I Need a New Routine with My 1 Year Old!!!

Hi C.,

I think we all go through a little routine rut every once in awhile. I don't know what you guys normally do, but if you need to get out, some fun indoor options are storytime (some local libraries have infant storytimes which is nice), or indoor playgounds, like the soft toddler playground at Northeast Mall or some others at churches. Also, if you know enough moms with kids around the same age you could switch off having playdates at your houses, or you could join a local mom's group.

I joined a playgroup using meetup.com and LOVE it. I went to one and didn't like it, so look around until you find a playgroup you love and I'm sure you will!

Hi C., A few ideas for you:

Take him to PetSmart to look at the birds and fish and watch the puppies get groomed. This is just as good as the zoo for a one year old. And the PetSmart people don't seem to mind. Sometimes they do pet adoptions and he can even touch a puppy or kitty.

I just heard that Hillside Church is starting up a new MOPS group, check out their website at www.yourhillside.com

McDonald's does small Fry Clubs. Check out your local McD's for days and times. We try not to eat there very much, but once in a while the kids like it. (I bring my own snacks in). Its a good way to get out and meet other moms too.

On Thursdays and Fridays, there's a church in Grapevine that has an indoor playland for $1. There's dress up, a bounce house, a climbing thing, blocks, lots of different play stations. Is called Paradise Pond. http://www.fbcgrapevine.com/templates/System/details.asp?...

Just some thoughts for you. Good luck!

I don't know your budget but if you are like the rest of us, money is tight so the places that cost to play can be expensive. We used to go to the mall and my kids would LOVE playing in the soft play area at the mall-if you go earlier in the day usually there aren't many, if any, big kids so the little ones have free run. Also, I used to wrap mine up really warm and we would still go outside and walk-did wonders for us all! :) We used to use Chuck E. Cheese as a last alternative, when it had rained for days or I just needed something different-you don't have to eat and if you go during the day on a weekday, it's not crowded at all. He could play in the little kids area and probably really enjoy it. Finally, if you aren't involved in story time at your library...do it! It's great for him and you will get some social interaction as well. HTH

Have you thought about joining MOMS Club International? YOu can Google it and find the appropriate chapter online. The other chapters are really good about redirecting you to the correct one if you inquire at an incorrect one though. This is a great way to meet some other Moms and kids your son's age. My daughter just turned 1 on Sunday and she is part of a playgroup and we also do free/inexpensive activities throughout the week with this group. Also you might look into Kindermusik. They have a weekly class available for about 45 minutes for your age child. My daughter has loved this too. Story times at the library are also a good outing for your kiddo. Good luck.

Check out the public library in your area. They have great board books to check out and once or twice a week story times. My son will be one on the 20th and he LOVES going to the library and story time. Also, have you considered taking him walking in the mall? Just something to do to get you out of the house.....

Good luck! :-)

I'm not sure where you live but I own Monkey Business Indoor Play & Party Center in Bedford. Your admission would be FREE since he's under 15 months!! It would give you a chance to socialize with other moms as well as give Haze a chance to interact with other kids. Check out our website (www.monkeybusinesstx.com) or give us a call at ###-###-#### if you'd like more info. Thanks