Keeping Cool this Summer

I am on a mission to keep cool this summer with my 3 year old son. Since his energy level makes it impossible to stay inside sipping margaritas...we are in search of water!

First find: Squirt fountain at Headhouse Square (on 2nd, off Lombard)-This used to be a sunken area for teenagers to skateboard and hang out. It is now renovated into a cute little squirt fountain with benches around it. There are several "squirts" at different intervals surrounded by safe, rubberized ground material.
Pros: Small, Unknown, Clean
Cons: Surrounded by traffic, South St. bar scene.

Next Tip: Herron Sprayground (on Reed and 2nd Sts.)-I understand it to be part playground/part spray area. Will update when we get there!

Philly Mom's Meet-ups

Since we are now settling in to our new home in Olde Kensington, I'm starting to find all kinds of new things to do in the city. Right now I am setting up a Northern Liberties Mom's Meet-up Group to meet new moms in the area and plan some really cool stuff to do. Check it out and join if you would like to participate in some kid-friendly meet-ups.

http://playgroup.meetup.com/1997/

IKEA Kids Special

We love going to Ikea on Delaware Ave on rainy days. First they provide a small lot to the side with "Family parking". Their restrooms are very clean and they also provide "Family Room's" with low sinks, toilets, changing tables and rocking chairs. There are diapers available if you forgot. The place is huge so you can walk around and shop while your kids get exhausted.

As you enter, they have a place that you can leave older toddlers/kids (37-54" and Potty trained) with coloring and a ball pit and more. It is supervised and gives you a chance to shop on your own. They also have some of the most reasonable toys around. We've bought "Thomas-like" tracks which work great. I drool over their play tents, art easels and more.

One of the best places in the city for a "kid friendly" lunch. Prices are amazing for both adult and kids meals (Starting at $4.99 and$ .99 repectively). Plan carefully and you can have a pretty healthy lunch/dinner for a great price. What I love the most is that they have plastic plates, cups and servingware that the kids won't break. Then you can sit them down at a table just their size where they can watch cartoons while they eat. Surrounding the kid eating area are tables for parents to eat in relative peace. After you've done your shopping you can reward your kids good behavior with $1 frozen yogurts.

FYI-From 10/19/2009 to 10-25/2009 they are offering free kids meals with the purchase of adult meals. Can't beat that!