Evergreen Content Archives – Active Parents

50+ Experience Gifts for Kids and Families

Amber Rohal — Sun, 04 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000

So many of us are moving towards giving gifts that offer the receiver are going to gather dust to end up in the landfill sooner rather than later, so we thought we’d inspire you with a list of some of our favourite experience gifts for kids and families.

What are some of the best gifts you’ve received? I know my favourites are experiences, both big and small. Replicate that joy this year by giving an experience gift instead of another toy or sweater. Parents will appreciate having something to look forward to after the hustle and bustle of the season have winded down. And kids will be so excited to try something new or have one of their favourite activities cities all lined up and paid for!

Science backs up the fact that we should be giving experiences instead of things. The memories of a great outing or activity last much longer than the average physical object. In addition to that, the emotion tied to the experience is worth more than the price tag in every case. So without further ado, here are some of our recommendations for experience gifts for families that we’ve loved that encourage fun, adventure and a little bit of travel, too!

TIP: Keep reading till the end for great ways to wrap up experience gifts so the recipient gets the thrill of unwrapping a present, too!

Experience Gifts For Sports Fans

Some of the prices on major league tickets are out of this world, but we have just as much fun at lower division games – and we have extra money for hotdogs and popcorn! Try some of these options when you’re looking to buy experience gifts for families with sports fans.

Hamilton Cardinals Baseball games are great for your ball fans and it gives you something to look forward to when the season opens in the spring. We can’t wait to go to our first Cardinals game!

Toronto Marlies Hockey is a very close option when you can’t get Maple Leafs tickets. Or check out the Toronto Rock Lacrosse – it’s high energy and comes highly rated by families we know! Their season runs December thru April, and they play in Hamilton, so it’s a perfect winter attraction. And not to be forgotten, Forge FC is top-notch soccer close by. Their games are family-friendly and in an open-air stadium from April through November.

Bulldogs Hockey is still one of our favourite family memories. Their games are fun and exciting and very family-friendly. They offer themed days with giveaways and activities during breaks in the gameplay and before. We highly suggest the Teddy Bear Toss Game where the ENTIRE crowd pitches teddy bears onto the ice to be donated to a very worthy cause.

At the Bulldogs game ready for the Teddy Bear Toss

Outdoor Experience Gifts For Kids – Adventure Awaits!

You’ll never catch me bungee jumping, but these adventurous family-friendly day trips were amazing and I definitely recommend them. If your family loves being outdoors and enjoys trying something new, give these experience gifts for families a try.

Rafting on the Grand River was one of the best things we’ve done as a family. We included friends, too and it’s so easy, fun and affordable. Create your own gift certificate for one of these adventures and pen it onto your calendar.

Chicopee Tube Park and Zipline course was a summer adventure you just have to try. In the winter, opt for snow tubing, and in the summer you must try ziplining. Priced right and so easy for all ages.

Everyone in the family can do an aerial ropes course! I’m so unathletic and even I did it! It’s a day of fresh air, adventure and using muscles you didn’t know you had! We did Boler Mountain in London, Ontario and have plans to go back because it was such a great time.

When you buy an annual membership to a conservation area, you get 4 seasons of fun- including hiking, sledging, and swimming! Plus, access to special events, and you’ll always have a destination for some fresh air fun all year long. We have purchased memberships to both Hamilton and Halton Conservation Area passes because they offer so much for us to do all year long.

Royal Botanical Gardens memberships give you access to a year’s worth of their unique indoor and outdoor events and exhibits. In addition, you can hike their trails for free, and enjoy free parking and free access to their natural playground.

Rafting the Grand River is an afternoon of excitement.

Staycation Experience Gifts For Kids and Families

A treat for both the adults and the kids is a weekend (or weekday) getaway. We’ve had some great Ontario staycations that we recommend. Whether it’s the novelty of a hotel room and hotel pool or a full-on adventure in nature, we love these easy ideas for families.

Glamping in Algonquin Park is the only way to camp for me! We even got caught in spring rain and stayed dry and warm the entire time. A day pass to Algonquin Park is included in your stay.

Enjoy a small-town hotel that was built to entertain oodles of kids at one time! An indoor climber, ping pong, basketball, volleyball and badminton are all waiting for you. And I haven’t even gotten to the pool yet!

Check out this big city that offers adventure, culture and outdoor excitement.

Stay close to home and ride a big blue waterslide. This hotel in Mississauga is a beauty and that waterslide gave us hours of fun and laughs.

This mountain-top view of Algonquin is breathtaking.

Kid-Approved Entertainment

Gifting admission tickets and gift cards to awesome places will thrill your kids on Christmas or their birthdays. The bonus is you always know exactly what you can do when the kids are climbing the walls! Here are some of our favourite places to play, if you’re looking for inspiration. These are some of our favourite experience gifts for kids.

Buy a pass to an indoor playground like Burlington’s Lil Monkeys. Parents will love the chill-out atmosphere (couches and free wifi!) and kids will love the 3 story tall climbers, arcade, slides and more.

Rock Climbing at The Hub in Mississauga has turned out to be our family’s favourite thing to do right now! It’s a workout, but something everyone can do and enjoy.

Mini Golf – Adventure Village or Putting Edge Glow-in-the-Dark mini-golf are both super fun courses.

Have you been to Activate in Burlington yet? Your kids will be stoked to get a couple of admissions to this epic indoor laser play place. And adults love it too, therefore it’s an ideal experience gift for families.

Movie Passes are always a hit. Plus, supporting a local movie theatre is good karma and leaves you more money for popcorn without sacrificing on watching a new release!

Adventurous kiddos will love the zipline and ever-changing swings at We Rock The Spectrum in Oakville.

My kids love laser tag. You can gather a group of friends up or go head to head with your sibling, but you’re such to come out happy and exhausted.

Popular Attractions Everyone Will Love

One great way to extend Christmas presents and have a plan for the winter break from school is to gift a visit to local attractions. Here are some of the popular experience gifts for kids.

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton is a family favourite. Little ones will be wowed by the massive planes indoors and adults will love the historical and learning experience.

Museums of Burlington hosts dozens of family-friendly events throughout the year and offers 2 great museums to tour, each with fresh exhibits.

Royal Ontario Museum is a quintessential must-visit for everyone, and you’ll probably need to go a few times to see it all.

Ontario Science Centre is packed with so much educational fun that kids won’t even realize how much learning they’re absorbing.

The Hockey Hall of Fame is pretty great to check out, and this is coming from a non-hockey fan!

We cannot wait to get back to Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto. Kids (and parents) will love tickets to visit this massive indoor aquarium in Toronto.

One of our favourite experience gifts for kids was a night at Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Toronto. Our group had 5 year-olds and retirees and everyone loved the action! They really put on a memorable show.

Medieval Times is so action-packed and interactive!

Get Creative… Together

Burlington Performing Arts Centre has family performances all through December to kick off the holiday season, and a full calendar for 2023!

Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts – has family performances in December and is welcoming Splash and Boots in 2022!

Give a pottery lesson where kids can paint ready-made creations (look at Pottery N Paint Cafe and Play With Clay) or try throwing clay on the spinning pottery wheel at Creative Insight Pottery Studio in Waterdown. And if you’re a cool aunt or uncle or a grandparent who wants to spend more one-on-one time with your favourite people, you can both take part together!

Purchase Lessons of Any Sort

There’s nothing quite as rewarding as learning a new skill, sport or activity to really stick with you for a lifetime. Learn a second language, how to code or ice skate – no matter what you choose to give, you’ll definitely love watching the progression from newbie to pro! We’ve got a huge list of classes and lessons for kids right here. Ask the kids what they want to learn, and their replies become experience gifts for kids!

Day Dates Are The Best experience gifts for kids

These are my favourite gifts to give my daughters. It ensures we have a plan for spending some quality time together, one on one. Here are some of the best ones from years past:

Coffee dates at a cool coffee shop and extra whip on your drinks

Manicures with Grandma were a very special one for my oldest daughter

Sushi and phō dates with my youngest blend her fave foods and quality time
Movie ticket to see the next Marvel movie or musical – and of course popcorn!

Let Them Buy It Themself

The power of a gift card is like a winning lottery ticket in the hands of a kid. They can buy anything! Although this is not an experience perse, it does give them a shot at independence that is priceless.

Asking for experience gifts for families and kids isn’t always easy. It’s a fairly new concept for many, so you may see some raised eyebrows when you say “Please don’t buy Addison a toy this year”. One tip I have is to either mention it gently a few times or at least offer to shop along with the gift-giver to help them choose a gift. I’ve already had the opportunity this year to gently guide a generous grandma into spending her hard-earned money on something more meaningful, and it’s making me even more excited for Christmas morning!

One way this works for our grandparents is that we suggest a gift card, and once we make that purchase, we snap a photo and send a card or text message. This lets the Grandmas know their gift was received, used and very much appreciated.

Don’t let this part stress you, because that’s not the point of gift giving. If you have folks in your circle who love giving a physical gift no matter how many times you try to steer them in another direction, just go with it. Help gift-givers pick out something you know your kids will use and love for years to come.

How To Wrap Experience Gifts For Kids

If you’re like me, you love wrapping up a beautiful package to give to someone. But how do you wrap an experience gift? I’ve got some ideas on just how to do that, so prepare to be inspired!

Wrapping Sports Tickets – I love including a team cap, t-shirt or jersey that the receiver can wear to the game to really be part of the action.

Travel and Staycation Gifts – Choose a small overnight bag or a new piece of luggage to “wrap” the present in. This bag is adorable and under $10. Or include a tourism brochure for the city you are visiting. Many of the tourism boards offer these for free!

Outdoor Adventures – new sunglasses, a reusable water bottle or an inexpensive backpack for the adventure. We love these backpacks that are under $10 for just this purpose.

Gift Certificates For Indoor Play – Trampoline parks require special socks when you visit, so include those. Other play places have stuffed mascots or branded merch you can buy at the front.

Giving Gift Cards – many malls and big stores have impressive envelopes to carry your gift card, but also think of a travel mug, partner it with a gift bag, or in a reusable box/jar.

Hot Off The Presses!

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Day Spas in Ontario That Will Leaving You Feeling Like A Whole New Person

Amber Rohal — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Everyone deserves to be pampered and a visit to one of these tranquil and top-rated spas in Ontario will do just that. This list will introduce you to local and drive-worthy spas that cater to relaxation and revitalization. From the popular Scandinave Spa to long-time favourites like Ste. Anne’s Spa, these locations will treat you to the pampering you deserve.

Day Spas Are A Perfect Gift For Mother’s Day

Moms provide for their families each and every day of the year. This Mother’s Day, give your Mom, or a Mom you love, the gift of rest and relaxation – a treatment, a day, or even a night or two at a spa. This list has outdoor, indoor, day and overnight pampering options to make the Moms in your life feel appreciated and special. As a note, if you are considering a Mom and daughter day out, many spas limit access to ages 16 and up or 19 and up. Read to the end of the article to find the spa that is open to children aged 8 and up.

Click here to find more ways to celebrate Mother’s Day.

The Pearle Hotel and Spa

3 Elizabeth Street, Burlington ON – Website

Serenity in the heart of Burlington. With a full list of treatments available, spa guests (with the exception of those booking nail services only) may also use the pool and Hammam steam room. Extend her visit and add on lunch or dinner.

Oban

160 Front Street, Niagara on the Lake – Website

The Oban is an Aveda Spa in Ontario’s Niagara-On-The-Lake community offering a variety of treatments. Send Mom for a treatment and a glass of Niagara wine. She might also enjoy eating lunch in the restaurant and in the summer months, swimming and lounging beside the outdoor pool.

100 Fountain Spa – Pillar & Post

48 John Street West, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0, Canada – Website

100 Fountain Spa is located in the Pillar & Post Vintage Hotel. Treat yourself or someone you appreciate to a day spa visit and/or a treatment. Guests rave about this 13,000-square-foot spa resort with a fireplace lounge, a heated indoor saltwater pool, a hot tub, an outdoor pool, a hot spring pool, and a fitness centre.

photo courtesy of 100 Fountain Spa at Pillar & Post

Millcroft

55 John Street, Alton, ON, L7K 0C4, Canada – Website

The Millcroft Spa is located within the Millcroft Inn, another of the Vintage Hotels. Among the luxurious amenities, you can enjoy hydrotherapy rooms, a fitness centre, an indoor pool, outdoor pools, a sauna, a steam room, private men’s and women’s locker room facilities with showers, a cosy fireside lounge, and a fully-licensed Spa Café. Be sure to make time to allow yourself to melt away your stress in their outdoor hot spring pools.

Thermëa Spa Village

4015 Cochrane St, Whitby – Website

Therma is a spa village in Whitby, ON. Moms can enjoy a treatment or simply a day of cycling through the hot, cold and rest thermal cycle based on the Nordik tradition. The thermal experience costs $110 plus taxes.

Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain

52 Grey Road 21, Blue Mountains, Ontario – Website

Experience thermal baths and forest bathing at the Scandinave in Blue Mountain. This is one of the most recommended spas in Ontario. Add on a massage treatment and a healthy lunch to round out her day of pampering.

photo courtesy of The Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountains

Ste. Anne’s Spa

1009 Massey Rd, Grafton ON – Website

Ste. Anne’s Spa is a frequent reply to the question “What is the best spa near me?”. Located in beautiful rural Haldimand Hills, Ste. Anne’s offers guests day passes and overnight stays. Spa-goers can choose from spa services, wellness classes, yoga retreats and overnight packages.

Go Place

3275 Highway 7 East, Unit 2, Markham, Ontario – Website

Go Place is an indoor spa located in Markham, ON. Adults and children (8 and up) accompanied by an adult of the same gender have access to “68,000 square feet of Jacuzzi, speciality baths, saunas, treatment rooms, lounging and dining areas 365 days a year.” Adult admission is $68.95 and child admission is $45. Please note that taxes and a 12% service fee are added to the bill.

Hot Off The Presses!

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Where Do Kids Eat Free in Burlington, Oakville and Milton?

Amber Rohal — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 17:08:00 +0000

“Where do kids eat free?” is one of the most frequently asked here at Active Parents, so we keep our list of places where kids can eat free updated! Turns out there are quite a few restaurants in the area that cater to the kiddies while taking it easy on the parent’s pocketbook.

This list is up to date as of March 2025, but as always, you might want to call the restaurant to confirm that they’re still offering a Kids Deal on your preferred night. And if you know of any restaurants that offer free kids meals (or kids specials) please let us know!

Also, check out our Kids Eat Free Guide for Hamilton and our Kids Eat Free Guide for Niagara Region.

Mondays

The Firehall in Oakville gives up to 2 little chiefs a free kids meal when an adult entree is purchased after 4 pm.

At Boston Pizza Burlington North at 4523 Dundas Street, kids receive a free kids meal every Monday with a minimum $16 purchase.

Tuesdays Kids Eat Free

Visit Denny’s on Tuesdays after 4 pm and kids (10 yrs and under) dine free when you eat in and a regular-priced adult entree is purchased.

Dine in at Burlington’s Skyway Diner and kids eat free with an adult entree purchase.

At East Side Marios, kids 10 and under eat for $2* every Tuesday. To qualify, you need to purchase any adult entrée for $19.99 or more. You can also sign up for their Mini Marios club and get 5 free kids meals.

Wednesdays

Boston Pizza Burlington South at 3120 South Service Road has Kids Eat Free every Wednesday with the purchase of an adult meal.

At Boston Pizza Waterdown, for a $5 donation you can get 5 Free Kids Meals with their Kids Card until June 2025. This location also has Kids Eat Free all September long, dine-in only with a minimum purchase. Kids can also get a Free Kids Meal with the purchase of an adult meal during the month of July when they bring in their report card (conditions may apply, check with the restaurant ahead of your visit).

At some Swiss Chalet locations kids eat free on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult meal when you dine-in.

IKEA Family members get one free kid’s meal for every adult meal purchased in the IKEA Restaurant on Wednesdays. Valid until August 31, 2025. It is free to join IKEA Family.

Every Wednesday at Big Bam Burger Oakville, Kids eat free with the purchase of a regular priced adult entree. Valid for kids 10 year and under, for dine-in or take-out only.

Saturdays

At Joe Dogs Gas Bar kids eat free from 5pm-9pm on Saturdays with every $20 spent.

There are fewer promotions happening on Saturdays. Please let us know if you discover any and we’ll be sure to post it here.

Sunday Deals

Burlington’s Squire’s Pub has kids dine free on Sundays when an adult entree is purchased.

Burlington’s Slye Fox has kids under 10 eating a kids’ meal for free when their adult purchases an entree.

Burlington’s QB’s offers half-price kid’s meals on Sundays with the purchase of an adult entree and drink, plus each child receives a game card for a free play.

Symposium Cafe has a Sunday kids eat free meal for children 12 and under from 2pm to close with the purchase of $15.99 or more.

STACK BBQ in Oakville treats kids 10 and under to a free Short STACK meal with the purchase of an adult entree and beverage.

The Furnace Room in Milton has kids eating free with a $10 purchase from their accompanying adult.

Every Day Deals

East Side Mario’s has a kids club called Mini Marios where, when you sign up online, kids will receive 5 free kids meals and 5 “chillers” (which are slushy drinks).

Montana’s now offers a Kids Club promotion where kids can sign up and get a free kid’s meal on their birthday and a free Kids Cooler upon sign-up. Click here for the details.

Goodfellas Pizzaria invites kids to a free kids dinner offer and beverage every day with a minimum table purchase of $80. Locations in Milton, Oakville, Georgetown and Mississauga.

At Mandarin Burlington, kids 4 and under eat free from the buffet, and kids 5-12 years old are half-price for the buffet.

Kids 11 years and under eat free with an accompanying adult at CYCENE Social Club located in the Holiday Inn Burlington Conference Centre.

Turtle Jack’s Loyalty Club (TLC) members can receive an exclusive offer of buy 3 kids meals, get the 4th meal free, using the TLC app.

Did We Miss a Kids Eat Free Deal?

If you know of a deal not on our list OR visit a restaurant and find out our information is no longer accurate, please contact us. Your feedback helps us keep our list up to date!

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“Would You Rather” – Kids Edition!

Amber Rohal — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 22:28:32 +0000

These are the “Would You Rather” questions for kids I’ve been asking my girls live on our Virtual Pajama Parties on Facebook. You asked for our list, and here it is! We hope they inspire some zany conversations at your home, too!

“Would You Rather” Questions for Kids

Would you rather discover a hidden treasure or discover a living dinosaur?

… go to the movies or go to a waterpark?

… be friends with Superman or Spiderman?

… go bungee jumping or go on the tallest roller coaster?

… go ice skating or tobogganing?

… have really small hands or really big feet?

… read minds or be invisible?

… have French fries or chocolate cake?

… be a police officer or a doctor?

Would you rather play paintball or laser tag?

… play the guitar or the piano?

… not be allowed to watch T.V. for a year or not be allowed to eat any sweets for a year?

… have a car that can fly or go underwater?

… be the smartest person in the world or the best athlete in the world?

… have butterfly wings or a lizard tail?

… have wings but you can’t fly or have gills but you can’t swim underwater?

Would you rather be able to change the colour of your hair whenever you want or be able to change the length of your hair whenever you want?

… live in the sky or under the sea?

… have a hand twice as big or half as small?

… have a pet dinosaur or a pet dragon?

… always have to enter rooms by announcing your name or always have to do cartwheels out?

… eat doughnuts or candy?

… fly a kite or ride on a scooter?

… have an extra finger or an extra toe?

And a few more questions…

Would you rather only be able to wear your swimsuit for the rest of your life or only be able to wear pants and a winter coat?

… eat pizza or chips?

… have a pet hamster or a pet cat?

… eat hamburgers or hot dogs?

… be an art teacher or a physical education teacher?

… eat a dead spider or a live worm?

… have a picnic in a park or on the beach?

… be the worst player on a team that always wins or the best player on a team that always loses?

… have one eye in the middle of your head or two noses?

… see a firework display or go to a concert?

… go water skiing or snow skiing?

… be able to control the weather or have the ability to talk to animals?

… have a bucket stuck on your head or a cement block stuck on your foot?

… jump into a pool of chocolate pudding or a pool of strawberry ice cream?

Would you rather eat pizza for every meal or ice cream for every meal?

… have a green nose or pink ears?

… moo like a cow after every sentence or bark like a dog?

… have a pet panda bear or a pet zebra?

… have lived in the 1870s or in the 1970s?

… shovel snow or rake leaves?

… be the fastest person in the world or can freeze time?

… play soccer or baseball?

… be able to live 100 years in the past or 100 years in the future?

… speak every language or play every instrument?

… live without a TV or without a phone?

… be a bird or a horse?

…have a new cool shirt in your closet every morning or a new pair of shoes once a week?

Would you rather play in the snow in the mountains or in the sand at the beach?

… go to the doctor or the dentist?

… fly a helicopter or a commercial plane?

… have breakfast on the Eiffel tower or dinner in a castle?

… give up eating sweets or give up eating fast food?

… live where it is always dark outside or always light outside?

These 80+ conversation starters were gathered from all over the place! Thank you to the families who shared their favourite questions for kids with us so we could make this article happen. If you’ve got a great way to encourage kiddos to think big, please share it with us in the comments below!

Now Trending…

Once you’re through this list, be sure to check out this other list for even more questions for kids (and adults, too!)

How diverse is your bookshelf? Use these book lists to help spark important conversations around race and racism.

And find all kinds of other free activities and suggestions here.

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5 Must-Dos For Visiting the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Amber Rohal — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, the museum is home to a vast collection of aircraft and artifacts that showcase Canada’s rich aviation history.

Hamilton is home to plenty of great things to do with kids.

Welcome To The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

The museum was founded in 1972 by a group of aviation enthusiasts who wanted to preserve Canada’s aviation heritage. Today, it is one of the largest and most comprehensive aviation museums in Canada. This Hamilton museum’s collection includes over 40 aircraft, ranging from vintage biplanes to modern jet fighters.

I learned so much about these guys all thanks to my amazing tour guide!

What Kind Of Planes Are At The Warplane Heritage Museum?

One of the highlights of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s collection is the Avro Lancaster, a World War II-era heavy bomber that played a crucial role in the war effort. The museum’s Lancaster, known as the “Mynarski Memorial Lancaster” in honour of a Canadian airman who received the Victoria Cross for his actions aboard a Lancaster, is one of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world.

Other notable aircraft in the museum’s collection include the CF-100 Canuck, Canada’s first jet fighter, and the first fighter aircraft to be designed and built in large quantities in Canada. This plane can fly as fast as 550 miles per hour!

Also check out the CF-104 Starfighter, a supersonic jet fighter used by the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Cold War, and the de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, a versatile bush plane that played a key role in Canada’s remote northern regions.

My favourite planes are the Consolidated PBY-5A Canso because of its harrowing story and sentimental touch, and the Avro Lancaster which you’ve possibly seen flying around the skies on occasion. I love the heroic history of the Lancaster. In total 7,377 Lancasters rolled off the production lines in Britain and Canada, during WW II. Today, 17 Lancasters survive around the world, but only two are in flying condition. Aren’t we lucky to have one so close by?

Consolidated PBY-5A Canso at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

More Things To Check Out at The Warplane Museum in Hamilton

In addition to its impressive collection of aircraft, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum also houses a variety of exhibits and displays that provide insight into Canada’s aviation history. The museum’s displays cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of flight in Canada to the role Canadian aircraft played in the war and modern history.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the “RCAF Women’s Division”. This exhibit tells the story of the women who served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. The exhibit features uniforms, equipment, and personal stories of the women who served in a variety of roles, including as pilots, navigators, and radio operators.

I spent a long time checking out the Art For Victory exhibit. It highlights the various ways propaganda posters were used to boost recruitment and keep spirits up during the war. I bet you didn’t know that graphic designers and printing companies served such a big role in the war effort.

Visitors to the museum can also take part in a variety of hands-on experiences, such as sitting in the cockpit of a fighter jet or trying their hand at flying a simulator.

Overall, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in aviation or Canadian history. The museum’s impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits, combined with its interactive experiences, make it a must-visit for anyone near the Hamilton area.

Isn’t she a beaut? This is the Avro Lancaster.

5 Must-Dos When You Visit

1. Accept a Tour Guide – Normally I like to do my own thing, but the amount of experience and knowledge Phillip – my tour guide – shared with me was beyond anything I could have imagined. Guides are very willing to tell you all they know and answer your questions. I wandered around with Phillip for 2.5 hours and loved every minute.

2. Look and Listen – Watch the videos and listen to the recordings. You’ll be transported back in time and feel emersed in your experience.

3. Priase The Women of Aviation! Ladies, we did a LOT more than we know, and a lot more than we get credit for. Female pilots flew all over the world and piloted so many massive aircraft. We generally had a smaller frame, which is perfect for piloting those early planes. Thanks, Phillip for letting me know all about women’s role in the war and aviation.

4. Climb Aboard – Many of the aircraft at the Canadian Warplane Museum have open cockpits and visitors are allowed (and encouraged) to sit in them. Make sure you have a staff member with you and listen to a guide as they tell you all about the buttons and dials. Can you tell how much I loved my guided tour?!

5. Visit The Gift Shop – I know that sounds like a commercial, but they have the coolest t-shirts, mugs and posters for aviation fans. Looking for models? Books? Puzzles? You will find some very unique gift items here.

I have over 100 photos from my visit to the Warplane Museum.

One More Tip…

And last but not least, go slow as you tour through the Hamilton Warplane Museum. There is so much to see and learn, don’t rush your way through. And come back often! Especially in spring and summer when you can see the planes take off and land.

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum – located at the Hamilton International Airport, 9280 Airport Rd, Mount Hope, ON L0R 1W0.

Visit them online: Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Make sure to look for Dusty!

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30 Easy Acts of Kindness for Kids

Amber Rohal — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 16:15:00 +0000

Kids are born loving and kind, and parents like us need to help them nurture and grow their compassion. That sounds like a big job but it’s actually super simple! An act of kindness elicits gratitude—and gratitude is good for you. According to all sorts of social science research, gratitude is associated with increased happiness, well-being, better relationships and even improved health.

“We cannot do great things on this earth, only small things with great love.”
-Mother Teresa

The Science of Kindness reports that when you perform an act of kindness, you trigger a release of oxytocin, the love hormone, which aids in lowering blood pressure and improving our heart health. Oxytocin also increases our self-esteem and optimism, which is extra helpful in our daily lives.

That’s not all random acts of kindness do for you! They can increase our energy and improve our mood, by stimulating the production of serotonin, the same way a medical anti-depressant can. When you are kind to another person, your brains pleasure and reward centres light up with what is called a “helper’s high”.

Give your children these beautiful feelings by spreading some smiles and joy through easy random acts of kindness like these ones.

You can see more of our printables here.

30 Easy acts of kindness for kids PRINTABLES

Amber’s tips for raising kind kids

I am no parenting expert, but I try to work daily on making sure my kids are compassionate and kind. It’s not easy to foster in the times of TikTok, iPads and virtual school, but I try. Here are a few ways I encourage my kids to grow up kinder.

Donate – when we donate to the food bank, I get the kids to shop our cupboards for what we can part with. I also get them to read the list of what is needed, and we add that to our grocery order. They need to see that lunch snacks and baby food are a luxury to some. When we make a financial donation, we ask the kids to help us choose where the money should go.

Volunteer – my almost 14-year-old and I deliver food weekly to folks who need it. We do it so she knows what giving her time and kindness can do for others. We also love any opportunity to clean up a green space or connect with seniors in our community. The appreciation that organizers show to volunteers is unmatched and encourages more volunteering.

Encourage Empathy – I have strong views on certain topics, but instead of pushing those views on my kids, I ask them open-ended questions to spark deeper thinking. “I wonder why the food bank needs formula?” Then I show them the price of formula and diapers and we do a quick calculation to see how long someone would have to work to afford those two items. They realize that not everyone can afford what they have, and they not only learn to relate to others but to appreciate their blessings.

Use This List – These ideas for acts of kindness for kids were brainstormed by our whole family! It was a great learning exercise to see what acts of kindness we could perform together. Guess what? There are so many! And we need kindness now more than ever.

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Our 10 Favourite Things to Do with Kids in Niagara Falls, Ontario

Amber Rohal — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 16:09:00 +0000

Your summer vacation plans should include a visit to Canada’s most popular tourist destination! Niagara Falls, Ontario, is an exciting destination that offers an array of activities for the entire family. We recapped our absolute favourite things to do with kids in Niagara Falls to help you plan your visit.

We have visited for the day and for long weekends, so we have the expertise! Many attractions will keep kids entertained and create lasting memories for your family.

Start The Car! Enjoy these day trips and local attractions worth visiting:

Go Wild at Safari Niagara!
Take a train and a ferry to Centreville.
Ride this antique carousel for only a nickel!

The 10 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls…According To Us

Experience the Power of Niagara Falls: No trip to Niagara Falls Canada is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring power of the falls up close. Take a boat tour on the iconic Hornblower Niagara Cruises for an unforgettable adventure to the Horseshoe Falls. The thunderous roar and misty spray you experience from the observation deck will leave you amazed!

Visit Clifton Hill: Clifton Hill is a vibrant and bustling street filled with exciting attractions for kids of all ages. Explore the “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” Museum, play games at the Great Canadian Midway and enjoy thrilling rides at the Niagara SkyWheel. Clifton Hill offers non-stop entertainment and is overflowing with fun things to do in Niagara Falls.

Journey Behind the Falls: For a unique perspective, head to Journey Behind the Falls. This thrilling attraction takes you through tunnels behind the waterfall, providing an incredible view of the cascading water. Guests will be captivated by the power and beauty of Niagara Falls from this unique vantage point.

Butterfly Conservatory: Escape into the tropical paradise of the Butterfly Conservatory, where children can interact with thousands of colourful butterflies. Stroll through lush gardens, learn about different butterfly species, and even witness the magical moment when a butterfly emerges from its cocoon. This enchanting experience is both educational and captivating.

Whiz Around Niagara Speedway Go-Karts: The recent addition to the Falls is an exhilarating thrill ride. It offers high-speed fun on a four-story elevated track, featuring hairpin turns and thrilling twists. The go-karts are equipped with 200cc engines, ensuring a thrilling ride for all ages. Visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area while racing. It’s a must-visit destination for families, friends, and adrenaline junkies alike.

More Of Our Favourite Falls Adventures

Ride The Niagara SkyWheel: The Niagara SkyWheel, located on Clifton Hill, givers its riders breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding area. Step into one of the climate-controlled gondolas and enjoy a leisurely ride high above the city. Kids will love the panoramic vistas and the chance to see Niagara Falls from a new perspective.

Visit Bird Kingdom: Bird Kingdom is the largest indoor free-flying aviary in the world, featuring over 400 birds from around the world. Kids can explore the lush rainforest setting, watch colourful birds in flight, and even have close encounters with parrots and other friendly feathered friends. Whether you are in Niagara Falls for the day or longer, make sure to stop at Bird Kingdom. In our opinion, it’s one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls.

Ride The Whirlpool Aero Car: Take a thrilling ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car, suspended high above the Niagara River. The cable car offers breathtaking views of the swirling whirlpool and the stunning rapids. This unique attraction is sure to create lasting memories for kids and adults alike.

Play Golf with Dinosaurs: Dinosaur Adventure Golf is a prehistoric mini-golf adventure with life-sized dinosaurs. This is one of our favourite things to do in Niagara Falls Canada, and it is the main reason we visit every year. The course is beautifully themed, with waterfalls, lush landscaping, and challenging holes. It’s a great activity for the whole family to enjoy together.

Ride The Rollercoaster: House of Frankenstein’s rollercoaster sits 4 stories off the ground and is full of thrills and speed! Riders sit in coffins on this monstrously great ride. It’s Canada’s only rooftop coaster!

More Tips For Visiting Niagara Falls With Kids

Book A Room With A Falls View. Hotels are a little more expensive in the heart of the area, but the views are definitely worth it, especially if this is your first visit. At night, the falls are illuminated and look gorgeous from high up in your hotel room. Every night, from Friday, May 19th until Monday, October 9th fireworks light up the night sky at 10 pm.

Eat Outside The Core. Like all popular tourist destinations, prices can be higher when you eat right in Clifton Hill and Niagara Falls core. We love taking a short drive or walking to eat kist outside the busy area. Our favourite is The Flying Saucer Restaurant because of its kitch-y theme and good old home cooking. I recommend the meatloaf!

Bring Your Own Food. One way we save money is by bringing our own picnic lunches and eating on the lawns of the Niagara Parks. The scenery is lovely and the price is right.

Be Ready To Walk. You can drive, but the congestion at the base of Clifton Hill isn’t worth it if you ask me. Tie up your walking shoes and bring a wagon or stroller for the kids. There is so much to see that you won’t mind walking, but you will tally up a lot of steps!

Parking Tip!

Thanks to my friend Alison, I just found out about the Niagara Parks Parking Pass. It’s $45 and gives 2 vehicles 1 year of parking! You can use it to park at a variety of local attractions, gardens, wineries and more!

Niagara Falls offers a long list of unique attractions and activities that the whole family will love. From the breathtaking power of the falls to interactive museums, thrilling rides, and unique wildlife encounters, there’s something for every child to enjoy. So, plan your family trip to Niagara Falls, and get ready for an adventure-packed experience that your kids will cherish forever.

Find The Best Hotels Near Niagara Falls

Find your next hotel in Niagara Falls by reading reviews here on Trip Advisor and if you’re ready to book, check out Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.com.

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Where To Donate Your Stuff Near Hamilton and Burlington

Amber Rohal — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 21:39:55 +0000

If you’ve been cleaning and purging your no-longer-loved items, we know exactly where to take your goods to donate them in the Hamilton and Burlington areas. Let’s give those pieces a second chance at life!

Once I had kids, I felt like I was doing one long and continuous Spring Clean. If you’ve got a bag, a box, or a big load of things that need to leave your house but you don’t want to see them end up on the landfill, here are amazing ways to get them out of your house.

Donation Drop Off Locations in Hamilton and Burlington

These are the top spots our parent communities recommend for donating your gently used items. If you know of another great spot that accepts donations, please let us know and we will include them. Check the websites (linked) to see what their hours and collections are like right now.

Compassion Society of Halton is a top recommendation for where to donate in Burlington. They’re located at 1881 Fairview St in Burlington

The Baby Depot collects, recycles and distributes a year’s worth of gently used baby clothing and essential gear to families in need in the Hamilton area.

Mission Thrift Store has a location in Hamilton, Burlington, Dundas, Mississauga, Guelph, Beamsville, Kitchener and more national locations, too.

Halton Women’s Place has an ongoing list on their website for what NEW items they need to support their clients, and they have clothing donation bins that you can access anytime at 2211 Brant Street in Burlington.

Good Shepherd Shelter and Centre in Hamilton accepts food donations, clothing, and home items. They always have a full list of what they are accepting here on their website.

Helping Hands Street Mission normally accepts donations of all men’s and women’s seasonal clothing items, household linens, new underwear, and personal hygiene items.

re-Source Thrift Store in Hamilton is a volunteer-run thrift store raising money in support of Christian education and various other local causes.

Facebook Local Free/For Sale Groups

These groups are perfect if you want to give something away but don’t want to make a trip to drop it off anywhere. They’re also great when you’ve only got an item or two to get rid of. I’ll link below a couple that I am a part of, but be sure to read the rules and give/take items safely.

FREEreCYCLE Burlington/oakville/hamilton Freecycle group

Mamas for Mamas-Burlington/Oakville

Plus, your neighbourhood definitely has a dedicated Facebook group and sharing this with your immediate community is an ideal way to meet the neighbours and so easy. Especially right now – they can do a contactless porch pick up on one of their daily walks!

Pick Up Services for Donations in Burlington and Hamilton

Diabetes Clothes Line aka Diabetes Collection operates in most cities in Canada. You can book a pickup on their website (during normal times) and choose your pickup date. Then you leave your marked items on your front stoop and they pick them up. Items are then sold to Value Village and Diabetes Canada is paid based upon the volume of goods delivered.

Kidney Clothes (part of Kidney Foundation) clothing and used item donation pickups are available in certain areas. Or host a clothing drive with your school or community group and raise funds based on your collection.

The Ontario Federation of Cerebral Palsy has a few neighbourhoods they collect in. You can find their info here.

Read More: Do Some Good This Earth Day

Specialty Donations

Kidney Car – Donate your car to the Kidney Foundation

Stuffies 4 Smiles gives those furry friends a new home. This kid-led business is a registered charity and they have delivered over 600 birthday packs to kids since last March.

The Habitat for Humanity ReStore accepts household items and kitchen reconstruction items (countertops, sinks, cupboards, etc.)

The Rotary Furniture Bank in Burlington collects furniture and housewares for people making a fresh start after leaving a crisis situation.

If you know of other great ways to donate your things in Burlington and Hamilton please let us know in the comments below.

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The Best Toy Stores in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville

Amber Rohal — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 17:37:49 +0000

Welcome to Toy Haven! Our directory is your passport to a world of play, showcasing the charm and uniqueness of local independent toy stores near you. Immerse yourself in a curated collection of toys that go beyond the ordinary, handpicked for their quality, creativity, and educational value.

From classic favorites to innovative gems you can give as great birthday gifts, these stores are the heartbeat of our community, fostering connections and delivering personalized experiences. Join us in supporting these small businesses, adding vibrancy to our neighborhood, and creating lasting childhood memories. Let the adventure begin as you explore the diverse and enchanting world of children’s toy stores right in your own backyard!

The Best Toy Stores in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville

Hobby and Toy Central

Cheryl founded Hobby and Toy in 1985 because she loves the thrill of seeing someone find the perfect product! Hobby and Toy is a treasure trove of models, accessories, and supplies for new and experienced hobbyists but also quality toys that inspire creativity and developing minds.

This is THE place to go for Playmobil and Brio train sets – you won’t find a better selection anywhere! Hobby and Toy has expanded to three stores across SW Ontario, but the nearest is in Mapleview Mall.

Mapleview Mall, 900 Maple Ave, Burlington

https://www.hobbyandtoycentral.com/

Learning Tree Educational Store

Owned and operated by an educator who is passionate about learning at all ages. All of the staff go above and beyond with their service. I go in often looking for new and unique board games, birthday presents, and tools to support my kids learning. They carry the highest quality in educational toys, puzzles, games, resources and books.

1450 Headon Rd, Burlington

https://www.learningtreecanada.com/toys-games/

Jr Toy

A toy shop sharing space with a pool supplier seems odd, and you do have to like the smell of chlorine, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you are looking for educational, science and learning toys. The staff have always been friendly and able to offer ideas for gifts, and this is the best selection we’ve found for original science and building kits.

They have a good selection of family games as well, again, some we have not seen anywhere else. As a small store, not everything on the website is in stock locally, but online purchases can be returned to the store, saving you shipping.

4265 Fairview St, Unit 2, Burlington

https://www.jrtoycanada.ca/

Skycraft Hobbies

We met some lovely gentlemen down at Spencer Smith last summer who told us about their boats, and helped the kids figure out their remote controls. They were so friendly and recommended Skycraft to us as somewhere to start if we were interested in models and remote control toys. If it floats, drives or flies they have it! There’s always someone knowledgeable there and they love talking to youngsters and sharing their passion.

115 Plains Rd East, Burlington

https://www.skycrafthobbies.com/

Snugglebugz

Not strictly a toy store but Snugglebugz does carry a range of sustainable, eco-friendly baby toys which encourage babies to play and learn. Made from sustainable sources with non-toxic paints, brands like Hape and Plan Toys are all here under one roof. While we are well out of the baby phase Snugglebugz is one of my favourite children’s stores and I still love looking at the nursery displays and getting nostalgic!

3245 Fairview St, Burlington

https://snugglebugz.ca

KSM Toys

If you are looking for something unique for younger children, try KSM toys. Many of their brands are European (all tested and approved for sale in Canada) and we particularly like their range of eco-friendly construction vehicles that use reclaimed wood and less plastic.

100 South Service Rd Unit 37 / 38, Burlington

https://shop.ksmtoys.com/

Citizen Kid

With its big windows and kid friendly displays, walking into this store makes me immediately feel cozy and at home (but it’s much tidier than my house). The family behind Citizen Kid are proud to carry a number of sustainable, non-toxic brands, so whether you are looking for toys or crafts there’s always something safe to use, as well as beautifully made and long lasting.

230 Locke St South, Hamilton

https://citizenkid.ca/

Simply Green Baby

Started by two sisters in 2010, Liz and Ann work hard to bring the best natural and eco-friendly products to the Oakville area, and the store carries toys, cleaning and beauty products as well.

They thoroughly research not just the product, but the packaging used and the background of the manufacturers to support those that practice fair trade, social responsibility and environmental awareness. The whole store is so calming and inviting it’s an experience just to shop there!

67 Bronte Road Unit 4&5, Oakville

https://simplygreenbaby.com/

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Free and Cheap Things To Do With Kids In Hamilton

Amber Rohal — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Having fun with kids in tow doesn’t have to cost a lot with these free and cheap things to do in Hamilton.

Hamilton is such an excellent place to explore with kids. The best part is that you can have weeks of fun in the Steel Town without spending any (or much) money at all. Read on to find our best ideas for free and Fun Things to do in Hamilton with Kids.

Skate The Loop in Waterdown

Free | 200 Hamilton St N, Waterdown, ON. | website

The free ice skating loop at Waterdown Memorial Park makes ice skating so much more enjoyable. It is open all winter as long as the ice is frozen and is free to use. There’s a heated building with restrooms to warm up and change into your skates. Parking is great, too.

Hamilton Waterfalls

Cheap | various addresses | website

There are SO many beautiful waterfalls to see in Hamilton, 100 in fact! And most of them are extremely accessible even with little kids. Here are some of the ones we love the most. Read a little about each waterfall at the link above and plan a great outing.

Felker’s Falls
Tiffany Falls (paid parking)
Devil’s Punchbowl (paid parking)
Albion Falls
Smokey Hollow Falls
Sherman Falls (paid parking)
Borer’s Falls
Hermitage Cascade (paid parking)
Webster Falls (reservation required long weekends May to Sept.)
Tew Falls (reservation required long weekends May to Sept.)

Bayfront Park

Free | 200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton, ON

Bayfront Park is located at the base of Harbourfront Drive near Hamilton’s downtown core. A beautiful scenic walk along the waterfront along the paved paths makes for a great stroller-friendly walk with friends and kids. In the warm weather, you can dip your toes into the lake, and in winter you can watch the local birds or enjoy the paved path. It is linked to Pier 4 Park, a great spot to play, by Macassa Bay Walkway.

Walk, Run or Stroll Chedoke Radial Trail

Free

We love this walk in any season. It’s packed gravel so easy to push a stroller along and easy to walk for our family of 4. The incline is enough that you notice it but not enough that it wipes you out. Plus, the views from the top are gorgeous, and the scenery on the way keeps the kids engaged and moving forward. Did I mention the waterfall?! We park at the Chedoke Golf Course (563 Aberdeen Ave).

Gage Park

Free | 200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton, ON

This is a classic Hamilton park and popular destination for so many families, events and more. A HUGE park with lots to see including outdoor gardens and beautiful water fountains. It also has a large parking lot and a huge walking path all along the outside of the park. Weaving through the park are gravel paths that my kids love biking on. The playground was recently renovated and includes some unique play pieces. Bring your swimsuit in the summer and kids will spend hours in the splash pad.

Visit The Ottawa Street Farmer’s Market

Cheap | 3 Britannia Drive, Hamilton, ON | website

Ottawa Street Farmer’s Market has been a staple in the neighbourhood for over 65 years! The Market is open Saturdays year-round. There are 20+ vendors of local, farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, flowers, honey, eggs, syrup and baked goods. All vendors live within 100 km of the market, so you’re definitely getting local items. It’s got loads of potential for learning colours, the names of fruits/veggies and counting, for little ones. And kettle popcorn for all!

Have You Seen The Rail Trail Rock Art?

Free | 20 Kimberly Dr, Hamilton, ON

If you didn’t already know, there is a guy along the Rail Trail by the Kennilworth stairs who started doing rock art to give us hope during COVID times. He has some pretty incredible pieces that he’s done. He only uses items he finds in nature and brings them to life. Your kids will definitely be inspired to make their own nature art when they get home.

Hamilton Farmer’s Market

Cheap | 35 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON | website

Your senses will be delighted when you wander the stalls at the Hamilton Farmer’s Market. Kids will love seeing real bakers, makers and farmers. Treat yourselves to some fresh cheese, locally-grown products and baked goods fresh from the oven.

Visit The First Tim Horton’s Store – Free (or the cost of a double chocolate doughnut)

Cheap | 65 Ottawa Street, Hamilton

DYK that Tim Horton’s opened their very first coffee shop on Ottawa St. in Hamilton? It’s been standing in the same place since May 17, 1964, and is home to some authentic Timmie’s artifacts and nostalgia.

Hanes Corn Maze

Hanes Corn Maze has a ton of fun things to do for kids including both a large corn maze for adults or a small one for kids. The farm is also home to lots of adorable farm animals to see. I found Hanes to have the best variety of animals to check out. They had horses, pigs, chickens, goats, cows, sheep, ducks and bunnies. They also have a bakery with some very delicious treats. There’s a small fee to get in and kids under 2 are free!

Gage Park Greenhouse

Free | 200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton, ON

The Gage Park Greenhouse is open year-round and is a beautiful 14,000 square foot indoor spot to check out some pretty amazing tropical plants. Their variety will surprise you and you’re kids will see plants they’ve never seen before! It’s a free and tropical escape. Be sure to look in the pond for fish and turtles. Stroller-friendly.

Rock ChapAlpacas

Rock Chapel Road, Dundas, ON, Canada, L9H 5E2

Follow the Rock ChapAlpacas Facebook site to Keep up to date with alpaca adventures, events, and products – you’ll find calendars, workshops, yoga and more. Message the farm for details.

More Things To Do In Hamilton

More Free And Cheap Ideas Kids Will Love

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30 Breakfast Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ideas Your Family WIll Love

Amber Rohal — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:52:13 +0000

There’s one thing you won’t want to do without on Christmas morning: breakfast! Whether it’s a big breakfast or a quick bite to fuel you up for the festivities ahead, these Christmas breakfast ideas are perfect for whatever your holiday has in store.

Kick-start your festive celebrations with a special Christmas casserole for breakfast. We’ve compiled a list of 30 Christmas breakfast recipes that are sure to impress your family and guests. Start your morning off with a stack of fluffy pancakes or waffles topped with cranberry sauce or maple syrup. Or, if you prefer something savoury, try out some of the casserole recipes in this list.

Some of the recipes are quick and easy, while others require a bit more time and effort. But all of them are sure to impress your family and guests.

CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST CASSEROLE (OVERNIGHT RECIPE)

Photo: thissillygirlskitchen

A hearty dish filled with savoury sausage, crispy bacon, colourful bell peppers, and pockets of creamy cheese. This casserole is not only the perfect breakfast dish for Christmas day, but it’s also the ideal treat to enjoy with the whole family any day of the year. Mother’s Day maybe?

Get the full recipe from This Silly Girl’s Kitchen

GRINCH PANCAKES (FROM SCRATCH!)

Photo: lynnswayoflife

A super easy breakfast, these Grinch pancakes are so fun to make during the holiday season! With just a hint of vanilla, the kids will love opening presents and enjoying these pancakes with maple syrup on Christmas morning!

Get the full recipe from Lynn’s Way Of Life

SLOW COOKER OVERNIGHT BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Photo: xoxobella

This easy holiday breakfast or brunch recipe would be perfect for your upcoming holiday menu. It’s a leftover ham and egg bake with vegetables, cheese, hash browns, and more. You can either prepare the slow cooker overnight breakfast casserole the night before or early on Christmas morning—a warming dish with plenty of amazing flavours.

Get the full recipe from Xoxo Bella

CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Photo: plattertalk

Christmas breakfast is not usually the first thing on everyone’s mind when the holiday rolls around. That all changes very quickly on Christmas morning when this overnight easy breakfast casserole is about to come out of the oven.

Get the full recipe from Platter Talk

GRINCH BREAKFAST CASSEROLE RECIPE

Photo: 3boysandadog

This Grinch Breakfast Casserole Recipe is perfect for Christmas morning! Grab the easy ingredients and make this hearty dish. The perfect way to kick off the holiday festivities!If you love making casserole dishes, you can’t go wrong with this one. The fun colours remind me of the Grinch, and the flavour makes it one of my favourites.

Get the full recipe from 3 Boys And A Dog

EGGNOG CINNAMON ROLLS

Photo: corriecooks

Christmas mornings have a unique charm, with families gathered, presents exchanged, and the unmistakable scent of festive treats wafting through the air. What better way to amplify this cozy feeling than with a plateful of warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls?

Get the full recipe from Corrie Cooks

EASY GINGERBREAD PANCAKES: CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST

Photo: savvymamalifestyle.

Wake up to a festive Christmas breakfast with this delicious Gingerbread Pancakes recipe. They’re homemade and simple to put together. You’ll taste all of the wonderful flavours of traditional gingerbread: ginger, cinnamon, and molasses.

Get the full recipe from Savvy Mama Lifestyle

KETO GINGERBREAD PANCAKES

Photo: ketofocus

A delicious keto breakfast for Christmas morning or just when you have a hankering for gingerbread but don’t want to have a cookie first thing in the morning. Consider making these pancakes on Christmas morning. They are full of yummy gingerbread flavour and are especially good when topped with fresh whipped cream.

Get the full recipe from Keto Focus

FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Photo: saltysidedish

Elevate your mornings with the undeniable charm of our French Toast Casserole. One of the biggest appeals of this dish is its straightforwardness. Prepare it the night before, and on a busy morning all you need to do is bake!

Get the full recipe from Salty Side Dish

CINNAMON ROLL FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Photo: dinneratthezoo

This cinnamon roll french toast casserole is always the star of the show. This easy Christmas breakfast casserole is super easy to make and can even be assembled the night before. This recipe is canned cinnamon rolls coated in milk and eggs, baked to golden brown, and topped with icing. It’s also the perfect choice for Christmas morning breakfast.

Get the full recipe from Dinner At The Zoo

SPINACH & FETA EGGS IN A NEST RECIPE

Photo: weekdaypescatarian

This sophisticated take on the classic eggs in a nest is a delightful way to serve a delicious breakfast or brunch this weekend. It’s still a quick and easy breakfast, but special enough for Christmas mornings or Mother’s Day Brunch.

Get the full recipe from Weekday Pescatarian

HAM EGG AND CHEESE CASSEROLE

Photo: belleofthekitchen

Ham Egg and Cheese Casserole is easy to make and perfect for a weekend or holiday breakfast. It’s truly perfect for Christmas breakfast, Easter brunch, or anything in between! You can make and serve it right away, or prep and refrigerate overnight.

Get the full recipe from Belle Of The Kitchen

BROWN BUTTER CINNAMON ROLLS

Photo: beginwithbalance

These brown butter cinnamon rolls are a bite of heaven. You’ll brown butter and add it to both the filling and the frosting, taking the brown butter flavour to the next level. They’re great for a special occasion like Christmas morning or to have for a special breakfast or dessert.

Get the full recipe from Begin With Balance

FLUFFY EGGNOG PANCAKES (SO EASY!)

Photo: lynnswayoflife

These fluffy Eggnog pancakes are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and made with ingredients you probably already have at home! These eggnog pancakes are perfect to eat throughout the holiday season or make fresh on Christmas morning!

Get the full recipe from Lynn’s Way Of Life

EGGNOG FRENCH TOAST

Photo: iheartnaptime

This easy eggnog french toast is the perfect recipe for your Christmas morning or holiday brunch! It’s golden, rich, and full of delicious eggnog flavour. It’s fun to enjoy other variations…especially during the holidays! This french toast using eggnog is always on rotation during the Christmas season,

Get the full recipe from I Heart Naptime

EGGNOG STICKY BUNS

Photo: celebrationgeneration

If you’re looking to use up some eggnog, these eggnog sticky buns are a great way to do so! Full of flavour… and calories. SO MANY CALORIES. The perfect Christmas morning brunch offering! Starting with my base dough, we designed it from there.

Get the full recipe from Celebration Generation

OVERNIGHT EGGNOG WAFFLE CASSEROLE

Photo: findingzest

On Christmas morning do you enjoy spending a lot of time in the kitchen or with your family in front of the tree? This casserole definitely firms up the longer it sits. There was no liquid whatsoever in the bottom of the dish and yet it is still very moist.

Get the full recipe from Finding Zest

EGGNOG FRENCH TOAST

Photo: lovefromtheoven

Eggnog French Toast is the holiday breakfast you don’t want to skip out on! Just imagine the best French toast you’ve ever had, except the milk is replaced with eggnog. If you’re stumped on what to make Christmas morning, this Egg Nog French Toast is a perfect fit. Ready in under 30 minutes, simple to make, festive, and of course delicious!

Get the full recipe from Love From The Oven

EGGNOG FRENCH TOAST WITH CRANBERRY SYRUP

Photo: artfrommytable

Eggnog French Toast ~enjoy the warm flavours of eggnog in the form of delicious French toast, topped with cranberry syrup. This would be a perfect Christmas morning breakfast. Let me introduce you to Eggnog French Toast with Cranberry Syrup!

Get the full recipe from Art From My Table

THE BEST EGGNOG PANCAKES

Photo: yuminthekitchen

These homemade eggnog pancakes are made with all the basic pancake ingredients plus some eggnog and a few festive spices. They are perfect for Christmas breakfast or any other time during the holiday season. It makes for a wonderful Christmas breakfast.

Get the full recipe from Yum In The Kitchen

EGGNOG PANCAKES

Photo: acedarspoon

During the holiday season start your day off with these Eggnog Pancakes. You will love these warm, spiced pancakes on Christmas morning or even for a festive brunch. Top with a cinnamon whipped cream and warm maple syrup. These pancakes have a subtle flavour of eggnog and warm nutmeg.

Get the full recipe from A Cedar Spoon

CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE (WIFE SAVER)

Photo: foodmeanderings

This Wife Saver recipe is a savoury overnight breakfast casserole with layers of bread, ham, cheese, eggs, and cornflakes. It’s easy to throw together Christmas Eve and pop in the oven the next day for a delicious Christmas morning breakfast, brunch, or any holiday morning!

Get the full recipe from Food Meanderings

CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Photo: lovinglivinglancaster

Christmas morning is almost here! With this festive morning happening soon, you need to have something amazing on hand. This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is everything a family could ask for in the morning. This recipe calls for 6-7 ingredients, which means the recipe itself will be simple!

Get the full recipe from Loving Living Lancaster

EASY & DELICIOUS CHRISTMAS AIR FRYER DONUTS WITH BISCUITS

Photo: twokidsandacoupon

Did you know that you can make delicious air fryer donuts with biscuits for Christmas or anytime? Do you have a favourite breakfast that you make for Christmas morning? To make these donuts, you’ll need a can of biscuits, butter-flavoured cooking spray, frosting, and sprinkles.

Get the full recipe from Two Kids And A Coupon

CHRISTMAS MORNING SCONES (VANILLA BEAN, NUTMEG, AND ROSEMARY-SCENTED SCONES)

Photo: anediblemosaic

This easy-to-make Christmas Morning Scones recipe (aka Vanilla Bean, Nutmeg, and Rosemary-Scented Scones) captures the flavour and aroma of Christmas morning! They have a unique, festive flavour, are easy to make, and will become your family’s new favourite holiday morning tradition.

Get the full recipe from An Edible Mosaic

VEGAN BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Photo: veggiessavetheday

This comforting family favourite is easy to make in under an hour. It’s perfect for weekend brunches, holidays, and make-ahead meals. You can make it in advance for grab-and-go breakfasts. And it’s the perfect dish to serve Christmas morning.

Get the full recipe from Veggies Save The Day

CHRISTMAS MORNING BAKED EGGS IN RAMEKINS

Photo: seasonedkitchen

Christmas Morning Eggs are quick and easy to prepare – and oh, so scrumptious! I can’t recall a Christmas morning without them. Christmas Morning Eggs are super easy to prepare, and can even be put together the night before. Simply spread shredded Cheddar cheese in individual ramekins.

Get the full recipe from Seasoned Kitchen

CHRISTMAS CROISSANT BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Photo: ericasrecipes

Christmas Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a vegetarian breakfast casserole assembled in advance so all you have to do is bake in the morning. With mushrooms, red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and three kinds of cheese, this decadent croissant egg bake will become a family favourite Christmas breakfast casserole for all.

Get the full recipe from Ericas Recipes

EASY QUICHE FLORENTINE

Photo: thedizzycook

This easy quiche Florentine is the easiest spinach and goat cheese quiche you’ll ever make because you don’t even have to make a crust! Minimal ingredients, quick prep, and awesome flavours make this a great breakfast. Not only is it simple for a beginner cook, but this quiche Florentine recipe is perfect for meal prep for brunch, Christmas, or Easter.

Get the full recipe from The Dizzy Cook

BRIOCHE FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Photo: afullliving

Indulge in this scrumptious Easy Brioche French Toast Casserole Recipe, perfect for those who crave instant gratification! This easy French toast bake is the best way to make good use of stale bread. Perfect for a holiday morning, like Christmas morning breakfast.

Get the full recipe from A Full Living

Are You Hungry Yet?

You now have 30 delicious Christmas breakfast recipes to choose from for your holiday morning meal. From sweet to savoury, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re in the mood for classic pancakes or want to try something new like eggnog French toast, these recipes will make your Christmas morning extra special.

Hot Off The Presses!

The post 30 Breakfast Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ideas Your Family WIll Love appeared first on Active Parents.

Where To Play Laser Tag – Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, KW Area

Amber Rohal — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 18:23:33 +0000

Looking for laser tag? Our round up will highlight all of the local places to challenge your friends and people you’ve never met before. Whether you’re planning for a laser tag birthday party or are looking for some drop-in high-energy action, here is where you can find the best laser tag near you.

What Laser Tag Exactly?

Laser tag is a high energy indoor game that combines strategy, teamwork, and adrenaline-pumping action. Players gear up with vests and handheld laser devices, both provided by the location you visit. Players then make their way into a dimly lit, maze-like arena looking for the opposing team members.

The primary goal? Tag opponents with laser beams while dodging incoming fire to rack up points and claim victory. It’s a thrilling experience that is fit for various ages, making it a popular choice for birthday parties or just a fun indoor activity.

Read More: Do you love the challenge these destinations offer? You may also love spending the afternoon at one of these escape rooms.

Looking For Laser Quest?

Laser Quest was a very popular destination for anyone interested in playing some laser tag in Mississauga/Oakville. Sadly, with the varying restrictions and closures, Laser Quest closed all of their facilities in September 2020.

Read More: keep the excitment going when you go head to head at one of these cool video game arcades.

How Old Must Players Be?

Participation isn’t restricted by age. Your kids and adult will enjoy themselves in the excitement of laser tag. One things to keep in mind is that the laser blasters and vests can be heavy for younger kids. My girls were small, and the Planet Laser tag equipment was a little on the heavy side for them at 8 years old. I always suggest parents visit a laser tag centre before you commit to an event so you can test out the weight of the equipment.

Whether you’re a group of friends, a family looking for an awesome outing, or someone planning a fun team-building activity, lasertag offers an experience everyone can enjoy. Players strategize, communicate, and make their way through the maze-like battlegrounds, relying on teamwork and quick decision-making.

Each of these laser tag arenas make great destinations for a family outing or a birthday party or give a gift card for the ultimate experience gift.

Laser Tag Birthday Party For kids?

Birthday parties these arenas are a hit for numerous reasons. They offer a super cool game play setting where your birthday kid and their friends can enjoy friendly competition. The immersive nature of the game ensures everyone gets involved, creating lasting memories.

Tag venues often provide party packages, including private gaming sessions, reserved party areas for cake and celebrations, and sometimes even additional perks like arcade games or special effects lighting. I’ve held my kids parties at Planet Laser in Oakville and Splitsville laser tag in Burlington and recommend them both. We had a great time and so did our guests.

Indoor laser tag centers provide a controlled environment for gameplay, which makes them very popular locations to host birthday parties in the winter and rainy spring months. We’ve been to arenas that have cool themes and obstacles to use to your advantage, adding an extra layer of thrill to the gaming experience. The dimly lit settings with glow in the dark black lights and maze-like layout create an immersive and exciting feel for players.

Ultimate Laser Tag in Oakville, Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara and Laser tag in Kitchener Waterloo Region

In this list, you’ll find a round up of all the local options, each offering its own distinct challenges and themes. Whether you’re a newbie seeking an first-time visit to laser tag in Niagara Falls or a seasoned enthusiast looking for a new place to challenge you, these spots promise an exciting time.

Activate Indoor Gaming Experience

High-energy, massive indoor gaming experience. Read about our visit here.

Cameron Speedway and Amusements

A public mile-long go-kart track with two overpasses and underpasses, five paintball fields, a four-sided rock wall, laser tag arena and target range.

Epicplayzone

Milton’s largest active play zone for kids and adults alike. Great for the whole family. Epic Play Zone offers Laser Tag, Indoor Playground, Arcade, Birthday Parties.

Family Fun Centre Laser Tag

Featuring a multi-level, state of the art laser tag arena, and the latest selection of arcade and redemption games

GYGO - Get Your Game On

A 26,000-square foot active play experience with a wide range of indoor and outdoor games and activations, like NERF Challenge, mini golf, laser tag, go-karts and more.

Kingpin Cambridge

Bowing, laser tag, an arcade, and a giant, multi-level play structure means kids of all ages can be entertained at Kingpin! Ask about their birthday party packages!

Kingpin Cambridge Laser Tag

Experience a laser tag like no other! Choose from a variety of missions and player modes to suit your skill levels. You’ll even know if your team is currently winning as the entire arena will don your teams colour in full LED illumination!

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.

Planet Laser

Planet Laser is Oakville’s ultimate spot for family fun and entertainment, featuring a unique multi-level laser tag arena and competitive play map. Planet Laser is “THE PLACE” to engage interactively with your friends and family. The fun doesn’t end with just Laser Tag…enjoy other activities too, including arcade games & much more! There is no need to make a reservation to just drop in and have some fun.

Splitsville Bowling, Laser Tag and Arcade - Burlington

Strike it up on 24 lanes of 10-pin bowling at Splitsville Burlington! With our state-of-the-art scoring system and interactive game options, glow-in-the-dark bowling, and VIP lanes, you can take your bowling experience to the next level. Ready for even more excitement? Our Burlington location features an arcade and Burlington’s only laser tag arena. Plus, enjoy food and drinks at our full-service lounge or order right at the lanes.

Zorbit Sports

Burlington’s only purpose-built indoor Zorb Battle, Archery Battle and Nerf() Battle facility. We aim to provide the ultimate events for any occasion - Birthdays, Team Celebrations, Camps and more!

Whether you’re dodging unreliable weather or just want something new to try, here are our latest 8 ideas for indoor things to do with kids. You can find all of our Indoor Activities here.

The post Where To Play Laser Tag – Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, KW Area appeared first on Active Parents.

The Best Escape Rooms Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara Area

Amber Rohal — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 03:09:19 +0000

Explore the immersive escape rooms across Hamilton, Burlington, and the Niagara. Whether it’s a family outing, a team-building exercise for colleagues, or a fun hangout with friends, these interactive adventures create lasting memories and provide a shared experience that encourages communication and cooperation.

What is an Escape Room?

Escape rooms are challenges where players solve puzzles and riddles to make their way through a themed plot and try to ‘escape’ within a set time limit. These games have themes that cater to every interest, offering cool challenges perfect for friends, families, or coworkers looking for great entertainment.

Players being their adventure locked in a room together. The rooms are often themed around mysteries, historical events, or science fiction settings. What is the objective? To solve the clues, decipher the codes, and piece together the puzzles cleverly hidden throughout the room.

With a time limit adding suspense, teamwork and quick thinking become essential to successfully completing the mission.

How Many People Do You Need?

The number of players you will need will vary based on the room you choose to complete, but these locations below offer games set up for 2 to 12 people. Normally 4 to 6 players is the magic number which allows for lots of brain power, without too many cooks in the kitchen.

What makes escape rooms such a fantastic activity is their ability to foster teamwork and problem-solving skills in an enjoyable setting. Participants must communicate effectively, pooling their diverse strengths and perspectives to conquer challenges. These rooms require critical thinking, encouraging players to approach problems creatively and work under pressure.

Moreover, escape rooms serve as an excellent group activity.

Read More: Do you love the challenge these destinations offer? You may also love spending the afternoon at one of these board game cafes.

How Old Must Players Be?

Rooms are challenging and mainly created for teens and adults. KW Escape Rooms in Kitchener suggests their rooms are for 12 years and older, which in the summertime they offer outdoor escape rooms that start at 8 years old. Alcatraz Escape Room in Hamilton offer party packages recommended for kids 10 and up.

Confundrum Escape Rooms in Burlington has 8 missions to choose from and offers family-friendly options that are great for kids who are around 10 and older. We know a few families who think this is one of the better escape rooms for kids to do. Adventure Rooms in Kitchener suggests kids 8 -10 years old play with their adults to help.

Both Fazed Escape Rooms and Ruze Escape Rooms near me offer family-friendly options as well. Lots of details on their websites, linked for you below.

Each of these venues make great destinations for a team outing or a birthday party or give a gift card for the ultimate experience gift.

Escape Rooms Downtown, Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara and Waterloo Region

In this list, you’ll find a round up of all the local options, each offering its own distinct challenges and themes. Whether you’re a newbie seeking an first-time visit to escape rooms in Niagara Falls or a seasoned enthusiast looking for a new Hamilton escape room, these spots promise an exciting time.

AdventureRooms

We recommend that children are 8 years of age or older to play without adults in the escape room, however younger children may play with their families. Party room is available - bring your own food and drink (excluding alcohol).

Alcatraz Escape Rooms

Alcatraz has 6 rooms to chhose from ranging in difficulty and recommended group size. Recommended ages 10+

BreakOut Escapes

The Cambridge location offers 6 games, and rooms change seasonally. They also had a room for kids 14 and under.

BreakOut Escapes Cambridge (Preston)

Located at Lumberjacks Axe Throwing with two escape offerings!

BreakOut Escapes Niagara Falls

Offering 7 rooms to play, with seasonal favourite-themes. They also have a kid-friendly room for 14 and under.

Complex Rooms

Looking for an at-home alternative to escape rooms? Complex offers both virtual and 'take-out' games - real boxes with props and puzzles, delivered to your location so you can host your own 'room'!

Confundrum Escape Rooms

Confundrum has 6 rooms to choose from and offers in person and virtual escape room games. They also offer packages so you can bundle rooms together and enjoy more for less money! Their rooms range in skill level and suggested age from 10 years old to 18+ depending on the theme.

Crimson Codes Escape Rooms

4 rooms to choose from.

Ctl V

Looking for a new kind of escape room? Try Virtual Reality! Ctl V offers single and multi-plyer VR games, and now escape rooms too!

Ctl V Waterloo

Looking for a new kind of escape room? Try Virtual Reality! Ctl V offers single and multi-plyer VR games, and now escape rooms too!

EscapeworX - Bingeman's

Players need to work as a team, communicating and making fast decisions to complete the enigmatic mysteries of the room. This makes EscapeworX a perfect team-building exercise, whether it's a bunch of friends, family, or a corporate group. With an on-site party room or nearby Boston pizza it's a great place for parties.

Exitus Escape Rooms

You can come to our facility or do an escape room in the comfort of your own home with our virtual offerings! Party room available.

Fantescapes Escape Rooms

Three magical rooms to choose from - all rooms require at least one person 16+ to be present.

Fazed Escape Rooms

Fazed has 2 escape rooms to choose from and both are family friendly.

KeyMasters Escape Rooms

Key Masters has 4 rooms to choose from. Games are recommended for players that are 10 or older. Players that are under 16 must have a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver.

KW Escape Room

With several different experiences, and a free party room KW Escape Rooms is the perfect place for a family outing or a larger get-together!

Mission Impossible Escape Rooms

The ONLY Escape Room in the WORLD where you can Choose Your Difficulty Level for any room: Kidz, Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced. All rooms are private for the comfort of you and your group. Our Milton Location is also host to 4 Party Rooms, a Full Restaurant & Bar and a Billiards Lounge. Located inside Champs Family Entertainment Centre.

Next Level Escape Rooms

Choose from four different rooms, and bring 2-10 players to join you, depending on which room you choose.

Ruze Escape Rooms

We guarantee your experience to be challenging, fun, and one-of-a-kind. Take on the opportunity to be the hero to your own adventure! 3 different rooms to challenge you.

The Crux Escape Rooms

The Round Table - Guelph

Board games, axe throwing, archery, escape rooms and more!

Whether you’re dodging unreliable weather or just want something new to try, here are our latest 8 ideas for indoor things to do with kids. You can find all of our Indoor Activities here.

The post The Best Escape Rooms Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara Area appeared first on Active Parents.

Awesome Arcades To Get Your Game On At in Hamilton and Halton

Amber Rohal — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 18:26:04 +0000

Arcades are exciting places where kids can immerse themselves in a world of fun and games. These spots are filled with rows of colourful machines that light up and buzz with excitement. Think of an arcade as a playground for video games!

But what exactly is an arcade? Well, it’s a place packed with various types of games that range from classic pinball machines to the latest cutting-edge video game consoles. Picture yourself surrounded by a variety of games that challenge your skills, test your reflexes, and most importantly, provide heaps of entertainment.

Arcades make a great destination for a team outing or a birthday party. Venues often offer great food and drink options, and cater to large groups regularly.

Playing video games can be a great way for kids to have fun, develop hand-eye coordination, and even learn problem-solving skills. Moderation is key, though! Just like enjoying a tasty treat, playing video games in moderation can be a good thing. It’s important to balance gaming with other activities, like outdoor play, reading, or spending time with friends and family.

Whether it’s competing in virtual races, embarking on epic adventures, or simply enjoying classic arcade games, these kid-friendly spots ensure a world of excitement and entertainment. Get ready to press start and dive into a world of gaming fun at these amazing arcades and gaming venues specially crafted for young gamers and fun loving parents!

We’ve also included some very cool eateries and arcade bars who offer video games at your table or in the restaurant. Here is one of our favourites.

What To Expect When You Visit

Every arcade in Ontario is completely unique. They will each have a different quantity and line up of games to choose from. If you;re looking for a specific game, call ahead and see if they have that one.

Some arcades still run on quarters (sorry, no more penny arcades!) and some run with credit card-like payments where you load an amount of money on the card and use the card to pay for game play. Video games are often priced as “credits”, so it takes 2 credits to play a game, etc.

Time of day will generally determine how busy the arcade will be. Kids should be ready to wait in line to play the newest and most popular games.

Arcades in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton

Activate Indoor Gaming Experience

High-energy, massive indoor gaming experience. Read about our visit here.

AMF Frederick Lanes

Bowling, birthday parties - for both kids and teens, billiards, arcade, and food - there's something here for everyone.

Burlington Bowl

Burlington Bowl features 48 lanes, a full-service licensed restaurant, a fully stocked pro shop and a games area featuring a pool table, air hockey and more. It offers cosmic glow-in-the-dark bowling, special-effect lighting and the latest music. Kids have a blast with bumper rails, ball ramps and super lightweight balls.

Champs Family Entertainment Centre

Large complex offering bowling, billiards & a gaming area, plus a sports bar with creative pub grub. At Champs we have incorporated a one of a kind Main Events gaming area equipped with all of the latest new gaming attractions to some of the favourite old classics.

Dave and Busters

Bring your friends and enjoy local and weekly specials. A fun experience for any occasion. Eat, drink, play and watch sports - all under one roof.

Epicplayzone

Milton’s largest active play zone for kids and adults alike. Great for the whole family. Epic Play Zone offers Laser Tag, Indoor Playground, Arcade, Birthday Parties.

Family Fun Centre Laser Tag

Featuring a multi-level, state of the art laser tag arena, and the latest selection of arcade and redemption games

Funvilla Guelph

Featuring a Trampoline Park, Ninja zone, soft play area and arcade - plenty to choose from for a rainy afternoon or a party!

Funvilla Kitchener-Waterloo

Featuring a Trampoline Park, Wall Climbing, Ninja zone, soft play area and arcade - plenty to choose from for a rainy afternoon or a party!

GameTime Social Restaurant and Arcade

We're Burlington's home to endless fun and entertainment for people of all ages! Power up your wristband and let the fun begin.

GYGO - Get Your Game On

A 26,000-square foot active play experience with a wide range of indoor and outdoor games and activations, like NERF Challenge, mini golf, laser tag, go-karts and more.

iBowl Family Fun Centre

5 and 10 pin bowling available, with specials for families, lunch, and even a 'triple play - one game of 5 pin bowling, one game of 10 pin bowling, and a round of the on-site mini golf!' Contact them for birthday party info too.

Kingpin Bowling

With 28 state of the art 10 pin lanes including a separate section for private parties, Kingpin Bowlounge is the biggest bowling venue in the Waterloo Region.

Kingpin Cambridge

Bowing, laser tag, an arcade, and a giant, multi-level play structure means kids of all ages can be entertained at Kingpin! Ask about their birthday party packages!

Parkway Social

Splitsville Bowling and Arcade - Hamilton

If bowling and arcade games are your vibe, you've come to the right place! Our Hamilton location offers 34 lanes of 10-pin bowling with glow-in-the-dark bowling and interactive bowling games on our state-of-the-art scoring system. Have even more fun in the large arcade room and play for the chance to win some amazing prizes. Plus, refresh with delicious food and drinks at the lanes or in our second floor lounge overlooking all the action! There’s FUN for everyone at Splitsville Hamilton!

Splitsville Bowling, Laser Tag and Arcade - Burlington

Waterdown Lanes

We offer 12 lanes of 5-pin bowling, as well as regular special events and parties, complete with glow-in-the-dark bowling! Looking for a fun way to keep active? We also have bowling leagues for all ages and skill levels.

Woodlawn Bowl

Woodlawn Bowl has 8 lanes of 5 pin and 24 lanes of 10 pin with many different types of Interactions whether it’s Bowling or playing in the Arcade Room, to business meetings, and birthday parties.

More Indoor Things To Do With Kids

Whether you’re dodging unreliable weather or just want something new to try, here are our latest 8 ideas for indoor things to do with kids. You can find all of our Indoor Activities here.

The post Awesome Arcades To Get Your Game On At in Hamilton and Halton appeared first on Active Parents.

Enjoy Christmas town, Winterlit and Winter Fun at Mountsberg Conservation Area

Amber Rohal — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 20:25:21 +0000

Mountsberg Conservation Area is one of eight Conservation Halton parks. It’s located in Campbellville, just north of Burlington, and features outdoor activities and attractions suitable for everyone from littles to seniors. A pay-one-price lets you enjoy a full day of fresh air, animals and best that nature has to offer.

Article Contents

Admission

Things To Do

Halloween Spooktacular

Christmas Town

Winterlit

Maple Town

How Much Is Admission To Mountsberg Conservation Area?

Reservations are not required, but you can book your visit online and save on gate fees. If you are not particulr on when you visit, why not check out a FREE Conservation Halton Family Pass from your local library.

Age Group	Online Price	At The Gate Price
Adult (15-64)	$10.50+hst	$12+hst
Senior (65 and over)	$8.25+hst	$9.75+hst
Child (5-14)	$7.25+hst	$8.75+hst
Child Under 5	Free	Free

Prices as of 2024, special events pricing will differ.

Mountsberg Attractions and Activities

No matter your age – stroller to seniors, everyone loves Mountsberg. The grounds are beautifully maintained and offer a variety of things to do. You can spend 3+ hours here, so pack a picnic and snacks.

Explore the Discovery Centre and learn about native animals and trees and how they coexist.

Wander the trails throughout the area and keep your eyes peeled for rabbits, horses, so many birds and reptiles.

Make time – lots of time – for the Mountsberg Raptor Centre because this is my favourite part. Beautiful birds of prey like the Barn Owl, hawks and a bald eagle are all waiting to meet you. Stay for a presentation or book a tour. Both are well worth it.

Grab your fishing pole and head to the Mountsberg reservoir. You may also see some frogs, ducks and turtles. They’re allowed to swim, but no swimming for the humans, please!

Visit the animals at the Barn. You may see sheep, goats, rabbits and chickens. During the warm months, you’ll see some gorgeous horses in their yard. They’re big beauties!

Special Events at Mountsberg Conservation Area

Mountsberg Spooktacular

In October, everyone is invited to Mountsberg Spooktacular, a family-friendly Halloween event. Spooktacular includes a spooky walk, scavenger hunt, a haunted barn and more. But don’t worry, nothing too scary, so kids of all ages will love it. Click here to read all about Mountsberg Spooktacular.

Christmas Town at Mountsberg

Each year, Mountsberg Christmas town draws families from all throughout the region. Everyone loves this event because it is an enchanting encounter with Santa in his woodland retreat. Ticket are sold for this event and they sell hour fast – within hours! This year, Christmas Town runs from November 16 to December 23, available Tuesday through Sunday (excluding November 25/26).

The Christmas Town experience:

A guided excursion via woodland wagon ride to Christmas Town (please note: a tractor may be utilized in certain cases due to weather conditions or the well-being of the horses)

Exclusive family meeting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Tour Mrs. Claus’ kitchen where treats are baked

Scavenger hunt, crafts and keepsake ornament making

Decorating cookies and savoring hot chocolate

Explore Elf Academy, Toy Central and the Flight Academy

Additionally, guests can visit the Raptors (during daytime) and farm animals or play at the natural playground

Winterlit

The trails at Mountsberg are always beautiful in winter, but now they’re even more special! Winterlit offers a unique outdoor experience with holiday lights and illuminated art installations along the way. The Illuminated Sugarbush Trail is about 1 km long has soft overhead lighting for a lovely evening stroll. The WInterlit Trail is also 1 km, so you can easily do both in your single visit. Enjoy local musicians’ music as you explore Mountsberg in winter on Thursday to Sunday evenings.

On specific nights, join the winter wildlife excursion, Owl Prowl, Mountsberg’s Raptor Centre staff host guided Owl Prowls on select 2024 dates – January 6, 7, 13, 14, and February 3 and 4. These mysterious creatures are active this time of year. The program takes guests into the woods to listen for wild owls after meeting one of the resident Mountsberg owls up close. Passes for these walks are limited and can be added to your Winterlit ticket.

Winterlit runs evenings between December 29, 2023 and January 7, 2024 (January 2, 2024 excepted) and Friday through Sunday January 12 to February 19, 2024.

Winterlit Pricing:
Non-Members – $22/adult, $19/child or senior, child 4 and under free
Members – $16.00/adult, $14/child or senior, child 4 and under free
Add Ons: Paint a Heart: $5 and/or Owl Prowl: $10

Enchanted Evenings are December 31st (New Years Eve) and Saturday, February 10 (right before Valentines Day) and these nights have added magic to make your visit extra special. Visitors will enjoy bonus entertainment, like a magician and fire performers and can take part in candle making. Listen to live music and treat yourself to some delicious food.

Winterlit Enchanted Evenings Price:
Non-Members – $30/adult, $25/child or senior, child 4 and under free
Members – $23/adult, $18/child or senior, child 4 and under free
Add Ons: Paint a Heart: $5, Candle Making: $8, Owl Prowl: $10

Maple Town at Mountsberg

Late winter is a “sweet” time of year when you visit Mountsberg Maple Town. Learn how maple syrup is made now, and how it was made long ago. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the Mountsberg sugar bush and sample some hot syrup poured over fresh, clean snow. Mountsberg Maple Town is a special event and may require addition payment and booking in advance.

Things to know before you go To Mountsberg Conservation Area

Wheelchair accessible with an elevator in the discovery centre

Stroller friendly with packed gravel trails

Gift shop on the main floor of the discovery centre with light snacks and souvenirs available for purchase

Washroom available with changing stations (outhouses available too)

Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park if you’d like to bring your own food

Reservations are recommended but not required. Pre-book your reservation online ahead of time to save on gate fees.

Mountsberg Conservation Area has an automated gate that will let you right in (no waiting)

Tons of parking (one vehicle permitted per reservation)

Dogs are permitted, however, they must be on a leash and are to be kept away from farm animal areas

Check the Conservation Halton website before you go to see which attractions are open

Hot Off The Presses!

The post Enjoy Christmas town, Winterlit and Winter Fun at Mountsberg Conservation Area appeared first on Active Parents.

The Best Family Board Games For Every Age – Updated for 2023

Amber Rohal — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 22:21:08 +0000

I am a huge fan of family board games, and during the next few weeks I know we are going to be playing a lot of them! If you’re looking for great games to add to your library, please let me share some of my most favourites.

Board Games For Kids of All Ages

Candyland is a childhood classic game for a reason. It’s fun and colourful and the game board is covered in candy! Kids don’t need to be able to ready to read or count to play, so this is perfect for your younger kids. We still own it because everyone can play when little friends come to visit.

Suspend is new to us and we already love it. You need to balance wire rods on a perch without them falling over. No reading is needed, just a steady hand. Lots of fun for young kids.

Connect 4 Shots is a cross between the original Connect 4 and basketball! We bought it for my youngest because she is high energy and loves basketball. It’s a great game to play head-to-head but she also plays on her own to test her shooting skills.

Peaceable Kingdom makes a ton of cooperative board games, where players work together on a common goal. We loved Gnomes At Night and The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game.

Boggle and Boggle Jr. are great ways to sneak in some literacy learning. You mission is to make words from the lettered dice. The longer the words, the more points it’s worth. This is a fun introductory to spelling and can continue offering a challenge as your kids grow.

Left Center Right (AKA PassPlay) is the one game we always pack! It’s a high-stakes game of dice, where you pass tokens, poker-like chips or anything according to the directions on the dice. You don’t want to be the one who runs out! Party trick: swap out the chips for small candy!

Blokus is a strategy game that will remind you of head-to-head Tetris. It’s all about spacial awareness and squeezing your pieces onto the game board as efficiently as possible. No reading or math required, so our little friends have enjoyed it too. It’s a top-rated family board game for a reason!

Sushi Go! was bought just because of the cool name but it is another one of our must-bring games when we travel. You can have up to 5 players and each game runs about 15 minutes. You mission is to build a high-value hand full of sushi, based on what others are discarding and keeping.

Again, we purchased Exploding Kittens because it looked and sounded hilarious. It is! Kids love the silliness of the cards and I love the excitement of every explosion! There are a few varieties of this game out there as well.

Don’t forget to check out dozens of other ways to stay entertained while at home. We are sharing our top ideas for indoor things to do, or write to an international pen pals, and be sure to read the list of easy at-home science experiments.

Family Board Games Everyone Will Love (Kids Ages 8+)

My favourite family board game is Qwirkle because anyone can play. You don’t need to be able to read, count past 6 or get deep into strategy if you don’t want to. The premise is connecting shapres and colours, and you can choose to keep score or just play for fun, which we did when we had a 6 year old at the table. The more you play, the more strategic it can become, so there is definitely room to grow with this game.

Flash was a Christmas gift for the family one year and it’s so much fun. It’s a dice game that that is very much like speed Yahtzee! Lots of laughs every time we play, and it travels perfectly so it comes on many a vacation and camping trip with us. Plus, a round can be finished in about 15 minutes which is a selling feature for many.

Ticket to Ride took us a while to buy because it’s a little pricey, but it’s truly one of those “forever games” that you will play for years and years. Its a boardgame my husband likes, and he doesn’t like many, so that’s a definite endorsement. Plus, they have a UK version, a kids version, and other novelty varieties to fit your taste.

Mexican Train Dominoes is new to us this year and we love it. I cannot get enough. I love a game that is part strategy, part competition and moves at a fast pace. Mexican Train does all of that and it’s another top-rated party game by the adults I know because you can play with up to 8 people so that’s a big bonus for big families.

One game that is in my cart is Herd Mentality. It’s a game that challenges how well you know your family and friends. Try to figure out everyone else’s answer to the questions. If your answer is in the majority you win cows. Mooo!

Best Board Games for Adults and Teens

Codenames is one of our favorite board games. It comes in a few varieties (standard version, Harry Potter, Disney for Kids) and it’s a great way to test your secret language skills!

Pandemic is an awesome game, and it’s cooperative, so everyone works together to save the world. The skill level and excitement are increased, and tweens and teens will love a family game night once again.

Apples To Apples is always a great way to cook up some hilarity, and to watch my kids faces at some of the cards! I thought this one was a kid’s game, but some of the cards are a little risqué so read them before you start to make sure it matches your audience.

You can’t be Uno, and while it’s not technically a family board game, it’s a classic card game for a reason. Or teach the teens to play Cribbage or Euchre. Not learning these essential university games has always haunted me!

Try Before You Buy

If you are unsure about the investment for some of these pricier board games, I suggest trying them out first at a Board Game Cafe. We have all of the area cafes, their pricing, and some good-to-know details in one spot to make your planning easier.

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The Best Subscription Boxes in Canada To Give and Receive

Amber Rohal — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 01:37:43 +0000

Make the people in your life cheer with excitement when you send them one of the best adult or kids subscription boxes. Monthly subscription boxes in Canada are a unique gift idea for any age. We know the top-rated educational and entertaining boxes for kids. And we have the scoop on popular beauty, food and book subscription boxes for men and women, too!

You can’t beat the feeling of happy mail and a surprise in your mailbox! We know the feeling! Give that feeling to your friends and family with these creative subscription boxes and services that you’re going to love to give and receive. Just in time for the biggest gift-giving season of the year.

Parent-Approved Canadian Subscription Boxes for Kids

Artshine Art In A Box

‘Artshine in a Box’ is our new visual arts subscription service. Your child will receive an exciting art kit each month that explores a different theme and art medium and includes an online video and printed tutorial. Choose a box specific to your child’s age and ability.

Cucina Kids Cooking Subscription Box

Canada’s coolest kid’s cooking subscription box! Created by kids, for kids. Celebrates Canadian history, customs and cuisine. Supports kid’s personal development and creates family time opportunities.

Cubby Kits

We’ve fit developmental expertise into a box, so you can fit it into your life! Focusing on skills generally emerging in toddlers and preschoolers, and inspired by the learning needs of children with autism and other developmental delays, Cubby Kits is an enriching experience for any child. Each kit contains an activity guide and theme-based toys that explore at least one area of development – receptive or expressive language skills, fine motor skills, literacy, etc. to help you play smarter!

four bears sticker club

Great things come in small packages and this is definitely true of stickers – tiny bits of happy that are easy to share! Choose from our Big Kids pack (geared toward adults) or our Little Kids pack (3+) – both are chock full of sticker sheets you won’t find anywhere else! These are great for snail mail, planners, bullet journals, and scrapbooks and make a great mess-free craft for kids (and what parent couldn’t use a little bit of that?). Start sticking, collecting and sharing them today!

Letters From Afar

Each month, open your mailbox to find a letter addressed to you. Accompanied by vibrant illustrations, field notes, and a map, your monthly letter will whisk you away on a literary adventure to a land far, far away. You’ll learn about different cultures, cuisines, wildlife, landmarks, oddities, heritages, and more! We have been subscribers for years now and love it.

marmalade books

Marmalade Books is a monthly children’s books subscription service. Curated by a children’s books specialist with 25+ years of experience. We choose only the best, recently published books from Canada, Britain and the United States. Located in and shipping from Victoria, British Columbia.

Mail Order Mysteries

We deliver mysteries for kids through the mail. Over a number of weeks, your child receives letters and objects from the characters in the mystery. Ships from Ontario, and personally recommended by Amber.

owl, chirp, chickadee magazines

Owlkids is dedicated to encouraging a life-long love of reading. We publish a family of magazines — Chirp (ages 3 to 6), chickaDEE Magazine (ages 6 to 9), and OWL (ages 9 to 13) — as well as books for kids of all ages. Owlkids’ magazines offer quality, engaging, timely, and FUN content. They are bursting with activities, animal facts, jokes, comics, feature stories, puzzles, and more…and personally recommended by Amber.

Raven Reads

Raven Reads is a Canadian seasonal subscription service that features quality, award-winning Indigenous content and products curated from Indigenous authors and entrepreneurs across North America. Both Kids and Adults boxes available.

ruby crate

Ruby Crate is the Canadian subscription box for tween and teen girls. It is filled with gems – treasures of beauty, style and self-expression that can be enjoyed each season. With many subscription boxes marketed towards women, none tailor specifically to tween and teen girls. Ruby Crate was born to cater to the younger generation’s needs and wants – providing an excellent opportunity to create a new box with fun treasures for our girls that are theirs, and theirs alone.

Sticker party!

Sticker Party is a monthly sticker subscription for kids! It comes with a retro-style sticker book and each monthly set of stickers includes 5 sticker sheets, 3 die-cut stickers, 1 sticker activity, 6 off-the-roll stickers and 1 scratch-n-sniff sticker sheet. That’s hundreds of stickers! All for $49 CAD!

World In A Box

https://worldinabox.ca/World in a Box is a Canadian subscription box for kids. Your little one discovers a country’s geography, wildlife, traditions and more. Hands-on activities, games, STEAM projects and crafts ignite your kid’s natural creativity. Have fun and learn about the world! Discount code: activeparents20. This coupon can be applied at the checkout and will give 20% off any first subscription, gift or one-time kit. It can not be used together with other coupons/promotions. Shop World in a Box here.

Wild Life Outdoor Adventure

Get your family off of technology and outdoors and moving with games, toys, gear and equipment for curious minds from Wild Life Outdoor Adventure. There is a variety of single purchase themed boxes to choose from as well as 3 and 6 kit purchasing options. Each curated box is full of outdoor gear and ready for adventure.

Gift-worthy Canadian Subscription Boxes for Women and men

splendid greetings

It’s time to start mailing your loved one’s cards, monthly! Monthly box will include high quality cards from a variety of occasions. They will be reflective of the month you receive them (E.g. Christmas card in December box etc). Boxes will always include new releases and exclusive card designs you won’t see anywhere else! Order one box or subscribe monthly. Ships from Ontario, and personally recommended by Amber.

Acre 75 Gathered

“Each season, we collaborate with small town makers across Canada to curate our Acre75 Gathered boxes —proudly promoting their locally-made goods and putting their little towns on the map.” Subscribe and receive 4 boxes or purchase a pre-purchase a single holiday box. You’ll receive local handmade products by artists from small towns (of fewer than 30,000 people) across Canada. It’s been described as “a small town road trip in a box.”

Southern Ontario’s Community Haul

Community Haul is a monthly subscription box designed to celebrate local businesses and help reboot the local economy. By helping you discover your local alternatives every month we hope that you will continue to shop and support locals through all aspects of your life. Each month, subscribers receive 4-6 products from different Southern Ontario small businesses. We have 2 subscription options available – The Long Haul and No Strings Attached.

Sweet Peas Baby

A hip and helpful subscription and gift box service arriving quarterly, for new moms and their sweet peas ages 0- 36 months. Our items are carefully chosen for their quality and uniqueness, which are made & designed by local Canadian vendors, small shops and artisans, giving our boxes a nice mix of “tried & true” staple items and “hip & hot” baby gear. All this makes us the Ultimate Baby Box!

Klondike Kettle Corn

Meet Katie – a mom, outdoor adventurer, and foodie who loves to be surrounded by my family, friends, and community – the perfect fit for a popcorn-preneur! Having worked in restaurants from the age of 16, as well as catering businesses, and camp kitchens, it seemed like a natural move to create a business that was all about bringing people together with fresh and delicious, ready-to-eat popcorn.

the extraordinary man

Every 90 days you will receive our carefully considered selection of the finest products that we actively sought out for you—saving you time and money without conceding quality. Because everyone deserves home, healthy and beauty products. Ships from B.C.

The Good Lane

Seasonal subscription boxes are sent 4 times a year and contain sustainably sourced, ethically made, eco-friendly products. You can feel good knowing you are supporting “small businesses that are making a difference.” The Good Lane is based out of Cochrane, Alberta.

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3 Indoor Treasure Hunts For Every Age

Amber Rohal — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:41:58 +0000

If you have the kids indoor today, don’t stress! We can help you keep them busy and engaged with these 3 printable indoor scavenger hunts. Recruit a big sibling to help run this adventure, or help a new reader follow the hunt on their own. No matter how you execute these hunts, they will help keep boredom at bay.

When the weather won’t cooperate or you’re looking for some indoor fun, indoor scavenger hunts for kids are the perfect solution! These creative and interactive games not only keep the little ones entertained for hours, but also foster teamwork, problem-solving skills, and imagination. From simple picture hunts for toddlers to elaborate clue-based quests for older kids, the possibilities are endless.

Gather some everyday items, create a list of clues, and let the adventure begin! Whether it’s a rainy day or a playdate, indoor scavenger hunts guarantee giggles, excitement, and cherished memories for the whole family.

Looking for inspiration to create your own indoor scavenger hunt? Scroll down to the bottom of this article and find our top tips for crafting your own hunt with your kids in mind. It’s easy and fun, and can even be educational. Perfect for a P.A. Day or homeschooling!

Have More Fun At Home

Outdoor Scavenger Hunts For Kids

20 Easy Activities For Toddlers

Cool Science Experiences With Easy Ingredients

“Would You Rather” Questions Kids Love

Unleash the Adventurous Spirits: Indoor Scavenger Hunts for Kids!

This first hunt asks kids to find a common item but with a twist. You’re not just looking for socks, it must be a pair of matching socks. We love keeping kids on their toes with these scavenger hunt ideas!

Bigger Kids, Harder Hunting

Those middle size kids will find this one just challenging enough. They need to use their senses to hunt for the right item to match the list.

Treasure Hunt For Big Kids

These scavenger hunt ideas will get your kids thinking critically and logically. This list is open-ended, meaning not item specific, and encourages your kids to find items that match the description. We love when play includes some sneaky learning.

5 Tips For Making Your Own Indoor Scavenger Hunt

Creating an indoor treasure hunt for kids can be an exciting and engaging activity. Here are five tips to make the treasure hunt fun and successful:

Plan a Theme: Choose a theme for the treasure hunt. It could be pirates seeking hidden treasure, detectives solving a mystery, or explorers on a mission. Align the theme with your kids’ interests to make it more engaging.

Design Clues or Riddles: Craft a series of clues or riddles that lead from one to the next and eventually to the treasure. Tailor the difficulty of the clues to suit the ages and abilities of your kids. You can incorporate simple puzzles, wordplay, or images to make it more interesting.

Set Up the Hunt Area: Determine the area where the treasure hunt will take place. It could be different rooms in the house or specific locations within a room. Hide the clues strategically, making them challenging but accessible. Consider places that are safe and suitable for the age of the children participating.

Include Challenges and Activities: Introduce mini-games or challenges along the way. For instance, a task could be to hop like a bunny for 30 seconds or answer a riddle correctly to get the next clue. These activities add variety and fun to the hunt.

Prepare a Reward: The treasure at the end could be a small prize, a collection of treats, or even a fun activity the kids enjoy. It’s the “treasure” that adds the excitement and sense of accomplishment to the hunt.

Bonus tip: Consider involving a mix of family members to participate in the treasure hunt or to assist younger children. This can make the activity more enjoyable and foster a sense of teamwork and shared fun.

Remember, the goal is to make the indoor treasure hunt an entertaining and memorable experience for the kids. Be creative, consider their interests, and tailor the difficulty level to ensure everyone has a great time!

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Geocaching in Burlington and Hamilton: A Guide For Newbies

Amber Rohal — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 15:44:10 +0000

Geocaching in Burlington and Hamilton is a great way to spend time outdoors with your kids. It brings together walking in the fresh air, investigative skills and a scavenger hunt! Let’s go!

What is geocaching?

Geocaching is an outdoor activity where participants use an app or GPS coordinates to search for “caches”, hidden by other geocachers. Geocachers can also use the same apps to hide their own caches for others to find.

We use an app called Geocaching by Groundspeak Inc. It’s free and has available paid perks, and it’s available for Android and iOS. We’ve used this app for years without issue. I like it because the GPS is easy enough for my kids to follow on their own, which makes them more invested in the activity and more independent.

how do I start geocaching?

Geocaching near Burlington has quickly become one of our favourite ways to welcome spring temperatures. It’s so easy to get started. We took inspiration from our friends at Brightside Photography. Brian and his son had posted a few pics of themselves geocaching and I was intrigued! Here’s how to get the ball rolling:

Download the geocaching app

Create an account

Decide what neighbourhood or city you want to geocache in

When you open the app, you’ll be blown away by how many geocaches appear if you’re in the city. Hundreds and hundreds! All hidden in plain sight, It’s crazy! And Hamilton has way more caches than Burlington.

how do I find a geocache Near Me?

Once you’ve decided what cache you’re going to hunt for, read and re-read the clues and info on the cache. It will let you know the degree of difficulty to expect, what kind of terrain (some are in trees!), and other tips on how to find it. You can even see if others have asked a question about the cache in the past, and read their answers.

When you find it, don’t broadcast it to the world. “Official” cachers call us newbies “Muggles” and hate when we do that. This is supposed to be a secret hunt, so make sure to treat the caches with respect. Caches will most likely have a logbook, so add your name and date, and see if you know anyone else who’s logged in. Some caches have a trinket or treasure in them. We like to take one and leave one in this case. Log your find in your app, place it back carefully, and you’re off to the next one!

geocaching: the good, the bad and the ugly

The Good

Do It Anywhere: With over 3.1 million geocaches hidden worldwide, you can practically hunt anywhere. We’ve geocached near home in Burlington, around Hamilton, near Grandma’s and Grandpa’s house, at the cottage, and we’ve even hopped in the truck and driven to an area specifically because it has a generous amount of hidden caches.

Open 24/7: It’s a fun way to hike, explore, and be outside together. Some days my kids need an activity to encourage them to get outside, and this is perfect.

Best Deal In Town: It’s free! There are free apps and no real supplies are required, aside from pen or pencil.

Dad Approved: If you’ve got a parent who loves gadgets and technology, this will likely be the activity for them.

The Bad

Not Cool Beans: Twice so far (out of 15 caches found) we haven’t been able to locate a cache, and that can be disappointing for the kids. The caches are there, I’m just new at this hobby so there is a learning curve. Always read the details and comments to see if there are any clues about the cache and its level of difficulty. When in doubt, look for easy ones. And be prepared to try, try again!

The Ugly – Is Geocaching Safe?

As with everything, you need to be in control of your safety. Watch for uneven ground, poorly maintained city spaces, and of course, critters. We’ve been lucky while finding a cache, nothing exciting has happened to us yet.

frequently asked questions about geocaching in Hamilton and Burlington

Q: Does geocaching cost money?

A: Nope, it is as free as a jaybird. You can spend money on a paid subscription to an app, and maybe a few bucks on trinkets if you choose, but no money is required. A separate GPS unit is not required, your phone is enough.

Q: What’s the point of geocaching?

A: It’s a fun way to get outside, and roam off the beaten path, all with a secret mission in mind.

Q: Is geocaching dangerous?

A: I always remind people to be careful, and really go by what the cache details tell you. Watch your surroundings, and when all else fails, move on to the next cache instead of venturing to uncharted territories.

Overall, our family highly recommends geocaching as a great way to get outside with a fun purpose. Our girls love seeing the treasures, following the live map to the spot, and rooting around for a hidden container. Mom and Dad love how tired the fresh air makes the kids! The overall rating is a solid ‘A’. Be sure to let us know what you think, and if you can suggest a geocache to seek out next time.

Find more adventures here

We’ve got plenty of ways to spend your days. Everything from the best parks and playgrounds around to day trips for families, and of course free and cheap things to do locally.

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The Coolest Places For Your Teen’s Birthday Party

Amber Rohal — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 21:54:55 +0000

Are you ready to throw the ultimate teenage birthday bash? Look no further! In this curated list, we’ve handpicked the coolest birthday party ideas for teens. From adrenaline-pumping adventure parks to trendy urban hangouts, we’ve got you covered. Whether they’re into thrill-seeking adventures or prefer a laid-back vibe, these teen birthday party ideas will ensure your teen’s birthday celebration is one for the books! Let’s get the party started.

Games & Movies

Address: 3330 South Service Rd, Burlington, Ontario L7N 3M6

gametimesocial.ca

With 25,000+ square feet of space to play and dine, there’s entertainment for all ages including an arcade, karaoke, axe throwing (for ages 18+), billiards, bowling and VR gaming at Game Time Social. Use the online form to plan an event for 10 or more. Start by selecting the option to book a kid’s birthday party and indicate that it is for teens since there are add-ons available for older kids. Someone will contact you about putting together the perfect package for your teen. For about $30 – $40 an hour you can rent a party room that holds up to 10. You may bring small decorations for the space, please no confetti, glitter, or streamers. You may also bring cupcakes. Four wristbands with 800 credits cost $30 plus taxes and a $3 fee per rechargeable wristband.

Joe Dog’s Underdog Rec Room

Address: 531 Brant St Burlington, Ontario L7R 2G6

joedogs.com/underdog-rec-room

Joe Dog’s promises old-school fun for private parties with video games and pinball. They have 25 games (17 arcade games, 1 giant Nintendo, foosball, bubble hockey, shuffleboard, 2 pool tables, and pinball games) and Wii on the big screen. There’s a $100 room fee per hour with a minimum 2-hour booking. The full menu is available for private parties. Add on pizza, wings, salad, hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, or a veggie tray.

Cineplex Movie Theaters

cineplex.com/parties-and-groups/parties

Cineplex has a few party options. The XSCAPE party is best suited to teens and is available at select locations. It costs $198 and comes with 8 x $30 play cards. A private party room can be added for $50 plus tax for 1 hour. Add on party food or bring your own cake.

Dave and Busters

Address: 2021 Winston Park Drive Unit E, Oakville, ON

daveandbusters.com

Dave and Busters has 200+ games, 40+ TV screens and 10 room types. They describe their kids’ parties as perfect for all ages. Their Field Goal parties are for 10-20 guests. The $34.99 starting price per guest gets you platters of food in a shared space, a $40 Power Card for the birthday teen and a $30 Power Card for the guests. The Kick-Off party is for 15+ guests. The $38.99 starting price per guest buys buffet-style food, a $50 Power Card for the birthday teen and $35 Power Cards for guests. You may bring in cake, just not ice cream cake, and decorations, just not confetti, silly string, streamers or extra candles.

QB Sports Bar Grill Games

qbsports.ca

Reserve a table at QB’s for the sports fans in your family. Teens can watch sports, play fun games, and win prizes in the arcade, and order food from off of the menu. The bar is in a separate area across from the family-friendly arcade.

Planet Laser

Address: 461 North Service Road West, Oakville, ON, L6M 2V5

planetlaser.ca/attractions/laser-tag

While the birthday party packages are more appropriate for younger children (they come with a room, host/hostess and loot bags), laser tag and the arcade can be enjoyed by any age. Pricing, not including taxes, for laser tag is $9 per person for 1 game, $17 for 2 games, $22 for 3 games. The Tuesday special is $4.50. Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. to midnight is unlimited play for $22 per person. We had a birthday here and added on a pizza party afterwards.

Activate

Address: 2030 Appleby Line, Burlington, ON L7L 6M6

activate.ca

We can personally recommend Activate Burlington for a unique party idea. Find our tips for your family’s visit here. It’s a ton of fun! Play games in groups of 3-5 people. Activate is engaging and fun for all ages. The cost is $28 plus tax per person for 75 minutes of gameplay. A $5 deposit is required per person at the time of booking. Contact Activate directly to book for groups of 30 or more and get moving!

Confundrum Escape Room

Address: 775 Woodview Rd, Burlington, ON L7N 3S1

confundrumescaperooms.com

There are several rooms to choose from. Teenagers can work together to use the clues, solve the puzzle and escape the room. Choose from: Blackbeard’s Brig, Twisted Woods, Cypherspace, New Haven, Da Vinci’s Office, and Witches of Everwinter (coming Fall 2023). Call for information about group bookings. You will have a private room for your party – no other group will be added to the room with you. From our birthday party experience, the escape room was well designed and the staff was helpful with providing clues but not giving answers. I won’t tell you if we escaped or not – that part’s a secret.

Outdoor Birthday Party Places For Teens

Cameron Speedway and Amusements

Address: 2633 Upper James St., Mount Hope, ON L0R 1W0

cameronspeedway.com

Cameron Speedway and Amusements has go-karts and more for adrenaline-seeking teens. They have paintball, Splatmaster, bungee trampoline, rope course, laser tag, bubble soccer, rock climbing, and a target range. Many of the attractions are weather-dependent. Go-kart parties are priced for groups of 10 or more. Five laps cost $18.59 plus tax per driver, and 10 laps cost $27.44 plus tax per driver. Laps must be taken consecutively. Our family of teenagers really enjoyed their afternoon outside at Cameron Speedway.

Tree Top Trekking Hamilton

Address: 5050 Harrison Rd, Binbrook, ON, L0R 1C0

treetoptrekking.com/group/birthday-parties

Looking for something different for your teens’ party? Do they enjoy adventure and being outdoors? Tree Top Trekking combines both. The 3- hour Zip Line and Aerial Game Trek is for ages 9 and up (with a minimum height of 55”) and has “suspension bridges, Tarzan swings, balance logs and ziplines.” Call for group pricing. The guest of honour is free for a party held within 9 days of their birthday and bringing along a group of 5 or more.

Conservation Halton Challenge Course and Archery

Address: 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, ON L9E 0C6

www.conservationhalton.ca/challenge-course

Add the Challenge Course to your Conservation Halton booking and enter by the Kelso Conservation main gates. Kelso has something for every season and the Challenge Course and Archery are open 7 days a week in July and August. Pricing is $25 + HST for the Escarpment Walk Aerial Ropes Course, $25 + HST for the Vulture’s View Climbing Tower and $13 +HST for Eagle Eye Archery. Select the activities you’d like for your teen and add it at the time of booking, in addition to the park entry fees. Park fees for non-members are $7.25 for ages 5-14 and $10.50 for adults. Our young teens and their friends enjoyed challenging themselves on the Escarpment Walk and Aerial Ropes Course (it’s similar to tree top trekking) and the staff were very helpful. We brought food, drinks and cupcakes into the park and used the scenic picnic areas after they’d successfully completed the Challenge Course. The Snack Bar also sells ice cream.

Chicopee Tube Park

Address: 1600 River Road East, Kitchener, Ontario, N2A 4K8

www.chicopeetubepark.com

Chicopee is super fun for families and groups. Teens will enjoy snow tubing in the winter. Mine went for a winter snow tubing birthday party and had a blast. They can warm up and have something to eat and drink in the chalet between runs or when they’ve finished for the day. In the summer Chicopee has zipline. The zipline party package includes 3 rides each for $28 plus tax per guest. Reservations are required. Parents should book 2 weeks in advance. Closed-toe shoes are required and helmets are provided. You may bring your own cake though refrigeration is not provided. See you on the slopes!

Wild Waterworks

Address: 680 Van Wagners Beach Road, Hamilton, ON, L8E 3L8

read our article on Wild Waterworks

Go for the afternoon, cool off in the pools and on the slides, rent a cabana and bring your own food and drink. There are food trucks onsite too. What could be better? Rates are for full day or sundown after 4 p.m. Hours are 11 am – 7 pm and Wild Waterworks is closed Mondays and Tuesdays other than holiday Mondays. Full-day general admission is $29.94 each. An all-day private weekday cabana costs $103.99. Cabana bookings do not include entry but do get you early admission, starting at 10:30 a.m. Cabana rentals include 2 Muskoka chairs, 4 chairs, 1 round table, 4 tube rentals and wait service.

Tyandaga Golf Course

Address: 1265 Tyandaga Park Dr, Burlington, ON L7P 1N1

www.tyandagagolf.com

Tyandaga is a family-friendly, kid-friendly public golf course right here in Burlington. Pricing ranges from $36.80 (for Junior/Senior 9 holes) to $38.10 (Junior/Senior 18 holes) to $43.80 (Adult After Noon), and $30.30 for Twilight (after 4 pm June to September) and $15.05 for Sunset (last 2 hours before closing). Expect hills. Carts available.

Indoor Birthday Party Ideas

Oakville Putting Edge

Address: 2085 Winston Park Drive, Oakville, Ontario L6H 6P5

puttingedge.com/parties-events/birthday-parties

Party packages for any age are customizable to include 1 round of golf, $10 of arcade money, and a private party room. The party package cost per person is $12 (golf only), $21.50 (golf and arcade), or $26.50 (golf, arcade and party room). My teenager and their friends had a great time playing glow-in-the-dark mini putt arcade games. There are plenty of restaurants nearby to extend the celebration.

Board Games Cafes

A board game cafe birthday party offers a unique and interactive celebration. This game night idea encourages strategic thinking and provides a fun, relaxed atmosphere for guests of all ages. With an extensive game collection, delicious food, and a cozy ambiance, board game cafes guarantee a memorable and inclusive experience for everyone.

Find our list of local Board Game Cafes here.

Hamilton Indoor Go-Karts

Address: 193 Cavell Avenue, Hamilton, ON, Canada

hamiltonindoorgokarts.com

Depending on what month your teen’s birthday is, Hamilton Indoor Go-Karts might be just the place for climate-controlled indoor fun and racing adventure. Group rates are available. Kids’ birthday parties and youth groups of 1-10 drivers include 1 race (10-minute timed session) per person for $249 and are available 7 days a week. It is well ventilated so dress warmly for winter karting. Adult kart riders must be 12 years or older and 58” or taller. Waivers can be signed by parents or anyone 19 and older and are available online. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes. And GO!

iFLY

Address: 2007 Winston Park Dr, Oakville, ON L6H 6P5

iflyworld.ca/plan-your-event

Experience an adrenalin-pumping indoor skydiving experience at iFLY. Birthday party packages come with a coach who provides instruction. The Friends & Family Package is for groups of up to 5 guests and starts from $49.99 per person. The package comes with 1:1 flight instruction, pre-flight training, and flight gear rental for 10 flights to share among the birthday party guests. This indoor free-fall experience is equivalent to 3 real skydives per person.

Serenity’s Touch

Address: Mobile

www.serenitystouch.ca/spa-services/my-spatacular-party/

Want to pamper your teen and their friends? Serentiy’s Touch mobile spa party “includes: manicures, pedicures, facials, massage, body treatments, makeup artistry and various other specialty packages. The service area includes; Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Milton, Mississauga, Toronto and surrounding areas.” A teen makeup party is $35 each for 20 minutes of application per person. There’s also a My Spectacular Party for sweet 16. Sit back and let Serenity’s Touch spoil your teen and their friends and make them feel special and pampered.

Tea at the White House

Address: 35 Main Street North, Waterdown, Ontario

teaatthewhitehouse.com

This is a popular spot in Waterdown and you’ll want to book ahead. My teen enjoyed ordering Cream Tea ($15 per person) off of the Afternoon Tea Menu. I can also attest that the Garden Tea ($32 per person) is very good. Book in advance to enjoy delicious food and treats in a pleasant setting.

Get even more Active Parents ideas for teens here.

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The post The Coolest Places For Your Teen’s Birthday Party appeared first on Active Parents.

Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday (in Canada!)

Amber Rohal — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:09:12 +0000

Your birthday is a great reason to celebrate, so let’s get you some free birthday stuff, Canada! We know the best Canadian retailers who offer you free stuff on your birthday! Scroll through and find out who gives you free stuff on your birthday!

Many of these free birthday gifts and offers come via signing up for a newsletter or downloading an app. Those emails and confirmations can take a few days to process, so we suggest joining a few days before your birthday to make sure you can treat yourself ON your birthday.

Do you know of another spot that offers you deals and freebies just for having a birthday? Tell us about it!

And make sure to keep this list of kids eat free locations so you can treat them on their birthday.

Free Birthday food From These Locations

Register for Arby’s Insider for email updates and get one free roast beef when you order a medium-sized soft drink. If you provide your date of birth, Arby’s will also give you a special birthday treat.

Baskin-Robbins will treat you to one free ice cream scoop at Baskin-Robbins on your birthday when you join their Club 31.

Boston Pizza rewards you a few times – including on your birthday – when you join their MyBP loyalty program.

COBS Bread has a sweet treat for you on your birthday – an insider tells me it’s a cinnamon bun!

Dairy Queen treats you to a yummy frozen treat on your birthday when you join the Blizzard fan club.

David’s Tea will bump up your rewards by 5 points on your birthday so you’re that much closer to that free tea!

The List Continues…More Birthday Freebies, Canada!

Denny’s fills you up with a Grand Slam breakfast on your birthday. Everyone loves a free meal on their birthday!

Join Edible Rewards and enjoy a free box of chocolate-dipped fruits for every 3rd purchase at Edible Arrangements. You will also receive a gift on your birthday in addition to members-only perks.

Get on Jack Astor’s mailing list and you’ll also get a treat on your birthday.

Mandarin Buffet picks up the tab on your buffet dinner just for joining their mailing list.

Marble Slab Creamery has a cool way to celebrate your birthday, plus coupons and more.

Join their My Smileage Club and Menchie’s will make your birthday yummier!

Montana’s Cookhouse gives you a free birthday dessert and 10% off orders over $30 so going out to celebrate your birthday is a little easier!

Nothing Bundt Cakes wants to treat you to a free birthday bundtlet when you sign up for their eClub.

Become a member of MyPanera Rewards to receive exclusive rewards for each purchase, including a birthday gift.

Red Lobster has a delish surprise birthday offer for you – just for being born!

Sign up for the South St. Burger Birthday Club and you and a friend can enjoy a buy-one-get-one-free deal on your special day.

More Freebies On Your Birthday

Canada’s favourite coffee shop will give their Tim Horton’s rewards members a surprise on their birthday

Swiss Chalet gives adults a free appetizer on their birthday with the purchase of an entree, and kids get a free kid’s meal on theirs at participating locations.

The Keg treats you to a slice of Billy Miner’s pie to reward you for being born.

I happen to LOVE Harvey’s fries so when I discovered they would send me a birthday reward it was a no-brainer to sign up!

Montana’s will give you free chips and salsa all year round and a sweet treat on your birthday as well as a $10 coupon just for signing up to their newsletter!

Download Quizno’s app to earn rewards throughout the year. Then enjoy a buy one get one free regular sub on your birthday.

Mr Sub will give you a free small sub any time in your birthday month! As part of the rewards program you’ll get a free drink and chips for signing up, and every 10th sub is free.

Free spinach dip for signing up and a free dessert on your birthday? Kelsey’s has you covered!

Cora’s rewards program has you collect points for each $ spent – and you get 3x the points on your birthday!

Free birthday fries? It’s true – when you download the New York Fries app and preload some $ a salty snack is yours on your birthday.

Join the Burgers with Benefits club at the Works. You’ll get access to exclusive contests and giveaways, free food, a birthday reward and some secret stuff too!

Where To Get More Free Stuff on Your Birthday

Build-A-Bear – when you sign up for a Bonus Club membership and Register your children’s birth dates in your account they can receive a free gift on their birthday.

The Body Shop’s Love Your Body program gets you sneak peeks at new products. It also scores you invites to exclusive parties and other rewards – including one to indulge in on your birthday.

Mastermind Toys gives your kiddos a free birthday surprise during their birthday month, plus various offers and perks all year!

Sephora celebrates your beauty with a free product on your birthday!

The more you shop as a loyalty club member at London Drugs, the more they can personalize your offers – including a birthday reward.

Old Navy has some super-cute stuff and you can score more with the loyalty program, including a birthday gift! While you’re there, join up for rewards on their sister store the Gap, too for more birthday fun!

Save even more at Value Village – as a loyalty member you can enjoy 20% off a single purchase up to $50 for your birthday.

Even More Free Stuff on Your Birthday

American Eagle offers rewards for every $ spent, invites loyalty club members to exclusive events AND gives them a birthday reward!

Join Club La Senza for 10% off every purchase, free shipping on orders over $40 and a birthday gift!

Pennington’s Style Insiders earn rewards, get exclusive offers all year, as well as that birthday gift valid throughout your birthday month.

Ricki’s is also ready to reward you for your birthday as a loyalty club member!

I don’t know about you but I always need shoes, so 20% off at Shoe Company for my birthday is a great idea – and being a member of the loyalty program brings perks all year round.

Make your birthday stripey – sign up for their newsletters and enjoy an in-store birthday gift from the Bay

Not Free, But Still Good Deals For Your Birthday

Become an Ardene VIP and get deals and discounts just for being born!

Baskin Robbins lets you sign up for a BOGO birthday deal.

Woohoo! That is a lot of free swag for your special day. Do you know of another spot that treats you to something special on your birthday? Tell us about it! And if today is your birthday – HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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PA Day Activities: 50+ Things To Do When School Is Out

Amber Rohal — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0000

There is another day off school coming up and if you need a cheat sheet for PA Day activities, you have come to the right place. We’ve put together a couple of dozen ideas for indoor activities, free things to do and outdoor PD Day activities that will keep your kids busy.

Indoor PA Day Activities

Score huge parent points when you take the kids to an indoor water park for the day. This list of local spots will help you pick the best one.

Check out a Burlington indoor play centre, or trampoline park or better yet, visit one that’s further afield in Hamilton and Niagara and your kids will think you’ve discovered a fantastic new land!

There are indoor sports for every skill level – bowling, batting cages, laser tag, and rock climbing to name a few! We have a huge list of facilities in the area, whatever your athlete wants to try!

Turn the tables on the weather this PD Day, and let the kids decide if they want to go for a swim or an indoor skate. Find the times here for Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and Milton.

Dreaming of a tropical getaway? The warm temperatures, fluttering butterflies, and even a waterfall at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory will make you think you’ve taken a trip to a sunny destination!

Get creative at one of the area’s studios – whether pottery painting, making things with clay or both!

Indoor PA Day Activities For The Big Kids

Work your skills at freeing yourselves from an Escape Room. We’ve got the lowdown on locations in Kitchener/Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph with kid-friendly storylines, too!

Golf isn’t just for the good weather when you head to Putting Edge in Oakville. The glow-in-the-dark surroundings are fun for all ages.

Thinking of going to the movies? Check out Cinestarz and Film.ca for more budget-friendly outings – the bonus is there’s more money for popcorn!!

There are tons of museums and galleries in our area that are not only educational but have lots of creative ways to get involved and have fun. One of our favourites is to visit the Bruegel-Bosch bus at the Art Gallery of Hamilton or go back in time for a historical visit to Dundurn Castle.

We’ve got 5 great tips for visiting the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum – and bonus it’s next to the airport, so you can spend some time watching the planes!

Bored of the same old games? Try new ones at Board Game Cafes in Hamilton like Never Board Games or Mancala Monk.

Outdoor PD Day Activities

A visit with animals is always a top-notch PA Day activity. We are so lucky to have so many places to see zoo animals, farm animals, and wild animals close by. You check them out at Brantford Zoo, Triple C Farm, and Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Feel like making a full day out of it? Check out our reviews of more farms, parks, and sanctuaries in the area.

Have you explored all of the Royal Botanic Gardens properties? The Rock Garden is amazing at tulip time, or take a hike at Cherry Hill.

Hike the Hide and See k trail at Crawford Lake – the giant wooden sculptures are fun to find while you learn more about species at risk. Mountsberg Conservation Area is one of our favourites – with birds of prey, farm animals, trails, and a lake there are tons to do whatever the weather.

Make a splash by taking your kids to one of the local outdoor waterparks. The perfect answer when you need an exhilarating PD Day activity.

Ski hills can get crowded so maybe try tubing or cross-country skiing!

Free Things to Do on A PA Day

If waterparks are a bit too much for your littles, check out our splash pad guides to Burlington, Hamilton, and Oakville. Discover pirates, crowns, elephants and more! We love free things to do on a PA Day!

Dress for the weather and play at a new (to you) park. We love this one in Burlington, and this one is just a short drive away. Check out our searchable parks directory – plug in the features that are important to you and find your new favourite playground.

Walk your neighbourhood and find a Little Free Library. Their take-a-book leave-a-book philosophy makes finding a new read for kids or adults easy-peasy! We love educational PA Day activities.

Go on a real-life treasure hunt by geocaching! Using the free app and GPS tracking you can find hidden containers in lots of public spaces. Some caches are tiny, some are big enough to leave small treasures in – whatever you do, don’t forget a pencil – you’ll want to sign the log and let other people know you were there!

Ignore the world and stay home for the PA Day. Fresh baked cookies, snuggles, and a movie sounds delightful, doesn’t it?

Want a wheelie good time? Check out our guide to the best skateboard and scooter parks in Burlington, Hamilton, and Oakville

Visit the library. It’s way more than just book-borrowing. Movies, video games, activity kits, plus a ton of other activities are all waiting for you!

If sledding is more your speed find the City approved hills in Burlington and Hamilton here.

Download our Winter Bingo, Scavenger Hunt, or Indoor Scavenger Hunt cards and see how many activities you can do – maybe the winner can choose a treat from our ‘Shop Local’ list!

Shop Local

Eat out at one of the restaurants that offer a Kids Eat Free option throughout the week.

Do-nut forget a sweet treat! We asked and you voted for the best doughnut shops in the area. Why not plan a doughnut crawl and tasting session?

Embrace the great weather and support one of the local ice cream shops on our list of Hot Spots for Cool Treats. What a delicious PA Day activity!

Have you eaten the best fries in town yet? We took a very scientific poll and here are the results. You’re welcome.

There you have it! We’ve provided some inspiration for great things to do on a PA Day, but if you have other plans share them with us! Whatever you do, enjoy the day with the family.

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Postcrossing: Receive and Send Postcards From All Over The World

Amber Rohal — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Sending snail mail is the absolute best, isn’t it? If you said yes, you’re going to love Postcrossing! Postcrossing has made it so easy to send and receive postcards from all over the globe!

Email is awesome, no one can deny that. But how amazing is it when you get a real, physical postcard in the mail from someone? No matter how old you are, I know it brightens your day.

It’s Not Like A Pen Pal

Every summer we try to send as many postcards as we can. We send them to our family members as a way to help them stay up to date and to be involved in all of our summer adventures. We pick up postcards wherever we see them and always have at least 5 family members we send to regularly. And those folks write back.

But Postcrossing isn’t the same. It might be better!?

Postcrossing – Send and Receive Postcards Internationally

Postcrossing is zero commitment. You can request one address and send a postcard to that person. Then, someone else will get your address to send a postcard to. No back and forth. No time deadlines or pressure. And each postcard that lands in your mailbox can be from a completely different country!

How Does It Work? Postcrossing Explains…

1. Write a postcard

The first step is to request to send a postcard — we’ll give you the address of a random member and a Postcard ID (e.g.: US-12345). Pick a postcard, write a friendly message, along with its Postcard ID and the address given. Don’t forget the stamps!

2. Post It

Now all you need to do is mail the postcard on your nearest postbox or post office.

When your postcard arrives, its recipient will register it using its Postcard ID. This will make you eligible to receive a postcard from another member — and where your postcard will come from is a surprise!

3. Hurray! You’ve got mail!

One day you’ll check your mailbox and a postcard from someone far away will be waiting for you!

4. Register the postcard

Now it’s your turn to register the postcard using its Postcard ID. That’s it!

Oh, and you don’t need to wait to send more — you can have several postcards travelling at the same time. The more you send, the more you will receive!

It’s so simple! We joined years ago and have sent and received over 40 postcards from places like China, Russia, the USA, and Finland! You get a notification each time your postcards arrive at their destination. Postcrossing tells you the number of days it travelled, and the total kilometres, too.

My family loves this new hobby, and it’s been the perfect activity when the kids need something to do. Plus, think of the printing, spelling, and geography lessons that are included at no extra cost haha!

I share ours on our Instagram page when they arrive – follow us there to see.

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Prince Charming Can Be A Cinderella: Books That Celebrate Pride Month and Diverse Families

Amber Rohal — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 13:00:04 +0000

Start meaningful conversations with your kids by updating your bookshelves with diverse books for kids when they are young to showcase a variety of families, identities and lifestyles. We are so thankful that Victoria Schwarzl of After All Photography shared with us her favourite books on diverse families.

A Note From Victoria: There are many more great diverse family books (this is by no means a full list!) but this Pride Month I wanted to share with you some of our favourite titles. As we’re a two Mommy family, you’ll notice most of our books centre around two Moms! We have a two-year-old toddler, so this list skews to younger kids. It’s important to see and celebrate all types of families and love in all different forms – after all, it’s love that makes a family!

children's bookS showcasing diverse families

We are thrilled to share these recommendations of diverse books for kids as a great jumping-off point for your at-home library. We’ve included the synopsis for each book, as written by the publishers.

I Love Us: A Book About Family

A celebration of all types of families and the bond that holds each one together: Love! This book includes a mirror so YOUR unique family will be reflected in the story. Work together to fill in the bonus family tree with the names of everyone you love. Families can be big, small, silly, adventurous, loud, or messy, but they all have love in common. I Love Us! is all about the little ways families show they care: breakfasts made, play times shared, hurts soothed, and good times celebrated. With a mirror surprise and fill-in family tree, this special book makes a wonderful gift for children and the people who love them on Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day—every day! Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Pride Colors by Robin stevenson

"The cutest little rhyme with beautiful photography, we've read it so many times that our toddler daughter can recite the entire thing by memory!" Through gentle rhymes and colourful photographs of adorable children, Pride Colors is a celebration of the deep unconditional love of a parent or caregiver for a young child. The profound message of this delightful board book is you are free to be whoever you choose to be; you'll always be loved. Celebrated author Robin Stevenson ends her purposeful prose by explaining the meaning behind each colour in the Pride flag: red = life, orange = healing, yellow = sunlight, green = nature, blue = peace and harmony, and violet = spirit.

My two moms and me by Michael Joosten

Families with same-sex parents are celebrated in this board book that follows busy moms and their kids throughout their day—eating breakfast, going on a playdate, heading to the pool for a swim, and settling back in at night with a bedtime story and a good-night lullaby. LGBTQ+ parents and their friends and families will welcome this inclusive and cheerful book that reflects their own lives and family makeup. "Gorgeously illustrated by a fashion designer, shows different types of two moms families in everyday adventures - if only our life really did look like this!" Also available, My Two Dads and Me by the same author.

love in the wild by katy tanis

The sweet rhyming text in Mudpuppy's Love in the Wild Board Book highlights the many different types of love that can be found in the animal kingdom! This colourful celebration of love is based on scientists' observations of same-sex couples, adoption, non-binary gender expression and more. Author-illustrator Katy Tanis is currently earning an MA in Biology from Miami University of Ohio. Her graduate work, partnering with the Wildlife Conservation Society, explores the promotion of conservation biology through art.

Heather Has Two Mommies by Lesléa Newman

"This is one of the first books we found for diverse families and it's been around forever! Deals with going to school and having to explain a two Mom family in that environment." Heather’s favourite number is two. She has two arms, two legs, two pets—and two mommies. When Heather goes to school for the first time, someone asks her about her daddy, but Heather doesn’t have a daddy. Then something interesting happens. When Heather and her classmates all draw pictures of their families, not one drawing is the same. This delightful edition for a new generation of young readers features fresh illustrations by Laura Cornell and an updated story by Lesléa Newman.

All Kinds of Families by suzanne lang

"One of our faves, showcases all different types of animal families and all of the various family members that can form a family using fun animal families." Lots of nontraditional family structures are celebrated in this super-fun and super-accessible board book! Kids will love finding their own family represented, no matter if they have two moms, one grandpa, or just a cousin named Doug. The brilliant creative team behind Grumpy Monkey wanted a simple book they could use to talk with their kids about the different kinds of families they would encounter in the world--so they made this! A silly and positive introduction to open-mindedness and all kinds of family love.

And Tango Makes Three by justin richardson

"Based on a real life love story of two male penguins at the New York City Central Park Zoo, who fell in love and were provided with an egg to hatch from a zookeeper. When we first read this book, we cried it touched us so deeply - I don't think anyone could read through without a happy tear!" At the penguin house at the Central Park Zoo, two penguins named Roy and Silo were a little bit different from the others. But their desire for a family was the same. And with the help of a kindly zookeeper, Roy and Silo got the chance to welcome a baby penguin of their very own.

We're Different, We're The Same by bobbi kates

Elmo and his Sesame Street friends help teach toddlers and the adults in their lives that everyone is the same on the inside, and it's our differences that make this wonderful world, which is home to us all, an interesting—and special—place. This enduring, colourful, and charmingly illustrated book offers an easy, enjoyable way to learn about differences—and what truly matters. We’re Different, We’re the Same is an engaging read for toddlers and adults alike that reinforces how we all have the same needs, desires, and feelings.

Maiden & Princess by daniel haack

Once in a faraway kingdom, a strong, brave maiden is invited to attend the prince's royal ball, but she's not as excited to go as everyone else. After her mother convinces her to make an appearance, she makes a huge impression on everyone present, from the villagers to the king and queen, but she ends up finding true love in a most surprising place. "Truly one of our most important books - a fairy-tale for 2021 where a maiden falls not for the Prince, but for his sister, the Princess and they ride off into the sunset living happily ever after. It means the world to us to have found a fairy-tale that represents our love and that we can share this with our children. It's important that the noble royal family is Black and the characters are all ethnically diverse. There's also a male love story as well, The Prince and the Knight."

love makes a family by sophie beer

"This is from a fabulous author and illustrator who also created a similar book about acts of kindness (Kindness Makes Us Strong) and features ethnically diverse characters and families." Love is baking a special cake. Love is lending a helping hand. Love is reading one more book. In this exuberant board book, many different families are shown in happy activity, from an early-morning wake-up to a kiss before bed. Whether a child has two moms, two dads, one parent, or one of each, this simple preschool read-aloud demonstrates that what's most important in each family's life is the love the family members share.

You Were Meant For Me By Sheri Sturniolo

"We custom ordered this book from the UK based on how our family was conceived. It's aimed at a slightly older child and does such an excellent job at breaking down and explaining how our family was created with love and a little bit of science. We are so excited to read this to our daughter and answer all of her questions when she's a bit older! The books are customizable depending on family creation, including: Mom, Dad, Donor Donating Family Mom & Mom Dad & Dad Mom, Dad Surrogacy Single Mom By Choice Mom, Dad, IVF.
youweremeantformebook.com/

shop local for your diverse library

Victoria has purchased diverse books for kids for her at-home library online and in-store from Indigo.ca

about victoria

Victoria Schwarzl is a family portrait and lifestyle photographer in Burlington. She specializes in capturing all types of families made with love especially in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. You can find her behind the lens at After All Photography.

keep learning and growing

Find more great parenting articles here, including a list of books and resources to discuss race and racism with kids.

The Best Trackers and Apps for New Parents

Amber Rohal — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Chantale, a new mom, is sharing her favourite apps for new parents to help make your transition to a new parent a simple and joyful one.

Navigating the new world of parenthood can be extremely intimidating. No matter how many hours you log in to your prenatal class or how many books you read, there is nothing that can truly prepare you for once that baby is placed in your arms. In my own experience, right after G was born by c-section, I was wheeled into a room and after a few checks here, we were left to tend to this new being ourselves. That’s when I looked at her and thought ‘oh my word, what the heck do I do now?’ Maybe some of you had your mom instincts kick in right away but that was not the case for me as I’m sure was also the case for many of you. I remember constantly questioning myself at every bump and turn that we faced as new parents.

I thought it would be a great idea to share some amazing apps for new parents that exist to help make this transition a little bit easier. Obviously, there are loads and loads of apps out there but this list is simply ones I personally have tried or what my mom friends have recommended. If you recommend any apps for new parents, please share them in the comments!

TRACKING APPS FOR NEW PARENTS

I remember coming home from the hospital with some tracking chart I was supposed to fill out. Did you get one? I haven’t seen that chart since day one! So the first thing I downloaded was a tracker app. When it comes to sleep, feedings, dirty diapers, medication, it can be so overwhelming to keep track of everything. Thankfully, there’s an app for that! Here are some of the top ones:

BABY DAYBOOK – This one allows you to track TONS of things including feedings, sleep, diaper changes, food, pumping, drink, bath, potty, toothbrushing, medicine, temperature, vaccinations, doctor visits, tummy time, walks, crying, playtime, symptoms, etc. It’s very extensive so you can use it for more than just the baby stage.

OVIA PARENTING – This is a more simplified tracker geared more at the newborn stage. This one tracks sleep, feeds and diapers.

HUCKLEBERRY – This tracker is geared towards helping specifically with sleep, but also tracks feeding and diapering. In addition, Huckleberry provides you with a ‘sweet spot’ for when to put baby down for a nap, plus it tracks how long it took baby to fall asleep.

INTRODUCING BABY TO FOOD

The next milestone you will encounter is introducing food. Another overwhelming journey with many different approaches that can also thankfully be tracked through an app.

NUTTRI – Nuttri is split into different age categories and covers foods allowed for each of those ages. It gives preparation suggestions, nutrients details and suggestions on how to purchase it (organic vs not). In addition, Nuttri also tracks all the foods you serve to the baby and if there’s any kind of reaction, if they liked it or not.

FINDING NEW MOM FRIENDS AND BUILDING A VILLAGE

No one is meant to go through motherhood alone, so how do you find mom friends?

PEANUT – An essential parenting app if you’re the first of your family and friends to have a baby! The best way to describe the Peanut app is Tinder for meeting moms. Create a profile with the age and gender of your child along with some of your interests and city. Then you swipe to connect with the moms that pop up. (Personal plug for this one, I met my daughter’s BFF on this app!)

DEVELOPMENT/PLAY IDEAS FOR YOUR NEW BABY

There are so many points in a baby’s development that are just beyond what we can comprehend or keep track of. We don’t always have time to research all of the upcoming milestones that baby is headed towards. Or to know what activities you should be encouraging your baby with. These apps have that covered for you.

PLAYFULLY – As baby gets older they will want more opportunities to play. This parenting app provides age-appropriate play ideas for each stage of your baby’s development.

THE WONDER WEEKS – Right from birth, your baby will work its way through different developmental ‘leaps’. These leaps will involve times of increased fussiness and clinginess or changes in sleep. You’ll learn what is going on developmentally at each of these leaps and ways you can help to guide your baby through it.

PARENTING APPS – TRACKING IMMUNIZATIONS FOR YOUR BABY

One more thing to keep track of with a new baby is their immunizations. Every two months your baby will have a doctor’s appointment for immunizations but do you know what for and more importantly, where did I put that darn little yellow booklet?!

CANImmunize – This is a digital vaccination record for your child. For example, do you remember those yellow cards your baby’s doctor or nurse gives you? This can replace that. It provides you with a scheduled timeline of what vaccinations to expect at which visit. It also just provides tons of great information about vaccinations both for baby and yourself.

Parenthood is a lot to wrap your mind around. These apps for new parents are meant to take the guesswork out of your new role. In eliminating some of the guesswork, you can hopefully spend more time just being present with your baby. Most importantly, these apps are meant to help you gain confidence in the great job you are already doing as a new parent. If any of these tools are not doing that for you, or are causing more stress and pressure for you, please delete them. Above all, you do you because YOU will always know best!

Family Fun Game Night Ideas

Amber Rohal — Thu, 07 May 2020 13:24:54 +0000

Whether cooperative or competitive, in person or online, game nights can be fun for the whole family! Here are some creative and out of the box ways of hosting a Game Night.

How to Plan a Game Night

Step 1: In Person or Online?

It’s always fun to gather everyone in the living room for a video game or around the kitchen table for a board game.

If you are opting to play online, you’ll need to make sure all of the players and teams are fluent in technology, or at a minimum, comfortable. Our three favourite ways of connecting for online game nights are FaceTime (with iPhone/iPads), Zoom video chatting, and the kids have started using Facebook Messanger Kids to video connect. Stay connected with family friends near and far.

Zoom is the “all-encompassing” favourite for our house because it doesn’t require a certain phone type or social media account. Just an internet connection and a screen.

Step 2: Get Yourself Some Refreshments

Game night needs snacks! And here is what love to pair with a little family game night fun.

Christy’s Gourmet Gifts has game night snacking down pat! I love the candy tray filled with all the essentials, and you’ll love the chocolate caramel pretzel puddle!

The Sweetest Thing is located in Kerr Village and is home to some of the yummiest baked goods ever. You absolutely must have the Crispy Chewy cookies and the lemon loaf.

Donut Monster makes my fave donuts! Pre-order a day or two before and game night will be your new favourite night of the week! Highly recommend the classic apple fritter and the double coconut!

Film.ca has fresh, movie theatre popcorn and snacks.

Step 3: Choose Your Games

We polled our community and boy did they deliver! We asked what they are playing right now and we never expected so many answers. We’ve broken them down into categories based on the age and demographic of your Game Night friends.

For in person Game Nights check out our Best Family Board Games for Every Age, or read on for more and online suggestions.

Online Games for Kids

These games are so simple that they don’t require a whole lot of parental involvement (assuming you don’t want to be involved!) for kids ages 8+ I’d say.

Bingo! – If you have a Bingo set at home, you can drop off some Bingo cards if your friends are local and one person can be the caller. Don’t already own Bingo? You can download bingo cards from the net or buy your own set here.

Charades is an easy one, and so much fun to watch! The kids act out movies, TV shows, books, songs and anything else they can come up with. And when you run out of ideas, we looooove this board game version of Kids Charades.

Scultp-It is like charades, but with play dough. Kids do their best to replicate something (anything) and their friend needs to guess what they’re creating. You can either freehand this one or get yourself the official Sculpt-It board game.

Battleship can be played online or tabletop.

Guess Who? is the ideal way for kids to play solo with their friends online. The game is simple, and if both friends have it, they can easily play with little help needed. Or drop a board off to the friend/family member if they don’t have it.

Pictionary is another one that is just as fun to play as it is to spectate – especially with kids as the artist! Grandparents will get tons of laughs out of this one for sure. Buy it here.

Game Night for The Whole Family

In addition to all of the games listed above, we’ve got some more that you’ll enjoy with the whole family.

Scattergories is a new fave, and our kids are just starting to get fast at it. It’s basically a “things that begin with the letter ___” game, so everyone can play, and all you need is quick thinking and fast writing! You can buy the original game here, or try the card game. For zero cost, you can also find the Scattergories categories here, and a very decent online version here. Plus, you can also download the app for iOS and Android for free and play your family online.

Yahtzee is a classic for almost 50 years now for its simplicity and mild-mannered competition (unless you’re my family). You can find the original Yahtzee scorecard here, and as long as everyone has dice – game on!

Farkle is new to our family, but we recommend it already. It’s another dice game, but your challenge is to be the first to get to 10,000 points. All you need is a pen and paper to keep score, and everyone needs their own dice. And we needed this cheat sheet. Easy-peasy!

Kahoot! Your kids may already be playing Kahoot in the classroom. “Kahoots” are user-generated multiple-choice quizzes that can be accessed via a web browser or the Kahoot app. This is a great way for a kiddo to get their friends guessing, or to make up a quiz for the grandparents. Who can name the pups from Paw Patrol? Or “Can you name all of my favourite things?” The ideas are endless.

PlayingCards – PlayingCards.io lets you play any tabletop game, in your browser, multiplayer with your friends, for free! Card games like Poker and Crazy Eights, and board games like Checkers, Chess and Backgammon. You play online with a partner, and the screens are synchronized so your partner sees your moves as they happen. This is another great one to play with the grandparents or friends.

Games For Grownups

These games are a little more risque so make sure you do you research if you’re going to propose one for family game night.

Jackbox Games has been a fun one for our Ladies’ Zoom Nights. You need to pay for Jackbox Games, about $20 to buy, but it’s already paid for itself. One of us loads it on their computer and shares the screen with everyone else via Zoom. It was trivia, drawing games, word games, and more. Plus, they have additional party packs, so the fun never has to stop.

Evil Apples is new to me, but it looks great! If you’ve played Cards Against Humanity, the Evil Apples app seems to be very similar. “Evil Apples is a filthy & hilarious card & party game for adults looking for dirty humor and fun times!” Be prepared for some colourful language and topics!

Picolo – If the kids are in bed, and you’re not having to wake up early with them, Picolo was recommended but many of you as a fun way to connect with your friends and a few “beverages” if you get my drift. This app, available for both Android and iOS, is easy to play and only (thankfully) lasts about 15 minutes. But feel free to keep going if you can handle it

Refresh family game night! We rounded up our favourite board games right here.

The post Family Fun Game Night Ideas appeared first on Active Parents.

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