The founder and editor of BostonMamas.com is Christine Koh. Her daughter Laurel is now in Kindergarten, but like me, she has no problem digging back into her brain to remember those first shocking months during which “going for a walk” is suddenly an activity to plan your day around.
Whether you are on maternity leave or just visiting, here are Christine’s ideas for spending a week with your babe in Boston:
One of the many reasons I adore Boston is that it’s a wonderfully family friendly place to live. Whether you desire urban or more bucolic surrounds, a variety of fun adventures are within reach. Here’s a sample itinerary that will make any rookie mom in Boston look like a pro:
Monday: Start the week off in classic Boston fashion and meander along the stroller friendly walkways of the Boston Common and Public Garden. Be sure to stop at the Make Way for Ducklings statues for a cute photo opp with baby. The Common/Garden also serves as a perfect launch point to explore Newbury Street or Charles Street.
Tuesday: After your busy day in the city, enjoy a leisurely, local day via your neighborhood public library. Many public libraries in Massachusetts have wonderful children’s rooms; investigate your library’s offering in advance to coordinate your visit with story time or sing-alongs.
Wednesday: October in Boston means ridiculously cute pictures of your pumpkin amidst pumpkins. Not too far outside the city are many wonderful farms where you can take cute photos, enjoy kids activities, and stock up on farm fare.
Thursday: When Laurel was a baby oh, how we walked. It was the only thing that soothed her. Go beyond the loops around the block and explore Boston’s Emerald Necklace ”“ a 1,100-acre chain of parks in Boston and Brookline ”“ which offer amazing green spaces within the city for nature walks and activities. Another wonderfully stroller friendly option outside the city is the Minuteman Bikeway. This paved bikeway passes through Cambridge, Arlington, Lexington, and Bedford.
Friday: You’ve made it to the end of a busy week and deserve a little restoration. Enjoy a yoga class with baby at Isis Maternity (schedules vary by location).
Saturday: If you’re longing for fine art but can’t fathom the confines of a museum with baby, consider the DeCordova Sculpture Park in Lincoln. This serene outdoor sculpture park will afford you the opportunity to enjoy art and nature in tandem (I recommend babywearing for this event so you can walk the grounds freely).
Sunday: Nothing spells Sunday like brunch. Family friendly brunch spots in the Boston area abound; no doubt there’s a good location near you, otherwise hop over to Boston Mamas for favorite family friendly dining recommendations.
Bonus Activity (urban): Does your baby like to rock? Do you miss grown up music? Baby Loves Disco gives grownups a way to enjoy the music scene with babies in tow. Rock out with baby on the dance floor, relax in the chill zone, and enjoy healthy snacks.
Bonus Activity (bucolic): One of my favorite green spots in the Boston area is the Beaver Brook Reservation on the Belmont/Waltham line. This gem for the whole family includes a spray pool and playground, plus the reservation includes 59 acres open to walking, biking, and picnicking.
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Thank you Christine for sharing your favorite memories with us. For more current reflections, see BostonMamas.com.
For another rookie mom’s take on fun times in Boston, see Becky’s warm week in Boston post.
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