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Summer is just around the corner, and for parents in the Newport and Hamilton Park area of Jersey City, that means one exciting thing: summer camp planning! From nature-based adventures to enriching academic programs and classic camp fun, our vibrant community offers a fantastic array of options for every age and interest. We’ve compiled a handy guide based on popular local camps, giving you a snapshot of what to expect in terms of age range, timing, and pricing. Let's dive i

We’ve broken down the 2026 heavy hitters by vibe, age, and location so you can stop scrolling through endless parent groups and start booking. Here is your definitive guide to the best local camps in Downtown Jersey City. For the Little Artists & Creative Souls Tiny Greenhouse | 498 Jersey Ave Website: https://www.tinygreenhousejc.com/ Timing: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Estimated Pricing: ~$675/week (supplies included) Why it’s great: Located in a sunny, plant-filled studio, this c

While big-box stores are great, there is something so special about finding holiday books from small, independent publishers. They often focus on the most authentic details, the sweetest community values, and the kinds of stories that truly feel like home. For the 2 to 3-year-old crowd, I’ve found five gems from smaller houses like Kar-Ben, Apples & Honey Press, and Kalaniot Books. These are sturdy, soulful, and perfect for tiny hands to hold during the Festival of Lights. 1.

When the temperature drops, Jersey City families don’t have to stay cooped up. Whether you want to glide outdoors with a view of the Manhattan skyline or stay warm in a climate-controlled NHL-sized arena, there are plenty of options for every skill level. Here is your guide to the best ice rinks in and around Jersey City for winter. 1. Newport Skates (Newport, Jersey City) Located right on the waterfront, Newport Skates is the go-to for an iconic Jersey City experience. It’s

From infant music sessions to developmental gym classes, Jersey City has no shortage of ways to bond with your little one. Whether you're looking to socialize with other local parents or help your baby hit those early milestones, these nine spots offer some of the best "Grown-Up and Me" experiences in town. 1. Krayon Park | 206 Van Vorst The Vibe: An imaginative indoor playground that feels like a neighborhood living room. Located in the Downtown area, Krayon Park is a colorf

Watching a toddler experience Christmas is like seeing magic in real-time. They are obsessed with the "sparkles," the "ho-ho-hos," and the general cozy chaos of December. While the classics are great, I love hunting for books from independent publishers—they often have more unique art styles and stories that feel like a secret treasure you’ve discovered for your family. For the 2 to 4-year-old crowd, here are five Christmas gems from independent houses that deserve a spot in

Cooking with kids is about more than just making a meal—it’s about curiosity, building confidence, and maybe a little bit of flour-dusted chaos. Introducing your children to the kitchen early helps them develop fine motor skills and a willingness to try new flavors. If you're looking for the perfect starting point, here are 4 standout cookbooks designed to make cooking with kids fun, safe, and delicious. The America's Test Kitchen Kids: My First Cookbook is a gold standard f

Living in the Jersey City and Hoboken area means having world-class parks and—luckily for parents—world-class youth programming. If your preschooler is ready to trade screen time for gym time, finding the right "starter" sport is key. At ages 2 to 5, it’s less about the scoreboard and more about burning energy, following directions, and developing those crucial motor skills. Here are seven local favorites that will get your little ones moving, from the soccer field to the doj

The Reggio Emilia approach—which values the child as a "competent researcher" and treats the environment as the "third teacher"—is the hallmark of several standout local institutions. Here are the primary Reggio-inspired schools in Jersey City, including their 2026–2027 tuition and what makes them unique. 1. The Scandinavian School of Jersey City | 210 9th St, Jersey City Approx. Annual Tuition (2026-2027) Preschool: $2,900 monthly Forest Kindergarten: $3,150 Monthly What Mak

There is something about a bookstore that feels like a shared deep breath for parents. It’s quiet (mostly), it’s tech-free, and it’s a place where "just looking" is actually encouraged. Whether I’m trying to kill an hour before a nap or looking for that perfect birthday gift, these four shops are my absolute go-to’s. From the cobblestones of Downtown JC to the cozy nooks of Tribeca, here is the "Mom-POV" on where to find your next favorite read. 1. WORD Bookstore (Jersey City

If you’re currently staring at a pack of diapers and wondering if you can just keep your child in them until they go to college, I see you. Potty training isn't just a milestone for the toddler; it’s a mental endurance test for the parents. I’ve spent way too many hours in "parenting rabbit holes" looking for the magic solution. While every kid is a unique little puzzle, these three books are the ones most of us JC moms swear by (even if we don't always love the "tone"). Here

Whether you’re prepping for those "First Haircut" photos or just trying to tame the wild mane your toddler woke up with, finding a stylist who can handle a wiggly three-year-old is a local mom's Olympic sport. From salons with interactive LED floors to old-school barbers who treat your little guy like a VIP, here are 8 spots in Jersey City and Hoboken that make the "big chair" way less scary. 1. Just 4 Kids Salon | 720 Monroe St Suite E313, Hoboken The OG of kids' salons in t