Happy Tuesday, Peekaboo fam!

August is winding down and everyone is settling into rhythms. Let’s close out back-to-school season with some reminiscing, some last-minute advice, and some great events happening this week in NWA!

  • For Emma there’s no home like Rogers, AR.

  • NWA Gift Guide has back-to-school items you might have missed!

  • Connect with a lifelong doctor in our community spotlight.

...and more! Let's dive in.

— The Peekaboo Team

Today’s newsletter is sponsored by People of Northwest Arkansas, the award winning podcast celebrating the people and stories of NWA. Listen on all major podcast platforms. 🎧

Feature Story

The Place That Raised Me

Photos provided by Emma Slone

What does it mean to truly feel at home?

For Emma Slone, it means knowing the trails by heart, remembering the places that shaped her childhood, and watching her own children discover those same corners of Northwest Arkansas.

In this month’s feature, Emma takes us on a deeply personal tour of the Rogers and NWA that raised her: from Lakeview Drive and Lake Atalanta to Downtown Rogers, childhood haunts, family traditions, and the small businesses that have become part of her story.

Emma reflects on what happens when a place changes alongside you and how a community can grow without losing the feeling that made it home in the first place.

For longtime NWA families, you may recognize a few places of your own. For newcomers, it’s a beautiful glimpse into the roots, memories, and people that make this corner of the Ozarks feel like home.

Peekaboo Picks

More From The Issue

Pictures Courtesy of NWAGiftGuide, State, and Target

📕Forget anything? Maybe take one last look! After a week or two of school, it’s time to make sure you have everything fro the long haul! NWA Gift Guide has splurges, steals, and the perfect gift for your favorite teacher! Read More

📕 Getting the Perfect Photo They have a brand new outfit, a new haircut, the chalkboard, and your doorstep is looking immaculate. Here’s one more thing you might add to get the perfect back-to-school photo, brought to you by Everhope Children’s Shelter. Read More

📕 A Lifetime of Care We’re spotlighting an Dr. Katie McNiel! She’s an incredible pediatric doctor who works with people of all ages, allowing her to care for the whole family. Read More

Business Spotlight

Preschool That Fits Your Family's Schedule

At Ivybrook Academy, preschool doesn't have to mean an all-day commitment. Their half-day programs let you build a schedule that actually fits your family, whether that means more one-on-one time at home or room for a second activity later in the day.

Inside the classroom, kids get a Montessori and Reggio Emilia-inspired approach with an individualized curriculum and low student-to-teacher ratios, so every child gets seen, not just supervised. It's educator-founded, student-focused, and built around the kid actually in the room.

Curious what a morning (or afternoon) at Ivybrook looks like? Schedule a private tour and see for yourself.

A Peek At The Week

Family Friendly Events in NWA

Photos courtesy of Washington Co. Fair

Washington County Fair - August 25–29 | Washington Co. Fairgrounds, Fayetteville. Experience classic fair traditions with exhibits, entertainment, and family fun.

Coins & Currency: Museum at the Library - August 25 | 3:30–5:30PM | Fayetteville Public Library. University museum staff will highlight currency from across time and around the world.

Tiny Art Show: America 250 - August 27 | 3:30–5:30PM | Pea Ridge Public Library. Celebrate creativity by viewing tiny artworks inspired by American history.

Parents' Night Out at Jones Center - August 28 | 6–9PM | Jones Center, Springdale. Kids enjoy games, crafts, and a movie with caring supervision.

Bentonville Kids Rave - August 29 | 5–8PM | Lawrence Plaza, Bentonville. Dance, splash, and enjoy music, face painting, and family activities.

Thanks for reading! Can’t wait to share more with you next week.

Keep an eye out around town for our print editions and tune in each week for story snapshots.