I love Mrs. Michelle! I travel 30 minutes because we have built a wonderful relationship with her and she has created a safe space for my kids to express themselves freely. She cares so much about her patients. My son has come a long way since we started our journey with her.
—T.P., UNION
ALEXANDRA D’AGOSTINI, MD
Pediatric Orthopedist/Orthopedic Surgeon
Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne
My son spent three weeks in the ICU at Morristown Medical Center. Dr. D’Agostini sat with me and my son every day, walking us through every step of a horrible situation. Her follow-up, attention to detail and her amazing energy and passion for orthopedics I truly believe saved my son’s life.
—A.C., BUDD LAKE
EILEEN A. ZHIVAGO, MD, FAPA
Psychiatrist
Allendale, Westfield
Dr. Zhivago has been helping my son for years. She has worked with the school district and with us to best help him. We have seen such a change it’s been amazing. We are lucky to have found her.
—B.G., MAHWAH
JOHN COLLINS, MD, FAANS
Pediatric Neurosurgeon
Hackensack, Hazlet, Jersey City, Morristown, Rockaway
Our daughter had severe headaches for two years and everyone told her everything was fine. Within two months of the initial consultation, Dr. Collins performed surgery to fix the issue. My daughter is now pain-free and able to rejoin all her friends, leading a normal teenager’s life.
—M.S., MORRISTOWN
JENNIFER HARTMAN, MS, CCC-SLP, COM
Speech Therapist
Fairfield, Sparta
Jennifer Hartman has been an integral part of our daughter’s team at Brave Wings! We struggled with feeding when our daughter was born and she has provided us with endless support. She is an amazing speech pathologist and you can tell how passionate she is about what she does.
—A.Z., SADDLE BROOK
DAMIAN W. SORVINO, MD
Otolaryngologist
Morristown
My 3-year-old son has been under Dr. Sorvino’s care for two sets of ear tubes and an adenoidectomy. Dr. Sorvino has done an amazing job helping restore his hearing health and also making him feel comfortable while going through treatment. My son is overjoyed every time he gets to see Dr. Sorvino for a checkup.
—D.L, MENDHAM
See our full list of parent-recommended medical professionals at njfamily.com/thelist
New Jersey in Bloom
From the stunning cherry blossoms in Essex County Branch Brook Park to the gorgeous tulip fields at Holland Ridge Farms in Cream Ridge, springtime in New Jersey is spectacular! In this issue, we’re taking you outside with a guide to some of the state’s best parks, trails and outdoor gems—from beach plum blooms at Island Beach State Park to birdwatching at Duke Farms, where you might catch a glimpse of a Bald Eagle or the endangered Northern Harrier. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker, casual stroller, or just craving some fresh air, NJ’s 4,500+ miles of trails have so much to offer. Turn to page 15 to learn about six of our favorite outdoor spots to take the kids, and go to njfamily.com/hike for a list of family-friendly trails to hit this spring.
We’re also celebrating the importance of community and sharing how New Jersey mom Ronnie Koenig, who has a daughter with autism, found her people on page 23. And on page 46, you’ll learn about how wellness advocate Deb Belfatto is building a community of women dedicated to health equity for all.
Thanks to our own community of readers, we’re excited to share our 9th annual list of the Best New Jersey Lawyers for Families! This list is a labor of love built from nominations by parents who’ve turned to these exceptional attorneys during some of life’s most challenging times.
These lawyers are highly recommended in all aspects of family law, from special needs advocacy to estate planning and beyond. Turn to page 33 to see the full list or go to njfamily.com/bestnjlawyers to share it. And if you don’t see a lawyer who you think deserves to be on the list, head to njfamily.com/lawyers to nominate them!
APRIL/MAY 2025 | NJFAMILY.COM VOLUME 35, ISSUE 1
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR | DINA EL NABLI
EDITOR@NJFAMILY.COM
ART DIRECTOR | LEEZA HERNANDEZ
MANAGING EDITOR | JENNIFER AMATO
CONTRIBUTORS
JENNIFER SALVATO DOKTORSKI
REBECCA HASTINGS
RONNIE KOENIG
JENNIFER LESSER
NAYDA RONDON
PRODUCTION DESIGNER
ROSA M. JOSEPH
PROJECT & BUSINESS MANAGER
ERICA BARTON
DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING
MARCY HOLETON
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES
ANN CUSACK
CATHY GROTE
DEBBIE LUBRANSKI
PAMELA PETERSON
ERIN SALMAN
ANDREA THORNE
FOUNDER | CINDY MIRONOVICH
The acceptance of advertising by New Jersey Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertising rates and schedules, and subscription requests may be addressed to Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. Contact New Jersey Family by emailing editor@njfamily. com, or by visiting our website, njfamily.com. New Jersey Family is a woman-owned business and has been recognized for editorial and design excellence by the Parenting Media Association.
New Jersey Family is published by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. Send address changes to us here. Reproduction of New Jersey Family in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright 2025 by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc. Circulation audit by CVC, Circulation Verification Council.
THIS BEAUTIFUL YELLOW WARBLER WAS SPOTTED AT PALMYRA COVE NATURE PARK.
“My
MOMJust for
PERFECTLY PAIRED
Wine and chocolate are never a bad idea, and this bold Napa Cab comes with artisan TCHO chocolate (including a super decadent Napa Noir chocolate bar). Eat Chocolate, Drink Wine Gift Set, Clif Family. $100, cliffamily.com
POSITIVELY GRATEFUL
Start your day with gratitude using the daily prompts, affirmations and reflections in this journal. Each helps cultivate positivity and mindfulness. The Five Minute Journal, Intelligent Change. $28, amazon.com
THOUGHTFUL MOTHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERY
BUDGET
SUN READY & CHIC
Lightweight and packable, this cute raffia bucket hat will be a staple for daily walks, beach vacays and beyond. Lana Packable Bucket Hat, Gigi Pip. $138, gigipip.com
CRISP & CLASSIC This French perfume dates back to 1806, when Jean Marie Farina used Mediterranean flowers, plants and hesperidia to create the signature fragrance. This one blends bright citrus with aromatics for a classic scent. Jean Marie Farina Eau de Cologne, Roger & Gallet. $39.95 (3.3 oz), us.roger-gallet.com
BETTER BAG This buttery-soft bag comes in multiple colors and easily converts from hand to shoulder to crossbody. A side pocket keeps your phone accessible, too. The Aoyama Bag, Lo & Sons. $228, loandsons.com
GOLD STANDARD Set to launch April 1st, this luxe modern gold-plated cuff, accented with pearls, is a timeless piece that goes with everything. Signature Hinge Twin Cuff, Dean Davidson. $398, oliveandcocoa.com
Breaking the Silence on
EATING DISORDERS
HOW TO SPOT THE SIGNS AND GET HELP FOR YOUR KID
By DINA EL NABLI
As social media’s influence has grown, so has the prevalence of eating disorders among teens. In New Jersey alone, nearly 800,000 people—about 9 percent of the population—will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime, according to Harvard University’s Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders (STRIPED). Nationwide, the impact is even greater, with approximately 30 million children, adolescents and adults affected, according to RWJBarnabas Health.
If you're worried your child is struggling with an eating disorder, how can you address it? What’s the best way to start the conversation? And where can you turn for help? We asked experts to share their insights on identifying the signs, offering support, and finding the right resources.
Where to Get Help
2NDFLOOR
New Jersey’s youth helpline and app 24/7 anonymous free support
Call or text: 888-222-2228 • 2ndfloor.org
THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF EATING DISORDERS nationaleatingdisorders.org
THE RENFREW CENTER
Paramus and Mount Laurel • renfrewcenter.com
GENPSYCH EATING DISORDER PROGRAM
Various NJ locations • genpsych.com
More early warning signs include:
Changes in eating habits: Counting calories obsessively, avoiding meals, binge eating, or excessive exercise after eating.
Physical symptoms: Fatigue, dizziness, fainting, thinning hair, and feeling cold even in normal temperatures.
Behavioral shifts: Increased anxiety, perfectionism, mood swings, or social withdrawal.
Clothing choices: Wearing oversized clothing to hide their body.
Weight fluctuations: Sudden weight loss or gain, frequent use of the scale, or reliance on diet pills or laxatives.
WHAT TO SAY—AND WHAT NOT TO SAY
SPOTTING THE SIGNS
Parents are often unaware of how much their kids are eating or what they’re eating, especially during the teen years, says Susan Brill Goldberg, MD, Chief of Adolescent Medicine at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick. Denial about eating disorders is common, and there are many misconceptions, too.
Many people mistakenly assume kids with eating disorders are underweight. “We know that in binge eating disorder or bulimia, kids are often of normal weight or are overweight,” Goldberg says. “Even teens with anorexia nervosa may be of normal weight. Teens who start out overweight and lose weight quickly often use unhealthy eating practices to do so but are mistakenly complimented on their appearance or weight loss by family members or even medical caregivers.”
Another overlooked reality is that boys can have eating disorders, too, though their behaviors may be masked by a desire to “gain muscle” or “get in shape,” which parents and coaches often encourage. “It’s also important to recognize that an eating disorder differs from a diet in that it is a complex biopsychosocial disorder, not a lifestyle choice or preference,” Goldberg adds.
Beyond weight loss or weight gain, parents should watch for changes in mood, such as a noticeable increase in stress or selfcriticism, says Patricia Behrens, M.S.W., volunteer/outreach coordinator at 2NDFLOOR, a free youth helpline and app that provide 24/7 support, 365 days a year, to New Jersey youth ages 1024. Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, cutting food into tiny pieces, or hiding food can also be warning signs, Behrens says. If something feels off, trust your instincts and start a conversation.
Bringing up concerns about eating habits can be di cult, but how you approach it makes all the difference. Instead of saying, “You’ve lost weight, what’s going on?” try: “I’ve noticed that you seem more stressed. I’ve noticed these behavior changes, and I’m concerned,” Behrens suggests. From there, it’s important to just listen and encourage the start of a conversation without judgment, she adds. Don’t raise concerns at the dinner table, and make sure there’s privacy when you bring it up.
SUPPORT AND TREATMENT
Recovering from an eating disorder is a process that involves both medical treatment and emotional support. Behrens suggests starting with your child’s school counselor, who can recommend resources and programs to help. Next, have your child evaluated by a healthcare professional familiar with eating disorders, such as a pediatrician, an adolescent medicine specialist, and/or a psychiatrist.
“Usually, patients can be best treated by a team of clinicians at home in an outpatient setting. This team should include a registered dietitian skilled in working with children with eating disorders, along with a mental health professional such as a psychologist or licensed clinical social worker to allow for clinical support and counseling as treatment is initiated,” Goldberg says. A board-certified psychiatrist should also be involved, she adds. Some patients require more longterm treatment in residential programs.
Parents play an important role throughout treatment, including participating in therapy. “Family-based therapy requires parents to plate all meals and enforce completion of meals for those children who have restrictive-type eating disorders,” Goldberg says, adding that siblings may also need therapeutic support.
Early intervention can help prevent long-term health consequences, says Behrens, and teaching healthy habits now will go a long way toward boosting your child's physical and mental health.
Easter Bunny EGGspress
The Wild West City adventure begins the moment you enter the town with nonstop western shows and reenactments all day long. Interact with our historians and craftsmen who offer daily demonstrations or immerse yourself in the experience panning for gold at the Mine or roping a steer at the Cowboy Corral. Discover the Wild West in every season at Wild West City!
Spring to it in Jersey! From wow waterfalls to u-pick flowers in bloom and endless kid-friendly getaways. High-flyin’ thrill rides and fabulous hit-the-road itineraries. It’s one wow after another. Find your wow at visitnj.org. let’s be social #visitnj
HURD PARK | DOVER
OUTWARD BOUND
We’re shouting out six of our favorite New Jersey spots to enjoy the great outdoors this spring!
From wildflowers and Osprey to Peregrine falcons and river otters, New Jersey’s 4,500plus miles of trails offer plenty of springtime adventures for hardcore hikers, nature enthusiasts, and warm-weather walkers. Where to begin? We asked Dawn McClennen, owner and curator of njHiking.com, a site with 200-plus detailed hike guides across NJ. “We’ve personally hiked, biked or kayaked everything on the site at least once, but often multiple times,” she says. Visitnj.org and njHiking.com are great resources, and so is the book AMC’s Best Day Hikes in New Jersey. In the meantime, we’ve narrowed it down to a sampling of some of our favorites.
By Jennifer Salvato Doktorski
PALMYRA COVE NATURE PARK
1335 Rte. 73, Palmyra palmyracove.org
Prepare to be en-raptored! This hidden gem is an urban oasis along a developed area on the Delaware River, across from Philadelphia. “It’s an outstanding birding site,” says Executive Director John D. Moore. It’s also a place where observation and technology come together to teach visitors about nature, space exploration and conservancy, he says. There are 250 acres to explore, including one mile of beachfront, and an Environmental STEM Center open Monday through Friday. Spring is peak migration season, drawing hundreds of bird watchers. “More than 300 species of birds have been sighted here in general, but during that particular time, it’s an amazing place to see warblers,” says naturalist Mason Kramer. These rare migratory birds sport plumage in beautiful colors. Bald Eagles and Osprey are often spotted overhead, and there’s a Peregrine Falcon nest on the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge with a bird cam that can be accessed online and in the Environmental STEM Center. In the cove, two massive beaver lodges can be viewed from the observation decks. “We also have mink here and we’ve had river otter sightings,” Kramer adds.
ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK
S. Bayview Ave. & 24th Ave., Seaside Park friendsofibsp.org
Island Beach State Park’s 10-mile-long ocean and bayfront reserve on the tip of the Barnegat Peninsula is a wonderful place year-round to hike, bike or walk to observe wildlife and natural beauty. One of the park’s most iconic plants is the beach plum, which blooms in late April and early May, and has beautiful, white flowers. Every September the park hosts a festival featuring beach plum-flavored ice cream, says Paul Lang, trustee of the Friends of Island Beach State Park. “One unique little plant, the pear cactus, has a beautiful yellow flower when it blooms,” he says. Along the trails on the western side of the park, hikers may spot warblers, wrens and sparrows. Along Barnegat Bay it’s possible to catch a glimpse of the Great Blue Heron and white egrets. “If you’re lucky you can see some of the Osprey fishing,” Lang adds. Every March, male Osprey arrive in Island Beach State Park to establish their territory. “The female comes a few weeks later. It’s the same pair. They mate for life,” he says. The nest is visible by an Osprey cam on the Friends of Island Beach State Park website. There are wheelchair-accessible ramps to the ocean and bay. At Parking Lot Number 7, Fisherman’s Walk, and from the southernmost tip of the park, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular view of the inlet and Barnegat Lighthouse on Long Beach Island.
DUKE FARMS
1112 Dukes Pkwy. W., Hillsborough Twp. dukefarms.org
Duke Farms is a nature preserve with over 5 miles of wheelchair- and strolleraccessible trails that wind around 10 lakes. It’s a wonderful place for families to experience nature, says Lauren Guastella, communications manager. There are more than 500 species of plants and more than 300 species of birds. In the spring, visitors can expect to see native wildflowers in bloom. In the grasslands behind the Farm Barn, visitors can see birds up close. A pair of Bald Eagles live in a nest in a sycamore tree on the property and the website has an Eagle cam. As a living lab, Duke Farms focuses on conservation and habitat restoration and visitors can see the American Kestrel, which is threatened, and the Northern Harrier, which is endangered, and witness conservation efforts firsthand. The Farm Barn Café serves nutritious options from locally sourced ingredients.
Known as “The Gateway to the Pine Barrens,” this Ocean County park provides a great introduction to New Jersey’s famous Pinelands, McClennen says. “I like to suggest this park for kids because of the play trail and nature center,” she says. The Jakes Branch Nature Center has informational exhibits, live animals and environmental programs. A five-story observation deck offers a panoramic view of the Pine Barrens. There is a short play trail that features playground equipment along the route. There are eight miles of trails, McClennen says, but none are too difficult. The 3.9-mile Tindey Trail Loop is considered easy, with a surface of packed dirt and pine needles. On average, it takes more than an hour to complete and is popular with bikers, hikers and runners. Dogs too! As long as they’re leashed.
115 Clifton Ave., Newark
branchbrookpark.org
Forget Washington, D.C. did you know Essex County Branch Brook Park has the largest collection of Japanese blossoming cherry trees in the springtime in the United States? Located in Newark, with portions extending into Bellville, Branch Brook was the first county park in the nation. Each April, when the cherry trees are in full bloom, tens of thousands of visitors descend upon the park with its 5,300 cherry trees in 18 varieties to see the beautiful pink and white blossoms. The cherry trees are located throughout the 360-acre park, with the densest concentration near the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center. Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs annually hosts a series of events in the park during the cherry blossom season, including a 10K run, bike race and family day. There are also historical and horticultural walking tours at various times throughout the year.
SOUTH MOUNTAIN RESERVATION
Fairy Trail: Locust Grove Parking Lot, 197 Glen Ave., Millburn
Hemlock Falls: 64 Cherry Ln., West Orange essexcountyparks.org/parks
Do you believe in fairies? After visiting South Mountain Reserve, you might! Covering 2,112 acres and located in West Orange, Millburn and Maplewood, the nature reserve is part of the Essex County Park System. There are six marked trails but McClennen says the Hemlock Falls Loop and the Fairy Trail are great for kids. “Each are short hikes with an interesting destination,” she says. Hikers can combine both hikes in a 5.9-mile loop, but this may be more challenging for little ones. The Hemlock Falls Loop has two waterfalls and a stream. The Fairy Trail is a one-mile loop combining nature and whimsy. Miniature fairy houses with tiny ladders, doors and furnishings are tucked along the trail, the work of former New Jersey resident Therese Ojibway. All the houses are made from natural, biodegradable materials.
ESSEX COUNTY BRANCH BROOK PARK
CAREGIVERS
Thinking about daycare vs. hiring a nanny or au pair? Here’s what to know.
By Nayda Rondon
Childcare is one of the most important decisions you’ll tackle early in your parenting journey. Understanding the pros and cons of each type of care will help you decide which option best suits the needs, circumstances and priorities of your child and family.
“People want guidelines, but the truth is the ‘right’ decision for a family is mostly individual, dependent on one’s finances, one’s child and the family’s overall childcare needs,” says Grace Doctorow, LCSW, an Ocean Township-based counselor specializing in parenting challenges and life transitions.
What works at one point might not be what serves you at another. Needs will shift as your child grows or your family’s circumstances change. It’s important to periodically reassess your choices and adapt accordingly. For example, Doctorow cites her own adult daughter’s childcare journey: “She was off from work for the first three months, then working from home for the next three, then had a nanny for six months, then juggled a sitter and grandparents before settling on a daycare when her child was 1.5 years old. My grandchild flourished under all these situations because they were right for her. But this might not be the case for a child who may need more patience and skilled care,” she says.
“Choose an option that aligns with your needs to avoid unnecessary stress,” advises Jerusha Hull, LCSW, of Manasquan-based Virtue Counseling, which aims to reduce anxiety during pregnancy and the early parenting days.
“Identifying and exploring your values—such as proximity, style, access, communication, cost, commute or a specific philosophy of care—will make decision-making easier and help you feel more confident in your choice,” Hull says. “Knowing your deal-breakers helps eliminate unsuitable options early.”
FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Child’s needs. Some kids thrive in a daycare’s structured social environment, while others prefer the comfort and familiarity of home.
Work schedule. Daycare works well for 9-to-5 jobs, but unpredictable hours may require a nanny/au pair’s flexibility.
Budget. Weigh the cost of daycare vs. a nanny/au pair, including any scholarship, federal or state aid or shared care opportunities. Availability. In-demand daycare centers with competitive placement waitlists will require early planning and persistence to secure a spot.
KEY PROS AND CONS OF EACH Daycare Pros
Academic growth. Research shows daycare helps kids develop a strong foundation in letters and numbers, giving them an early advantage when entering school.
Cognitive development. Play-based activities like coloring, cutting shapes or building with blocks engage your child while promoting fine motor, language, problem-solving and cognitive skills. Socialization. Interacting with peers and adults teaches your child skills like making friends, resolving disputes and adapting to new situations.
Consistent care. Unlike at-home caregivers, daycares provide reliable care even when employees are out sick or otherwise unavailable.
Immunization boost. Exposure to germs can help strengthen your child’s immune system over time.
Parental break. Fostering greater family-life balance, breaks from
full-time childcare for self-care or to focus on work can help you recharge, enabling you to be more present and engaged with your child when you’re together.
Daycare Cons
Cost. Daycare can be pricey, especially if you live in an area with high childcare expenses.
Germs. While exposure builds immunity, it also means your child is more likely to spread germs to the rest of the family.
Sick policies. Daycares require kids to stay home when ill, which can send you scrambling to find last-minute alternate care.
Limited hours. Daycares have set hours, which may not accommodate non-traditional work schedules or emergencies.
Less individualized attention. In group settings, your child may not receive the one-on-one care they’d get with a nanny/au pair.
Competitive waitlists. High demand for quality daycare can result in long, competitive waitlists or losing your child’s spot in case of extended absences.
Nanny/Au Pair Pros
Personalized care. Nannies/au pairs provide one-on-one attention tailored to your child.
Flexibility. You can customize a nanny’s schedule to fit your family’s routine. No need for drop-offs or pick-ups; your child stays in the comfort and security of your home.
Household help. Many nannies/au pairs assist with tasks like meal prep and light cleaning.
Social interaction. Nannies/au pairs can arrange playdates or outings to parks, museums and libraries for enrichment and socialization.
Travel/overnight care. An au pair/nanny may accompany your family on trips or provide care during overnight absences.
Lower germ contact. Fewer people in your child’s daily environment means less exposure to illness.
Nanny/au pair sharing. Sharing with another trusted family offers a cost-effective way to have personalized care while also providing your child with socialization benefits.
Nanny/Au Pair Cons
Cost. A nanny/au pair can be more expensive than daycare, especially if you’re hiring them full-time or offering benefits like health insurance.
Management responsibility. Hiring and managing a nanny/au pair involves time, effort and oversight.
Limited peer interaction. Your child might miss out on regular group socialization with peers if you don’t make a point of scheduling it. Dependence on one person. If your nanny/au pair is unavailable, you’ll need backup childcare.
Space/housing. Live-in child caretakers will require a separate bedroom. Cramped quarters may hinder parents working hybrid or fully remote.
When weighing options, remember that your choice doesn’t have to be strictly one or the other. Many parents find that combining different childcare options provides the flexibility and support that best fits their family’s needs. No matter which path you choose, having the right care makes all the difference because it truly takes a village.
—Nayda Rondon is a lifestyle, wellness and parenting writer, a children’s book author and a Hillsdale mom.
Success Begins at Westmont
Bergen County’s Premier Resource Center
Providing Information and Referrals for Individuals, Families, and Professionals
We can help you access information regarding:
• Developmental Disabilities Resources
• Transition Planning Information
• Recreational Programs/Summer Camps
• Mental Health Services
We offer workshops for professionals and parents on a variety of topics related to disabilities, as well as sponsor monthly Parent Support Groups
For a complete list of current workshop offerings, visit http://bcss.bergen.org
The Deron School of New Jersey is an approved private school servicing students with special needs. The school has campuses in Union and Montclair, NJ. The Deron School offers a state-approved private school program for students with multiple disabilities including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Down syndrome. Since 1967, The Deron School has provided a nurturing environment, family culture, and personalized curriculum to help students reach their greatest potential for 58 years.
Middle School, High School and Bridge Transition Program 130 Grove St., Montclair, NJ 07042 973-509-2777 April 10 | May 8 | June 5 July 10 | August 7
A SENSE OF
COMMUNITY
How a New Jersey mom of a neurodivergent child reluctantly found her people
When our daughter was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, the last thing I wanted to do was find a support network. That may sound strange, but it was how I truly felt at the time. I knew there was so much information I needed to get up to speed on, but after all the doctor visits and home therapy and just trying to work with our daughter to do things like make eye contact and speak, while not ignoring her twin brother, I had no energy left.
Another problem was that the first few times I began to search “autism” on the Internet, I was bowled over by the sheer volume of differing opinions. Articles that tried to explain it, celebrities that claimed to know how to cure it, and message boards filled with other people’s struggles and horror stories held no appeal. I wasn’t finding anything helpful or hopeful, so I stopped looking.
In our Brooklyn community (where we lived at the time) I had plenty of great parent friends, but I was the only one navigating life with a neurodiverse child. They were sympathetic and included our girl in absolutely everything, but at the end of the day there was no way they
By Ronnie Koenig
It would have been nice to connect with other parents navigating the same thing, but at the time, I just wasn’t ready.
could really understand what we were going through. In retrospect, it would have been nice to connect with other parents navigating the same thing, but at the time, I just wasn’t ready.
EXPANDING THE CIRCLE
Sarah Kernion, an NJ mom of three, neurodiversity advocate and speaker, and host of the Inchstones podcast, had a similar experience.
“I did not have a huge circle in 2017 when Milly was first diagnosed,” she says. “I leaned mostly on the love and support of my best friends who did some behind-the-scenes work for me—finding mom friends of friends who had a child on the spectrum. It began with a few phone
SARAH KERNION AND HER SON MACK, 7
calls to moms I literally didn’t even know personally.”
And just as I clung to my “regular” parent friends and resisted seeking out autism groups, Sarah also initially resisted finding her tribe.
“I was flooded with such seesawing emotions of grief and loss, and also managing three kids under the age of 5,” she says. “I did a lot of compartmentalization at first just to keep my mind from spiraling.”
Everything changed when Sarah started sharing her parenting journey on Instagram @saturdaysstory, and she began to find and connect with other moms virtually. “Once I realized that when I shared more of my journey with a new mom friend or someone reaching out on social media, my pain and sadness began to lift,” she says.
For me, the change happened when we moved to New Jersey. We had several play dates with a little boy in my daughter’s class at her new school, and in the mom I recognized so many of the same things that had recently become part of my personality—the hypervigilance around my daughter due to safety issues, the need to constantly find tricks to help her selfregulate, and an overall desperation to push her to learn and socialize, all while accepting her for the person she is.
FRIENDS WHO ‘GET IT’
It was a lot! And in hindsight, I wish I had found others in my same boat sooner.
“All women are so primally wired to ‘tend and befriend,’” says Sarah, talking about the benefits of having a network. “I quickly saw the mental health benefits myself, having not one but two children with non-speaking autism. Venting when you have a typical kid is one thing; venting with a fellow special needs mom in the trenches hits the dopamine center more effectively.” In many ways, other parents of kids with disabilities just “get it” in a way that even your closest friends and relatives who aren’t in a situation like yours never will.
“When communication is lacking by your children and behaviors ramp up, being able to share your day’s highs and lows with a fellow autism mom can be all that it takes to give your heart and mind that peace it so desperately seeks out,” says Sarah.
When things really changed for me was when our daughter transitioned into the autism program at our local elementary school. Because she was no longer bussing 30 minutes to school, we had proximity to other parents and kids right here in our neighborhood who were also on this autism (or other disability) journey. The result was a true friend group for my daughter—kids she knew by name, and who she celebrated birthdays and holidays and impromptu pizza and dance party nights with. And I gained an always-available lifeline in the form of a WhatsApp group where fellow parents shared events and advice, struggles, and those coveted “inchstones” that Sarah speaks about. In person, we attended autism seminars and workshops, and also did plenty of fun things that had nothing to do with autism at all.
“Start by reaching out or posting on another special needs moms group on Facebook or Instagram,” says Sarah. “Share a bit about your child and your love for them. Or join an online support group and read the posts of other parents. Sometimes just seeing the support poured from others reminds you to do the same.”
I would tell my old self to have sought out this community sooner, but the truth is I probably needed to come around to it in my own time. And just as my daughter has to fall and get back up and try again, making small but significant progress along the way, so do I, in the way I navigate being her mom.
—Ronnie Koenig is an NJ mom of twins. Find her at facebook.com/AutismGirlMom
FROM TOP: THE AUTHOR AND HER DAUGHTER HAVING SUMMER FUN; SARAH SPENDS QUALITY TIME WITH DAUGHTER MILLY, 9; A SUPPORTIVE TWIN BROTHER IS EVERYTHING.
CLOCKWISE
PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Whether your kids love acting, musical theater or comedy, these programs will help them step confidently into the spotlight.
By Jennifer Amato
Rutgers Summer Arts Institute
Paper Mill Playhouse
ACTING OUT
439 South Ave. W., Westfield 908-379-8119; 418 Main St., Metuchen 732-372-7143 • actingoutonline.com
Instructors provide training in acting, musical theater, improv and on-camera work for actors age 4 and up who want experience on stage or on the screen. There are yearround classes and private lessons designed to build skills, boost confidence and prepare students for success. A new location in Metuchen will open this summer.
ACTION THEATRE CONSERVATORY / ATC STUDIOS
68 Union Ave., Clifton 862-243-2827 • atcstudios.org
Classes here are for traditional theater actors, but also for future TV and film stars. Using fun exercises and story theater techniques, kids will present a final “informance” performance for family and friends.
The Performing Arts School has programs in music, dance, theater and visual arts. Musical Theater Summer Camp helps kids ages 6-12 develop skills in voice, dance, acting and storytime. The Early Childhood program starts at age 3 months old!
BRIGHTEST STAR SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS
16 Ridgedale Ave., Cedar Knolls 973-829-1973
brighteststarschoolofperformingarts.com
Summer musical theater camp is for the dancers, singers and actors in your life. There is a sleepaway camp in Beach Haven on LBI, or kids can attend musical theater day camp in Whippany. Kids will learn voice, acting and dance tips; then produce a final show on the last day of camp. There’s a separate program for voice instruction for kids 10 and up.
BROADWAY PERFORMING ARTS
357 Broad St., Bloomfield 973-748-2787
broadwayperformingarts.net
Professional performers will teach your children how to dance, play instruments, enhance their voice and develop their talents for musical theater.
Summer theater camp programs include Budding Stars for 5-to-7-year-olds, while kids 8 to 14 can join the Summer Stage, where they take a 2-week session and then perform in a production on stage. Advanced performers can sign up for a three-week intensive. There are a variety of theater classes offered year-round as well.
CENTENARY STAGE COMPANY
Lackland Performing Arts Center 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown 908-979-0900 • centenarystageco.org
The Young Performers Workshop is a musical theater training program for kids ages 8-18 who want to be hands-on. Using classroom study and a real production process, kids learn about acting and then are guaranteed a part in at least one production.
CONTAGIOUS DRAMA WORKSHOP
113 Washington St., Westfield 917-836-3740
sites.google.com/view/contagiousdrama
Kids and teens learn basic theater skills through games, improv and role-playing. They learn acting and scene study, plus the WhoWhat-Where-Why-How of approaching their
work. They’ll be assigned a scene or short play to present at the end of the season.
ELEFANTE MUSIC & SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
1790 Springfield Ave., New Providence 908-464-5928
413 Park Ave., Scotch Plains 908-322-7542
elefantemusic.com
During the school year, kids ages 3-18 can sign up for a semester of acting, singing or dancing; or a full-stage musical year-round. Summer performing arts programs are available as well.
ESSEX YOUTH THEATER
Studio Playhouse, 14 Alvin Pl., Upper Montclair 973-746-3303 or 973-744-9752
studioplayhouse.org/essex-youth-theater
Every budding actor will get a role in a custom-written play, and then perform in a full-scale production. Classes are separated into ages 4-5, 6-8 and 9-12. Summer includes a theater day camp for students ages 6-13.
GEORGE STREET PLAYHOUSE
11 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick 732-246-7717
georgestreetplayhouse.org/education
The Arts Education program offers student
Acting Out
Vanguard Theater
Vivid Stage
matinees with talkbacks with the artists in residence, a variety of resources both onstage and offstage, skills development, workshops and classes.
The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey is the site of the Creative Arts Academy, where classes and camps are open to newcomers and advanced students. Classes include stories and songs, creative dramatics, musical performance, playwriting, improv and private vocal coaching, with some programs starting as young as pre-K.
HOBOKEN CHILDREN’S THEATER
Hoboken Children’s Theater, 701 Clinton St., Hoboken; Hoboken Charter School, 713 Washington St., Hoboken; All Saints Church, 707 Washington St., Hoboken 646-339-8485 hobokenchildrenstheater.com
With its own public theater space, Hoboken Children’s Theater has been a training ground for actors as young as 3. The winter programs feature workshops like Make It Musical, Songs & Scenes, and Theater Games; while the upcoming summer program features a mini camp so kids can rehearse and perform a full production, working with music, acting and dance pros.
Young musicians who are at any level of instrumental or vocal experience can join ensembles, master classes, workshops with Grammy Award-winning artists, and jam sessions to improve their techniques for performance.
KELSEY THEATRE AT MERCER COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor 609-570-3333 • kelsey.mccc.edu
Tomato Patch is Central Jersey’s longestrunning arts program with training in theater, dance, vocals, comedy, video, musical theater and more. Tomato Patch Jr. is a Saturday morning theater workshop series where kids ages 5-12 learn improv, movement and creativity.
MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
100 South St., Morristown
973-539-0345 • mayoarts.org/education
MPAC’s Performing Arts School, school programs, main stage performances and outreach opportunities reach over 40,000 kids per year through theater classes, schooltime shows, workshops, seminars, student recognition programs and enrichment opportunities.
McCARTER THEATRE CENTER
91 University Pl., Princeton
609-258-8289 • mccarter.org/classes
McCarter gives kids in grades K-12 the ability to explore, play and develop their talents, from newcomers to seasoned performers. Younger kids learn through heroes and villains, while grades 3-8 start to learn about Shakespeare, progressing to a teen acting collective for high schoolers.
Theatre School offers acting, comedy improv, musical theater, dance, costuming and sewing classes for students who want to improve their performance, confidence, communication, kinesthetic, endurance, discipline, concentration and self-expression skills. MMT offers an inclusive acting class for differently-abled performers who are 16 and older.
NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
– CENTER FOR ARTS EDUCATION
24 Rector St., Newark 973-353-7058 • njpac.org
After studying dance, jazz, acting, musical theater, hip-hop arts and culture, either at the Center for Arts Education or in classes taught by NJPAC teaching artists at schools around the state, kids can experience performances on the Arts Center stages. The Colton Institute for Training and Research in the Arts offers Saturday classes, summer camps, coaching, career mentorship and professional performance opportunities.
NEW JERSEY SCHOOL OF DRAMATIC ARTS
NJSDA at St. John’s Church 55 Montclair Ave., Montclair 973-566-9700 • njactors.org
Youth acting classes are offered in person or virtually for actors of all ages and backgrounds who are serious about their stage presence. Kids, tweens and teens are exposed to lessons in acting, improv, musical
theater, TV & film, and a series of workshops.
NEWARK SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
89 Lincoln Park, Newark 973-642-0133 facebook.com/NewarkSchooloftheArts
Some of the newer classes offered include early childhood music, media, dance, drama and runway fashion.
Classes for kids throughout the year include storybook theater, improv, creative drama, acting for the camera, voice lessons and showtime. Teens can sign up for drama in performance, acting techniques, scenes and song production, and private coaching. Summer training programs include the Summer Musical Theater Conservatory, Musical Theater Technique Intensive, Paper Mill Players Camp, New Voices Concert and a series of audition opportunities.
PEACHCRAFT ACADEMY OF DRAMATIC ARTS AND CREATIVE VOICE
371 Springfield Ave., Summit 908-673-1485
peachcraft.net
Beginner workshops for kids ages 8-11 focus on the language of the performing arts, building an ensemble and learning foundational techniques. Teens ages 12-15 will apply those techniques to scene study, and learn the basics of an audition for the camera and for the stage. High school actors can sign up for a workshop on auditioning, script analysis and on-camera techniques. Master classes offer further study.
PORCH LIGHT PRODUCTIONS
555 Broad St., Glen Rock, 201-857-3520; 9 Sand Park Rd., Suite 6, Cedar Grove, 201-793-2021; Cedar Grove Stage, 216 Little Falls Rd., Cedar Grove, 201-793-2021
porchlightproductions.org
Classes and programs focus on performing arts through acting, voice, dance, musical theater, improv and on-camera lessons. Enroll your budding actress in an academy program, studio class, youth performance troupe (by audition only), workshops, mini camps or private lessons.
PRINCETON BALLET SCHOOL
Cranbury Studio, 29 N. Main St., Cranbury, 609-921-7758; New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, 60 Bayard St., New Brunswick,
732-249-1254 ; Princeton Studio, 301 N. Harrison St., Princeton 609-921-7758
arballet.org/princeton-ballet-school/ Ballerinas age 3 and up can join this division of the American Repertory Ballet, a non-profit, professional ballet company that focuses on classical and contemporary dance training.
RUTGERS SUMMER ARTS INSTITUTE
Mason Gross School of the Arts 33 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick communityarts@mgsa.rutgers.edu sites.rutgers.edu/mgsa-community-arts
Rising seventh to 12th graders can register for vibrant programs in Art & Design, Dance, Filmmaking & Screenwriting, Concert Band, and Jazz, all hosted by Mason Gross School of the Arts and led by renowned faculty.
THE SHAKESPEARE THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY
3 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park
973-845-6723 • shakespearenj.org
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is the state’s largest professional theater company dedicated solely to the famed author. Through the Shakespeare Theatre Academy, students use games, scene work and Shakespearean texts to learn about movement, speech and character creation.
SHARRON MILLER’S ACADEMY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
10 Erie St., Montclair
973-655-9819 • smapa.org
Founder and Artistic/Executive Director
Sharron Miller is a former Alvin Ailey principal dancer and a Broadway vet. For 30 years she has been giving back to her hometown by offering free and reduced-cost dance programs.
SOUTH ORANGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
1 SOPAC Way, South Orange 973-382-1035 sopacnow.org/poetry-out-loud
SOPAC offers National Poetry Out Loud —a partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts, The Poetry Foundation and arts agencies across the U.S—for students in grades 9-12 who want to learn about poetry through memorization and recitation. They learn skills to improve public speaking, selfconfidence and literary history.
TWO RIVER THEATER
21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank 732-345-1400
tworivertheater.org/education
The famed Red Bank theater holds educational events for students, plus summer programs for learners ages 12-17 who want to spend their summer at an intensive or pro series workshop. There’s also The ART of Social Justice, which is an educator-focused collab with Project Write Now and T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center.
VANGUARD THEATER
180 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair 862-205-3525
vanguardtheatercompany.org/ summerstockvtc
Young actors can prepare to DREAM at Vanguard’s Summerstock program: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism and Mentorship,that is. The annual DREAM Summerstock VTC is a two-week sleepaway musical theater intensive that blends training, collaboration, artistic exploration, and traditional camp experiences like campfires, hiking and swimming.
VIVID STAGE
Oakes Center, 120 Morris Ave., Summit 908-514-9654
vividstage.org/vividdreamers
The Vivid Dreamers program is a 3-week summer camp for kids in grades 4-10, where kids start with classes and workshops in acting, improv, playwriting, singing and movement; move on to developing and writing an original play; and then present their work on the last night of camp.
Home to Princeton Boychoir, Princeton Girlchoir, Poce Voice Choir and Choir Camp at Westrick Academy, the Music Education Programs at WMA help singers strengthen their musical skills both for rehearsals and for performances. There are also workshops in musical theater, drumming and the ukelele.
Broadway Performing Arts
Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts
Brundage Park Playhouse
When you need an attorney, whose recommendation do you trust? We asked parents like you about the lawyers who’ve made a difference in their family’s lives at the most stressful of times. The result is a list of professionals who’ve gone above and beyond to advocate for their clients. From family law to estate planning to special needs, the lawyers on this list have been nominated by parents like you for being the best of the best. Thanks for voting—your recommendations will help families get exceptional representation when they need it most.
Best NJ Lawyers for Families
THE DETAILS
n The list doesn’t imply endorsement by New Jersey Family; it’s a parent-to-parent referral list only.
n A name in boldface indicates the attorney has purchased an advertising profile on the page number that follows.
n The professionals on this list were nominated by readers who were surveyed by New Jersey Family between November 2023 and November 2024.
Lawyers are listed alphabetically by category.
BANKRUPTCY
Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 43
Karina Pia Lucid • Bridgewater
Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 43
BUSINESS
Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 44
CIVIL LITIGATION
Mark DiPisa • Hasbrouck Heights
COMMERCIAL LITIGATION
Mary Frances Palisano • Newark
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Joy Anderson • Eatontown
Mark DiPisa • Hasbrouck Heights
Mary Frances Palisano • Newark
Noelle van Baaren • Newark, Paterson
EDUCATION
Karen F. Edler • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 37
Michelle L. Krone • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 37
Jacqueline E. Lasher • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 37
ELDER LAW
Constantina Koulosousas • Whippany
Jane Carro Tiboni • New Providence
EMPLOYMENT
Ayesha Krishnan Hamilton • Princeton
ESTATE PLANNING
Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 43
Susan K. Dromsky-Reed • Roseland, p. 40
Hillary D. Freeman • Princeton
Stuart M. Gladstone • Roseland, p. 40
Alex M. Hilsen • Cranbury, Red Bank
Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 44
Constantina Koulosousas • Whippany
Christine L. Matus • Toms River
Jane Carro Tiboni • New Providence
FAMILY LAW
Mauro D. Altamura • Morristown, Wyckoff, p. 44
Joy Anderson • Eatontown
Rita M. Aquilio • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Jessica L. Arndt • Edison, p. 40
Santo V. Artusa, Jr. • Jersey City
Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 43
Kristyl M. Berckes • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Jenny Berse • Westfield, p. 36
Samuel J. Berse • Westfield, p. 36
Daniel A. Burton • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Joseph P. Cadicina • Morristown, Wyckoff, p. 44
Pasqua Sciancalepore Cadicina • Morristown, Wyckoff, p. 44
Jerry S. D’Aniello • Bridgewater, Eatontown, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 38
Scott D. Danaher • Bridgewater, Eatontown, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 38
Nicholas De Metro • Montclair, p. 42
Carly DiFrancisco • Morristown, Wyckoff, p. 44
Ashley E. Edwards • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Grace Eisenberg • Whippany, p. 39
Robert Epstein • Hoboken, Montclair
Sandra C. Fava • Morristown, p. 41
Laura Guinta Gencarelli • Bridgewater, Eatontown, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 38
Erika L. Goldberg • Marlton
Elsie Gonzalez • West Caldwell, p. 41
Allison Holzman • Mountainside
Sarah J. Jacobs • Morristown
Ruth Kim • Paramus
Amy Kriegsman • Parsippany
Sara E. Kucsan • Parsippany, Short Hills, p. 45
Maria J. La Sala • Saddle Brook, p. 44
Cynthia J. Lambo • Whippany, p. 39
Jeralyn L. Lawrence • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Bart W. Lombardo • West Caldwell, p. 41
Joseph V. Maceri • Bridgewater, Eatontown, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 38
Thomas R. McConnell • Morristown, Wyckoff, p. 44
Lauren A. Miceli • Edison, p. 40
Kristen C. Montella • Hopatcong
John Nachlinger • Princeton
Laurie L. Newmark • Whippany, p. 39
Alvin Eugene Richards III • Parsippany, Short Hills,
p. 45
Catherine F. Riordan • Parsippany
Angelo Sarno • Bridgewater, Eatontown, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 38
Angela M. Scafuri • Whippany, p. 39
Allen J. Scazafabo, Jr. • Morristown, p. 45
Sheryl J. Seiden • Cranford
Lynette Siragusa • Bridgewater
Sean A. Smith • Roseland, p. 40
Carl J. Soranno • Roseland, p. 40
Alison J. Sutak • Edison, p. 40
Paul H. Townsend • Whippany, p. 39
Amanda S. Trigg • Saddle Brook
Emily Urrico • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Noelle van Baaren • Newark, Paterson
Amy Wechsler • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 42
Allison C. Williams • Parsippany, Short Hills, p. 45
Pegeen C. Williams • Whippany, p. 39
Karen Tichenor Willitts • West
Caldwell, p. 41
Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 43
Melissa B. Zemsky • Hackensack, Springfield
HOUSING
Yvonne Larsen • Morristown
IMMIGRATION
Joy Anderson • Eatontown
MUNICIPAL
Noelle van Baaren • Newark, Paterson
PERSONAL INJURY
Angela Cervelli Bennett • West New York
Edward P. Capozzi • Roseland, p. 40
Jeremy L. Hylton • Roseland, p. 40
Francis J. Leddy, Jr. • Florham Park, Iselin, Short Hills, Wayne
PROBATE
Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 43
REAL ESTATE
Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 43
Benjamin B. Cooper • Ramsey
Mark DiPisa • Hasbrouck Heights
Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 44
Christine L. Matus • Toms River
Christopher Medina • Short Hills
Francis A. Uzzi • Montvale
Noelle van Baaren • Newark, Paterson
Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 43
SPECIAL EDUCATION/ SPECIAL NEEDS
Hannah Argul • Cranbury, Red Bank
Lori E. Arons • Hackensack
Beth A. Callahan • Roseland
Keith T. Campbell • Westfield
Mariann Crincoli • Cranbury, Red Bank
Karen F. Edler • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 37
Hillary D. Freeman • Princeton
Johanna R. Ginsberg • Cranbury, Red Bank
Staci J. Greenwald • Cranbury, Red Bank
Alex M. Hilsen • Cranbury, Red Bank
Michelle L. Krone • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 37
Jacqueline E. Lasher • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 37
Beth C. Manes • Westfield
Christine L. Matus • Toms River
Andrew I. Meltzer • Cranbury, Red Bank
Mary Frances Palisano • Newark
Melanie Ritter • Westfield Red Bank
Denise G. Verzella • Westfield
Julie Warshaw • Somerset, p. 43
Jessica Weinberg • Westfield
TAX
Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 44
David J. Ritter • Roseland, p. 40
BERSE LAW, LLC
Jenny
Berse, Esq., Samuel J. Berse, Esq.
FAMILY LAW
Jenny and Sam Berse are dedicated to solving family law matters in courts throughout New Jersey. The firm handles cases involving married and non-married parties with issues including custody, parenting time, asset division, spousal and child support, modifications, pre-marital agreements, appeals, domestic violence and other family law matters.
SUPPORTING CLIENTS EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
“We fiercely advocate for our clients and think outside the box to come up with creative solutions and strategies to get them what they want,” says Jenny, who completed more than 700 continuing education classes and is trained in mediation and collaborative law. “Family law issues frequently cause or are accompanied by tremendous trauma or stress, so we’re there for our clients every step of the way.”
Jenny opened the firm 20 years ago and her son, Sam, joined in 2017 after completing coveted family court and appellate division clerkships. With an unrelenting determination and work ethic, Jenny is a tireless advocate for her clients.
MAINTAINING CLIENTS’ WELL-BEING
Berse Law is devoted to helping clients resolve the challenges and issues inherent in all family law matters to ensure a successful future. The attorneys provide practical advice and aggressive representation to achieve clients’ goals.
Sam Berse brings a formidable depth of knowledge and skill to every case. Intertwining creativity and common sense, he counsels his clients with a realworld approach that positions them for success. “Navigating a tough situation requires an experienced guide, and we’re aware of how important it is for our clients to maintain their emotional and financial well-being now and in the future,” Sam says.
Clients choose Berse Law because of its excellent reputation for success in even the most challenging matters, including two recent victories in published, law-making cases. Berse Law works not just for their clients, but with their clients.
Backed by exceptional skills, professionalism and dedication, they stop at nothing to achieve the best possible results.
L-R: Jenny Berse, Samuel J. Berse
PRICE, MEESE, SHULMAN & D’ARMINIO, P.C.
Aaron Cohen, Esq., Karen F. Edler, Esq. , Jacqueline E. Lasher, Esq. , Michelle L. Krone, Esq.
FAMILY LAW / EDUCATION / SPECIAL NEEDS LAW
The attorneys in the Education Law Group and Family Law Group at Price, Meese, Shulman & D’Arminio, P.C., are zealous advocates for their clients. The attorneys take the time to listen to their clients’ objectives and provide the knowledge and understanding necessary for them to make the best decisions for their families.
EDUCATION LAW GROUP
“There’s so much going on in the world of education right now. We are continuing the fight in response to recent proposed changes to the laws protecting the neurodiverse population from discrimination, including the case Texas v. Becerra, which proposes to eliminate many of the Section 504 rights for people with disabilities,” says Karen Edler, Principal and founder of the Education Law Group. The attorneys provide services to the neurodiverse community from birth through adulthood, addressing their clients’ needs in education, special education, guardianship, Social Security and special needs estate planning matters. The firm helps students at all levels of education navigate disciplinary
issues, including harassment, intimidation and bullying (HIB) complaints and disciplinary hearings. “We draw from personal experience and knowledge of the law to passionately and effectively advocate for our clients,” says attorney Michelle Krone. The lawyers are passionate about improving their clients’ situations. “We recognize the hurdles that so many families face, and strive to alleviate the burden placed on parents to obtain an appropriate education for their children,” says attorney Jackie Lasher.
FAMILY LAW GROUP
Aaron Cohen, chair of the Family Law Group, maintains a personalized, client-focused practice as he represents clients in all family law matters. Cohen is appointed by the courts to serve as a parent coordinator and guardian ad litem His wide breadth of experience with litigants in these varied capacities provides him with a unique perspective from which to approach cases.
“I’m proud of my hands-on approach and ability to craft solutions that help clients move forward,” he says.
(L-R): Aaron Cohen, Michelle L. Krone, Karen F. Edler, Jacqueline E. Lasher
SARNO DA COSTA D’ANIELLO MACERI WEBB LLC
Angelo Sarno, Esq. , Jerry S. D’Aniello, Esq. , Joseph V. Maceri, Esq. , Scott D. Danaher, Esq. Adelaide Riggi Cutalo, Esq. , Laura Guinta Gencarelli, Esq.
FAMILY LAW/ MEDICAL MALPRACTICE/ PERSONAL INJURY
Sarno da Costa D’Aniello Maceri Webb LLC (SdDMW) is a legal powerhouse in family law, medical malpractice and personal injury.
Angelo Sarno, Jerry D’Aniello, Scott Danaher, Adelaide Riggi Cutalo and Laura Guinta Gencarelli and their team have provided strong, personalized legal representation throughout New Jersey since its inception in 2009. With 30 attorneys in offices throughout Essex, Somerset, Bergen, Morris and Monmouth counties, Sarno leads the firm and ensures that each client receives tailored, precise legal representation.
SKILLED ATTORNEYS
Sarno’s family law division focuses on complex family law matters including high-conflict divorces, business valuations, patent and trademark valuations, marital tort claims, non-cash employee compensation, custody litigation, and trusts. The firm’s medical malpractice and personal injury division is led by Paul da Costa, who dedicates his practice to protecting the rights of all individuals – one such example is a $44 million settlement in which the State of NJ paid families of Menlo Park and Paramus veterans home residents whose deaths were attributed
to the COVID pandemic.
Each of SdDMW’s attorneys has been hand-selected for their vast experience in their respective practice areas; they can determine underlying issues that other firms overlook and find solutions that may not be obvious. Many of the firm’s attorneys are certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey – a title held by only two percent of NJ lawyers.
A FOCUSED APPROACH
The firm was built on a simple foundation: delivering client-focused representation with the primary objective of achieving the best possible results. SdDMW’s client-first focus guides everything the firm does – from the first meeting until the case is resolved.
“We believe our growth has been a direct result of the way we approach our cases and how we treat our clients,” Sarno says. “We support families every step of the way.”
All offices are interconnected and operate seamlessly, and SdDMW is fully adapted to handle all matters remotely.
L-R: Laura Guinta Gencarelli, Jerry S. D’Aniello, Adelaide Riggi Cutalo, Angelo Sarno, Joseph V. Maceri, Scott D. Danaher
TOWNSEND, TOMAIO & NEWMARK LLC
Laurie L. Newmark, Esq., Paul H. Townsend, Esq., Angela M. Scafuri, Esq., Pegeen C. Williams, Esq. Grace Eisenberg, Esq., Cynthia J. Lambo, Esq.
FAMILY LAW
Family law disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when dealing with high-conflict personalities. The attorneys at Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark understand the unique challenges of navigating cases involving narcissistic spouses or co-parents. Founding partners Laurie L. Newmark, Paul H. Townsend and Dominic A. Tomaio built the firm on the guiding principle: “Our strategy today is protecting your tomorrow.”
STRATEGIC REPRESENTATION IN FAMILY LAW
The attorneys ensure that clients remain in control of their cases and avoid unnecessary conflict while achieving the best possible outcomes. The team strategically handles all family law matters, from the complex to the most standard dissolution. “We have strategies to deal with narcissists to ensure that our clients are protected and not manipulated in the legal process,” Townsend says. The attorneys are dedicated to strategic representation, and provide unwavering support and compassionate guidance to their clients. The firm specializes in all areas of family law, including divorce, custody, alimony and
child support, domestic violence, abuse and neglect, and all other domesticrelated issues.
ADVOCATING FOR FAMILIES
As fierce litigators, experienced mediators and court-approved parent coordinators, the firm handles all types of family law matters with compassion and precision. The seasoned divorce and family law attorneys ensure that clients feel empowered, not overwhelmed, throughout the legal process. Fully invested in every case, the team works tirelessly to pave a path toward a brighter future. “We approach every case with dedication, from the most complex disputes to more straightforward dissolutions,” Tomaio says.
Practicing together for more than 25 years, the attorneys have demonstrated that no matter the circumstances, they remain committed to the strategic advocacy on which the firm was founded. “In our firm, you are more than just a client. We understand the enormity of your situation and work tirelessly to achieve results so you can move forward,” Newmark says.
(L-R): Angela V. Tafro, Nicole A. Cioffi, Eric A. Parisi, Pegeen C. Williams, Carly J. Steinberg, Dominic A. Tomaio, Laurie L. Newmark, Rita T. Jerejian, Paul H. Townsend, David Giannini, Marlene A. Bonet, JD, John E. Clancy, Grace Eisenberg, Cynthia J. Lambo, Anna Maria Petracca, Angela M. Scafuri
ARNDT, SUTAK & MICELI, LLC
Arndt, Sutak and Miceli, LLC is a women-owned law firm exclusively practicing divorce and family law. Jessica L. Arndt, Alison J. Sutak and Lauren A. Miceli understand how emotional and stressful family law matters can be, and work hard to guide clients through the legal process while minimizing anxiety and fear. Recognized individually by the Middlesex County Bar Association, the attorneys work as a team to ensure their clients’ best interests are always first and foremost.
“We’re all parents of two children each, so we like to tell our clients we’re in the thick of it with them as far as parenting is concerned— and we think that helps our ability to counsel
and work with families,” Miceli says.
Each of the attorneys brings their own distinct skills to the table when working with clients. With previous experience as a prosecutor for domestic violence and sexual assault cases, Arndt is the firm’s go-to trial lawyer.
Sutak provides sensitive, compassionate counsel while Miceli is a fierce advocate and communicator. Each attorney adapts her approach to suit each client’s individual needs.
“We all love practicing family law because we strongly believe we can make a positive difference in our clients’ lives as they navigate these incredibly personal and difficult issues,” Miceli says.
BRACH EICHLER LLC
Brach Eichler LLC is a leading multipractice firm whose attorneys are recognized for their dedication to serving the legal needs of families, including plans for the care and financial security of children, marital formation or disruption and personal injury disputes and litigations.
Stuart M. Gladstone and Susan K. DromskyReed, co-chairs of the trusts and estates practice, ensure clients’ wishes are carried out in the future while David J. Ritter structures tax strategies. “It’s not easy to think about these issues, but your family must be protected,” explains Dromsky-Reed. “We help with wills and living wills, healthcare and financial powers of attorney, guardianship plans for your children and trustees over your assets.”
When considering marriage or facing the consequences of divorce, custody, guardianship or a trust dispute, Brach Eichler’s family law practice addresses these life changes on the family dynamics. Carl J. Soranno and Sean A. Smith, both certified mediators, skillfully provide awardwinning counsel to families in need of effective solutions.
“Each matter has differing priorities and challenges. We help our clients achieve their unique objectives,” says Soranno.
Edward P. Capozzi and Jeremy L. Hylton help personal injury clients fight for full and fair compensation when injured through the careless actions of others. “We’re your support system, and our team’s compassion and expertise will deliver top quality results,” says Capozzi.
Jessica L. Arndt, Esq., Alison J. Sutak, Esq., Lauren A. Miceli, Esq.
L-R: Lauren A. Miceli, Jessica L. Arndt, Alison J. Sutak
L-R: (Back row) Jeremy L. Hylton, David J. Ritter, Susan K. Dromsky-Reed, Stuart M. Gladstone, Edward P. Capozzi (Front row) Sean A. Smith, Carl J. Soranno
CIPRIANO LAW OFFICES, PC
At Cipriano Law Offices, PC, Melissa Cipriano and her team provide comprehensive, holistic service, pursue fair resolutions and achieve meaningful results that serve their clients’ best interests. With more than 100 years of family law experience, the firm maintains an eye on settlement while zealously advocating for their clients.
Melissa Cipriano, Bart Lombardo, Karen Willitts and Elsie Gonzalez are qualified economic mediators who work tirelessly toward resolutions of even the most complex matters. Both Cipriano and Lombardo are statewide-approved parenting coordinators. As a court-appointed guardian ad
litem, Cipriano develops solutions for marital and custody issues.
The firm’s legal team builds relationships with clients to fully understand their goals and concerns. While they can efficiently resolve disputes through negotiation, mediation or collaboration, they are prepared to aggressively advocate for clients in court when necessary. An accomplished litigator, Karen Willits specializes in appellate work and adoption; along with Lombardo and Gonzalez, she is also well-versed in domestic violence representation.
“No matter what your family law matter is, our team can help,” Cipriano says. “Doing what’s best for a family is always our top priority.”
FAVA LAW LLC
Sandra Fava is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients and their families. She has devoted her legal career to the representation of clients in high-net-worth and high-conflict divorce matters, and recently opened the doors of her own family law firm to provide clients with a personalized level of service.
A certified mediator, Fava helps families through conflicts related to divorce, child custody, alimony, child support and other family law matters. She works closely with clients to develop strategies that prioritize their individual goals and well-being.
“My strategy has always been to give people practical, creative and solution-oriented advice
to help them move forward,” she says. “There are no cookie-cutter solutions; every family is unique, and I firmly believe in taking the time to listen to my clients and understand what they’re going through.”
Fava provides practical advice while also offering unwavering support during challenging times. She is a skilled negotiator and litigator, but believes in exploring alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, whenever possible.
“The most rewarding part of what I do is helping someone through a major life transition with dignity and security, and allowing them to take full ownership over the next chapter of their lives,” she says.
L-R: (standing) Elsie Gonzalez, Bart W. Lombardo (sitting) Karen Tichenor Willitts, Melissa Cipriano. Photo: John Agnello Photography
Sandra C. Fava , Esq.
AJeralyn L. Lawrence,
LAWRENCE LAW
Esq., Rita M. Aquilio, Esq.
,
Daniel A. Burton, Esq.
,
Kristyl M. Berckes, Esq., Ashley E. Edwards, Esq., Emily Urrico, Esq., Amy Wechsler, Esq.
t divorce and family law firm
Lawrence Law, Jeralyn Lawrence, Rita Aquilio, Kristyl Berckes, Daniel Burton, Ashley Edwards, Emily Urrico and Amy Wechsler provide a sophisticated and efficient approach to issues from alimony, child support and equitable distribution to custody and parenting time. The attorneys have experience in all facets of divorce and matrimonial law, including litigation and mediation. “We’re strategic and compassionate, and achieving our clients’ goals—and tirelessly advocating for their best interests—remains our primary concern,” says Lawrence, a divorce trial attorney, trained mediator and arbitrator, and mother of three.
A past president of the New Jersey State Bar Association, Lawrence helps families resolve personal matters with or without court intervention. “My dad was a juvenile detective so I gained a perspective on the law early on in life. I wanted to help people going through emotional and difficult life situations,” she says.
The Lawrence Law team guides families through the difficult process of divorce or a breakup toward their best outcome. The firm was chosen among the top family law firms in the New Jersey Law Journal’s Best of 2024 survey.
“We help families reach a better place as they navigate their journey—and help them be as happy as they can be,” Lawrence says.
MONTCLAIR DIVORCE MEDIATION
An attorney since 1991, Nicholas De Metro has represented clients as a divorce lawyer for several years. De Metro witnessed firsthand how emotionally and financially destructive divorce litigation is to the entire family—especially children—so in 2009, he changed his practice and dedicated himself to helping families going through the divorce process. He now devotes his practice solely to divorce mediation to limit the emotional pain and economic impact on families while assisting clients with improved methods of co-parenting
A compassionate, solution-oriented and neutral mediator, De Metro provides a nonthreatening environment for couples to resolve issues such as the division of assets, debts,
alimony and child support. “Many clients have told me that I introduced issues they never even considered,” he says.
An accredited divorce mediator by the NJ Association of Professional Mediators, De Metro guides couples using a practical, even-handed approach. He clarifies divorce law and diffuses disputes, which provides both spouses with better control over the terms and conditions of their divorce. He is adept at helping couples develop creative, long-term solutions to complex issues that result in fair, reasonable and comprehensive settlements. He conducts in person as well as virtual sessions for NJ couples located throughout the state. “I’m committed to helping spouses resolve all of their issues and get divorced— without it costing a fortune,” he says.
L-R: (Back row) Rita M. Aquilio, Amy Shimalla, Daniel A. Burton, Amy Wechsler, Kristyl M. Berckes (front row) Ashley E. Edwards, Emily Urrico, Jeralyn Lawrence
WARSHAW LAW FIRM, LLC
Julie Warshaw, Esq.
Julie Warshaw is dedicated to ensuring that children with disabilities have access to and derive benefit from a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).
Practicing since 1993, Warshaw represents children with autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, cognitive impairments, language deficits, allergies, medical conditions, schoolrelated anxiety, phobia and refusal and other special needs to obtain an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan with an appropriate educational placement, services and accommodations to meet each child’s unique needs. She also represents children in harassment, intimidation and bullying matters.
Her practice areas also include guardianships, collaborative divorce, family law and mediation. A member of the New Jersey Special Education Practitioners Group, New Jersey Bar Association School Law Committee and other professional organizations, Warshaw is a frequent guest speaker and consultant on special education matters and anti-bullying cases.
Passionate about American Sign Language (ASL), she was instrumental in Bill S1760’s legislative process to recognize ASL as a world language in New Jersey, and for high school students to receive credit toward graduation requirements. It became law in 2015. She is the author of IBD Friendly Recipes for Crohn’s and Colitis and Justin’s Garden
The attorneys at Wolfenson & Ashkenazi, PC strive to give clients a fresh start while providing pragmatic solutions to their family law, real estate and estate matters. Andrew M. Wolfenson, Rebecca S. Ashkenazi and their multilingual team combine the personalized attention of a small firm with the services and resources of a larger law practice. Joined by an associate, they handle myriad legal issues so that they are truly a “full-service” firm to their clients.
Wolfenson, a father of three, formed the firm in 2002; in 2020, he was joined by his long-time friend, Ashkenazi. After practicing in New York, she wanted to join Wolfenson’s practice due to
its family-like atmosphere when representing clients dealing with important life transactions and matters.
“We handle matters such as divorce, real estate, estate planning and probate matters, bankruptcy, and business law, so we’re uniquely positioned to address any issue that may arise for families,” Wolfenson says.
The firm provides straightforward, honest assessments of each case to help clients devise realistic goals and settle matters as quickly and efficiently as possible.
“We treat each client as if they are our only client as we guide families through important life transactions, like divorce, buying a home and protecting that asset,” Ashkenazi says.
CADICINA LAW, LLC
FAMILY LAW / MATRIMONIAL LAW / DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Cadicina Law, LLC, has been litigating and resolving divorce, matrimonial, family law and domestic violence matters for over twenty-five years. The firm and its attorneys have been recognized by New Jersey Monthly, “Super Lawyers,” Martindale-Hubbell AV Rated, “Best Lawyers,” “Best Law Firms” and by Morris/Essex Magazine as “Top Lawyers.”
A court-approved economic mediator, Joseph Cadicina also performs private divorce mediation and arbitration services for families seeking alternative methods of dispute resolution.
“We provide our clients with the expertise and resources of a larger firm, but with the personal touch of a boutique family law practice,” he says. “We pride ourselves on helping families get through a difficult time in their lives—and always explaining the reality of the circumstances.”
Joseph P. Cadicina, Esq., Thomas R. McConnell, Esq., Carly DiFrancisco, Esq., Pasqua Sciancalepore Cadicina, Esq., Mauro D. Altamura, Esq. 36 Cattano Ave., 6th Fl., Morristown 279 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff • 973-270-9166 • cadicinalaw.com
KAPLAN LAW GROUP, PC
BUSINESS/ESTATE
FPLANNING/REAL ESTATE/TAX LAW
ounded in 2012, the Kaplan Law Group supports clients with compassion, integrity, responsiveness and trust. The firm provides personalized solutions in real estate, business planning and estate, trust and tax planning and administration.
As founding member and managing partner, Brad M. Kaplan utilizes his expertise working in both large and boutique firms to provide high-quality, efficient service for families. He assists each individual client, taking a holistic, pragmatic approach while providing everything from the simple to highly complicated.
Kaplan prides himself on being exceptionally responsive to clients and taking the time to listen to their unique needs. “I have real-life experience with the issues facing my clients, so I understand the importance of offering alternative solutions and determining the approach that’s right for their families,” he says.
Brad M. Kaplan, Esq. Offices in Berkeley Heights, Fairfield and New York 973-313-3377 kaplanlawpc.com
MARIA J. LA SALA, ESQ.
Maria J. La Sala is a detail-oriented, compassionate attorney who prides herself on being responsive and committed to offering personalized attention to bringing conflicts to an amicable resolution. Practicing family law for three decades, she takes the time to understand each family’s situation to advocate the best outcomes.
She says she chose to practice family law to help kids. “A divorce can be traumatic for the entire family, and adults often lose sight of its impact on children… so everything I do is always with their best interests
in mind,” she says. “I firmly believe that every case can and should be resolved through mediation and there’s nothing more rewarding to me—especially when children are involved—than helping a couple craft their own settlement and resolution.”
Maria is highly experienced in mediation and helping couples avoid costly litigation to reach a settlement. She is also trained in Parenting Coordination.
Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann and Knopf LLP
Park 80 West-Plaza One, 250 Pehle Ave., Ste. 401, Saddle Book 201-845-9600, x136 • njlawfirm.com
Joseph P. Cadicina
RIKER DANZIG LLP
FAMILY LAW
Practicing family law for more than 20 years, Allen Scazafabo prides himself on his accessibility to clients and ability to devise creative solutions while enacting positive change in the law. He provides a personalized, intuitive approach to meeting his clients’ needs and achieving their goals. A partner of Riker Danzig, Scazafabo collaborates with the attorneys at the 140-year-old firm to help clients resolve issues that arise during their divorce, from taxes to real estate.
“We know how important these issues are for families, so we go the extra mile for our clients,” says
the father of three. “I often work around the clock and make sure they can always reach me.”
Certified by the NJ Supreme Court as a matrimonial law attorney, he was named to the Advisory Board for the American Academy for Certified Financial Litigators in 2020 and served on the Family Law Executive Committee of the NJ State Bar Association.
Allen J. Scazafabo, Jr., Esq. 1 Speedwell Ave., Headquarters Plaza, Morristown 973-451-8428 • riker.com
WILLIAMS LAW GROUP
FAMILY LAW
Williams Law Group is a leading family law firm with a full-service child welfare division dedicated to child abuse, neglect and maltreatment. A Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Allison C. Williams and her team are skilled in complex financial matters and negotiating, mediating and litigating family law disputes. “As someone who has personally experienced child abuse and neglect, I felt my life’s purpose was to help others,” Williams says. “We serve as compassionate anchors for our clients
through the storm of their family dissolution or dispute.” The firm’s attorneys are degreed in Psychology, and serve as mediators and parenting coordinators for families. They frequently lecture at the local, state and international level. “Our expertise informs our approach with clients, which is focused on helping them reformulate their lives,” she says.
Allison C. Williams, Esq., LaDonna M. Cousins, Esq. , Sara E. Kucsan, Esq., Alvin Eugene Richards III, Esq. Parsippany • 908-810-1083, Short Hills •908-774-8492 familylawyersnewjersey.com
Deeply knowledgeable, genuine, caring, passionate, dependable and accessible … these are just a handful of the words YOU, our readers, used to describe your favorite attorneys. Thanks to this year’s nominees for being tireless advocates and fighters for families throughout the Garden State. Congratulations to the Best NJ Lawyers for Families for 2025!
L-R: (back row) Judith Miller, Jasmine Harvey, Aanya Assin, A. Eugene Richards, III, Robin Schilling (middle row) Helen Newman, Sondra Bell, Heejae Chang, Heather Rice (front row) Joel Sikovsky, Sara Kucsan, Allison Williams, LaDonna Cousins, Tamiaya Mosesly
Health, Hope & Sisterhood
New Jersey Activist Deb Belfatto is on a mission to boost women’s wellness.
By Dina El Nabli
Deb Belfatto is a force for women’s health and wellness. The tireless advocate has an unwavering belief in lifting up the women around her. It’s long been her calling, or as she puts it, her path to purpose. When it comes to health in all its forms, Belfatto wants to make sure every woman has access to the education and support needed not just to survive, but to thrive.
That mission began in 1988, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at 33 years old. Her daughter Lindsay was just 2. “There were no young women talking about breast cancer then,” she recalls. “I was sitting in waiting rooms filled with older women, and I felt so isolated. I didn’t know a single person my age who had been through this.”
She also knew immediately that she had something many other women didn’t. “I had resources. And I was quickly struck by how many women didn’t,” she says. That realization eventually led her to co-found the North Jersey affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a force for breast cancer education, screening and research funding in New Jersey. For more than 15 years, she helped raise millions of dollars to support women— especially those in underserved communities—making sure they got the mammograms, treatment and support they needed.
Then, in 2021—35 years after her first diagnosis—Belfatto got the call she never imagined would come a second time. “I had breast cancer again,” she says, referring to it as her WTF number two. But this time, she was empowered with enough information to be an honorary oncologist and had a team of doctors led by one who is also a dear friend. She knew she was ready to face that second diagnosis and treatment plan with full optimism.
EMBRACING A PATH TO PURPOSE
She also knew she wanted to frame her journey in a way that gave others hope. “Everything leads you somewhere,” she says. “And this time, it led me to Let’s Talk.” Belfatto wanted to reach and support women who lack access to care. She wanted to remind women who put themselves on the back burner while taking care of their kids or elderly parents to prioritize themselves, too. She wanted all women to know there is community in sisterhood and that sisterhood does wonders for both physical and mental health.
Belfatto was raised by a supportive and nurturing mother who taught her not just to count her blessings but to share them. She grew up in Essex County, spent more than two decades in Summit, where her daughter Lindsay was raised, and now calls Jersey City home—a community she loves for its energy, walkability and diversity.
Every day, Belfatto is filled with gratitude for what she calls her abundant blessings—her husband Joe Belfatto (not only her partner in life but also in all things philanthropic), her daughter Lindsay and son-in-law Marcus, and grandkids Rocco and Louie. Having support from family and friends has been instrumental in creating New Jersey’s biggest day dedicated to women’s health and wellness.
THE EVOLUTION OF LET’S TALK
Let’s Talk Women’s Health & Wellness isn’t just a one-day symposium. It’s a movement. Now in its third year, it has become the must-attend Garden State gathering for women’s self-care. The 2025 event, held this past March at NJPAC in Newark, was a day filled with expert discussions,
personal stories, and hands-on wellness experiences. “Women walked in and left with new friends, new perspectives, and a renewed commitment to their health,” Belfatto says.
When she first imagined Let’s Talk, Belfatto envisioned a space where women could talk openly about everything from breast health to financial well-being. This year’s symposium highlighted the five pillars of Let’s Talk: physical well-being, mental health, spiritual wellness, financial health, and human connection.
The event featured a wellness lounge where women took part in movement sessions, meditation and self-care workshops, as well as a marketplace showcasing women-owned businesses. A major focus this year was health equity, with on-site mobile mammography screenings ensuring access to critical preventive care. “No woman should be denied the same quality of care that I received,” Belfatto says. “Health equity is everything.”
With Let’s Talk Women’s Health & Wellness’s recent transition to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Belfatto is focused on keeping the conversation going year-round. You can follow along at letstalkwellwomen.org. Belfatto hopes to host regular community events and launch a podcast aimed at continuing the dialogue on women’s health, self-care, and empowerment.
“There’s so much more to talk about,” she says. “I want every woman to know that she matters,” she says. “That she’s worthy of care, of joy, of taking up space. Let’s Talk is not just an event—it’s a mindset shift.”
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: BELFATTO AND HER HUSBAND JOE AT A PAST LET’S TALK SYMPOSIUM; THE BELFATTO FAMILY IN PUGLIA, ITALY; BELFATTO TAPES A PODCAST EPISODE WITH HER LET’S TALK TEAM (PICTURED FROM LEFT) MARLIE MASSENA, SALLY YOUNGHANS AND LISA MARIE FALBO.
Spring is all about flower festivals, street fairs and more outdoor fun.
April 5-6, 12-13
Cherry Blossom Festival
Newark comes alive with gorgeous cherry blossoms in April, and the city spends a week celebrating! Activities include a bike race, a 10K run, a 1-mile fun run, Family Day and Bloomfest! at Essex County Branch Brook Park. branchbrookpark. org/cherryblossoms
Mid-April to May
U-Pick Tulips:
Spring Spectacular
Walk through fields of 8 million tulips at Holland Ridge Farms in Cream Ridge. The bulbs–and a brand-new windmill–are direct from Holland. There is weekday u-cut plus weekend festivals with markets, farm animals, hayrides and dozens of photo ops. hollandridgefarms.com
April 19
Fur Baby Food and Music Fest
Bring your furry friends to the Burlington County Fairgrounds in Columbus. Highlights include a doggie agility course, a pet costume contest, shopping, food and music. megabiteevents.com/festivals
April 13
Daffodil Day
Be part of this decades-old tradition at Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, where you’ll see more than 50,000 beautiful bulbs in bloom. There will be spring-themed games and crafts, a story trail, food trucks, market vendors and their famous goats. The flowers are on display from April 1-15. reeves-reedarboretum.org
April 26
Rutgers Day
Rutgers fans wait all year for the celebrations along College Avenue, on Busch campus and in the Cook/Douglass area of New Brunswick. There’s everything from food to agricultural displays, plant sales, a book sale, a farmers market, games for kids and participation from hundreds of local organizations. rutgers.edu/event/rutgers-day
May 23-26
Wildwoods International Kite Festival
After the Unlocking of the Beach ceremony at the Rio Grande Avenue beach area of Wildwood, see kites flying above the sand. The World Indoor Kite Competition and Performance happens inside the convention center. skyfestivals.com/events
May 17-18, 24-25, 31; and June 1, 7-8
Renaissance Faire
Come to the Shire of New Crossford (aka Columbus, NJ) for jousting events, stage shows, live music, fire breathing stunts, knights, bubble magicians and acrobatics. njrenfaire.com
Through April 27 PEEPS in
the Village
Peddler’s Village in PA will be as sweet as ever, when nearly 100 marshmallow creations decorate the shops. There will be wall art, dioramas and sculptures dedicated to the beloved Easter candy. peddlersvillage.com
For more events near you or to add your own, go to njfamily.com/events
All events are subject to cancellation so call ahead before heading out.
May 30 – June 1
Michael Arnone’s Crawfish Fest
The New Orleans-inspired food and music festival is back after a hiatus. Cajun, Zydeco, Delta Blues, New Orleans R&B, brass, gospel and jazz musicians will take to the main and pavilion stages at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta as you feast on seafood options. crawfishfest.com
May 1-31
Mansion in May Designer Showcase and Gardens
Wildfair is a beautiful 55-acre country estate in Chester, and during May the mansion will be decorated by three dozen interior design firms who will reimagine all the rooms, balconies, French doors, bay windows and terraced pool for an exquisite experience as a fundraiser for Morristown Medical Center. mansioninmay.org
A Mother’s Day Well Spent
Moms do it all, and Mother’s Day is the perfect time to make sure they feel the love. What better way to celebrate the mamas in our lives than doing something fun together? We’ve rounded up fun ways to spend the day! Plan a day of sipping and celebrating on the Mother’s Day Wine Trail! Dozens of wineries and vineyards across New Jersey, part of the Garden State Wine Growers Association, will be hosting special events with tastings, food and live music May 9-11. newjerseywines.com/winetrails. Take Mother’s Day brunch to another level with an innovative menu featuring clothesline bacon, a pretzel-crusted crab cake and cheesecake lollipops at any of Chef David Burke’s NJ restaurants. chefdavidburke.com Plan high tea at The Mathis House in Toms River, where you can sip tea while enjoying fresh scones, pastries and finger sandwiches in a beautiful Victorian manor. mathishouse600main.com A day of shopping down the Shore? Count us in. On May 10 and 11, stroll through the Spring Bazaar in Asbury Park’s Grand Arcade and Convention Hall to shop unique, locally-made finds. asburyparkbazaar.com Plan a fun afternoon together and make a resin cheese board designed like the ocean at a workshop at The Bloomin Cottage in Phillipsburg on May 10. facebook.com/bloomincottage If Mom loves to laugh, take her to one of two comedy shows on May 11 for George Wallace’s Mother’s Day Celebration at NJPAC in Newark. njpac.org What’s better than flowers for Mom? A flower festival! See more than 250,000 flowering bulbs, dogwoods and rhododendrons at Hamilton Twp.’s Azalea Festival in Sayen Gardens on May 10. hamiltonnj.com/408/azalea-festival
By Rebecca Hastings
CAMP COUNTDOWN
What to consider when looking for your child’s happy place this summer
Deciding where your kids will go to summer camp is a big decision, but with the right information, it can be fun and exciting. Here’s what to consider when navigating the process.
LEAN INTO YOUR KID’S INTERESTS If your child has a specific interest, like soccer, music or science, a specialty camp might be perfect. If they love trying a bit of everything, a traditional camp with a variety of activities—like swimming, hiking, and arts and crafts—may be better.
GET RECOMMENDATIONS Word of mouth is powerful. Ask friends, neighbors, and other parents about their camp experiences. Look at online reviews or social media groups to get a broader sense of which camps have a great reputation.
CHECK ACCREDITATION Look for camps that are accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) or another trustworthy organization. Accreditation means the camp meets strict standards for safety, staffing and program quality. This gives you extra peace of mind.
REVIEW THE CAMP’S STAFF A well-trained and experienced staff is crucial for a positive camp experience. Ask about the counselor-to-camper ratio and the qualifications of the camp staff. Ideally, the camp should have counselors who are trained in first aid and child development. And there should always be certified lifeguards for all swimming or water activities.
ASK ABOUT SAFETY AND HEALTH PROTOCOLS Safety should always be a priority. Ask the camp about their health protocols, including how they handle medical issues or emergencies. Does the camp have nurses or trained medical staff on-site?
CONSIDER LOCATION AND COST Think about the commute, start and end times, and where it will be held. Don’t be afraid to ask about scholarships or discounts that can make camp more affordable.
VISIT THE CAMP IF YOU CAN Visiting the camp in person is a great way to get a feel for the environment. Many camps offer open houses or tours where you can meet the staff, see the facilities, and ask questions. This firsthand experience can help you feel more confident in your decision and give your child a sense of excitement about their upcoming adventure.
TRUST YOUR GUT
Finally, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking. You know your child best, and when you find the right camp, it will feel like the perfect fit.
With these tips in hand, you’re well on your way to choosing a camp that will give your child a summer filled with lasting memories.
—Rebecca Hastings is a former teacher whose writing has been featured on sites such as The Washington Post and Parents
