Playing indoors has its benefits, even if you have just a couple of places to pick from that are free. Admittedly, I can never live in Seattle because it’s way too depressingly rainy and this mama is prone to getting “the bummies.”
Keeping Your Toddler Playing Helps With Sleep
Even if it’s not raining outside I love keeping my to toddler busy. Here are some reasons to keep
- Socialize your toddler! If he/she enjoys playing with other toddlers then it’s a perfect way to help them with social skills.
- If the weather is bad, it’s great to look at indoor activities that are free.
- Most local libraries should have a children’s section with free classes.
- Do you already belong to a gym and one that has day care? Then take advantage of this! It gives you a break while you exercise and encourages play time with others.
- We love the bookstore because it’s another free place. I know that Barnes and Noble has a kid’s section. They often have story time where a staff will read children’s books from various age ranges.
- Join a mommy group through meetup.com. They often have local chapters that help moms to feel they’re not alone. Mommy groups introduce more kids to your child and more opportunities for playing together.
- The more play dates you have access to, the more of a mommy community and resources you have at your disposal.
- Playing throughout the day helps your child to sleep better through the night.
- If your child is playing a ton throughout the day, they’re likely to nap better too.
Bonding With Your Child Through Play
Recognize that playing with your child helps you to stay engaged and allows for your kid to have a present parent. Plus, playing helps with bonding and it gives them the needed exercise they need. Toddlers have so much energy; I know my 19.5 month-old daughter has a ton of energy.
Parenting Memberships 3 Must Haves:
- YMCA (cost)
- Barnes and Noble (cost)
- Library (free)
Barnes and Noble is an optional choice, but if you enjoy reading like I do it’s worth it. You get tons of deals and this mama loves deals! But the YMCA, Barnes and Noble, and the Library are just 3 places you can take your child indoors when the weather is bad. I also enjoy taking my daughter to an indoor play park. It’s usually $10 on average for 2 hours and goes up in cost from there.
So, Happy Playing! Let Your Kids Be Kids!
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