Cabin fever can definitely set in when you have a newborn. But eventually you are ready to venture out with your little one, and it helps to know which destinations are set up with your baby in mind. Dayton is filled with activities and locations that can be enjoyable for both you! Keep this list handy and take advantage of all our city has to offer its youngest residents.
YMCA of Greater Dayton
The YMCA is the perfect place to make health and wellness a priority for both you and your baby. Branches offer a variety of programs for children, including parent/baby swim classes, plus dance, art and music lessons. If you need some “me time,” the Y also offers free child watch services for members. Find branch and membership information at www.ymcaonline.org.
Five Rivers Metro Parks
Dayton is lucky to have access to many wonderful parks that are perfect for families. According to Joshua York, Education Coordinator of Five Rivers Metro Parks, “By getting babies outside, we’re teaching them that their climate fluctuates, thus raising kids that are better prepared for the cold, heat, rain, etc.” With its paved trail, Sugarcreek Metro Park is a great place to take baby for a stroll. Get more info at www.metroparks.org.
Liberty Center
Have you been to the new Liberty Center just south of Dayton? The Children’s Discovery Center there is dedicated specifically to children, and even babies can enjoy the interactive games and exhibits. Each Friday at 11:30 a.m., Children’s Story Time is offered with stories, songs and puppet shows. The program is free and open to the public. Find more info at www.liberty-center.com.
Music Together of South Dayton
The whole family can benefit from the interactive programs at Music Together, but especially baby. According to Center Director Heather Goertemiller, “During lap songs and body awareness activities, a parent’s touch can enhance their baby’s physical and neurological development, improve blood flow and circulation and promote longer and sounder sleep.” Learn more about the advantages of musical enrichment for your child at www.musictogetherofsouthdayton.com.
Run Around Fun Town
This is a great option to give your crawler a change of scenery. While it’s fun for older children too, your baby can enjoy the separate toddler area where he can roll and crawl to his heart’s content. Check out www.runaroundfuntown.com to learn more.
Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm
Your entire family is probably in need of some fresh air and Aullwood Audubon Center is a great place to find it! Push baby in the stroller along the paved path, or if you are feeling more adventurous, wear your baby and venture onto one of their many trails. There are many other events and activities to check out as well; visit http://web4.audubon.org/local/sanctuary/aullwood/ to get the scoop.
The Dayton Art Museum
You may be raising the next Picasso, so why not introduce your baby to beautiful works of art at a young age? The museum is stroller friendly with elevators available. After stimulating both you and your baby’s artistic creativity, stop into the Leo Bistro for lunch. If you have toddlers, check out the “Tiny Thursdays” program (babies are welcome to join too!) Get more info at www.daytonartinstitute.org.
National Museum of the US Air Force
There’s plenty of space for you and baby to wander and see spectacular sights at this museum. Admission and parking is free and you can enjoy the warm weather with lunch in an outdoor picnic area. Plan your visit at www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.
There’s no shortage of both indoor and outdoor fun for babies in Dayton! Pack up your tot and take advantage of all our area has to offer you and your little one.
