If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly trying to find fun activities for you and your toddler and are unsure what to do; then this blog post is for you.
I know how it feels like when it seems like you’ve hardly gone outside, other than the usual grocery haul, local park or Target run. And if you have little ones, it may seem tough to have to entertain them constantly. Cleaning, cooking, laundry and errands never stop. This is true whether you’re a working parent or a stay-at-home parent. You may think that fun outings with your toddler means having to splurge to make great memories. It’s not true though!
Becoming a stay-at-home mom for me was a struggle at first. Trying to plan my days and figure out what on earth I was going to do with my toddler would get overwhelming at times. Although we play a lot at home and went out for the occasional errand, we needed activities that would benefit the both of us. Socialization is so important for both parents and toddlers. And when it’s just the 2 of you for a majority of the day, it can get pretty isolating sometimes.
Finding ways to have fun, keep busy and make memories outside the home can actually be really easy. With these 7 ideas, you’re sure to find something that would be enjoyable for you and your little one. You’ll definitely get your much needed break from home and entertain your toddler with these simple activities that won’t break the bank.
1.Children’s Museums
Our city has a lovely children’s museum where my little one can play for hours indoors and out. They have so many fun activities for kids that are also educational. There’s a painting room, Lego room a kitchen and crafts area just to name a few. The indoor area is perfect for the cold winter months and hot valley summers. It’s spacious enough to let your little one roam around without much worry. Theres usually a section for the even younger ones as well. This is helpful when you have more than one and a bit of an age difference.
The enclosed outdoor area is just as nice and spacious. There’s an area to make music, a pond to fish in filled with magnetic fish, and a mini farmers market shop. They have a bike trail, a mini play slide and many more activities of pure fun for little ones. The spring and fall months are perfect for the outdoor section of our Museum. They even have a picnic area to sit in the shade and have snack or hydrate. There truly is something for everyone at these centers. Any place where my toddler can get her energy out and I can relaxingly stroll next to her is a yes in my book.
These places are great to bring your toddlers to. They will have hours of fun and in a safe environment. You can locate one near you with an easy online search for children’s interactive museums or discovery centers. There is typically a day charge or an annual charge. We choose the annual because it’s usually cheaper. And within a couple visits it’s essentially paid for itself. Our local Museum also offers a discounted rate for renewals as well. Ask your local center what kind of deals they have, or you can also search online for coupons. On days when we don’t have much scheduled I love bringing my toddler. She plays for hours, and we both get out of the house. Chances are you’ll be able to socialize with other parents doing just the same.
2. City Parks & Rec Classes
We love our local city parks and recreation programs. Every season they come out with a guide filled with classes for all ages. You just search for your local guide online and register. Once you are registered (which is typically free) you just add which classes you would like to attend and pay online. The toddler enrichment classes are our favorites, and I honestly wish I had learned about them sooner. The classes usually run monthly with one themed class a week, depending on what activities you pick.
The toddler enrichment classes are typically broken down by age groups and hold limited spaces so it can be enjoyed by everyone in a comfortable manner. Our city has a Messy Artists class where the children make crafts, color, paint and play. This one happens to be my daughter’s favorite. It truly is messy! I recommend dressing your child in clothing you wouldn’t mind if they made a mess in. The excitement they get when putting their masterpiece on the fridge is priceless!
The city offers a wide range of classes from story time, nature themed, dance, sports and many more. Classes may vary by city and what they choose to offer. Sometimes our city will offer classes on specific themes such as Bluey, Fairytale or Superhero classes. On holidays they like to have themed parties. For example, a spooky dress up bash for Halloween, an Easter bunny workshop, or a Santa workshop to name a few. These can usually be added on for purchase separately but check your local guide to be sure. These classes offer a wonderful way for toddlers to interact in a “classroom” or group setting. With one or two staff leaders teaching the class your toddler has the opportunity to learn patience, following directions and fun with others in their similar age group.
3. Farmers Markets
Local farmers markets are a great way to shop for healthy alternatives in a beautiful outdoor setting. My little one loves the outdoor walk, samples, and helping choose vegetables to purchase. We both get out of the house and enjoy the sun while picking up fresh seasonal fruit and veggies in the process. With a variety of vendors, you’re sure to find something enjoyable for both you and your toddler.
Sometimes, if not always there is a food truck or two lined up offering goods like cinnamon rolls or coffee for purchase to enjoy while strolling. Perfect for those early morning markets when you don’t want to rush breakfast before leaving the house. It’s also a nice little hack when you have little ones like mine who always need to keep their hands busy. At times there’s a booth with an artist painting on canvas, a group yoga class, or a little picnic area where people can sit and chat. A nice little walk around the market is a great way to get outdoors in a different setting and you don’t even have to purchase anything if you don’t want to.
Our local Farmers markets are usually on Saturdays with a starting time of 8am. Theres sometimes another that happens during the week as well. Check with your city to find your local Farmers market schedules. It’s a great way to get outdoors and support your local vendors in the process.
4. Parks & Playdates
Probably one of the most popular go-to activities with a toddler would be your local parks and playgrounds. Not only are they free, but there is also usually more than one in your city or town. Kids of all ages enjoy them (adults too), and they get their energy out in the process. I mean, who doesn’t love a good swing now and then. Its easily the most convenient way to keep your toddler occupied while taking in the vitamin D from the sun. Just pack some snacks and water for hydration and your good to go for hours of fun.
Playdates are another good way to not only get out of the house but to socialize for both parent and toddler (super important). And playdates at the park are even better. You’re in an environment where there are not too many dangers or distractions and both parent and toddler are having a good time. This can be used to your advantage for relaxing with a coffee or tea, making new friends or even incorporate a fitness aspect to this. For example, parents can take turns watching the little ones while the other does a lap around the park. Your kids are having fun and you’re getting in your steps for the day with an accountability partner. Park visits don’t have to mean sitting on the bench on your phone while your toddler plays. Be creative and enjoy the day together!
5. Beach, Mountains, and Lakes
Chances are you probably live near at least one of these. A day trip to the beach happens to be mine and my toddler’s favorite. We would probably go everyday if we could. It’s such a relaxing way to get outside and listen to the seagulls and waves crashing. Although my toddler doesn’t enjoy actually getting into the water, she could spend hours playing in the sand. If you don’t want to buy food at a local shop, pack a quick lunch and some easy snacks and don’t forget the water. If you don’t happen to live near a beach, a nearby lake would be just as amazing of an experience.
If you’re not a beach person and enjoy hiking instead maybe the mountains may be a better fit. Away from the busy noises of traffic and crowds, trails are a different kind of peaceful. Listening to the sounds of pure nature and breathing in the fresh air while getting some exercise is another great way to spend the day with your child.
These are just a few examples of the many ways we could enjoy the outdoors with our little ones. We can teach them to appreciate the beauty of nature at such a young age. And saving some money in the process doesn’t seem like a bad idea either. A quick online search to find a spot near you can help in planning your day. Be sure to take the appropriate safety measures wherever you may go and if unsure check online for these as well. Better to be over prepared than under.
6.Seasonal Activities: Pumpkin Patches, Fairs, Winter Wonderlands
Seasonal Activities are always so exciting! I think it’s safe to say almost everyone has a childhood memory of when the Fair came to town. The lights, scents and sounds are forever engrained in my memory. There are so many things to do and see at the fair. Mornings are typically best before the afternoon crowds come in. And if you want to save some cash, packing snacks or lunch is the way to go.
Pumkin Patches are a favorite fall activity for most. The corn mazes, letting your toddler pick out a pumpkin and the hayrides are fun activities for adults and children alike. It’s a fall staple in our town and a very popular location for those cute Instagram photos. We also love the winter wonderland which happens to be at the same location. Some cities have them in the fairgrounds and decorate it so beautifully. There are lights, Christmas music and hot chocolate carts. Some events are drive through and others are more of an interactive walkthrough. These are typically open in the evenings to enjoy the lights better but can vary by location. My toddler loves seeing the lights and decorations as well as hearing her favorite Christmas songs.
Some Cities and towns have fun parades during these seasons also. Check online with your local city page to find out when and where these events may be happening.
7.Zoo & Aquariums
I don’t think I’ve met a child who doesn’t like to go to the Zoo. Going to see your favorite animal is an amazing memory for them. Feeding the giraffes and seeing those huge animals in person is such an experience. Sometimes Zoo’s will even decorate for the holidays, which makes it even more fun to walk through. There’s live shows and picnic areas for when your little one gets tired of walking or wants a snack.
Aquariums hold the same amount of wonder for a little one. Through their eyes everything looks so amazing and there’s so much to learn on those trips as well. Some aquariums have interactive activities too like the sting ray area. They also offer live shows and educational areas as well as picnic areas to take breaks at.
Both of these can be easy day trips with a toddler. They are educational, at your own pace and exciting for little ones to experience. Check online for coupons, membership discounts and special events at your nearby Zoo or Aquarium. Sometimes a membership at one gets you a discount at the other just ask for the perks with a staff member when you sign up.
Be Creative & Be Present
Any of these places can be enjoyed with your toddler. It’s a nice way to get out of the house, away from screens and both you and your small one are having fun and making memories in the process. They also don’t have to be enjoyed alone. Invite a fellow parent, grandparent or relative who would also benefit from a day out as well. Search online for discounts, pack lunches and find other ways to save money if you’re on a budget. Be creative, enjoy the moments and be present. Your toddler will not only have a wonderful experience but also appreciate that you were present with them in making those memories!