By Rebecca Long Pyper
There are at least two reasons parents might want to take their kids to the Blackfoot Community Center — and soon.
The first is that BCC’s Activity Center is ideal for little ones who have cabin fever. That’s because the center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 to 2 a.m., hours when older children are at school and littler ones are trying to occupy themselves. Cost is $3 per child; parents are free.
The 2,500-square-food center is comprised of one large room with a play structure made up of multiple units — think slide, swing and bouncing toys. “It’s completely open so you can see your kids any time in the structure,” BCC executive director Ashlee Howell said.
The center also has a large padded floor that appeals to both bobbling toddlers and older kids who want to sprint with a little spring in their step. There’s an indoor basketball hoop and ropes and rings or climbing on, and there’s a set of larger-than-life foam blocks as big as three feet tall for building forts and houses. “Really it’s a great opportunity for kids when it’s cold outside, (and) it’s a great place for families to meet,” Howell said.
Also, guests can bring their own food, so as Howell said, “Pack your picnic lunch or grab your Happy meals” and head on down to the center.
The second time parents might want to stop by is Friday nights from 6 to 10 p.m. But the parents won’t need to stay; that’s because Friday night is Parents’ Night Out. Drop off your kids to the tune of $10 per child or $25 per family, and you and your spouse can have yourself a quiet evening alone.
“It’s great for parents because their kids beg them to come, so they know their kids are getting activities and having a really great time,” Howell said.
Children are supervised by BCC staffers who have passed background checks, are CPR certified and work with kids daily. The facility is licensed with the state, so Howell said this childcare option should give parents peace of mind when leaving kids for a few hours. “It’s great for parents to have an opportunity to do whatever they want to do — if it’s grocery shopping by themselves or going out with their spouse on a date night,” she said.
Staff will not change diapers, so parents who leave kids who aren’t potty trained will need to be reachable by phone and stay in town because they will be called if nature calls.
The average number of kids playing any given Friday night is less than 20, and the center maintains a one-to-eight ratio, meaning there are always two to three staff members caring for kids. Howell asked that if large groups plan to attend, the parents give BCC a call so the center can be adequately staffed for the evening.
And don’t get confused on location; BCC’s office and children’s museum are located at 157 W. Sexton in Blackfoot, but the activity center is in a nearby building at 257 S. Broadway.
Kids play on the indoor toys at Blackfoot Community Center’s Activity Center. Photo by Jenny Losee