Got kids? Get out of the house!

One of the main goals in parenthood is building a strong bond between the parent and the child. But, how can a parent continue to find new ways in order to achieve this? Well, it is easier than it seems. According to The Child Development Institute, just spending time with your child is the most important “activity” for positively building their mental health and to help them adjust to life. A parent spending time with their child makes the child feel loved and creates a safe space for the child to voice their thoughts and feelings. Also, the time spent is key for the parent to identify their child’s strengths and weaknesses which can lead to better guidance.

Here’s a Beverly, Mass.,-based list that we’ve developed.

1. Go to the Beverly Public Libraries

There is a public library in downtown Beverly and another on Vine Street for the Beverly Farms area. Both offer Tales for Tots, a storytime where children come and have a story read to them with activities afterwards. It is a great way to spice up storytime with your little one and is a good way for the parent and child to interact with new peers.

2. Hit the Beverly Beaches

The beach is always a great place, especially in this region. The beach is a treat considering there are really only three good months that you can go out of the year. Bringing your children to the beach is the equivalent of giving them candy as a treat. Beverly abuts the ocean, so there is an abundance of parks and beaches to bring your little ones.

3. Have a Blast at Playgrounds

There are playgrounds strewn throughout Beverly which allows easy access to outdoor activities. Dane Street Beach just had a new playground constructed in June of 2016. Taking your children to the playground helps to build social skills, promotes exercise and can even help with motor skills.

4. Go to the Movies

Beverly is lucky enough to have their own theater, The Cabot. Taking a child to the theater is a fun way to spice things up. It is easy to just put a movie on at the house with all of the access we have these days. But taking your child out breaks the norm and creates a specialized event to share.

5. Catch Some Music

Taking a child to the theater is an enriching experience. The theater is a great way to learn about different cultures, traditions and historical events. The live acting is a great tool for your child to see and appreciate the arts.

6. Have Little Ones Help During Your Chores

Incorporating children with your daily chores is a great way to bond and to teach by example. It can be a good way to get your child to grow in competency and responsibility.