Hi Friend,

Well, here we are again...staring down another weekend wondering how to keep our little ones entertained without losing our sanity (or our wallets).

The good news? This week is absolutely packed with Halloween magic and fall festivities that'll have your kids talking about it until next October.

The even better news? I've done all the research so you don't have to scroll through seventeen different Facebook groups at 11 PM wondering what's actually worth your time.

🌱 What We’re Doing

Your roundup of family-friendly events and activities happening this week.

There's just something magical about Charlotte in late October. Maybe it's the sugar rush from sneaking Halloween candy, maybe it's that perfect crisp air that makes you want to live in hoodies forever, or maybe it's watching toddlers insist on wearing their Batman costume to Target for the third day straight (grocery store superheroes, you're doing amazing).

Here’s what’s sparking joy for tiny adventurers and their delightfully exhausted grownups this week:

• Candy Crawl & Monster Market at Urban District Market (Fri, Oct 31, 5–9 p.m., Free)
  Stroller-friendly indoor/outdoor trick-or-treating with live music and local vendors. Easy parking and flexible timing means this is great for toddlers.

• Crossroads Cinema @ Camp North End: Hocus Pocus (Thu, Oct 30, 8 p.m., Free)
  Bring blankets and snacks for a cozy outdoor movie. Catch the first half and head out at bedtime! No FOMO required.

• Learning for Littles Story Time @ Daniel Stowe Conservancy Trailhead Store (Wed, Nov 5, 9–9:45 a.m., Free)
  Nature-themed stories, puppets, and gentle activities. Relaxed pace, stroller-optional, perfect pre-nap outing.

        See our full guide with 7 other hand-picked events for your family

🌳 Where We’re Playing

Your featured park, playground, or indoor play spot.

I learned the hard way that not all Matthews parks are created equal, especially with a toddler in tow.

Quick Plan

• Best For: A guaranteed toddler-friendly playground (Squirrel Lake) vs. a quieter spot for older kids (Matthews-Sardis).
• Parking: One is a breeze, the other is famously tight.
• Stroller-Friendly? Yes, but one has more rugged terrain.
• Bathrooms: Both have them, but location and quality differ.

Do + See

• Squirrel Lake: A separate toddler play structure, balance beams, and a path down to the lake.
• Matthews-Sardis: A playground best for K-5, shady spots, and a quiet trail.

My Take

Matthews-Sardis was a miss for Jamie, but Squirrel Lake was a total win, despite the wood chips and crowds.

Pro Tips

• Check the ground cover - wood chips can be tough for new walkers.
• Have a backup plan if one park feels too busy for your sanity.

Want the full breakdown: age fit, my honest verdict, and why I almost lost my mind that day?

Read the full review at my blog.

🍪 What We’re Eating

Your kid-friendly restaurant, bakery, or café of the week.

Sometimes, all you want is a giant bowl of queso, a margarita the size of your head, and a place where nobody will notice if your toddler starts singing an off-key song about a truck. For those moments, there’s Superica. It’s the delicious, energetic Tex-Mex spot that says, "Yes, your chaos is welcome here."

But before you pile everyone into the car, we've put together a little cheat sheet. Inside, you’ll find:

• The best times to go to either of their 2 Charlotte locations to avoid a meltdown-inducing wait.
• Our go-to kid-friendly orders that aren't just from the kids' menu.
• A parent’s guide to parking, patios, and snagging the best table for your crew.

We’ve done the reconnaissance work so you can focus on the important stuff, like stealing your kid’s rice and beans when they’re not looking.

🌮 Read the full review

💡 What We’re Learning

A quick tip, insight, or reflection from a local expert or parent.

 The Art of Halloween Candy Negotiations 🍬

Here's the thing about Halloween candy: your kids will collect enough sugar to power a small city, and you'll spend the next month mediating disputes that would challenge the United Nations.

This week's tip comes directly from Jamie's Nana (hi mom!). Try the "Candy Bank" approach - let them eat a reasonable amount on Halloween night (because tradition), then "deposit" the rest in the candy bank. They can "withdraw" one piece after lunch and one after dinner. It's not perfect, but it beats finding chocolate smeared on your couch cushions at 7 AM.

And yes, the parent tax is real and necessary. We're basically candy quality control officers.

📅 What We’re Looking Forward To 

Sunday, December 7th, 2025

Is there anything better than an event where you don't even have to get the kids dressed? This cozy, come-as-you-are community walk is all about inclusive fun at a pace that works for everyone. Yes, you can (and should!) wear your PJs.

Expect:

• A simple walking route that’s perfect for strollers, wagons, and little legs.
• Lots of team spirit, with music and easy crafts for kids along the way.
• Casual photo opportunities to capture the morning’s fun.
• A low-key, friendly atmosphere where everyone is welcome.

Why it’s great for our kids:

• It offers a sensory-friendly, low-pressure way for kids to join in.
• The morning timing works well with nap schedules and daily routines.
• It's a celebration of comfort and community, which feels just right for little ones.

Tip for us:
Layer those PJs! A hoodie or a zip-up over their favorite jammies is perfect for a crisp morning. Make sure you wear comfy shoes, and don't forget the essentials: snacks, water, and maybe a favorite lovey to make the walk feel extra secure for the smallest walkers.

Want more Charlotte family adventures and survival tips delivered straight to your inbox? I've got restaurant reviews, playground intel, and parenting wisdom (okay, educated guesses) waiting for you.

Until next week, may your coffee be strong and your tantrums be short!

See you next Thursday,
💚 Emily
Founder, The Charlotte Sprout

P.S. If you try any of these spots, tag us on Instagram @charlottesprout! I love seeing your family adventures (and secretly judge how much better your kids behave in public than mine does).

Help The Sprout grow. If one idea made your week easier, please forward this email or tag @thecharlottesprout so more Charlotte parents can find us. 🌱