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

Long Island Summer Camps With Availability — Yes, Even Now

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Thu, 06/07/2018 - 10:00am

If you haven't spent a minute thinking about summer camp this year, there's no need to panic. There are Long Island summer camp programs that have spaces available. Of course, if you've been too busy to book a camp for your kids, you might not have time to call around now. That's why we did the work for you. Here are several Long Island camps that as of early June still have spots for summer 2018. There are over 20 locations across Long Island. To search by location, open the map at the bottom of the page. To find about more Long Island-based camps, check out our comprehensive Summer Camp Guide and Directory.

Nickelodeon Punta Cana: All-Inclusive Caribbean Resort with a Side of Slime

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sat, 05/26/2018 - 1:00pm

If your dream vacation is one where the kids are out of their minds with fun, while you sip piña coladas by your private plunge pool, have I got a place for you. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, gives little ones all the fun of a theme park visit while providing adults with a luxurious, all-inclusive vacation that doesn’t leave you needing another getaway when you get back.

From the best rooms, pools, experiences, and eats, read on for our review of everything you need to know to enjoy your Caribbean family vacation at Nick Resort Punta Cana.

Nutcracker and Holiday Shows for Kids on Long Island

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sat, 05/12/2018 - 2:00pm

Ring in the holiday season by taking in a theatrical performance. Kids of all ages will enjoy the magic of music, storytelling, and dance in a classic performance of The Nutcracker or another holiday show.

Here are some amazing holiday shows for families on Long Island. Be sure to check out our calendar for more holiday family fun.

Butterflies and Birds: Where You Can Interact with Them on LI

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Tue, 04/24/2018 - 1:30pm

The tropical birds at the Long Island Aquarium sure aren't shy. Photo courtesy of the aquarium.

You know what they say: Birds of a feather flock together. Well, on Long Island they seem to flock to nature preserves, centers, sanctuaries, and farms. Flutter around our area and you can get up close with some beautiful butterflies, too. But don't just wing it — we have the skinny on hoo to see and where.

Need another animal fix? Visit our zoos and gardens guide. Many outdoor petting zoos operate on a seasonal schedule, opening in spring or summer, and closing in fall before the snow arrives.

Exploring Sands Point Preserve: Dino Trail, Castles, and Hikes

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Tue, 04/17/2018 - 12:30pm

The Hempstead House at Sand Point Preserve. Photo courtesy of Sands Point Conservancy

Dare to compare footprints with fantastic beasts who roamed the Earth long before us at the Dino Trail at Sands Point Preserve.

It's one of six trails ripe for strolling, hiking, jogging and exploring at this sprawling Gold Coast estate turned public sanctuary. And that's not all: There's so much more to explore, including 200 acres of trails, a pond, beachfront, woods and native habitats.

There are so many sweet spots to soak up nature on Long Island. Get out and get exploring. Looking for more North Shore shenanigans? Check out our Mommy Poppins visitors guide to nearby Port Washington, a family-friendly Long Island destination.

Easter and Passover Weekend Events for LI Kids: Festivals, Bunny Brunches

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Wed, 03/28/2018 - 2:00pm

With Peter Cottontail hopping into town this weekend, there are plenty of Easter celebrations across Long Island. Dine with the Easter Bunny at these breakfasts and brunches or go on one of these ultimate egg hunts.

For more activities to complete Easter or Passover weekend, pop over to our April GoList or Spring Fun Guide. Of course, our Event Calendar is loaded with fun, daily events for Long Island kids. Don't see a great event here? Add it to our calendar yourself.

Note: Easter weekend breakfasts and brunches are quite popular on Long Island. Call ahead or check venue websites to be guarantee availability.

Enjoy Hands-On Learning at the Science Museum of Long Island

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Tue, 03/27/2018 - 2:00pm

Kids will delight in storytime at the Long Island Science Museum.

Located on picturesque Leeds Pond Preserve on Nassau County's North Shore, the Science Museum of Long Island, on the border of Manhasset and Plandome, boasts engaging, entertaining, and enriching workshops, camps, and year-round events for Long Island families.

Looking for more museum fun? Check out our list of some of the best family-friendly museums on Long Island. Our museums guide offers the complete lowdown on Long Island planetariums, science centers, historic sites, and more.

Scope out more fun in our guide to indoor play spaces on Long Island as well as our event calendar.

Crystal Springs Resort: Two NJ Hotels Host Mountains of Family Fun

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Tue, 02/20/2018 - 1:53pm

Sometimes, it's all about the location when you travel. Exploring new areas of your state or country are exciting. But other times, it's all about the amenities. When you pack two sister resorts full of skiing, snow adventures, water play, and spa options, there's really no need to go past the grounds—which is the case with Crystal Springs Resort in northern New Jersey.

Read on to discover everything you need to know about Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Hotel, and if they're right for your family.

Find more vacation destinations in our Family Resort Guide, which is packed with reviews.

Jaime Sumersille

Latest posts by Jaime

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