Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

Latest posts by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

16 Stroller Walks in New Jersey

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Sun, 04/11/2021 - 3:41pm

Load up the kids and strollers, and check out these stroller-friendly walks.

When the mood is right, and the stars align, there's something about pushing your child in a stroller that clears the mind and puts a happy spring in your step. But even then, sometimes the old neighborhood route feels stale. Luckily for us Jersey dwellers, the Garden State is home to countless parks and easy hiking trails, many with paved paths that make for perfect stroller walks. There are waterfall hikes in northern NJ, excellent playgrounds with nearby paths, and gorgeous lakeside walks.

We've collected a list of some of our very favorite stroller walks throughout New Jersey, so fill up your water bottle, pack some snacks and get ready for a lovely stroll.

South Jersey's Construction Theme Park, Diggerland USA, Reopens with a Brand New Water Park

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Tue, 03/23/2021 - 2:00pm

Ever wonder what it would be like to dig with an excavator, drive a real dump truck, or find out for yourself just how high a telehandler really goes?

13 New Jersey Bakeries Serving Over-the-Top Birthday Cakes

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Thu, 03/04/2021 - 6:22pm

Blue Sheep Bake Shop and Ice Creamery serves traditional cakes and can even craft an ice cream creation

Bakeries have elevated birthday cake decorations from simple sugar flowers and plastic balloons to confectionary works of art. With the possibility that this year's birthday party might be pod-sized, now is the time to splurge on a really great cake. Even better, these stunning creations taste as good as they look.

We've found 13 of New Jersey's best bakeries for amazing, custom, painted, and sculpted cakes that you'll be proud to showcase at your kid's next milestone celebration.

If you're not sure how you'll celebrate, we've found 15 creative birthday party venues to celebrate hosting parties in 2021, and have plenty more party planning tips in our Birthday Party Guide. A word to the wise: Be sure to contact your chosen bakery several weeks in advance, since most shops require lead time for special creations, and some book up fast.

25 Card Games Every Kid Should Know

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Thu, 02/25/2021 - 9:09am

Playing card games is not only fun, social, and educational; it gets kids off screens!

I have wonderful memories of playing card games with my family as a kid. The laughs, the late-night snacks, the speedy way my dad would shuffle the cards ... good times! I recently started teaching my four-year-old some simple card games for kids, and I was struck by how captivated she was by these classic card games, all without flashy gimmicks, lights, or sounds. Whether you've got preschoolers or teenagers at home, here are some easy card games that are perfect for your next family game night.

Need more creative ideas to keep your whole family wholesomely entertained? Check out our Boredom Busters guide, not to mention this roundup of the best-ever board games and these brainy puzzle games for kids.

8 Jersey Shore Boardwalks to Explore in the Offseason

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Fri, 02/19/2021 - 10:00am

Explore the famous Asbury Park boardwalk or one of its famous neighbors in the offseason.

Winters at the boardwalk are seriously underrated. You can zip down the Parkway, find parking without circling, stroll a crowd-free Jersey Shore boardwalk, and—best of all—jump to the head of the ice cream line.

So, where are the best spots for a crisp, offseason Jersey Shore adventure? We've rounded up eight local boardwalks where you can stretch your legs, grab a treat, and enjoy some family time. While wide-open spaces and the fresh sea breeze are nice, each of these spots boasts some family-friendly offseason perks making them worthy of a day trip.

Find more fun things to do in our Jersey Shore Family Guide.

Where to Throw Birthday Parties in New Jersey in 2021

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Sun, 02/14/2021 - 5:05pm

Glitter and Glam birthday parties offer plenty of pampering and more.

Looking for a unique spot to host your child's next birthday party? Venues with both hands-on fun and enough space to blow out the candles with your bunch safely? We've rounded up 15 exciting options throughout NJ that your birthday kid will love, from private movie theater rentals to heart-pumping go-kart racing.

If you're more comfortable staying in, see our list of virtual and social distancing party ideas for kids, and be sure to visit our Birthday Party Guide for even more ways to celebrate.

Top Indoor Play Spaces in New Jersey Open Now

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Fri, 01/15/2021 - 4:42pm

Exceptional Explorers offers open play as well as structured travel-themed classes.

Have your kids caught cabin fever? After a year like 2020, they're definitely not alone. If your typical stash of crafts and board games just isn't cutting it anymore, fear not. From north to south, there are plenty of great NJ indoor play centers, obstacle courses, and trampoline parks that offer the perfect antidote to the winter blues. We've picked 16 super fun indoor play spaces that are sure to be a welcome break to your daily routines. All of the picks on our list are open and welcoming visitors now.

Exceptional Explorers Play Space Debuts in Livingston

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Mon, 09/21/2020 - 6:55pm

Livingston kids can travel the world without leaving their neighborhood, thanks to an innovative new play space that's debuted in northern New Jersey.

The brainchild of two creative cousins, Exceptional Explorers is the area's newest indoor play space. It's a uniquely designed indoor playground where kids from crawlers through elementary-school age can learn about global cultures and geography while sharpening their fine- and gross-motor skills. Area parents can appreciate the venue's attention to cleanliness and remote learning support, plus plans to offer enriching classes, and a new venue to celebrate milestone birthdays.