When our children were babies and toddlers, my friend Gabrielle and I started a parents and pre-schoolers' trips program at the Cambridge, Massachusetts YMCA. We led trips to the Swan Boats, Children's Museum, all around Boston, even to a Japanese Tea Ceremony on Newbury Street.
Gabrielle has passed, advising me from above. Our children are now in their 30s, several with children of their own. But the love of exploring new places is still strong. Fortunately our grandson Sage, a lively 3-year old, loves exploring new kid-friendly places as much as Bob and I do, especially if they involve building, creating art, and outdoor spaces.
For the past two weeks, we covered for his child care provider, traveling to a new destination every morning, all in Marin County. The Discovery Museum, the Marine Mammal Hospital, the Farmer's Market, and three playgrounds kept us busy.
It's summer, so there were lots of visitors from around the world. I was especially impressed by the number of grandparents and grandchildren. Busy working parents (if they can afford it) usually send their pre-schoolers to babysitters, day care, and pre-school.
But the joy of linking young children in excursions with their grandparents and other grandparent-like folks, is boundless. Bob and I would not have gone to these destinations without the company of a youngster. We met-up with other grandparents, an uncle, and aunt, and other child care providers.
The experience was such fun that I'm thinking about starting a "Youngsters and Oldsters" Trips Program. Interested? Contact sgelardin@gmail.com or view my FaceBook page.