Now that school is back in session our day to day life looks a LOT different. Usually my bigger kids sort of run the show and our two year old is just along for the ride. Well now the tables have turned and I've got way more one-on-one time with just the two year old. This isn't my first rodeo yet I've struggled to figure out what to do with him on his own!
Like a true millennial mom I turned to the Internet to ask for suggestions. Thanks, Internet Friends!
Without further ado, here are some of the best things to do in the area with little kids that were shared with Boise With Kids.
Go to the library!
I'm a huge fan of Boise's public libraries and think our local branches are just wonderful! Not only do they have a plethora of books for toddlers, they offer great activities and Storytimes as well. My personal favorite is the Library! at Cole and Ustick. I think they have a great selection of toys and ample space for kiddos to explore. On any given day, though, you can find a mid morning Storytime at one or two of the local branches (lots are listed on our events calendar). They have some specifically for babies, toddlers, families and one called Music and Movement that lots of moms recommended for toddlers. And don't forget to check out the other libraries across the Treasure Valley! The Eagle library seems to have a lot of cool events on their calendar and I've heard Storytime at the Victory branch and Garden City Library are really good!
Play at a park!
I literally cannot get over the amazing parks that we have available to us in the Treasure Valley. I've lived in lots of places and think that Boise's city parks are unrivaled. Next time you visit a new park, take a copy of our "Park Report Card" so that you can "grade" it and have a way of remembering which parks you've tried and liked and which ones weren't so great. If you're looking for a few toddler-friendly parks to try first, I highly recommend checking out this list by Jacque Felt, author of Levi and Elena’s Guide to Boise City Playgrounds. I cannot recommend this book enough! It's so well laid out and gives great, real life insight into what each park is really like. Also, Bowden Park seems to be a toddler favorite and was recommended by multiple moms when I asked!
Mommy & Me Classes!
Lots of people recommended various "Mommy & Me" type classes like BoiseBits Run or Yoga Club, swim lessons at the YMCA, gymnastics at Danik Gymnastics in Meridian, a class at The Little Gym in Eagle, or nature programs like EverWild and Wild Beginnings. Do you know of any others like these? I'd love to add more to our new Programs, Classes and Activities Guide!
Visit a museum!
I've said this before but I'll say it again - having a membership to some local kid-friendly spots is a game changer. Being able to come and go as you please can be so helpful when you "just need to get out of the house" or don't have too much time but still want to do something fun. Our family has a membership to the Children's Museum of Idaho (which my kids and I LOVE and never get sick of), the Idaho State Museum (which I assumed would be boring but have nothing but great things to say about) and Zoo Boise (which my animal loving boys always want to go to). Others recommended having memberships to the Discovery Center, the Aquarium and the Idaho Botanical Gardens.
Workout with Fit4Mom!
I love everything about Fit4Mom and am excited to get to more classes this Fall! If you haven't heard of it before, read THIS old post for a great intro from one of the instructors. Then come try out a class for free! I promise you I will be more awkward, breathing louder and sweating more than you so you don't need to be intimidated whatsoever. It's an amazing community of supportive and welcoming local moms and a great play date for your kiddo(s).
Adventure Outside!
With so much outdoor space in our "backyard" it'd be a shame not to mention outdoor adventure spots! The Greenbelt is such a fun option for walking, biking and exploring the Boise River. MK Nature Center is a great spot right off the Greenbelt just past Downtown/BSU. And don't forget the Foothills! Here are some great kid-friendly trails to start with that Boise Parks and Recreation recently posted on their Instagram: Hulls Pond Loop, Red Fox Trail/Owl's Roost, Camel's Back Reserve Trails, Crestline Trail, Toll Road Trail. Other popular trails/areas that I've had recommended to me are The Military Reserve, Elephant Rock Loop, Hyatt Hidden Lakes, Hull's Gulch, Harrison Hollows, and so many more I've forgotten to write down! Highly recommend checking out the website or app AllTrails or BoiseTrails to get some good insider info. Please send more suggestions as you find them!
Did we leave out some of your favorite things to do in the Treasure Valley with little kids? Drop your favorites in the comments and be sure to check the comments of our post over on Instagram for even more ideas!