Toddler activities: A trip to the park

Like many of you, (Hello, UK!) we've been having a bit of an Indian summer around here. We have been soaking up as much sun and warm weather as possible, in preparation for the months and months we will be spending indoors soon. Sigh. 

One of the best ways to spend time outside with a toddler, in my opinion, is to go to the park. There's lots of open space, places to explore, things to do, and endless energy-burning opportunities to be had. Add to that that fact that parks are free to visit, and you've got yourself a seriously good deal. 

We are lucky enough to have (roughly) 20 parks within a 20 minute drive of our house. Only one of them is within realistic walking distance, so when we had the car one day last week we made sure to spend some time at a park we rarely visit in Provo on our way to pick up Daddy from work. 

A few photos: 

Espen the Explorer.

"Circle!"

Isn't he a handsome little guy? 

This was a really easy little field trip. We were going out and about anyway, so all I had to do was make sure we left about half an hour early to make time for the park. The park itself was only a few blocks out of our way, and we parked on the street, which made it really quick and easy to get in and out. Then all I had to do was stay two steps behind Espen while he played his little heart out. He had a great time exploring a new park and playground, and half an hour was just about perfect for both of us. I loved seeing how a new playground challenged Espen and encouraged him to think a little differently. I loved seeing how he is friendly and confident enough to make new friends no matter where we are. I did not love how that same confidence makes him think he can walk off a four foot drop and be fine. But I learned that I can move quickly when I need to! 

The weather is supposed to get colder and wetter this week, so I guess fall is finally here. We will be sneaking in as much time on the playground as we can.