My trio turns 13 months old in a few days and I am wondering at what age did you start trying to do story time at the library/book store, getting out more to playgroups and other organized activities.

I feel the cabin fever starting and the weather is still nice. We don't have a ton of big toys yet, just a few push/ride on stuff, a little people animal sounds farm, an activity table and odds and ends. No playhouse outside or in yet. I am getting nervous about the new tantrums and bits of fussiness coming out.

Help me prepare for what's to come!! THANKS!! P.S. Big gift ideas for the Holidays are also welcome!!!

Jackie

We joined an organized storytime at the library July 2006, my trio was born Feb 2004. I had to talk our library into letting me come as the only adult with the trio. They wanted one adult per child. They did great and we continued this for a couple of years. Now I am going with just my singleton and he has yet to actually make it thru the whole story!

I remember this age being tricky to keep the day going. We did lots of shuffling with the toys. Keeping one basket out for a couple of weeks and then bringing out a "new" basket of toys that had stayed in a closet. We did lots of rotating like this. Play doh was messy but kept them entertained for awhile. Washable crayons with big sheets of paper covering the table. Or washable markers and a cheap vinyl tablecloth that can be wiped down. We would sometimes take baths just for the heck of it because that would be some fun play time. Trips outside even just to run back and forth in the yard. Tons of goofy dancing and singing while cranking up the music always distracted their fussiness. Hope this helps!!

Shiloh--Proud Mom to:
BGG born 2/04
B born 7/06

It really depends on where you live, in the north, snowy areas. I would not get out yet, warmer weather I would get out. I know cabin fever is horrid, but I was not a big fan or stomach virus's etc.

BBG Triplets Born March 31, 2004
31 weeks three days
Douglas
Kalie and
John Michael

Mine were outside and at the park every day from the time they were infants. I live in the desert though, so it's possible to get out every day all winter. I would definitely establish a play area outside for them. I swear mine lived outside once they could walk. They were happiest out in the fresh air. We started with a sand area and a playhouse. Then we had a slide and then a swingset. Then a trampoline. Now we have three swingsets and five slides, not to mention enough riding toys to start a daycare. (I'm actually not making that up. We are the house where old used toys go to die.)

Changing the scenery every half an hour or so is how I survived the stage you are in right now! They are getting to the climbing stage, so think BIG STUFF!

Michele
Sarah, Gregory, Amanda
born 1/22/04 at 35w1d

Our surprise baby Austin born 06/15/2005

www.fourtimesthefun.blogspot.com

You can try some outings. Hang on for the ride because they will change a lot this year! Last year I remember barely enjoying outdoors while this year that is all they want. They would probably live outside if they could!! It won't be long before you wonder where the year went. From 1-now has gone by very quickly!!

We attend luncheons, Bible studies, etc. A playgroup would be great if you can find one! Heck, it only takes a couple more kids with yours and you wil have one!





Jenny

- Playdates/playgroups: Started when they were walking well, maybe 14 months?

- Story time at the library: Tried it twice (by myself) when they were 18 months, and I ended up having to leave both times b/c my kids were causing too much of a ruckus. I definately need 1 adult/kid for that.

- If yours are standing up well, take them to the grocery if you just need to get out of the house. I let all three of mine stand in the grocery cart, and they love it. I started doing that when they were about 15 months. Take them to look at all the fruits and flowers.

- Same thing with the pet store. Stick them in a cart, and show them all the fish/animals. They are so little, the pet store will seem like a zoo.

- Big toys for xmas: At that age, my trio LOVED their ball pit. Also, ride-on toys and big dump trucks they can push. Maybe a teeter-totter.

Hope this helps!

Jenny
single mom to spontaneous BBB 34w 2d

http://lilypie.com>

Thanks for the advice. This helps a lot. We live in a pretty moderate climate and I've been getting them outside more. We've got just a sand/water table but I need to think about expanding our outdoor play area. THANKS again!

What gestation were they born at?

Mine were 31 weekers, and I kept them in the first 2 RSV seasons. I was seriously serious about it the first year. They didn't leave the house other than medical appts, and no one came into the house. The second year we were a little more relaxed, but still didn't do anything frivolous, for lack of a better word. I wouldn't have done library hour, but we did have close friends and their kids over for playdates. All were well aware that my kids' immune systems were compromised, and never came near us if there was any sign of illness. We just didn't go places where we didn't know everyone.

The third year we went to preschool, and just stayed sick from October to April. Non stop. There wasn't a day when someone in my house didn't have a cold or pinkeye or the flu. It was awful. I am praying this year will be better!

BGG born 4/25/05 at 31w1d




New baby girl born 9/19/06