Are you looking for things to do?

Every summer break I get a glimpse of what it is like to be a Stay at Home Mom.

I have an absolute blast doing lots to keep Reagan busy and having fun!

I know once the babies are born we will be stuck at home for a while,  but I would still like to get Reagan out and about to do things.  Here is a list of ideas I have put together for any moms out there looking for new, fun things to do with their little ones!

(1)

Swim Classes

(2012)

We have done swim lessons through the city the last two summers.  It is seriously such a good deal- only like  $22 for 2 weeks! Check out your city's parks and rec website to see what is offered.  

We plan on signing Reagan up in the fall for sports through the city as well.  They offer tons of recreation classes such as art, dancing, and sports. 

(2)

Library Classes

(2012)

(2010)

Our city libraries have various classes each week specifically for toddlers.  The last few summers we have attended "Shake, Rattle, and Roll" classes and Reagan (and his baby cousin)  has loved them.  They are usually fast (30-45 min.) but the kids sing, dance, play instruments, etc. with other kids their age.  We have also done story times and registered for special classes when they appear on the website- like Mother Goose Visits, Puppet Shows, etc.  These classes are free and air conditioned!  We always  make a trip out of it- loading up on new library books, movies, etc. 

(3)

Splash Pads

(2012)

We love the splash pads here during the summer. 

They are a free and cool way to have fun.

In Arizona they are pretty much at every mall and park, so we are lucky! 

We have friends who made it their summer goal to hit up a new splash pad each week! So fun!

(4)

Mall Playgrounds

(2010)

I am not a huge fan of the mall playgrounds, especially during the summer.  (The parents who let their big kids run around wild make me crazy. They knock all the little guys over!) But anyways, it can be a cool alternative when it is hot out! It is a a free place to let your kids run around in an enclosed place.

(5)

Play-dates/Playgroups

(2010)

(2011)

I am lucky to have a couple different groups of friends who have little ones the same age as Reagan.  We try to get together about once a month to have the boys play, swim, etc. while the mommies all talk and catch up.  If you don't have a "built in" group, you can join various groups or build your own.  A friend of mine just recently invited me to a group of teacher/mommies who started a Facebook page where we ask questions and bounce ideas off one another.  We also are meeting tomorrow for a play-date. I met a really sweet mommy through Reagan's swim class this session and we plan on getting the boys together outside of swim.  I also have joined the local Mothers of Multiples Club and look forward to play-dates with these ladies once the twins arrive!

(6)

Pre-School/Mothers Day Out

During the school year Reagan goes to preschool 3 days a week and he loves it.

I love the structure, the friendships he makes, and how much he learns.  

If you don't have your child do preschool, you may want to look into a Mothers-Day-Out program offered at many churches. Just giving your little one time to be away from you, surrounded with kids his age, and with structure is a good thing! 

(7)

Museums

(2011)

Arizona has a couple of really great children museums.  We love meeting up with friends at these museums and exploring.  Check out Groupon deals and their Facebook pages for special prices and deal! Otherwise they can start to get $$. 

(8)

Store Visits

(ie. Home Depot, Michael's, Lakeshore Learning, Barnes and Noble)

(2010)

Many stores host great and free activities for kids.

Home Depot does Saturday kid workshops. 

Michael's does daily kid crafts.

Lakeshore Learning does Saturday kid crafts.

Barnes and Noble does weekly story time and crafts.

(9)

Movie Programs

Our local movie theater does a summer movie program for kids. It is such a great deal.  This summer Reagan and I got passes and we got 10 movies for less than $10 dollars.  They were older kid movies (but luckily ones we hadn't seen!) This year's line up included Horton Hears a Who, Puss in Boots, Happy Feet 2, Rio, etc.  All you have to do is pick a theater location and choose a day. You go to the same theater at the same day/time each week and you are surrounded by families.  Reagan has LOVED our movie dates! 

(10)

Gymboree / Little Gym Classes

I haven't signed up Reagan for any of these memberships yet because the prices can be so $$.  So the only time we have gone was using a guest pass of a friend.  Reagan had the best time but I just can't imagine paying that much right now!

Do you have any other suggestions to add to my list?  I would love to read your comments below!
Mommies are always looking for new and fun things to do with our little ones!
Thanks guys!