🧭Splashes, Smiles & Goodbyes

Welcome to The Local Rundown Northampton your new dose of family-friendly fun, events, recipes, and real-life parent tips.

The official launch is Friday, August 29, 2025, but you’re in early so you’ll see things first.

See you Friday!

Mark & The Local Rundown Northampton Crew

Summer isn’t quite over until you’ve had one last splash. Many community pools and splash pads across the Lehigh Valley close right before Labor Day, making this week the perfect chance for a final water day.

Some local favorites include the Bethlehem Rose Garden Splash Pad, where kids can run through jets of water in a safe, shaded setting, and the Boro Pool in Nazareth, which offers both a traditional pool and a shallow kids’ area. Hackett Park Pool in Easton is another hit, especially for families looking for a budget-friendly option.

What makes splash pads especially great is the low-pressure vibe. No swimming skills required, no need for floaties—just kids giggling and squealing as the water sprays. They’re ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, while older kids still manage to turn it into a game of tag. Pools, on the other hand, offer a more classic experience for families who want to really swim, dive, and lounge.

Parent tips:

Whether it’s a few hours at a pool or a quick stop at a splash pad, these last water days are a chance to savor summer before trading swimsuits for school shoes.

As summer winds down, kids across Northampton County are gearing up for fall sports. If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time—many local leagues are open for sign-ups through late August.

Youth sports aren’t just about exercise—they give kids a sense of belonging and teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience. For parents, they’re also a way to connect with other families in the community.

Parent tips:

Fall sports season is short, sweet, and full of energy. If your child hasn’t tried one yet, this year might be the perfect time.

Ah, the lunchbox shuffle. Packing school lunches five days a week can feel like a second job—but it doesn’t have to. With a little prep and a few creative tricks, you can make it easier on yourself and more fun for your kids.

One favorite strategy is theme days. Taco Tuesday, Sandwich Friday, or even Muffin Monday help simplify planning. Kids like the predictability, and it saves parents from the “what do I pack?” spiral.

Another hack is setting up prep bins in the fridge or pantry. Fill them with ready-to-go sides like baby carrots, cheese sticks, applesauce pouches, or granola bars. In the morning, let kids choose a couple of items to add to their main dish. It gives them ownership, and you know they’ll actually eat what’s packed.

Don’t underestimate the power of local produce. August is prime time for peaches, apples, and cherry tomatoes from the Easton or Bath Farmers’ Markets. When kids help pick fruit, they’re often more excited to eat it.

For variety, swap traditional sandwiches with wraps, quesadillas, or even breakfast-for-lunch options like hard-boiled eggs and mini pancakes. The key is keeping it realistic and low-stress—Pinterest-perfect lunches are optional.

Parent tips:

Lunch packing may never be fun, but with a few systems in place, it can be painless—and maybe even a little creative.

We can’t wait to be back
with you soon,

Mark