Out & About

Let's talk cell phones. I used to be one of those people who said, "I will never hand my baby a cell phone or some sort of electronic device to keep her occupied." Then I became a REAL mom and I got REAL. It is impossible to spend every day doing cute, crazy, creative activities, right? Or maybe it's just me. But every so often moms need to get out and run some errands or go buy themselves a new pair of jeans. (Ok let's be honest, most errands usually involve grocery shopping or buying something for your kids.)

The first time I introduced the cell phone was on a shopping trip. My younger brother was buying shoes with my mom and Audette was not loving being in the stroller. Plus, I knew the second I took her out she would clear the entire Nordstrom shoe display. So many friends had told me their babies loved looking at pictures, videos and all kinds of apps for toddlers. I downloaded my first, then and there: Fisher Price. Since then, it's been a big hit. If you haven't ventured in to the world of cell phone apps for toddlers, I would highly recommend the Fisher Price apps. In your app store, search Fisher Price and you will find a collection to choose from, all based on your babies age and learning level. They focus on repetitive learning: everything from the alphabet, numbers, shapes, colors and animals. Simple, straight-forward learning.

I would love to hear what you moms have to say about the wild world of personal electronic devices. How often do you use them? When are the best times to introduce them to little ones? Are you completely anti or have you broken down and given your kid their own iPod or similar device?

For me, cell phone play tends to be my last resort for shopping outings. I've found that discovering helpful little places to play along the way keeps Audette entertained and engaged. A great place to take a break is the dressing room. I used to avoid these like the plague because it seemed too difficult, but then I remembered my little girl is a bit vain and likes to stare at herself in the mirror. (Wonder where she got that from?) Most stores have the dressing rooms big enough for a family circus, which means just enough enclosed space to run around and check out the different mirrors and benches. It's a good snack time break too, just make sure you set limits on crawling underneath the doorways. That could be a disaster!

Empty elevators are also a fun place to let out some energy. I'm sure I've been caught hundreds of times on security cameras singing and dancing to little Audi in an empty elevator. She always appreciates the extra focus when we are alone together, since shopping malls and stores can be overwhelming.

When it comes to food on an "out and about" trip, anyone who knows Audette, knows having something handy to munch on is imperative. Tupperware or Ziplock baggies full of dried or cut up fruit, cheese or crackers can keep her busy through several stores, but it is always fun when we throw in a little bit of a spin and meet up with Dad for a special snack.

Even if it means getting in the car and driving to Dad, I think both dads and kids can't get enough of those special moments together. And when Dad isn't available or close by, even a special stop with Mom shows your little one she is just as important as those groceries you had to pick up for dinner tonight.

Seattleites or future visitors: Top Pot Doughnuts is a fun local treat. And if donuts aren't your thing, they also serve ice cream! Salted Caramel is heavenly.

Now, I really want to hear what you have to say about handing toddlers electronic devices! Let me know what I'm missing or what mistakes I'm making in this unknown world.