The toys are “same old, same old” and you are still a few weeks away from playing at the park. Never fear! Check out this list from Springfield Moms Advisory Board member Lindsey Lanter with area indoor activities for you and your little one. Try a fresh approach to an old favorite or enjoy an experience for the first time.
Sports Adventures: Little ones will turn into avid sporting enthusiasts for a day with a trip to Scheels. Grab the stroller or one of their “shopping cars” and become your child’s tour guide. There is a language-rich experience to be had as you see and talk about so many different sports and the equipment required. Be sure to explore the giant saltwater aquarium and the upper-level display of nearly 300 “stuffed” animals. Meet a few former Presidents, pose with the big catch or a giant grizzly, and climb through their indoor playland. A few dollars will also get you a ride on their giant Ferris wheel or a cup of ice cream in the flavor of your choice!- Book it: The Lincoln Library downtown, as well as the Chatham and Rochester libraries, offer children’s areas and a schedule of different baby, toddler, and preschool story times. Bring home your newly checked-out picks and cozy up with blankets and snacks to read them. Another kid-lit idea: jump on over to the retail side and check out Barnes and Noble’s Wednesday story times that include a story and craft.
- Happy Shopping!: If you aren’t pressed for time, a trip to Target or the grocery store can be an engaging and interactive experience for you and your child. Let them be your guide if you have no specific goal, or give them your goal and let them hunt for the items on your list. Try playing “shape searchers” or do an alphabet hunt (Apples, Bananas, Carrots…). Most stores offer multiple-child shopping carts. In fact, you’ve probably seen us in one of them, strolling Target with the popcorn combo or Meijer with two ice cream cones. You’ll recognize them by their dripping faces and messy shirts, but me with that blissful look of a mom enjoying a rare, peaceful shopping experience.
- White Oaks Mall: Log some stroller-walking miles, observe and talk about the changes and renovations, and give your child some much-needed physical exertion as they climb and play on the playland in the Sears wing. Meet up with friends and stay for lunch!
- Play Date!: Call a fellow mom, pick a time that works for both families, choose a host, and you’ve got yourself a playdate! Just one morning out with a good friend can be refreshing and recharging. Your kids will enjoy someone else’s toys, or rediscovering their own with their friends, and you will enjoy adult conversation!
Submitted by Springfield Moms writer Lindsey Lanter. Lindsey is mom to Simon and Elliot.
