Elsa Simcik

Elsa Simcik has been freelance writing for 20-something years, covering a hodgepodge of fields--health & fitness, human interest stories, and even dating. After becoming a mom she segued into writing for local magazines and websites, focusing on parenting, fun things to do with kids, and travel. The travel part is fun, but not as glamorous as it sounds, because it's traveling with kids. Still, she'll take it.

Latest posts by Elsa

Best Atlanta Playgrounds for Toddlers to Climb, Run, and Explore

Submitted by Elsa Simcik on Sun, 02/06/2022 - 10:10am

Toddlers can climb among the tree canopy at the Fernbank Forest WildWoods playground . Photo by Kristin Kneeland

Playgrounds for toddlers in Atlanta mean smaller slides, lower ladders, and bucket swings. (And if it has a perimeter fence to secure toddler escape artists, even better.) We're lucky to have gorgeous parks and playgrounds in Atlanta, as well as green space galore right in the heart of the city. Many of these parks offer playgrounds with slides, rope courses, swings, even a splash pad; but if you have toddlers, parents need to be more playground particular. That's why we have scoured Atlanta for toddler playgrounds that suit the under-three set.

Looking for more fun for your little ones? Check out our ideas for 25 Great Things To Do in Atlanta with Toddlers and Preschoolers as well as Easy Toddler Games.

10 Atlanta Acting Classes and Schools for Kids to Steal the Show

Submitted by Elsa Simcik on Sun, 09/19/2021 - 8:12am

Georgia Ensemble Theatre & Conservatory. Photo courtesy of the theater

Atlanta is often called the "Hollywood of the South," so it's no wonder the acting bug is spreading to local kids interested in Atlanta acting classes. Living in a hub for film, TV, commercials, and theater also provides potential opportunities for young people to take acting classes from the pros and get noticed by industry insiders. Even if your child doesn't have aspirations of Oscar fame, Atlanta acting classes foster confidence, social skills, and public speaking expertise. Check out our list of theaters and Atlanta acting schools to add a little more drama—the good kind—into your lives!

Could We BE More Excited for The Friends Experience in NYC?

Submitted by Elsa Simcik on Mon, 08/16/2021 - 12:06pm

Cheers to the The Friends Experience: The One in New York City.

Fans of Friends—both fanatic and fair-weathered—can flock to an immersive, interactive pop-up to see sets, costumes, and memorabilia from the '90s sitcom that launched "The Rachel." Since viewers can now watch Monica, Chandler, Ross, Joey, Rachel, and Phoebe nightly in reruns or through streaming services, the show has found a younger fan base. For both original fans and new ones, The Friends Experience: The One in New York City does not disappoint.

We checked out the two-floor experience—the flagship location and largest of several related Friends' experiences that have popped up nationwide—to see if it's worth visiting and just how kid-friendly the throwback attraction is. Find more family-friendly local outings in our roundup of 25 indoor places to play to beat summer's heat.

Best Sports Classes for Kids in Atlanta

Submitted by Elsa Simcik on Sun, 08/15/2021 - 10:11am

Sports classes for kids teach perseverance, skill, and teamwork.

Introducing kids to sports classes at an early age has loads of benefits —young children (toddlers, preschoolers) can develop social skills, problem-solving techniques, and self-esteem, not to mention burn off all that youthful energy. We've gathered great sports classes for kids in Atlanta and surrounding suburbia that will not only build skill but also add joy. These kids sports classes are more introductory—less about the scoreboard and more fun.

To find even more ideas about kids classes and programs, check out our Guide to Best Kids Classes and Activities in Atlanta. It's a great way to teach kids new skills and indulge their passions.

Could We BE More Excited for The Friends Experience in Atlanta?!

Submitted by Elsa Simcik on Fri, 08/06/2021 - 10:11am

Cheers to the arrival of The Friends Experience in Atlanta.

Fans of Friends—both fanatic and fair-weathered—flock to Perimeter Pointe to see sets, costumes and memorabilia from the 90s sitcom that launched "The Rachel." Since viewers can now watch Monica, Chandler, Ross, Joey, Rachel and Phoebe nightly in reruns or through streaming services, the show has found a younger fan base. For both original fans and new, The Friends Experience: The One in Atlanta does not disappoint. We checked it out to see if it was more of an adults-only activity or a family-friendly event.

7 Great Bike Paths in Atlanta for Family Rides

Submitted by Elsa Simcik on Fri, 04/02/2021 - 12:50pm

The Stone Mountain Path begins in Atlanta, winding past local historic sites. Photo courtesy of the path

Whether you're a serious cyclist or a toddler on training wheels, riding a bike is an activity to enjoy with the whole family. Just like President John F. Kennedy famously said, "Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride."

Luckily, the Atlanta area is filled with designated bike paths that incorporate our city's beautiful trees. We scoped out the best ones for families--flat, fun and doable for all ages (restrooms required). These trails are a perfect addition to our outdoors guide. After a ride, why not pay a visit to one of these Atlanta destination playgrounds?

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Elsa Simcik

Latest posts by Elsa

Best Atlanta Playgrounds for Toddlers to Climb, Run, and Explore

10 Atlanta Acting Classes and Schools for Kids to Steal the Show

Could We BE More Excited for The Friends Experience in NYC?

Best Sports Classes for Kids in Atlanta

Could We BE More Excited for The Friends Experience in Atlanta?!

7 Great Bike Paths in Atlanta for Family Rides

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