums, variety of food options, cityscapes, excersions Don’t miss: Cities are always hosting cool events, whether it’s festivals or concerts. Check ahead of time to see what will be happening when you’ll be visiting! Good to know: Walkable cities are ideal, but many also have great public transportation.

Plantation & Gardens Hawaii: The upgrade of a lifetime! Volcanoes, Pearl Harbor, luaus, waterfalls, jungle, fruit stands Best for: Whether your teen is hoping for more than just beach time or you’re wanting stroller-friendly activities, these beach-city combos work for most everyone. Great if your family wants: Beach, but also shopping, museums, cultural experiences Don’t miss: Even if you’re not “beach people,” some of the best moments come from being by the water. Try a boat ride, a peer over the pier, or a Highway 1-esque drive for good views. Good to know: You can typically find several epic free activities no matter where you go— you don’t have to break the bank in order to have a good time. This is the secret sauce: Breaking up your beach days will help you to enjoy them even more! Whether you’re planning an extensive 10- day trip or a spur-of-the-moment weekend getaway, you won’t regret exploring these incredible sights across the US with your kids. I can testify: Those memories will last a lifetime and will bond you closer together as a family.

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MARCH 2026

things to do

Frozen the Broadway Musical Follow the musically stage-adapted story of princess Anna and queen Elsa as they adventure on a journey of sisterhood, self- discovery, and finding the meaning of true love in the JPA production. March 6–14. jeffersonpac.com

Banana Ball

The Savannah Bananas are coming to New Orleans to showcase the fast-paced and entertainment-packed baseball spectacle. With constant action and circus-like energy, it is a game for the whole family to enjoy. March 15–16. caesarssuperdome.com

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Join in on the luck of the Irish fun for the 55th annual celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. With over 100 floats, trucks, bands, marching clubs and throws to go around, bring the entire family to the original parade route down Metairie Road. March 15. stpatricksdaymetairie.com

Swan Lake

Experience the legendary tale in this magnificent ballet production—featuring 50 international cast members, 150 hand-sewn costumes, hand-crafted sets, and iconic musical scores and stunning ballet sequences. March 20. orpheumnola.com

Fête Française

Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orléans’annual free street festival keeps Louisiana’s Francophone heritage alive through a variety of food, music, art, entertainment, children’s activities, and more. March 21. fetefrancaise.com

HEADS UP! Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information.

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The Great Gatsby

Ages 10 years and older are invited to enjoy the Broadway extravaganza, which tells the classic story of love, wealth, and tragedy in the Roaring Twenties in a brand-new,

musically-acclaimed way. March 24–29. saengernola.com

Disney on Ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party Witness magical moments that take place on the ice and in the air through the multi-leveled production, featuring beloved Disney characters for the whole family to enjoy at the Lakefront Arena. March 26–29. arena.uno.edu

Louisiana Crawfish Festival Head to St. Bernard for the day to eat delicious crawfish, enjoy over 25 exciting carnival rides, and listen to local live music for the whole family to enjoy. March 26–29. louisianacrawfishfestival.com

Mud Fest 2026 Louisiana Children’s Museum is hosting their signature environmental day-long event, featuring fun-filled activities, messy play, New Orleans culture, and most importantly, interactive education about our very own wetlands. March 28. lcm.org

Egg Scramble

A morning filled with egg hunts, rides, and festivities at City Park, where families and kiddos can experience live tunes, balloon art, a petting zoo, face painting, and take photos with the Easter Bunny! March 29. neworleanscitypark.org

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