Jaime Sumersille

Jaime Sumersille, a mom of two boys in Bellmore, has been writing for Mommy Poppins for over a decade. She’s always exploring Long Island’s beaches, parks, and new attractions, and loves sharing those experiences on the site. Jaime enjoys adding her family’s perspective to Mommy Poppins’ mission.

Latest posts by Jaime

Best Ice Cream Spots in the Hamptons & North Fork for Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Thu, 07/17/2025 - 3:06pm

Nostalgia is the vibe at Magic Fountain Ice Cream Shop. Photo courtesy of the shop

Think about summer on Long Island, and ice cream immediately comes to mind. In the Hamptons and on the North Fork, there are scoop shops serving ice cream and other kid-pleasing confections.

From sticky fingers and sugary lips, ice cream can be a messy treat. But just one lick of these homemade ice creams on Long Island's East End makes it all worth it—even the calories! That's why we've rounded up the best ice cream shops in the region.

We've found more sweet treats at these old-fashioned ice cream spots on Long Island, and you can take a peek at our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide for all the seasonal fun out east!

Splish Splash Is Your Long Island Summer Secret Weapon with All-Ages Attractions to Keep Cool

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Fri, 07/11/2025 - 11:02am

First into the pool wins as you race down Shotgun Falls at Riverhead's Splish Splash water park.

If you're looking for a fun way to cool off with kids on Long Island during the summer, Splish Splash water park on the East End has aquatic activities for all. Whether you're into wave pools, careening down slippery slides, or frolicking in splash pads, this aqua-topia is the perfect way to spend a thrilling, water-logged day.

A Long Island staple for generations, Splish Splash is always adding new attractions and amenities. We recently revisited this local water park and have our parent-tested tips below. Be sure to check out our guide to Family Amusement Parks & Water Parks and our Ultimate Kids Summer Vacation Guide for more summer fun!

Spies, History, and Prizes Await During the Long Island History Hunt

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Mon, 07/07/2025 - 12:31pm

The Raynham Hall Museum invites visitors to step back into the colonial era and is one of 12 participating spots on the Long Island History Hunt. Photo courtesy of the museum

Get ready for an exciting journey through time! Museums and historical societies from Brooklyn to Montauk are collaborating on a summer-long Long Island History Hunt, giving local families fun-filled—and prize-fueled—motivation to inspire a love of local history this summer.

If you choose to embark on this hunt for local lore, you'll visit amazing places where real-life spies, brave patriots, and even a president helped shape Long Island’s past. From the secret world of the Culper Spy Ring to the inspiring story of Theodore Roosevelt, each stop is packed with cool facts and hidden stories that bring history to life.

Speaking of local history, we've outlined our favorite Long Island historic sites for families here, and have an entire Long Island Kids' Guide to Local Museums to inspire more exploration.

Scott's Pointe is Long Island's New Adventure HQ with All-Ages Fun Inside and Out

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 07/06/2025 - 8:51am

Catch the endless waves at Scott's Pointe's indoor surf simulator.

Scott's Pointe in Calverton is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, water lovers, and outdoor adventurers. This sprawling East End indoor-outdoor adventure park is fully operational after decades in the making and it was absolutely worth the wait.

From tiny tots to teens, and yes, even fun-loving grown-ups, there's something for everyone here. So grab your swimsuits, your sense of adventure, and the whole crew—Scott’s Pointe is calling!

Be sure to check out our Guide to Amusement Parks and Water Parks on Long Island for more cool places to make a splash. And get outside and experience other adventures with our Outdoor Activities Guide.

4th of July Weekend 2025 on Long Island: Fireworks, Festivals, and More Things To Do

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Fri, 07/04/2025 - 10:22am

Massive dinosaurs are stomping into town during the LuminoCity Dino Safari. Photo courtesy LuminoCity

Looking for the best things to do on Long Island this 4th of July weekend? Read on for details on where to catch the fireworks and other family-friendly events to add to your list.

Kick off the 4th of July weekend with a bang at fireworks displays across Long Island. You can also join the Independence Day fun at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, where you can enjoy old-timey trade demos, fiddle music, exciting military drills, and plenty more surprises for the whole family.

And, if you're looking for something to do before the sparklers take flight, consider stomping on over to the Walt Whitman Shops to check out the weekend opening of LuminoCity's Dino Safari. Bonus: Mommy Poppins readers can use code MP15 to receive a 15% discount on tickets.

We've got more fun seasonal picks on our list of the best things to do all month long. As always, our Family Activity Calendar is constantly updated, too.

4th of July and More Best Things To Do on Long Island July 2025 with Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 06/29/2025 - 10:58am

Live music, selfie stations, and more headline Alive on 25 in Riverhead. Photo by Jaime Sumersille

Looking for the best things to do on Long Island this July? Here are all the family-friendly events and activities you should add to your list–from fireworks and the 4th of July to more summer must-dos.

There are tons of places to watch fireworks for the 4th of July–see our Guide to LI Fireworks Shows for more.

Meanwhile, the Empire State Fair takes up residence at Nassau Coliseum, LuminoCity Dino Safari stomps into the Walt Whitman Shops, and Kidz Bop strikes a chord with families at the Jones Beach Theater.

Read on for all the ways to pack your calendar this month on Long Island.

24 Best Things To Do in Sayville with Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Mon, 06/23/2025 - 7:47am

Dance with the whole family at free concerts at Common Ground at the Rotary. Photo courtesy of The Sayville Common Ground at Rotary Park

Nestled comfortably on the South Shore between Nassau and the East End, Sayville makes a great day trip any time of the year.

About five miles west of Patchogue, Sayville might be overlooked for the more popular central Suffolk destination. However, Sayville also has a booming downtown area full of restaurants and shops, as well as ferry service to central Fire Island. With delicious eateries, seasonal festivals, and play areas for kids, you can find something for every member of the family.

We've rounded up all our favorite Sayville destinations for kids and families below. You'll find more fun local communities to explore in our Guide to Suffolk County, plus more fun expeditions in our Guide to Day Trips on Long Island.

Best Summer Street Fairs and Festivals on Long Island July and August 2025

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 06/22/2025 - 7:27am

Greenport Village Dances in the Park events are fun for all ages. Photo courtesy of Greenport Village

Fairs and festivals abound on Long Island during the summer months, and that’s great news for families. These outdoor celebrations offer perfect opportunities for old-fashioned family fun.

Some of our picks are annual events, while others are just getting started, and some transform our favorite main streets into no-car zones. You'll even find some cool extras, like live music. Find more ways to celebrate the season in our Ultimate Long Island Kids Summer Vacation Guide, which includes our story on Long Island's best fireworks displays.

Jaime Sumersille

Latest posts by Jaime

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