Cait Sumner

Latest posts by Cait Sumner

Beginner's Guide to Homeschooling: Finding a Homeschool Group

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Tue, 08/30/2016 - 10:00am

If you're thinking about homeschooling, your first concern is probably how your kid will ever see other kids. It's normal to worry about feeling isolated and not knowing what to do or where to go, but don't. Your kid will be socialized, I promise. I was homeschooled from 5th grade all the way through high school, and I struggle more with maintaining adult relationships now than I ever did with friendships then, and trust me, it has nothing to do with the fact that I was homeschooled. Homeschooling has changed so much in the 10 years since I was homeschooled. While the resources are still a bit lacking, there are definitely more families homeschooling now for more of a variety of reasons. Whatever your reason may be, whether your jumping in for preschool or high school, starting out can be daunting and hard. The first thing you'll want to do is find a good group, which may offer classes, get togethers, and field trips.

Mommy Poppins hopes to become a great resource for homeschool families, so stay tuned for our series of articles on different homeschooling topics.

Philly Fitness Centers and Gyms that Offer Childcare

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Wed, 08/10/2016 - 3:00pm

Working out is hard. It's ten times harder if you've got kids climbing all over you, or whining for snacks and screen time, or just plain crying. Let's be honest, we could all use a little time for ourselves anyway. For your health, and your sanity, check out one of these great gyms in the city that offer childcare. Drop your kids off for a morning of fun and play, while you sweat it out.

Learning Through Play Day Cares and Preschools in Philadelphia

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 08/05/2016 - 10:00am

More and more studies are showing how important the role of play is in early childhood learning. Kids develop important social and cognitive skills from play, and become more self-confident and emotionally mature when allowed to learn by playing. Finding a daycare that goes beyond simply watching your kid, and fosters this independence and imporant early learning skill isn't always easy. We've rounded up a few great daycares (some of which also have preschools) where your child will love to learn while they play.

Dinosaurs Unearthed: A New Adventure at the Academy of Natural Sciences

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 07/15/2016 - 10:00am

If there's one thing we love in my family, it's dinosaurs! If you're anything like us, the idea of life-size animatronic dinosaurs, probably sounds pretty amazing. Dinosaurs Unearthed at the Academy of Natural Sciences features more than a dozen of these massive creatures, and you can see them before you've even walked through the door. Running through January 16, 2017, this exhibit is perfect for the dino lovers in your family.

Summer Volunteer and Community Service Opportunities for Teens

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Tue, 07/05/2016 - 10:02am

School is out and, for some, summer boredom may have already set in. Volunteering and giving back to the local community is a rewarding and enriching way to keep teens busy and fulfilled all summer. Community service keeps kids active, and it's always free. It also looks great on a college application. Summer is a perfect time for kids to log some great community service hours instead of lounging around on the couch. And, of course, volunteering isn't limited to summertime; many of these opportunities are available during the school year on weekends and evenings as well. We've compiled a list of a few great opportunities in the area.

Smith Playground's Kidchella Concert Series: A Parent's Review

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Tue, 06/21/2016 - 10:02am

It's that time of year again, Kidchella is back at Smith Memorial Playground! A kiddie play on Coachella, this 3 night concert series is fun for the whole family. Featuring live music from 2 bands each night in the lovely Smith Memorial Playground, kids will enjoy the music and will love to run and play. The weather is beautiful, so get out there and dance.

10 Things To Do with Toddlers at the Jersey Shore

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Wed, 05/25/2016 - 10:02am

The Jersey Shore is the quintessential summer getaway for Philly residents- especially families. It's not too far, it's got great beaches and fun amusements for the kids. But you may be wondering what to do with your younger kids on your family vacation. Toddlers can be tricky to entertain, but the Jersey Shore has plenty. We've rounded up some great activities that little tykes will love. Whether you're visiting for a weekend, or you're there for a whole week, you'll find plenty of kid-friendly fun on this list.

The New Philly Preschool Directory from Mommy Poppins

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Wed, 05/18/2016 - 10:02am

Choosing a preschool can be really hard, especially with your first kid. When you're new to the parenting game, and you haven't quite made a lot of parent friends, it can be quite an overwhelming task. We get it; the struggle is real. That's why we've created our Preschool Directory page. Featuring great schools from all around the Delaware Valley, our directory offers an excellent starting point for parents who want to begin their search for the perfect preschool. All kids are different and all preschools are different, too. For some, choosing a preschool can start before the baby even arrives! Honestly, the admissions process alone can be daunting and confusing. With our new directory, you can see schools in your area all in one convenient place, so you can check out websites, make phone calls and ask friends about the schools you're really interested in.