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Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ
It's hard to deny that we live in a world where health issues seem to be increasingly common. From allergies that baffle doctors to chronic pain that never seems to go away, it's no secret that many individuals struggle to maintain good health. Respiratory issues, reproductive complications, and other conditions add to the mix, making it clear that we're all susceptible to some kind of malady.
Unfortunately, many modern doctors still believe that throwing pills at the problem or scheduling surgery is the best way to provide long-term relief. While certain serious conditions can warrant such extreme treatments, a large percentage of Americans are looking for something far less harmful and much more holistic. They're looking high and low for a reliable, well-studied solution that doesn't require time off work or sketchy pain medications.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, one of the most effective and exciting treatments we've seen work for such patients is acupuncture in Middletown, NJ - a modern take on an ancient treatment that has been used for thousands of years.
- Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ
- Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ
- Is Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ Actually Legit?
- What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ?
- The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
- Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
- What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
- The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ
If you're new to holistic healing, acupuncture may seem intimidating. You might be wondering how needles pressed into your skin could possibly make you feel better. Wouldn't someone pushing a needle into your back be painful? As it turns out, acupuncture is far from painful and is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after treatments for chronic pain and for regulating issues relating to:
- Digestion
- Hormones
- Breathing
- Muscles
- Nerves & Brain
- Sex & Libido
- Body Circulation
- Organs & Heart
In fact, acupuncture has been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years and, more recently, has been researched and supported by many scientific studies. While acupuncture may not be a "miracle" treatment for every type of pain or condition, it has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of issues, from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.
Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ
Acupuncture is a therapy in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that aims to balance the body's energy, called qi, which flows through pathways called meridians. This balance is crucial for overall wellness, as disruptions to qi can lead to health concerns. According to TCM, inserting small stainless-steel needles into specific points called acupoints along the meridians can help rebalance the flow of qi and restore overall health.
These acupoints are believed to release certain chemicals when stimulated, which can trigger an immune response and promote physiological homeostasis. Recent research suggests that this therapy may help alleviate symptoms of various health ailments.
In fact, the National Institute of Health conducted a survey on complementary health approaches, revealing that acupuncture usage in the United States has increased by 50 percent between 2002 and 2012. As of 2012, 6.4 percent of American adults have reported using acupuncture as a form of treatment.
Is Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ Actually Legit?
One of the most common questions from new patients interested in acupuncture typically revolves around whether it really works or whether it's all "new age" malarky. We get it - for most folks, the thought of inserting stainless-steel needles into one's back, arms, or neck sounds loony. However, with the ever-increasing popularity of acupuncture in New Jersey and other locations, numerous studies centering on acupuncture's effectiveness have taken place.
Extensive research has been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions. A February 2022 analysis published in the BMJ, which evaluated over 2,000 scientific reviews of acupuncture therapies, revealed that acupuncture's efficacy is strongest for:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Post-Stroke Aphasia
- Muscle Pain
- Lactation Issues
- Lower Back Pain
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Vascular Dementia
- More
Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), acupuncture is most effective for pain relief in cases of chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Additionally, a review of 11 clinical trials found that acupuncture may also alleviate symptoms associated with cancer treatment, as noted by the NIH.
What Happens During an Acupuncture Session at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness?
When meeting with your acupuncturist for the first time, they will discuss your condition with you before conducting a physical examination to identify areas of your body that might respond to acupuncture. The needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, sterile, and disposable, with your acupuncturist inserting them at different depths ranging from a fraction of an inch to several inches.
Acupuncture needles are less painful than medical needles used for vaccines or blood draws. This is because acupuncture needles are thinner and solid, not hollow. During the treatment, you may experience some muscle sensations like dull aches or tingling.
Your practitioner will ask you to report any deep heaviness or numbness, which are positive signs that the treatment is working. Depending on the condition you're treating and the supplemental treatments you're undergoing, like physical therapy, acupuncture needles will remain in place for several minutes or up to 30 minutes.
Once your first acupuncture treatment is finished, it's normal to feel extra relaxed and calm. For that reason, some patients like to arrange for a ride home after their first or second session. With that said, you shouldn't experience much pain at all, and it's quite possible for you to return to work after acupuncture.
How Many Treatments Until Acupuncture Works?
This is another common question that we get at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness. The simple answer is, "It depends." While we understand that that's not a satisfying answer for some, it's important to understand that every patient is different. Everyone has different bodies and, by proxy, different bodily conditions and issues that need to be addressed.
During your initial consultation at our office, your licensed acupuncturist will go over your needs and goals as it relates to acupuncture therapy. Once your therapist has a good sense of the scope of your needs, they can give you a loose idea of how many sessions you'll need.
Generally speaking, most patients have appointments once a week. Others may require more or less frequent sessions. It's important to note that the full benefits of acupuncture may not be immediately evident after the first or even the second session. It's common for normal patients to undergo up to five treatments to realize the full benefits of acupuncture.
What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ?
There's no question that acupuncture is more popular than ever as a non-invasive, non-addictive way to reclaim balance and well-being. But what types of conditions can this traditional therapy help alleviate in the modern world? Advances in acupuncture techniques and applications have resulted in some very promising benefits.
Relief from Chronic Pain
Did you know that regular acupuncture treatments can help reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis? In May 2017, a meta-analysis was published, which studied approximately 18,000 patients with chronic pain, such as low back, neck, and shoulder pain, knee OA, and headache or migraine. The analysis found that the benefits of acupuncture therapy in reducing pain lasted for more than 12 months.
That's wonderful news for athletes and other people who push their bodies daily to accomplish goals or bring home money for rent and bills. In fact, many medical experts consider acupuncture as a viable option for managing chronic pain in conjunction with traditional methods like physical therapy and chiropractic care. The idea behind this approach is that acupuncture may trigger the body's natural healing response to alleviate pain.
When a licensed acupuncturist in New Jersey inserts an acupuncture needle, it penetrates your fascia, a connective tissue that wraps around your organs and muscles. Like a slight tickle on your arm, your body realizes that something is happening and responds by delivering lymph fluid, blood, and other important nutrients to speed up healing in affected areas like your knees, back, neck, joints, and more.
Migraine Headache Relief
If you're like other people who suffer from migraines, you know that once one of them hits, it can be next to impossible to function properly throughout the day. Fortunately, acupuncture in Middletown, NJ may be a viable solution if you have to endure migraines often.
A study conducted in 2009 by the Center for Complementary Medicine at the University of Munich analyzed 11 studies involving 2,137 patients who received acupuncture treatment for chronic tension-type headaches. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective non-pharmacological solution for frequent headaches.
The study compared the effects of acupuncture sessions with sham acupuncture and no treatment at all. Both groups that received acupuncture treatment, whether needles were placed randomly or strategically, reported a reduction in headache symptoms, while the control group reported no change. The group that received real acupuncture treatment also reported a decrease in the number of headache days and intensity of pain in a follow-up survey.
Improved Sleep
For individuals who struggle with insomnia and other sleep disturbances, acupuncture is a promising therapy. Although sedatives are commonly prescribed for insomnia, long-term use can lead to negative side effects such as dependence and excessive drowsiness.
A study conducted on 72 participants and published in Sleep Medicine in 2017 found that individuals who received acupuncture three times a week for four weeks experienced significant improvements in sleep quality and anxiety compared to those who received sham acupuncture.
Similarly, a review of 30 randomized, controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective in improving sleep quality and daytime functioning than sham acupuncture.
Better Recovery from Surgery
While many patients choose acupuncture as a way to avoid surgery altogether, those who need surgery also use it for improved recovery. Because, at the end of the day, recovering from surgery is no easy feat. Patients may experience various symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain around the incision, restlessness, sleep troubles, constipation, and sore throat.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, healthcare providers may use acupuncture as a way to alleviate some of these symptoms and help with healing. A study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies in January 2017 involving 172 participants found that patients who received acupuncture after surgery reported significant improvements in sleep, anxiety, pain, fatigue, nausea, and drowsiness.
The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
Did you know that supplementing physical therapy with acupuncture and vice versa can have profoundly beneficial effects for patients in New Jersey and across the country? If you're like most, chances are you didn't.
The truth is that acupuncture and physical therapy have both been proven effective in reducing pain and inflammation. While many people view them as separate methods, combining the two modalities can produce a synergistic effect that enhances pain relief and delivers long-lasting benefits to patients.
Physical therapists work with patients of all ages and abilities, from children to elderly adults, to help them overcome physical limitations and improve their quality of life. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists help treat a wide range of conditions, from neck pain and spinal cord injuries to back pain and arthritis.
To effectively reduce pain and treat tissue injury, a combination of acupuncture and physical therapy can be very helpful. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation and release muscle tightness and trigger points, allowing the patient to better receive manual therapy or exercise-based physical therapy techniques. In doing so, acupuncture can actually create a window of time that allows your body to respond better to other treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.
There are many benefits of combining physical therapy with acupuncture in Middletown, NJ, including the following:
- Increased Range of Motion
- More Effective Long-Term Pain Relief
- Enhanced Tissue Repair & Healing
- Better Response to Physical Therapy Due to Pain Reduction
- Less of a Need for Pain Medications
- Boosted Mood & Energy
- Better Quality of Life Overall
You may be wondering, "Are there any studies showing these benefits?" As it turns out, there are many. One such study, published on the NIH's website, was conducted on patients suffering from frozen shoulder.
Patients who received acupuncture experienced a significant reduction in pain, while those who underwent physical therapy saw an improvement in range of motion. However, the best outcome was observed in patients who received a combination of both treatments, with reduced pain, increased their range of motion, and improved quality of life. This study highlights the potential benefits of using acupuncture and physical therapy as complementary treatments for frozen shoulder.
It makes sense, then, that people from all walks of life are combining acupuncture with chiropractic treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, including:
- Professional Athletes
- Football Players
- Soccer Players
- Baseball Players
- Construction Workers
- Landscapers
- Accountants and People Working Office Jobs
- Public Officials
- Police Officers
- More
Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
At New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, our doctors, practitioners, occupational therapists, and physical therapist specialize in a range of therapies and treatments. Much like physical therapy and acupuncture, combining chiropractic care with acupuncture therapy gives patients a new way to reclaim their mobility, reduce chronic pain, and maintain a healthy quality of life.
Chiropractic care and acupuncture in Middletown, NJ are natural healing practices that don't rely on drugs to improve the body's health. They focus on correcting imbalances in the body's structural and supportive systems, promoting natural healing, and ultimately leading to better health. These practices have a proven track record of helping patients improve their quality of life and overcome physical difficulties.
What are the Benefits of Using Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care?
Integrating chiropractic and acupuncture as a dual-modality treatment offers the most efficient solution for removing blockages from the body, promoting balance, and accelerating healing. Rather than using these treatments sequentially, a combined approach allows for maximum benefits at one time.
Chiropractic targets subluxations in the nervous system through manual adjustments, facilitating the central nervous system to promote healing, while acupuncture removes blockages that may hinder the body's internal balance. Together, these treatments work synergistically to optimize energy flow and restore harmony in the body.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
When our physical well-being becomes imbalanced, and our innate healing mechanisms are compromised, illnesses can manifest. The integration of acupuncture and chiropractic practices can effectively address a wide range of health conditions that they individually target, such as:
- Sports Injuries
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Insomnia
- Chronic Conditions Like Diabetes
- More
Curious if combining chiropractic care or physical therapy with acupuncture is right for your body? The best way to find out is to make an appointment at our sports rehab clinic in New Jersey. Once our team of medical professionals has a chance to evaluate your conditions, we can explore the best options to provide the most relief in the shortest amount of time possible.
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The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Middletown, NJ
New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness consists of a team of athletic trainers, chiropractors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other professionals. We're very proud and passionate about caring for our patients, many of whom are suffering from debilitating conditions like back and neck pain, plantar fasciitis, sports-related injuries, and more. If you're trying to get on the road to pain relief and recovery, acupuncture may be the non-surgical solution you need to reclaim your life. Contact our office today to learn whether this exciting treatment is right for you.
732-526-2497
Latest News in Middletown, NJ
This NJ station has $6 gas that you can never buy — here’s why
Mike Branthttps://nj1015.com/six-dollar-gas-station-middletown-nj/
When I saw this, I had to do a double-take. Did the price per gallon really shoot past the $6 mark?I know gas prices are going up all throughout the state, but $6 gas is just ridiculous. In fact, it's probably the highest unleaded price any of us will see in New Jersey (as of Mar. 19, 2026, that is).Look, if gas prices everywhere got to this point, I think it's safe to say most of us will stick to walking and only drive when necessary. There's just no way any of us in the right mind will stop at this station displaying such an ...
When I saw this, I had to do a double-take. Did the price per gallon really shoot past the $6 mark?
I know gas prices are going up all throughout the state, but $6 gas is just ridiculous. In fact, it's probably the highest unleaded price any of us will see in New Jersey (as of Mar. 19, 2026, that is).
Look, if gas prices everywhere got to this point, I think it's safe to say most of us will stick to walking and only drive when necessary. There's just no way any of us in the right mind will stop at this station displaying such an astronomical price.
Fortunately for us, you can't fill your tank here (not that you'd want to anyway). Even if you wanted to pay those prices or stop into the convenience stores, you'll never be able to.
That's because this brand new gas station isn't functional. Instead, it was built as a set for a movie shoot that just so happens to be taking place at the old Circle Liquor Store location off of Route 35 in Middletown.
Or, as I refer to it as, the famous evil clown parking lot.
If you don't remember seeing this gas station in Middletown, you're not alone. This movie set was built incredibly fast, and, quite honestly, it looks very impressive considering how fast it went up. I almost wish it would open to the public as I think it would do well here (well, maybe not with those gas prices).
According to Patch, Middletown "cannot reveal any details about who is in the movie, including actors. The production companies are MRC and Truck Stop Productions."
Crews are expected to continue filming through late June. Once filming is complete, it'll go back to the empty evil clown parking lot we're all familiar with.
So for now, it's a mystery. What's this movie going to be about? And more importantly, is it a lens into what our gas prices are eventually going to be? I sure hope not.
If you have a chance, take a ride and check it out for yourself. But please keep in mind that it is an active movie set and filming may be taking place. That's why the lot is closed off... don't trespass.
But the fact that it's right by the evil clown makes it that much more interesting. It legit looks like a fully functional gas station in person. You have to love it when filming like this happens in New Jersey.
The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 weekend host & content contributor Mike Brant. Any opinions expressed are his own.
Parents Chant “Put Children First” As NJ School Board Votes To Close 3 Schools
Matt Ryanhttps://943thepoint.com/middletown-nj-school-closures/
Big decisions about schools always hit close to home. Recently, a very populated and divided town ended a long and emotional night with a vote that will reshape the local school system for years to come.After hours of debate, public comment, and some very tense moments in the meeting room, the local board of education voted to close three school buildings as part of a plan to shrink the district's overall size.The meeting stretched for more than five hours. Dozens of parents showed up, many pleading with the board to reconsider...
Big decisions about schools always hit close to home. Recently, a very populated and divided town ended a long and emotional night with a vote that will reshape the local school system for years to come.
After hours of debate, public comment, and some very tense moments in the meeting room, the local board of education voted to close three school buildings as part of a plan to shrink the district's overall size.
The meeting stretched for more than five hours. Dozens of parents showed up, many pleading with the board to reconsider. At one point, the room erupted into chants of “Put children first” as board members prepared to take the final roll-call vote.
It was the kind of scene that shows just how personal these decisions are for families.
It usually comes down to money (of course) and enrollment. In many cases, school districts see student numbers decline, while costs continue to climb.
In this New Jersey school district, officials say the financial outlook is getting worse quickly. A projected deficit of about $3.2 million is expected for the 2026 to 2027 school year. They claim that the number could grow to nearly $14 million within a few years if major changes are not made.
Administrators in this town believe shrinking the district footprint will help manage staffing levels, which make up the largest portion of the budget.
The plan also continues a trend already underway in the district. One elementary school closed back in 2020 after enrollment dropped.
The district at the center of this decision is the Middletown Township Public School District, one of the largest districts in Monmouth County.
Three schools will close as part of the new plan. Leonardo Elementary School, Navesink Elementary School, and Bayshore Middle School will all be affected.
Students from Leonardo and Navesink will move into the current Bayshore building, which will be converted into Bayshore Elementary School.
Middle school students who currently attend Bayshore will be reassigned to Thorne and Thompson Middle Schools.
Once the changes are complete, the district will operate 10 elementary schools feeding into two middle schools.
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According to The Patch, the final vote was extremely close.
Five board members voted in favor of closing the schools, while four voted against the plan. Several members who opposed the closures warned that the changes could lead to overcrowding and questioned whether enough financial analysis had been done.
Others argued the district had no choice.
One board member became emotional while explaining her vote, acknowledging that the decision would be painful for many families but saying delaying tough decisions could make the situation even worse later.
If anything was clear by the end of the night, it was this. For many families in Middletown, the conversation about the future of their schools is far from over.
March Programs For Adults At Middletown Public Library
Carly Baldwinhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/middletown-nj/march-programs-adults-middletown-public-library
Here is everything planned, all free and open to the public:MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) announced its line-up of adult events for March.Additional information and registration can be found at mtpl.org. Any questions, please contact the reference desk at 732-671-3700, ext. 320.Virtual Talk: Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Author Michael PerryOn Wednesday, March 4 at 2 pm, humorist Michael Perry will share humor, heart, and reflective rural stories fr...
Here is everything planned, all free and open to the public:
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) announced its line-up of adult events for March.
Additional information and registration can be found at mtpl.org. Any questions, please contact the reference desk at 732-671-3700, ext. 320.
Virtual Talk: Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Author Michael Perry
On Wednesday, March 4 at 2 pm, humorist Michael Perry will share humor, heart, and reflective rural stories from his books. Visit mtpl.org to register for a link to the virtual presentation.
Virtual Seminar: Cracking the Code — Affordable College Solutions
On Thursday, March 5 at 7 pm, Carl Barling and Jodi Simon of Cornerstone College & Wealth Solutions will explore ways to pay for college, including financial aid, scholarships, college savings strategies, recent legislation impacting affordability, and ways families at all income levels can reduce costs and preserve their financial future. Visit mtpl.org to register for a link to the virtual presentation.
NJ Author Talk: Paging New Jersey: A Literary Guide to the Garden State
Join the New Jersey Book Club on Friday, March 6 at 1 pm as author James F. Broderick discusses the Garden State's numerous contributions to American literature and shares his own personal experiences writing about New Jersey history. This lecture is part of the library's Community History Project and was made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
New Jersey Book Club: The Barrens: A Novel of Suspense
Join us on Monday, March 9 at 12 pm to discuss this startling and complex tale by Rosamond Smith (aka Joyce Carol Oates), following a serial killer and the people his crimes touch and transform. Participants may attend in person in the History Room or register at mtpl.org to receive a Zoom link.
Tech Tuesdays: Design with Canva Basics & Internet Basics and Online Safety
Perfect your design and internet safety skills with a Tech Tuesday session in March at MTPL. Join us on Tuesday, March 10 at 2:30 pm to learn the basics of Canva, a free online design platform that makes it easy to create professional-looking graphics. New computer users are invited to the Internet Basics session on Tuesday, March 31 at 2:30 pm to learn how to navigate the internet, use search engines, and explore websites safely.
Virtual Talk: Book Portals and Journeys of Literary Magic with Kate Quinn
On Thursday, March 12 at 7 pm, acclaimed author Kate Quinn will discuss her latest work, The Astral Library, a fantastical novel that poses the question: Have you ever wished you could live inside a book? Visit mtpl.org to register for a link to the virtual presentation.
Emo Music Bingo
Grab your eyeliner and skinny jeans and join us on Wednesday, March 12 at 7 pm for a night of music bingo dedicated to all your favorite emo hits. This program is for adults 18+.
America 250 Lecture: The Continental Soldier — How He Lived, Dressed, and Fought
Part of MTPL’s continuing celebration leading up to the United State’s 250th birthday, Dr. Bill Anania will lead a presentation on Friday, March 13 at 2 pm to discuss and demonstrate the clothing and equipment of the average Patriot soldier during the American Revolution.
Genealogy Club: Researching Your Irish Ancestors
Join fellow researchers on Wednesday, March 18 at 2 pm as Maureen Winski Maloney presents this month's topic, "Researching Your Irish Ancestors."
America 250 Community Read: 1776 by David McCullough
Join us by the fireside at the Grover House, located at 930 West Front Street, on Thursday, March 19 at 2 pm to discuss chapters 5 and 6 of David McCullough's Pulitzer Prize winning account of the events of 1776, the American Revolution, and its effect on communities, soldiers, people of color, Native Americans, African Americans, and women.
Researching Revolutionary War Patriots, Part 3 with the Middletown DAR
Join the Middletown Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution on Friday, March 20 at 11 am for one-on-one help with a Middletown DAR genealogist as you use FamilySearch public trees and the National Society DAR database to identify potential Revolutionary War ancestors. Please bring a laptop — Chromebooks are available to borrow at the Reference Desk with a Middletown Library card (please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the workshop).
Makers Day: Technology Through the Ages
Celebrate America's 250th anniversary on Saturday, March 21 from 11 am to 2 pm with a special themed Maker Day event featuring demonstrations, games, crafts, and an exploration of how STEM has evolved over the past 250 years.
Virtual Author Talk: America's Failed Response to the Opioid Crisis with Shoshana Walter & Barbara Kingsolver
On Tuesday, March 24 at 2 pm, author Shoshana Walter and special guest host Barbara Kingsolver will discuss Walter's book Rehab: An American Scandal, in which the Pulitzer finalist exposes the country's failed response to the opioid crisis and the corruption plaguing the drug rehabilitation industry. Visit mtpl.org to register for a link to the virtual presentation.
Adult Zining Workshop
Embrace your creativity at MTPL’s Zining group for adults with resident archivist Laura Poll on Wednesday, March 25 at 1 pm in the Makerspace. No artistic skills are needed, and all supplies will be provided.
Demystifying Artificial Intelligence
Join presenter Eddi Khaytman on Wednesday, March 25 at 6:30 pm for an engaging and informative introduction to the world of Artificial Intelligence and its real-world applications. The presentation will explore why AI excites and concerns so many people, its implications for society, and will feature demonstrations of some of today's most powerful AI tools, including ChatGPT, Midjourney, Sora, Perplexity, ElevenLabs, and Adobe Firefly.
Visit mtpl.org to read more or to sign up for upcoming programs. Please contact Jenna O’Donnell at jodonnell@mtpl.org for additional information.
Middletown Library's March Programs For Kids, Tweens And Teens
Carly Baldwinhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/middletown-nj/middletown-librarys-march-programs-kids-tweens-teens
MIDDLETOWN, NJ – As spring blooms and Maker March arrives, the Middletown Township Public Library invites children and teens to explore a season of fun, hands-on, and educational activities.What's planned for kids:The Brainy Bunch – Wednesdays at 4:30 pm: Join a weekly STEM-based program for Grade K–5 combining education, experimentation and fun.Duplo Free Play – Fridays at 11 am: Bring your little builders for open-ended Duplo playtime! Ages 2+ are invited to get creative, build big, and have fun...
MIDDLETOWN, NJ – As spring blooms and Maker March arrives, the Middletown Township Public Library invites children and teens to explore a season of fun, hands-on, and educational activities.
What's planned for kids:
The Brainy Bunch – Wednesdays at 4:30 pm: Join a weekly STEM-based program for Grade K–5 combining education, experimentation and fun.
Duplo Free Play – Fridays at 11 am: Bring your little builders for open-ended Duplo playtime! Ages 2+ are invited to get creative, build big, and have fun together—no registration needed.
Tween Game Night – Tuesday, March 3 at 7 pm: Bring a friend or make a friend while playing games like Trivia, Bingo, Pictionary, HeadsUp and more. For ages 9-12.
Cards for a Cause – Wednesday, March 4, 3–5 pm: Drop in to make St. Patrick’s Day greeting cards for Middletown seniors. Volunteer Hours will be offered for each card with a limit of 5 cards for 5 hours. For ages 13-18.
Gymboree for Walkers & Crawlers – Thursday, March 5 at 10 am and 11 am: Gymboree of Red Bank will offer gym classes for toddlers and babies.
Dinosaur Storytime and Craft – Friday, March 6 at 10 am: Join Monmouth Museum volunteer Denise Hibell for a story time and craft inspired by the museum’s dinosaur exhibit.
Family Storytime and Craft Spinning Wooden Tops – Saturday, March 7 at 10 am: Join us for a special America 250 themed storytime & craft to learn about wooden tops, one of the oldest toys in history, and a favorite pastime for children during the colonial era, over 250 years ago.
Gymboree for Infants – Tuesday, March 10 at 12:30 pm: Join a special gym class with Gymboree of Red Bank for newborns up to seven months with music, a parachute, bubbles and more!
Tween Book Club – Tuesday, March 10 at 4:15 pm: Tween ages 9–12 will meet to discuss their monthly book selection, enjoy a related activity, and socialize during the second half of the program.
Stuffed Animal Storytime and Sleepover – Tuesday, March 10 at 6:30 pm: Children ages 3 and up are invited to bring stuffed animal friends for a special library sleepover! Enjoy a bedtime story before tucking your plushie companion in for the night, then come back the next day to discover what adventures they got up to.
Teen Catapult Competition – Wednesday, March 11 at 7 pm: Learn how to make catapults out of popsicle sticks and compete against your friends for prizes. For ages 13–18.
Read to a Dog – Thursday, March 12 at 4 pm and Monday, March 16 at 6 pm: Improve the literacy skills of children by reading ten minutes to a certified therapy dog. Four sessions are available on each date. For independent readers in Grades K–5.
Leprechaun Storytime – Tuesday, March 17 at 10 am: Join us on St. Patrick’s Day for a special story time and craft with a leprechaun, co-sponsored by Middletown Parks and Recreation.
St. Patrick’s Day Craft – Tuesday, March 17 at 3:30 pm: Create a craft with Bayshore Family Success Center.
Bookworms Book Club – Thursday, March 19 at 4:15 pm: Join the Bookworms Book Club for grades K–3 to share your love of reading and join the Bookworms Reading Challenge!
Sensory Family Storytime – Friday, March 20 at 10 am: Read, sing, dance, and play, then explore our interactive sensory stations! Designed for ages 0–3.
NJ Makers Day, “Technology Through the Ages” – Saturday, March 21 at 11 am: Celebrate America's 250th birthday with a special Makers Day event! Enjoy demonstrations, games, crafts and learn how STEM evolved over 250 years. All ages welcome.
Teen Anime Club – Monday, March 23 at 4 pm: Join the Anime Club create trading cards featuring your own manga characters! For ages 10+.
Tween Craft Night – Tuesday, March 24 at 6:45 pm: Join a special craft night for tweens to create Yarn Art Masterpieces. For ages 9–12.
Pokémon Trading Night – Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 pm: Join fellow Pokémon fans to trade cards, chat about Pokémon books and movies, and play the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Bring your own deck; best for ages 5+ / Grades K–4.
Community Leader Storytime – Friday, March 27 at 10 am: Celebrate Women's History Month in March with Middletown Committeewoman Kimberly Kratz, who will share stories and talk about what a committeewoman does!
Drop-In Tiny Art Show – Saturday, March 28 at 10 am: Create a tiny art project with The 4-H Kindness Club to add to a month-long display in the Children’s Program Room.
Eyes of the Wild – Monday, March 30 at 2 pm: Meet and learn about another fascinating and entertaining group of animals with handler Travis Gale.
Snapology – Tuesday, March 31 at 2 pm: Join Snapology’s STEAM lab for For ages 5-8 and actively experiment with the principles of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.
Visit mtpl.org to read more or to sign up for upcoming programs. Please contact Jenna O’Donnell at jodonnell@mtpl.org for additional information.
Middletown to close 2 schools a year after raising taxes to save them
Amanda Oglesbyhttps://www.app.com/story/news/education/2026/02/27/middletown-school-district-says-it-will-close-2-schools-parents-tax-hike-10-million/88893928007/
Feb. 27, 2026Updated March 2, 2026, 12:32 p.m. ETMIDDLETOWN ― The Board of Education has crafted a plan to close two elementary schools by September, a decision that drew screams and shouts from parents during a school board meeting on Feb. 26.That evening, a majority of the Board of Education voted to direct school administrators to draft the 2026-27 school budget assuming that Leonardo and Navesink elementary schools are closed.The district is facing an estimated $3 million budget gap for the 2026-27 school year. All...
Feb. 27, 2026Updated March 2, 2026, 12:32 p.m. ET
MIDDLETOWN ― The Board of Education has crafted a plan to close two elementary schools by September, a decision that drew screams and shouts from parents during a school board meeting on Feb. 26.
That evening, a majority of the Board of Education voted to direct school administrators to draft the 2026-27 school budget assuming that Leonardo and Navesink elementary schools are closed.
The district is facing an estimated $3 million budget gap for the 2026-27 school year. All New Jersey public schools must have a tentative, balanced budget prepared by spring.
More than 100 parents protested the move to close schools during the board meeting, which was held at Middletown High School North and lasted through midnight. At times, the crowed yelled and shouted at school board members. Some yelled profanities. Others raised their voices into the microphone during a public comment period. Students lined up to plead for board members to leave their schools open.
Last year, the board raised school taxes 10.1% to eliminate a $10 million budget hole and prevent closing schools. This year, the school is reconsidering that earlier proposal.
A higher "student-teacher ratio is really just gonna create chaos," said Maggie Weikel, a mom with children in River Plaza Elementary who attended the meeting.
Logan D'Alessio, a sixth grader at Bayshore Elementary, worried about how the changes would impact him and his friends. He worried about being pushed into a more crowded school next year.
"I just got to the (Bayshore) school, and I think it's very fun, and I don't want to switch schools in the middle of my middle school career," he said.
In a district restructuring plan shared by NJ.com, students at the Leonardo and Navesink schools would be moved to Bayshore Elementary beginning in September. Bayshore Middle School would be closed in the future and its students moved Thorne and Thompson middle schools.
The Board of Education did not include any mention of closing Bayshore Middle School in its recent resolution on the budget.
Middletown currently has 11 elementary schools in a district that serves less than 8,700 students. For comparison, Toms River Regional School District has 12 elementary schools, but has more than 14,100 students.
However, Middletown school officials are anticipating overcrowding within some of the schools in the southern section of the township. Last month, the school board heard plans to redistrict students at Harmony, Lincroft and River Plaza schools and shift them to Middletown Village and Ocean Avenue in order to reduce future crowding.
Under the most recent plan, district officials are looking to sell or lease Leonardo Elementary and Bayshore Middle School. The district does not own the Navesink school building.
Officials also plan to also hold a bond referendum that would help pay for construction and build classrooms on the remaining schools. Construction could begin sometime in 2028, according to the plan.
By laying off the schools' staffs and eliminating spending on maintenance and repairs of the buildings, the district would save between $3.5 million and $4 million every year, according to the restructuring proposal.
Board President Chris Aveta said that maintaining the status quo and only raising taxes 2% annually ― the maximum allowed under state law without voter approval ― would leave the school district with an ever widening budget gap.
"We'll still face budget deficits of $6.6 million in (school year) '27-'28, $10.2 million in '28-'29, and $13.9 million in '29-'30," he told the school board during the meeting.
That was little consolation for the parents and students who believed the changes would upend their educational experience.
"I am pretty upset about this," said Benjamin Hecht, a Bayshore Elementary sixth grader. "It's hard for me to get adjusted and connected in a school's environment."
The 11-year-old said he felt safe with classmates and staff at Bayshore.
"All the other schools in Middletown are already overcrowded," he said.
Elizabeth Hamill also worried about the future school closures, and said she worried her child's education at River Plaza Elementary would be impacted by the changes under discussion.
"It seems like every year we kind of get a runaround and the same plan… regurgitated to us," she said.
"I think that people move into this community because of our small schools, because of the low student-to-teacher ratio, because when you walk into the school, you can almost recognize everybody by name," Hamill said. "I'm worried about what a closure would do to our community, what it would do to ― most importantly ― our children."
Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers education and the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than 17 years. Reach her at aoglesby@gannettnj.com or 732-557-5701.
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