James Smith

James Stephen Smith is a seasoned journalist who transitioned from reporting at Newsday to a more relaxed life as a father and director of media relations at St. John's University. He manages the university’s messaging while also contributing to Mommy Poppins, a site he discovered after his third daughter was born in 2011. Fun fact: James nearly made it on Jeopardy but missed a Final Jeopardy question on art history—only to watch a colleague nail it and become a two-time champion.

Latest posts by James

Weekend Fun for LI Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, August 6-9

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 08/04/2015 - 6:00pm

While August has arrived, there’s still plenty of enjoyment to be found before the kids return to school next month. And no amount of hot and humid weather will undermine the final month of summer vacation.

This weekend, there’s art and culture on the North Fork, and science and discovery on the South. Mix in a fair amount of carnival activity and you have the makings of a spirited weekend no matter what the temperature might read. And remember to check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide for the best in the East End entertainment.

6 Brunch Places in the Hamptons and North Fork for LI Families

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 08/03/2015 - 6:00am

At the end of a fun-filled summer weekend in the Hamptons, what could be better than a family brunch? In fact, for many families returning to the city after a few days of sun and surf, it’s the final ritual before boarding the Long Island Rail Road or challenging the Long Island Expressway.

Scores of restaurants on the East End offer a brunch menu, particularly on Sundays and holidays, but not all are suitable for children. So we've rounded up six of our favorites that offer a combination of location, ambiance and selection that make them ideal choices for parents eager to share a final weekend meal with the family.

For more on what's going on in the area, take a look at our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for LI Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 30-August 2

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/28/2015 - 6:00pm

It’s the first weekend of August, and time to celebrate the East End’s creative heritage. Concerts, puppet shows, live theater, even cooking classes liven up the family fun on the twin forks with enough variety to satisfy any interest.

On the North Fork, kids (and their baby boomer parents) can enjoy a night of “The King’s” music or a chorale concert from one of the region’s top music schools. On the South Fork, how about a Sag Harbor puppet show, an origami boat regatta or a library family day.

Yes, it’s a weekend to indulge your children’s creative side. But if you’re looking for alternatives to the East End arts scene, there’s also Southampton’s annual celebration of Polish culture, nature walks, boat building and more.

For all those happenings and more, check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide. And for the best in seasonal family entertainment across Long Island, don’t forget our Summer Fun Guide.

Baby Gear Rental Places for LI Families in the Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 07/27/2015 - 6:00am

Your toddler is crying in the back seat. Your pre-teen is wondering “how long till we’re there?” Amid the traffic jams and other traveling nightmares that can turn a Hamptons summer into a two-month migraine, there’s one bit of good news: Packing, especially packing for baby, might be a thing of the past.

At least five companies in and around eastern Long Island offer full-service baby gear rentals, minimizing (for a price) the anxiety parents feel as house rental month draws near. There’s also peace of mind in knowing that a full-size crib is available for baby and not the pack-and-plays or portable cribs popular in area hotels and B and Bs.

From strollers to high chairs, car seats and beach equipment, these companies meet almost every imaginable infant necessity. In a pinch, some will even set up the equipment for you. Most ask only that the merchandise — usually certified safe — be returned clean and in delivery condition.

And for more seasonal essentials, be sure to check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for LI Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 24-26

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/21/2015 - 6:00pm

It’s late July on the East End of Long Island and the natural world is on full display. North Fork or South, families eager to experience nature’s pageantry will find no shortage of opportunities. From beach walks to nature hikes and bike rides, it’s all about the environment this week as the East End readies itself for the last complete month of summer.

But rest assured, those not inclined to follow nature’s instincts will find plenty to do this weekend as well. On the North Fork, there are theater productions and music fairs; on the South Fork, carnivals, sports and music. And for even more happening in the area, check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 17-19

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/14/2015 - 6:00pm

From nature talks and fun runs to festivals and puppet shows, there is no shortage of family fun on the East End of Long Island. Two of our favorites happening this weekend include the Riverhead Fire Department commemorating the 80th anniversary of its drill team with a two-day celebration, and the sweet corn festival at Harbes Family Farm.

Of course, you can find even more activities on our jam-packed events calendar. And for other ideas on what to do in the area, check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 10-12

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/07/2015 - 6:00pm

Summer gains momentum on the East End of Long Island in the weeks following July 4. Barbecues and beach parties are in full swing and nature lovers find an abundance of trails ripe for the hiking.

This weekend parents on the North Fork can entertain their children with nature games and tractor pulls, while those on the South Fork can enjoy boat building, baseball, historical celebrations and a night of marine discovery that just happens to coincide with the end of television’s “Shark Week.” And for more fun in the area, don’t forget our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Public Pools for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 07/06/2015 - 7:00am

North Fork or South, along the ocean, Sound or bay, the East End is a nirvana to those who love the beach. But there are days when families prefer something other than sand under their feet (or rip currents around their ankles). Luckily, there are several well-maintained public pools to satisfy our urge to swim when we’ve had our fill of salt water.

The public pools below are ideal for families, low in cost and easy to access. All are staffed by certified lifeguards. Some may close for lessons or competitions; check their websites or call for the latest schedule and pricing information. Prices are as of July 2015.

And for the best in family entertainment throughout the East End, be sure to check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

James Smith

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