I arrived on the South Shore almost 12 years ago with visions of starting a new life, creating a family, and settling down in Scituate. What amazes me is how those visions have become a beautiful reality. Manifestation is a real thing! These 12 years represent so much, including my chapters of pregnancy, birth, and littles. So as my family heads on to our next chapter in central Pennsylvania, closer to my family, I share with my beloved Boston Moms community my all-time favorite local spots for kids and moms!

Favorite boutique

In Marshfield, Olivia Rose Children’s Boutique has such a beautiful collection of sought-after brands, including infant, baby, and children’s clothing. We have purchased and been gifted some fabulous seasonal outfits that have dotted our children’s youngest years with absolutely adorable looks. We have also bought christening gowns, baby shoes, and the BEST dinosaur toys ever. Sherri, the owner, also owns Once Upon A Time, the toy store adjacent to the boutique. Absolutely the best.

Favorite consignment store

I fell upon the Kid’s Closet in Pembroke relatively recently. I so badly want to put this shop in my pocket and take it with me to PA! The shop consigns quality brands in excellent condition for amazing prices. At my last visit, I stocked up on spring clothing for five children, including baby outfits, rain boots, a dance tutu, boys shorts, and dresses, all for about $100. Brands included Mini Boden, Adidas, Carters, Gap, and Gymboree. Check. It. Out. 

Favorite alternative school

If public school isn’t working for your kiddo and you live on the South Shore, check out the South Shore Charter Public School. I spent 9 of my 12 years here working at SSCPS. If there is one thing I know for sure, this school is staffed with the best teachers who genuinely want the best for each child who walks into their classroom and will go above and beyond to provide the best learning experience for each unique learning need. Working there was one of the most remarkable experiences of my teaching career.

Favorite horse farm

My daughters will so miss Cranberry Acres Equestrian in Marshfield — they know every pony by name and look forward to their weekly riding lessons. The farm is beautiful and well maintained, offering riding lessons and birthday parties year-round. My daughter wanted nothing to do with any other summer camp — yet she did a full day at Cranberry Acres last summer every day she could. The trainers are excellent and have provided lessons to my children from ages 3 and up. By far one of the best places for horse riding lessons on the South Shore.

Favorite play gym

My Gym in Norwell and Cohasset has been providing my children with active classes from ages 6 months all the way through age 7. My son is known and loved by the staff. He feels like a rockstar every time he enters the gym. We have done classes, attended and hosted many birthday parties, participated in the drop-in free play, taken advantage of parent nights out, and enjoyed their summer fun days. The ninja warrior class was my son’s favorite.

Favorite martial arts studio

From the age of 4, my son, now 8, has been training jiu-jitsu at Juniko in Hanover. When he started, I had no idea what jiu-jitsu was. I only knew I wanted him exposed to the discipline martial arts offers. It was one of the most effective parenting moves my husband and I have made. Juniko has the best married couple black-belt role models who pass on the values of respect, humility, positivity, confidence, and niceness to the children in an age-appropriate manner. Leaving this part of our life behind when we move is going to be the hardest. 

Favorite spot for new motherhood

Over the Moon Parenting is run by Margaret Breen, who used to run classes for the old Isis Parenting many years ago. I met her way back in a “how to care for newborns” class. I was having my first baby and was completely clueless. I have followed her since then because she truly understands what new parents need. I have taken part in her parenting classes, hosted birthday parties for my kids in the space, and most recently participated in the free drop-in breastfeeding group. She has managed to maintain a consistent and compassionate staff that I have built beautiful connections with. I have sent so many new moms there. Go!

Check out these wonderful locally owned places — I‘m positive they won’t disappoint!

Rachel Rich
Rachel was born and raised in central Pennsylvania. She moved to the Boston area twice. The second time she stayed for good setting up residence in Scituate. For ten years, she taught middle schoolers the fascinating history of the ancient and medieval worlds. She has an MA in Special Education and is a certified Reading Specialist as well as licensed History and ESL teacher. Even though she loved teaching she finally let go of the working mom life after having baby number four. She and her husband currently have five young children ages 8, 5, 4, 2, & 8 months. She is a homeschooling mom and freelance content writer at @rachelrichcontentwriter and rachelrichcontentwriter.com.