Take Junior out for an afternoon on the town! Your tyke will gain important, enriching experiences. And more importantly, you’ll get out of the house and meet other parents. Here are a few hot spots around central Arkansas:

Barefoot Studio: Take a little time to breathe…and bond with Baby in a Mommy & Me yoga class. Two classes are offered every week: The infant class is for brand-new moms with babies up to 12 months and another is for moms with 1-3-year-olds.

Fit4Mom: Sign up for the Stroller Strides fitness program that moms can enjoy with their little ones in tow. Certified instructors weave songs and activities into exercise routines, so the baby stays entertained while mom gets in some cardio and builds strength.

The Little Gym of Little Rock: Weekly parent and child classes start at 4 months with the 45-minute Bugs class, followed by the Birds class (10-19 months). Little ones strengthen motor and social skills as they listen to music, dance and sing.

Local Libraries: Check your local library branch for free baby storytimes! Many branches of the Central Arkansas Library System offer weekly events that include stories, singing and group interaction for young babies and toddlers. The Laman Library offers a weekly Babytime lapsit program for little ones ages 6 months to 2 years, and the Laman Library Argenta Branch also offers an interactive storytime for babes.

MOPS: This international organization brings moms together in local groups to talk about motherhood and foster friendships. Moms with infants through kindergarten-age children are welcome.

The Wonder Place: This indoor play space is designed especially for ages 8 and younger. Little ones ages 1 and up should have a blast exploring the tree house, splashing in the water table and making messy art in the studio.

Pictured above: Mason and Steve Maddox make a splash at The Wonder Place.