Do you need ideas for activities to do with kids? Tried and true suggestions that real moms actually do? Here they are! We’re asking families to share their favorites, to help you find yours.
I’ve been following Nicole since her blogging days. I am always inspired by her posts (follow her at @nicole.dula) and never disappointed when I’ve followed a recipe, watched a show (see below), read a book or visited a new place. She’s also inspired me to subscribe to a new kid’s magazine – Bravery.
Meet Nicole
Hello! I’m Nicole, the mom of an energetic, talkative, and lovable 3 year old, Romy. In my pre-mom life I had a food blog, but I still like to share recipes, pictures of Romy, and diverse books for kids on my Instagram account. I was born and raised in West Michigan, but moved to metro Detroit after marrying my husband. We love all that metro Detroit has to offer and it’s been fun getting to know it all over again, with activities that are kid-friendly with Romy. This list would look a little different if COVID-19 wasn’t in the picture, but we’re all getting creative!
Favorite Ways To Spend Family Time:
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Nature walks + scooter ride through the park or a hike in the woods
- Insect Lore Butterfly Garden
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Playing I Spy at the different decorations in yards and gardens – I call this our outdoor preschool
Favorite Places To Go:
Favorite Bedtime Stories:
Favorite Recipes:
Best Park/Playground: Stony Creek Metropark (Shelby Township)
There’s lots to do at Stony Creek! Bike riding, trails on cement or in the woods. kayak rentals, and several play structures.
Best Television Show: If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
For Romy: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie on Amazon Prime. For me: The Babysitter’s Club on Netflix (Editor’s note: I watched BSC per Nicole’s recommendation and it’s the best thing to come out of 2020).
Mom-Must: Instagram stories/art
With COVID-19 keeping us mostly home, seeing Children’s authors, illustrators and independent book shops step in to offer something fun and educational for kids has been a bright spot during these challenging times. Instagram story time from @macbarnett and @readersworldholland with thoughtful art projects from @theartoffun are our favorites.
Best Annual Event: Halloween on Tillson Street
Romy adores Halloween, so we had to try visiting Tillson Street. It’s a residential street with old homes that go ALL OUT for Halloween. She was initially overwhelmed, but quickly acclimated and loved our visit. She talked about it for months!
Best Summer Destination: Traverse City
The past few years we’ve vacationed in Traverse City and the surrounding area. We love the food, the beautiful views, and the independent bookstores.
Photo credit: Instagram @nicole.dula
