For me, growing up, play time just happened. I’d ask to go to a neighbor’s house and wala instant play time. Since becoming a mom however I have learned to navigate our complex modern play time aka the playdate. The playdate is a time that is organized usually by parents, for children to socialize in an unstructured setting. Although I was skeptical at first, I’ve come to understand the many benefits of playdates, especially in an over-scheduled and overprotective world. In our modern hustle and bustle and tech centered world we’ve left little time for unorganized play for children. This unorganized playtime is essential to social development and problem solving. When children play without adult intervention they learn to interact, communicate and compromise. All skills needed to navigate life. As parents we value and make time for the playdate, so much so that our 4 year old has learned how to plan his own playdates. The next step in our playdate journey, which I’m looking forward to most, is the drop off playdate! Advance warning to my kids BFF’s parents, they will be spending a lot of time with you. In the meantime, I’ll continue to have as much fun as I can by taking the kids to my favorite playdate destinations. Check out my cold weather top 5 list and get inspired to play.
- Museums
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- Open Play Space
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- Snow Fun
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- Public Libraries and Bookstores
- Dance Parties
Museums playdates are enjoyable for both parents and children of all ages. Some museums even have special playdate hours with added extras for curious friends. In New York City, we have plenty of accessible museums to choose. Our family’s favorite default is the American Museum of Natural History, it’s our top pick because of its location, large open spaces, the hands on discovery room and variety of exhibitions like gem stones, space and dinosaurs to please all little minds. However, our all-time favorite museum playdate has been at the Please, Play Touch Museum in Philadelphia which warrants a visit at some point in your child’s playdate career.
Open drop-in play spaces are indoor locations like children gyms, art studios and play houses that designate a time for members and non-members to enjoy the facilities at a low cost. These spaces are ideal for winter playdates as they are extremely kid-friendly. Our two favorite open play space in New York are Wiggles and Giggles Playhouse and the Art Farm in the City. Drop-in play spaces can be found in both small towns and large cities. In order to make these playdates work you will need to do some advance planning to schedule the playdate during drop-in times.
Children are always eager to get outdoors despite the cold for some snow exploration. For some, this can be inviting friends to a backyard snow extravaganza or for city dwellers utilizing a local park with open spaces or hills for sledding. Our kids love making snowmen and snow angels with their friends. Always remember to layer the kids and give them some waterproof coats, pants and gloves. Using handy snowball scoopers are also a fun addition to activities.
Public libraries and bookstores are the most underutilized play date locations. These spaces are easily accessible in any community. Most towns and cities have access to a public library or a bookstore and usually have a designated area for children to be themselves. Children sections allow for some low voice conversations and lots of exploration. I usually schedule playdates during story time and hang around after to explore more books together.
Family dance parties are the new craze in New York City and in many cities near you. Family Dance Parties are hosted at local venues and even feature live DJ’s. Some parties even have extra’s like costumes and lights. Dance parties are usually held on a Sunday afternoon and you pay for admissions. Baby Loves Disco holds monthly parties throughout the country mostly in large cities. Who is to say you can’t organize your own party with some of the bells and whistles at a family friendly establishment near you!
