Kids at the Mall

CEBU, Philippines - Everybody understands the good value of the family spending time together. For instance, a family visit to the mall is not only a thing for Mommy and Daddy and Ate and Kuya, but especially for the adorable little big people who rule their lives. This is what Banilad Town Centre (BTC) always keeps in mind.

Children - little children especially - want the space to run around, even if it's between the supermarket aisles. While they may not particularly enjoy tagging along while Mommy and Daddy shop for the essentials, they surely love it when they're given both the chance to frolic about by themselves and yet are within their parents' watchful yet tolerant attention.

The child-friendly stores that dot the BTC complex will satisfy even the pickiest shopper, and soothe any tantrum-throwing tot. From cooing newborns to giggly and chubby toddlers and even teenagers who claim they would rather spend the day inside their rooms than go out with the whole family, BTC has the perfect shop for them.

For expectant first-time parents, the cozy and comforting Modern Mama Baby Shop offers a lot. Modern Mama carries sought-after imported brands like Medela and an extensive line of Stokke gear as well as local brands for babies, kids, moms and dads.

Active toddlers will find it fun looking around for nice shirts and shorts and dresses at Playpen. Parents will have an easy time choosing clothes for their tiny gentlemen and dainty ladies among easy-to-find items within the spacious shop.

Toys in every shape, size, color, and texture abound at Toys@Work. It's the toddlers' paradise, where they can choose their favorite toys. Parents may find it an opportunity to teach their little ones to value money by allowing them to get only one item at a time - either as a reward, or simply a treat.

Of course, being a parent is not only about giving children what they want, but most especially, what they need, like, for example, knowledge. At Gymboree, there are fun classes for kids 1 year old and above - from language to music. A calm, secluded nook perfect for tutorial sessions is found on the second floor of BTC - The Tutoring Club, whose extensive and proven tutorial methods guarantee students' fast comprehension.

With Global Art's award-winning, international art program, children discover the wonders of art, with classes designed to develop the kids' drawing, sketching, painting, coloring composition, and craft-making abilities. Over at Speedtalk, children are trained to improve and enhance their communication skills, with services such as Speech Improvement and Foreign Language tutorials.

For the kids at heart who love expensive things such as vintage toy cars, cards, and other hobby items, Hobby Shaft is a good place to visit. There's a wide array of hard-to-find toys and collectibles for the big boys and girls.

Banilad Town Centre is a bike- and pet- friendly zone with valet parking for customers' added convenience.  It is located along Gov. Cuenco Ave. and is open daily with a food market on weekends featuring various cuisines and unique eats. The contact numbers are: (032) 345 32 60 - 61; social media accounts: @BTCCebu and  www.fb.com/BTCCebu; website at: www.baniladtowncentre.com. (FREEMAN)