Natalie Silverstein

Natalie Silverstein - NYC and LI Writer

A longtime New Yorker who enjoys exploring the city with her husband and three young children, Silverstein worked in health-care management before becoming a full-time parent, and part-time freelance writer, philanthropist and volunteer. In addition to contributing to Mommy Poppins NYC and Long Island, Natalie uses her healthcare knowledge as a copywriter and editor for Michael's Mission, a nonprofit dedicated to providing information and support to people struggling with colorectal cancer. She is passionate about teaching her kids the importance of giving back to their community, and serves as the New York coordinator of Doing Good Together, an organization dedicated to inspiring families to raise children who care and contribute. In that role, she curates a monthly list of kid-friendly service opportunities for families who want to have fun by volunteering together. She is a board member and active volunteer at her children's school, and a supporter of a variety of other charitable organizations in New York City. Follow her on Google+.

Latest posts by Natalie

Holiday Volunteering with Kids in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Mon, 11/18/2013 - 12:00am

Every year around the holidays, many readers ask about ways they can volunteer with their children. It's not as easy as you might think. Many charitable organizations have age minimums for their hands-on projects, and even when you do find family-friendly volunteering opportunities, they often book up weeks in advance. But local food pantries and shelters are always in need at this time of year, and you can go through your own kitchen cabinet or closet, or shop your local supermarket, to collect a few extra items for families in need.

With Thanksgiving coming up this month, we wanted to highlight some great ways Hamptons kids and their parents can help those in need. While kids may not be able to work in a soup kitchen, they can certainly help the homeless and hungry in other meaningful ways. Here are some family-friendly ways to put the "giving" in your Thanksgiving.

Places to see Fall Foliage in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Mon, 11/04/2013 - 12:00am

Autumn in the Hamptons and North Fork is filled with pumpkin patches, apple picking and the beauty of vibrant Fall foliage. This week is your last chance to enjoy the breathtaking colors, as all of Suffolk County is either at or very near peak foliage color. The I Love NY website offers a Fall Foliage report and a leaf identifier tool to help you and your children collect and identify the leaves you'll likely collect on your outing. But don't delay!! Too soon, the leaves will be blowing in the wind and the branches will be bare until next year. Read on for a few suggestions of spots where you can get out of your car to explore and enjoy nature up close.

Birthday Party Venues in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Mon, 10/21/2013 - 1:17pm

A birthday party celebration in the Hamptons doesn't need to focus on the pool or the beach, and during the cooler months, you'll want to find a fun indoor activity. Whether you have a sporty kid, a princess, a future marine biologist or a budding artist, there are party venues for every interest area, age and budget.

Best Playgrounds In The Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Mon, 09/16/2013 - 10:34am

There's nothing better than letting kids run around and burn off some energy on a beautiful day. The Hamptons and North Fork offer great parks and beaches for nature hikes, but sometimes kids just want to climb, seesaw, and swing. Most towns on the East End have a playground tucked away along Main Street's local parks or beaches. Here's a list of some of the best recreational areas in the Hamptons and North Fork.

Back To School Shopping: The Best Kids Clothing Stores In The Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Mon, 09/02/2013 - 6:06pm

Back to school shopping is in full swing. There are outlet malls and big box stores, but nothing beats shopping at small, independent shops for unique clothing for kids. We searched for the top local stores that are filled with popular brands and off-beat options. These stores are perfect for little fashionistas who want to go back to school in style. Read on for our top ten picks for clothing stores for kids in the Hamptons and North Fork. Check out our Back to School Guide for more shopping ideas.

Kid Activities In The Hamptons And North Fork: Labor Day Weekend August 31 - September 2

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Thu, 08/29/2013 - 1:15am

It's hard to believe that Labor Day is already here. The unofficial end of summer offers plenty of options to squeeze in a few more days of fun before heading back to school. The Optimum Kids Day at the Hampton Classic is a highlight for families, offering everything from pony rides to face painting. Soak up some Native American culture at the Shinnecock Pow Wow. Or take in a performance of Fancy Nancy: The Musical at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center. Enjoy the last days of summer, and read on for our top picks for this Labor Day weekend.

Kid Activities In The Hamptons And North Fork This Weekend: August 24-25

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Wed, 08/21/2013 - 3:38pm

This weekend marks the opening of a favorite East End tradition: The 38th Annual Hampton Classic Horse Show. With horses, competitions, shopping, food, and kiddie activities, it has something for everyone. Get crafty at the Art Show and Craft Fair on Shelter Island and the Quilt Show in Water Mill. Especially for the younger set, enjoy puppets and dragonflies at local libraries. Read on for our favorite picks for the weekend of August 24-25.

Kid Activities In The Hamptons And North Fork This Weekend: August 17-18

Submitted by Natalie Silverstein on Wed, 08/14/2013 - 1:02pm

This weekend, discover the graffiti artist within at the Children's Museum of the East End, or explore nature and wildlife at the South Fork Natural History Museum. Future firefighters enjoy truck rides and water games at the Westhampton Beach Fire Department Annual Open House. Celebrate Polish heritage on Long Island with polka dancing and kielbasa in Riverhead at the Annual Polish Town Fair & Polka Festival. Read on for more enjoyable activities in the Hamptons and North Fork.