the nmb parks & rec programs
We love all the parks in the Grand Strand but it is clear that the NMB Parks Department goes just a step above. They always have something going on: cute programs, playdates, music in the park and more. We recently attended the first Park n’ Play pop-up and one of the Playground Playdates too. If you’re in NMB (and even if you’re not) then these are worth checking out. Here is what you can expect.
Park n' PLay
WHEN | The events happen from 10am–12pm every other Tuesday. THE COMPLETE SCHEDULE CAN BE FOUND HERE. These will end on Oct 25.
WHAT TO EXPECT | There were about 12-15 families there when we went and even though Yow Park is small it did not feel too busy or crowded. The park team will spread out several fun outdoor games (all kid-friendly versions) like horseshoes, golf, bean bag toss, a ping-pong like table, a playground parachute and more. The play was all unstructured and flowed well as kids took interest in certain activities then would run off to the playground equipment and float back around again.
The event mentioned creating art activities on the website but that was not happening yet during our visit. The parks dept staff desire to invest more funds into even more playground games if the turnout for these continue to be good. Hooray!
BEST FOR | Kids 2+ will enjoy this. Older kids will obviously have more skill and concentration skills to focus on the games for longer periods of time.
WHAT ELSE IS GREAT | Since so many families are attending this is a great way to meet other mom friends and establish some connections.
PLAYGROUND PLAYDATES
WHEN & WHERE | These are at 3pm on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at Shelter #3 in Central Park. Each one will have a unique theme and you can find that info on their website here.
WHAT TO EXPECT | This activity is a little more structured than the Park N’ Play events but still plenty of time just for playground play. The first 10-15 minutes is just for kids to run around and enjoy the playground with their friends. Then the staff will begin a couple of quick structured activities then follow with more open playtime.
BEST FOR | All ages will enjoy the playground. Ages 3+ will do best with the activities.
WHAT ELSE IS GREAT | This is a great time to meet other moms – or a great activity to send the kids to with the grandparents (if they live near). I saw lots of grandparents there and I am jealous that so many families have that option! There were about 12-20 kids at the event we attended, most kids between ages of 3-6 but a few babies and toddlers also.
