Just because school has started back doesn't mean there's no more time for fun. The first week can be stressful for many reasons — new classes, new schedule, class fees — but you and your kids will adjust.
Actually, you should celebrate surviving the first week. Check out these family-friendly picks in Gwinnett County.
Enjoy a frozen treat at Rita's. Prices vary. 340 Town Center Ave., Suwanee, Ga. 30024. 678-765-2889. www.ritasfranchises.com.
Why go to an ordinary ice cream shop when you can bring your kids to Rita's and enjoy something truly spectacular. Choose a traditional and refreshing Italian ice, "cream ice," gelati or go for a creamy and dreamy frozen custard. Make this frozen pit stop a family tradition — it will really leave you wanting more.
Pick fruit at the Dacula Briarpatch. Prices vary. 2503 Cammie Wages Road, Dacula, Ga. 30019. 770-962-4990. www.pickitfarmfresh.com.
Don't miss out on all the fruit that's in season at the end of summer. Take your kids fruit picking at the Dacula Briarpatch. Pick up your containers on site, then head out to harvest a wide selection of fruits and vegetables, including apples, corn, grapes, eggplant, onions, plums, cucumbers, peppers and more. Your little ones will just love seeing the fruit they picked in their lunch box at school.
Go roller skating. Prices vary. 1104 Grayson Highway, Lawrenceville, Ga. 30045. 770-963-0922. www.sparklesgwinnett.com.
Get your skate on at Sparkles Gwinnett. Bring your own skates along if you own a pair, or rent from a variety of options on site, including Inline, quad and speed skates. Best of all, a live DJ will take requests for your favorite songs, so get your playlist ready.
Have a pint-size spa makeover. Package prices starting at $7 per person. 2695 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, Ga. 30045. 678-688-9945. www.fairytaledreamscometrue.com.
Schedule an experience your little prince or princess will remember all year — a makeover at Once Upon a Fairy Tale. They have a wide selection of pint-size spa packages to choose from. The Fairy Tale Kids Spa package includes a mini-manicure, a mini-pedicure, eye shadow, lip gloss and a custom hair bow to keep. You might also go for the Mommy Daughter Tea, which includes eye shadow, nail polish, dressing up and having a special photo shoot.
Go horseback riding. $40 per rider. 2144 Rock Springs Road, Buford, Ga. 30519. 770-846-8765. www.silvercrownfarms.com.
Whether you're a seasoned horseback rider or you've never been on a horse before in your life, Silvercrown Farms in Buford offers an experience perfect for your whole family. The friendly horses and helpful instructors will get you all set up and ready to ride confidently. The one-hour ride will take you along the trail and around the farm. Suitable for all skill levels, no previous horse riding experience is required.
The Ultimate Atlanta School Guide lets you find inside information on every school in metro Atlanta and the rest of Georgia. Check it out here.