I get a two-week Spring Break each March. Connecticut is rich in so many things - great parks and beaches, fantastic museums, great restaurants, and a rich history. Today, I am sharing a sampling of the things that Chuck and I did over our Spring Break. Everything listed is free or inexpensive to enjoy with your whole family!
Pump It Up
I am fortunate to live down the street from a Pump It Up! The first time I took Chuck, she was absolutely in awe of the giant inflatable slides, castles, and bounce houses. I always thought that Pump It Up was just for birthday parties, I was very pleased to learn that they have several Open Jump times a day. If you have a toddler, I highly recommend taking them during the day (aka "when the big kids are in school") Chuck can hold her own with the big kids jumping, but I just feel safer having her bounce with kids her own size. Pump It Up features weekly Glow Bounces, Craft Projects, Family Jumps, and Sensory Bounces. To get more information, check out their schedule here
New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show
I've been taking Chuck to the Orchid show for three years; it has become a bit of a tradition for us. The first year, I walked through the conservatory with Chuck snuggled up in her baby carrier (they don't allow strollers in the greenhouse). The second year, I chased my new walker through exhibit as she tortured the flowers. This year, Chuck walked through the Orchid Show at a reasonable pace, while admiring the "beautiful flowers" from a safe distance.
Earthplace, The Nature Discovery Center
Earthplace is located in Westport, Conn. The trails, grounds, and outdoor animal exhibits are open to the public; there is a small fee to enter the facility. I would say that if the weather is nice, there is enough to keep your child busy outside. Since it was raining the day we went, I decided to pay the fee and head inside for the Story and Animal Program.
Earthplace has large indoor room called Natureplace that is filled with all sorts of hands-on activities for the kids. It also has all kinds of spaces for the kids to run around and climb and explore the different ecosystems in Connecticut. This is where we gathered to listen to the story. The educators at Earthplace are always very engaging. Chuck loved meeting a lovely guinea pig.
Kidville
We got a Groupon to Kidville to try out a bunch of their classes. Chuck definitely got her fill during our staycation. We took a trip on the Rock n Roll Railroad and enjoyed climbing around their playspace. But, perhaps my most favorite class was Toddlers and Tutus. I'm not what you'd call a "girly girl". In fact, the only reason my daughter has a tutu is because she was given one as a Valentines Day gift. However; I absolutely loved taking her to her first ballet class. I loved watching her learn to walk on a balance beam, make her feet into sleepy bunnies (flex), and prance around on her tippy toes (releve). The class ended with an adorable tea party of apple juice and goldfish. Although her pinky wasn't up, I was just proud that she didn't spill the juice all over the dance floor.
The Granola Bar
After our ballet class, I decided to have lunch with my girl, so we headed to The Granola Bar in Westport. We've stopped by this spot to pick up some bars on the run, but this was our first time sitting down and eating. It was actually my first time taking Charley out to a "step above a diner" restaurant on my own. I mean, we were living dangerously - there were real napkins and plates. This could have been a disaster. The Granola Bar does have a children's menu, so I ordered Chuck a Nutbutter and Jelly, and myself a Granola Tasting. When our meal arrived, Chuck's sandwich was huge! Like bigger than her head huge. She happily munched on her sandwich, ate her small bowl of fruit, crunched on her sweet potato chips, and managed not to break anything. We even had a little chair dance party to "Dancing on the Ceiling".
Best Time Ever
The Best Time Ever is an arts and crafts studio located in Stamford, Conn. Unless otherwise noted, you can always pop in for "open studio" during the week. Each Tuesday, they have a Toddler Time class where you can "Make new friends, explore different art materials, and take home a new craft each week!". Since its Spring, this week's theme was wind. We made an adorable little pinwheel and decorated a real kite. The class was absolutely perfect for toddlers. Although Chuck was the youngest one there, every kid had a blast decorating their pinwheels and kites. After the class, we took our kite straight to the park to see if it would fly. Sadly, there was no wind, but Chuck enjoyed running around the park trying to get some air.
Other Adventures
Two weeks is a long time . . . .
Peabody Museum
The Peabody is a Connecticut Institution. Check out our adventures here. Make sure to check your local library to pick up free passes!
Aldrich Museum
We kicked off our break with a little paper making at the Aldrich. You can check out our Alrdich Adventures here. There is no cost of admission for teachers.
Stepping Stones
We are members of Stepping Stones, but this year we decided to check out the Pajama Storytime with Olivia. Chuck was absolutely in love! It was a great evening for the whole family!
Bayley Beach, Compo Beach, Calf Pasture: The great thing about Connecticut Beaches off season (other than the fact that they are empty) is that they are filled with shells and shells, more shells and rocks. Take a bucket, and get ready to explore!
Shake Shack
We LOVE Shake Shack! It's the perfect mix of really good food, and completely kid friendly. I try to get there on the early side to avoid the long lines.
Story Time @ The Library
Connecticut has GREAT public libraries, make sure to check out the calendar of events! We've done everything from yoga to scrapbooking. The Norwalk Public Library has a fun play kitchen and dress up clothes for kids to enjoy. They also offer a special family program every Friday morning. The Westport Public Library has a fantastic "toy library" of toys that can be checked out. When you have a two week vacation, this can be a real life saver!
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