Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in newark, NJ

How to Celebrate Earth Day in Northern Jersey

by Vanessa Druckman

April 14, 2009

Earth Day is coming up fast and it's really a holiday worth preparing for to make sure it makes an impact on your kids. There are many things that you can do to mark the day, to make sure it really registers with them. And the greatest part is that most of them are fun!

1. Plant a tree in your garden. This is planting season, so whether you're talking about a rhododendron bush or a new maple tree, get those shovels out and give your kids a chance to contribute to your landscaping. They'll be thrilled to track your new addition's progress even if they don't fully get how the new tree is helping to balance out the reforestation efforts in the world.
2.  Visit a local recycling plant. This is a great way to show your kids what happens to the garbage we throw out so carelessly. Seeing all those cans and bottles in one place will really make an impact on them.
3. Change your light bulbs and get your kids to help.
4. Save Gas. Try to not drive your car for the day. Walk or bike to school. Skip to the park.
5. Go Local. Visit a local farm to learn about how to help them and start buying locally.
6. Get Entertained. Watch March of the Penguins or Planet Earth.
7. Clean Up! Head to a local park and pick up trash for an hour.

But most easily of all, just enjoy being outside!  Read more...

The Little Green Thumb

by Vanessa Druckman

October 12, 2008

My kids love dirt. If I don't put them to work in the garden, they'll use it as a big sandbox, digging up worms and stones and creatively placing them on the driveway. It works out much better for all of us if I include them in my gardening projects. When we're not hard at work reseeding the lawn or planting impatiens, I have a few field trips up my sleeve to satisfy their gardening urges:  Read more...

Top 5 Things To Do Outside in Northern New Jersey when the Weather Clears

by Vanessa Druckman

October 08, 2008

After a few days of rain, the house is a mess and the kids are overflowing with nervous energy. The minute the sun gives us a little ray of hope, we are all out the door, ready for an outdoors adventure. Depending on how exhausted I am after being cooped up in the house too long, there are a few places I like to head to. The easiest place is the Ridgewood Duck Pond . There's a lot to do  Read more...