12 After-School Activities to Keep Kids Off Screens
Looking for easy after-school activities to keep kids off screens? Try these 12 simple, low-prep ideas that encourage creativity, independent play, and time together.
Back-to-School Check-In: 7 Things to Look for in Your Child After the First Few Weeks
The first few weeks of school can be a big adjustment for kids. Learn 7 things parents should check to help their children settle into a healthy school-year routine.
The Weekend Activity That Teaches Kids More Than a Year of Worksheets Ever Could
My 5 and 7 year old spent their Saturday running a real lemonade stand at our local farmers market's Young Entrepreneurs program — in 100-degree heat, no less. Here's the surprisingly powerful lesson in money, confidence, and grit they walked away with (and how you can give your own kids the same opportunity).
Homemade Animal Crackers Recipe: A Fun (and Messy) Baking Day with My Kids
Baking homemade animal crackers with a 5-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a 4-month-old on my hip was messy, chaotic, and completely worth it. Here's our real-life story plus the easy recipe — and why homemade beats the box every time.
This Week’s GCM Cheat Sheet
Looking for family-friendly things to do on the Mississippi Gulf Coast? Check out The Coast Mom Cheat Sheet for the best kid-friendly events, festivals, activities, seasonal fun, and local happenings from Waveland to Pascagoula (plus worth-the-drive events beyond the Coast). Updated weekly with easy family fun ideas.
GCM Mom: Meet Lauren Holder
Meet this week's GCM Mom, Lauren Holder—a Long Beach mom, children's author, and mama-to-be of two. Learn about her favorite Mississippi Gulf Coast spots, parenting advice, local businesses she loves, and the story behind her upcoming children's book.
The Ultimate MS Gulf Coast Party Guide 2026
Planning a birthday party on the Mississippi Gulf Coast? The Gulf Coast Mom's Ultimate Party Guide 2026 features the best party venues, entertainers, bakeries, balloon artists, photographers, mobile party services, and more in Gulfport, Biloxi, Ocean Springs, Long Beach, Pass Christian, and beyond. Find everything you need to create an unforgettable celebration for kids of all ages in one convenient local guide.
10 Kid Podcasts for Your Summer Road Trip (educational and fun!)
Make your summer road trips easier with this curated list of 10 kid-friendly podcasts perfect for keeping children entertained, engaged, and learning on the go. From trivia games and storytelling adventures to science, history, mythology, and faith-based content, these podcasts help reduce screen time while turning long car rides into fun, meaningful listening experiences the whole family can enjoy.
Meet This Month’s Gulf Coast Mom: Brook Legg
Meet this month’s Gulf Coast Mom, Brook Legg — homeschool mom of seven, nature photographer, coffee lover, and encourager. From homeschool track meets to macro photography and meaningful mom wisdom, get to know the Mississippi mom we’re celebrating this month.
A Gulf Coast Mom’s Guide to Summer Fun
The Mississippi Coast has so much to offer families when it comes to SUMMER FUN! From fun beach spots in every town to great local splash pads and parks, there’s truly something for everyone! Check out our resources below for more summer fun and make sure to follow our events page for events going on all summer long!
My 7-Year-Old Got Her First “Job”… and It Made Me Realize Something About Kids Today
A simple neighborhood “job” for my 7-year-old revealed how small responsibilities help kids build real confidence and independence in everyday life.
Summer Meals Have Entered Their Survival Era (And Honestly, We’re Just Trying Our Best)
Summer break has a way of turning kids into full-time snackers. From muffin tin lunches to easy dinner ideas, one Gulf Coast mom shares simple, realistic meal hacks that are making summer feeding a whole lot easier.
Are Sleepovers Still a Thing… or Are Parents Over Them?
Sleepovers used to feel like a normal part of childhood—but many parents today are rethinking them. From “only cousins” to hard no-rules, Gulf Coast moms are sharing how their perspectives on sleepovers and parenting have changed over the years.
Are We Over-Scheduling Our Kids… or Just Keeping Up?
Are kids’ schedules getting out of control? From sports and dance to birthday parties and school events, Gulf Coast moms are sharing what’s working—and what’s not—when it comes to balancing busy family life.
Easy Wins for Moms: 15 Things That Make Life 10x Easier
Discover 15 easy mom hacks and time-saving tips to simplify your daily routine. From organization to meal planning, these practical ideas help make life easier for busy moms.
Is It Just a Phase... or Something More? Understanding Focus, Behavior, and Attention in Kids
Wondering if your child’s behavior is just a phase or something more? Learn the signs, what to look for, and when to consider an ADHD evaluation.