Babycenter says a baby’s socialization skills in the first year are dependent on Mom and Dad. Each time you interact with baby, you are helping him or her build socialization skills. These memberships can help build socialization skills for baby while having fun! Many of them aren’t places where you’ll find “Do Not Touch” signs. You might also find some really awesome places to have baby’s first birthday in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Zoo: There is so much to look at at the zoo! The cost of this membership is definitely worth the money. You can wander and enjoy the animals without having to see it all in one day. There are special events throughout the year, like Zoo Boo and Christmas at the Zoo.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: Every year we continue to renew our membership to the Children’s Museum for so many reasons. I love that the museum is great about changing their exhibits frequently and keeping things fresh so it seems like there’s always something to do. Our family’s favorite thing to do together is ride the carousel. We also like the new Science Works exhibit, Playscape and the new Paw Patrol: Adventure Play exhibit. Playscape has a fantastic play area just for infants, Babyscape. And since Playscape is for kids five and under, it’s perfect for taking little ones to splash at the water table, dig in the sand, play music or make art. The Museum is a great place to go play indoors during the winter or when it’s just too hot outside.
Conner Prairie: Open year round, there is plenty to see and do at Conner Prairie. My little ones love seeing the animals and playing in the splash pad in the summer. There are extra activities that you can sign up for, and it is nice to walk around the grounds and explore nature. You may even qualify for discounted admission through the Indiana Access Pass.
Kindermusik: Music can be uplifting, calming and fun! Kindermusik offers class for newborn and up. These classes are weekly. You and baby can play instruments, dance and even learn how to use music at home.
Goldfish Swim School: Most babies love water, and water safety is a such an important skill to develop. This membership includes swim lessons that are parent and me and the class sizes are small. Open swim time is also available during the week. The water is a nice temperature and kids can enjoy swimming and using their fun rafts.
Gymboree Play & Music: At Gymboree, you can play with baby, learn new songs, and burn some energy crawling around in their play gym. They even offer extra hours a few times a week for free play. The things we love best about Gymboree are bubbles, parachute time, and lots of singing! Babies also love looking at themselves in the mirror and saying “Hi” to Gymbo!
NinjaZone Academy Baby Ninja: As soon as your baby is walking, NinjaZone Academy is the place to be! Their Baby Ninjas class is for kiddos who can walk up to age 3. It’s a great first introduction to fitness and sports. Your baby will get great socialization, learn to follow instructions and have great bonding time with mom or dad. Plus, it’s super cute!
Katy Mann contributed to the update of this article and has added locations not originally suggested by the author.