Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

Kaylynn Ebner, a mom of three, has been writing for Mommy Poppins since 2016. She’s passionate about exploring new spots with her family and sharing NJ’s best attractions and hidden gems with the Mommy Poppins community.

Latest posts by Kaylynn Chiarello

Family-Friendly Beer Gardens in New Jersey

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Sun, 07/04/2021 - 9:57am

Kids will love the food while parents have a tasty brew at The Alementary.

It's summertime, and we've got an idea to add to your list of outdoor destinations to visit with your crew: a family-friendly beer garden. Surprised? Don't be! These venues can be a pretty fun place for the whole family to grab a bite (and a sip) and enjoy some quality together time. Bring some small toys or card games, order some pretzels, kick back, and enjoy. Find more family-friendly picks for eating out in our Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide.

Amusement Park and Water Park Discounts: How to Score Ticket Deals at Theme Parks Near NYC

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Mon, 06/14/2021 - 5:46pm

Hershey Park lets you preview its rides for 2-3 hours of bonus park time the night before you visit.

There's no better time to experience the thrills of your favorite amusement park time than Summer 2021. Many parks are helping friends and family make up for lost time with special summer rates that you won't want to miss. Here's how to score ticket deals at area theme parks and water parks in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York, all of which are an easy day trip for NYC-area families.

With deals this hot, you might be able to check out more than one of these new-in-2021 rides.

Online Consignment Shops to Buy & Resell Kids' Clothes

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Sun, 04/18/2021 - 11:09am

Browse or sell kids' clothing online with sites like thredUP. Photo courtesy the company

Kids grow ridiculously fast. Some days, it feels like by the time my boys come home from school, they’ve already outgrown what I dressed them in that morning! My bank account can vouch for this as well. It’s no wonder why many families are turning to a more economical and eco-friendly way to fill the closet: online consignment shops where parents can buy, sell, and trade new and pre-loved clothing.

16 Stroller Walks in New Jersey

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Sun, 04/11/2021 - 3:41pm

Load up the kids and strollers, and check out these stroller-friendly walks.

When the mood is right, and the stars align, there's something about pushing your child in a stroller that clears the mind and puts a happy spring in your step. But even then, sometimes the old neighborhood route feels stale. Luckily for us Jersey dwellers, the Garden State is home to countless parks and easy hiking trails, many with paved paths that make for perfect stroller walks. There are waterfall hikes in northern NJ, excellent playgrounds with nearby paths, and gorgeous lakeside walks.

We've collected a list of some of our very favorite stroller walks throughout New Jersey, so fill up your water bottle, pack some snacks and get ready for a lovely stroll.

13 New Jersey Bakeries Serving Over-the-Top Birthday Cakes

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Thu, 03/04/2021 - 6:22pm

Blue Sheep Bake Shop and Ice Creamery serves traditional cakes and can even craft an ice cream creation

Bakeries have elevated birthday cake decorations from simple sugar flowers and plastic balloons to confectionary works of art. With the possibility that this year's birthday party might be pod-sized, now is the time to splurge on a really great cake. Even better, these stunning creations taste as good as they look.

We've found 13 of New Jersey's best bakeries for amazing, custom, painted, and sculpted cakes that you'll be proud to showcase at your kid's next milestone celebration.

If you're not sure how you'll celebrate, we've found 15 creative birthday party venues to celebrate hosting parties in 2021, and have plenty more party planning tips in our Birthday Party Guide. A word to the wise: Be sure to contact your chosen bakery several weeks in advance, since most shops require lead time for special creations, and some book up fast.

8 Jersey Shore Boardwalks to Explore in the Offseason

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Fri, 02/19/2021 - 10:00am

Explore the famous Asbury Park boardwalk or one of its famous neighbors in the offseason.

Winters at the boardwalk are seriously underrated. You can zip down the Parkway, find parking without circling, stroll a crowd-free Jersey Shore boardwalk, and—best of all—jump to the head of the ice cream line.

So, where are the best spots for a crisp, offseason Jersey Shore adventure? We've rounded up eight local boardwalks where you can stretch your legs, grab a treat, and enjoy some family time. While wide-open spaces and the fresh sea breeze are nice, each of these spots boasts some family-friendly offseason perks making them worthy of a day trip.

Find more fun things to do in our Jersey Shore Family Guide.

Where to Throw Birthday Parties in New Jersey in 2021

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Sun, 02/14/2021 - 5:05pm

Glitter and Glam birthday parties offer plenty of pampering and more.

Looking for a unique spot to host your child's next birthday party? Venues with both hands-on fun and enough space to blow out the candles with your bunch safely? We've rounded up 15 exciting options throughout NJ that your birthday kid will love, from private movie theater rentals to heart-pumping go-kart racing.

If you're more comfortable staying in, see our list of virtual and social distancing party ideas for kids, and be sure to visit our Birthday Party Guide for even more ways to celebrate.

Top Indoor Play Spaces in New Jersey Open Now

Submitted by Kaylynn Chiarel... on Fri, 01/15/2021 - 4:42pm

Exceptional Explorers offers open play as well as structured travel-themed classes.

Have your kids caught cabin fever? After a year like 2020, they're definitely not alone. If your typical stash of crafts and board games just isn't cutting it anymore, fear not. From north to south, there are plenty of great NJ indoor play centers, obstacle courses, and trampoline parks that offer the perfect antidote to the winter blues. We've picked 16 super fun indoor play spaces that are sure to be a welcome break to your daily routines. All of the picks on our list are open and welcoming visitors now.

Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

Latest posts by Kaylynn Chiarello

Pages