Staying Cool In The Summer Heat

When summer’s temps start spiking, finding your chill in and around Billings has never been easier. Whether a day at the pool is high on your list of priorities, or your jam is something more adventur...

Tales of Tails & Tenderness

Nancy Besel Belinak has a heart for those beyond the fold, the belonging-seekers. After dedicating 25 years to teaching Special Education and Gifted students, raising a family of her own, and caring f...

LOVE INC A Catalyst for Hope

Transformation: “A significant or profound change, often involving a shift in self-concept, beliefs, or behaviors, leading to a more positive and fulfilling existence.”

A Perfect Match: The Miraculous Story of a Local Kidney Transplant

At fifteen years old, Ty Nelson was trying out for the high school swim team and went to the doctor for a sports physical. Instead of the routine green light he anticipated, Ty was diagnosed with kidn...

Where Art Embraces Nature A Day Trip to Tippet Rise

In Montana, solitude is easy to find. It spills across the plains, climbs on top of
the mountains, and runs through the long expanses

From Miner to Mentor: Tommy Roberts' Inspiring Journey to Disability Advocacy.

When Tommy Roberts stood before 3,000 world leaders in Istanbul, Turkey, sharing his journey as a disability rights advocate, it was a moment he never could have imagined.

Blooming Passion The Art and Allure of Growing Dahlias

Imagine your ideal Mother's Day: a sunlit morning spent planting flowers, surrounded by your family's laughter and love of your family. The most cherished gift? Having everyone join in, their hands in...

KADEN’S COURT A story of hope in the darkness

A new local fundraising effort is underway to bring a basketball court to our city’s beloved Pioneer Park – but the story behind the court is so much bigger than basketball. It is a story of tragedy a...

From Athlete to Leader Anna Vanderwende's Special Olympics Story

This May, the Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games return to Billings, bringing together over 1,000 athletes from statewide. For these athletes, Special Olympics is more than just competition;...

Breaking the Barrier to Outdoor Adventure

Montana proudly boasts the fact that it is considered one of the top adventure destinations in the country, and while many residents partake in the plethora of activities that Big Sky Country offers,...

CO+LAB opens at Billings Library

In a world where the click of a smartphone button can bring a doorstep delivery within
hours, making things for yourself has become something of a lost art.

Passion in Action | The People Powering Special Olympics Montana

In May, Billings will welcome the Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games again, bringing over 1,000 athletes and their families to the city.

Let's Go Outside

1,000 hours outside a year? For most parents, this sounds like an impossible feat, but it’s the ultimate dream come true for kids. The idea of swapping hours on screens for adventures in the great out...

2025 Camp Guide | Dance, Music, & Theater

Let the creative juices flow with these dance, music, and theater camps!

2025 Camp Guide | Arts & Crafts

Unleash your kiddo's inner artist this summer with these arts & crafts camps!

2025 Camp Guide | Sports & Fitness

Get your kiddos moving this summer with a wide variety of sports and fitness camps!

2025 Camp Guide | Outdoors & Nature

Camps that allow your child/teen exceptional outdoor exploration!

2025 Camp Guide | Faith Based

Faith-based camp options for all ages (from the littles to the bigs!)

2025 Camp Guide | Special Needs

Camps specifically for children with special needs.

2025 Camp Guide | Academic

Let your child's curiosity run wild this summer!

2025 Camp Guide | General

Register early for your classic summer camp experiences!

2025 Camp Guide | Swimming

From swim birthday parties to swim lessons, let your little fishies loose in the water this summer!

2025 Summer Camps & Activities Guide

While we welcome spring, don’t miss the ultimate guide for summer planning- our 2025 Summer Camps & Activities Guide.

Navigating Kids' big emotions from tantrums to triumph

An old saying suggests, “Your perception is your reality.” This rings especially true for children with limited life experience and narrow worldviews.

Partnering with Teachers

Education is most kids’ first “job.” They report to class, complete tasks, and are evaluated on outcomes.

Exploring Paleontology & Natural History with Elevation Science

If you had asked 12-year-old me what I wanted to be when I grew up, the immediate answer would’ve been a paleontologist. I have always been fascinated by the gigantic, awe-inspiring creatures that onc...

2025 Early Childhood Guide

Explore our 2025 Early Childhood Guide, your ultimate resource for finding the best preschools, programs, and early learning opportunities around town to give your child a great start!

Ways to Play on a Winter’s Day

With Christmas and New Year’s behind us, the long stretch of winter can feel daunting. It’s easy to slip into a routine of cozying up indoors, longing for the sun-soaked days of summer. But Montana wi...

Culture, Connection, and Community Lisa Hawley and the Heart of 406 Native Roots

When you step into 406 Native Roots, you’re welcomed by a tangible warmth and authenticity. The store is more than just a shop; it’s a vibrant cultural haven, a support hub, and a bridge between commu...

Rise and Play: How Morning Baskets Make Screen-Free Mornings Simple

Every parent knows the morning rush: the scramble to get everyone dressed, fed, and out the door on time. During this hustle and bustle, it's tempting to turn on the TV, hand over a tablet, or let you...

Deck the Halls with Holiday Cards

The holiday card season brings with it a sense of excitement, nostalgia, and warmth. One cherished tradition that often shines brightly during this time is the exchange of Christmas cards.

A Haven of Hope Care for women, one journey at a time

We love them both,” says LaVie CEO Cindy Nordstog, who refers to pregnant moms seeking services and their unborn babies. LaVie Health stands boldly in the heart of downtown Billings as a beacon of hop...

Holiday Nights Comes Alive with Music

Take a moment to imagine classic lyrics from the beloved Christmas song, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” by Andy Williams; let it come to life in vivid detail:
“With the kids jingle-bellin...

Lacrosse Takes Billings by Storm: A Growing Passion for the Fastest Game on Two Feet

They call it “the fastest game on two feet.” A sport that was once only popular on the East Coast has grown in the last several years to become a favorite in the West, particularly in Billings.

Raising Generous Hearts

What’s the best gift you can give your child this Christmas? The gift of GIVING! The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and cherished family traditions. But beyond the presents and festivit...

Thrift Store Finds: A great way to renew your closet.

Ah, thrift stores, either you love them, or you avoid them at all costs. If you happen to love them, read on to learn some tips and tricks to enhance your experiences scouring racks and shelves for hi...

Kids in Construction COP Construction & Build Montana Bring Kids Back to the Trades

In Montana, construction is one of our long-running jokes: Montana has two seasons: winter and road construction. Jokes aside, the construction industry is critical to developing everything around us...

Falling for Fun: Billings' Ultimate Family Scavenger Hunt

One fun way to embrace the magical fall season is by embarking on a Fall Scavenger Hunt to some of the most iconic and charming spots in and around Billings.

Hope for Healing - Hannah House Expansion Supports More Women in Billings

The grips of addiction are ruthless - and merciless. Promise was 24 when she hit rock bottom; she was pregnant, addicted to drugs, and “barely existing.” During this time, she witnessed a murder that...

The Artistic Journey of Mural Mamas'

Mommy’s job is painting, and daddy’s job is working,” says four-year-old Daisy, daughter of Kaitlyn Plenger and big sister to Harper.

Exploring Music for All Ages with the Billings Symphony

As Italian composer Gioachino Rossini stated in the early 1800s, this sentiment still rings true today – the universality of music spans generations, bringing joy to the young and young at heart.

Fighting Tech Addiction in Schools

The permeation of technology today is undeniable. We carry it around, wear it on our bodies, and build our days around it. Smartphones provide access to many amazing things and create opportunities fo...

Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis with Comprehensive Care

Our nation's youth are in a mental health crisis. In October 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), and the Children's Hospita...

Five Day-Trips to Bid Farewell to Summer

The end of summer is always bittersweet. While we look forward to cooling temps, fall colors, and the return of routine, letting go of the longer days, warm sun, time with our kids, and the endless fe...

Back to School in LOCAL Style

As summer winds down and the days grow shorter, the excitement of a new school year begins to buzz. Whether you're prepping your kids for their first day back or gearing up for a fresh start yourself,...

Pearls of Wisdom from the Diamond

It’s July, and though Little League has mostly wrapped up for the summer, America’s favorite pastime is still in full swing.

High School Home Run

The love of the game drives us to play hard and cheer loudly. And if our kids are on the field, there’s little we won’t do to support their devotion to the game.

Garden Maintenace 101 get the kids involved

Summer is just starting, and many days of play, adventure, and vacation are on the horizon. The air is (mostly) warm, and the garden is coming alive!

2024 Simply Amazing Teen: Keatin Hertz

Our 2024 Simply Amazing Teen has big dreams, and his work ethic and level-headed determination will no doubt see his dreams take flight.

The Voice of 2024 Special Olympics Montana Summer Games

Jeremiah Yates is an 18-year-old senior at West High who dreams of being a broadcaster. This year, he’ll have an opportunity to truly test his skills. Billings is set to host to the 2024 Special Olymp...

Love and SONshine Ministries: Giving Hope to Teen Moms

Love and SONshine Ministries is dedicated to providing homeless teen moms a safe place to call home, as they navigate their newfound life in motherhood. Sisters Heather Petty and Heidi Williams knew t...

Accident Checklist for Teens

We’ve created a simple checklist to print out and stick in the glove compartment as a reference in case of an accident. While we hope you never have to refer to this list, it can provide a sense of ca...

Water Wisdom: Safeguarding Lives at Every Depth

It's important that we respect water’s place in our lives, and we’ve got to be proactive in keeping ourselves and our people safe in and around it. To help us do that, we chatted with Jake Hover, a Sw...

Critical Conversations: Deepening Emotional Bonds with Your Spouse

A thriving marriage stands on connectedness. Let’s dive into what it looks like to establish and nurture emotional intimacy with your spouse, and why it’s such a vital piece of the puzzle.

Volunteer with Special Olympics

Here are a couple of ways to link arms with Special Olympics. It’s possible that volunteering will impact an athlete’s life, but it’s nearly guaranteed to change yours.

Empowering Families through Family Tree Nurturing Center

For almost 40 years, Family Tree Nurturing Center has been steadily working toward the prevention of child abuse and neglect in our community. Little do some know that the annual Festival of Trees fun...

Digital Detox: How Unplugging Benefits Your Health

In recognition of the National Day of Unplugging on March 1, discover the benefits of taking a break from screen time and how to break free from technology during a digital detox.

Reading Intervention for At-Risk Students

Reading is one of the most foundational skills for all children, and Billings Public Schools is working hard to adjust courses and support more students in their quest for literacy.

2024 Summer Camps & Activities Guide

While we welcome spring, don’t miss the ultimate guide for summer planning- our 2024 Summer Camps & Activities Guide.

2024 Camp Guide | General

Register early for your classic summer camp experiences!

2024 Camp Guide | Academic

Let your child's curiosity run wild this summer!

2024 Camp Guide | Special Needs

Camps specifically for children with special needs.

2024 Camp Guide | Swimming

From swim birthday parties to swim lessons, let your little fishies loose in the water this summer!

2024 Camp Guide | Dance, Music, & Theater

Let the creative juices flow with these dance, music, and theater camps!

2024 Camp Guide | Sports & Fitness

Get your kiddos moving this summer with a wide variety of sports and fitness camps!

2024 Camp Guide | Arts & Crafts

Unleash your kiddo's inner artist this summer with these arts & crafts camps!

2024 Camp Guide | Outdoors & Nature

Camps that allow your child/teen exceptional outdoor exploration!

2024 Camp Guide | Faith Based

Faith-based camp options for all ages (from the littles to the bigs!)

Lessons From the Neighborhood: Look For the Helpers

In this article, the words of Mr. Rogers come to life in a scary experience for one Billings family. Hear how the selfless action of one anonymous Good Samaritan made all the difference for a teenage...

Special Olympics Initiative Changing the Landscape of Billings Schools

Special Olympics newest Initiative, Unified Champion Schools®, is changing the landscape of schools by bringing together students with and without intellectual disabilities to create inclusive school...

Creating a Healthier Community: RiverStone Health WIC

Sure, you’ve heard of WIC, but do you understand what it is, who it serves, and how it benefits our community? We chatted with Kate Monger, MPH, RDN, the WIC and Family Health Services Program Manager...

2024 Early Education Guide

Simply Local's 2024 Early Education Childhood Directory.

From Victim to Advocate: Janisha's New Beginning

If you were to pick a meth addict/trafficking survivor out of a lineup, you probably wouldn’t choose Janisha. She was raised in a middle-class family in Billings and graduated from Senior High. Howeve...

Innovating Pediatric Care: Montana Pediatrics Paves the Way for After-Hours Access

One non-profit is transforming healthcare by addressing limited access on nights and weekends, tackling the shortage of pediatric specialists in rural areas, and countering the threat of out-of-state...

All is Calm: The In-Between of Christmas & New Year’s

In the in-between of Christmas and New Year’s, when the kids are still on break and we don’t really know what day it is, we can find the calm and enjoy real face time with each other. Come along as we...

Bringing Christmas to Billings from The Philippines

Filippino friends, Lovely, Mercy, Rea, and Glenda reminisce about their shared childhood holiday traditions. Check out the link to read.

Create This: Miniature Parols

Bring a tradition from the Phillipines to your home with a DIY miniature parol ornament.

The Stockings Were Hung: Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

The timeless tradition of hanging stockings by the mantle and waking to find them filled with trinkets, candies, and toys comes from a folkloric tale rooted in joyful giving, and every year the custom...

2023 Santa Sightings

There are ever-growing options for tracking Santa’s magical journey on Christmas Eve, but what about finding him for those special, ahead-of-Christmas encounters?

The Art of Appreciation

Having an attitude of gratitude is grand, but let’s also develop the art of appreciation.

Keeping it Local: Billings Boasts the Hottest Gifts this Season

Shopping for our kids can be tricky. Keep it simple this year! Whittle your list down to things your kids want, need, wear and read. Then, shop local. Check out the hottest gifts we found around town!

Giving Back by Fostering: One Family’s Story

I asked the Seymours what they would like prospective foster parents to know before they enter the world of loving these children. Here is their list.

The Power of CASA Advocates: Transforming the Lives of Children in Foster Care

A firsthand account of CASA's impact, this is Jess's story.

The Teal Pumpkin Project: Making Halloween Safe for All

For parents with children with food allergies, Halloween and trick-or-treating can be especially stressful and downright scary (in a not-fun way). How can you be a good neighbor this Halloween? Come...

Transforming Billings: How the Parks and Recreation Bond Will Shape the City

Discover the profound impact of Billings' Parks and Recreation Bond! From revitalizing parks to a new community recreation center, this investment promises a safer, healthier, and more vibrant Billing...

What’s Your Parenting Style?

Researchers have identified four main parenting styles. These styles often develop without much awareness on our end - often due to the way we were raised.

We’re All Aging, How to Do it Well

Comedian George Burns once said, "You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” Now read that again, only this time imagine Frank Sinatra is crooning Young at Heart in the background,...

Senior Center Keeps Billings Young

The Billings Community & Senior Center is on a mission to promote independent and healthy lifestyles for seniors, helping them age gracefully in place. From fitness classes and card games to book club...

Positive Outlook, Difficult Situations: Youth Peer Pressure

Kids begin experiencing peer pressure from an early age, but a local expert shares her experience with adolescents changing the trend. A growing respect for different value sets and boundaries means t...

Building a Better Billings: Parks, Recreation, and a Safer Community

Exciting Times Ahead for Billings! November's bringing a game-changing opportunity for our city. The Parks and Recreation bond aims to transform our community with enhanced recreational options, upgra...

Welcome to Billings: Dr. Erwin Garcia Takes the Helm of School District 2

Erwin Garcia made a huge move this summer along with his family; his wife of 16 years and their two elementary-aged boys shifted from Houston to put down roots in Billings. Dr. Garcia took over offici...

A Love Letter to Teachers: Teacher Appreciation All Year Long

Dear Teachers: This is us wishing you a school year filled with growth, grace, and learning. May your students be sparkling sponges of learning readiness, your administrators offer the support you nee...

Fueling for Youth Sports

Let’s talk about some ways to support the efforts of our young athletes. Even if they are not registered for a sport, these tips can help your enthusiastic biker, runner, skier, skateboarder, scooter-...

Protecting Our Digital Generation: Essential Phone & Internet Safety Tips for Kids

Like most things in the parenthood, adding technology into our kids' lives is not a one-and-done conversation. Parents give their kids devices that can access Pandora's box of material, which requires...

Grit & Glory: Inside the Thrilling World of Montana Youth Rodeo

The sport of youth rodeo has consistently been enjoyed in our great state with no slowdown in sight. Although it requires an extensive commitment (from both two-legged and four-legged competitors), th...

Head, Heart, Hands, and Health in 4-H

4-H brings the head, heart, hands and health into focus for kids of all ages, reaching beyond farming and ranching to projects rooted in science, art, and more. Check out why families of all kinds are...

Redefining Independence at Special K Ranch

Nestled in the beauty of the in-between of Park City and Columbus, tucked off the main road, is a unique, little working ranch that began its operation in 1987. SLM recently had a chance to tour Speci...

Seasons of Fatherhood

Have you ever pondered your current role as a dad or how it will change as your kids get older? Most dads rarely have the time to stop and think about the future. Often, it’s easy to get caught up in...

Hometown Medical School: A Local’s Perspective

When Riley was seven, he learned one of life's hardest lessons, that life is fragile. This lesson came in the form of stage three cancer found in his dad. As Riley's dad's medical team stretched his l...

Time Off Well-Spent: Using Summer Break for College Prep

Summer is a great time to round out your college applications with some intentional activities. Check out our expert's ideas for spending time on things that will help your application stand out!