Stephanie Forton

Latest posts by Stephanie

Overnight Camp-Ins: Museum Sleepovers and More for New Jersey Families

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 08/12/2014 - 9:00am

Imagine an overnight camping adventure without the worries of bugs and bad weather. Our list of camp-in destinations offers memorable adventures that are sure to please the entire family. From sleeping with sharks to bunking on a real battleship, these overnight getaways will create memories that will last a lifetime. For even more nearby camp-in destinations, check out our post on Museum Sleepovers in Long Island.

Great Small Towns in New Jersey: Avalon

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 07/22/2014 - 9:00am

It's no surprise that the Washingtonian named Avalon the "chicest beach in the Mid-Atlantic". Occupying the North end of Seven Mile Island in Cape May County, Avalon is known for its quiet, upscale atmosphere. Perfect for families, Avalon and the entire barrier island sit a mile seaward than any other shore towns, making it the perfect place to enjoy cool ocean breezes on those hot summer days. Below we have highlighted a few great reasons to visit this beautiful small town. For more small towns on the Jersey Shore, check out our posts on Stone Harbor and Cape May.

Babysitting Courses for Kids in New Jersey

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 07/15/2014 - 9:00am

Summer is upon us, and while the younger kids are off at camp, our tweens and young teens are often looking for ways to earn a few dollars. It's the perfect time for them to launch their own babysitting business and take advantage of the many moms and dads who are looking for a summer babysitter or mother's helper to keep their little guys happy. There are some great local babysitting courses available that will guarantee that your kids are prepared to handle any situation. Whether your son or daughter is ready to start their own babysitting business, or if you just want to make sure they are confident when keeping an eye on their younger siblings, these courses are worth checking out. If you happen to be looking for a new sitter, check out our post on organizing a babysitting co-op in your own neighborhood.

What To Do With Kids on LBI

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Wed, 07/09/2014 - 2:45pm

A summer in New Jersey would not be complete without a trip to the Garden State's family-friendly, barrier island known as Long Beach Island. "The Island", as it is called by locals, is home to some of the best beaches on the east coast. When the family grows tired of playing in the sand, LBI is choc full of kid friendly destinations as well. From amusement parks to museums, Long Beach Island has something for everyone. Check out our list of "must-do" family attractions. For more barrier island fun, check out our posts on Seven Mile Island's small town, Stone Harbor.

Golf Lessons for New Jersey Kids

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Tue, 06/10/2014 - 9:00am

When the grass turns green and the temperatures warm up many New Jersey moms and dads grab their golf clubs and hit the links. This summer, why not get the kids in on the fun? The game of golf teaches skill, logic and honesty, and it happens to be a great way for kids to pass the time during the summer months. With some of the best golf courses in the country, New Jersey is the perfect place to introduce kids to this fantastic sport. Start them swinging by enrolling them in one of these great kids golf programs. Check out our post on the Best Miniature Golf Courses in New Jersey for more fun golf options this spring and summer.

Best Family-Friendly Bird Watching Sanctuaries in New Jersey

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Thu, 05/22/2014 - 12:54pm

A few weeks ago I let my daughter bring a pair of binoculars on our weekly hike. She is not always the most enthusiastic hiker so I was pleasantly surprised when she immediately perked up. The next week I picked up a birding book and she started checking off all of the different birds we saw. Turns out, bird watching can instill a real appreciation of nature in children. New Jersey's wide variety of distinct habitats and location on the Atlantic Flyway make it a great place for bird watchers to enjoy over 400 different species of birds. Kids naturally gravitate toward nature when given the chance, so give them a pair of binoculars and open their eyes to the wonders of birding at one of these great birding spots and sanctuaries. For more outdoor fun, check out our post on family friendly hikes in Central New Jersey.

En Garde! Fencing Schools and Camps in New Jersey

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Mon, 05/19/2014 - 9:00am

Give most children a stick, and inevitably it will become a sword. My children love battling it out with everything from wrapping paper tubes to broomsticks. Why not turn that love of battle into a great form of exercise for your kids? As a mother of a fairly coordinated kid who hates the idea of baseball, soccer, and football, I've come to realize that classes in an individual sports like karate or fencing might be the best way to get him sweating. Fencing is just the right mix of imagination and sport; kids love the cool swordplay, and parents love the discipline, coordination, and logical thinking that fencing lessons provide. If you are looking for a fun new sport for your kids, take a stab at fencing at one of these amazing fencing schools right here in New Jersey. For more great summer camps, check out our New Jersey Summer Day Camp Guide.

Great Small Towns in NJ: Stone Harbor

Submitted by Stephanie Forton on Thu, 05/08/2014 - 9:00am

With an area of less than two square miles, the adorable seaside town of Stone Harbor showcases small town charm at its best. With the Intercoastal Waterway to the West and the Atlantic Ocean to the East, this barrier island town offers unlimited opportunities for water sports and recreation. From sunrise to sunset, visitors can find make themselves as busy or relaxed as they choose. Peaceful beaches, a quaint downtown and exceptional restaurants make Stone Harbor one of the most appealing destinations at the Jersey Shore. To learn about more great small shore towns, check out our posts on Ocean Grove and Cape May.