5 Inexpensive Winter Activities For Your Toddlers And Preschoolers
Parents understand that as the Winter season approaches and the weather begins turning cold, in many regions of the U.S. its time to come up with alternative activities for kids aside from the standard outdoor selections. While some Winter toddler and preschooler activities can be weather permitting, our suggestions below are all indoor and offer moms a chance to have a fun afternoon with their kids while not breaking the bank in the process.
1) Duckpin Bowling or Bumper Bowling - Check with your local bowling alley and most will inform you of a 1/2 off day or $1/game special, usually midweek during the afternoon hours. Most bowling alleys are slow during the day and need customers thus offering deep discounts to take advantage of. Try to get them to include free shoe rental as part of the deal as most will do so. Even toddlers and preschoolers can participate in Duckpin or Bumper Bowling and have a blast.
2) Day at the Library - How quickly moms forget how much fun kids have at the library. Most public libraries have library storytimes and toddler activitieson a weekly basis in the Fall. Even if there's not a storytime or event going on, kids love libraries. Usually loaded with comfy beanbag chairs and puzzles for the youngsters, these types of preschoolers activities usually are a winner and best of all free.
3) Kids Movie Days - Unbeknownst to many moms, some local movie theaters have a day of the week where they offer cheap movies for moms with toddlers and young children only. Usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday during off peak hours, theaters offer kid themed movie offerings that allow kids to be kids. No worries about being too loud or sitting still. If your child truly wants to watch the movie, this might not be the choice for you! Usually a nice reprieve for moms but bring your own food as they'll get you on the full priced popcorn and drinks.
4) Attend a Local Hockey Game - If there's a local hockey rink in your area, guaranteed there are many hockey games going on throughout the day and night. If your child enjoys sports or just watching other little ones, they'll love watching other kids playing hockey. Whether its a high school match or just a scrimmage or tot league, its usually free or minimal in cost. These rinks tend to be very loud and echo filled so kids noise is easily drowned out. Don't worry about paying $7 for a drink or $10 for nachos in these establishments either.
5) Arts and Crafts - Call up a local arts and crafts store and ask if they have any upcoming demonstrations or 'how to' classes directed towards kids. Usually these sessions are meant to drum up future business and draw in moms to purchase supplies and thus are free or minimal cost. Sometimes you'll have to pay for the supplies used during the class so make sure to choose wisely but it usually ends up in an enjoyable crafts for kids adventure.
Have a wonderful Winter 2010!
About the Author:
Dana Roth is Managing Director of TotActivities.com, launched in 2010 to help moms with young children find upcoming local toddler activities and activities for kids.
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