Hello and welcome to Grow Up In Southwest Florida—your go-to guide for raising a family in this beautiful region. Since becoming a full-time resident of Naples in 2019, I’ve experienced firsthand the beauty of the beaches, the warmth of the community, and the joy of raising a family here. Like many transplants, I originally came for the beach (and a boy), but as we settled into family life, I found myself, like many busy and tired parents, struggling to find the right activities and community connections for my growing family.

With a career in the technology and software world, I wanted to find a practical solution to this problem for myself and other parents. That’s how Grow Up In Southwest Florida was born—a resource to help families, both locals and visitors, navigate everything this area has to offer. From family-friendly beaches and parks to holiday events and hidden gems around town, my goal is to make life easier for parents and create a stronger sense of community.

Grow Up In Southwest Florida is more than just a list of things to do. It’s a place where families can come together, share experiences, and discover new ways to engage with their city while raising kind, balanced kids. Whether you’re new to the area or have been here for years, I hope this site becomes your trusted companion as you explore and enjoy all the wonderful things our region has to offer.