A Black Mom’s Guide to Intentional Living - All Post
March 12, 2025

12 Must-Visit Places to Take Your Kids In Houston



Hey Mamas!

I know this season is hectic, but I hope you're taking some time to breathe and care for yourself. Finding fun places to take your kids in Houston can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you're looking for adventure, education, or just a way to keep them busy (because let’s be real, they have energy for days), this list has something for everyone. With spring break right around the corner, let’s dive into the best spots for making unforgettable family memories in Houston!

 

1. Parks, Gardens, and Playgrounds: A Classic Adventure

Houston has some amazing parks that are perfect for running, playing, and just letting kids be kids.

  • Hermann Park: A massive 445-acre urban park with playgrounds, trails, and even a train ride! I personally love going here solo, but it’s also great with kids.
  • Discovery Green: A vibrant 12-acre park in downtown Houston with playgrounds, splash pads, and wide-open spaces. Parking can be tricky, so I recommend going early!
  • Houston Botanic Garden: A peaceful, educational spot where kids can explore different plants and themed gardens.
  • McGovern Centennial Gardens: Nestled in Hermann Park, this beautifully landscaped space is great for kids to roam and explore.

Check out a full list of Houston parks here.

2. Dive into Discovery at Museums

Museums aren’t just for grown-ups—Houston has plenty of hands-on, interactive experiences for curious little minds.

  • Children’s Museum Houston: Packed with fun, hands-on activities for kids 0–12. They’ve recently upgraded a lot of spaces for even more exploring!
  • Houston Museum of African American Culture: Family-friendly exhibits showcasing African American history, art, and culture. Check it out here.
  • Houston Museum of Natural Science: From dinosaur skeletons to the planetarium, there’s always something new to discover. Pro tip: The downtown location is way better than the Sugar Land one!
  • Buffalo Soldiers National Museum: Learn about African American military history through interactive exhibits and displays.
3. Meet the Animals: Zoos and Aquariums

Nothing lights up a kid’s face like seeing their favorite animals up close.

  • Houston Zoo: Home to over 6,000 animals with interactive exhibits and educational programs.
  • Downtown Aquarium: Could use a little refresh, but it still has cool marine life exhibits, touch tanks, and even a Ferris wheel.
  • Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve: Hands-on exhibits, animal feedings, and learning experiences make this a great day out! Check them out here.
4. Libraries: A World of Imagination

Libraries aren’t just for books anymore—they offer storytime, crafts, and cozy play areas.

  • African American Library at Gregory School: A historic site with exhibits and archives celebrating African American culture.
  • Houston Public Library – Central Library: Tons of children’s programs, storytimes, and interactive events.
5. Indoor Play Centers: Rainy Day Bliss

Houston weather is unpredictable, but these spots are perfect for burning off energy indoors.

  • Jumping World: A fun trampoline park for all ages.
  • Urban Air: A locally owned indoor adventure park in Katy.
  • Big Air Trampoline Park - North Houston: From ninja courses to trampoline dodgeball, this place has it all. Check them out here.
6. Water Fun: Pools and Splash Pads

Cool off and make a splash at these kid-friendly spots!

  • Typhoon Texas Waterpark: A family favorite! The lazy river is a must.
  • Big Rivers Water Park: A hidden gem my family discovered during a pumpkin patch visit. Check it out here.
7. Farms and Petting Zoos: A Hands-On Experience

Get up close with farm animals and enjoy seasonal activities like berry picking and hayrides.

  • Dewberry Farm: Fun seasonal events like a pumpkin patch and corn maze.
  • Blessington Farms: A great place for animal encounters and picking fresh fruit.
  • Froberg Farm: The best spot for strawberry picking! My son and I are going in April—I can’t wait!
8. Beaches and Boardwalks: Sun, Sand, and Fun

A quick drive from Houston can get you to some fun waterfront spots.

  • Galveston Beach: Perfect for a beach day with the kids.
  • Sylvan Beach Park: Offers swimming, fishing, and a playground.
  • Kemah Boardwalk: Rides, games, and kid-friendly restaurants all in one spot! More details here.
9. Movie Theaters: Big-Screen Magic

Sometimes you just need to sit back and enjoy a good movie.

  • AMC Theater: Family-friendly screenings with comfy seating.
  • ShowBiz Cinemas: Movies, bowling, and an arcade—what more could you ask for? Check it out here.
10. Sports and Games: Active Fun

Bowling alleys, skating rinks, or mini-golf courses are perfect for active outings.

  • Dave and Busters: Features sporting area for adults and arcade games for a high-energy day out.
  • Main Event Entertainment: A one-stop destination for bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and more. Visit Main Event

11. Seasonal Events: Year-Round Fun

Seasonal key events everyone must try.

  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: A beloved seasonal event offering rides, games, and kid-friendly activities during the spring. When i tell you, my kid and I had a blast! It was the best. Visit Houston Rodeo.
  • Urban Harvest Farmers Market: A weekly market offering fresh produce, live music, and kids’ activities. Visit Urban Harvest.

12. Black-Owned, Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Support Black-owned businesses while enjoying delicious, kid-approved meals!

  • Lucille’s: Southern comfort food with a welcoming atmosphere. Great for brunch with the little ones! Lucille’s
  • The Breakfast Klub: Famous for their chicken and waffles—perfect for a morning out with the family! The Breakfast Klub
  • Gazebo: A kid-friendly spot with a Louisiana vibe, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. Gazebo
  • Stuff’d Wings: A creative twist on classic wings with fun flavors kids will love. Stuff’d Wings
No matter what you and your little ones are into, Houston has something fun for every family. I hope this list helps you plan some exciting adventures with your babies. Let me know which spots are your favorites or if there’s a hidden gem I should check out next!

Happy exploring! 🖤


March 08, 2025

How to Plan a Branding Photo-shoot Day

 



 

HOW TO PLAN YOUR BRANDING PHOTOSHOOT

— A Simple Guide to Stress-Free, High-Quality Visuals

Peace, blessings, and love to you all. Branding photoshoots can feel intimidating—especially when you’re juggling multiple platforms, showing up consistently, and trying to visually communicate who you are and what you do. But with the right plan, your shoot day can be smooth, intentional, and truly reflective of your brand.

Whether you're a business owner, creative, or influencer, thoughtful preparation will save you time, eliminate overwhelm, and help you walk away with photos and videos you can use for months. Here’s how to plan your shoot with confidence.

1. Get Clear on Your Brand Story + Shoot Goals

Before stepping in front of the camera, take time to outline the message you want your visuals to communicate. Ask yourself:

  • What story am I telling through these images?
  • Who is my audience, and what do I want them to feel?
  • What content do I need for my website, social media, or marketing?

This clarity helps you create intentional visuals—not random photos that don’t match your brand identity.

2. Choose Outfits, Props, and Locations That Match Your Brand

Your photoshoot should show your brand, not just tell it. Select items that support your message:

  • Outfits that reflect your brand colors, personality, and professionalism
  • Props that highlight the tools you use, your lifestyle, or your products
  • Locations that match your vibe—minimalist, creative, luxurious, cozy, or bold

Consistency will make your images instantly recognizable across every platform.

3. Batch Your Shots for Maximum Efficiency

Instead of randomly capturing content, organize it by themes or needs. Try batching:

  • Headshots
  • Behind-the-scenes moments
  • Thought-leadership or coaching-style photos
  • Lifestyle images of you working, planning, or creating

Batching speeds everything up and ensures you leave with a full library of diverse visuals.

4. Prep Your Equipment + Set the Scene

A smooth branding shoot starts with preparation. Before your shoot, make sure you have:

  • A charged phone or camera
  • Good lighting—natural if possible, ring light or softbox if not
  • Easy outfit changes for variety
  • A playlist to keep the energy high

A little prep goes a long way toward a polished, professional look.

5. Grab the Free Branding Photoshoot Checklist

To make this easier, I created a FREE checklist that walks you through every part of planning your branding shoot—from mapping your shot list to prepping your outfits. Download it and use it before every photoshoot to stay organized and stress-free.

 

👉 Download it now and make your next content shoot effortless! Link Here

February 26, 2025

How to Support Your Child’s Behavior at School

 

As we are midway through the school year and as a parent, I want to ensure that my child develops positive behavior habits that set him up for success. When he started receiving conduct marks for things like not listening the first time or being slightly disruptive, I knew it was important to understand what was causing these challenges and how to best support his growth. Here’s how to navigate this if you're ever in this situation as a parent trying to support your child effectively both in class and raising them up.

 

Step 1: Take a Breath First

The first thing I had to do was just take a breath. As parents, we juggle so much—not just in our personal lives but also with everything happening around the world. When something happens at school, especially when it feels unclear as to what is happening, my first reaction is frustration. But before reacting, I take a moment, breathe, and approach the situation with a clear mind.

 

Step 2: Helping Your Child at Home

After calming down and understanding the situation, the next step is to help your child navigate their behavior effectively.

  • Discuss Their Conduct Openly

    Sit down with your child and have a calm conversation about what happened. Ask open-ended questions to get their side of the story. This helps you understand if the marks are justified or if they feel unfairly treated. Instead of jumping to conclusions, use this as a learning moment.

  • Create a Behavior Tracking Chart

    Kids love visuals, and a behavior tracking system helps them take ownership of their actions. Log daily whether they listened the first time, followed directions, and stayed focused in class. Celebrate small wins and progress rather than just focusing on mistakes. To add fun to it, I like to add a sticker to reward great behavior.

  • Use Positive Reinforcement

    Instead of just focusing on punishment, reward good behavior. Praise them when they listen the first time, follow directions, or improve their focus. Small incentives, like extra playtime or a fun activity, can be strong motivators to keep them on track.

  • Practice Listening & Following Directions

    Reinforce listening skills at home by turning it into a game. Give simple directions and challenge them to follow them the first time. Over time, this helps build a habit of immediate response and attentiveness.

    If there isn’t any improvement, I usually take it to the next step below.

Step 3: Communicating with the School

  1. Request a Meeting with the Teacher

    Open communication with your child’s teacher is essential. This week, I scheduled a meeting with my son’s teacher to gain a clearer understanding of the situation. When preparing for a meeting like this, think about specific questions that relate to your child’s experiences. Ask about the school’s behavior policies, how conduct marks are assigned, and whether the challenges are unique to your child or part of a broader classroom issue.

    I approach these conversations as a collaborative effort to support my child, rather than just seeking answers.

  2. Ask for Documentation & School Policies

    If you don't have it already, request a copy of the behavior policy to ensure the school is following clear guidelines. This helps understand what’s expected and if there is details you need to know about in discipline.

  3. Ensure Fair Treatment

    If I suspect that my child is being unfairly disciplined compared to others, I would gather evidence by talking to other parents, requesting class observations, or discussing with school administrators.

     

Our kids behavior is an opportunity for growth, both for them and for you as their advocate. By reinforcing positive behaviors at home, you can help them develop the skills needed to succeed. Open dialogue with teachers, setting clear expectations, and tracking progress are key strategies in guiding them toward better conduct.

 

Would you like a free copy of the Behavior Tracking Chart to help guide your child’s progress? Click here to download it and start using it today!


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