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Calling all book-loving families, storytime superstars, and parents of tiny page‑turners!

Does your kid devour books like snacks, or melt into your lap the moment you say, “Once upon a time…”?

We’re swimming in amazing children’s book submissions — a wonderful problem to have — but there are simply too many for us to review on our own. And saying “no” to authors who pour their hearts into these stories? It hurts our book‑loving souls.

So… we had an idea. A fun one. A community-powered, story-celebrating, book‑sharing idea - and a chance for you and your littles to receive free children’s books in exchange for writing honest reviews.

Book reviews are essential for authors—especially indie authors who rely on visibility, word of mouth, and authentic reader feedback. As a community of readers, parents, and book lovers, we love supporting fellow writers and helping great books find their audience.

We also believe deeply in fostering a love of reading in children and making books accessible to families in our community. This program supports authors while also putting more stories into the hands of young readers.

This Read & Share Book Review Program connects children’s book authors with real readers and provides honest reviews that are shared on the Live Grow Play Austin blog, newsletter, and Facebook page, with many reviewers also choosing to post their honest review on Amazon.

Austin doesn’t get many winter storms, but when we do, the whole city acts like someone unplugged the world. Roads close, schools shut down, and suddenly every kid in town is stuck inside staring out the window like, “Is this… snow? Ice? Magic?”

And with friends scattered across town,  kids still want to play — even if no one can leave the house.

Below are fun, silly ways they can stay connected from home while Austin waits for the thaw.

When your children outgrow their toys, books, and gear, these items still have plenty of life left in them. Rather than letting them gather dust in the garage or sending them to a landfill, Austin offers numerous nonprofits eager to give these items a second chance with families who need them. But here's what matters most: not all organizations accept used items, and their specific requirements vary widely. Here's a list of organizations that accept used items.

Welcome to the 2025 Home & Lifestyle Holiday Gift Guide—where cozy meets clever, and every corner of your home gets a little more “ooh, where’d you get that?” Whether you’re gifting to a design-obsessed friend, a wellness-loving aunt, or just treating yourself (because yes, you deserve it), we’ve rounded up our favorite finds to elevate the everyday. 

So whether you’re hosting, hibernating, or just trying to keep the peace between the quiet and the chaos, we’ve got gifts that bring joy to every nook and cranny.

If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, joyful music, and a community that knows how to celebrate the season, mark your calendar for the Liberty Hill Christmas Festival—happening Saturday, December 13, 2025 in the heart of downtown Liberty Hill.

This beloved annual event transforms the town into a winter wonderland, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors for a full day of holiday cheer. Whether you're a longtime resident or just passing through, Liberty Hill’s festive spirit is sure to warm your heart.

Welcome to the 2025 Kitchen Gift Guide—where flavor meets function, and every item earns its spot at the table. Whether you're shopping for a multitasking parent, a budding home chef, or that friend who throws themed dinner parties “just because,” this guide is packed with gifts that stir up joy, spark creativity, and make everyday meals feel like a celebration.

We’re curating pieces that go beyond the basics—tools that help families thrive, hosts shine, and foodies geek out in style. Think smart design, bold utility, and a dash of delight. If it’s beautiful, practical, and built to handle the chaos of real life (with a little flair), we want to see it.

Toys are important, and let’s face it—super fun!

The best ones ignite a child’s imagination, boost creativity, and make learning feel like playtime.

But let’s be real—many toys are just flashy packages waiting to be torn open on Christmas morning, a birthday, or any gift-giving occasion. They bring a quick thrill, then get tossed aside, forgotten, and eventually end up in a landfill.

Luckily, Austin is an amazing place to raise kids, and it’s packed with fantastic gift alternatives that go beyond toys. These options aren’t just fun—they’re meaningful, memorable, and perfect for the whole family to enjoy!

The holiday season is typically associated with joy, love, and generosity. However, for many children in foster care or residing in homeless shelters, this time serves as a stark reminder of the difficulties they face. It is in these moments that acts of kindness and generosity shine the brightest. 

Here is a list of local organizations that are looking for Holiday sponsors this year.

Life Is Better With Friends, founded by a local mom and author in the Austin area, is teaming up with the North Pole to deliver pure holiday magic to families across Texas. The mailbox is about to get a glow-up—because this year, something cheerful, sparkly, and straight from Santa’s desk is headed your way.

Santa’s got his cocoa, the elves are on glitter patrol, and the reindeer are doing warm-up laps—because this year’s mail is packed with praise, giggles, and a little North Pole mischief. Whether your kid rescued a bug, shared their snack, or asked if snow tastes like marshmallows, they’ve earned a moment of magic.

Hurry, spots are limited—request your child's free Santa letter and Nice List certificate now!

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