Top 8 for a kids play date

Everyone needs a top 10 list for their blog. I think it's a blogging rule or something. I've never been one to follow the crowd so I'm doing a top 8 list instead. So without further ado, here is my top 8 list of things that I think are the best things for younger (think under age 6 or so) kids in Salem Oregon...in no particular order.

8. A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village. We locals call this the Gilbert House. They changed the name to Discovery Village a few years ago, but old names die hard. With the infamous "bubble room" this is a great place for kids. Trying to find something to keep 3 year olds occupied during our rainy months can be hard. It runs around $50 for a one year membership and we were members for several years when our children were small. That $50 will also get you into OMSI in Portland for free. Seriously, $50 for some sanity during winter. It's a good deal.

7. Tot Indoor Parks. When I first moved to Salem, Oregon there were, and still are, several tot parks that were located in churches. These indoor gyms were a lifesaver in terms of giving kids a great place to run around and play during the rainy months. I was surprised at how much socializing I got to do as a parent too. It was so nice to let my little people play and talk with big people. These operate as co-ops, so parents take turns setting up and cleaning up the gyms. It used to be around $30 for a 9 month membership. There are several around the city.

6. Kroc center. This is just an incredible donation by the Krocs to the city of Salem. Their water park is a great time for kids to just splash and have a good time.

5. Athletic Edge Saturday gym time-while not meant for infant or toddlers, Athletic Edge is a local gymnastics center. Now even if your kids aren't interested in gymnastics, they have open Saturday gym. This is supervised by you, for your younger kids, so, please supervise them. The kids can jump on the trampolines, and more importantly head into the foam pits. This was a Saturday regular for my kids. I dare you to jump into one of the foam pits and try and get out...then you'll see why this is great for kids growing bodies. A warning...it does sometimes smell a little sweaty in there...

For the last 4 things to do in Salem Oregon with your kids, read the Get Real Estate Blog.