Alison Reiser

Jennifer Battista is proud to be a Jersey Girl. She was born and raised in Monmouth County and spent her summers sunning at the Jersey Shore. After ten years living in New York City, she’s happy to be back in the Garden State where she lives with her hubby, two sons and kitty. When not busy writing for Mommy Poppins, Jennifer works as a freelance editor for several publishing companies, volunteers with local community organizations and is a semi-professional class mom. She is obsessive about pop culture and is an unabashed disco fan. She loves to plan activities and is excited to share her Jersey knowledge with Mommy Poppins’ readers as the Events Editor for the NJ site.

You can also follow Jennifer on Google+.

Latest posts by Alison

Best Indoor Play Spaces in Union County

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Mon, 01/13/2014 - 6:00am

Winter is here and it’s a cold one! If you’re tired of being cooped up inside with the kids, why not visit one of Union County's wonderful indoor play spaces? We’ve covered eight great choices below, including everything from bounce houses to art studios to indoor mini-golf. Keep them in mind on the next frigid day and no need to worry about going stir-crazy! For more indoor play ideas, visit our new Indoor Play & Rainy Day Activity Guide.

Best Indoor Play Spaces in Morris County

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Thu, 11/14/2013 - 6:00am

The balmy days of early autumn are now behind us and the cooler weather is here to stay. Wondering what to do with the kids now that it’s too cold to hit the playground most days? We’ve got the scoop on super-fun indoor play spaces to help you survive the winter months ahead. From painting pottery to rock climbing to just bouncing around, you'll find a variety of options to suit every child. Read on for our list of eight great locations in Morris County and check out our posts that highlight other spots in Bergen County, Essex County, Hudson County and Warren & Sussex Counties.

Farmers' Markets in Union County, NJ

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Fri, 06/07/2013 - 6:00am

One of the things I love best about living in NJ is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. They don’t call it the Garden State for nothing! From tomatoes to corn to fresh berries, it seems you can find delicious, locally-grown produce everywhere you look. And what’s better than buying directly from the farmers who’ve grown it? We've already told you about Farmers' Markets in Hudson County and now Farmers’ markets are popping up all over Union County, offering wonderful food and gourmet items at many convenient locations. Whether it’s fresh nectarines, yummy whoopie pies or mouth-watering mozzarella, you’re sure to find something scrumptious!

Library Programs in Northern New Jersey

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Sun, 01/20/2013 - 11:01pm

Community libraries are a wonderful resource for families. From story time to special clubs and fun events, they offer a wide variety of programs that appeal to all ages. Libraries are especially wonderful during the cold winter months when you need somewhere to escape with the kids for a few hours. We’ve rounded up some of the best activities currently scheduled at Northern NJ libraries—read on for some great suggestions to keep your family busy this winter.

Day Trips and Mini-Camps for Christmas Break in NJ

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Mon, 12/24/2012 - 8:52am

We've already told you about some fun things to do with the kids next week when they’re home with you 24/7, but we have a few more up our sleeve, everything from special stuff you can do together to cool spots where you can drop them off and enjoy some alone time. Read on for our top picks, including museum adventures, day trips and several mini-camps to keep 'em busy.

Small Factory Productions: Bringing Imagination to Life

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Fri, 08/17/2012 - 6:56am

Small Factory Productions is a little studio nestled in Fair Haven, NJ that is producing some of today’s most innovative work in art, design and animation, even winning an Emmy in recognition of their efforts. So what makes them different from other television or music studios? At Small Factory, all of the directors, producers and designers are children. This unique facility allows kids to create music, art, cartoons and more through interactive programs that spark the imagination. Read on to learn more about Small Factory and how you can receive a special discount at one of their upcoming Factory Nights.

"Crybaby Matinees": Baby-Friendly Movie Theaters in NJ

Submitted by Jennifer Battista on Fri, 05/18/2012 - 7:00am

There are many things we sacrifice as new parents: a good night’s sleep, adult conversation, sometimes even showering. But thanks to “Crybaby Matinees,” catching the latest movie doesn’t have to be added to the list. At these midday screenings, you can bring your baby along with you! Hang with other parents, let your little one sleep (or cry) and enjoy the show. Read on for details on two special programs now offered at New Jersey theaters.