Family Organic: 10 Fantastic Winter Playdate Ideas

Last week, I talked about ways to beat cabin fever when you are stuck at home. Today, I'm thinking about what to do to get out of the house in the winter. Here in New England, we're still a long way off from playing at the playground, but I'm not interested in sitting in my house for the next 3 months either. Here are some ways to get out and enjoy your winter fun. Some might be available near you, others might not, but hopefully we can all find something entertaining for ourselves and our little people on this list. It's always more fun to meet a friend and their kids too. Everyone has more fun that way!

1. Aquarium - We received a membership to the local aquarium as a birthday gift for the twins and it's been wonderful. Anytime we want to get out, we just head over there. It's stroller friendly for those with little ones. There is always something new and entertaining. The aquarium is educational, but more importantly, it's fun. Prices range widely, but if you plan to go multiple times, family membership is usually the best way to go.

2. Bounce - There are many small businesses that offer indoor play bounce houses now. You've probably been to them for a playdate or a birthday party. Usually they are pretty reasonably priced (and may offer military or bulk price discounts) and offer a great way for kids to have fun and get exercise during the cold winter months. Prices are generally between $5-$10 per child.

3. Mall Play area - Some malls now offer a play area for kids to blow off steam during shopping trips. They often have age restrictions, so you don't have too many 'big' kids in there knocking over the 6 and under crowd. These are great because they are FREE! Check out the malls near you to see if they have this option.

4. Indoor pool - If you are a member of a YMCA?or JCC, then you most likely have this option, some also allow you to pay a small fee to drop-in without joining. If not, check and see if your local parks and rec department has indoor swim times for families. It's lovely to get to play in the water and practice our swimming skills for summer. Prices vary, but keep in mind that the YMCA will work with you if your family can't afford a membership.

5. Public Library - Say it with me now: STORYTIME! I love storytime and so do my kids. Even without it though, the library is a great place to meet a friend and let the kids play. Most libraries have a children's department with books and toys geared to the younger crowd. Ours has a train set, a dollhouse, and a puppet show set. The kids have a blast playing there and there are comfy couches for the adults to relax on as well. If your local library doesn't offer a storytime, check Barnes and Noble's website, they offer storytimes in many of their locations as well. FREE!

6. Children's Museum - My kids always have a blast at Children's Museums. They are just the best for exploration and learning. We could spend our whole day there and still not get enough. Prices vary between $10 and $25 per person. Ask about military discounts (if you qualify) and check the website for specials and memberships.

7. A certain Mouse's House - This isn't my favorite place now, but when I was a kid, nothing beat good old Chuck E Cheese. If you are going, be sure to get some coupons ahead of time, you can usually find them online or in your local coupon inserts.

8. Science/Art Museum - You might not think an art or science museum is the best place to take little kids. However, if you check the websites of science and art museums close to you, you may see that they offer special programs for children of various ages. The science center near us even has a free day for families with multiples (twins, triplets, etc) - SCORE! Prices vary, check website for specials, discounts, and memberships.

9. Play Cafe - This may be my favorite one yet. Some genius entrepreneurs finally realized that what parents really want is a place that is safe and fun for kids to play and offers coffee, healthy snacks, and lunches for kids and adults. My kids and I are in love with Stay and Play near us and I bet there's a similar place near you. Between $5 and $10 per child (adults free), check website for specials and discounts.

10. Ice Skating - I haven't attempted this with the kids yet, mostly because I'm terrified that I will fall and take them out with me (I've never been accused of being coordinated). If you don't have your own skates, you'll need to rent them as well. Where I live, public skate and skate rental comes to $10 per person. You can also get a group discount if you schedule ahead of time, so get a group together and have a blast.

Source: http://familyorganic.blogspot.com/2013/02/10-fantastic-winter-playdate-ideas.html

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