In an age where spending can feel inevitable, one mother has gone viral for proving that entertaining a toddler can be done for free. Meet Caitlin French, 30, who often takes her 19-month-old son Cyrus to the vibrant boardwalk of Ocean City, New Jersey.
During one of their morning adventures, Caitlin stumbled upon an arcade with an adjoining café. Although the arcade wasn’t officially open, they were allowed to take a peek inside. To her surprise, Cyrus was delighted to explore the empty arcade, engaging with the stationary cars and pushing buttons on inactive games.
Caitlin shared her revelation on TikTok (@caitlin.emmaline) on October 14, where her video quickly amassed over 10 million views. In the clip, Cyrus pretends to drive a car game while Caitlin shares her clever tip: “Take your toddlers to the arcade.” She gleefully noted, “He’s having a great time. I’ve spent zero money. He doesn’t know what the hell is going on.”
Caitlin revealed they spent hours there, with the only purchase being her morning coffee. “He just climbs on and off the same stuff and pushes the same buttons,” she said. “It’s almost free!” The clip resonated with many, prompting enthusiastic comments from other parents eager for more frugal tips.
One user humorously noted that their children’s realization about inserting quarters marked the end of their arcade days, while another praised Caitlin for avoiding the frustration of trying to teach a toddler the games. “Just know I think you’re a genius,” the comment read.
However, with virality comes scrutiny, and Caitlin faced criticism from some who accused her of not supporting local businesses. Despite the backlash, she received overwhelming support from fellow parents on the platform, affirming her parenting skills and recognizing Cyrus’s joy.
In response to the naysayers, Caitlin highlighted her husband’s deep ties to the community, emphasizing that they frequently patronize local businesses, even if their arcade visits look a little unconventional. “Whenever we’re on the boardwalk, I get a coffee from that little stand while he has his fun,” she stated.