Bring Your Kids To The Library!
I moved here early this Fall and am lucky enough to be a stay at home mom to my two daughters, ages 3 and 1. As I sat home during the first few days, I thought to myself…what on earth am I going to do with these kids every day?! So I asked friends, checked the internet, and went to all the parks I could find. But, now it’s COLD OUTSIDE! AHHH. What now??!!
So my search started again. Do I sign them up for a gym class? Dance? Art? But if I do, what do I do with the other one?? I don’t have a job so I can’t afford all of these classes!
So I checked the library. What a fantastic resource it has become for me. I have gone to craft and storytime at the Island Heights branch; gym, music and storytime at the Manchester branch; and 1-2-3 Grow With Me, storytime and toddler time at the Toms River Branch. So, needless to say, the people who work at the library are getting used to seeing our faces a few times a week, and we’re meeting some great friends.
In addition to this, the playrooms are GREAT in their own ways. Island heights is very small – so if you are not in the mood to chase a toddler … but want him to be able to color or do puzzles, this is the place for you. If you want more open space, with every book or movie around, go to the Toms River branch. And I am very impressed with the Manchester branch. This playroom is pretty secluded and there is a small entryway – which means the kids can’t hide. In the playroom are tons of books, a play kitchen and a good amount of toys, as well as a lot of puzzles and games. Manchester and Toms River have computers with kids games as well. I am still planning on going to the Brick and Beachwood branches to see how they are.
Parking: Manchester is free; Toms River is $.25 per hour upstairs; Island Heights is free.
Check the website for the library and check all of the classes available, you’ll be surprised!
