Best Stuff For Toddlers
The Library
New York Public Library
Depending on the branch, your public library can be a great source of entertainment with your toddler. Many branches organize age-appropriate events for children including toddler times and in some cases, they may even station a play corner to be utilized for both reading and interacting with other visiting children. The great thing about this option, is that its free and convenient. For a list of events, see the system's website.
Local Bookstores
Barnes & Noble Booksellers Court Street
www.barnesandnoble.com
106 Court St.
Brooklyn NY
(718) 246.4996
Some bookstores coordinate book readings and arts and crafts sessions. Another great reason to visit is the well stocked children's sections. Again, it is a pick of mines because it is affordable (if not free!) and convenient. My local Barnes & Nobles is located on Court Street in Brooklyn and has a fabulous, beautifully decorated children's section conveniently located near the bathroom.
Indoor Playhouses
City Treehouse
citytreehouse.com
129 W 20th St.
New York, NY 10011
(212) 255-2050
If you are looking for an environment open to serious play, indoor playgrounds may be the way to go. Some require memberships while others are open to drop ins. City Treehouse is a top pick at CBS New York. We have visited and our kids were enchanted by the indoor treehouse and the water play. As parents, we were also impressed by the cleanliness of the space. They accept reservations and request that you bring clean water shoes and a change of clothes.
Your Neighborhood Store
IKEA Brooklyn
www.ikea.com/us/en/store/brooklyn
1 Beard Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
(718) 246-4532
FAO Schwartz
www.fao.com
767 5th Ave.
New York NY 10153
(212) 644-9400
Still Hip
www.stillhipbrooklyn.com
283 Grand Ave.
Brooklyn NY 11238
(718) 398-0008
You would be surprised at what activities you can dream up at your neighborhood store. FAO Schwartz has story time events scheduled daily for toddlers. IKEA (yes, IKEA) Brooklyn sports a romping room for kids and their cafeteria provides some serious eats for you and your family. Even smaller shops, especially in the outer boroughs like Brooklyn, are great hang out places. For example, Still Hip is a maternity/baby consignment shop that hosts a slew of incredible free and low cost events from educating moms-to-be on birthing options, to providing musical, arts and crafts and mommy and me classes.
The trick is to think outside of the box. Have fun!
Olivia Johnson-Coleman is a blogger with Mom in the City.