Laurie R
Laurie Rein is thrilled to have made a career of digging up activities (especially free ones!) for her twin daughters. Prior to working with Mommy Poppins NJ, Laurie wore many hats in the television industry including gigs as an NBC page, NBC copywriter, affiliate liaison for The Rosie O'Donnell Show and research manager for CBS. She is currently the Events Editor for Mommy Poppins NJ and can be reached at njevents@mommypoppins.com
Latest posts by Laurie
What is it about summer that makes even the most uptight parent want to bend the rules a bit? Like healthy dinner rules? How about ice cream for dinner? Go ahead....we won't tell. As temperatures sore to sweltering heights, and we look for new ways to cool down, ice cream has become a must-have. And as luck would have it, our state has some delicious ice cream joints!
Whether you’re looking to dazzle your taste buds with a quirky flavor or go for an old-fashioned milkshake, we've rounded up a list of amazing ice cream shops that will have New Jersey kids and parents celebrating all that is summer.
From beaches to amusements to water parks, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure in New Jersey this summer. If you’re looking for something new and different to spice up your summer bucket list, you’re in luck. New and improved outdoor experiences are popping up throughout the state. Check out these five fun newcomers to the New Jersey summer scene.
Spring is in full bloom, and it’s the perfect time of year to dig into gardening. Planting flowers or vegetables is a hobby the whole family can enjoy together. Through gardening, young growers can learn about nature, the environment and nurturing living things. And, of course, they’ll love playing in the dirt. Check out these opportunities throughout our Garden State for children learn gardening basics and develop a green thumb.
May is right around the corner, so don your sombrero, dust off that marimba and head out for some Cinco de Mayo family fun! There’s music to dance to, food and drink to consume, monarch butterfly celebrations and more. With all this activity, your kids may enjoy a relaxing siesta while you mix up that margarita you so richly deserve. For even more seasonal fun, check out our list of 25 things we can't wait to do with kids this spring in NJ.
Have you ever dreamed about enjoying a hot cup of coffee while the kids were engulfed in creative play? You know, a cup that you don’t have to reheat 3 times? Get caffeinated while the kids burn energy at Giggles, a brand new indoor activity center in Cranford, NJ that offers both a multi-faceted play arena for little ones and an adjacent coffee bar for grownups. The cafe’s seating is in direct view of the enclosed play area, allowing kids up to age 6 to run free while adults chill out. Open play is pay-as-you-go, with no membership fees. Check out why Giggles is an ideal venue for playdates, mom meet-ups, parties or a little sanity break.
What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than a family nature hike. Central New Jersey’s hiking trails pass through a diversity of beautiful surroundings that include forests, lakes, animal habitats, waterfalls and even historical landmarks. Hiking is a fun way for families to get fresh air, exercise and explore the great outdoors together. Many of the hiking locations also have playgrounds, nature centers and picnic areas, so plan to make a day of it. Pack up the snacks, the camera, a trail map, and check out these five picks for family friendly hikes in Central New Jersey.
Did the recent snow days bring on cabin fever in your home? Get ready for more time off in February. Most New Jersey schools are closed for President’s Day, some longer- even the whole week! We’ve already brought you drop-off options for February break. Now we’ve gathered even more activities to keep the little ones busy, and your own sanity in check, on these wintery days off from school.
Just when you thought everyone was back on track from winter break-- bam! February break sneaks upon us. While some New Jersey schools are closed the Monday of President’s Day only, others have four day weekends or even that whole week off. If you’re in need of child care during the break, or just something to occupy the kiddos, don’t fear. Our list of February break camps is here. February breakers can spend their time off exploring nature, playing their favorite sports, learning science and even tubing down mountains. Check out these drop-off camps offered for various portions of February break.
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