Submitted by Linda DiProperzio on
Summer is right around the corner (hooray!), which means it’s time to think about camp for the kids. Why not check out Camps R Us? Founded by Long Island natives Joanne and Gary Turnier, Camps R Us aims to give families the highest quality summer camp programs at the most affordable price.
Submitted by Stephanie Ogozalek on
Regardless of whether your kids attend public, private or parochial, chances are their school is always looking for ways to raise much-needed funds to pay for enriching extras. Parents are often called upon to give money. But there are also lots of fun and easy ways for families to get involved in the fundraising process that involve donating your time and creativity, not your cold hard cash.
A few years back, I wrote a post featuring 7 successful large-scale fundraising projects I helped oversee at my son's school when I was PTA president. Today I'm sharing 9 simple fundraising ideas that can be implemented relatively quickly. In fact, inspired PTAs could get a couple of these off the ground before spring break arrives! You may have heard of some of these before (hello, bake sale) but I've included tips for ways to maximize profits and enjoyment.
Submitted by Laurie Rein on
Westfield, NJ is a Union County town that brings together small-town charm and metropolitan appeal. The downtown area is home to well-known retailers, trendy boutiques and an abundance of restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries. Westfield is a family oriented community, and there’s no shortage of family restaurants to choose from. With popular chains as well as neighborhood establishments, there’s always something to satisfy hungry little ones. Here’s a taste of the many kid friendly dining options in Westfield.
Submitted by Audrey Trieschman on
This three-step project lets kids feed their backyard birds and create fun outdoor hanging decorations at the same time. Pick up some bird seeds at the hardware store and let the kiddos pick their favorite shapes. Even if you live in an urban area, you may be surprised at what little birdies will be attracted to your feeder hung prettily in your window.
Submitted by Teri on
Strolling through the charming streets of tree-lined Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, and Boerum Hill -- one of the hearts of family-centric, brownstone Brooklyn -- you will be met with a plethora of excellent family-friendly dining, places to play, and unique experiences like gaming and offbeat museums.
The area is bordered by the spectacular Brooklyn Bridge Park to the west and the charming Brooklyn Heights enclave to the north, while the similarly family-friendly Park Slope and grittier Gowanus neighborhoods surround the south and east.
Local families likely already know about the wonderful ways to stay connected through the super-active BoCoCa Parents Yahoo Group, and keep up on community news at the Carroll Gardens Patch and local blog Pardon Me For Asking. Those sites are also terrific ways for visitors to plan their trips to the BoCoCa (Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, and Carroll Gardens -- a somewhat outdated way of referring to this nook).
We so enjoyed putting together this list of 45 things to do in the area with your family and for your children. Please enjoy and we hope to see you out there!
Submitted by Toby B on
White, the latest family-friendly production at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, is sweet, funny, and an excellent introduction to the theater for young ones. Simple but smart, the award-winning White captivates young audiences without speaking down to them.
Submitted by Katie McKnight on
A few short weeks ago my husband and I motivated to take our kids into New York City to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Many hours later (as well as many toll roads, parking fees, and bathroom stops later), my 4 year old informed me that she preferred the artwork in her Olivia the Pig book to the John Singer Sargent exhibit we just viewed. Why, oh why did I spend so much money on taking them to a fabulous NY museum when there are so many phenomenal museums in our own backyard here in Fairfield County? Our next museum adventures will be within a 20 mile radius of home – and just look how many great exhibits there are in the local area! And don't forget to check out our Kid-Friendly CT Museum Guide too!
Submitted by Stephanie Forton on
Located in the center of NJ, Ocean Grove brings small town living to the Jersey Shore. At just one square mile, it's a family friendly town that offers relief from the crowds, noise and commercialism that can be found at other beaches. With its gingerbread cottages and quaint main street, Ocean Grove has a 1950's feel that makes it a great destination for families year round. For information on great small towns in North Jersey, check out our posts on Millburn, Nutley and Chester.
