Childhood Stress Relief: Fun Activities in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois
It’s often said to children, “You’re too young to be stressed” or “You don’t know what stress is,” but these kinds of statements, though well-intentioned, can inadvertently invalidate a child's emotional experience. The truth is, that stress impacts everyone differently. It depends on their perception, coping skills, and life circumstances. What if, instead of dismissing their stress, we helped children engage in stress-relieving activities
Bloomington-Normal are beautiful sister cities that provide ample opportunities for families to get creative, active, or adventurous.
Activities in Bloomington-Normal:
1. City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation & Town of Normal Parks and Recreation have beautiful trails, parks, courts, etc., that you can enjoy with your child and family. Following these links are maps to the parks that are located throughout the sister cities.
The parks and recreation websites also outline a number of other activities that are taking place throughout our community. These programs include exercise, cooking, art, aquatics, and so much more. It’s a great opportunity to connect your child with others and explore activities that could help reduce stress.
https://www.normalil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/20809/Winter_Spring-ActivityGuide?bidId=
https://www.bloomingtonparks.org/home/showpublisheddocument/30994/638717710359900000
2. Miller Park Zoo is also a part of the City of Bloomington park district. This park offers many exhibits where you can enjoy nature and animals!
“ Miller Park Zoo offers many habitats and Zookeeper interaction opportunities that are enjoyed by the whole family. Some highlights include: Sumatran tiger, greater flamingos, American Alligator, river otters, red pandas, lemurs, Galapagos tortoise, bald eagle, Pallas' cat, snow leopards, gibbons, and red wolves. The Zoo features many large indoor and outdoor habitats such as a Tropical America Rainforest, ZooLab, Katthoefer Animal Building, Wallaby WalkAbout, Children's Zoo. Visit the new South American Habitats!”
3. Artful Designs is located in Bloomington, IL and is a fun way to get creative as you paint pottery pieces.
“Join us for an unforgettable experience in pottery painting and stoneware crafting. Reserve your spot today and bring your artistic visions to life.”
4. Children’s Discovery Museum is located in uptown Normal and is a fun place to learn and explore!
“ The mission of the Children’s Discovery Museum is to inspire the love of learning through the power of play. Our mission is accomplished by providing hands-on exhibits, classes, and programs that actively engage the visitor in experiences that stimulate imagination, curiosity, and wonder.”
5. Located in Bloomington is Altitude Trampoline Park, which is a place for children and parents to jump into the fun! It’s open all year round and can be a great location to burn off access energy and have fun.
“ Altitude Trampoline Park Bloomington is an exciting addition to the entertainment mix and is open all year, rain or shine. It is our hope that parents and children alike will appreciate a new destination for active, family entertainment in a safe and clean environment.”
6. Urban Air is a new hotspot located in Normal. It’s known as an adventure park and there is something for the whole family!
“Our indoor adventure parks provide a safe place for the whole family to jump, soar, race, climb, and play. Fun awaits rain or shine.”
7. Iron Coyote is a challenge park located on the edge of Bloomington. This space is known for its ninja classes and obstacle courses!
“Our 20,000 sq/ft facility offers a ropes course with over 35 obstacles, ninja warrior-style obstacle courses, climbing walls, zip line, party rooms, snack bar and an observation mezzanine to enjoy it all!”
8. Also located in the sister cities are the public libraries! The public libraries offer a welcoming environment and an opportunity to explore a love for reading. The libraries also hold a variety of events for people of all ages.
This list only outlines a handful of things that Bloomington-Normal has to offer for fun, creativity, and adventure. Honestly, stress relief doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to be intentional. If your child reports feelings of stress or anxiety, I recommend that you creatively add stress-relieving activities to your schedule. Go to the park after school, sign them up for a class with the parks and recreation programs, or go to the library. Ask them to help you cook dinner, spend time coloring together, or have a dance party. These simple but intentional activities can significantly reduce stress and give your child the tools they need to manage emotions.
If you're interested in learning more about how we can support you and your child through stress relief, our providers are here to help. Visit our website to see our team or schedule an appointment today!
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