Tot Spot: A Winter Haven for Area Families

Linda (second from left) and friends celebrating winter at Tot Spot with Mrs. McPuppet. (2001)

Since 1996, Tot Spot has been a popular destination for families seeking fun and socialization during cold months. Linda Cimakasky-Barr, the IYB’s College Discovery  Program Coordinator was the brains behind the idea!

At the time, Linda had an energetic two-year-old son and wanted a safe place where he could get the wiggles out during the winter. She also wanted a safe space where her littles could play while she and her friends could meet and socialize. 

While visiting Boston, Linda, her husband, and their friends took their children to an old refurbished school that offered various activities in each classroom and large motor activities in the gym; the kids could have fun burning energy while their parents stayed and supervised. Linda loved the atmosphere and knew that Ithaca needed something similar!

​After discussing the idea with her playgroup friends, Linda presented the idea to the IYB’s then-interim Director, Alice Green. Recognizing the community’s need for an affordable indoor play space during the winter, Alice was on board with creating a stay-and-play place for tots and their families. 

Reflecting on the early years, Linda recalls, “Tot Spot lines would be out the door; parents liked the idea of being with their children and also having a chance to meet new community members, etc., in a safe, child-friendly place. It was such a satisfying activity to be a part of!”

Nearly three decades later, Tot Spot remains the perfect winter-time spot for Ithaca-area families with little ones to meet up to play, socialize, and build a supportive community with one another.

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