Time and Time Again

Contributed by Christina from The Mommy's Guide:

"Killing time" is the most awful expression I can think of. I can't stand to hear it.  Time should never be "killed," it should be spent in the best way possible.

Since my son was born, I have tried to never waste time and I certainly have never killed it! I try to schedule everything in the most efficient manner possible, but since that doesn't always work, I always have several backup plans.

An extra five minutes at home is time to read a book, or check on the garden. An extra 10 minutes in the car is time to hear some great songs (we always have out favorite kids jams in the car). An extra 20 minutes out and about is time to look at the animals in the pet store. An extra half hour is time to stop at the nearest playground.

The key is to always be prepared. Your phone, books, magazines, snacks, drinks, baby wipes and band-aids should always be in your purse or car! It's also great to know the area you're in.

When I find myself with some extra time (we aren't talking about a whole day -- we know there are plenty of events and places to go and chores at home to do to fill that time) I usually don't have any extra money to go with it, so knowing free or cheap ways to spend a little time is essential.

Here are my top five out-of-the-house suggestions for time fillers (not killers) that also won't kill your budget: 

1. Libraries: Check out our library listing page to see where the nearest library is. Not only can you spend time there rain or shine, you can also borrow books, movies and CDs to help you fill other times usefully! They also usually have free local magazines for parents, which can help you fill your own extra minutes. 
2. Parks and playgrounds: Check out our playground listing page to help find one! If you don't want your kid to argue when it is time to go, trying out one where they won't run into their friends can help. Don't forget that you can go to any school playground too if it isn't a school day. Duck ponds are also big fun!
3. Pet stores: As long as your child understands that you are not going to bring home any of the animals, it can be really fun to look at all the critters available. Unfortunately for me, my son likes to ask the employees to take out the tarantulas ... and they are glad to oblige! My favorite is Parrots of the World in Rockville Centre, but any one will do.
4. Stores with train tables: Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Carle Place and Trainland in Lynbrook have them, and yes, they are meant for the kids to play with. If anyone knows of more, please fill me in!
5. Bowling: It is so easy to bowl for free. Many stores give out the free game cards and many bowling alleys participate in free kids bowling programs.

Of course there are plenty of other things to do, i.e. take a walk, go for a bike ride, make some artwork, etc. The point is, your time (especially with the kids) is precious and should always be spent doing something constructive, educational, relaxing or otherwise beneficial, and you should consciously enjoy it.

I just hate the idea of doing something just to "kill time." Think about all the advice we get from experienced parents with grown-up children. Time and time again we are told "Cherish the time with them," "Enjoy them while they're young," "Blink and they're adults" and the like.

I love the concept of using time to its maximum potential, but not to excess. My idea of "multi-tasking" is eating lunch while a load of laundry is going.

Anyway. I hope you've enjoyed my ideas. Stay healthy, wealthy & wise!

For full nassau county libray listings, local notworthy parks, reviews, playplaces and this weeks events go to www.themommysguide.com!