Business Guides Archives – Active Parents https://activeparents.ca/category/business-guides/ Things to Do with Kids in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara Tue, 06 May 2025 21:42:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://activeparents.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/AP-Icon-32x32.png Business Guides Archives – Active Parents https://activeparents.ca/category/business-guides/ 32 32 The Wonderlab at Toys R Us Burlington (Closed) https://activeparents.ca/wonderlab-at-toys-r-us-burlington/ Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=69595 The Toys R Us Burlington location has had a serious glow up and families are going to love visiting even more now! Come along as we take you on a tour of the brand new FREE Wonderlab!

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]]> We are so sad to be the bearers of bad news but this location has closed permanently as of April 2025.

The Toys R Us Burlington location has had a serious glow up and families are going to love visiting even more now! Come along as we take you on a tour of the brand new FREE Wonderlab!

Read More: Find even more free things to do with kids in Burlington here.

Welcome To The Wonderlab!

If you had visited Toys R Us in Burlington in the past couple of years you will have seen their creative section, called Wonderlab. Families with young kids could take part in a variety of creative activities from painting to paper crafts and even sensory play with a cool sand table.

In April 2024, after some top-secret renovations took place, Wonderlab by Toys R Us reopened bigger and better than ever! In additional to the cool creative aspects we told you about above, kids are now invited to explore an awesome, FREE indoor active-play structure that’s sure to add some high-energy fun to your next visit.

As you can see, the new indoor play structure is huge and just begging to be climbed on.

Read More: Find FREE events happening this month.

new indoor climber at wonderlab toys r us

Wonderlab Has Creative Fun, Too!

In addition to this high-energy play space, Wonderlab is still home to the creative, hands-on activities you may have already enjoyed recently. Come ready to get a little messy (think sparkles, paint, glue) and take part in these stations:

  • Paint Wall
  • LEGO® Table
  • Easels
  • Craft Tables
  • Chalkboard
  • Sand Table
creative play section at wonderlab toys r us

Notes For Visiting Wonderlab

  • Come prepared to get messy!
  • Kids’ use of materials is at the discretion of the supervising adult.
  • Strollers must be checked outside Wonderlab.
  • Everyone deserves kindness + respect.
  • Everyone shares the space + tidies up their station.
  • Food + drink are not permitted; however, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.

Read More: Check out these awesome local toys stores when you need to purchase a cool gift for one of your favourite little people.

Where Is The Toys R Us Wonderlab?

Currently, Wonderlab is only at Toys R Us Burlington, located at 3051 Appleby Line, Burlington, ON L7M 0V7.

Read Our Latest Articles

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> Free Things To Do With Kids This Month! https://activeparents.ca/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-month/ https://activeparents.ca/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-month/#comments Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=53543 This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you're looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there's something for every family.

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]]> Hello freebies! This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there’s something for every family and all offer FREE admission. This list highlights free things to do in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Niagara and more!

As parents, we understand the joy of spending quality time with our little ones without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of fantastic and FREE fun to enjoy with your kids. From outdoor escapades to creative indoor activities, we’ve scoured every corner to compile the ultimate collection of fun-filled experiences.

We think this list of family-friendly events that are free of charge will knock your socks off. We don’t often appreciate how many great activities for kids (and parents!) our area has, but there are lots!

Get ready to create family fun and let your imaginations run wild, all while keeping your wallet happy. So, let’s dive right in and discover free things to do with kids that guarantee family bonding!

We have combed our events calendar to bring you all the best FREE kids’ events near you. Use this calendar to find free things to do today or free things to do this weekend!

Free Things To Do With Kids Today, This Weekend and This Month

If you have children to keep busy, you may wonder, “What free activities are available nearby?” We have the answer! Here is a list of all the free events happening this month.

Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

Burlington Lawn Bowling Club Open House

Burlington Lawn Bowling Club 2275 New Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Open House- come on out and try this fun filled sport, get some gentle exercise and fresh air. Meet new friends, bring old ones, every one is welcome. 1:00pm - […]

Free

Mother’s Day Botanical Build

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for an exclusive Mother’s Day event on May 10th. Build your LEGO® Botanicals set together and bond with each other! Plus, enjoy raffle prizes, loot bags, snacks, and refreshments. […]

$55

International Sculpture Day – Family Program

Spencer Smith Park 1400 Lakeshore Road , Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Anchored in the gazebo in Spencer Smith Park, the day will be filled with live music, hands-on arts activities, games, tours, performances and more!

Featured Featured

Police Day with Halton Regional Police Services

Halton Regional Police Services Headquarters 2485 North Service Rd. W., Oakville, Ontario

Rain or shine, the Halton Regional Police Service’s (HRPS) 23rd annual Police Day is taking place on Saturday, May 10 from 12:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M at our Headquarters (2485 […]

Free

Spring Travel Demo Days

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Got some travel on your mind? Join us in store to try out our Travel Activity kit! The perfect travel companion full of activities to keep the little ones engaged. While […]

Lego Mother’s Day Make and Take at Toys R Us

Toys R Us - all stores Ontario, Canada

Bring your builder-kids in-store to create a LEGO® Botanicals Micro Orchid – an evergreen gift for Mother’s Day! In-store ONLY. One per customer, while supplies last.

Sakura Festival

Burlington Performing Arts Centre 440 Locust Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Celebrate the spring arrival of the beautiful Japanese cherry blossoms and Burlington’s 36-year friendship with our twin city, Itabashi, Japan. Features of this free event include:- Performances by Burlington’s Do […]

50th Anniversary Block Party at the Art Gallery of Burlington

Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Get ready to celebrate 50 Years of creativity and community at the AGB’s Block Party! At the Brock Park, DJ Cheffy will be bringing good vibes with an electrifying sets […]

Free

Geoffrey’s Book Club Storytime

Toys R Us - all stores Ontario, Canada

Join Geoffrey + his Toys “R” Us crew to check out his must-read picks of the month + some titles that you won’t find on other booklists.

Magna-Tiles Challenge at Mastermind

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Visit us to participate in a MAGNA-TILES® Master Builders challenge! This week's theme will be available in-store to inspire kids on what to build! Complete the challenge, and photograph your build […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Event Series Spring Stroller Social

Spring Stroller Social

Downtown Oakville Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Join our Spring Stroller Socials for a leisurely walk through the historic streets of Downtown Oakville, followed by coffee and conversation with fellow moms. We'll meet at the clock in […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Scavenger Hunt at Mastermind

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Celebrate Scavenger Hunt Day with us all weekend! Choose your own adventure - 3 scavenger hunt themes to pick from. Complete a challenge and fill out the ballot forms for a chance to win […]

Northeast Oakville Fair

Glenashton Park 1051 Glenashton Dr., Burlington, ON, Canada

The Northeast Oakville Fair is a vibrant spring event packed with fun! Enjoy free entry, exciting inflatables, delicious food trucks, live music, sponsored activities, and awesome giveaways. Bring your family and […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Hamilton Newcomer Day

Hamilton City Hall 71 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, Canada

Friday May 30, 2025Newcomer Day is an annual event held by the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council in May that: Welcomes newcomers to HamiltonHelps them understand and access a wide range […]

Lorcana Train and Trade at Mastermind

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Do you love Disney? If so, join us in-store to learn how to play Disney Lorcana TCG, the immersive trading card game! Wield magic inks and the power of Lorcana to assemble […]

Pokemon Make and Take

Toys R Us - all stores Ontario, Canada

Bring your Poké-fans in-store for a fun building session – participants will be randomly given a Kanto classic: Pikachu, Charmander, Squirtle or Bulbasaur!

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Kid’s Fun Day

250 Bunting Road 250 Bunting Road, St Catharines, ON, Canada

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at our **3rd Annual Kids Fun Day**! Join us for a spectacular celebration of community where excitement awaits around every corner!

Downtown Milton SummerFest

Downtown Milton 251 Main Street East, Suite 103, Milton, Ontario, Canada

Get ready for Milton's biggest street festival! Downtown Milton is happening on Saturday, June 7th from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Don't miss out on a day full of free […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Iron Pour at the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology 900 Woodward Ave, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

The Steam Museum is pleased to welcome the Canadian Society for Contemporary Iron Arts (CSCIA) for a public Iron Pour! Artists will be on site forging pieces in a live […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

All Together Now – In Alll Dershot

Aldershot Farmer's Market Grounds 1016 Waterdown Road, Burlington, Canada

This exciting day features interactive spray painting with Mr. Spray Art, face painting, games and crafts for all ages, and live music to keep the energy high. Enjoy delicious eats […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Free Things To Do With Kids This Month! appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> https://activeparents.ca/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-month/feed/ 1 African Lion Safari: Ontario’s Wildest Safari Adventure https://activeparents.ca/african-lion-safari/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:29:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=31883 Great news for fans of African Lion Safari – they are open for the season and have lots of WILD fun in store for you and your family! We have the inside scoop on what you can expect when you visit this summer, updates on the new African Lion Safari ticket prices plus some tips and important info for visitors.

The post African Lion Safari: Ontario’s Wildest Safari Adventure appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Great news for fans of African Lion Safari – they open Saturday, May 3rd for the 2025 season and have lots of WILD fun in store for you and your family! We have the inside scoop on what you can expect when you visit this summer, updates on the new African Lion Safari ticket prices plus some tips and important info for visitors.

2025 Season highlights

African Lion Safari is Canada’s Original Safari Adventure. They maintain a collection of over 1,000 exotic birds and animals comprised of over 100 different species. What animal is your favourite? Will you giggle at the silly monkeys and lemurs or be entranced watching the long-legged giraffes stroll their habitat?

Drive Through Game Reserve – One of my earliest memories of African Lion Safari was when we saw cars driving through the game reserves getting oh-so-close to the animals roaming around. It was like nothing I had ever seen before! The drive-through is 9 km long and it takes you up close through 7 large Game Reserves featuring Nairobi Sanctuary, Simba Lion Country, Timbavati Lion Country, Wankie Bushland Trail, Rocky Ridge Veldt, Australasia and The Americas. You stay in your vehicle, driving at a very slow pace, and you get to witness animals roam their territory.

Take The “Nature Boy “Train – Hop on the train for a 15-minute ride through 16 hectares of animals and birds. A trip is included in your admission.

Climb Aboard The “African Queen” – Take a boat ride to enjoy a pleasant tour around Water Safari Lake. The informative captain will take you on a cruise around the islands and point out exotic primates including the White-handed gibbon, Ring-tailed lemur, Black-handed Spider monkeys and Robust Black Spider monkeys. Bird dwellers include the Marabou stork and the Pink-backed pelican. The tour is about 15 minutes and is included in your admission.

African Lion Safari’s Waterpark Splash Pad

The splash pad, Misumu Bay Wetplay, is more than just a splash pad at African Lion Safari! As a matter of fact, this may be the highlight of your visit! I have multiple friends who buy season passes strictly for this amazing waterpark. The waterpark is included in your admission and while you’re there cool down under the dumping bucket or slip down the water slides. Enjoy sprinklers and water shooters and fountains, too!

African Lion Safari Tickets 2024

How much is it to go to the Safari? This year, you can purchase your tickets in advance online or at the gate. Limited tickets will be available to buy at the gate, and they recommend pre-purchasing online to secure your spot. What’s more, you save a few dollars when you buy online. Click here to buy your African Lion Safari tickets.

We are always on the lookout for African Lion Safari discount codes for you, therefore watch this spot as this is where we will share them.

2025 ONLINE TICKET PRICES

SPRING (MAY 3-16) FALL (SEPT 2-OCT 12)SUMMER (MAY 17-SEPT 1)
ADULTS (13+ YEARS)$37.95$44.95
CHILD (3-12 YEARS)$24.95$31.95
2 YEARS & UNDERFREEFREE
Plus taxes and fees

2025 GATE SAFARI TICKETS

SPRING (MAY 3-16) FALL (SEPT 2-OCT 12)SUMMER (MAY 17-SEPT 1)
ADULTS (13+ YEARS)$42.95$49.95
CHILD (3-12 YEARS)$29.95$36.95
2 YEARS & UNDERFREEFREE
All African Lion Safari ticket prices are subject to taxes and fees

A Season’s Passport – Is It Worth It?

Season’s Passports are a great idea if you plan on visiting African Lion Safari 3 or more times. A Passport gives you unlimited visits for the season and if you love the looks of Misumu Bay Wetplay, it will be worth it to invest. Season Passport holders also receive 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages at all on-site food service locations (this excludes vending carts). You also enjoy 20% off in the gift shops (excluding sales and batteries). Click here to buy your African Lion Safari Season Passport.

EARLY BIRD RATEREGULAR RATE
available until March 31, 2025as of April 1, 2025
ADULT (13+ YEARS): $104.95ADULT (13-59 YEARS): $114.95
CHILD (3-12 YEARS): $94.95CHILD (3-12 YEARS): $104.95
Plus taxes and fees

If we discover African Lion Safari coupons, coupon codes or deals, we will share them here!

Rhinos at African Lion Safari
Rhinos at African Lion Safari

Tips and FAQs

Is the park Accessible?

Yes, it is! You can see a detailed list of Accessible measures and specific park sections here.

Are Service Animals permitted in the park?

Yes, they are. But please leave pets at home.

Do they accept the Access 2 Card?

“African Lion Safari is pleased to participate in the Easter Seals Access 2 Card Program and offer both an individual with a disability and one support person, 25% off regular gate admission at the Ticketbooth.”

Can I rent a wagon or wheelchair?

Yes, wagon rentals are available for $8 and wheelchairs are $5. Both rentals require a security deposit

What methods of payment are accepted in the park?

VISA, MasterCard, Interac and cash are accepted at all locations throughout the park. 

Are washrooms available? Where are they?

Washrooms are available at Jungle Junction, Mombasa Market Restaurant, Misumu Bay Wetplay and at the end of Tusker Trail. 

More Staycation Ideas You’ll Love

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]]> Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans https://activeparents.ca/springridge-farm/ https://activeparents.ca/springridge-farm/#comments Thu, 17 Apr 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=38430 Springridge Farm is a long-time family favourite place to visit. This is a great place for multi-generations to visit together. The grandparents have as much fun as the kids do! Let us show you why Springridge Farm in Milton is always a great way to spend a day.

The post Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Just announced! Springridge Farm will open on April 17 for their 2025 season. This is an absolute must-do for families with young children. The farm is home to animals, activities and an all-seasons shop full of delicious goodies. Here’s what to expect when you visit Springridge Farm this year.

Read More: Looking for more farm fun? Look right here for animal adventures and fun in the fresh air.

Springridge Farm photos

Welcome To Springridge Farm in Milton

Be sure to scroll through our Springridge Farm Photos to see what to expect. When you want something great to do outdoors, this is it! Getting to Springridge is easy peasy, and they have a ton of free parking. Their lot is gravel, and there is a paved walkway getting you to the farm store and bakery. The grounds of the farmyard are a mix of dirt and wood chips. It may be difficult for some strollers, so keep that in mind.

The Fun Farm Yard is Open!

Springridge Farm’s “Fun Farm Yard” is a long-time family favourite place to visit. This is a great place for multi-generations to visit together. The grandparents have as much fun as the kids do!

The farm is not asking for visits to be pre-booked, you can pay for your visit on a first-come, first-serve basis. Admission for everyone over 2 years old is $14 on holidays and weekends and $10 a person on weekdays. This gets you full access to the farm, which includes:

  • spider web climber
  • tube slides
  • giant sandbox
  • straw play
  • goat mountain
  • escarpment lookout
  • farm animals
  • antique tractors
  • singing chicken show
  • pedal tractors & farm hoppers
  • tractor-drawn wagon ride
  • big red Adirondack chairs for parents to sit and relax while children are enjoying the fun farm
  • NEW singing tractor
  • NEW crank steam tractor

Don’t forget a camera because there are a ton of photo ops with cutouts, animal statues and of course the big red Muskoka chair.

Springridge Farm in Milton

Are There Animals At Springridge Farm?

Oh yeah, there are! Springridge is home to goats, rabbits and chickens. The goats have a very cool enclosure with a spiral staircase and their own red barn. The rabbits are sooooo soft and those silly chicks are hilarious to watch and feed. Bring your animal lover to visit.

Bring a few quarters so you can buy some feed for the animals.

Reader question: Are pets/dogs allowed at Springridge Farm? Service dogs are welcome, but all other pets should stay home for this trip.

Animal farms in Milton

goat pen at Springridge Farm
The goats have a pretty swanky pen at Springridge Farm

what else is there to do?

In addition to the animals at the farms, Springridge is home to some great kid-friendly activities. At the top of Victoria’s must-do list was riding the pedal tractors. Located in a big open-air barn with a paved floor, kids can hop on and off brightly coloured tractors and peddle around at high speeds (well, as fast as they can pump their legs!).

Also, hop on the Farm Hoppers – those inflatable animals that kids sit on and bounce around on. Then wander over to the giant pipe slides and little to the vibrating giggles and kids of all ages make their way down over the corrugated ride. Make time in your visit to watch the singing chicken show, too. Lots of laughs!

Wagon Rides and Escarpment Lookout

A visit to the farm wouldn’t be complete without a ride in their big, red wagon. Rides are included in your admission and run hourly starting at 10:30 am until 4:30 pm on weekdays, and on weekends the tractor runs continuously from 10 am till 4 pm. The ride is non-stop and takes about 15 minutes. You’ll get a tour of the farm and some beautiful views of the escarpment.

Speaking of the views. make to make the trek up to the Escarpment Lookout. It’s a workout, but you won’t regret it! On a clear day, you can see the CN Tower!

tips for visiting Springridge farm

  • Remember your camera – so many cute photo opportunities
  • Bring some quarters so you can get some animal feed for the goats, rabbits and chickens
  • Food is available to purchase on-site, so don’t bring your own to the farm. Snack in the car if you need to
  • Pack your hand sanitiser as there is a lot to touch
  • Lots of tables and seating
  • Plan to be here for a few hours, and for kids to have a blast!

Is Springridge Farm Open Today?

Springridge Farm will open on April 17 for the season. The farm is open from early spring through to Christmas Eve. Springridge Farm hours are 9 am to 5 pm daily, and they are located 7256 Bell School Line in Milton, Ontario.

milton farm near me

Take a Video Tour of Springridge!

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> https://activeparents.ca/springridge-farm/feed/ 1 Gage Park Greenhouse: Tropical Oasis in The Big City https://activeparents.ca/gage-park-greenhouse/ Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=46106 The Greenhouse is located inside the grounds of Gage Park and playground and creates a warm, tropical oasis right in the heart of The Steel City. The Gage Park Greenhouse […]

The post Gage Park Greenhouse: Tropical Oasis in The Big City appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> The Greenhouse is located inside the grounds of Gage Park and playground and creates a warm, tropical oasis right in the heart of The Steel City. The Gage Park Greenhouse is one of our favourite free things to do in Hamilton because the kids and adults alike love visiting.

CLOSURE NOTICE
The Tropical Greenhouse will be closed to the public from March 31 to April 21, 2025.

The greenhouse is 14,000 square feet and is home to subtropical plants, dozens of palms, and unique species like the corpse flower. It is named that because its scent is similar to that of a rotting corpse (no thank you!). You can see photos and videos of the Gage Park corpse flower here.

Beautiful plants and tree at gage park greenhouse

two girls looking for fish and turtles at gage park greenhouse

What You’ll See At The Gage Park Greenhouse

Expect to spend about 30 minutes to 1 hour here, depending on how much your kids like plants! Be sure to direct their attention to the ponds. Why? Because that is where they’ll catch a glimpse of turtles and fish! The turtles are our absolute favourite part of the greenhouse. You can catch them swimming or catching some sun on one of the rocks. The large and small fish love to make their way from one end of the pond to the other. The pond is large and spans almost the entire length of the greenhouse. Keep your ears perked up for the sounds of a waterfall, too!

If you like tropical climates in the city, you’ll also love the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory.

Beautiful plants and tree at gage park greenhouse

hamilton greenhouse is home to some turtles

The Hamilton Mum Show is Back This Fall

The Hamilton Mum Show at Gage Park Greenhouse is a dazzling display of nature’s vibrant colours and captivating beauty. Every autumn, the greenhouse transforms into a floral wonderland, showcasing a wide variety of chrysanthemums in all their glory. The Mum Show is attended by visitors of all ages, and they come from outside tot city to immerse themselves in thousands of meticulously arranged blooms.

As you step inside, you are greeted by an explosion of vivid hues and fragrant scents. The designs, ranging from traditional to contemporary, highlight the versatility and artistry of these beloved flowers. Each exhibit tells a unique story, capturing the imagination and inspiring awe.

The Hamilton Greenhouse celebrates the beauty of nature while promoting horticultural excellence and fostering a sense of community. It provides a perfect opportunity to appreciate the wonders of autumn and indulge in the peaceful oasis created by the greenhouse. Visitors can explore the exhibits, learn about different chrysanthemum varieties, and gain inspiration for their own gardens.

The Hamilton Mum Show at Gage Park Greenhouse is a must-see event for nature lovers, gardening enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a delightful escape into a world of floral splendour.

Gage Park Amenities

  • 30 hectare multi-use park
  • rose garden
  • pathways and walkways
  • playground
  • spray pad
  • The Hamilton Children’s Museum (check out more family friendly museums)
  • washroom
  • bandshell

Gage Park Greenhouse Hours and Admission

The Hamilton Greenhouse is located at 1000 Main Street in Hamilton, Ontario. It’s both wheelchair and stroller-friendly, with some seating options throughout. Parking is free and so is admission on non-event days. No pets, please. Avoid disappointment by visiting their website to make sure today isn’t a day they are closed for a private function. hamilton.ca/attractions/culture/gage-park-greenhouse

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Gage Park Greenhouse: Tropical Oasis in The Big City appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Driving Schools to Get Your Teenager Driving https://activeparents.ca/driving-schools-to-get-your-teenager-driving/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:00:11 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=69955 In this list, we've curated a selection of reputable driving schools that cater to the needs of both new learners and those looking to refine their skills.

The post Driving Schools to Get Your Teenager Driving appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> A Parent’s Guide to Driving Schools in Halton and Hamilton, Ontario. As parents ourselves, we understand the importance of finding the right driving school for our teenage drivers. In this list, we’ve curated a selection of reputable driving schools that cater to the needs of both new learners and those looking to refine their skills. Join us as we navigate through the options available, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for our young drivers.

driving schools drivers ed learn to drive driving instructors

7 Drivers Ed Providers to Get Your Teenager Driving

If you have a 16 year old in your home they may be itching to get behind the wheel and driving the family vehicle.  Ontario has a 2-step process.  After completing the written test, many families turn to approved driving instructors for in class and in car driving lessons, but where to turn?

This is just a short list of program providers, so if you’re looking for even more options, click here for Government of Ontario approved driving schools.

Tips From A Parent When Picking A Driving School

My oldest can now drive, and it’s the best. But it was a bumpy road to get here. Driving school is expensive and time consuming, especially for teens eager to get out on the road.

My first tip is to DO YOUR RESEARCH when it comes to choosing a driving program. Talk to people who have used the service and ask if they remember their instructor’s name. Instructors make all the difference, and a bad one can ruin your time in the car. Yes, they should all be teaching the same skills, but they’re not unfortunately. We had to navigate some murky waters and I had to speak up more than once when we were disappointed in the service we were getting.

Secondly, speak up when something is off. Many centre owners don’t know what happens in class or in the car, and they would (probably) appreciate knowing if an employee is harming their reputation with poor service. Communicate with your kids regarding what to expect from their lessons and what to question. This is a big responsibility!

Driving Schools in Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville and Milton

Canadian Standard Driving School Inc
Canadian Standard Driving School is dedicated to providing high-quality driver education to students of all ages and skill levels. Known for a commitment to safety.
Drive Wise
Drive Wise is a driving school in Burlington.  They offer a Start Safe plan with 20 hours of in class and 10 hours of in car instruction and a Deluxe Start Safe program with 20 hours of in class and 14 hours of in car instruction.
G1G2 Driving School
G1G2 has offices in Burlington, Hamilton, Milton, Oakville, Cambridge and Waterdown.  
Sam's Driving School
Sam’s is a driving school with locations in Burlington.  They offer classes for beginner drivers and senior drivers.
StepIn Driving School
Welcome to STEP IN DRIVING SCHOOL, the premier driving school in Brampton dedicated to helping you become a safe, confident, and skilled driver.
Ultimate Drivers
Ultimate Drivers has 22 locations across Ontario, including: Burlington, Cambridge, Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener, Milton, Mississauga, Oakville and Niagara Falls.  They offer programs for the beginner driver, advanced driver, and for driver improvement and winter driving.
Universal Driving
Universal is in Burlington and Hamilton.  They offer a beginner driver course, refresher course and test prep.  If you sign up for the full course the month you were born they offer a $15 birthday discount.
Yellow Umbrella Driving School
Yellow Umbrella caters to learners with anxiety, ADHD, Asperger’s and high functioning Autism with small classes with no more than 8 students.  This driving school focuses on reducing driver anxiety and teaching defensive driving skills.  They offer a beginner course and a premium beginner course, including test prep, use of a vehicle for the road test, guaranteed pass and a G refresh.
Young Drivers of Canada
Young Drivers has locations across Canada and Ontario.  Conveniently there are offices in: Burlington, Cambridge, Dundas, Georgetown, Grimsby, Guelph, Hamilton, and Kitchener. In addition, find locations in Milton, Niagara Falls, North York, Oakville, St. Catharines, Waterdown, and Waterloo.  There are a variety of packages with online, in person, in car and road test package components. Individual lessons and packages available.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Driving Schools to Get Your Teenager Driving appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> House and Home Services Directory https://activeparents.ca/house-and-home-services-directory/ Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:08:36 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=76558 Are you looking for trusted home services in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara? Whether you’re planning a renovation, searching for an expert home designer, or need a reliable realtor, our directory […]

The post House and Home Services Directory appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Are you looking for trusted home services in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara? Whether you’re planning a renovation, searching for an expert home designer, or need a reliable realtor, our directory connects you with the best local professionals. From contractors and interior designers to landscapers and real estate agents, we make it easy to find the right experts for your next project. Save time and stress by choosing from top-rated home service providers in your area. Explore our House and Home Services Directory today and bring your vision to life with confidence!

Click here to add your business to our Business Directory

Home Services Directory

All Seasons Handyman
All Seasons Handyman provides affordable home renovations, home repairs, and property management. We serve the Greater Toronto, Hamilton, and surrounding areas.
Clutter Relief Services
We specialize in downsizing seniors, clearing estates and move management as well as whole home decluttering projects and doing Maxsold auctions.
Playcation Travel Ltd.
A travel agency that specializes in all things family fun! Contact the professionals to plan your best family adventures including Disney Destinations, Cruises and more!
Sharon Patton
What Makes Sharon Different? Sharon's been through the mortgage process herself as a first-time homebuyer, an experienced homeowner, and as a landlord, giving her a unique understanding of home finance through different stages of life. This understanding, coupled with sharp professional skills and decades of experience, have made Sharon an invaluable asset to home buyers. As a working mom and a single parent who plays an active role in her community, Sharon understands the demands of a busy household. Diamond and Platinum Readers' Choice Award winner for the Burlington Post. Voted #1 Mortgage Professional in Burlington.
wellnested Living
Design, organization and DIY specialists looking to simplify the nesting process. 

Disclaimer: Active Parents provides this directory as an informational resource only. We do not endorse, guarantee, or verify the quality of the businesses listed. It is the responsibility of each individual to conduct their own research, read reviews, and verify credentials before hiring any home service provider. Active Parents is not liable for any experiences, transactions, or agreements made between users and listed businesses.

Looking for more local business directories?

The post House and Home Services Directory appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> 40+ Things To Do on a Rainy Day https://activeparents.ca/rainy-day-activities/ https://activeparents.ca/rainy-day-activities/#respond Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000 http://burlingtonparents.com/?p=1156 Rain showers bring spring flowers, right? So, while you're dealing with the damp weather and waiting for spring flowers, choose a rainy day activity (or two) from our list and keep boredom at bay! Plus a list of all the indoor events today and coming up!

The post 40+ Things To Do on a Rainy Day appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Rainy days don’t have to put a damper on family fun in the Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara regions. Whether you’re seeking indoor adventures or cozy activities, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. From interactive museums and indoor indoor activities to creative workshops and educational exhibits, these regions offer a wealth of options when the weather keeps you indoors. Embrace the opportunity to explore, learn, and bond with your little ones, rain or shine!

indoor activities and things to do on a rainy day in hamilton burlington oakville

 40+ indoor activities For a Rainy Day

Play at an Indoor Playground

Indoor playgrounds are the popular group when it rains (or freezes) out. They offer a plethora of high-energy ways to help kids be active from giant tube slides to ball pits to climbing obstacles. If you’re looking for a great curated list of area indoor play centres and trampoline parks in Halton or indoor play centers and trampoline parks in Hamilton and Niagara, you know we can help!

Read our Feature articles:

Catch a Family Flick

Is there a better rainy day indoor activity than watching movies? I think not. Cineplex SilverCity Theatres have “Stars and Strollers” showtimes weekly. Guests and their kiddos watch a new release film with your little ones. With a little more light, lower sound, and $2 off the regular admission, it’s a great deal! Visit CineStarz on Brant Street or Film.ca in Oakville for second run shows at a deeply discounted price. Don’t worry, the popcorn is just as delicious as the larger theaters! And don’t miss out on Oakville’s Movies for Mommies where the sound is lower, the lights are a little brighter, to make your movie-with-baby date all the more enjoyable.

We’ve collected some of the best family-friendly children’s museums and galleries in our region. Whether you want to know more about life in pioneer and early industrial times, famous sports personalities, appreciate works of art, dabble in hands-on experiments and science, planes, trains, automobiles and even secret passages, these family destinations will help you do just that. 

Read our Feature articles:

Indoor Fun For Sports Fans

Looking for some high-energy competitive fun for the whole family? Maybe something quieter and suited to all ages? We got you! Our curated guides to rainy day activities Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara and Oakville will connect you with the best hands-on entertainment around!

Stores Worth Visiting: Toys Stores, Pet Stores and More!

Take a wander through some retailers who cater to kids and families. Shop at a local toy store from our list here.

Toy Stores – Every toy ever made seems to be at the toy store. Enjoy some time in every aisle checking out new toys and games, and adding to your child’s wish list. Just remember, you may not get out without making a purchase.

Pet Stores – Little animal lovers will enjoy walking through the aquarium section to check out the aquatic and bug life, and through the cat adoption centre, too. They may even get to pet or feed an animal friend!

Have a Sweet Treat – Whether you want ice cream, doughnuts or french fries, our lists of the best places to get each will help!

Malls – The stay at home parents’ quintessential rainy day activity, and for a good reason. Temperature controlled, ample coffee shops, and you can always find a sale and a friend to stroll with. Bring some loonies to Burlington Mall and the kids can ride the coin-operated rides. And both Oakville Place and the Milton Mall has been known to host kids events as well.

Visit IKEA – It’s Swedish For Fun!

I cannot tell you how excited my youngest was when she was finally tall enough for the Burlington IKEA’s Smōlland (that’s the name of their supervised kids area). Their kid’s centre is fabulous and free, but so is their kid’ department with all of the toys out on display. A great time to get some gift ideas! Plus, they IKEA has great deals on kids meals, too!

Ontario EarlyON Centres

The Ontario EarlyON Centres (formerly known as Early Years Centres) saved my sanity in those early days/months/years of parenthood. I played with my new baby, met new parents who I still connect with today, and kept going until my kids were in school full time. Whether it’s for a drop in play time or one of their organized pre-registered programs like Mother Goose, we are so fortunate to have the ROCK Ontario Early Years Centres. Click the link to find the centre closest to you.

Get Thrifty

Fancy yourself a DIYer? Love up-cycling? Or maybe you just like checking out trash-turned-treasures? Pop in and see if you can score an original Rubik’s Cube, Malibu Barbie, or some Muppet Show VHS tapes. Plus board games and books are a steal. Visit a local thrift store or charity shop and score a great deal. Your donations and purchases help our community.

Hop A Ride On Public Transit

Hop on the city bus and tour around Burlington, Oakville, Waterdown, or Milton. Transit is fast, reliable, and clean, and makes a great sightseeing bus. Plan your tour through Burlington , Milton, Oakville, or Hamilton. This was always one of our favourite rainy day activities in Burlington!

Stay Home: More Indoor Activities To Pass The Time

Things To Do Indoors
Easy Crafts and Experiments For Kids
20 Things To Do With Toddlers At Home
3 Indoor Treasure Hunts For Every Age

Upcoming Indoor Events From Our Calendar

Beyond these fantastic indoor destinations, there are always exciting events happening throughout Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara that make rainy days even more fun. From hands-on workshops and live performances to seasonal exhibits and special family-friendly activities, there’s something new to discover each week. Check out these upcoming indoor events to keep your little ones entertained while staying warm and dry!

Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Quiet Hour at Dundas Museum and Archives

Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park St. West, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

From 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for our "Quiet Hour", without large groups or classes, offering a more comfortable environment to […]

Stars and Strollers Oakville

Cineplex Cinemas Oakville and VIP 3531 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Quiet Hour at Dundas Museum and Archives

Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park St. West, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

From 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for our "Quiet Hour", without large groups or classes, offering a more comfortable environment to […]

Stars and Strollers Oakville

Cineplex Cinemas Oakville and VIP 3531 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Quiet Hour at Dundas Museum and Archives

Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park St. West, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

From 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for our "Quiet Hour", without large groups or classes, offering a more comfortable environment to […]

Stars and Strollers Oakville

Cineplex Cinemas Oakville and VIP 3531 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Quiet Hour at Dundas Museum and Archives

Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park St. West, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

From 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for our "Quiet Hour", without large groups or classes, offering a more comfortable environment to […]

Stars and Strollers Oakville

Cineplex Cinemas Oakville and VIP 3531 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Quiet Hour at Dundas Museum and Archives

Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park St. West, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

From 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for our "Quiet Hour", without large groups or classes, offering a more comfortable environment to […]

Stars and Strollers Oakville

Cineplex Cinemas Oakville and VIP 3531 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Quiet Hour at Dundas Museum and Archives

Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park St. West, Dundas, Ontario, Canada

From 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for our "Quiet Hour", without large groups or classes, offering a more comfortable environment to […]

Stars and Strollers Oakville

Cineplex Cinemas Oakville and VIP 3531 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Stars and Strollers Burlington

SilverCity Brant Street 1250 Brant Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Escape to watch new releases in a baby-friendly environment with soft lighting, reduced volume and other amenities.  Change tables, bottle warmers and stroller parking available at select locations. New films […]

Read Our Latest Articles

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post 40+ Things To Do on a Rainy Day appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> https://activeparents.ca/rainy-day-activities/feed/ 0 Mind-Body Wellness Guide: Halton, Hamilton and Niagara https://activeparents.ca/mind-body-wellness-guide-halton-hamilton-and-niagara/ Wed, 19 Mar 2025 01:18:24 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=76467 Welcome to the Mind-Body Wellness Guide, your go-to directory for discovering holistic health practitioners in Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara. Whether you're looking for natural health solutions, integrative wellness experts, or mind-body healing, our guide connects you with trusted professionals.

The post Mind-Body Wellness Guide: Halton, Hamilton and Niagara appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Welcome to the Mind-Body Wellness Guide, your go-to directory for discovering holistic health practitioners in Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara. Whether you’re looking for natural health solutions, integrative wellness experts, or mind-body healing, our guide connects you with trusted professionals.

Find naturopaths, chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, mental health counselors, and more—all dedicated to your well-being. Prioritizing whole health, we help you explore alternative medicine, wellness coaching, and therapeutic services close to home. Start your journey toward better health today with our curated list of local wellness experts.

Click here to add your business to our Business Directory
Mind-Body Health Wellness Guide: Halton, Hamilton and Niagara

Mind-Body Health & Wellness Guide

Now What Support Services Camps
Would your child thrive in a small, low-ratio, supported summer camp setting?  Check out NowWhat Supports in downtown Ancaster.  The focus here is on building and practicing social, emotional, executive function, and distress tolerance skills for life with our social workers and therapeutic coaches in a joyful, relaxed environment that champions ‘minds of all kinds’.  An ideal environment for elementary aged kids who manage ADHD, ASD or anxiety, we celebrate the super-feelers and the busy bodies - or those who simply do better in smaller groups. Balanced, kid-friendly lunches and snacks are included (you deserve a break from packing lunches!), and we immerse ourselves in nature, basing largely outdoors in the beautiful shaded back yard.  In the mornings we work through fun themed rotations, learning a therapeutic skill or concept.  In the afternoons we take the show on the road and head out into the local community on walking trips to practice our […]
Empower Counselling Services
25 years of experience supporting individuals, couples and families who are struggling with Mental Health, Addictions, Trauma, Life transitions and everything in between.
Mom the Manager
Michelle McVittie is a child life specialist and parenting coach specializing in strong-willed children, ADHD, anxiety and parenting teens. Affordable programs and coaching.
New Leaf Literacy and ADHD Coaching
Literacy coaching and ADHD/Executive Functioning Skills coaching services are offered privately throughout the year (1-to-1) and as camps during March Break and the summer.
Simply Family Solutions
Parenting coach and mentor as well as family mediator. Supporting families through all that life has to throw at them. It takes a village. “After the storm, the sun will shine”.
The Love Seed Consulting
We specialize in offering personalized coaching services and workshops tailored to the unique needs of schools, educators, and parents.

Disclaimer: The Mind-Body Wellness Guide is a directory of practitioners for informational purposes only. Inclusion in this guide does not imply endorsement, recommendation, or verification by Active Parents. We encourage individuals to conduct their own independent research, ask questions, and consult qualified professionals before making any health or wellness decisions. Active Parents is not responsible for the quality of services provided by any listed business or practitioner.

More Helpful Guides That Parents Turn To

The post Mind-Body Wellness Guide: Halton, Hamilton and Niagara appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Bike Mechanics: Expert Assistance in Hamilton and Burlington https://activeparents.ca/local-bike-mechanics/ Wed, 12 Mar 2025 17:57:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=58264 Every summer, parents and kids need bike tune-ups. If you’re looking for bike mechanics in Burlington or bike mechanics in Hamilton, we can help! We asked our community who they […]

The post Bike Mechanics: Expert Assistance in Hamilton and Burlington appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Every summer, parents and kids need bike tune-ups. If you’re looking for bike mechanics in Burlington or bike mechanics in Hamilton, we can help! We asked our community who they turn to to fix their wheel, and they shared their top recommendations.

Bicycles are important in our lives because they provide a way for kids and adults to travel, exercise, and have fun. But, like any other vehicle, bikes need to be taken care of and fixed sometimes to keep them working well. When your wheels need an overhaul, trust a local bike mechanic. They have unique skills and can help you in many ways.

The Benefits of Local Bicycle Mechanics

  1. Expertise and Experience: Local bike mechanics with many years of experience have learned a ton about different kinds of bikes. They can provide preventative maintenance and bike tuneups to keep your wheels rolling all summer. They’re experts who ensure your bike is safe and gets the attention it needs.
  2. Personalized Service: Local bike mechanics take the time to understand what you want and how you like to ride. They will make time for you and your bike service needs. They give you personalized help and ensure your bike gets serviced the way you want it, making your biking experience even better.
  3. Support Local Businesses: When you choose a local mechanic for your bicycle tuneup, you’re helping your community grow and stay strong. Supporting local businesses is good for the local economy and creates job opportunities. It also makes your community proud. Local mechanics often care more about quality than quantity, so they make sure you get top-notch service.

Where to Find Local Bike Mechanics:

  1. Independent Bicycle Shops: Independent bike shops are a hub for cycling enthusiasts, offering a wide range of services, including repairs, bike maintenance, and fittings. These shops usually have experienced mechanics on staff who can handle all aspects of bicycle care.
  2. Community Co-ops: Community co-ops are collaborative spaces where cyclists come together to share knowledge, tools, and resources. They often have skilled mechanics who provide assistance and guidance to fellow riders. Joining a co-op not only offers repair services but also provides opportunities to learn and connect with other cyclists.

We asked our Facebook community who they trust with their bicycle maintenance and they gave us some great options for Hamilton bike mechanics and Burlington bike mechanics.

Great Paths For Cycling

Ride your bikes along the Hamilton waterfront and this cool playground

Biking across Burlington will have you crossing along two playgrounds at Sherwood Forest Park

Have you tested the Dirt Jumps at Nelson Park? Adventurous kids will love them!

Bike Mechanics in Burlington Bike Mechanics in Hamilton

Bike Mechanics in Hamilton

New Hope Community Bike Shop is a learning hub for building and repairing bikes, offering safe cycling education, providing access to affordable transportation, and fostering a rich and inclusive cycling community. They are one of the top recommended bike mechanics in Hamilton according to our audience of parents. They are a registered charity offering well-priced service and support. If you have a bike your kids have outgrown, New Hope also accepts bike and parts donations.

Freewheel Cycle is located in Dundas, Ontario. Freewheel staff will offer you quoted pricing and timelines for your repair while you wait. If you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, Freewheel Cycle also sells new bikes.

Sports Swappers was recommended for their service and affordability when it comes to maintenance and also purchase a used bicycle. They’re most active in their Facebook group.

Bicycle Works in Waterdown is a local bike shop that also provides service and repairs. Their friendly, professionally trained technicians will assess your bike’s needs and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Bike Mechanics in Burlington

Rock and Road Cycle is a local bike shop that offers the quality of service and attention to detail that only a small shop can. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, commuter, family rider, triathlete or trail rider, they can keep you riding.

Rolling Horse is a non-profit bicycle shop offering full-service and refurbished bike sales. They also host community outreach programs including Mechanic Training, Youth Drop-Ins, Community Clinics, and more! They always accept bike donations during their open hours. Rolling Horse is one of the top recommended bike mechanics in Burlington according to our audience of parents.

While it might be tempting to tackle bicycle repairs on your own or opt for convenience at big-box stores, using a local bike mechanic has several benefits. Their expertise, personalized service, and contribution to the local community make them an ideal choice for maintaining and repairing your beloved bicycle. Whether you visit independent bike shops, community co-ops, or explore online directories, prioritize local bike mechanics to ensure the longevity and performance of your two-wheeled companion.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Bike Mechanics: Expert Assistance in Hamilton and Burlington appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Triple C Farm: Get Up Close With Adorable Farm Animals https://activeparents.ca/triple-c-farm/ https://activeparents.ca/triple-c-farm/#comments Sun, 02 Mar 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=33531 Triple C Farm is one of our most recommended farms in Hamilton to visit. If you’ve got little kids who love visiting petting zoos, or adults who love a great cause, Triple C Farm is the place to be.

The post Triple C Farm: Get Up Close With Adorable Farm Animals appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Triple C Farm is one of our most recommended farms in Hamilton to visit. If you’ve got little kids who love visiting petting zoos, or adults who love a great cause, Triple C Farm is the place to be.

Find more animal adventures…

Goats in the goat enclosure at Triple C

Welcome to Triple C Farm in Ancaster

I’ve yet to meet a family who hasn’t enjoyed their visit to Triple C Farm. The staff – a family of 5 who run the show – are kind and compassionate. Parents, Trisha and Pascal, along with their three sons purchased the farm in 2013. All three boys are autistic, and the family knew this farm would be a great location for the boys to learn the skills needed to become productive adults.

Triple C Farm is now a fully-functioning animal sanctuary. They also run volunteer programs for adults with developmental disabilities.

petting zoo alpacas in hamilton

Visiting Triple C Farm

Pre-booking your visit online is a requirement for visiting the Ancaster farm, they are not currently taking drop-ins. Visitors’ numbers are kept small to allow for a peaceful visit.

You can pre-book your visit online using the link at the bottom of this article. Your visit will be 1 hour and the cost is $15 to book your spot, plus $5 per person cash when you arrive. All of the money from admission fees goes to supporting the nutritional and medical needs of the rescued animals.

Come dressed to get a little messy – this is a fully-functioning farm after all! Pants may get muddy and footwear will come in contact with everything you’d find in an animal pen. I always wear rubber boots and jeans that I can easily wash. The farm has a wash station and sanitizer to use.

goat at petting zoo triple c farm

What To See And Do At Triple C Farm in Ancaster

If you’re looking for a great petting zoo near you, you are in luck – sort of. Triple C is more than a petting zoo, they are an animal sanctuary. Almost all of their animals are approachable and friendly, and Tricia or Pascal will let you know who needs their space on the day you visit.

You will have full access to the goat/alpaca/etc. enclosure, plus you can roam the farm and meet a cornucopia of other farm friends like pigs, horses, goats, cows and sheep. Plus, some more unique animals like alpacas, ducks, bunnies and more.

All throughout the year, Triple C Farm welcomes many new furry family members including rabbits, pigs, donkeys, goats and horses! Many of the animals are available for “adoption” meaning you get to be the animal’s owner as they live at the farm. You can visit, feed, and more. Every adoption helps keep the farm animals healthy and fed and helps offset the price of any veterinary care they need.

One of the reasons I love Triple C is that visitors don’t feed the animal, so the animals aren’t clamouring to get at you. You’re welcomed into their space and able to walk around and enjoy their company. You can pet them and even hold some of the furry residents. The volunteers there will show you the correct way to hold a baby goat if you visit in the springtime.

Be sure to take some time at the end to feed the chickens and ducks with the farm-provided feed. They are a few of the animals on the farm you can feed, and boy is it fun!

Addison correctly holding a triple c farm baby goat

Events and Experiences at Triple C

Add Goat Yoga and Goat Movie Nights to your bucket list because you can do both here at this Hamilton farm. Triple C Farm events and so much fun. Their events calendar is always full of fun ways to be at the farm.

One of the most popular farm offers is the mobile farm experience. Bring gentle petting zoo animals to your school, daycare, home or seniors home and watch faces light up!

Admission to Triple C

Visits are by appointment only – walk-ins will not be accepted. Booking Fee:

  • To secure your booking, a $15 (taxes included) non-refundable booking fee is required.
  • Additionally, we ask for a $5 per person contribution to the farm upon arrival. This contribution goes towards feeding the animals, their vet bills, etc. Payment can be made by debit, credit, or cash.

Visit Triple C Farm at 500 Carluke Road West in Ancaster, Ontario. Their website is triplecfarm.ca

Amber feeding chickens at triple c farm in ancaster

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/triple-c-farm/feed/ 1 High-Energy Excitement at Activate Burlington https://activeparents.ca/activate-burlington/ Thu, 27 Feb 2025 20:55:24 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=42989 Activate in Burlington will have the entire family on the edge of their seats with excitement and energy!

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]]> Burlington has a very cool entertainment facility called Activate and we are so excited to tell you about it! It’s a favourite for families who love excitement and high energy fun.

From their website:
“Activate is the world’s first active gaming facility, where you’ll play arcade-style games by actually jumping, climbing, and dodging. You and your group of 3-5 will move freely between eleven interactive rooms, choosing games that challenge your agility, problem-solving, and speed. Dive through lasers. Climb glowing walls. Only the best can conquer them all. Think you have what it takes?”

Read More: Indoor Places To Visit

Visiting Activate in Burlington

Activate Burlington is a large, indoor entertainment facility for players ages 10 and older. The games are challenging and built with adults in mind. We had 2 adults and 2 kids, ages 10 and 12 with us and they tackled the games with gusto. We had a group of four, and Activate recommends 3-5 people per game. 2 can play, but it will be more challenging. Your visit is 75 minutes and you can choose your timeslot through their online booking system. You can have up to 10 in your booking time, but you’ll be split into groups of up to 5 to provide the best playing experience.

The Game Rooms

At Activate, you get access to all 9 rooms of gameplay, and you can play them more than once as long as time permits. I loved that the game rooms included both cooperative and competitive challenges because sometimes it’s fun to kick some butt! The rooms we each very different ad put our skills to the test. My kids loved the “Climb”, the room of light-up rock-climbing grips that change colour from green to red as you scale your way around the room. Stay off the red ones! There is also another level where the grips light up and you need to grab them whack-a-mole style!

“Grid” was a full energy mission to get from side to side without touching the lit tiles on the floor. Needless to say, I was the worst player on our team here, haha! But we laughed so much that I didn’t mind. This room has 3 variations of gameplay you can try. We had so much fun in all of the rooms, but my kids liked “Hoops” – a basketball shooting mission, and “Laser” the most.

“Laser” made you feel like you were creeping through a top-secret vault protected by motion-activated laser beams. It was another laugh-fest that made us sweaty and wide-eyed. This one was hard but so exciting. You can see all of the rooms at Active Burlington here.

Read More: More Things To Do With Your Tweens and Teens

Tips For Your Visit to Activate Burlington

Book your visit online before to make sure you get a spot. Walk-ins are permitted, but you may not get your preferred time. Bring a small group with you, and don’t worry about talent or skill because everyone will have a great time. This was an excellent outing for my tween and teen, and my husband (who likes being home) loved it too.

There are lockers to hold your coats/bags, etc. because you definitely want your hands free and to make movement easy. Short sleeves were good because you want easy access to your Activate wristband because that is what grants you access to the rooms, and tracks your scores. Think of it as a gym class: rubber-soled shoes, long hair tied back.

Outside of each room, and throughout the facility there was hand sanitizer, and we found it to be very clean.

Price: $28 per person, plus taxes. Click here to book online.

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]]> Children’s Museums and Galleries Families Love https://activeparents.ca/kid-friendly-museums-and-galleries/ https://activeparents.ca/kid-friendly-museums-and-galleries/#comments Tue, 25 Feb 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=41941 Discover top family-friendly museums in our area. Explore pioneer life, famous sports figures, art, science experiments, and hidden passages. Perfect for hands-on learning and fun!

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]]> We’ve collected some of the best family-friendly children’s museums and galleries in our region. Whether you want to know more about life in pioneer and early industrial times, famous sports personalities, appreciate works of art, dabble in hands-on experiments and science, planes, trains, automobiles and even secret passages, these family destinations will help you do just that. 

Some of these destinations are seasonal and we’ve noted that in their write ups below.

Children’s Museums and Galleries in Oakville

Oakville Museum The historic buildings of Erchless Estate were once home to Oakville’s founding family, The Chisholms, but are now the setting for Oakville’s community museum. Guided tours are available of the building and grounds and the museum is home to ever-changing exhibits. Admission is by donation. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. 

Oakville Galleries – Housed in two spaces in downtown Oakville there are travelling exhibitions as well as a permanent collection.

Milton Family-Friendly Museums and Galleries

Halton County Radial Railway – See the collection of historic streetcars, trains, and buses, then experience life on the rails on the 2km full-sized electrical railway. Look out for their very popular Halloween and Christmas events to start back up! Admission is $24 for adults, $22 for seniors, $18 for ages 10-17, $12 for 4-9 and kids under 4 are free. The museum is opening for the season is in May. You can read all about our visit to the HCRR here.

image courtesy of HCRY.org

Burlington Children’s Museums and Art Galleries

Ireland house was occupied by the Ireland family between 1835 and 1985 and shows what life was like in the 1850s, 1890s, and 1920s. Home of the traditional Victorian Christmas event, there are often special days or programs to look out for.

Art Gallery of Burlington is located in the downtown neighbourhood. It is free to visit any of the exhibits and galleries, but donations are greatly appreciated. The exhibits rotate throughout the year, so visiting is always a great idea. Their Family Studio is home to free art classes throughout the year as well.

Joseph Brant Museum has a permanent collection showing the history of the region with lots of local photographs and items. See the changes through the time of places you see every day! There’s also a travelling exhibition space that changes a few times a year. Keep an eye on their website to see what’s new and happening.

During its renovation, Joseph Brant Museum was outfitted with a permanent kid-friendly section called the Children’s Gallery. This gallery is where kids get hands-on with a variety of ways to learn about Burlington. Activities encourage kids to use STEAM techniques to play and learn simultaneously. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, Children 3-12 are $6 and under 2 are free.

Giant Lite-Brite is just one of the interactive exhibits in the Children’s Gallery at Jo Brant Museum

Hamilton Area Museums Families Love

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology – Explore the early industrial revolution in this 150-year-old waterworks with two 70-ton steam engines. The museum has a variety of permanent and changing exhibits.

Battlefield House – Experience this 19th-century homestead, home to the Gage family and the site of the 1813 Battle of Stoney Creek. Look for the re-enactment of the Battle in early June.

Dundurn Castle – Lots to explore at this site: Dundurn Castle, built in the 1830s, the Hamilton Military Museum, and the coach house.

Dundurn Castle in Hamilton

Whitehern Historic House and Gardens – See artefacts from many different time periods in this house that was inhabited by three generations of the McQuesten family.

Art Gallery of Hamilton – Home of one of our favourite installations, the Bruegel-Bosch bus. See how many strange things you can spot! Read about our visits here. There are free days and discounts often, and the entire 2nd floor is great for families to visit.

The Breugel-Bosch Bus at the art gallery of hamilton active parents
Art Gallery of Hamilton

More Hamilton Museums and Points of Interest Kids Will Enjoy

Worker’s Art and Heritage Centre – A community museum celebrating the history of workers and labour, as well as social justice issues.

HMCS Haida (June-Sept) Climb aboard the Tribal class destroyer and imagine being a crew member on “Canada’s most fightingest ship”.

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum – Get an up-close look at many of the aircraft flown by Canadians and the Canadian military from the beginning of WWII to the present. Visit in April thru the warm weather to watch planes take off and land.

Westfield Heritage Village: Over 35 historical buildings are set in a large conservation area. Step back in time with the help of costumed interpreters, and then hike the surrounding woodlands and meadowlands. Known for Maple Syrup, Ice Cream and Christmas events there’s always a good time to visit!

CFL Hall of Fame houses over 30,000 items, including trophies, helmets, and playing equipment. Not to mention game and record balls, jerseys, sweaters, banners, photographs, films and videos. A must-see for any football fan! 

At the time of publication, the Hamilton Children’s Museum remains closed due to capital project work. We can’t wait to see what the future brings for one of our favourite children’s museums!

Family-Friendly Museums and Galleries in Niagara

Laura Secord Homestead: This small house in the small village of Queenston was the home of and starting point of Laura Secord’s 32km journey to warn the British of the attack planned by the Americans during the war of 1812. 

Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo Children’s Museums

Guelph Children’s Museum: With special hands-on interactive kid-friendly galleries you can explore the history of Guelph and with temporary, changing exhibits, there’s always something new to see.

THEMUSEUM: Five floors of fun! THEMUSEUM has permanent and temporary exhibitions, events, and programs for all ages. Walking pianos, a bed of nails, and waterflow table are all big hits here! This is one of the best family-friendly children’s museums I’ve been to!

Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum and Doon Heritage Village: Discover the history of the Waterloo region from indigenous peoples to community settlement in the 1800s, to the industrial revolution and manufacturing boom. Outside, wander the 60-acre Doon Heritage Village where interpreters in period dress and the Building Stories app will help you learn more about the buildings and way of life from the early 1900s. 

THEMUSEUM children's museum kitchener
Making stop-motion animation at THEMUSEUM

Museums and More That Are Worth The Drive to Toronto

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Explore natural history from dinosaurs to the bat cave, as well as history from around the world. With special hands-on interactive galleries, the artefacts really come alive! 

Hockey Hall of Fame: Home of the original Stanley Cup as well as artefacts, memorabilia and hands-on galleries. Permanent exhibits show Ethnicity in Hockey, Women in Hockey, and Disabled Hockey. 

Casa Loma: Sir Henry Pellatt built Casa Loma – then the biggest private residence in Canada – full of extravagant fixtures and fittings. An extremely popular film location you can see some recreations from some of the more famous movies and television shows filmed there. With a secret passage out to the carriage house, there is a lot to explore.

Black Creek Pioneer Village: Visit small-town Ontario from the 1860s made up of 40 heritage buildings, most donated and relocated to Black Creek (sometimes brick by brick!), 70 heritage animals and gardens of plants and flowers grown from heritage seeds. Costumed educators show visitors the trades and crafts of the time using some of the 50,000 artefacts on-site to bring the time to life.

McMichael Art Gallery: Focussed exclusively on indigenous and Canadian art, this beautiful gallery is home to over 6,500 artworks by the Group of Seven, First Nations, Metis, Inuit and contemporary artists. With permanent and temporary exhibitions there’s always something new.

family-friendly museum royal ontario museum
Dinosaurs at The ROM

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/kid-friendly-museums-and-galleries/feed/ 1 Art Gallery of Hamilton – How To Visit For Free! https://activeparents.ca/art-gallery-of-hamilton/ Fri, 21 Feb 2025 21:03:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=39216 The Art Gallery of Hamilton is one of the city's best places to visit for families. And we have the scoop on how you can visit for free! Read on to find out.

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]]> The Art Gallery of Hamilton – or AGH for short – is one of the city’s best places to visit for families. Yes, kids will enjoy the art gallery, you have my word on it! Plus, we have the scoop on how you can enjoy free admission! Read on to find out.

Read More: Looking for more kid-friendly museums and galleries, be sure to read this article.

The Art Gallery of Hamilton – Fun For Kids

The Art Gallery of Hamilton is 75,000 square feet and home to over 10,000 pieces in its collection. It’s way bigger than I imagined. Some pieces come and stay for a short period. These are called exhibitions. But many of the works call the art gallery home permanently and are referred to as collections. The second floor is home to a mixture of exhibitions and collections.

On our most recent visit, at the end of September, we spent the afternoon wandering the outdoor gallery grounds and checking out all of the works in the garden. Then we made our way inside to see our favourite gallery, Level 2. Here’s a scoop on what we saw.

Read More: Find more things to do in Hamilton right here.

Addison loved every single exhibit on Level 2!

The first collection we saw when we got off the elevator was titled Tom Thompson: The Art of Authentication. After checking out those works, we walked into the Level 2 Gallery and saw the temporary residency installation from Sylvia Nickerson. My layman’s description is “posed human figures made out of shredded, colourful paper”. It was so eye-catching and great to be able to look at it up close. There were large pieces right on the open floor that you could walk around and really observe. I just wanted to reach out and touch them (but don’t do that!).

My 11-year-old really liked the comic book-esque works and spent a lot of time checking them out in detail. Kids notice such unusual things! Some pieces included packing bits, tin foil, plastic and other repurposed items. They were busy and eye-catching and gave us so many things to point out. If I had a nickel for every time I said “Look at that!” I’d be rich.

Girl at the AGH at the art gallery of hamilton active parents
The AGH has a ton of kid-friendly exhibits.

We Came To See The Bus

Our main reason for visiting was to see something I’ve wanted to see for so long. The Bruegel-Bosch Bus by Kim Adams. It definitely didn’t disappoint! In fact, I’ve got plans to take the rest of the family back to check it out. The bus is a permanent installation at the AGH, so don’t worry that you might miss it. It’s a wild creation that connects an awesome Volks Wagon Bus and thousands of toys and action figures. It’s truly like nothing you’ve ever seen before. I cannot recommend a visit to see it enough.

When we visited, the roof had a small leak that was being repaired, so we couldn’t walk all around the Bus but normally you can see it from every angle. We recommend spending lots of time looking at every nook and cranny.

The Breugel-Bosch Bus at the art gallery of hamilton active parents
AGH active parents
Can you see the skeletons, Austin powers figurines, train tracks, hockey players…and more?!

After we spent so long in that section, we wandered the rest of the second floor. They had a section filled with massive works by Indigenous artists and (again) we fell in love. Make sure to check it out when you visit the AGH. The colours are stunning.

Young girl looking at Indigenous art at the art gallery of hamilton
My little masterpiece and her favourite work of art

Walk a little more and you’ll find more rooms with even more cool things to see. This miniature city scene had the tiniest details and was another of my daughter’s favourites. This room was filled with contemporary art, which was an excellent and engaging introduction for my 11-year-old. There were great discussions about the art itself, how it was made and why the artist and the design (why that colour? texture?)

art gallery of hamilton AGH miniature display

The Art Gallery of Hamilton shares these tips for families when they visit:

  • The AGH is baby-friendly. Bring your stroller or front baby carrier. They have elevators.
  • Breastfeed in their many seating areas, or for more privacy try their Playroom space
  • Washrooms have change tables
  • Keep your visit short if you need to, match your child’s pace and come back multiple times
  • Ask kids lots of questions to focus their investigation, and encourage them to share their ideas. Let your child lead to ensure you see things that interest and engage them. Play games like “I Spy” or “Tell Me What Happens Next.”

Visiting the AGH – For Free!

The very best part of our visit to Gallery Level 2 and the Jean and Ross Fischer Gallery is that they are always FREE ADMISSION courtesy of RBC Incite Foundation for the Arts and Orlick Industries. And admission to the AGH in its entirety is free on Thursdays right now.

Address: Art Gallery of Hamilton – 123 King Street West in Hamilton. You can visit the AGH website here.

Upcoming Events at The AGH

Art Gallery of Hamilton

123 King Street West
Hamilton, Ontario L8P4S8
Canada
(905) 527-6610
http://www.artgalleryofhamilton.com
View More

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]]> Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory (Photos + FAQs Answered) https://activeparents.ca/cambridge-butterfly-conservatory/ Fri, 21 Feb 2025 21:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=35900 Experience a tropical oasis right in the city when you visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at the beauty and learn why your family will thank you for taking them.

The post Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory (Photos + FAQs Answered) appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Are you looking for things to do in Cambridge this weekend? Experience a tropical oasis right in the city when you visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at the beauty and learn why your family will thank you for taking them. 

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

What is The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory?

A must-see attraction in the Waterloo Region, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory has been open to the public since 2002. It’s 25,000 square feet of year-round indoor tropical paradise and home to thousands of butterflies, birds, fish, amphibians and insects. The Conservatory is privately owned, with a small team of amazing staff who are eager to share their knowledge with guests.

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Will my kids have fun at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory?

The Butterfly Conservatory is ideal for all ages. Not only is it one of the largest greenhouses in Canada, but it’s also home to thousands of free-flying butterflies.  Butterflies are friendly and will land on or near you! Your visit will give your kids the chance to see butterflies and insects up close, learn what butterflies eat, and even watch them in their cocoons.

Tip: Did you know that every 2 weeks or so another 1000 or more chrysalis are brought to the Butterfly Conservatory and hung up in the windows so visitors like us can watch them hatch and take their first flights. This was the highlight of our visit!

Be sure to visit the 2 museum-like galleries to get an up-close look at a variety of insects and learn about their environment and conservation. Victoria, our photographer, took her 2-year-old daughter to visit the butterfly conservatory and highly recommends it for toddlers!

little girl exploring the Cambridge butterfly conservatory

Cambridge butterfly conservatory walkway

How long does it take to go through the butterfly conservatory?

Expect more than butterflies at the butterfly conservatory! The conservatory is home to a variety of insects and moths, too.

Look deep in the habitats and you’ll catch a glimpse of both brightly coloured and camouflaging frogs. Turn your eyes a little lower and you’ll find fish and turtles! And all around you in the conservatory are free-flying birds.

Plan for a few loops of the greenhouse because you definitely won’t see everything in your first go around. Victoria and her little girl did about 4 loops and walked slowly. They spent about 90 minutes in total, but you should plan for a little more if you’re kids want to take a detailed look at the galleries.  This is such a fun things to do in Cambridge!

How much is the butterfly conservatory?

The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 p.m. 6 days a week (closed Mondays). Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory tickets for our 2-hour time frame must be purchased in advance online. This is one of the top rated things to do in Cambridge, Ontario so it can be busy on holiday and PA Days.

General Admission (13-64)$20.00
Seniors (65+)$15.00
Children (3-12)$10.00
Children (2 & under)FREE!
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Things to know about the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

  • Timed-entry tickets for your 2-hour visit can be bought in advance online
  • On-site parking is free
  • Yes, the butterfly conservatory in Cambridge is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly
  • Speak to the staff! They’re very friendly and knowledgable
  • The conservatory is very warm and very humid. Dress in layers and expect 25-degree temperatures
  • Washrooms on-site and accessible
  • The gift shop is open

 Address: the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory Cambridge Ontario is located at 2500 Kossuth Road.

Photographer Bio: Victoria is a talented photographer specializing in capturing all types of families made with love, their furbabies and branding for small businesses and Mompreneurs. Follow her adventures in toddler motherhood, photography and exploring here.

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]]> Dive Into These 5 Indoor Water parks in Ontario https://activeparents.ca/dive-into-these-5-indoor-waterparks-in-ontario/ https://activeparents.ca/dive-into-these-5-indoor-waterparks-in-ontario/#comments Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=46600 Escape the winter blahs when you visit one of the best indoor waterparks in Ontario! We have several to choose from, so our guide will help you compare features and amenities, plus prices.

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]]> Escape the winter blahs when you visit one of the best indoor waterparks in Ontario! We have several to choose from, so our guide will help you compare features and amenities, plus prices. You’ll find details on Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, Wave Indoor Waterpark, Great Wolf Lodge, Plunge! Aquatic Centre and Adventure Bay in Windsor.

Tip! We also recommended these hotels that have great water slides and/or pools for when you want a smaller-scale wet and wild adventure.

Ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Indoor Water parks in Ontario

Waves Indoor Water park

Waves Indoor Water Park is located inside the Americana Hotel. It has affordable waterpark day passes that include a full day of fun with water slides, a pool, a water play centre, a toddler splash area and more! We love the beach entry (gradual entry) for little kids and grandparents. Private cabanas are available to rent.

There is also an arcade, a surf shop, an outdoor playground, and places to play. Day passes are $39.95 per person for a full day or save 50% on weeknights. Details here.

Good To Know:

  • No outside food or beverage permitted
  • On-site restaurant & snack bar
  • Life jackets are available for free usage (first come, first served)
  • Towels provided onsite

Waves Indoor Waterpark is located at 8444 Lundys Lane, Niagara Falls. Check our Waves reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.com.

Waves Indoor Waterpark

Fallsview Indoor Water park

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is 125,000 square feet of action-packed water fun. It has a massive play area, a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket, 6-storey high waterslides, a full-sized wave pool, year-round outdoor activity pool and sundeck, plunge bowl, two oversized adult-only Jacuzzis and a children’s play area.

Drier options for play include the jungle beach playhouse. Day admission prices start at $32.99 per person entry. There is also a $35 parking fee.

Good To Know:

  • No outside food or beverages are permitted
  • There are on-site restaurants and a snack bar
  • Life jackets are available for free (first come, first served)
  • Towels are not available on-site, so bring some from home.

Fallsview Waterpark is located at 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario. Read Fallsview Waterpark reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.ca.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

Great Wolf Lodge Resort

Great Wolf Lodge is one of the biggest indoor waterparks in Canada. Families come from all around the province to stay and play here. You must be an overnight hotel guest to use the waterpark, they don’t offer day passes.

Their waterpark features a 4-story interactive fort treehouse complete with slides and toys for all ages. Little kids will love all of the waterslides in various sizes. If you’re looking for high-speed thrills, check out wolf tail which is a thrilling waterslide the teens will love. Don’t miss the frog pond with its obstacles and tube slides for water lovers of every age.

Need to get some R&R? Just grab a tube and float your cares away on the lazy river. Warm up in the whirlpool hot spas – they have one indoor and one outdoor!

Good To Know:

  • 7 onsite restaurants and snack areas to keep you nourished
  • Pool towels available onsite
  • Life jackets are available for free (first come, first served)

Great Wolf Lodge Niagara is located at 3950 Victoria Ave, in Niagara Falls

Read Great Wolf Lodge Niagara reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.ca.

Great Wolf Lodge

Plunge! Indoor Aquatic Centre at Blue Mountain

I was late to the party when it comes to knowing Blue Mountain had an indoor water feature. While not technically big enough to be an indoor waterpark, it is still a fun place to visit if you’re in the Blue Mountain area. Slip slide down the water slide and enjoy their indoor and outdoor pools. Your family will love the rope swing, dumping bucket and basketball nets, too.

Visit Plunge all year for water park fun. Starting at $16 for a day pass, per person.

Good To Know:

  • No outside food or beverages are permitted
  • No towels are available, so bring some from home.

Plunge is located at 220 Gord Canning Drive, in the Blue Mountains.

Read Plunge! reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.ca.

Plunge! Indoor Aquatic Centre at Blue Mountain

Adventure Bay Windsor Indoor Waterpark

Perfect for a weekend getaway to beat the blahs in winter. Adventure Bay Family Water Park features over 35,000 square feet of wild water adventures for guests of all ages. Attractions include 5 waterslides, “FlowRider”, a surf simulator, a wave pool and an activity pool, a lazy river, tot kids zone, and Splash Zone with slides and giant water tipping bucket. Interactive water play features include bubbling jets and geysers, aqua-cannons, tipping cones, and mini bungee swings!

Day passes start at $17.00 per person.

Good To Know:

  • Outside food & drink permitted in specific dining areas
  • No towels onsite
  • Life Jackets are available for free (first come, first served)

Adventure Bay is located at 401 Pitt Street West in Windsor.

Read Adventure Bay reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on their website here.

Adventure Bay Windsor Indoor Waterpark

Hotels With Awesome Indoor Pools and Waterslides (Almost As Good As An Indoor Waterpark)

You don’t have to go to a full-fledged waterpark to find wet and wild fun! We love these hotels with great waterslides and added family-favourite features.

Chelsea Hotel in Toronto

This hotel is beautiful and family-friendly. Their heated pool is perfect for both kids and adults to enjoy. Plus, their Corkscrew Waterslide loops outside the hotel! You have to be a guest at the hotel to swim. Pool and waterslide hours are limited right now, so check their website for open dates and times.

The hotel also has a teen lounge with old-school arcade games, flat-screen televisions, a foosball table and a pool table. Adults are invited to enjoy it too! Also check out the Kids Centre, complete with dress-up, educational and artistic activities to keep kids having fun.

Chelsea Hotel Family Fun Zone

Read Chelsea Hotel reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.com.

Mississauga Meadowvale Hilton

We have stayed here with kids and without and it is an ideal hotel for anyone. Our last visit was a quick Family Day staycation and the kids still laugh about how fast their mom zoomed down this curly water slide. The pool’s open hours have been carrying recently so be sure to check it will be open when you plan to stay.

Read our review here.

London’s Lamplighter Inn

Look at this indoor lighthouse! The Maplighter Inn is a very popular getaway for families and an equally-popular hotel for travelling sports teams. A visit is high on our must-do list. Read our review here.

Best Western Leamington

*Please contact the hotel before you book. Their pool has been under renovation in 2023.

In addition to the mini indoor waterpark and long water slides, this hotel offers an indoor climbing structure, basketball court, badminton, ping pong and more! You can read our review here.

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/dive-into-these-5-indoor-waterparks-in-ontario/feed/ 1 Top Tutors For Kids in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara https://activeparents.ca/tutors-in-halton-and-hamilton/ Sun, 16 Feb 2025 17:43:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=41543 Explore diverse options for tutoring in Oakville. Burlington, Hamilton and beyond, both in-person and online. Discover how modern tutors blend traditional and modern methods to enhance learning from elementary to high school. Join us to unlock a comprehensive guide that empowers students for academic success.

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]]> Jump into the community of personalized learning with our article about in-person and online tutoring in Hamilton, Halton, and Niagara. Learn about the different ways students can get help with their schoolwork that fits what they like and how they learn.

Explore diverse options for tutoring in Oakville. Burlington, Hamilton and beyond, both in-person and online. Discover how modern tutors blend traditional and modern methods to enhance learning from elementary to high school. Join us to unlock a comprehensive guide that empowers students for academic success.

Does My Child Need A Tutor?

As a parent, you might wonder, “Does my child need a math tutor? English tutor? Maybe science? ” It’s a valid question that many parents grapple with as they navigate their child’s education journey.

While every child’s learning experience is unique, there are certain indicators that could suggest your child could benefit from a tutor. Falling grades, persistent struggles with homework, or a noticeable lack of enthusiasm for learning are common signs that your child might need extra support that a tutor near you can provide.

Certified teachers and tutors near you can provide individualized attention and tailored instruction that may be missing in a crowded classroom setting. From support with essay writing to STEM problem solving, a tutor can help bridge gaps in understanding, boost confidence, and ignite a renewed passion for learning.

Why Should I Think About Hiring a Private Tutor?

  • Personalized attention: Tutors offer one-on-one instruction tailored to your child’s learning style and needs.
  • Individualized pace: Academic support can adapt the pace of learning to match your child’s abilities, preventing them from falling behind or feeling overwhelmed.
  • Focused learning: Tutoring services can target specific subjects or areas where your child may need extra help or enrichment.
  • Confidence boost: A Successful tutoring experience can boost your child’s confidence and motivation in their studies.
  • Improved study skills: Tutors can teach effective study techniques and time management skills that benefit your child beyond the tutoring sessions.
  • Support for different learning styles: Tutors can adapt their teaching methods to suit how your child learns best, whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic.
  • Exam preparation: Tutors can offer targeted preparation for upcoming tests, exams, and assessments, helping your child perform at their best.
  • Motivation and accountability: Tutors can keep your child accountable for their learning, fostering a sense of responsibility and discipline.

Remember that choosing a tutor near you should align with your child’s specific needs and goals.

Are you a tutor? We want to include you in our guide. Please send us your business info here to be included today!

Looking for language and enrichment classes for your child? Click here for our guide to Language and Enrichment Classes.

In-Person and Online tutors: Math, Reading and Writing and More

Oxford Learning Stoney Creek
Oxford Learning Stoney Creek presents the perfect balance of learning and fun! Each week of the summer, we will feature a different theme combining reading, writing, math, crafts, and much more! Themes will include: Dinosaurs, French is Fantastic, Let's make a Stop-motion Movie, Science is Awesome, and Superheroes. Camps will run 9am to 3pm, Monday through Friday. Weekly fee: $300, but discounts are available if you enrol multiple children or for multiple weeks. Spaces are already filling up, so call us at 905-664-9449 or email stoneycreek@oxfordlearning today! Camps are suitable for kids in JK through Grade 6.
Beyond The Classroom - Hamilton
Brain Power
Brain Power Enrichment Programs offers after-school academic enrichment classes for high-potential students in Grades 1-12. Classes to choose from include Language Arts, Math & Problem Solving, and Public Speaking. Classes are offered on evenings and weekends in Oakville this fall at Appleby College. Brain Power's small-group classes are often led by PhD instructors, who are experts in their fields. 
BrightSparkz Tutors Canada
BrightSparkz is a proudly female-led and female-run learning company! An extremely dedicated group of individuals striving to provide Canadian families with exceptional learning support services and attracting and training tutors of exceptional quality.
Burlington Inspiration Tutoring
Curriculum Excel
Dana Lentle - Private Tutor
Gems Learning Institute
GEMS Learning Institute offers coding, math, robotics, and chess programs for kids, fostering creativity and problem-solving in a fun, engaging environment.
Kumon Burlington
Learning Tree Educational Store
Owned and operated by an educator who is passionate about learning at all ages. Learning Tree Educational Store carries the highest quality in educational toys, puzzles, games, resources and books. We offer in-store camps, educational classes and birthday parties for kids of all ages.
Mountain Speech Language Services
We assess and treat a wide range of disorders and differences of speech, language, literacy from babies to teens.
New Leaf Literacy and ADHD Coaching
Literacy coaching and ADHD/Executive Functioning Skills coaching services are offered privately throughout the year (1-to-1) and as camps during March Break and the summer.
OAKLearning Centres Camps
Our mission is to enable young learners to become competent and confident students, hence, to unleash their full potential in learning. We strive to help students form good learning habits and strengthen their core academic skills. We also take pride in inspiring students to explore further STEM areas through our world-renowned robotic courses and camps. 
Scholars of Burlington North
Summit Ridge Academy
Teacher founded and run tutoring agency, providing group or one-to-one individualized, strategic and engaging programming for students in Kindergarten to Grade 12.
TIna The Tutor
As a math tutor of Burlington community for over 20 years, my passion is helping young adults high school) gets a thorough grasp on math concepts.

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]]> Fishing in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and More https://activeparents.ca/fishing-in-hamilton-burlington-and-the-surrounding-area/ Wed, 12 Feb 2025 18:48:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=37402 If you are asking yourself “Are there any great fishing spots near me?” then you are in the right spot. With the help of our amazing community of readers, we’ve […]

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If you are asking yourself “Are there any great fishing spots near me?” then you are in the right spot. With the help of our amazing community of readers, we’ve assembled a list of the best places for fishing in Burlington and Hamilton. If you have a favourite fishing spot you recommend, please share it with us!

Fishing in Halton and fishing in Hamilton is such a unique way to spend the day in nature. It’s a great family activity for kids and adults of all ages. Wondering where you can fish in and around Burlington and Hamilton? Turns out there are quite a few options for you to choose from, so grab your rod and reel and meet us at the water!

Related reading: Free Fishing Weekends in Ontario

Do I need a fishing license to fish in Ontario?

Canadian residents over 18 years of age and international visitors, must purchase both an Outdoors Card AND a fishing license. The only exception is when purchasing a single-day fishing license. Those under 18 and over 65 years of age, do not need a fishing license.

Visit the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry website for more information or to purchase licenses: https://www.ontario.ca/page/fishing. They may also be purchased at a Service Ontario Centre, or in some retail outdoors/sporting shops.

More Outdoor Fun: Hiking Spots That Families Love

fishing in hamilton

The Best Hamilton-Area Fishing Spots

Christie Lake Conservation Area, Dundas

  • Day Use fees apply if you are not an Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) membership holder.

  • What species will you find? Northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish.

  • Christie Lake is a fish sanctuary so fishing is closed from April 1st until the fourth Saturday in June annually.

  • Purchase your bait at the gatehouse in the summer months.

  • Electric motor boats only, no gas motors permitted.

  • HCA has implemented a voluntary catch and release while fishing at Christie Lake to help support a sustainable native fishery within the reservoirs.

Address: 1000 Hwy 5 West, Dundas, ON 

Valens Lake Conservation Area, Flamborough

  • Day Use fees apply or admission is included with a Hamilton Conservation Authority annual membership.

  • Species: Largemouth bass, pike, crappie, bluegill, perch, catfish and carp.

  • Bait: Available at both stores during the summer months.

  • Valens Lake is a fish sanctuary, therefore fishing is closed from April 1st to the fourth Saturday in June annually.

  • Electric motor boats only, no gas motors permitted.

  • HCA has implemented a voluntary catch and release while fishing at Valens Lake to help support a sustainable native fishery within the reservoirs.

Address: 1691 Regional Road 97, Flamborough, ON

Fifty Point Conservation Area, Winona

  • Day Use fees apply or are included with your Hamilton Conservation Authority annual membership.

  • Fishing is available in the pond or in Lake Ontario. Please note that as of 2018, the pond at Fifty Point is no longer stocked.

  • Purchase your bait at the gatehouse during the summer months.

  • Marina facilities include a fully serviced gas dock and pump out station.

Address: 1479 Baseline Road, Winona, ON

Royal Botanical Gardens Fishway, Hamilton

Located at the outlet of Cootes Paradise Marsh, a short walk from Princess Point accessed along the Desjardins Trail. Its design keeps invasive Common Carp out of the marsh but allows water and native fish to move between the two bodies of water. Lots of families who fish recommended this location to us.

Bayfront Park, Hamilton

With lots of access to the water’s edge, anglers of all ages and abilities enjoy fishing here. There is a playground, restaurants and more in the same area. Spend a whole day here!

  • Free public boat launch

  • Parking lot and public washrooms

Address: 200 Harbourfront Drive, Hamilton

fishing in oakville

Fishing Spots in Burlington, Campbellville and Carlisle

Mountsberg Conservation Area, Campbellville

  • Day Use fees apply, and reservations are not required but recommended to visit.

  • Largemouth bass that may tip the scales at more than 5 lbs

  • The shallow weedy waters of the reservoir also include northern pike, black crappie, pumpkinseed and brown bullhead.

  • Fish from shore or non-motorized boats.

Address: 2259 Millburough Line, Campbellville.

fishing in burlington

the best fishing spots near me in Oakville and Milton

Kelso Conservation Area, Milton

  • Day Use fees apply, and reservations are not required but recommended to visit.

  • Fish the reservoir for rainbow and brown trout, large and smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch and pumpkinseed.

  • Fish from the shore or a non-motorized boat.

  • Downstream from the dam, adult rainbow trout (steelhead) can be caught through late spring.

Address: 5234 Kelso Road, Milton.

Hilton Falls Conservation Area, Milton

  • Day Use fees apply, and reservations are recommended.

  • Fish the reservoir from shore for largemouth bass which may exceed 5 lbs.

  • No boating is allowed in the reservoir.

  • Brook trout can be caught in the tributaries of Sixteen Mile Creek which flows through the park.

Address: 4985 Campbellville Road, Milton. 

Robert Edmondson Conservation Area, Milton

  • No reservations are recommended.

  • An excellent venue for family fishing.

  • A boardwalk at the south end of the pond provides access for physically challenged persons and picnic areas are available.

  • No boating is allowed in the reservoir.

  • Largemouth bass and pumpkinseed.

Address: #10025 First Line Nassagaweya, Milton. 

Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Oakville

  • Day Use fees apply.

  • You can access the creek easily by following Half Moon Valley Trail. Once there, you may fish (in season) for Rainbow Trout, splake, steelhead and Pacific Salmon.

Address: 1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville. 

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> Speech Therapy and Speech Language Pathologists https://activeparents.ca/speech-therapy/ Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:22:53 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=75655 Top speech therapy services in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara. Explore local SLPs and clinics to support your child's communication development.

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Finding the right speech therapy support for your child can make a world of difference in their confidence and communication skills. Whether you’re looking for a private speech-language pathologist, in-clinic therapy, or virtual services, the Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara regions offer a variety of options to meet your family’s needs.

We receive DMs on our Facebook page from families looking for speech support services. It’s a popular request, so we created this guide to help everyone. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) will help with everything from early language development and articulation to stuttering, social communication, and literacy challenges. This directory highlights trusted professionals and clinics in the area, making it easier for parents to find the right support for their child’s speech and language journey.

Below, you will find a list of local service providers offering speech therapy near me for children and families. Be sure to check with each provider for details on their specialties, availability, and whether they offer in-person or virtual sessions.

Are you an SLP? Submit your business info here to be included in our guide. It’s free and easy.

Looking for language and enrichment classes for your child? Click here for our guide to Language and Enrichment Classes.

Tutoring Services can be found in this guide.

Speech Therapy and Speech Language Pathologists

Speech Therapy and Speech Language Pathologists

Anderson Therapy Services - Therapy Based Summer Camps
Anderson Therapy Services is excited to be offering 3 summer camps this year! Learn, Listen & Play (July 10-14), Lively Letters (July 24-28) and Express Yourself (August 14-18).
Bloom Speech Therapy
Bloom Speech Language Therapy’s goal is to facilitate change and transformation so that children can meet their potential and gain new skills and tools and caregivers can better understand their kids’ unique communication strengths and needs so they feel more confident.
Halton Speech Clinic
Halton Speech Clinic provides experienced speech and language services to kids. We offer 1-on-1, activity-based therapy tailored to your child in a supportive setting.
Hamilton Speech Services
Hamilton Speech Services Camps
Key Early Years Speech-Language Pathology
I’m an slp focusing on toddler and preschooler speech & language problems. Parents attend sessions virtually with me from anywhere in ON to get strategies, coaching & support.
Mountain Speech Language Services
We assess and treat a wide range of disorders and differences of speech, language, literacy from babies to teens.
Zebra Therapy
Improve your child’s quality of life with impactful speech-language therapy. We serve the Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Halton Hills, Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon areas in-home, and all of Ontario virtually.

Read Our Latest Articles

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]]> Feel Like A GIANT At Little Canada https://activeparents.ca/little-canada/ Sat, 25 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=53372 When you're looking for things to do in Toronto, Make sure to consider a visit to Little Canada. They have put together some miniature displays of some of Canada's most popular locations. The detail and the size will blow your mind!

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When you’re looking for things to do in Toronto, plan a visit to Little Canada. They have put together some miniature displays of some of Canada’s most popular locations. The detail and the size will blow your mind!

Visiting Little Canada

We love a weekend in Toronto; this time we went to Little Canada. A visit had been on my to-do list for a few months and believe me when I tell you the in-person experience is so much better than anything you could have imagined.

You can book your visit and buy your tickets online or at the ticket booth. Little Canada is centrally located at Young Dundas Square, right in the middle of all the excitement of Toronto.

When you enter one of the staff members will give you a map and a scavenger hunt for your kids. They have a little Canadian moose hidden in every display that the kids will love finding. It also helps to hold their attention and keep them engaged.

Read More: Find our favourite day trip ideas here or spend the night at one of these family-friendly staycation destinations.

Be a GIANT tourist in Little Niagara Falls

The first room you walk into is Niagara Falls and it did not disappoint! If you’ve been following us for a while, you know how much I love doing all the touristy stops in the falls. This extremely detailed display was a walk down memory lane!

You’ll see the Falls and the huge tour boats that get you close to the rapids. The hydropower station and the gardens, too. Is it getting dark in here? Yes, it is! The lighting takes you from daytime to nighttime so you can watch the Niagara Falls light up. Keep following the falls around and around and you’ll come to the most exciting street in Ontario – Clifton Hill! How many of those Niagara tourist destinations (link) have you visited with your kids? The Vegas-like rights look great when the lights dim, too!

little canada niagara falls clifton hill
The Clifton Hill display at Little Canada.

Toronto – A Little BIG City

The next room you visit is home to a large (yet little!) display of the most popular locations in Toronto. You’ll love the nostalgia and the memories that come flooding back every time you notice a familiar spot. Chinatown, the Rogers Center, the distillery district and of course Toronto’s busy highways!

Make sure to watch as the Rogers Center roof opens and closes.

Fun Fact: One of the miniature model makers told us that the Rogers Center model was so big that it wouldn’t fit through the doors. They had to cut a hole in the roof and lower it down from above!

The Rogers Centre and CN Tower at the Little Canada exhibit in Toronto

Travel To More Little Canada Destinations

Little Canada has displays for smaller Ontario towns too – like Burlington and Hamilton! Both are part of the Little Golden Horseshoe exhibit. My kids loved this one because so many places were familiar and places they’d been before. Stelco, Around The Bay and a very famous hot dog stand, will catch your eye.

Ottawa was another familiar family favourite to re-explore at Little Canada. If you’ve never been, this is the perfect chance to see it from a bird’s eye view and plan your next getaway! The Parliament Buildings are so regal and patriotic. Make sure to watch for the sun to “go down” so you can watch the Canada Day fireworks! They really have thought of everything – even Beavertails!

Bonjour Petit Quebec! You won’t need to parlez Français to enjoy this exhibit! Petit Quebec is home to the Chateau Frontenac, one of Canada’s most beautiful hotels as well as its famous cobblestone roads. Look for iconic winter ice sculptures, sugar bushes, and more.

Hamilton Harbour at the Little Canada exhibit in Toronto
“Little” home away from home!

Coming Soon To Little Canada

Little Canada is always growing! 2024-2025 has plans to see Little Rockies and Prairies, Little West Coast, East Coast, Little North and Petit Montreal. We can’t wait to visit again.

Little Quebec at the Little Canada exhibit in Toronto
Bonjour Petit Quebec

Frequently Asked Questions About Little Canada

Where is Little Canada?

It is located at Yonge-Dundas Square, 10 Dundas Street East, Toronto, ON, M5B 2G9. Right across from the Eaton Centre.

Is there parking?

You can find Gree P parking under the Eaton Centre, but I would suggest taking the GO Train in to make it easier on parents and more fun for kids!

Is Little Canada accessible?

Yes! Every level of Little Canada can be accessed by elevator, and staff are always on hand to help when needed.

Can you buy food or bring food?

No outside food or drinks are allowed, but, the Little Bites café is located adjacent to the Little Things gift shop when you get peckish.

How long should I expect to be there?

About 90 minutes is what you should budget to see everything.

I want to thank the team at Little Canada for inviting us to explore your current exhibit. You can see more photos and book your visit at Little-Canada.ca.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> Guelph Civic Museum: Lots of Hands-On Exploring For Children https://activeparents.ca/guelph-civic-museum/ Thu, 16 Jan 2025 20:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=51885 You know how much we love a children's museum, and the Guelph Civic Museum has a wing dedicated to hands-on fun for kids that we know you'll love.

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You know how much we love a children’s museum, and the Guelph Civic Museum has a wing dedicated to hands-on fun for kids that we know you’ll love.

Where is the Guelph Civic Museum?

You already know the city it’s located in, but there’s more. The Civic Museum is located quite centrally in the city, and has lots to see within walking distance. Once you’ve explored the many floors of the Civic Museum, we suggest checking out the beautiful architecture of its next-door neighbour the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate because it’s beautiful. In the warm months, you can also shop at the Guelph Farmer’s Market for snacks and fresh lunch ideas.

Is The Guelph Museum Good For Kids?

In a word, yes! Our favourite part of the museum, and where we spent all of our time, was the Children’s Gallery. The children’s gallery has multiple sections that cover a variety of topics from dinosaurs to the future of the environment.

Listen and learn about Ontario’s Indigenous peoples and how they have always taken care of the planet and all of its creatures.

Learn about Ontario’s early settlers and how their daily lives differed much – but not too much – from the daily lives we live today.

Dinosaurs in Guelph? Absolutely! Your kids will love discovering that mammoths and mastadons once roamed the very streets they are walking today!

Become an eco-warrior when you learn about nature preservation, the watershed and water consumption.

Kids won’t realize how much they are learning through the hands-on immersive activities offered in the children’s gallery at Guelph Civic Museums, but parents will notice when their dinner conversations are enlightened! I love asking kids open ended questions to watch their brains light up with thoughts.

Take a 3D tour of the family gallery here.

What Else Is There To Do At The Guelph Civic Museum?

The Civic Museum in Guelph has a number of galleries, each home to permanent collections or new exhibits. Learn about the history of the area and where Guelph sees itself in the future.

How Much Is Admission To the Museum?

The Families Gallery is open for drop-in visits from 11:00am-5:00pm, Tuesday-Sunday. Pre-booking is not required during these hours.

With a Families Gallery reservation, you will be able to explore the rest of the Civic Museum during your visit. You will also receive a voucher for a future visit to McCrae House.

Admission is $18 for 2 adults and up to 4 children.

Guelph Civic Museums is located at 52 Norfolk Street, Guelph, ON N1H 4H8

(519) 836-1221

guelphmuseums.ca

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> Burlington Festival of Lights – 2024 Dates and Photos https://activeparents.ca/burlington-festival-of-lights/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=48926 It is rare to have such a beautiful light festival also be FREE but the Burlington Festival of Lights is just that! Here's when it starts, ends and what displays you can expect to see.

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It is rare to have such a beautiful light festival also be FREE but the Festival of Lights in Burlington is just that! Here’s when it starts, ends and what displays you can expect to see.

READ MORE: Drive Through and Walk Through Light Shows

Santa and his reindeer at the Burlington Festival of Lights

What is the Burlington Festival of Lights?

Every year, Spencer Smith Park is turned into a festive, glowing landscape of holiday, Christmas and everyday scenes. Volunteers and donations make this event run smoothly, and we add this to our list of must-do winter events every single year.

The Festival of Lights kicks off with the Candlelit Stroll through Downtown Burlington, so make sure to attend that as well! The entire evening is filled with seasonal joy and opportunities to make memories and snap photos.

Spread throughout this article you’ll see some of our favourite light displays, each handmade and assembled specifically for the Festival. Some are classics like Santa with his sleigh. My favourite has always been a tie between the moose and pine trees and the 5 blue “frames” framing seasonal items. I’ll share it below.

READ MORE: Experience the CP Holiday Train When It Stops in Hamilton, Milton and Cambridge

I absolutely love this display!

This reminds me of Canada’s great white north

Festival Dates and Times

The Festival kicks off on Friday, November 29, 2024 at 4 pm, with the lights on daily from 4 pm till midnight daily until Sunday, January 5th, 2025.

READ MORE: Find the best holiday events happening today and all season long.

Tips and Answers To Frequently Asked Questions

We like to think of ourselves as veterans of the Burlington Festival of Lights. We’ve gone every year since I moved to Burlington over 20 years ago, and that was long before we had a family to take. Here are my tips for visiting, with kids and without:

  • Proper footwear. watch the weather, if it is even a little bit wet out, the grounds will be VERY wet. Rubber boots or winter boots are essential.

  • Bring your camera and a hot beverage to keep you warm if the temperatures drop.

  • Come at night if you can. Lights are on from 5 pm, and look their absolute best after dark.

  • The waterfront is stroller-friendly, but the grounds aren’t as manoeuvrable if they have frozen.

  • Bring a flashlight because the ground has a lot of tables and tie-downs that you could trip over if you don’t see them.

  • Dogs on leashes are very much welcome.

  • There’s limited parking directly at Spencer Smith Park but there is ample parking in the structure and on side streets.

  • No tickets, no pre-booking and no cost to visit the Burlington Festival of Lights.

Winter whimsey is everywhere at this light festival in Burlington

Volunteer at Burlington Festival of Lights

As mentioned, the F.O.L. wouldn’t run nearly as well without the hardworking volunteers who assemble and tear down the displays every year. Apply for volunteer opportunities – also called the Twinkle Patrol – with the Festival of Lights through Volunteer Halton. Click here for more info on volunteering.

Have a Holly, Jolly Time With These Helpful Articles

Enjoy some of our most recent articles on all things Christmas. Or click here to see everything Winter-related.

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]]> Ice Skating Lessons For Kids and Adults https://activeparents.ca/learn-to-skate-programs-for-kids-and-adults/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=50754 Want to learn to skate? These ice skating lessons near Burlington, Oakville and Milton will have you gliding gracefully before you can tie your skates! Ice skating in the wintertime […]

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Want to learn to skate? These ice skating lessons near Burlington, Oakville and Milton will have you gliding gracefully before you can tie your skates!

Ice skating in the wintertime is practically a Canadian right of passage, and these learn to skate with these ice skating classes and programs in Burlington, Oakville and Milton will help you master this new skill, no matter your age. They include learn-to-skate programs, adult skating lessons and even figure skating lessons for kids and adults.

Many adults are learning to skate because they didn’t learn when they were kids. Don’t be shy, you will not be the only grown-up on the ice for the first time.

Do you teach ice skating lessons for kids or adults? Add your program to the list right here.

Related: Once you’ve mastered your lessons, you can find an outdoor ice skating rink here.

Related: Spend more snowy days on these top-rated city-approved toboggan hills

The Can-Skate Program

Most clubs offer skating lessons based on Can-Skate’s program. CanSkate offers the best curriculum in Canada. Our flagship learn-to-skate program has taught millions of Canadians to reach their recreational and competitive goals on the ice. The CanSkate program is geared to beginners of all ages…children, adults, newcomers to Canada and athletes with a disability (AWAD). Whether you are looking to improve basic skating skills for figure skating,  hockey, ringette or speed skating, or wish to skate for recreation, fitness or fun, CanSkate will get you there. Click here to find a skating centre that offers the Can-Skate program.

Ice Skating Lessons in Burlington

Burlington Skating Club

1201 Appleby Line Burlington, Ontario L7L 5H9

Burlington Skating Centre is proud to offer Skate Canada’s flagship learn-to-skate program that is designed for beginners of all ages. With a focus on fun, participation and basic skill development. CanSkate is taught in group lesson format by Skate Canada professional coaches assisted by trained program assistants.  The delivery focuses on continuous movement and uses station rotation and circuits to teach Agility, Balance, and Control.  Skaters achieving their Stage 5 badge have the skills necessary to begin figure skating, speed skating, and/or hockey.

Wave Hockey

1179 Northside Rd, Burlington, ON L7M 1H5

Wave Hockey offers learn to skate programs for skates 3-8 years old, and learn to play hockey for kids starting at 5 years old. Adults and older kid programs are available too! Sessions run all year round with weekend and weekday options available. 

Sports Concept Recreational

Lessons held at various Burlington arenas

Learn the skills for becoming a recreational hockey player or figure skater, development of forwards, backwards, stopping, turns, edges, crosscuts and jumping. Sports Concept Recreational classes ratio less than 1:8. Progress through 6 levels. Must be 5 years of age and can stand independently on the ice. Offering children’s skating, family lessons and adult learn-to-skate programs in Burlington

Power Play Hockey

3285 Mainway Drive Unit #3, Burlington, Ontario

Power Play Hockey offers a learn-to-skate program and a learn-to-play hockey program as well as private lessons.

Skating Lessons in Oakville

Skate Oakville

Lessons held at various Oakville arenas

Skate Oakville offers learn-to-skate lessons delivered using the nation’s premiere program, CanSkate. This best-in-class program has been recently updated by Skate Canada and all of the learn-to-skate coaches at the club are certified to deliver it using the latest techniques and tools.

Cutting Edge Hockey Development Centre

1130 Speers Rd, Oakville, ON L6L 2X4,

Led by CanSkate certified Head Instructor, Thalia Stybak, Cutting Edge Hockey Development Centre. Learn to Skate programs have been tailored to meet the needs of children at all skill levels. Choose the class best suited to your child’s skills or age group. A CSA-approved helmet with a full cage is required to participate in these programs. Classes are 30 minutes in duration.

Learn-To-Skate Programs in Milton

Milton Skating Club

Location: Milton Skating Club, 605 Santa Maria Blvd, Unit #2 / Rink A, Milton, ON

The Milton Skating Club offers skating lessons for kids of all ages, special needs skaters, adults and more. Small groups and no experience required.

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]]> 10+ Board Game Cafes That Are Too Cool To Pass On https://activeparents.ca/board-game-cafes/ Fri, 25 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=47798 Board game cafes have been popping up all over the world, and in your city, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a unique and fun experience for people of all ages and backgrounds.

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Welcome to our list of local board game cafes in Burlington, Hamilton, Niagara and beyond! Board game cafes have been popping up all over the world, and in your city, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a unique and fun indoor experience for people of all ages and backgrounds.

In this blog, we’ll explore what board game cafes are, why they’re becoming so popular, and what you can expect when you visit one. We’ll also give you some insider knowledge on the cafes we’ve been to and share some of our favourite board games to play while you’re there. So sit back, relax, and grab the dice, because it’s your turn!

If you’ve ever caught yourself asking “Is there a board game cafe near me?” then keep this list handy for some serious fun in the near future.

What is a Board Game Cafe?

A board game café is a spot much like. coffee shop or dessert bar where you can play board and card games. Most cafes also served food and drinks. Visitors generally pay a fee (per person or per table) and have access to a huge assortment of board games. The staff are super fans and often recommend games and help you with gameplay and instructions. Many board game cafés also sell the games.

Why are Board Game Cafes So Popular?

Playing board games have always been something fun to do with family and friends, but it can get pricey if you want to play a new game every few weeks. That’s where game cafes shine. For a small fee, you have access to a library of games, all to play and put back if they don’t tickle your fancy. For just a couple of dollars per person, you can try all of the popular and pricey games to make sure you love them. What a fun way to eliminate buyer’s remorse!

Well-stocked locations, like Ludology Boardgame Cafe in St. Catharines is only $5 to stay and play for a few hours, making it very popular.

Read More: Our favourite board games for the whole family

elizabeth playing at mancala monk board game cafe in Hamilton ontario
Our visit to Mancala Monk had us playing Wheel of Fortune and more.

Game Cafes We’ve Been To

In our travels, we have visited 2 board game cafes in Hamilton and 1 in Toronto. We love this low-key rainy-day idea that doesn’t cost much. You can get an entire afternoon of fun for your whole family, with drinks and snacks, for less than $50.

Never Board Games Lounge in Hamilton was out most recent visit to a cafe. With over 900 games to choose from, we tried so many and founds some new faves that we added to our Christmas list. Food drinks and alcohol are available on site. You can also play game in their 2 themed private rooms to really get that immersive feeling.

Mancala Monk board game cafe in Hamilton, was the first one we ever visited. My kids were 8 and 10 and had a ton of board game options. I loved that they could cruise the wall of games and choose any box they wanted to try. Their short attention spans meant we played half of each game we choose, but with over 1400 games to choose from, we were never board.

Next Up – the new board game cafe in Burlington “Nostalgia Game Cafe”

Read More: 47+ Date Night Ideas To Put On Your Calendar

Board Game Cafes Worth Visiting

Dicey Business
We are a cozy board game café with over 400 board games to play while enjoying a good selection of food and drinks. Our Dicey Community loves Board Games, Trading Card Games, Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Art Nights, and anything else nerdy you can think of
Leisure Cafe
A board game cafe with a comfortable retro feel designed as a community gathering place.
Ludology Board Game Cafe
Play one of your Favorites, or play something New. Our staff will help you get gaming! Enjoy our fantastic selection of Food and Drink, while you game or dine! $5 per person, 2-5 hour time limit may apply. 
LVLUP Board Game Store and Cafe
Lots of community gaming events and themed nights for fans of D&D, MTG and more!
Mancala Monk Board Game Cafe
Nostalgia Games Cafe
Burlington's board game cafe. Just opened in November 2023 and offering hot and cold drinks and light snacks. 
Parkway Social
Parkway Social has been an icon of St Catharines since 1958 as an entertainment destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a quirky date night idea or to get competitive with friends or colleagues, our venue is the perfect location. 
The Adventurers Guild
It's $7 per adventurer for a full day's access to the library! And The Adventurers Guild stocks precisely one metric fun-load of games. That translates to the best and first collection in K-dub and the Region - 1500+ games, including board games, retro video games, and role-playing games.
The Bard and Bear Board Game Cafe
The Round Table - Guelph
Board games, axe throwing, archery, escape rooms and more!
The Round Table - Kitchener
Board games, special events, trivia nights and more.

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]]> We Rock The Spectrum Indoor Playcentre Oakville https://activeparents.ca/we-rock-the-spectrum-indoor-gym-for-all-kids/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=38160 We Rock The Spectrum in Oakville is a kids gym where everyone is welcome, regardless of their abilities and needs. From toddlers thru teen years, everyone loves playing at this unique kid’s gym.

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We Rock The Spectrum in Oakville is a kids gym where everyone is welcome, regardless of their abilities and needs. From toddlers thru teen years, everyone loves playing at this unique kid’s gym.

WRTS in Oakville is one of our favourite indoor places to play. This indoor gym has a variety of ways to play with its unique design. The equipment at this play centre can be changed around in just minutes. It’s never the same twice! My daughter loved this rainbow saucer-type swing so much we got one of the backyard. Family fun at its finest!

We Rock The Spectrum Kids Gym in Oakville photos of equipment

WRTS swing

play equipment you won’t find at any other Indoor play centre

I think the best part of visiting is seeing the unique ways they play with the equipment. The yoga balls, the zip line and crash pad, and the one-of-a-kind swings, all lead kids of all ages into playing in new ways. Everything at this indoor play centre in oakville is open-ended and can be used in various ways. Imaginations are used like never before!

We Rock The Spectrum Kids Gym in Oakville photos of equipment

From The Owner

From, the owner: “After discovering We Rock the Spectrum in America, we knew how much our community needed it, and that we just had to bring this amazing gym to Canada. We Rock the Spectrum is more than just a gym – it’s a safe space for kids of ALL abilities to play and grow, where they can be themselves, feel embraced, understood, and feel that they belong! WRTS is a place where families will create memories that will last a lifetime! We are the place where you never have to say “I’m sorry”!”

We Rock The Spectrum Kids Gym in Oakville photos of equipment

In addition to active play options, WRTS Oakville also has a calming room. With its dim lighting, calming music and an under-the-sea feel, this is the perfect escape when you need some quiet time away from the play area or are feeling overstimulated. Read a book in one of the cozy corners or watch the gentle flow of the lava lamp-type decor. Get creative at the blackboard by drawing a masterpiece or playing one of the many board games or puzzles at the table. There are many unique ways to play at this indoor playground in Oakville.

We Rock The Spectrum Kids Gym in Oakville photos of equipment

birthday parties and open play programs

They are the home of amazing private birthday parties in their party room and the gym offers open play times for everyone in the community. They offer programs that help kids on the spectrum connect with their peers, learn social-emotional skills, and explore music. Acting as a respite care service, parents with kids on the spectrum and with diverse needs can drop their kids off for supervised programs.

Address: We Rock The Spectrum is located at 245 Weycroft Road, Unit #3 in Oakville. You can visit their website here.

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]]> Hanes Corn Maze is Canada’s Largest Corn Maze! https://activeparents.ca/hanes-corn-maze/ Sun, 29 Sep 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=33256 It's not Fall without a visit to Hanes Corn Maze. Never been? Here's the scoop on what makes it an ideal destination for a day out with the family.

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It’s not Fall without a visit to Hanes Corn Maze. Never been? Here’s the scoop on what makes it an ideal destination for a day out with the family.

Looking For Winter Fun? We Got You!

Visit Canada’s Largest Corn Maze!

Hanes Corn Maze is the largest corn maze in Canada with over 20 acres of cornfields shaped yearly into a new, challenging maze. Make your way through the maze and collect clues at various checkpoints to solve the puzzle. Your kids will love following the map and decoding the clues at the end to win a prize. The corn maze takes 1-2 hours to complete, and it’s great fun for everyone. We had a kiddo with extra energy, and she loved running through the maze and down all of the dead ends for us. I also brought my puzzle-genius husband so we did the maze in just over an hour. And we are going to go back again!

Hanes Corn Maze

Hanes Corn Maze

Farmland and Mini Corn Maze

You can spend a full day at the farm with the kids when you visit Hanes Corn Maze in Hamilton. Little ones will love the “farmland” play area. Enormous tractor tires to climb on, swings and slides, and a sandbox full of tractors and diggers were the big draws for my kids. Don’t miss shooting free throws at the back of the hay trailer – lots of fun! The farmland play area is large and spaced safely, so kids can do lots without worry. Bring your lunches and snacks and sit at one of the many picnic tables chatting while the kids conquer the mini corn maze. It’s a one-way bendy loop through 10-foot-tall cornstalks. Keep your eyes peeled for the gigantic sunflowers – they’re gorgeous.

Hanes Corn Maze

Hanes Corn Maze

Hanes Corn Maze

Visit the Farm Animals

My girls and I are suckers for any animal, so we spent a lot of time googling the goofy goats, the brand new chicks, ducklings, piglets, and of course the furry cows (not their technical name). You can purchase feed from the dispenser, and you can use the little soup ladle to feed the goats if little fingers get nervous. Farmer Seamus told us it was a great summer for new babies at Hanes Corn Maze, and we couldn’t agree more! Watch for the sweetest little grey kitten you have ever seen. She loves to be pet.

Hanes Corn Maze

Hanes Corn Maze

Hanes Corn Maze

Did I Mention the Blasters!?

Possibly the most unique part of Hanes Corn Maze was the blasters! Oh yes, you read that correctly. There are air-powered blasters that shoot mini pumpkins or ears of corn across the field. Believe me when I tell you they shoot far! Very outside-the-box and a definite must-do when you visit.

The Tiny Bakery

Before you leave Hanes Corn Maze for the day, you absolutely must pick up something delicious from The Tiny Bakery. We bought a mini pumpkin pie, butter tarts, and a sampler pack of their best bars. Let me tell you – they did not last long! Homemade fresh every day, nothing beats it. On a weekend, the bakers can bake and sell 500 or more pies!

Hanes Corn Maze The Tiny Bakery

Tips for Visiting Hanes Corn Maze

  • Pre-book your visit online here

  • Wear “farm footwear” – the ground could be wet or dusty, so leave the fancy footwear at home

  • Dress for the weather – we went on a sunny and breezy day, but once inside the maze it got warm without the breeze

  • The farm is stroller-friendly but the maze isn’t

Hanes Corn Maze is located at 1001 Highway #5 West in Dundas Ontario

Admission Prices For Hanes Corn Maze and Farmland

Purchase admission to the Farmland and Corn or Sunflower Maze separately to build your ideal day at the farm. Kids under 3 are free to enjoy the farmland, and everyone over 3 years old is $10 each. Looking to do the Maze? Admission to the farm is included in Maze pricing and ranges from $14 to $21 for visitors over 3 years old. Click here to pre-book your time – it’s recommended.

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]]> The 7 Best Corn Mazes Near Me In Hamilton and Halton https://activeparents.ca/local-corn-mazes-to-visit-right-now/ Sat, 28 Sep 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=33130 Get lost - and found - in a corn maze this fall! There is a variety of corn mazes in Hamilton and Halton, perfect for all ages. You’ll even find some super-easy pint-sized mazes just for the littlest adventurers to conquer.

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Fall brings us all kinds of unique and seasonal entertainment and corn mazes rank at the top of our list! Add a corn maze visit to your fall plans. Kids and adults love it, and it’s always a thrill to work your way out.

There is a variety of corn mazes in Hamilton and Halton, perfect for all ages. You’ll even find some super-easy pint-sized mazes just for the littlest adventurers to conquer.

Looking For Winter Fun? We Got You!

Corn Mazes Hamilton Burlington

Corn Mazes In Hamilton

Hanes Corn Maze

The Hanes corn maze in Dundas is famous because every year the maze is a different shape! This is the largest corn maze in Canada, carved into 20 acres of 12′ tall walls of cornstalks, and a must-do fall activity. This maze has a fun puzzle to solve as well! Pre-booking is required.

While you’re there, check out their little-kid-size sunflower maze.

Price: Ranges from $14-$22 and kids under 3 are free.

Address: #1001 HWY #5 West, Dundas, ON, L9H 5E2

Read more about Hanes Corn Maze here.

Dyment’s Glen Drummond Farm

Dyment’s has a Corn Trail with Story Book, perfect for little ones. This Hamilton corn maze also boasts wagon rides, mini putt, farm animals, a play area and more. The Farm and Pumpkin Patch opens to the public in October.

Price: Admission is $16 (plus HST) for everyone over 2 years old, and kids under 2 are free.

Address: 416 Fallsview Rd E, Dundas, ON L9H 5E2

Visit the Dyment’s Glen Drummond Farm website for more info.

Corn Mazes Worth a Drive

Downey’s Farm in Brampton

Twist and turn your way through 10 km of trails. The maze is the ultimate experience with friends and family! Reservations required. Downey’s Corn Maze is included in admission. When selecting your Admission ticket, you also get to enjoy the Corn Maze Adventure from August 31 – October 31, 2024.

Weekday Price: $17.99 + HST for ages 2-92. Weekend Price: $23.99 + HST

Kids under 2 are free. All tickets must be purchased online. There are no tickets onsite.

Address: 13682 Heart Lake Road, Caledon, ON, L7C 2J5

Read about our visit here.

Strom’s Farm and Bakery in Guelph

Open October 2 – October 27, 2024. Wander 6km of maze trails. Your visit includes their corn maze, Jumpin Jack Tile Maze, Straw Maze, Rope Maze, Cedar Spiral, Sand Pit, Pedal Carts, Basketball, and Wagon.

Weekday Price: $11.95 per person, available at the gate only.

Weekend Price: $18.50 per person, available online.

Address: 5089 Wellington Rd. 32, Guelph, ON

Visit the Strom’s Farm website for additional information

Snyder’s Fun Farm Near Guelph

Book a 2-hour unlimited play visit and enjoy their 5-acre corn maze, animal barnyard, jumping pillow, giant peddle cart track and more. Includes access to our play area, pirate ships, petting zoo, pedal carts, jumping pillows, corn maze, haunted houses and HAYRIDE, too! For an additional fee, you can add on a campfire experience, too.

Weekday Price: $15.99 per person, Weekend Price: $22.99. Kids under 2 are free.

Address: 936685 Blenheim Rd, Bright, ON N0J 1B0 (just outside Cambridge)

Click here for the Snyder’s Fun Farm website

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