One of the nicest things about living in the Lowcountry is our year-round access to fresh, organic vegetables. Have you ever tried a smooth, savory winter squash soup? How about roasted brussel sprouts or braised leeks and collard greens?

Before your ghosts and goblins suit up for a night of trick-or-treating, here are some ways to keep your little ones safe this Halloween:

The 7th annual Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival will be held from Oct. 16-23 in the charming and eclectic historic district of Bluffton, well known for its quirky art community and natural beauty.

The festival is a week-long event offering myriad activities showcasing locally harvested seafood, Lowcountry cuisine, the culture and art of the area and its Southern hospitality. The highlight of the festival is Street Fest, which includes a juried fine art show featuring more than 90 artists from 10 different states displaying and selling their art.

There’s plenty of spook-tacular fun around the Lowcountry this Halloween. Here are some local events:

Haunted Library

When/Where: 7-9 p.m. Oct. 21 at the Lobeco Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, Lobeco
Info: Appropraite for all ages, 7-9 p.m., Lobeco library
Cost: Free
Contact: 843-255-6479 

In the world of childcare, there are many challenges we face as children progress happily through their different phases in development. The most challenging of these is the biting phase! Biting is something that cannot be tolerated and causes harm to others – which is why parents and caregivers need to draw the line. It’s a common problem for our little ones due to teething and a general expression of frustration, anger or excitement when they are not yet able to communicate. But it’s a problem that we do not tolerate at Kids College and should not be tolerated in any childcare environment – in a center, in your home or otherwise.

When you’re pregnant, you register for all of the supplies your new baby will need.

Crib. Check.

Diapers. Check.

Blankets. Check.

Formula. Check.

But what about after the baby is born, when mom and dad are ready to return to work? Have you thought about childcare? Who will you entrust your child with for the 8-plus hours while you’re at work?

Finding the right childcare facility is not as absolute as picking out a new stroller. Believe me, I know.