10 Fun Mommy and Me Activities to Explore

One of the joys of raising a baby or toddler is having a ready-made companion for fun! From playful tumbles to creative art projects, there are countless activities to enjoy together. With a bit of planning, you can even incorporate fitness into your bonding time.

While you can organize activities independently to connect with your child, many communities provide structured "mommy and me" playgroups and classes if you prefer guidance. Start your search at local libraries, gyms, or zoos, or check bulletin boards at pediatrician offices and other spots frequented by new parents. Online resources are also helpful. Most programs run in sessions, but drop-in classes are available for those who prefer flexibility. Before joining, inquire about age restrictions and other details.

No matter which activity you select, the advantages far surpass the effort of preparing your child—bathing, dressing, feeding, and ensuring timely arrival. Not only will you strengthen your bond (beyond the late-night feedings), but you’ll also connect with other new mothers. Additionally, gaining insights about preschools or sleep techniques from friends with firsthand experience is invaluable.

10: Stroller Fitness

Exercising with your baby offers both emotional and physical benefits. With stroller fitness, you can skip the gym membership, specialized gear, or childcare. These workouts involve securing your child in a jogging stroller while you engage in a self-powered routine that blends walking, flexibility exercises, and strength training.

Search for programs like Strollercize, Stroller Strides, Baby Boot Camp, Stroller Fit, or other local initiatives tailored for new mothers. These programs focus on calorie-burning exercises that strengthen and tone core muscles, often including strength training elements like lunges or push-ups. Sessions typically last around an hour and are held outdoors, though some may move indoors during extreme weather conditions.

While pushing a stroller provides an excellent workout, there’s no need to worry about your baby getting bored. Most stroller fitness classes include fun songs and games to keep your little one engaged. Additionally, your child learns a valuable lesson: fitness is an essential part of daily life.

9: Guppy Training

Enrolling in a swim class not only helps you burn calories but also benefits your baby. Essential water skills could one day be life-saving. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that drowning is the top cause of accidental death for children aged 5 and under. Introducing your little one to the water provides more than just a fun energy outlet.

Most "mommy and me" swim programs are structured in eight-week sessions, requiring you to join your child and an instructor in the water. Infants as young as 8 weeks can engage in water activities, while toddlers close to 2 years old can begin learning to swim with your assistance. Remarkably, some children master swimming before they can walk.

Splashing around with your child fosters face-to-face and skin-to-skin interaction, strengthening your bond and creating a positive link between exercise and enjoyment.

8: Music Exploration

You’re well aware of your baby’s love for music, having sung lullabies and playful tunes since birth. The impact of music on a child’s brain is remarkable, aiding in the formation of new neural connections crucial for skills like reading and solving math problems.

Almost every community offers music exploration classes for parents and children to enjoy together. These classes are often tailored to specific age groups, such as 6 to 18 months or 18 months to 2 years. Participants use simple instruments to create sounds, learn basic rhythms, and sing along to tunes. Activities also include movement, like marching or dancing to the beat. Programs like Kindermusik, Music Together, or local music store offerings all share a common goal: fostering musical collaboration between parents and children, both in class and at home.

7: Tea with Me

A tea party for two (or more) is a delightful "mommy and me" activity that creates lasting memories. It’s also an enjoyable way to teach proper table manners in a fun and engaging setting.

Hosting a tea party at home is a delightful idea. If you lack a tea set, affordable options are available at secondhand stores. Essential items include tea, cream, and sugar, with lemonade as a kid-friendly alternative. Serve petite sandwiches on a tiered tray or pair scones with fruit and whipped cream for a sweet touch. Don’t forget to include your child’s favorite stuffed animals for a charming gathering.

For a child-friendly high tea experience, consider visiting a local tea room. Options range from renowned spots like New York City’s The Russian Tea Room to lesser-known gems like The Dunbar Tea Shop in Sandwich, Mass. Use resources like TeaMap.com to locate a tea room near you.

6: Tumble Time

Moms seeking a peaceful moment with a high-calorie drink at a coffee shop understand the need for a break. Extend the same joy to your child by enjoying "mommy and me" time at a child-safe gym. Explore family activities at local YWCA, YMCA, or gymnastics centers, or join a Gymboree Play & Learn class. These sessions encourage children to explore movement while introducing basic tumbling or gymnastics skills.

Play-based activities provide more than just cardiovascular benefits. They stimulate the senses, enhance problem-solving skills, and boost self-esteem. Additionally, active play helps energetic babies and toddlers sleep better after expending their energy. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

5: Artistic Adventures

Pablo Picasso once said, "Every child is an artist." Parents with refrigerator doors adorned with colorful artwork can attest to this. Encourage your child’s creativity by providing tools like finger paints, crayons, and paper. Additionally, explore parent-child art classes at local art museums or libraries to further nurture their artistic talents.

The focus should be on the creative process rather than the final product. However, the benefits are remarkable, including enhanced self-esteem, problem-solving, and social skills. Complement these classes with a visit to a local art museum. Many museums, like the Art Institute of Chicago, feature interactive exhibits for children. The Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha, Neb., even addresses common questions like, "Why are there naked people in art?" by providing resources for family discussions.

4: Zoo for Two

The zoo is a beloved destination for all ages. Spend quality time with your child observing animals or participate in structured classes tailored for toddlers and parents. These sessions often include guided tours, animal encounters, and interactive activities, typically themed and lasting an hour or two. Membership often reduces costs.

A zoo visit offers more than just animal sightings; it can spark days of educational fun. Explore resources from the Smithsonian before your trip, featuring species facts, photo galleries, and games. Let your child pick an animal to focus on during the visit, enhancing their engagement and learning.

3: Kids in the Kitchen

Many children are eager to assist in the kitchen, so seize the opportunity. Equip your little one with a mini chef hat and apron to set the stage. Let them handle simple tasks like assembling sandwiches or buttering toast, perhaps sprinkled with cinnamon sugar for added excitement. Gradually, they can progress to mixing muffin or quick bread batter. Tasks like shucking corn or snapping green beans also build motor skills. Cooking together encourages kids to try new foods and fosters healthier eating habits compared to fast food.

Kitchen activities can double as playtime for young children. They enjoy "washing" plastic cups or playing with soapy water in the sink. Incorporating a measuring cup can even introduce basic math concepts in a fun way.

2: Between the Lines

Babies and toddlers are naturally drawn to books, so leverage this interest. Attend story time at your local library or bookstore. Some storytellers use puppets or props to make the experience more engaging, so try multiple sessions to find the best fit. Bring along crayons and paper to keep your child occupied while they listen. The goal is to foster a love for books and reading environments.

Arrive early to avoid rushing and give your child time to settle in before story time begins. This also allows you to browse and select additional books to enjoy together later.

1: Craft Creations

Crafting engages children while developing fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. It’s also a great way to introduce early literacy and math concepts. According to the Craft & Hobby Association, over half of U.S. households participated in craft projects in 2009, highlighting its popularity and benefits.

For those interested in joining a "mommy and me" craft group, explore options at your local YWCA, community center, or craft store. Retailers like Michaels and Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores often offer workshops and classes tailored for parents and children. Whether your child loves beadwork, clay modeling, or yarn crafts, there’s a shared activity to enjoy. The essence of "mommy and me" programs is bonding through creativity.