Many working parents rush home from work every day, refuse to check email until after bedtime and spend every waking weekend moment with their kids but still have a vague sense of guilt about not getting enough quality time with the little ones. Here are three activities for parents and the 1 to 3 year old set that provide an opportunity to bond, learn and have some fun. Plus, there's nothing like a formally scheduled appointment with a preschooler to help with declining those last minute requests to stay late or work on weekends. All of these options are offered on both nights and weekends to accommodate the working parent's schedule.
1) Parent and Child Swimming Lessons: No, it's not necessary to begin the next Michael Phelp's training right now but splashing, floating and blowing bubbles are great ways to spend time together and allow a toddler or preschooler to get used to the water in a totally non-threatening way. All of the local community centers offer classes and most are available to both members and non-members.
2) Zoo Classes: Any opportunity to talk about, read about and sing about zoo animals is always a big hit for anyone under 5, but the chance to actually touch one is almost more excitement than most can imagine. 'Twos and Friends' and 'Zoo Kids' classes are offered year round at the Columbus Zoo and are the one set of classes where even parents will walk away having learned something they didn't know before.
3) Tumbling Tots: Kids love run, jump and roll and what could be better than getting to do so with Mom or Dad? Giving families a chance to socialize, burn off some extra energy and highlight the importance of an active lifestyle makes tumbling classes the trifecta of shared activities no matter what the weather.
Regular dates to play and learn with a parent give kids an enjoyable activity and a special block of time just for them and Mom or Dad. And the commitment to a weekly connection between parent and child goes a long way toward letting working parents give themselves a break from unnecessary guilt.
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