Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Fun Kids Activities in Central Houston

Here are some fun ideas of things to do with kids in Houston for FREE. These tips came from the West University MOPS group. Thank you for sharing your ideas!

"The Cookie Jar Bakery on Westheimer. Here is their website www.thecookiejarbakery.com/. Sadly, they have cut back on their hours and are no longer open on Sundays. This placed saved me during the summer months when it was too hot to do anything outside. They had a story time and then did an art project and decorated one cookie for free. They also had themed classes for $10 or $15. One was dinosaurs, another trains and back to school. Sophia really loved it and this place was very kid friendly. It had a train table and a children's table and chalk to keep the children entertained while you had your coffee. I just called and they said they no longer have the classes but if you have a small group of children they still do cookie decorating. You will just need to call ahead of time.

"Another free and fun activity that has not gone away is the Kroger here on Westpark and Buffalo Speedway. At any time you can get a free balloon in the floral dept. and a free cookie for your child at the bakery but on Saturdays from 3-5 there is a guy who comes in and plays music - right inside of the store next to the Starbucks - Sophia and I dance/watch and my husband shops. On Sundays - at the same time (I think, you might have to call and check to make sure) there is a clown who does balloon animals and face painting. All for free, although they do accept tips. It is not always the same clown so if you are thinking of hiring a clown for a birthday party this is a good way to see them work.

"Last free indoor activity I know of is the piano man at Nordstroms. Free balloon in the shoe department on the third floor and free music on the first floor next to the woman's shoe department. If he sees you have a child he will start playing children's music and you can stay as long as you like."

Thanks again for these great tips, especially during Spring Break and as summer approaches. I hope everyone has a family-filled, restful Easter holiday. Many blessings to you & yours.

Until the next nap time...

Easter Prep

Yesterday afternoon, we went to Northwest Mall for our annual photo with the Easter Bunny. No lines at all, but the least expensive photo package was $20 for four photos. At least that then enabled me to take photos with my own camera. Ta da!

Last night, we made Easter cookies (yep, that's on my diet!) and had a ball. We're really looking forward to the Easter break.

Enjoy your Easter holiday. We are all lucky indeed. Until the next nap time...