Stephanie Forton

Latest posts by Stephanie

Gamers! Unique Indoor Gaming Centers in New Jersey

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 01/27/2015 - 9:00am

My kids are gamers. I'll admit it, they cherish every second they can get on their Xbox, computer or iPad. Like most moms, I try to limit their screen time, but I've also come to realize that gaming is a big part of how they socialize with their friends. Recent studies have even shown that moderate gaming leads to improved performance in perception, attention and cognition. During these cold winter months, it's nice to find an indoor space where my kids and their friends can get together and play (that isn't my house). We've put together a list of New Jersey gaming lounges where kids can gather to mine, race and battle. For more great opportunities for gamers and tech savvy kids, check out our post on STEM classes in New Jersey, where your kids can learn to program and design their own games.

Great Small Towns in New Jersey: Lambertville

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Thu, 01/15/2015 - 9:00am

With a rich history and a great location, the small town of Lambertville has become a favorite destination for day-tripping New Jersey families. Founded in 1705, Lambertville is one of the oldest communities in Hunterdon County. Once a bustling factory village, Lambertville has evolved into a charming town filled with unique shops, great restaurants and historical homes. If you're looking for a great place to spend the day, head to the banks of the scenic Delaware River and discover Lambertville. On your way home, be sure to stop in Frenchtown, another great Hunterdon County small town.

Great Small Towns in NJ: Frenchtown

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 12/30/2014 - 9:00am

I've lived in New Jersey my entire life, but just recently discovered the Victorian Village on the Delaware known as Frenchtown. This picturesque town is tiny (just over one square mile), but packed with plenty to do for nature lovers, shoppers, foodies and families. We've highlighted some of the best reasons to visit this great little town. With a perfect location and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants we promise you won't be disappointed. Take a day trip to Frenchtown and find out why it might just be New Jersey's best kept secret. For even more great small town destinations, check out our Small Towns Guide.

Great Small Towns in New Jersey: Atlantic Highlands

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Thu, 11/13/2014 - 8:25am

Atlantic Highlands, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Bayshore", is one of New Jersey's most unique small towns. This charming Victorian town on the Jersey Shore overlooks the New York Bay, Manhattan and the Atlantic Ocean. The town's hills include the highest point on the East Coast south of Maine. In addition to its great location and rich history, Atlantic Highlands is home to delightful restaurants, theaters and one-of-a-kind shops. Read on to learn why you should take a day trip to this adorable slice of Victorian America. For even more day trip destinations in Monmouth County, check out our Small Town Posts on Matawan and Aberdeen, Red Bank and Ocean Grove.

Great Ways to Celebrate a Holiday Birthday in NJ

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 11/11/2014 - 9:00am

Birthday party planning is never simple. Throw in the added fun of planning a party during the holidays and busy parents might lose their minds. Unfortunately, it's all too easy for November and December birthdays to get lost among all of the other holiday celebrations. Luckily, New Jersey offers some great ways to make your little one's birthday special no matter when it is. We have some great birthday ideas that will make your kids happy to celebrate their special day during the holiday season. For more great year round birthday party ideas check out our Birthday Party Guide.

Top 20 Things To Do With Thrill-Seeking NJ Kids

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Thu, 10/23/2014 - 9:00am

My six year old son is a thrill seeker. I cringe at the playground watching him climb to the tippy top of the jungle gym. When we go hiking he is always the first to suggest trying the more difficult trail. While I admire his adventurous spirit, as a mom it's hard to not imagine the worst case scenario. That's why I'm so happy that I found some safe local activities that will satisfy both his need for thrills and my need to protect him. Check out our list below for some great activities for your adventurous child. If you have little ones, be sure to read our post 25 Things To Do With Preschoolers Before They Turn 5, and for October fun for the whole family make sure you check out our New Jersey Halloween Guide.

Great Small Towns in New Jersey: Summit

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Thu, 09/25/2014 - 9:00am

Named for its location at the top of the Watchung Mountains, the town of Summit, NJ is definitely worth the climb. The six square miles that make up this great town offer the perfect mix of city chic and outdoor fun. Summit boasts an eclectic downtown that is home to more than 200 unique boutiques and restaurants. In addition, the town's great parks, recreational facilities and unique outdoor attractions make for a fun day trip for the entire family. Check out some of our favorite Summit destinations below. For even more great North Jersey towns check out our Guide to Great Small Towns in Northern NJ or our posts on Bernardsville and Chester.

Girl Scouting in New Jersey

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Mon, 08/25/2014 - 9:00am

My daughter has tried everything from dance lessons to cooking classes, but the one activity that has kept her interest for the past 6 years is being a Girl Scout. We started the scouting journey together when she was in kindergarten. She was an adorable Daisy Scout and I became an enthusiastic troop leader. For the past 6 years I have had the pleasure of watching a group of girls mature from wild 5 year olds, who spent meetings crafting and giggling, to enthusiastic young ladies who have learned the values of friendship, the outdoors and community service. Just this year, the girls in our troop earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award for creating an organic garden and donating the crop to the local food pantry. In addition to teaching valuable lessons, Girl Scouting is just plain fun. Who doesn't love earning patches, selling cookies and making new friends? Read on for some great information on getting involved with Girl Scouts in New Jersey. For more great after school activities, check out our Classes and Activities Guide.