By Tricia Berwick

High gas prices and a weak economy have forced many American families to reevaluate their vacation plans this summer.   Instead of traveling many miles to amusement parks and other popular tourist attractions, more people are opting for a “staycation” instead.  This new type of “vacation” has become quite the buzzword during these troubled economic times.  Some decide to turn their backyards into a vacation paradise and really get into vacation mode by cutting off contact with the outside world.   Others stay local and visit the sights in nearby towns.  However you decide to enjoy your “staycation” this summer, the important thing is to enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation without spending a lot of money.

If finances are really tight and day trips are not possible, simply enjoy all of the comforts of home without the distractions and responsibilities of everyday work life.  In order for this type of “staycation” to be successful, it requires a lot of effort and willpower to really unplug yourself from outside connections.  The computer and the phone both need to be turned off.  Your office also needs to know that you really are on vacation and that you cannot be disturbed!   Now start changing into relaxation mode and let the “staycation” begin!   Make yourself a fancy breakfast of homemade waffles and fruit.  Have that second cup of coffee you always want but never have time to enjoy.  Read entire newspaper articles instead of just scanning the headlines.  Take time to do the small, daily things you normally don’t have time for as you are rushing out the door.  Who knows?  Maybe you’ll even decide to go back to bed after breakfast.  It is your “staycation,” so take time to lounge and relax as you would on a normal vacation.

After breakfast, decide if you will enjoy your backyard and sit by the pool with a drink and a good book.  If you don’t have a swimming hole, maybe it’s time to invest in that hammock you’ve always wanted.    Instead of going away, some people are turning their backyards into an oasis.  Cindy Harrison of Point Pleasant spent a few extra dollars this summer to maximize her outdoor living space.

“My husband and I have fixed up the backyard so we have a sitting area with an outdoor rug” says Harrison, who is the mother of two-year-old twins.   “The kids have a small pool that they love, too.”

While you are outside, maybe you’ll order in some lunch for a special treat.  Or perhaps you won’t even make it onto your patio or deck.  Maybe you’ll decide to have a “pajama day” and watch movies, pop popcorn, and have some pizza delivered.   Since you’re on vacation, really let loose and abandon all chores for the week—no vacuuming, no making the bed, cleaning out the closets, or pulling weeds.  You wouldn’t do those things on a regular vacation would you?  Whether you are outside or inside, the important thing is to detach yourself from your daily work life and relax.

In fact, for many parents, having a “staycation” is more relaxing, especially if they have younger children.  When you are at home, you don’t have to pack up the pampers, bottles of formula, and special toys.  Everything is right at your disposal.  But, in order to fight off the crankiness, it’s best to keep the kids busy with planned activities.  Create different games and activities, such as a horseshoes or hopscotch.  Let the kids make sno-cones as a special treat.  Maybe you could even rent a movie and a projector from your local library and show the film on the side of your house or on a large sheet.  Invite the neighbors over with their kids and hand out candy and popcorn for the kids to enjoy while watching.

Talk to your kids and ask them what they would like to do on the “staycation.”  Let them plan a list of daily activities they would enjoy doing.   Kids love when they are provided a say in how the family spends free time.  Maybe they want to stay up late and catch fireflies in the dark.  Then set up a tent and spend the night camping in your own yard!  That certainly doesn’t cost a lot of money and definitely helps in preserving the “staycation” budget.

If you do have some money in the bank and would like to venture out, try researching some local points of interest.  How about a museum or a new restaurant?  What about visiting a new park, bringing a picnic lunch and enjoying a good book?  For the ultimate in relaxation, how about visiting a day spa for one or two of their services?

Harrison is certainly feeling the economic crush this summer and had to alter her plans accordingly.  However, with a little ingenuity, she is still planning on enjoying a great summer with her family.

“We had originally planned to fly down to North Carolina and stay with friends but the airline prices are as high as ever because of the fuel costs. So we had to nix that idea and be more creative,” says Harrison.  “We are actually going to a Yankees game with friends and leaving our twins at home. Luckily, my parents have a house down in Cape May so we will go and spend a few nights there with the twins.  They have a pool and we plan on taking them to the Cape May Zoo.  We also visit Bay Head beach a few times a week.   My husband and I will be going to a concert in August, too.   So even though we aren’t packing up and heading to an exotic location we have managed to fill our summer calendar with some fun family and couple activities.”

All of these ideas are just the tip of the iceberg.  Ideas for how to enjoy a restful and relaxing “staycation” are virtually unlimited!  With a little planning and creativity, it can be accomplished.  The important thing to remember is to treat it like a regular vacation, as if you were traveling somewhere.  Remember to take pictures, too.  You wouldn’t forget taking your camera on a vacation, would you?  Your “staycation” should be no different.  You are enjoying yourself and making memories with the ones you love.

Martial Arts schools have grown in numbers over the years.  They are in high demand for children, teenagers and adults.  Some choose a school on the recommendation of a neighbor or friend, it’s close to home or it is inexpensive.  The State of New Jersey mandates no regulation on operating or teaching martial arts.  Hence, the main reason there are so many schools to choose from in a small area.  There are many forms of Martial Arts being taught and the consumer needs to investigate when choosing a school for themselves or their children.  Before registering for martial arts instruction, be aware of what is being taught in the class and what is being said to young children when parents are not around.  It is imperative you know instructors have proper credentials and are knowledgeable in teaching Martial Arts.  Observing classes and instructors, getting recommendations, and interviewing owners is what will aid in the success of learning the appropriate use and correct techniques in martial arts.

An issue that has exploded over the past few months is Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).  MMA is a full contact sport using different fighting techniques from boxing to martial arts and everything in between.  It is performed in a cage-like octagon ring with two opponents and a referee.  It has been described as a no holds barred fighting frenzy.  Since this barbaric entertainment emerged and gained rapid popularity, additional safety rules have been incorporated.  However, MMA takes fighting to a whole new level.  Like boxing, the objective is to knock out your opponent.    Fighters throw each other to the ground and grab hold to make their opponent immobile.  Submission holds gain an advantage since one of the fighters is physically impaired to move.  The other fighter pummels away at the head or body to achieve a severely beaten state even unconsciousness.

This is the new frenzy surrounding Martial Arts.  This type of fighting is affecting children, teenagers and young adults to learn this type of martial arts.  It is being taught on computers; teaching viewers to physically abuse and quite possibly harm themselves and others by mimicking what they see on websites and television.  Welcome to the new wild phenomena of Mixed Martial Arts.

MMA combines grappling, jiu-jitsu and traditional martial arts to overtake an opponent.   Grappling is a lot like wrestling with certain holds, sweeps and throws.  The WWF entertainment factor becomes reality in an MMA cage.  Striking your opponent with your fist or elbow is perfectly legal while you have them pinned to the ground in a choke hold.  Lifting and throwing down your competitor to perform a clinch hold and punching their face or body is also allowed.   Jiu-jitsu is a type of martial arts that teaches choking, submission holds and potentially breaking of bones.  A slightly dazed opponent after a choking move is less likely to offer any resistance.  Immobilizing a fighter to win could lead to unconsciousness, which may or may not be allowed, but is performed.

A 35-year-old MMA fighter, Sam Vasquez, died in Houston, TX on November 30, 2007.  He was hospitalized when he collapsed after being knocked out in the 3rd round of an MMA fight a month earlier.  Doctors performed two surgeries to remove blood clots from his brain.  After the second surgery, he had a stroke and died.    This is the kind of entertainment people of all ages are watching and imitating.

Another instructor in Virginia who teaches Mixed Martial Arts to children kicked an 11-year-old student over 200 times in the abdomen.  This was a challenge to see how many kicks the child could take before falling over.  The child’s parents were not present at the time and did not witness this act.  Parents need to be present at all times when their children are learning karate, jiu-jitsu, tae kwon do or any form of martial arts.  Question instructors and owners on abusive moves and potential dangers you see.

Martial Arts is a precise form of self-defense.  Instructors teach where to hit and how to hit properly without injuring yourself.  Breaking a wooden board the wrong way could fracture or break a hand.  Learning the skill of how to correctly hold your hand while breaking a board allows students the ability to break thicker pieces of wood, as they get older and stronger.  Mastering Martial Arts takes years of practice and teachings.  Utilizing the safety of the techniques ensures no one gets hurt while building character, strength and gaining knowledge.

Parents need to be vigilant that the martial arts being taught to their children, or themselves, is safe.    Schools in the area are beginning to teach a Mixed Martial Arts class andparents may not even be aware there children are learning something dangerous.  Kum Sung stresses safety and proper technique when teaching their students.  No student moves to the next level unless they are proficient in their abilities.  Learning the correct way of hitting, kicking, or breaking a wooden board is what Dr. Sung and his instructors at Kum Sung have mastered over the years.  When locating a Martial Arts school, investigate what they are teaching, how students learn and the credentials of the staff interacting with you or your children.  Dr. Sung describes his Martial Arts teachings as not just a hobby, but a way of life.  This is my heritage and culture this is the same sentiment shared by martial arts masters like Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan and Jet Li.  Ensure you can view all classes and know what your children are doing in the class.  Martial Arts is a safe, physically fit activity that promotes self-esteem and success throughout all aspects of life.  Visit kumsungkarate.com or call and speak to Dr. Sung or one of the instructors.  Be aware of what they will and are actually learning.

Breakwater Beach

Casino Pier, Seaside Heights, NJ

732-793-6488

Cenral Shore region

Starting with their new Toddler Area, it is ideal for the smallest member of any family. With safe, soft play throughout, your little one will slide and have a splashtacular good time.

They have something for everyone. Their Family Play Section is a totally interactive multi-level area for everyone from 3 to 103. With their water slides you will find a different experience with each twist and turn. Also, with hundreds of interactive play elements and dancing fountains you will not stay dry for long. All while having fun with your family and creating life long memories. Watch Out for the Tipping Troller, you may get thousands of gallons of water dumped on you (hopefully there won’t be any sharks). If after playing you are feeling a little chilly, jump into one of 2 new Hot Springs that will easily fit 20 people each.

For the brave at heart, test their Zero – Gravity Racer. This 6 Lane Racing Slide lets you compete against others as you plummet on a mat to the finish line. Forget relaxing in our LazyCrazy River … with cannons being shot off, bubbles coming from every direction and depth charges shooting you with water; you will never know what will be around the next curve. If you do want to relax, you can recline in one of our many lounge chairs throughout the park. Our other amenities include, bathrooms, lockers, changing areas, food
concession, and a gift shop for all your needs. As always, trained lifeguards are on duty to safely monitor all water activities.

This is only the beginning of a multi-year renovation to this new water park. Next year even more and exciting attractions will be added to what will be “The Best Water Park, On The Jersey Shore”

What’s New

Enjoy your day in your own private cabana where you can sit, relax, and take in the sun! Each cabana features 2 chaise lounge chairs, 2 beach-style chairs, 4 large bottles of water, a small locker rental, as well as food & beverage service right to you.

Cabanas are available for rent on a first come/first serve basis. Because of demand, we encourage advance reservations.

2010 Cabana Pricing

Cabana (all day) = $85 plus tax
Cabana (3 hour) = $60 plus tax

Please note that waterpark admission is NOT included with Cabana Rental. Admission into the waterpark is a separate charge. If you rent a cabana for the day, your admission wristbands must be valid for the entire day. Food, drink and gratuities are not included in cabana rental fee.

CoCo Key

Indoor Water Park

Mt. Laurel Marriott, 915 Route 73, Mount Laurel NJ

856-234-7300

Southern NJ

CoCo Key Water Resort, New Jersey’s ultimate indoor water park is located at the Mt. Laurel Marriott. CoCo Key Water Resort is an indoor water park. They have a  relaxing adventure river to  an incredible 40-foot slides, interactive play area, indoor/outdoor spa, state of the art arcade ! Wouldn’t it be great to be able to get away to the tropical islands any time you want without having to leave New Jersey? Now you can, at CoCo Key Water Resort, New Jersey’s Newest & Largest Indoor Water Resort.  CoCo Key combines the relaxation and enchantment of the islands with the wild excitement of a 55,000-sq. ft. indoor water park. Every day is a bright, sunny 84 degrees at CoCo Key, featuring a selection of signature attractions including:

CoCo Key Water Resort is seconds away from exit 4 of the NJ Turnpike, just 12 miles outside Philadelphia and minutes away from Adventure Aquarium and Cherry Hill Mall.

Hurricane Harbor

537 Monmouth Rd, Route 537, Jackson, NJ
732-928-1821

Central NJ

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is conveniently located in Jackson, New Jersey.

Soak up the sun at the one of America’s best water parks — Six Flags Hurricane Harbor! This tropical island paradise offers a million-gallon wave pool, one of the world’s longest lazy rivers, nearly 20 water slides and a massive water playground for wet and wild fun!

What’s New

Tot Tornado whirlwind.  The Tornado, an enormous funnel-shaped water attraction, will offer guests the ultimate in tubing thrills all summer long when it opens May 29.

This exciting new water ride will blast thrill seekers down a 135-foot long vortex tunnel and into a 60-foot wide funnel.  During the journey, guests will blast into the eye of the storm, swishing from side to side by more than 5,000 gallons of water before being released into a calm and refreshing catch pool. Families can enjoy Tornado together in specially-designed, cloverleaf-shaped tubes that seat four.  Those not brave enough to take on this new thrilling adventure can ride out the storm from the observation platform which will feature a spectacular view of all the action.  The Tornado will touch down between the water park’s tube slides “Bada Bing, Bada Bang, Bada Boom!” and the speed slide complex “Jurahnimo, Cannonball & Wahini Falls.”

The Tornado will join a host of thrilling Hurricane Harbor rides and attractions including an enormous half million gallon wave pool, one of the country’s longest “lazy rivers,” a massive, two-story family water playground and nearly 20 high-speed thrill slides.

“We are excited to add a new dimension of thrills to our water park,” said Mark Kane, park president of Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor.  “The Tornado’s innovative shape and enormous size will allow families and friends to experience the ultimate in non-traditional tubing, together.”

Sahara Sams

Indoor Water Park

535 N. Route 73, West Berlin, NJ

856-767-7580

Southern NJ

Imagine traversing a cargo rope obstacle course suspended over a rain forest lagoon, splashing your way through a 410 foot adventure river ride, having 1,000 gallons of water unexpectedly rain down from above, navigating through a wild maze of twisting and turning rapids with your family. Imagine experiencing it all indoors.
Welcome to Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park — New Jersey’s only freestanding Indoor Water Park and state of art arcade.

Sahara Sam’s is an innovative entertainment and activity experience that is a premier family attraction located in southern New Jersey just minutes from Philadelphia and accessible by major highways and bridges in New Jersey and the Philadelphia region. The $23 million venue offers nearly 58,000 square feet of water rides, interactive games, dining, party rooms and much more. Located in West Berlin NJ on a 13-acre parcel along Route 73, Sahara Sam’s represents the next step in providing affordable familydestination fun.

Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park features a wide array of exhilarating, state-of-the-art water rides and attractions, interactive games, and great ticket and party packages.

RETRACTABLE ROOF: One of the most unique aspects of Sahara Sam’s is its one-of-a-kind retractable roof, which opens up to let the outdoors in on sunny days.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Sahara Sam’s remains a warm 84 degrees of low humidity weather all year long thanks to a state-of-the-art temperature control system.

Pirates Cove- Land Of Make Believe

354 Great Meadows Road – Rt. 611, Hope, NJ
908-459-9000

Northwest NJ

For 56 years, the Land of Make Believe has been entertaining families from the tri-state area. Family favorites include our million dollar Action River Ride, a Roller Coaster, Buccaneer Pirate & Wading Pool, Tilt-A-Whirl, Civil War Locomotive, Hayride, Old McDonald’s Farm, Middle-Earth Theater, “Black Hole” #1 Rated Waterslide, Grand Carousel, Sidewinder, Pirates Fort, Pirates Cannonball, the Brand New Pirate’s Plunge, Jump Around Frog and Lots, Lots More.

As New Jersey’s Premiere Family Amusement & WaterPark, the Land of Make Believe features Safe and Wholesome recreation, entertainment and activities for real families like yours. You’ll find Exciting Rides, Shows, Attractions, Games, WaterPark, and Picnic Area on over 30 acres. The Land of Make Believe and Pirate’s Cove has been designed exclusively for an action-packed day of special family fun for parents and their children.

The Land of Make Believe is located in northwest New Jersey, 60 miles west of New York City, and 10 miles east of the Delaware River just off Route 80, exit 12. Nestled in the foothills of the famous Jenny Jump Mountains and State Park, the Land of Make Believe is a landmark in the historic town of Hope. Only one hour from the Lincoln Tunnel or George Washington Bridge, 90 minutes from Philadelphia or Scranton, PA.

Free Parking, Free Picnic Area and Free Water Park included with paid admission!

What’s New

Pirate’s Plunge,

Escape the pirates in this adventurous body slide. 42″ minimum height requirement to ride alone. Children under 36″ must ride w/adult.

New Jersey’s First Indoor Waterpark!

Splash Zone

3500 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-729-5600

Southern NJ

Mixing adrenaline-pumping thrills with family-style fun is our specialty. With more than 16 attractions, Splash Zone Water Park offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Adventure seekers can find super soaking thrills riding the white water rapids of The Beast of The East, the only 6-person raft ride on the east coast. Or roar through total darkness on The Midnight Run, a twisting, turning enclosed tube slide. Speed fans will enjoy testing their skills while soaring down the Speed Dominator. Giggle Bay offers an interactive water playground featuring our famous 1000-gallon bucket of water that crashes down, drenching everyone in its path. And the smallest water park fans can splash in Zoe Zone, a tiny tykes play area featuring a shallow pool of water, fountains, and soft play equipment. Everyone in the family can enjoy slides, body flumes, water blasters, or a meandering ride through the park on an inner tube in Adventure River. And when you’re not getting drenched in the water, Splash Zone offers sunbathing areas, a picnic facility and mouthwatering food at the Zone GrillFree Parking!

Mountain Creek

200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ

973-864-8444

Northern NJ

Mountain Creek Water Park in Northern NJ .The Park offers a variety of water-based activities for all ages and all swim levels.  Height restrictions are posted for all attractions and enforced.  Minors (anyone under the age of 18) must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. The parent/guardian is solely responsible for supervision of their minors. The park does not assume any responsibility or liability for unattended minors. The park cannot accept any responsibility for unattended minors. Children are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

Only you know your own, your child’s, or anyone you are supervising level of swimming skills.  We strongly recommend all Guests under 48″ or who are weak or non-swimmers wear Coast Guard approved lifejackets where appropriate. In the wave pool, all guests under 48″ are REQUIRED to wear a lifejacket and be accompanied by an adult.  We insist that parents keep their children within arms reach for their close supervision on all water activities. Life Jackets are available Free Of Charge at Guest Information located inside the park.  When in doubt, wear a life jacket!

What’s New

Mountain Creek has a whole new twist on coming down the mountain. Introducing the Alpine Pipeline, a high-flying, two person Alpine express that goes from daylight to darkness in the blink of an eye. Come ride the new Alpine Pipeline and discover for yourself the unparalleled sensation of screamin’ down the mountain like a comet through a carwash.  It’s definitely NOT for wimps.

Keansburg Runaway Rapids

275 Beachway Ave, Keansburg, NJ
732-495-1400 Right across the street and just a few steps from The Keansburg Amusement Park is Runaway Rapids Water Park. You can purchase a two park pass so you can go to the waterpark or Amusement Park all day. Runaway Rapids has dozens of rides and interactive attractions. There is also a very nice sunbathing area surrounding the play pool areas. The park has been recently cleaned up a bit and some all  new features have been added to the waterpark.

Raging Waters-Morey’s piers

Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-522-3900

Southern NJ

Enjoy the thrills at Raging Waters Waterpark in Mariner’s Landing Amusement Pier located on Schellenger Ave. in Wildwood, NJ.  Morey’s Piers original beachfront waterpark offers the thrills and the fun things to do that you and your family have come to love on your family beach vacation.  Attractions include:

• Waterpark rides and waterpark attractions for all ages
• Two interactive children’s play areas
• Picnic facility for group outings
• Wreckers beach grille
• Raging Waters waterpark locker shop
• Central location – a great pier!

Ocean Oasis – Morey’s piers

Morey’s Piers, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood NJ

609-522-3900

Southern NJ

Ocean front water park. Kids of all ages will love Bonsai Beach, a 10,000 square foot interactive water play area. Several fun water slides the older kids will enjoy, also. While the kids enjoy the great rides, mom and dad can relax in the all new resort-themed atmosphere, which features include family cabanas and huts, hammocks, massage therapy, and plenty more! Beach Grille and Oasis Cafe are open all day to satisfy the entire family.

Clementon Splash World

114 Berlin Road, Clementon, NJ

856-783-0263

Central NJ

Cool off with over 13,000 square feet of splashing, sliding, drenching, beat-the-heat fun. This Polynesian-themed adventure includes 8 slides, 10 different play platforms and more than 125 sprays, jets, bubbles, streams, squirts, wheels and waterfalls. And high atop the 50-foot tall structure sits the big Kahuna himself—with a giant water bucket that dumps more than 422 gallons of water on the unsuspecting islanders below. Children under 6 years of age must have adult supervision. Some slides have a minimum of 36 inches, others have a minimum of 40 inches.

Thundering Surf Waterpark

8th Street & Bay Ave. Beach Haven (LBI), NJ

609-492-0869

Central Shore Region

Thundering Surf Water Park is definitely the place to spend a few hours with the entire family! We are located in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island, NJ. We have something for all ages! Toddlers can play in our BRAND NEW Kiddie Play Area called “Cowabunga Beach”. This area is designed specifically for ages 9 months to 5 years old. Our new “Dancing Fountains” are something everyone will love! Take some great pictures of your children trying to catch the fountains as they jump and dance around the kiddie area! Our 6 Giant Waterslides are designed for single and double tubes. Parents are able to slide together with a child! Experience our one-of-a-kind “Lazy Crazy River!” While the river is Lazy, cruise around with the current and relax. But don’t get too cozy…. when the river turns “Crazy”… be prepared as a small wave rolls through the river because you’re going to get wet! Along the river, parents and children can interact with others that are outside of the river with slap targets and super soaker water guns. So don’t think that just because you are standing on the interactive bridge that you are going to stay dry! And watch out for the “Giant Tipping Bucket” as you cruise around the river and under the bridge!

Come have some fun…. or just relax and sunbathe on our SunDeck located inside the waterpark so you are never too far from you children!

PLEASE  POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT ANY OF THESE FAMILY- FRIENDLY WATER PARKS. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR OPINIONS,TIPS AND INSIGHTS.

By Tricia Berwick

Eating cool, drippy ice pops on the patio.  Long walks through the neighborhood after dinner.  Trips to the park or to the beach.   Frolicking in the backyard grass sans shoes.   In summertime, the weather is warm and the sun sets later which gives families a lot of time to spend together outdoors.  Hectic school schedules and activities are also on hiatus.  This allows for more freedom to play and chances to strengthen those family bonds.   Whether you’re grilling up burgers on the grill or heading out to play in the surf, summer is a great time for making memories and establishing traditions.

Some families look forward to the start of summer so much, they have a yearly ritual to ring in the beginning of the three-month vacation from homework and soccer practices.

Katie Zebick of Brick loves the tradition her sister has started with her family.  She thinks it’s such a clever idea, that she may even use it with her own brood.

“After my sister prepares breakfast on the last morning of school, she jumps into the pool with her clothes on,” says Zebick who is a mother of three.  “It is her way of celebrating the end of the school year.  Her kids get a kick out of it and think it’s a fun way to start off summer.”

After the backpacks and soccer cleats are put away, families switch gears for a more relaxed, slower pace.  They also look forward to visiting different places and relatives or participating in activities that they may not have had time for during the academic year.  For families living at the Jersey Shore there are numerous places to go to enjoy the best of what summer has to offer.

The Burns family of Point Pleasant feels very fortunate to live in this area of the country.

“We do not travel much in the summer because we just love being at the Jersey Shore,” says Nancy Burns.  “A perfect summer day for our family would be to wake up and have breakfast together, get an early start to the beach and spend the day there.  The boys love the water and boogie boarding!  After returning home for showers and dinner, we usually walk to Hoffman’s Ice Cream in Point Pleasant.”

The Woit family, also of Point Pleasant loves to take in the sights and sounds on the boardwalk.

“We love to eat an early dinner at home and then go up to the boardwalk,” says Woit.  “The kids love to ride the rides and play with their toys in the sand.  It tuckers them out, and then we can put them to bed for a restful night of sleep.  You can also picnic there and watch movies on selected nights.  We love the summer!”

While it’s always nice to pop the kids in the car and head off to a different destination, sometimes the best memories are made right at home.

The Trench family of Keyport, recently traded in their huge gas grill for an old-fashioned charcoal kind.   The family enjoys standing around the fire and roasting marshmallows together.  The kids also love being in the backyard and having some water fun.

“We don’t have a pool, so I love turning on the sprinkler and letting them run around enjoying the simplicity of it all,” says Trench, who also likes to attend fairs and go to the boardwalk during the summer months.  “I also have a small plastic pool and I sit back while they splash around in it.  They always end up making mud pies.”

If your budget is tight and you can’t afford to travel, just use your imagination to create fun activities for your children in the backyard.  On a hot and humid day, they might like to cool off with a family squirt gun battle.  Maybe your kids want to try camping, but you’re not sure if they are up for the full experience in the woods.  How about setting up a play tent and lanterns in the backyard and tell them ghost stories inside their very own tents?  Since the school year is always jam-packed with things to do, slow down the pace and have a family game night and a family movie night each week during the summer.  Let the kids choose what they would like, including snacks for both gatherings.  Sidewalk chalk is also an inexpensive creative outlet which can be used on your patio or driveway.

Wherever you decide to go or whatever you do at home, just remember to have fun with your kids.  Enjoy this break from packing lunches, laying out school clothes, and working on last-minute projects.  Enjoy an ice cream, let the kids stay up a little later, watch some fireworks.  And remember to share a giggle and a smile with your children.  September will be here soon enough!

By  Tricia Berwick

It’s hard to believe that in a few short months, another school year will be completed.  Summer is just around the corner and that means it’s time to start researching day camps for your kids.   Instead of sitting of sitting on the couch, munching on snacks, and flipping on the television switch or the computer, your child will have stimulating activities with peers.  You won’t have to answer the daily question of, “Mom, what are doing today?   Are we doing anything fun?”  If you decide on a camp experience this summer, that question will be taken care of and you can feel at ease that your child will be busy and productive while having a good time.

According to the American Camp Association, (www.acacamps.org), camp encourages children to explore and learn in a nurturing environment.  It’s also a good opportunity for your child to try new activities and to have a better idea of what he or she is good at and feels comfortable doing.   Sending your child to camp is an excellent way for your child to learn how to be independent, too.

Another important reason to send your child to camp this summer is simply to enjoy the fresh air and to experience nature.  Your child will go on guided nature walks and learn to truly appreciate nature.  It’s always great to take a break from the everyday routine and to see something new.  During the school year, kids are always busy with homework and after-school activities.  However, summer is the perfect time to slow down, have some fun, and enjoy the warm weather.  Camp is a great way for your child to do all of these things with his peers.

Before deciding on a camp, it’s a good idea to gather as much information as possible before you commit to one.   A good technique to find out whether a camp would be a suitable fit for your child is to network with other parents.  Getting feedback from those who have already experienced the camp is one of the best ways to determine if the camp would be a good option.  When speaking to parents, be sure to ask questions about what a typical day is like, how competitive the activities are, what the camp-to-counselor ratio is and how the counselors are screened and trained.

It’s also advisable to ask how counselors deal with difficulties that may arise.  For instance, how do they handle problems with discipline?  Do they call parents when there’s a problem?  It’s important to research the camp’s behavior policies before you sign on the dotted line.  Also, it’s not unreasonable to ask for references beforehand and to research the camp’s credentials.  Make sure to keep a checklist of your information to stay organized and focused while compiling research.

Another significant tip in the selection process is to determine what type of camp would work best for your child.  These days, there are many options to choose from, from traditional camps which feature nature and arts and crafts activities, as well as more specialized camps.  Does your child enjoying drawing pictures?  If so, an art camp would be appropriate.  If your child loves to shoot hoops, run the bases, and swim, a sports camp would be ideal. Or if your child likes dance, you could send her to a ballet camp.  Or perhaps even a camp which studies foreign languages or filmmaking.  Decide on a budget that your family can afford and then ask your child for input.

Point Pleasant Beach mother Joanna Madden, says she looks for a camp that can develop her children’s athletic abilities.

“What’s important to me is how well the counselors can coach my kids, especially my older child,” says Madden.  “My nine-year-old is really involved with sports, so finding theright sports camp is a key factor for my family.  If there’s a camp that is designated for a specific skill, I would be more willing to travel.  I also want to make sure the camp has a down-to-earth atmosphere and allows the kids to be social with others.”

Melissa Nagel, a mother of two, concurs with Madden and says that her kids, ages 5 and 3 have benefited from specialized camps in the past.

“The soccer camp we sent the kids to was small, with only three kids to a class which was great,” says the Point Pleasant mom.  “It was very specialized which helped them a lot.”

Other factors to consider are the cost and the location of the camp.  What is your family’s budget?  Sure, you would like your child to have a fun and rewarding summer camp experience, but it’s also important to determine what your family can reasonably afford.  What about location?  Is it better for the camp to be close to your job in case of an emergency, or should your child choose a local camp so he can socialize with kids from the neighborhood?  What about transportation to and from camp?  Will you be able to drive your child to camp or does the facility offer bus service?  Maybe you can coordinate a transportation schedule with another mom.  This way, one parent can take care of drop off and the other mom can be responsible for pickup.  It’s imperative to plan ahead and figure out the details before making a choice.

Once your family has decided on a particular camp, it’s important to register as early as possible.  Many times camps offer discounts if you commit before a certain date.  It’s also wise to book early if you have specific dates in mind that you would like your child to attend camp.

If you’re thinking about sending your child to camp this summer, start researching the Internet, visit some of the local camps and their staff, talk to other parents about their experiences, and ask your child what type of camp he or she would like to attend.   By working together as a team, you and your child will pick the best camp experience for the summer.

Spring is in the air and summer camp is on  everyone’s mind.  Once again Kum Sung will be offering an exciting summer  camp for children ages five through fourteen years old.  Sung Star  Academy will have a summer camp program for children ages one though five  years old at the learning center. There are openings for infants  6 weeks   through 12 months old year  round.

Day trips are  designed to entertain children ages 4 years old and up. Fun Town Pier, Peddles  and Paddles, bowling, movies, Pirate Adventure, Black Beard’s Cave and more is  planned.  Youngsters under the age of four are entertained daily in a  safe environment while at Sung Star Academy.  A developmentally  appropriate curriculum has been created by the director and staff.  It is  designed to provide stimulating and engaging experience, laughter and a great  desire to return to camp!

Water play,  wading pools, sprinklers are readily available daily for our children to cool  off with.  The greatest amount of fun seems to be found at  our in ground pool. Sung Star campers will receive swim lessons as well as free daily swiming.   It is refreshing to see our older and younger siblings catching up with  each other around the pool and outdoor playground. Our water slide, moon  bounce, DJ dance party and spectacular end of the year  celebration all contribute to the KS tradition of summer  fun.

Sports such as soft ball, basket  ball, field hockey, and beach volley ball are offered daily.   Along  with making arts and crafts  kids love to create “art like” edible snacks  and devour them for lunch! Games, contests and in camp competitions are part  of the fun.

Older campers will be  taught the importance of exercise and nutrition.  K.S. programs are  designed and supervised by experienced educators and top fitness experts.  There is also a focus on self confidence,independence, physical activity and  leadership building in a positive atmosphere.

Most importantly the children receive  Martial Arts and karate training weekly.  Intergrated through karate, is  the teaching of inner strength, loyalty, courage, bravery, kindness and most  importantly respect.  Students are exposed to positive and strong  character building. The expectation of K.S. is designed to expose your  children to these behaviors by creating life lessons.  Several parents  have shared that after the camp experience ended their sons/daughters have  become more aware of the place respect holds for  them.

All of the Kum Sung  instructors are high achieving Masters. When instructors are so well trained  in the art and life lesson of martial arts it transcends with ease to the  students, sending a strong message.  Providing this experience came  through years of their own positive experience and training with Grand Master  Kum Sung.  The karate classes are presented on introductory basis as well  as training those that may be of a higher rank.

For children spending their summer at           For children spending their summer at Sung Star Academy, Grand Master and his wife Youn have designed the highly successful program that exposes and begins training youngster at the age of two!  Parents are amazed by the quick growing achievements they can actually see in their toddlers in minimal time!

A plus for our working parents is that we offer before and after care hour services from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm without an additional charge! The traditional camp day is from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Kum Sung and Sung Star camps are open for the entire summer beginning on June 15th through August 28th.

For our Brick campers transportation is provided to the main camp site.  Drop off is a 7:30 am and the bus departs at 8 am.  End of the day pick up is at 4pm. In addition, Brick campers are invited to attend additional karate classes at no additional cost. ( Brick & Toms River Locations)

Many of our children and families are return campers .  Whether you are  a new  camper or a returning camper, the  Kum Sung  experience is fantastic fun!  According to a KS family, “what the children experienced during K.S. camp were positive experiences and life lessons!”

For More Information

Visit our website at: www.Kumsungkarate.com

732-341-8800 www.sungstaracademy.com

732-341-7500

Zipline, swimming and horseback riding are highlights at Day Camp with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore

Fun is the number one priority this summer at Amity Acres Day Camp and Sacajawea Day Camp.

At convenient locations in Waretown and Farmingdale, campers choose from activities that include zip line, swimming, arts and crafts and performing arts.

Specialty programs include teen leadership development, cooking and horse care and riding. To maximize the fun, optional campfires and overnights are available as well.

“The joy that I felt that she was able to learn new things and meet new friends is overwhelming,” said the mom of a camper from Keansburg. “That’s what I remember the Girl Scouts to be from when I was younger – sharing with one another, learning new things and having fun.”

“Girl Scout camp was a wonderful experience for my daughter!” added an Ocean County mother whose 8-year-old daughter attended Amity Acres Day Camp. “Everyday she was so proud of herself for trying something new. We can’t wait until camp next summer!”

Girls ages 5 and through 15 are welcome at Amity Acres Day Camp, which runs from June 28 through August 20. A special Twilight Camp is available afternoons the week of June 21 to get girls excited for the summer of fun ahead.

“Amity Acres is an exceptional place for day camp. They had very good staff there; every one was nice, including other campers,” said the mother of a 9-year-old camper.

In addition to girls 5-15, Sacajawea Day Camp also offers a Tag-A-Long unit for brothers ages 5 thorough 11. Among the new program additions this year is a Firefly Unit for 3- and 4-year-old girls and boys.

“I’ve gone to Camp Sacajawea for the past three years. I would like to say thank you to you and all my counselors. I had a great time at camp. I love the activities. I especially like swimming, archery, boating, the Thursday night campfire and learning about nature. However, I don’t like the bugs! You are doing a great job,” said a camper from Seaside Heights.

Operated by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Amity Acres and Sacajawea Day Camps provide girl-led and girl-focused activities, rooted in Girl Scout values and traditions. Its counselors support, nurture and care for girls, encouraging them to try new activities and make new friends.

“My daughter, Abigail attended Sacajawea and she loves it,” said a mother from Middletown. “She has worn her Camp Sac shirt every day; I had to wash it every night. My husband just bought two more!”

Outdoor fun is all around as girls safely fly through the trees on a zip line, paddle around the scenic lake in a canoe, kayak or paddleboat, or learn to take aim at success at the archery range.

Bus service, before and after care options make life easy for parents. Basic camp costs start at only $135 per week at Amity Acres Day Camp and $220 per week at Sacajawea Day Camp. Many discounts are available to make a summer of fun more affordable.

For more information about Amity Acres Day Camp, visit www.amityacresdaycamp.com or call (732) 751-2755. Sacajawea Day Camp can be reached at www.sacajaweadaycamp.com or call (732) 751-2766.

Parents may be familiar with The Goddard School® and its exceptional academic program for children from six weeks to six years old, but are parents as familiar with Goddard’s summer program? The summer program is a unique blend of fun and learning.

Goddard’s energetic teams of teachers plan summer days filled with developmentally appropriate activities that foster children’s skill building, self-confidence, and cognitive development. Children learn about creepy crawlers, send letters to pen pals, and ‘travel’ to the stars in a positive atmosphere that offers the ideal balance to the school year.

As important as the learning component is to parents, an equally important factor is the opportunity for children to socialize and build memories that will last a lifetime.  Every aspect of the summer program at The Goddard School® takes these corresponding needs into account.

Goddard’s exceptional summer program includes:

• Science and Nature

• Arts and Crafts

• Drama

• Computers and Technology

• Literature and Language

• Cooking

• Music and Movement

• Sports and Games

• Manners

• Special Visitors

Goddard’s summer program is parents’ choice for a safe and nurturing program.   Each school develops a unique learning experience for the children in their neighborhood.  Teachers create lesson plans based on Goddard Developmental Guidelines in order to provide a stimulating experience full of age-appropriate activities and oodles of fun.

As important as the learning component is to parents, an equally important factor is a safe environment.  Goddard answers this aspect with its comprehensive Goddard Quality Assurance Review.  While Goddard Schools must maintain state regulations, they are additionally required to meet the stringent standards of Goddard QA to ensure health and safety as well as curriculum standards in their schools.

Goddard Schools’ summer calendars include special visitors and cultural events throughout the summer.  Visitors provide exciting learning opportunities, in a safe environment, and may include, community helpers; performances by storytellers, musicians, and magicians; as well as outreach programs through local museums.

To learn more about the Goddard

summer program in your

neighborhood, please call

1-800-GODDARD or visit www.goddardschool.com.

Imagine a week where you go on a field trip on Monday, went swimming on Tuesday, had water play on Wednesday, moon bounce on Thursday, had a special guess visitor on Friday at your ultimate scavenger hunt pajama party.  Imagine that days are filled with science experiments, fun games, education, research and lot of arts and crafts.  YOU CAN”T WAIT TO RETURN TOMORROW.

We have planned summer camp activities filled with fun educational experience to create memories that will last a life time. From visiting the Statue of Liberty and Eliis Island to taking a cruise to see dolphins in their natural habitat to hands on experience at the Liberty Center, we have you covered.

One day your children are scientists discovering new facts with fun experiments, digging for fossils at a park and net fishing identifying different local aquatic species. Another week they are artistes at a live play, and being part of a silent masquerade ball where they have to use clues to find the missing jewel.  They will be pirates and take a real voyage and find the villain and win the prize. They will swim weekly and be entertained every week.  They will have so much fun they won’t even know they are learning.  And if you don’t tell we promise we won’t.

Join us at Tutor Time where learning is fun, because it’s always a fun day at Tutor Time.

Choose from our CUB CAMP for children ages 3-5years and ADVENTURE CAMP for children ages 5-12years old.

Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty * Poricy Park Fossil Hunt

Pirate Adventures * Cattus Island Beach Combing

Point Pleasant Beach and Amusement Park * Gymboree

Creative Experience * Bagel Making at Shore Bagels & Deli

Point Pleasant Aquarium * Weekly swimming

Discovery Children’s Museum * Sky Line Dolphin Cruise

Classes now forming for Sports,Parent/Child, Tumbing and

Music Classes.

732-262-0037

There are so many fun and exciting activities that will take place at Ocean Gymnastics Academy’s Sizzling Summer Camp.  Gymnastics plus so much more fun fill each and every moment of our camp.  As in previous years, our campers tend to educate their parents with facts obtained from each of the weeklythemes.  This year’s themes include:

*UNDER THE SEA* SUMMER FUN

*KNIGHTS,PRINCESS,AND CASTLES

* MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

*EXTINCT AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

* GO WITH THE FLOW

At Ocean Gymnastics Academy children are respected for their feelings, supported for their desire to explore, and encouraged to feel powerful.  Our goal is to help our campers gain a sense of competence in all areas of development within our camp.  At all times the development of our campers self-esteem and confidence is of paramount importance.

Ocean Gymnastics Camp is extremely fast paced, and there is never a dull moment.  Campers constantly rotate from project to project, to gymnastics, to projects, to snack, and back to gymnastics.  A stage provides campers with the unique opportunity to entertain fellow campers with joke telling, songs, dance, or whatever else they would like to perform.  IT’S ALL ABOUT OUR CAMPERS!

Allow your child to experience and grow in a loving, fun, and safe atmosphere which encourages positive self-esteem and fun learning.

WE KNOW HOW TO HAVE FUN AT

OCEAN GYMNASTICS’ SUMMER CAMP!!!

1200 Fischer Blvd. • Toms River

732-270-4500

Help your kids avoid the summer slide with Mathnasium of Toms River’s MATH CAMP! Summer is a great time to catch up and get ahead!  In our relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables students to focus on what they need most. Students keep their minds active throughout the summer months by participating in programs designed to develop, maintain, and challenge their math skills and understanding.

According to directors Wayne Gray, Barbara Koehler, and Neil Rankin, all students can excel in school and on standardized tests when they’re given the chance to really understand the materials. When they start the school year prepared, without losing two or three months of knowledge, the results astound parents.  All of a sudden, homework and tests are a totally different experience!

Mathnasium of Toms River is offering a MATH CAMP for July and August.  Students can attend Mathnasium for as little as 4 weeks and as long as 9 weeks. The center will be open from 10AM – 12PM and from 3PM - 7PM Monday to Thursday. Students are encouraged to attend two times a week for one hour each session.

The MATH CAMP programs are specifically designed to help children get ready for the next school year in a more relaxed environment.  In addition, students who will be taking Algebra, Geometry, or Algebra II in the fall can work on a Preview Course at Mathnasium during the summer.   Mathnasium’s MATH CAMP students find learning math is fun, rewarding, and even inspiring!

For more information on

Mathnasium of Toms River, or to register for a MATH CAMP session, please call 732-255-MATH(6284)

or send an email to tomsriver@mathnasium.com

BBQs,Beaches, & Better Grades!

Eagle’s Crest Summer Camp

“WHERE FRIENDSHIPS LAST FOREVER”

Quality and Affordable Summer Camp for every family!

Summer camp is about personal growth, friendships and fun. Our job as camp professionals is to create an atmosphere that enables kids to experience the freedom of summer in ways that they could not at home. It is an opportunity for campers and staff alike to build new friendships and experience new things.

At Holy Family’s Eagle’s Crest Summer Camp we try to think of ourselves as cruise directors giving these young people a different experience each day that they attend camp.  Our great facility enables us the opportunity to provide sports, water activities, fine arts, carnivals and so much more.

We see our campers as “unique” and unique children need unique opportunities. At camp they get to do things that they never did before. Our best days are when campers do not want to leave camp or leave saying, “guess what I did today”!

Most camps offer similar activities. But we offer something that most camps can only hope to achieve.  All of our counselors are former students.  Every counselor has a special tie to Holy Family School and when people care about something it creates a very special place!

Our principal goals are to help our campers learn something about themselves and to promote a healthy respect for each other and the values that we stand for.  Our Kinder, Junior, and Teen Leadership Camps do exactly that, by creating a one of a kind camp experience for all.