Winter is COMING.
Okay well it feels like its already here in NJ. And I am trying my best to figure out what exactly I can do with Lizzie this winter since the park and walks and our normal routine is about to end.
Here is a list of ideas (and specific locations if you are local) for activities for a one year old!
Library
The library is our go to. We go to the Princeton Public Library twice a week and then take a stroll over to the Princeton University kids library afterwards. If you live close to a university, see if they have a kids library available. We also love to explore libraries in the area including Hopewell and Langhorn. It can be a bit of a drive but worth it if they have toys, other kids and help Lizzie get her energy out.
Music Together / Little Rockers
I’m not going to lie, even though Lizzie loves dancing to Baby Shark, she did not love going to the music classes. We tried, but it didn’t work for us. But it may work for you. The two major programs that we have tried are Music Together and Little Rockers. Give it a try!
Gymnastics
Even though a one year old can’t technically do gymnastics, many gymnasiums have toddler time or an open gym where the kids can run around. Best part? They can jump in the ball pit and run around without getting hurt! If you are local to Princeton, NJ, Tumbles is where you’ll find us on a Monday.
Build Your Own Play Gym
Do you loathe indoor spaces for fear of germs? No problem – build your own indoor gym. We got Elizabeth this tunnel + ball pit for her birthday with these balls. Let me tell you – SHE LOVES IT – and so do all the kids that come over for play dates. Definitely worth the small splurge. And hey – if you really want to create a – AMERICA’S NINJA WARRIOR STYLE SPACE – check out this cool indoor child ladder.
Barnes + Nobles
Barnes and Nobles has quite an assortment of activities for kids AND it is all free AND it usually has a wide age gap. We haven’t tried it yet but we plan on it. And if all else fails, it is inside the mall so we can always run around and get some energy out there. Find your local B&N activities here.
Mommy + Me Yoga
This is basically one of my favorite activities to do with Lizzie. Momma gets some stretching in and Lizzie gets some energy out. If you are local to Princeton, our favorite studio for Mommy + Yoga is at Honor Yoga and taught by our friend Courtney Downey.
Mommy + Me Zumbini
Zumbini is designed for children 0-4 years old. I haven’t tried this yet but found this while doing some research and I am definitely going to give it a go. You can find a local gym here.
Toys that Burn Energy
Some of Lizzie’s favorite toys are brought out right when she catches her second wind and we are needing to burn some energy lol. She loves this push toy and this doggie that she rides on herself. I haven’t tried this one yet but I’m sure a 2 year old toddler could handle this bouncer (in a safe space of course).
Gymboree + MyGym
Sometimes good things cost money. I was iffy about joining a program at first because I am now staying at home and trying to be frugal but let me tell you – LIZZIE LOVES GYMBOREE. LOVES IT! And it’s safe space for her to run around without getting hurt. We had Lizzie’s birthday here and all of the kids ranging ages 6months to 5 years old had a blast. MyGym also has mommy and me workout classes so if that is your thing – go for it. If you are local, these are our favorite Gymboree (Princeton) and MyGym (Princeton) gyms.
Mall Activities
Our local mall has a ‘Rockin n Groovin’ morning of music once a month. Even though it isn’t that often, it is a good way to meet new friends and keep the activities fresh. If you are local, check out Marketfair events.
Playdates
Arrange a standing playdate with a friend or two and alternate. Hey if you are willing, take on for the team and let your friend drop off their child for an hour. So the two kiddos can play, momma can get work done and then the next week you can the option to get work done. It’s a win win!
Sensory Bins
At the beginning of every week create a new sensory bin. This blog has a ton of great ideas – also scroll pinterest for some home made fun. Alot of children’s museums + activity centers have these but atleast you don’t have to risk the germs by making them at home.
Aquarium’s, Zoo’s + Museum’s
I think this one TRULY depends on how interested your little one might be. Lizzie loves petting dogs but could care less about fish. (But who knows about baby shark?!). Our local aquarium has a kids zone so if your kiddo is interested, this might be a good day trip. This goes for zoo’s and local museum’s too. Some of these outside based adventures have indoor spaces that you can take the little ones.
Now let me know – what will you be doing with your little ones all winter?
xx E
