There comes a time when you need to find an activity for your toddler outside of the house but the weather won’t cooperate. You or your toddler is probably going stir crazy and bouncing off the walls at home. We have just hit the worst part of summer here in Dallas which makes playing outside during the day uncomfortable in the 100+ degree sun unless we are at a pool or water park. Below are some activity suggestions that we enjoy doing with our toddler when it is too hot or raining outside and we need to get out of the house.
Natatorium: A natatorium is an indoor swimming facility. The great thing about a natatorium is that it is climate controlled so you can swim year round no matter if it is scorching hot, freezing cold, or raining. We are lucky enough to one a few miles from the house and our child loves it. There is a small fee to use the facility, but it is worth it. Check out your city or surrounding city’s government website to find one as they tend to be run by the city.
Mall Play Area: Mall play areas are great. If you live in or close to a city with a few malls, chances are that at least one will have a play area. These play areas are usually furnished with foam protective things to play on, slide down, etc. This also gives your toddler a chance to interact with children they do not know. As with any high kid traffic attraction, make sure to wash your toddler’s hands afterwards to reduce the risk of them catching something.
Children’s Museum: If you have a museum / learning center / science place designed for kids in your area, they can be an excellent place to visit. Not only will you be in a comfortable surrounding, but your child might learn a little something as well.
Bounce Houses: Indoor and air conditioned bounce houses are becoming more and more popular. They are not just for birthday parties anymore. Check your local yellow pages to find one near you. You should call ahead to make sure they are letting anyone bounce during the time you want to go. If they are booked for a party, you might get turned away.
Grocery Shopping Derby: Combine you grocery shopping chores and your bored toddler together at the grocery store. Most grocery stores now have carts that have a built in play car or train on the front. Our toddler loves riding in the car, play beeping the horn, and eating the free samples.
McDonald’s Playland: McDonald’s Playlands are a good source of indoor entertainment for a toddler or child. They are becoming more and more complicated and up to date. They now even have a stand with video games at the one by our house. We get a milkshake for us and watch our toddler play.
There are many other great ideas for things to do indoors when you need to get out of the house. A little time on the internet can help uncover gems of activity places near you.
Other Suggested Reading:
Terrible Twos
The not so wonderful world of Terrible 2’s
Maximize Your Child’s Geek Potential
What your baby geek in training needs
