Avery Cotton

2 days ago | wfla.com | Avery Cotton

PASCO COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — Tucked away inside Crews Lake Wilderness Park is a hidden gem where trains may be small, but the experience leaves a big impression. The Central Pasco & Gulf Railroad is a fully volunteer-run miniature railway that offers free rides to the public on the second weekend of every month. With more than two miles of track and a fleet of colorful locomotives — including fan-favorite blue, red, and yellow engines — it’s a place where history and childhood joy ride side by side.

1 week ago | wfla.com | Avery Cotton

LAKELAND, Fla. — Nestled along South Florida Avenue, Kid Cafe is redefining family-friendly spaces in Lakeland. Part cozy coffee shop, part indoor play haven, it’s a dream come true for parents and their little ones. Katie Clements, a mother of two and U.S. Navy veteran, couldn’t find a safe, engaging space for her young children. So, she created one. “I wanted a place where they could see the entire building,” Clements said. “There’s actually a camera where you can see into the playroom.”Her vision?

4 weeks ago | wfla.com | Avery Cotton

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — There’s a new magical spot in St. Petersburg where stories come to life and young imaginations are set free. Welcome to The Story Garden, the city’s first children’s-only bookstore, nestled in a charming, cozy bungalow on 14th Street North. Opened in March by Megan Kotsko, a mom and former teacher, the Story Garden was born from her love of storytelling—and her desire to create a space where kids feel welcomed, inspired, and excited about reading.

4 weeks ago | yahoo.com | Avery Cotton

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — There’s a new magical spot in St. Petersburg where stories come to life and young imaginations are set free. Welcome to The Story Garden, the city’s first children’s-only bookstore, nestled in a charming, cozy bungalow on 14th Street North. Opened in March by Megan Kotsko, a mom and former teacher, the Story Garden was born from her love of storytelling—and her desire to create a space where kids feel welcomed, inspired, and excited about reading.

1 month ago | wfla.com | Avery Cotton

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — At just two years old, Lana Michel has already overcome a battle most adults can’t imagine, and now, she’s being celebrated as a symbol of resilience and hope. Diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia just months after her first birthday, Lana faced an intense medical journey that included multiple rounds of chemotherapy and even spending Christmas in the hospital.