Aaaah, it's finally the weekend! With so much to pack in during the week, the weekends are prime time to slow down, relax and spend some quality time with your family. However, as you'll know only too well, toddlers and preschoolers don't always see it that way. Luckily there are always things to do that don't require too much planning or expense to keep young ones entertained. We've taken a look at our newest location, San Mateo, to find you 7 great things to do with your preschooler this weekend.
1. Go For A Spin
Learning to ride a bike is always a huge milestone in the eyes of preschoolers. It's a great way to show them the benefits of watching and learning, and also a fantastic opportunity to get them out into the fresh air! Make the most of flat, smooth trails around you like the Coyote Point Recreation Area , or along the San Mateo to Foster City Shoreline.
2. Learn to Swim
Some kids will have started off their introduction to swimming at just a few months old, but if your kid isn't one of them, it's never too late to start! Swimming is a great sport to be part of at a young age, not to mention the lifelong benefits of knowing your way around the water. If you're not a great swimmer yourself, don't let that put you off, as you can get lessons for yourself as well as your preschooler at Kings Swim Academy in San Mateo..jpg?width=640&name=800px-Hibiscus_Sports_Complex_swimming_lessons_(7457239140).jpg)
3. Let off Steam at Safari Run
Sometimes it's good to let the kids run riot and let them burn off some of that energy. The Safari Run in San Mateo offers open play with slides, climbing frames and other fun equipment for kids to run around and play on while you watch (or join in if you feel left out!)
4. Take a Picnic to Parkside Aquatic Park
Something as simple as a trip to the park can become an exciting day out with the addition of a picnic! Parkside Aquatic Park in San Mateo is an ideal little spot, with plenty of room for playing sports or games.
5. Walk The Bay Trail
In the Bay Area we're so lucky to have such great walking opportunities along the Bay Trail. In the end, the plan is to have a trail spanning over 500 miles, connecting all nine counties and 47 cities. It's unlikely that you'll want to walk or cycle quite that far with your toddler on the weekend, but make the most of the chance to get out in the fresh air and point out local landmarks.
6. Get Active At The Junior Gym
We all know the benefits of having a good old run around, and with young kids it's no different. It's a great idea to get them associating exercise with fun, as it will encourage further activites as they grow up and increase their likelihood to be active. The Junior Gym in San Mateo allows kids to run around, make friends and let off steam in a fun environment.
photo:junior gym
7. Say Hello to the Wildlife at Curiodyessy
Curiodyessy museum at Coyote Point is a huge hit with young kids, and a must-see if you havent done so already. It offers close up encounters with real wildlife, and a hands on, interactive approach to learning. Exhibits include Perception and Reflection, Backyard Science, and the Nature of Patterns, and there's plenty to get them inspired and ready to learn more. Kids can be entertained by both the exhibits and the very popular Magic Mountain playground outside, so take a picnic along and make a real day of it as you sit outside and enjoy the view!
