Little Budding Scientists

As every Mama knows, there are times when kids just need to run and explore and touch and see and not be told no in response to their curiosity. For times like these, we usually head to Cosi and the wonderful Little Kid Space there that encompasses a large part of the second floor of this nationally recognized kid's science museum. In Little Kid Space little ones can play in a tree (the climbing / slide area) or use their imaginations in a variety of settings (houses, medical offices, vehicles). There is also a large water play area which is always a favorite for splashing and learning about how liquid moves.

Little Kid Space has an age cut-off of Kindergarten, but the rest of the museum is super fun for the older kiddos. They can explore space or the ocean all in one day as well visit a town called Progress and make gadgets.

If you go:

• Consider a membership if you're local and planning on returning often.
• Check the web site for special exhibits and activities.
• For short visits, park at a meter on the streets surrounding the museum and save money on parking.
• Bring an extra change of clothes if you'll be taking part in water play.

Bird Watching in the City

While you would never guess this birding oasis is back there (behind the city impound lot), the Grange Insurance Audubon Center is a great place for a kiddo outing. The building itself has learning and fun opportunities behind each door. Kids can don bird costumes and climb through a nest, see native animals and talk about natural habitats through puppet play. There is a great library full of themed books (birds, animals, green living) and the chance to bird watch.

The grounds, in partnership with Metro Parks, are wonderful for exploring wildlife and flora. We particularly enjoy looking for turtles sunning themselves on logs in the Scioto River. Across a pond with a boardwalk is a rock climbing wall and big playground for added fun.

If you go:

• Pack snacks and drinks. There is no place to buy them on the grounds.
• Map it before you go because it is tucked back there, but is easy to find once you know where you are going.
• Bring a stroller if you plan on taking little ones across the board walk - there are not high rails to keep curious kiddos out of the water.