Princessing during a pandemic: Local princesses provide free virtual storytelling sessions for kids

Being a princess is hard – especially during a pandemic!

But being a kid during a pandemic isn't easy either.

Many parents have shared common stories of struggling with finding ways to provide engaging, entertaining and educational activities for their children, especially with schools going virtual and daily outdoor activities minimized.

Cassidy Nolde, the owner of Family Fun Princesses said she's heavily inspired by Mr. Rogers and wants to impact the next generation in much the same way he did.

"My dream is to spread magic to all and inspire people to love themselves and others. We strive to be a positive influence on children through these characters as well, much like Mr. Rogers did," she said.

Since the pandemic began, Nolde's business, like many other locally-owned companies, has been impacted by the COVID-19 economic strain. Many birthday parties and events were canceled.

But inspired to help children during this nightmarish time, Nolde has summoned the princesses to help combat fear and anxiety through offering magical stories to empower, educate and inspire kids.

"We've been doing free story times since the pandemic started," said Nolde. "We hope to inspire others to strive to achieve their dreams regardless of the circumstances."

Even if those circumstances are a pandemic, her princesses can still spread courage and hope – and kids can, too.