Dallas has a number of options for parents who want to engage in activities with their toddlers and for parents who want their children to interact more with peers. Consider finding a program that your child has already expressed interest in. Whether it is a program with lots of structure or a more casual outing, you will find diverse choices in Dallas.
Swimming
At Dallas swim schools, classes are available year-round in indoor pools. Try the Dolfin Swim School for both mommy-and-me type programs and independent classes for more advanced toddlers. By 2 and one-half years of age, your child will begin learning breath control and how to retrieve toys placed underwater on the steps. Check out the various Aquatots programs at Emler Swim School. They're geared toward the developmental level of the child. For example, a beginner will be placed in the Aquatots program, while a 3-year-old who can already swim 15 feet will be in the X-treme Aquatots program.
Parks
With hundreds of parks in the Dallas area, you will not be at a loss for entertainment for your child. Head over to 4Child's Play at Bachman Lake Park in the northwest region for an extensive play area with equipment like no other. If you have a dog, go to the dog run at Main Street Garden with your child for some exercise. On hot days, visit one of the seven Dallas spray parks.
Dance Classes
Enroll little ones in a dance class. Check out Park Cities Dance for Mommy and Me classes for 22-month-olds and up. These focus on general dance skills in yoga, groove and tumble. For $50, as of 2010, students can register for a year. Kids who are 4 years old can try out Broadway, hip hop and ballet. Head to the United Dance Academy, where your 2-to-4-year-old can try out ballet, tap and tumbling, while your 3-to-5-year-old ventures into the world of pre-ballet and creative movement.
Gymnastics
During the cooler months, consider indoor fitness options. Starting at the age of 18 months, enroll your child in a gymnastics class at The Gymnastics Place, where she will learn how to use the bar, beam, vault and trampoline with you at her side. An independent class focused on circuit rotations is available for 2-to-5-year-olds. Near the Walnut Hill Recreation Center, you will find the Dallas School of Gymnastics, which offers classes for individuals 3 years and older.
Sports
Do not think that the toddler age is too young for sports. You can take them to the park to kick the soccer ball around or hit a plastic ball off of a tee. Options for more structured environments are available as well. For example, you can enroll them in the Soccer Tots league to learn skills and teamwork. As of 2010, 12-week-long sessions cost $192. Go to the Little Gym, with two locations near University Park and Carrollton, if your little ones are interested in karate or cheerleading.
