Do you remember how easy it used to be to get out of the house before you had a baby in tow? You needed to grab a gallon of milk at the grocery store . . . easy peasy – in and out.
Now it seems like a monumental task just to get out of the house to run the tiniest errand. Even if you do try to get out where would you even go that’s baby friendly?
My little girl arrived in the dead of winter and for months I was cooped up inside going stir crazy. I wasn’t brave enough to leave the house alone for fear of having a fussy baby. Also, not wanting to aimlessly wander around a store and spend more money, just for the sake of getting out. For these reasons, I didn’t go out at all.
When I couldn’t bear to be at home another day, I found a few local library events that got us out of the house without any extra pressure. These events immediately interested me because they specifically mentioned welcoming newborns. If you’re in need of an excuse to get out, here are some babies/toddler events going on locally this season! Or if you’re not ready to get out yet, check out this article on Baby’s Favorite Toys, so you can stay home and play!
Baby & Toddler Story Time at Cedar Rapids Library
Wednesdays 9:30 – 10:30 AM (Sept 7 – Nov 16)
As described on the library’s Facebook event: “This 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds is followed by a 45-minute playtime. This program helps strengthen babies’ and toddlers’ foundation for literacy with rhymes, rhythm, repetition, story, and movement.”
Zumbini at Cedar Rapids Ladd Library
Every Other Thursday 10:00 – 10:30 AM (Sept 8 – Nov 17)
As described on the library’s website Zumbini is “Created by Zumba and BabyFirst for kids ages 0-4, the Zumbini program combines music, dance, and educational tools for 30 minutes of can’t-stop, won’t-stop bonding, learning, and fun!”
Babygarten at Ely Public Library
Mondays 9:00 – 9:45 AM (Every Week)
According to the library’s Facebook page, “Babygarten is an educational curriculum for babies featuring songs, movement, literacy tips, and free play. Recommended for children under 3 years of age.” This program runs nearly every Monday of the year and is just a short drive from Cedar Rapids/Hwy 30. When I attended, I was able to chat with moms while the babies played!
Tuesday Tales at Hiawatha Public Library
Tuesdays 10:00 – 10:30 AM (Now – October 18)
According to the library’s website, the librarian “welcomes kids and their caregivers as she shares stories, songs, and fingerplays.” The website shows the program is for children 0-5. However, I found this program to be more geared towards toddlers that can move on their own.
Baby & Me at Mercy Health Plaza
The Baby and Me event highlighted in the Mercy E-touch newsletter is described as “Bring your baby with for movement for mom and a massage for baby! Baby + Me will cover postpartum yoga moves and a quick massage for your little one.” There are currently no Baby and Me classes scheduled, but keep an eye out on their website for future paid events!
Whether you just need a change of scenery or you’re craving some adult interaction, these are great events to get you out of the house. As a bonus, these are safe places where no one will stare if your baby gets fussy. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for future events like this too, and maybe I’ll see you there!
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