Several weeks without pre-school for my preschooler have lead me to explore some new activities. I thought I’d pull together a short list of things you might do if you find yourself without an outing for the day.
- Open Gym time at Head Over Heels in Emeryville. Kids are invited to use any of the equipment at their own pace for as long as they want. Kids under three need a parent to join them on the floor. Bigger kids can go out there on their own if they want. Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday 12 to 2 pm; Wednesday 1 to 3 pm; Friday 2 to 3.30 pm. Starts up again the second week of September. Best for ages 2+
Cost: $10, no membership required. - Rockin’ Kids Singalong at La Pena. On Friday mornings at 10.30, ex-punk rocker turned mom Stephanie Pepitone plays kid-friendly songs with a little extra noise. Kids can join her on the stage, stare off into space, or grab one of the instruments or scarves she provides. Best for ages 1-4.
Cost: $10 - Berkeley’s Wee Play drop-in play sessions for ages 1-4. Beginning September 12, you can find toddler playthings set up for kids and their caregivers at two Berkeley park recreation centers: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at Frances Albrier Hall (aka San Pablo Park) and Tuesdays and Thursdays at James Kenney Gym (nearish Berkeley’s Fourth Street shopping area.) At both locations the drop-in sessions run from 9.30 to 11 am.
- Pop-in playtime at Pump It Up. No birthday party invite necessary. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10.30 to 11.30, 2-6 year olds can come jump and play freely on the equipment. Bring socks!
Cost: $8 per child. Sibs under two are free. - Oakland Kindergym playdates at Temple Beth Abraham. (Open to families of all faiths. Or no faith.) Classes are separated by todder and preschooler and the schedule is too complicated to summarize here. Click through to check dates and times. The teacher has a great reputation for fun, age-appropriate play.
Cost: $10 for a preview class.
photo: Stephanie Pepitone
