Gina Massaro

Gina Massaro is a Long Island native who believes in whimsy, fairies, and the idea of never growing up. She’s a mom to 3 young kids and a small zoo, and she has over 8 years of experience and childhood education expertise as a preschool educator. She tries to find time to write and paint between school pickups, diaper changes, and dog walks. For more of her art and writing check out her website: ginamassaro.com.

Latest posts by Gina

Best Bakeries for Kids Birthday Cakes on Long Island in 2025

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Fri, 08/15/2025 - 8:41am

A tiered Bambi cake from Fanny Cakes in Nesconset is a sweet birthday delight.

Long Island is full of bakeries to create your child's dream birthday party dessert. From cakes for a family-friendly restaurant extravaganza, to a mega bounce center celebration or bowling party, to an intimate backyard gathering, the options are endless.

We've compiled a list from Nassau to Suffolk County of Long Island's best custom cake bakeries to make your kid's perfect birthday cake. Whether you want an extravagant themed cake, a special character design, or a colorful, trendy creation, we have you covered.

For even more festive birthday inspiration, check out our Birthday Party Guide for Long Island Kids, where you'll find our story on LI's top indoor birthday party venues.

Jetsetter Kids Club, Unique Indoor Play Space, Opens in Lindenhurst

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Sun, 08/10/2025 - 6:52am

Little ones love playing in the padded baby area at Jetsetter Kids Club.

Lindenhurst's new indoor play space, Jetsetter Kids Club, reaches for the stars and delivers. Impressive and unique play structures, plus great thematic elements, make this a must-visit indoor play space for Long Island families. Read on below for all the details on this stellar indoor playground.

Looking for more active fun? Check out our Guide to Indoor Play Spaces on Long Island and our Playground and Parks Guide.

Unique Long Island Birthday Party Places for Kids

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Sun, 07/13/2025 - 2:44pm

Free admission for all your birthday guests at Long Island Aquarium means there’s plenty of time to explore the exhibits. Photo by the author

Every year, as the birthday party invites roll in, a pattern emerges. It's the same party spots over and over.

If you're looking to shake things up with a unique party venue for your child's birthday, look no further. We've rounded up some unique venues on Long Island, ranging from stately museums to immersive play spaces.

For more birthday party fun, check out our Birthday Party Guide, which includes our story on kids' birthday party entertainers on Long Island who come to you.

Best Beach Eats on Long Island from Food Trucks to Frozen Treats

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Mon, 06/09/2025 - 11:28am

Navy Beach is a laid-back, family-friendly waterfront restaurant in Montauk. Photo courtesy of Navy Beach

There's a lot to pack when hitting one of Long Island's family-friendly beaches, from sunscreen to toys, and sometimes you don't want to have to worry about bringing snacks and lunch. Luckily for us all, Long Island has no shortage of beach eats, and many options are right on the beach or boardwalk itself.

Our list below showcases the best beach food Long Island has to offer, including ice cream options, burgers, tacos, and more.

For more kid-friendly food, check out our Restaurant Guide, and take a look at our Guide to Summer Fun on Long Island for more seasonal tips.

21 Classic and Funny Campfire Songs for Any Camping Trip

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Tue, 05/20/2025 - 11:00pm

Gather 'round the campfire and sing some fun songs. Photo courtesy of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation

Can't remember the lyrics to your favorite kids campfire songs? We've got you covered.

There's no better way to end a day in the woods filled with hiking games and camping games than sitting around a fire and singing some campfire songs. We've rounded up the most fun, catchy songs to sing along to during your next camping trip, from classic campfire songs to funny campfire songs to campfire songs for preschoolers that are easy to sign along and learn. Some of the videos even have the campfire song lyrics in them. So grab the marshmallows, stoke the campfire, warm up your singing voice, and get ready to sing these 21 campfire songs with kids.

Be sure to check out our Camping Travel Guide for Families for more camping tips and fun.

Best Places to Get Kids' Ears Pierced on Long Island in 2025

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Mon, 05/19/2025 - 6:05am

Ali Weiss Jewelry in Roslyn uses only 14k gold for piercings. Photo courtesy of the Ali Weiss Jewelry

Whether it's your 6-month-old, 6-year-old, or 16-year-old, you are looking for the same thing when it comes to getting their ears pierced: A sanitary, well-respected, and experienced place for your child's first ear piercing experience.

Knowing where to start can be overwhelming, but you want to choose somewhere you and your child will feel comfortable. Many of these places also have a wide selection of jewelry, so your child can buy pieces that show off their unique style.

For more LI personal styling businesses, be sure to check out our Guide to Stores and Services on Long Island, which includes our picks for the Best Hair Salons for Kids Haircuts.

Exploring the Children's Museum of the East End with Kids

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Mon, 05/12/2025 - 6:30am

Reel in a big one at the Children's Museum of the East End's fishing spot.

Looking for something to do with kids in the Hamptons? The Children's Museum of the East End, or CMEE, is one of Long Island's top museums for children and should be on every parent's bucket list.

This interactive museum packs a lot into its square footage, with children's activities around every corner. On a recent visit, my two kids had a blast with the interactive exhibits, running around the play areas, and putting on a show with the puppet theater. Check out our guide below for all the information you'll need for your upcoming visit.

Before you plan your next outing, take a look at our Museums and Art Guide for Long Island Kids, which includes our story on Long Island's top museums for kids.

Best Baby Boutiques for Cool Baby Clothes on Long Island

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Fri, 04/18/2025 - 8:19am

Shop in-store or opt for curated home delivery from Sag Harbor's Little Red Planet. Photo courtesy of the store

There are few things more exciting than anticipating a bundle of joy, but the fun of shopping for that baby is up there. Whether you're a newly expecting parent, already a pro, or a friend or family member searching for the perfect baby gift, we've got you covered with the top baby stores on Long Island.

You can find everything from an outfit to bring the baby home in, to his or her first lovey, and can even plan ahead for a first birthday party.

For more great baby tips, check out our Long Island Baby Guide, which includes our story on must-do things on Long Island before your baby's first birthday.

Gina Massaro

Latest posts by Gina

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