What is ParentsConnect.com?

ParentsConnect.com is a parenting Web site from the same folks who bring you Noggin, Nick Jr., Nickelodeon, Nick@Nite and The N. We're here for parents with kids of all ages: preconception through pregnancy, and baby through teen.

Our motto is: We're not perfect, we're parents. And we mean it! So while we might not have all the answers, we can try to support you and help make your life a little easier. We provide parents with daily tips, recipes, activities, product recommendations and expert (but nonjudgmental!) parenting info, baby names and their meanings, local family-friendly resources and a large, vibrant community. We also want you to share your parenting expertise by submitting your own tips, local activities, crafts, recipes, photos, war stories, comments and ratings to our site.


What are the Parents' Picks Awards?

The Parents' Picks Awards is an exciting program that Nickelodeon's ParentsConnect started this year. Real parents (like you) get to vote on the best family-friendly resources in your community--everything from Best Dentists and Best Family Restaurants to Best Playgrounds and Parks--in 52 cities across the US.


Do you have to register to vote?

Yes. It's a legal thing. You get one vote per category, per age group, per city from your email address. But you can vote in more than one category/age group/city if you want. The more votes, the merrier!


How are the nominees selected?

The Parents' Picks nominees are selected by the ParentsConnect Local City Editors.


What criteria were used for picking nominees?

There are many reasons why a place might stand out to a ParentsConnect Local City Editor.

Sometimes, it's a commitment to quality, selection or service. Or maybe the business does that extra special something that helps lighten the load for today's busy parents. Often, it's because of a consistent reputation that has been upheld over many years. We also check to see what local parents and patrons think by perusing the comments on our site.

And in case you were wondering, the choices are not related to, or influenced by, advertising or partner relationships.


Who decides the winners?

Parents like you!

From May 19, 2008 to June 30, 2008, parents are invited to vote for one nominee per category, per age group, per city. In addition, there are three write-in categories where parents can nominate their own favorite picks.

Users may vote in as few or as many categories/age groups as they'd like in their own city, as well as other cities.


How many times can I vote?

You can only vote once per category, per age group, per city. But go ahead and vote in another city if you'd like.


When will the winners be announced?

The 2008 Parents' Picks winners will be announced July 15, 2008.


What are the 2008 Parents' Picks categories?

We want you to tell us the best: Playground/Park, Museum, Indoor Party/Play Space, Artsy Classes, Library, Family-Friendly Restaurant, Place to do Community Service, Shoe Store, Kids' Clothing Store (on a budget), Haircutter, Family Bonding Space, Day Camp, Enviro-friendly Place, Tutoring, College Prep, Dentist, and Place for a Great Parents' Night Out.


Can I nominate a place that's not on the list?

You can nominate your favorites in the write-in categories in any of the age groups. The write-in categories are:

- Enviro-friendly Place
- Parents' Night Out
- Dentist


How often are the lists updated?

Parents' Picks is an annual program, therefore the 2008 nominees and winners will not change until 2009. If any nominated businesses should close or change significantly during the year, we will review and update the pages accordingly on our site.


I'm a nominee. Where can I find more details?

Nominees are encouraged to visit our Nominee Resource Center at ParentsConnect.com/ParentsPicks which provides free downloadable logos and suggestions for publicizing your selection as one of your city's best. The more you publicize your nomination, the better chance you have to win!


When will voting begin for Parents' Picks 2009?

The voting for Parents' Picks 2009 will begin in the spring of 2009. Stay tuned for more details.


How can I get my business - or a business I admire -- listed on ParentsConnect Local?

Check our FAQs, then go to our Submit an Attraction page and send in your suggestion. It's totally easy (and free!).


Can I pay to get listed as a Parents' Pick?

Nope. The Parents' Picks Awards are subject to editorial discretion only. But you can pay to advertise on our site. Feel free to Contact Us and let us know that you're interested in buying ad space on our site.


Do I have to vote to enter the Parents' Picks Awards Sweepstakes?

No. (But we'd love you to!) You can enter the Parents' Picks Awards Sweepstakes once daily until the voting period is closed. See the official rules for more details. Good luck!