Logbook of a Mom in a State of Hypervigilance
While I enjoy family outings to the beach or to the countless green spaces and natural parks that make up, in my opinion, one of the main attractions of Lisbon and its region, sometimes I despair of constantly having to chase after my child. “Watch out for the swing right behind you!” “Careful, you can see there’s a gap!” “Watch out for cars, stay on the bike path!” “Be careful not to get stung!” – those jellyfish at Torre de Belém are a real problem…
This state of hypervigilance proves exhausting, especially when your child suddenly decides, not even three years old, to stop taking naps – it would have been nice to give mom a heads up, wouldn’t it? When fatigue sets in, I dig deep into my last reserves to find a calm activity that will allow me to relax or sit down for a few minutes – provided, of course, that my little one also agrees to stay still, but that’s another story… The task, relatively easy for parents like me with a child over 3 years old, can be challenging for those with toddlers (0-3 years old). Complex, indeed, but not insurmountable, if you know where to look!
In this article, Lisboa Events proves beyond doubt that there is plenty to occupy every weekend of the month in Lisbon with toddlers. In the form of an agenda, a sort of logbook, we present the program that would be ours for April if our son still wore diapers.
A Month in Colors and Music
April 6, 2024:
In the morning, opt for a gentle moment at Ecos – Sons de Sentir (Setúbal). Taking as its starting point the book “De que cor é um beijinho” by Rocio Bonilla, the space offers a sensory theater full of music and magic, wrapped in hugs, kisses, and melodies that will warm hearts.
In the afternoon, continue your toddler’s musical exploration at Palácio Baldaya with a concert for babies. The importance of music in children’s cognitive and emotional development, through the exploration of sounds, timbres, and rhythms, has been scientifically proven. This initiative by the Freguesia de Benfica, in partnership with the New Music School, will give you the opportunity to accompany your baby on his journey towards new skills (auditory abilities) and discoveries (components of music – rhythm, volume, melody, timbre).
April 14, 2024:
In the heart of Parque Florestal de Monsanto, commune with nature through the educational project “Dançar-Cantar com a Floresta” by Asas, which invites families, adults, and children of all ages, to a session of walking, body creation, sounds, and movements with the forest. An invitation to dance, create stories, play, and invent songs. Vibrate and dance to the rhythm of the earth!
April 21, 2024:
Familiarise yourself with the work of the artist and educator Rita Rovisco. In her artist’s studio, born out of a keen sense of childhood needs (exploring and playing), freedom reigns: children unleash their creativity and imagination through installations that they are invited to transform freely. During the workshop titled “Dentro e Fora da Caixa“, toddlers will manipulate various objects with colourful textures to broaden their knowledge of the world. One criterion for participation: not yet knowing how to walk! A tip: remember to dress your child in old clothes because they will come out painted from head to toe!
April 27, 2024:
Get ready to experience a magical and fun time with the public show “Simão – Supercoelho e a pedra mágica“. Simão is an irresistible and mischievous rabbit who loves to imagine himself as a superhero! When he plays with his younger brother Gaspar and his friend Lou, they form the Supercoelho team! For these greedy rabbits, two treats each are not enough! Since his mother won’t give them more, Simão imagines that there is a magic stone that makes everyone say YES: if they found it, his mother would say YES to all their requests! The Supercoelho team therefore embarks on a new mission, but unfortunately, the villainous Professor Lobo is also searching for this extraordinary stone…
What else?
Did you know that the Museu das Comunicações offers a monthly activity for families with babies up to 36 months? The project, titled “Codigo Bebé,” through animated and colourful stories, aims to develop key skills in toddlers such as motor coordination, sensory stimulation, and interaction with peers. Lua Cheia (Casa do Coreto), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Museu do Oriente, libraries of Lisbon, Palco de Chocolate, Little Things, Cativar, Movipensa, Árvore dos Bebés, Estação das Letras, musicaparabebesecriancas,… many other places, institutions, or artists that we only mention here but whose regular programming for toddlers is featured in our newsletter.
My partner and fellow adventurer in Lisboa Events believes I have a tendency to fill up the family agenda too much. Far be it from me to involve you in a domestic quarrel, but: what do you think?
