Looking to meet some other parents in some great local child friendly establishments? Here are some ideas:
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) The museum has a "Science Playground" that is set up for children 5 years old and under. The room is a completely safe environment for children to freely explore and socialize with other children their age. It is also behind closed doors which are often watched by an OMSI employee, (to ensure no one runs out without an adult). They have multiple bathrooms with child sized toilets and changing tables. There is a nursing room and a non-walking infant area. They have live music twice a month which is such a fun experience. Bring along your child's lunch and you can have snacks in the area designated for eating! There is also a great cafeteria style dining area. Note: Bring some back up clothes as the water area will definitely leave your child soaked!
The Vancouver Community Library in Washington (just over the I-5 bridge to vancouver) has an amazing interactive childrens floor. They hold story hours and have a great environment for exploration for babies to young children. You will notice something different every time you go! Clearly there was a LOT of time and planning put into this mini museum space for children. The Library doesn't seem to mind if you bring your strollers and lunches. Have a little picnic in the exploration area and clean up after yourself! They have two bathrooms that have changing tables (but no child sized toilets). note: there is a little coffee shop on the first floor!
Take time to go up the West hills just off highway 26 to check out The Children's Museum and The Zoo.
The Children's Museum is full of fun interactive areas for children to stretch their imagination and socialize with other kids their age. They also have a water area here, so back up clothing is suggested. There is room to bring your stroller around or park it in the coat closet area. They have one child sized toilet in the bathroom. The museum has a great little cafe with child minded and nutritionally conscious meals or snacks.
The Zoo is best to visit in good weather with a comfortable stroller. You will end up walking a lot to see all the animals. They do have quite a few areas that are indoors, if you look at the map closely, which are good places to walk towards in the colder seasons. Check out the venue area for some special events or concerts in the evenings throughout the summer. (Be sure to arrive early because the parking fills up fast!) They have numerous cafes and bathrooms located throughout the zoo. also it is not frowned upon to bring your own lunch! Note: they do offer cheap entrance fees every now and then. It is a good opportunity to save a penny but FYI it is also a rather crowded place when the sun is out. Beware of the parking lot!
The POA Cafe is a hot spot for parents! It is located on N Williams street. They are very child (and parent) friendly. They have a child play area and hold different types of music and story hours (donation based). They do encourage you buy your food for the kids and yourself there, so leave your lunch box in the car. They offer adult beverages and lots of delicious healthy snacks and meals for everyone.