In the heart of Rockville, Maryland, a new haven for pets and families has emerged. Pet Wants, a pet store offering fresh, high-quality dog food and treats, invites pet owners to explore its offerings in a welcoming environment. Meanwhile, local venues are providing parents with much-needed breaks through various Kids' Nights Out programs, catering to different age groups and interests.

A Fresh Start for Pet Enthusiasts and Parents Alike

Since opening its doors in April 2024, Pet Wants has quickly become a beloved destination for pet owners in Rockville. Located in King Farm, the store offers an inviting space where dogs can roam freely and sniff around to discover their favorite treats. Anita Terzic-Kostadinova, co-owner of the franchise, emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable atmosphere for both pets and humans. Her journey with Pet Wants began at farmers markets, where she and her husband, Peter Kostadinov, developed a loyal following by selling dog food that catered to their own Shiba Inus' dietary needs. The couple's dedication to quality and care has now translated into a thriving business.

The store specializes in small-batch, freshly made dog food free from common allergens like soy, corn, and wheat. Customers can also find dehydrated chicken jerky, freeze-dried beef liver, collagen braids, and other unique treats. For those looking to pamper their pets further, holistic skin care products and homemade pumpkin-cranberry biscuits are available. Free delivery is offered within Montgomery County for orders over $29.

Kids' Nights Out: Fun and Relief for Families

Parents seeking a break need not worry about finding reliable childcare. Several venues in Rockville offer engaging Kids' Nights Out, ensuring children have fun while giving parents some well-deserved downtime. The Tot Space, located on Rockville Pike, hosts monthly Parents' Night Out events for toddlers aged 3-6. These sessions include arts and crafts, music, story time, and themed activities like Kidchella and Pumpkin Patch Palooza. Each event runs from 6-9 p.m., with pizza and snacks included in the $69 fee.

For elementary schoolers, Kids After Hours organizes monthly events featuring movies, dance parties, gym games, and tabletop games. Held at various schools across the county, these sessions cost $25 per child and run from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Older kids, particularly tweens, can enjoy laser tag, glow-in-the-dark kickball, and DJ dance parties at Montgomery County Recreation’s Club Friday. Registration for the season costs between $60-$95, with multiple community centers participating.

Families with mixed-age siblings can take advantage of My Gym’s Parents' Night Out in Potomac. This monthly event includes supervised games, a ball pit, trampoline, rock climbing wall, and themed nights like ninja night or pajama party. Artistic children can indulge their creativity at Amazing Art Studio in Gaithersburg, where they can paint ceramics and watch family-friendly movies during bi-monthly Kids' Night Out events.

An Inspiring Voice for Modern Parents

Amidst the bustling activity of parenting, Sharon Mazel stands out as a beacon of support and wisdom. Based in Silver Spring, Mazel shares evidence-based parenting advice through her Instagram account, @sharonmazel, which boasts nearly 300,000 followers. Her posts range from practical tips on baby care to lighthearted reminders about the challenges of parenthood. Mazel’s approachable style and compassionate messages resonate deeply with her audience, making her a trusted guide for many.

Mazel’s influence extends beyond social media. She has authored a book titled "Bite-Sized Parenting" and frequently speaks at local events, offering valuable insights to overwhelmed parents. Her mission is to provide easily digestible information that empowers parents to navigate the complexities of raising children in today's digital age.

These initiatives in Rockville and surrounding areas highlight the community's commitment to supporting both pets and families. Whether it's finding the perfect treat for your furry friend or enjoying a night out with your kids, there's something for everyone in this vibrant area.