So... it's *still* cold and you and your pride and joy have already had Covid and you're ready to socialize again but would love someone else to handle the details.
You need a preschool program.
When I became a full-time stay-at-home mom I knew I wanted to be in charge of our day, and I even had a little preschool curriculum in mind for teaching school readiness, but there were times I needed something to go to where I didn't have to think or plan other than just show up. Oh, and I wanted to talk to other grownups.
(P.S. at first I thought this made me a bad mom somehow, but then I realized it's NORMAL. So there's that).
Local nonprofits and organizations are all too-ready to help moms and dads get some education and socialization with their babes on this winter. The good news is there's many at different times and locations, so chances are good you'll find one that works with your little one's nap time. Also, take note! I've listed a program for every organization that offers, but most offer multi-age programs, too. Let this be your introduction to all they offer! (Links are in the highlighted listings).
1. Toddler Tuesdays at Sam Davis Home
Held the last Tuesday of each month from 10am-11am, these one-hour programs are built around a theme that usually includes a read-aloud book, a craft and some hands-on learning. Admission is $5 for kiddos (adults are free) and includes access to the wonderful ramble-worthy historic property.
This is school-readiness at its best! On select Mondays, kids ages 1 and older can come with caregivers to hear a book, move and sing, and get their hands on scientific learning. Admission is $4 per person (grownups are free). Mondays aren't good? Be sure to take advantage of art projects with the Artist in Residence program every Thursday morning at 10:30, or catch Mind-Blowing Matiness at 10am and 2pm Wednesday-Saturday.
3. Toddler Adventures at Cannonsburgh Pioner Village
These monthly activity days for littles and their caregivers are an awesome excuse to peruse this local history jewel, get outside, and learn together with crafts and hands-on experiences. Cost is $3 a person.
4. Wild Things at Barfield Wilderness Station
A staple for many families, this great weekly program introduces preschool children to outdoor concepts and creatures, complete with a book and craft. Weather permitting, groups will take small hikes on the nearby trails, visit the education animals, and learn about the world outside. Cost is $3 per child.
Paint! Color! Draw! Ages 2-6 will have a blast at this program that covers different themes from authors to biology to zoology. Look for this fun program every Thursday form 1-2 p.m. Cost is $2 per child.
6. Books and Babies at LaVergne Public Library
A read aloud program is always fun, especially when it's babies! Bring your tiny tot to LaVergne Public Library on Thursday mornings at 10am to roll around on a play mat, listen to fun stories with awesome staff,and play. Preschoolers will love Once Upon a Storytime with crafts and puppets on Wednesdays at 10am. Mornings too tough? Join the Jammies and Stories family reaing program on Thursday evenings for music, dancing, and crafts before bed time! Unless specially noted, these programs are FREE.
Sing, clap, dance and read through the alphabet,numbers, days of the week and more at this weekly themed staple at Linebaugh Library. Kids will learn their letters, chat about different concepts in stories, and make friends in this easy, laid-back program held Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 10am. Check out their calendar for more storytimes at library branches throughout the week. These programs (unless otherwise notes) are FREE.
Know of another great preschool program that moms and dads need to know about? Share in the comments below!
