Top 3 Must-Visit Hangout Spots in Your City

Those days when I'm not sure what to do with my son, A, it is nice to have a few go-to spots to choose from. Sometimes there is a plan in mind and sometimes we just go somewhere just to be somewhere. Where we go may depend on what we are in the mood for. Sometimes A wants to socialize with other kids, sometimes we just want to get some fresh air and be outside, and other times I'm looking to spend some one-on-one time with him without the risk of having to socialize. Below are my favorite hangout spots.

Mall

I like the mall for those days when it is too cold or hot to be outside but I want to be around other people. Malls often have a little play area for children, so it allows A an opportunity to play and be around other kids. The shops in the mall near our house frequently change so it is also fun to go every so often and see what is new. When we need a change of scenery and it's too cold outside and we are broke, walking around the mall is a free option that gets us moving.

Your House

Something nice about hanging out at home is that I don't have to exhaust myself with socializing, I can stay in my pajamas, and I have access to all my stuff when I want it. A and I like to do workbooks together either in the kitchen or on the porch. It gives us an opportunity to spend time together and lets A develop his skills. Other times we might read books, cook something, or do yoga. When the weather is warm, we keep the doors and some of the windows open so we get that fresh air in the house and some of the outside sounds.

Park

We love going to the park. Often, we go on a multi-mile walk and stop at the park on our way back. A plays on the playground with other kids and I get a lot of homework done on my phone. If my husband, C, comes with us, sometimes we will kick a ball around, play disc golf, play pickleball, or hit a baseball. If there is a soccer game going on, A, usually wants to watch for a bit so we will stop and watch a random game and cheer when either team makes a goal.

What are your favorite hangout spots?

• Mall
• Your house
• Park
• Other

You can vote for more than one answer.