Clementina Verge

Latest posts by Clementina

Bilingual Preschools/Learning Centers in Connecticut for Your Littlest Learners

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Sat, 09/02/2017 - 1:00pm

Bonjour! Buongiorno! Guten Morgen! It’s no secret that speaking a second language provides lifelong benefits. Before we know it, today's preschoolers will be college students studying abroad and embarking on careers in a global economy. Until then, they can sharpen their minds, enhance their memory and critical thinking skills. Below are a handful of preschools in the Connecticut that immerse young students in a second language. Also, check out some tips for how to choose the right preschool for your child.

Learning and Playing at KidsPlay Children's Museum in Torrington

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Fri, 08/25/2017 - 1:11pm

When my kids wanted a fun place to visit, they rarely (okay, never) asked: “Can we go to Torrington?” But that has changed since our first visit to KidsPlay, a children’s museum located downtown in Litchfield County’s largest city. After just one visit, KidsPlay became a favorite destination, and these days, the museum is better than ever after a recently completed expansion that doubled the square footage and play space. From the moment you enter through its doors (monitored by security cameras), the amount of creativity and fun details will leave you impressed and little adventurers giddy. The museum is designed for ages 2-8, and without a doubt, the persons behind its establishment know what makes children happy and how they learn best through play.

Courage and Compassion at Harriet Beecher Stowe's House

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Sun, 08/20/2017 - 11:00am

Children love superheroes, those powerful people whose good deeds defeat evil, and leave the world a better place. Once kids start hearing about the amazing life of Harriet Beecher Stowe, they'll realize she totally qualifies as one. A tour of Hartford County's Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, which features her home and a museum, offers the opportunity to learn about this beloved author, and how she helped change history.

A Visit to Auerfarm in Bloomfield

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Sat, 08/19/2017 - 4:28pm

Sprawled on 120 acres in Bloomfield, Auerfarm is a pastoral oasis in the Hartford area. From the moment you turn on the dirt road, you feel the freedom and peace of farm life. Children will be more than happy to explore for a couple of hours, romping in meadows, spotting dragonflies, and greeting farm animals.

Corn Maze, Apple Picking, and More Farm Fun at Lyman Orchards

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Tue, 08/01/2017 - 11:40pm

Lyman Orchards is one of those idyllic places where sprawling vistas, trees brimming with fruit, and a deliciously stocked country store make you feel like you are splurging on a vacation; however, given their 30-minute proximity to Hartford, New Haven, and Waterbury, chances are you’re probably still very close to home. This Connecticut landmark is a favorite family-friendly destination throughout the year, but the views and ambiance are especially spectacular in the fall.

Summer Fun at Stratton Brook State Park

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Tue, 08/01/2017 - 8:09pm

Swimming in pools is nice, but there is something quintessentially New England about digging your toes in the sand and wading through a refreshing lake or pond. Luckily, several swimming holes are located in the Hartford area, some of which are free during the week. Whether you're looking to swim, hike, fish, or enjoy a peaceful bicycle ride, Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury makes a beautiful backdrop for all such activities.

Visiting Animals and Exploring Gardens at Westmoor Park

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Mon, 07/24/2017 - 10:58pm

West Hartford is a bustling town that offers everything from great libraries and restaurants, to a children's museum, an ice skating rink, and playgrounds. You'll also find here a tranquil nature center that provides a brief escape from the daily responsibilities of a fast-paced life while enabling little ones to come up close to farm animals. Bonus: visiting Westmoor Park is one of the many free destinations your family can enjoy in the Hartford area.

Shop for Great Bargains and Variety at Consignment Stores in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Wed, 07/12/2017 - 4:45am

Ahhh, the excitement of back-to-school shopping: notebooks, pencils, crayons...and clothes and shoes you know your child will outgrow by year's end. It’s one thing to invest in quality items as an adult, but quite another to contend with growth spurts, messy dinners and art projects, or heavy playground wear and tear.

Consignment stores are enticing for a few reasons: the savings are most obvious; oftentimes, you can purchase new children's items with original price tags still attached and expensive brand names at less than half the original cost. In addition to keeping more money in your wallet, you'll also find more variety and benefit the environment when giving something used new life again.

Of course, you can also make money or earn store credit when selling your child's gently used clothing. So, whether you're looking for school uniforms, sweaters, pants, or specialty items like festive wear, dance apparel, baby equipment, toys, and books, check out the following spots in the greater Hartford area for consignment opportunities near you.