our top Resources for Parents
Parents need a break! We’ve got some great cheat sheets here to help make your family time easier and more fulfilling. We add more articles all the time, so check back often!
Things To Do This Weekend With Kids: Events and Activities
The weekend is here and we have combed through our events calendar to bring you a list of fun things to do this weekend in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and beyond!
Things To Do On Mother’s Day: Events, Ideas and Brunch Spots
Mother’s Day is fast approaching and it’s one more great opportunity to celebrate the mother figures in your life! We can help you spoil those moms in your life with our inspirational list of things to do on Mother’s Day.
The Best Drive-In Movie Theatres in Hamilton Halton and Niagara
Taking the kids to a drive-in movie is a classic memory maker. This list curates your options for drive-in movie theatres in Hamilton, Oakville, Niagara and more. You have a variety of options to choose from.
Oakville Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Dive Into These 5 Indoor Water parks in Ontario
Escape the winter blahs when you visit one of the best indoor waterparks in Ontario! We have several to choose from, so our guide will help you compare features and amenities, plus prices.
Chess Clubs For Kids: Oakville, Burlington and Hamilton
In our guide, you will find chess clubs in Oakville, chess clubs in Burlington and Hamilton-area clubs. They welcome kids of all skill levels from newbies to future youth chess championship winners!
Dance, Gymnastics and Cheer Programs in Hamilton
Discover the best cheerleading, dance, and gymnastics programs for kids in the Hamilton area with our comprehensive directory. Find the perfect fit to keep your child active, engaged, and having fun.
Our 10 Favourite Things to Do with Kids in Niagara Falls, Ontario
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.
Family Vacation: Sherkston Shores Cozy in the Quarry Cottage
Sherkston Shores is a popular family vacation destination, and one we hadn’t been to before! It is a spot that I’ve had recommended to me many times by annual visitors. Read on to learn more, and hear my thoughts on our visit.
Pier 4 Park in Hamilton Has a Tugboat!
Meet me at the pier – Pier 4 that is! This waterfront destination in Hamilton is full of reasons to visit from an amazing nautical-themed playground and is just a hop, skip and a jump from the famous Theodore Tugboat Too!
LaSalle Park in Burlington – You Gotta Go Here
LaSalle Park in Burlington’s west end is one of our favourite parks to visit. It’s got an upgraded playground that kids love, vast amounts of green space and of course, easy access to the marina and waterfront.
Norton Park Burlington
One of Burlington’s largest parks, Norton Park is home to something for everyone, at every age, during every season. You’re going to love playing here at this park & playground.
Brant Hills Park Has A New Splash Pad!
Brant Hills Park in Burlington is a park and playground full of possibilities for kids who love to climb, run, splash and play! And that’s most kids, right? Thanks to
William Connell Park in Hamilton Has TWO Playgrounds
When you visit William Connell Park in Hamilton you’ll be treated to a combination of a natural playground, a traditional playground, and more sports fields than you could imagine! SPRING
The Best Hamilton Skate Parks According To Locals
Summer is the prime time for skateboarding, scootering and BMX biking, and these Hamilton area skateparks provide the perfect location for kids (and adults!) to perfect their next trick! If
The 5 Coolest Skate Parks in Oakville, Ontario
Oakville is home to five outdoor scooter and skate parks, spread throughout the town. They vary in size and style, but all pack a punch of fun and exercise for kids on wheels. We have details on what each one offers so you can choose the coolest one for your little thrashers.
Skateboard and Scooter Parks in Burlington
Burlington has 10 skateboard and scooter parks spread out across the city. Each one has different benefits, and we’ve laid it all out here to help you choose your next
Shell Park in Oakville – Skate Park, Playground, Gardens and a Big Dog Park
Have you been to Shell Park in Oakville? This park space truly has something for everyone, no matter their age! Your family – from babies to retirees – will find
Ride the Antique Carousel at Lakeside Park
Take a trip back in time when you ride the antique carousel at Lakeside Park in Port Dalhousie. It really is a thing of beauty and nostalgia.
Centreville – A Full Day of Toronto Adventure For Families
I hadn’t been to Centre Island since I was a kid, so I was thrilled to go back with my mom and my own kids, and the day was even more fantastic than I expected.
Glamping in Ontario at Four Corners Algonquin
One of the best summer getaways we’ve had so far is glamping in Algonquin with Four Corners Algonquin. The comfort level and 5-star accommodations made this a vacation to remember. If you’re thinking of glamping in Ontario, you need to check out everything that Four Corners has to offer.
Free Things To Do With Kids This Month
This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there’s something for every family.
2024 Solar Eclipse – Where And How To See It
A total solar eclipse is heading your way! On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be able to be seen across parts of Mexico, the US, and Canada and we have front row seats here near Burlington!
18 Easy Easter Activities
I love any holiday that involves crafts and baking, and Easter is no exception. But I always have bigger dreams than I can execute. I envision myself a mini-Martha Stewart,
Central Park in Burlington Has A Super Fun Playground
Burlington‘s Central Park is aptly named because it’s smack dab in the middle of an area filled with things to do for families. The playground was just renovated, and here
Hamilton Area Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Hamilton and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Burlington Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
C Hotel By Carmen’s
We love a great staycation! So when we heard about the March Break getaway promotion at C Hotel by Carmens, we knew a mini getaway to close-by Hamilton was in our immediate future.
Win Family Passes To SpringFestTO 2024!
SpringFest offers Greater Toronto families an indoor fun park with the latest in children’s entertainment, games and activities. SpringFest is thrilled to be back for another year of quality family entertainment.
Opening Thursday! Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans
Springridge Farm is a long-time family favourite place to visit. This is a great place for multi-generations to visit together. The grandparents have as much fun as the kids do! Let us show you why Springridge Farm in Milton is always a great way to spend a day.
13+ Things to Do At Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville is just one of the 340 Ontario Parks. We visit multiple times a year in every season because there’s always something fantastic to do at Bronte Creek. Here are some highlights of what you can expect when you visit.
Parent Support Groups and Social Programs
Parent support groups and social programs for new parents are a great way to connect with parents in the same stage of parenthood as you are. New parents, experienced parents,
Local Farms and Zoos in Hamilton and Halton – Places to See and Feed Animals
Kids will glow when they get to see some local and exotic animals and insects on your visit to these places. Visit one or all of them! Remember to bring your summer essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and a water bottle.
Where To Donate Your Stuff Near Hamilton and Burlington
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
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory (Photos + FAQs Answered)
Experience a tropical oasis right in the city when you visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at the beauty and learn why your family will thank you for taking them.
Art Gallery of Hamilton – How To Visit For Free!
The Art Gallery of Hamilton is one of the city’s best places to visit for families. And we have the scoop on how you can visit for free! Read on to find out.
High-Energy Excitement at Activate Burlington
Activate in Burlington will have the entire family on the edge of their seats with excitement and energy!
Digital Dilemmas: Parenting in the Age of Screens
Parenting in the digital age is challenging. As a parent, I understand the difficulty navigating the delicate balance between harnessing the benefits of technology and mitigating its potential drawbacks. Thank you to Susie Beghin, RECE, Author, and owner of Alpha’s Discovery daycare centres for providing her experience and expertise on this topic.
2024 Guide To Easter Egg Hunts And Events
With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about fun activities to do with your family and friends. One of the most exciting events of the season is the Easter egg hunt. And lucky for you, there are plenty of options right in your local area.
Summer Camps in Burlington
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Milton Summer Camps 2024
Summer is just around the corner and for many parents, that means finding fun and educational activities to keep their kids occupied during the long break. Milton summer camps offer
Family Day 2024 – Fun Things To Do With Kids
Celebrate Family Day with the kids! Below you’ll find a long list of great things to do in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Hamilton! Family-friendly events, all in one place to help you make the most of this long weekend.
The Hamilton Aviary Bird Sanctuary
A visit to The Hamilton Aviary is a great way to feel tropical while supporting this wonderful, volunteer-run bird sanctuary in Dundas, Ontario.
Fishing in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and More
If you are asking yourself “Are there any great fishing spots near me?” then you are in the right spot. With the help of our amazing community of readers, we’ve
Best Donuts in Hamilton, Burlington and Beyond
Baked or fried? Yeast or cake? Filled or ring? However you like them, we’ve got ’em! Our guide to the best doughnuts in Hamilton and Burlington, as voted on by
Outdoor Birthday Party Venues
If you are lucky enough to have a summer birthday, take your party outside to one of these outdoor birthday party venues.
Maple Syrup Festivals 2024: Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and More
Is there anything more Canadian than visiting a Maple Syrup festival and eating freshly-poured-on-snow maple syrup candy? We don’t think so, either! That’s why Active Parents has rounded up these local Maple Syrup festivals in Ontario that you should visit. Bon appetite!
Free Fishing Weekend 2024 in Ontario
In 2023, Ontario has planned four Free Fishing weekends. These are times when you can fish without a licence. They are a great reason to get out with the kids and try your hand at angling.
Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks: Hamilton and Niagara
Kids indoor playgrounds near Hamilton and Niagara are magnets for children! I know mine love them. They offer a new and exciting destination full of high-energy activities for kids of
Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks in Burlington Oakville Milton
Indoor play centres and trampoline parks are excellent destinations no matter the weather or season! When you want something high-energy and full of excitement, an indoor play place serves your needs.
Family Weekend Getaway at Best Western Leamington
We took a weekend getaway to Leamington of all places! And I’m as surprised as you are to say that this hotel is now going to be one of our most recommended local stations! Read on to find out why we loved it so much!
100+ Awesome March Break Activities For 2024
March Break 2023 is full of things to do in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and the Waterloo Region. We’ve loaded our events calendar below and put together a long list of March Break activities and fun things you can do with the kids this week (or anytime)!
The Best Toy Stores in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville
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.
Your Complete Guide to Oakville Summer Camps
The countdown to the last day of school is on and that means parents like you are looking for summer camps in Oakville. If your kids need care during the summer, we have a list of the best summer camps near you! Art camps, Music Camps and STEM camps, plus everything in between!
Valentines for Kids That Aren’t Candy – Non-Food Valentines
Looking for great ideas for Valentines that aren’t chocolate? We can help you there! Most schools ask that, in order to control allergens and sugar intake, kids bring non-food Valentines
Music Classes Near Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville and Milton
Embrace your child’s talent and register them for a music class in Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville or Milton today! Our list will help you find a local class or school that will help foster your child’s skill or passion.
8 Reasons Your Family Has to Visit London Ontario Soon!
Put London Ontario high on your list when you’re planning your next family getaway. Whether your crew includes little kids, big kids or grandparents, The Forest City has plenty to do for everyone.
Kids Cooking Classes: Hamilton and Halton
Are you looking for cooking classes for kids in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville? We’ve put together a huge guide of all of the ways to get your kids into the kitchen!
Family Photographer Guide
If you’re looking to get maternity, newborn, milestone, first birthday, cake smash or family photos taken, this is the resource for you! We’ve compiled a list of local family photographers and their specialties. Capture your adorable kids at every stage of their cuteness with a professional family photo session. Our list includes Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Hamilton photographers and photo studios.
Cambridge Summer Camps For Kids 2024
Are your kids counting down the days until school is out for the summer? It’s definitely an exciting time, and it’s also the time that parents like you are looking for summer camps in Cambridge. If your kids need care during the summer, we have a list of the best summer camps near you!
50+ Hamilton Summer Camps For Kids 2024
It is only weeks and days until school is out for the summer! Kids are excited and parents like you are busy looking for the best Hamilton summer camps! If your kids need care or just some entertainment this summer, we can help you find what you are looking for. We know our guide is much easier than throwing “summer camps Hamilton” into your fave search engine.
Parent and Tot Programs in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville
Parent and Tot classes are a great way to have fun with your little one, while also learning new skills and meeting new parents and kids.
Free and Cheap Things To Do in Burlington With Kids
Some are well-known places to visit and some are hidden gems only the locals know about. We are bringing you our favourite free and cheap things to do with kids in Burlington. And expect this list to grow as we find more and more free, local adventures.
Valentine’s Day Events Near You 2024
Spread the love with your little ones at one of these Valentine’s Day events. We have lots to choose from, all gathered into one easy-to-use guide because we strive to make planning quality time simple.
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Burlington, Oakville and Milton?
“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
Kids Eat Free At These Hamilton Area Restaurants
We love restaurants where kids eat free which is why we love this list of restaurants where kids eat free or cheap in Hamilton.
Outdoor Summer Camps in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville
Outdoor Camps For Kids in Hamilton, Oakville, Burlington and Milton Outdoor camps are exactly what summers call for! Enjoy as much sunshine and fresh air as possible, right? Winters are
30 Easy Acts of Kindness for Kids
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!
Natures Superheroes: Brand New Winter Exhibit at RBG
Royal Botanical Gardens is back with another amazing, interactive exhibit for the winter and spring. If you have school age kids or lifelong learners, this is a great way to spend a few hours together.
Feel Like A GIANT At Little Canada
When you’re looking for things to do in Toronto, Make sure to consider a visit to Little Canada. They have put together some miniature displays of some of Canada’s most popular locations. The detail and the size will blow your mind!
15 Local Toboggan Hills: Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville
Tobogganing is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to keep kids entertained on a snowy day. Grab a sled and your snow pants and use our list to find a tobogganing hill in Hamilton and Burlington to visit.
15 Ways To Earn High School Volunteer Hours
No one expects a grade 9 student to know what they want to be when they grow up, so if your high school student hasn’t identified their passion or skill yet, don’t worry. We’ve got great suggestions on how to earn those volunteer hours, and maybe unlock a hidden passion or talent!
23+ Outdoor Skating Rinks in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Outdoor ice skating rinks are a great place to take your kids in the winter. Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Hamilton each are home to multiple ice skating rinks, open all winter.
Cross-Country Skiing Near Hamilton and Burlington
Cross-Country skiing in the Halton and Hamilton areas is a great way to get outside and be active, all while maintaining a safe physical distance. Here’s where you can cross-country ski near you.
8 of The Best Snow Tubing Hills in Ontario
We have some fabulous locations for snow tubing near us. All this snow makes now the perfect time to find a snow tube hill nearby and plan an exciting day on the slopes with your family.
2024 March Break Camps in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps for kids in Kitchener and Waterloo. Our Camps Guide will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
March Break Camps 2024 in Hamilton
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Hamilton! Our Guide to March Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out. Active Parents includes every single camp we come across because we want to help parents (and kids!) choose the best camp to complement their passions and personalities.
March Break Camps 2024 in Burlington, Oakville, and Milton
Our Guide to March Break Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out.
2024 March Break Camps in Niagara Region
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Niagara, St. Catharines and the Region. Our Guide to Spring Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Niagara?
If you want to know where kids eat free today in St. Catharines and Niagara, we got you! You can even find some eateries that offer daily or weekly kids eat free in the Niagara Falls area.
How To Borrow Free Parks Passes From Your Library
Your library has free family passes to local conservation areas, Ontario Parks and botanical gardens. Here is how to borrow them!
Valentine’s for Veterans
Spread some love and kindness by making and sending Valentines for Vets in Canada’s Armed Forces. Read on for tips, dates and addresses to send your Valentines for Veterans. Sending
Adult and Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Party Ideas
Looking for New Year’s Eve at-home ideas? Want to throw a new years eve party for kids? We’ve got you covered from decor to food to ways to celebrate midnight with little people who can’t stay up that late!
Things To Do On New Year’s Day
Happy New Year! If you are looking for things to do on New Years Day with kids, sit back and let us help you out! Active Parents has put together a list of great options because not everything is closed!
30 Breakfast Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ideas Your Family WIll Love
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.
The Easiest Way To Track Santa’s Sleigh with NORAD
Here is how to track Santa’s sleigh as it makes its way through the night sky, delivering gifts to children around the world who celebrate Christmas.
Where To Play Laser Tag – Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, KW Area
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. Here is where you can find the best laser tag near you.
Things To Do On Christmas Day: 20+ Activities You Will Love
The holidays are all about spending time with families and friends — but that doesn’t mean you have to spend that time…at home! Whether you have to shift your Christmas dinner plans or you don’t celebrate Christmas, there are still a lot of fun things to do on Christmas Day.
The Best Escape Rooms Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara Area
Explore the immersive escape rooms across Hamilton, Burlington, and the Niagara. These interactive adventures create lasting memories and provide a shared experience that encourages communication and cooperation.
18 Awesome Arcades Near You in Hamilton and Halton
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.
13+ Bowling Alleys and Centres Near You
Bowling with the whole family is one of our favourite things to do. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be skilled in the sport to have a great time, have lots of laughs and maybe score a turkey!
Paint Your Own Pottery Studios and Art Studios
Indoor play centres and trampoline parks are excellent destinations no matter the weather or season! When you want something high-energy and full of excitement, an indoor play place serves your needs.
50+ Things To Do This Winter
Let’s banish those winter blues! Here are more than 50 things to do during winter in Hamilton and Halton area, including Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Waterdown, Hamilton, Stoney Creek and beyond.
Walk Through and Drive Through Christmas Lights Displays
Enjoy the season by going to drive-thru Christmas light festivals and walking through light displays. No matter which of these Christmas light experiences you choose, you will agree that Ontario is all glowing with magic during the Holiday season.
Enjoy Christmas town, Winterlit and Winter Fun at Mountsberg Conservation Area
Mountsberg Conservation Area is located in Campbellville and features outdoor activities and attractions suitable for everyone from littles to tweens. Grown-ups, too!
Winter Break Camps in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville
Winter camps during school breaks offer children a fantastic opportunity to stay active, engaged, and socialize in a supervised and enriching environment. These camps provide a break from routine, encouraging kids to explore new activities, make friends, and learn valuable skills in a fun setting.
80+ Stocking Stuffers for Kids of Every Age
Our family loves opening our stockings on Christmas morning. It’s like the pre-game show to the big present-opening party. Here are some of our favourite stocking stuffer ideas, and ones that come highly recommended by our community of parents like you.
Martial Arts For Kids Near Halton and Hamilton
Welcome to the Parent’s Guide to STEM Classes, Coding, and Robotics Classes for Kids. Coding, robotics and STEM classes offer an exciting journey into the world of innovation, problem-solving, and creativity! In this guide, you will find classes and programs for kids in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara.
20 Things To Do With Toddlers At Home
We asked our toddler experts – parents! – how to keep a toddler entertained at home during the inclement weather. Here’s what they said. Toddlers are funny little humans who
Family New Year Events 2023
We know it’s a time-honour tradition to ring in the new year with a celebration of some size, and we can help you outsource the planning and cleanup. 3…2…1… Let’s ring in the new year with the kids!