Filling the Gap

The new school year has begun and for those of us with active school age children that can mean a flurry of activities--PTA, classroom events, and extracurricular pursuits. I find that the biggest challenge has been trying to find activities to "Fill the Gap" between when school gets out and when extracurricular activities begin (karate, music, dance, football, etc).  I figured that I'm not alone.  It can be a struggle to think of something to do to kill time for only an hour or two. 

Here are some ideas to consider:

*Buy an annual membership to a local attraction.   Many places are open thru 5 pm and if you have an annual membership you could stop in every afternoon and it really pays itself off quickly.  Find a place that's indoor and you never have to worry about heat or afternoon showers.  Ideas: Gardens, indoor play facilities, children's museums etc.

*Stop by a nearby library.  Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties all have wonderful libraries.  You can spend an hour just coloring, reading or using the computers.  Many cities also maintain their own individual collections as well so be sure to check out your city.   Some have wonderful, short, programs safter school to participate in as well.

*Shady playgrounds or Indoor Fast Food places.  There are several beautiful playgrounds (check out our parks area) that aren't too hot in the middle of the day.  The kids can blow off some steam, grab some water and get back on the road to classes.  Places like Chik-Fil-A, Mc Donalds and  Burger King have some very nice indoor play areas.  If you are not a fan of the cuisines there you can pack your own snacks or purchase one of the more nutritious options as a quick snack off the menu.

*Store play.  If you are comfortable with this, it can be a free and fast option.  I know of many parents that do this on a regular basis.  Visit Target, Walmart, Barnes and Nobles and just let the kids play with toys on the shelf.  If you and the children can resist buying things--stick to the ground rules-- it can be an enjoyable afternoon stop.  Kids can even get a free cookie out of it ;).

Good luck  and fill your gap with some neat bonding activities with the kids!

  fast food places