The Zoo is the Best!

We love going to the Philadelphia Zoo. We are so lucky to have some place like this in our city. Its super pricey if you don't have the membership, so I suggest the investment. We have the deluxe family membership that includes the whole family, 2 guests and free admission to all the "extra" rides like the ponies, carousel, swan boats...

This May we have decided to try the Zoo playgroup. I have to say its one of those hidden gems I just recently found out about. My son is three and loved his first class. The second one he did not want to join in. I think he was having a bad day and this class if a "no mama" zone. They have different groups for different ages and the curriculum is amazing. The kids get to do art projects, take a zoofari, read stories and meet animals. All this in a 2 hour span! I am hoping that class #3 goes well. The are doing registration for summer camps now so I thought I would share.

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!

Rainy Day Fun (Olde City Style)

Today it was a little drizzly as we woke up. So we decided to try the Fireman's Hall Museum in Philadelphia. Located at 2ND and Race streets, their site is http://www.firemanshall.org/ There is no charge, but a donation is accepted. The lower level has antique firetrucks and displays with model firetrucks. There is also a 9/11 tribute with debris from the site. Its very somber to see all the pictures of the NYC firefighters that died that day. In comparison about as many Philadelphia firefighters have died in the line of duty in 300 years. On a lighter note the second floor has interactive exhibits to teach your child to dial 911. They can also try on fireman coats and boots. The second floor is set up like the second floor of a traditional firehouse. Children old and young will find something to capture their interest here. The space is equipped with restrooms (no changing tables) and an elevator. Is also stroller friendly. There is a gift shop selling Philadelphia Firefighter memorabilia and toys/gift items.

Located nearby are art galleries, coffee shoppes, deli's and book stores. Also located nearby for a great snack is Franklin Fountain Ice Cream http://www.franklinfountain.com/icecream.php

On a sunnier day head over to Franklin Square Park or Independence National Park which is also nearby.

Things to do with a Toddler in Philadelphia

A friend of mine wrote this great article! I helped with the research and that is what inspired me to start this blog. Here is the link:

http://www.helium.com/items/1577164-what-to-do-with-a-toddler-in-philadelphia

Enjoy and be sure to check out some of her other articles!