toddlers Archives – Active Parents

Shell Park in Oakville – Skate Park, Playground, Gardens and a Big Dog Park

Amber Rohal — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:40:00 +0000

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 something that keeps them coming back time and again.

where is shell park?

Shell Park is a large park, playground and garden pace in Oakville. It’s located on Lakeshore Ave., just east of Great Lakes Drive. With ample free parking, at various lots throughout the park, you’ll find a spot easily if you drive over.

The Playground

We’ve always loved this playground because of the rubberized play surface and the mature trees that provide lots of shade – essential for us redheads who burn easily. The playground has lots of ways to climb, balance and swing, and I know your kids will have fun here.

shell skate park

My 10-year old claims Shell Skatepark are one of her favourite skateparks. The immense size and impressive graffiti make it a top-rated cool kids hangout. If you’ve got younger kiddos or skaters with less experience, definitely aim for a morning visit. It can get busy once the teenagers arrive. We’ve never had an issue, though. In fact, we’ve had great experiences with the “big kids” at Shell Skate Park. There are a few parent benches around the skate park, and lots of parking.

The beautiful Gardens

I’m an amateur gardener and all-around nature lover, so the beautiful gardens at Shell Park are always a favourite stop for me. The gardens are paved with stepping stones and because they are lovingly maintained by dedicated folks, they are in bloom all spring, summer and fall in some fashion. Bring your camera and snap some inspiration for your own garden, or some photos of your adorable kids in a gorgeous setting.

it has a dog park, too!

I wasn’t fibbing when I said that Shell Park has something for everyone – even pooches! This dog park has high ratings from canine owners. The dog park has 2 pens, one for bigger dogs and one for little guys, and in warmer months, there is water on-site to keep them hydrated. If you need shade or shelter from the rain, there is a little hut as well.

shell park amenities

Shaded playground with swings, slides, lots of climbing and balancing apparatuses
Skate Park for skateboards, bikers, rollerblades and scooters.
Ample Parking
Massive, high-rated dog park
Gardens and green spaces
Washrooms
Lots of benches and picnic space

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

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13+ Things to Do At Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Amber Rohal — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:29:57 +0000

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. If you enjoy this park and playground you’ll want to explore these playgrounds too.

The Children’s Play Barn

Your admission to the day use area includes unlimited play at the play barn. Kids will love that they get to run, jump, swing and slide inside a real barn. Open spring, summer and fall.

Springtime on the Farm

Bronte Creek is home to many animals including cows, goats, chickens, peacocks, sheep, rabbits and more! There are animals around throughout most seasons. Visit in the spring when you can meet baby animals that were born earlier that year.

Most animal experiences are open in spring, summer and fall.

Harvest and Winter Festivals

Visit the Spruce Lane Farmhouse on the fourth weekend in September for the Harvest Festival. Pick up a pumpkin and enjoy yummy snacks like kettle corn and freshly pressed cider. Fall is a great time to visit the animals and take a wagon ride over to the play barn.

Winter at Bronte Creek brings on the Victorian Christmas preparations, games and food of the festive season. Enjoy crafts, stories, treats and games. It’s certain to get you into the spirit of the season.

Check out the Friends of Bronte Creek website to see if there are any special events happening.

Walk The Gnome Road

The Gnome Road is a great reason to visit. It’s home to little wooden houses decorated like gnome homes. Follow along a very stroller-friendly walking path just at the tree line near the play barn and yellow playground.

There is a good tree canopy as well, so some shade for anyone who needs a break. Open all year.

Bronte Creek Swimming Pool Closed

Bronte Creek Pool has been a family favourite for years because of its size and beach entry. The park has confirmed that it will remain closed for now. Personally I don’t see it reopening anytime soon, unfortunately.

See The Salmon Run – Don’t Miss This!

Fall is the time of year when the salmon migration runs through Bronte Creek Park. We first saw them in 2020, and it was honestly magical. Nature controls the migration, so there is no specific time to see them. They generally make their way to spawning grounds in September/October.

Directions to a viewing area. Park in Lot F, and walk toward Spruce Lane Farm. Behind the barns and the cow pasture, there is a trail marker for the Half Moon Valley Trail. When you get to a fork in the trail, go left, which is trail 4.

Tip: Bring appropriate footwear and a camera. Note that this trail has stairs.

Bronte Creek Animals

When we visited in the fall, we thought the barns we all empty for the season. We were pleasantly surprised to see the cows were out and so were these massive rabbits!

The Old Oak Tree

We read about the great White Oak tree, which started growing in 1685. I was surprised to learn it is one of the biggest oak trees in Ontario.

So Many Playgrounds!

Kids will have fun at the playgrounds and play structures as you make your way through the park.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park Playground Features

climbers
swings
pull-up bars
slides
tic tac toe
playground fireman pole

Bronte Creek Provincial Park Amenities

Play Barn and farm animals
Spruce Lane Farm House (circa 1899)
playgrounds
campsites
walking trails
picnic areas
disc golf course
pool (current closed)
toboggan hills and ski and snowshoe trails
washrooms

Easy Walking Trails

Bronte has stroller-friendly trails that are easy for kids. You can walk by the creek, among the tall trees, or on the gravel paths that go all around the park.

While you’re walking at this Oakville Park, look for the unusual cylindrical buildings and picnic shelters with real wood-burning fireplaces and sinks. Lots of opportunities for using your imaginations, and a ton of green space to run off all that energy kids have.

Tip: Bring lunch or dinner and have a picnic.

Check Out Our Video of Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Even More Reasons To Love bronte Creek

Bronte is a park that offers educational programs like the Maple Syrup Festival, Ghost Walks, Camper Halloween, and Victorian Christmas. It’s a popular destination for classes and families looking for interactive experiences throughout the year.

Bring your furry friend and let them enjoy a little fresh air freedom at the dedicated leash-free section of the park.

Disc golf is a challenging and fun activity in nice weather. Bring your own frisbees, stand at the marker, and throw. Your goal is to land your disk in or as close as possible to the hole. Perfect for some fresh air fun, and no experience necessary.

Come in the winter months and enjoy cross-country skiing and tobogganing with the family.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park camping is easy and ideal for first-timers because if things don’t go as planned, you’re not far from home. I know many families who have gotten their “camping legs” at Bronte. You can tent or RV camp from May through October, or stay at one of the park’s yurts. For camping fees check here.

Tips for Your Visit

Comfort stations include washroom facilities with flush toilets and handwashing facilities. They are near the Playbarn, Spruce Lane Farmhouse and various points around the park.

You can hike and bike on the trails.

Bring your binoculars because we permit and encourage bird watching.

Bronte has picnic benches all throughout the park, so pack a picnic or snack spread and dine al fresco.

Admission and Park Memberships

Bronte Creek Provincial Park offers a variety of price deals and discounts. Prices vary for everything from walk-in day use to RV camping. You can find them all here on their official website.

Hot Off The Presses!

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Waterdown Memorial Park Has a Massive Skate Bowl, Playground and Paved Path

Amber Rohal — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:36:49 +0000

Waterdown Memorial Park is filled with natural beauty and great amenities for families. Read on to find out why we love visiting this park among other family friendly Hamilton locations.

What Drew Us to Waterdown Memorial Park?

The skatepark of course! If you’ve been following along on our Instatories, you’ll see that almost every single day we visit a skate park. My kids have become scootering fanatics, and this is one way to get fresh air and be together. Who can say no to that?!

The skatepark is pretty awesome. Its paint job alone makes it a fun place to be for every age. It’s all drop-ins and bowls (that’s skater “speak”) and kids who like to glide and roll over hills will love it. The park is used by everyone: skateboarders, scooter kids, trick bikers, and they’re all ages. I saw dads who were putting on a show for their kids, and teens who were helping little ones learn the skate park etiquette and wee ones who were decked out in all of their safety gear. It’s a great gathering of skills and demographics.

Related reading: Find all of the top-rated parks and playgrounds here

Playground and Splash Pad

Jump in the spray pad to cool down after skate boarding. You won’t regret it. Little ones love the sprinklers and misters. The surface is concrete and parts are rubberized concrete. It’s a small, but great addition to the park.

I couldn’t figure out if the playground was a circus motif or a rocket ship theme, but it was lots of fun either way. Your kids will love all of the climbers. My girls loved the incline ramp that you needed to pull yourself up. Lots of upper body muscles working there! We visited on a warm Saturday in August and I was surprised that it wasn’t busy. This park had something for everyone of every age, and because of that, we will definitely be back.

Lots of Room For Sports and More

Bring your sports equipment because there are 3 baseball diamonds and a ton of grass space to kick and throw and catch. Bring a kite to fly in the sports fields where there are no trees to get in the way. If your kiddos aren’t comfortable using the skatepark, there is a verrrrrry long loop around the middle of the grounds that is smooth and perfect for gliding. Anything with wheels is perfect to use on it. In the winter, part of the loop is flooded and frozen and becomes a free ice skating rink!

The park is very easy to get to from any direction because it’s on a main street and provides a ton of parking. I drive a truck, so I’m a stickler for places with proper and sufficient parking.

Waterdown Memorial Park Playground Features and Amenities

3 baseball diamonds
mature trees for shade
large, covered gazebo
small splash pad with misters and sprinklers
wide-open field space for sports, kites, running and more
5+ park benches facing the playground
smooth, paved loop for wheeling and rolling
skate park – Want more scooter and skate parks? We have more here
- awesome paint job
- a large “bowl” with lots of drop-ins
- side apparatuses for grinding
playground include
- woodchip groundcover
- 6 slides
- 6 big swings, 5 baby swings and 1 special needs swing
- lots of climbing apparatuses

What’s Nearby?

Right across the street is a Fortinos, and IDA drug store and a McDonalds. Looking for more outdoor fun? These trails and hikes are kid-approved and perfect for the whole family.

Waterdown Memorial Park is located at 200 Hamilton St N, Waterdown, ON.

Hot Off The Presses!

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Maple Park in Burlington is Gated and Has a Skate Park, Too!

Amber Rohal — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:26:08 +0000

Maple Park in Burlington‘s south-west had a makeover and the upgrades make it ideal for toddlers! But bring your big kids too, because this park has fun for all ages!

All About Maple Park

Located just south of Mapleview Centre in Burlington’s west end, this park has a ton to offer families and kids of all ages. Maple Park’s playground was recently renovated and the addition of a fence around the perimeter of the playground means less worrying about your little one running out into the parking lot. The playground is home to swings, slides and a variety of ways to climb and balance. There are small and medium-sized rock climbing walls and the play structure is easy to climb and manoeuvre around on. Little kids will love the slides in 2 sizes and see-saw. They can bang on the drums and balance on the wobbly balance beam. Bigger kids will love the various ways to climb and jump, and everyone loves a merry-go-round! We are seeing more merry-go-rounds appear in parks lately and kids love them.

Related: Find more of our top-rated parks and playgrounds here.

Maple Park is also home to one of Burlington’s five community gardens. Wander your way from the parking lot (shared with the Burlington Gymnastics Club) towards Mapleview Centre and you’ll stumble upon a quaint strolling path complete with plants and flower gardens maintain by the community. It’s a great spot to sit and read while enjoying your tea. You can also add a few steps to your day by taking a longer stroll along the gravel path that stretches from the flower garden all around the perimeter of the park. Perfect for walking with friends or a family pet.

Bring a ball and glove because there are 2 baseball diamonds at Maple Park. There is also one soccer field, and a ton of wide-open space, so no matter what your favourite sports are, you can play them here. Ideal for kite flying and picnicking too! The mature trees offer lots of shade in the summer months and there are a few picnic benches and metal benches spread around the grounds.

Let’s roll! Maple Park skate park is a top draw for kids on wheels. The skatepark sees kids of all ages and abilities rolling around on their skateboards, scooters and bikes. There are sections perfect for a newbie and larger parts that challenge even the adults. Picnic tables and concrete seating offer the preferred perches for parents who will surely be spending lots of time here as spectators.

Maple Park Playground Features and Amenities

Free Parking in 2 connected parking lots
Skatepark with ramps, stairs, quarter pipes and a bowl
2 baseball diamonds
1 soccer field
Wide-open fields
Playground
- fully fenced in
- woodchips groundcover
- merry-go-round
- balance beam
- rock walls and “tires” for climbing on
- 5 swings (2 big, 2 baby, 1 special needs)
- imaginative play parts like truck and drums
- 2 slides
Benches inside the playground and around the skate park
Water bottle refill station
Shade from mature trees

Related: Splash pads and pools and water fun – oh my!

What’s Near Maple Park?

The park is located just south of Mapleview Centre and is easily accessible by transit and close to the QEW/403. Looking for other Burlington skate parks? We’ve got them here.

Tips for Your Visit

Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it at the refill station at the rear of the Burlington Gymnastics building.

Bring wheels and a helmet for the skate park

Keep your pets on a leash and use the garbage receptacles provided throughout the park.

Maple Park – 750 Maple Avenue, Burlington, L7S 2J8

Hot Off The Presses!

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Coronation Park in Oakville – Perfect For Picnics, Biking Paths, and Splash Pad

Amber Rohal — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:22:52 +0000

Oakville‘s Coronation Park is a beautiful park situated on the shore of Lake Ontario. It’s 23+ acres of beauty, and it’s an ideal destination for your next day trip.

No matter the season, Coronation Park is beautiful. It offers beautiful views of Lake Ontario and a variety of ways to stay active and outdoors with your kids. Located between Third Line and Fourth Line and offering 200+ parking spots, this park is a popular spot on weekends in the summer.

Two Playgrounds for Double the Fun!

Coronation Park is home to two playgrounds, each catering to different ages. The smaller playground looks like a treehouse village and has equipment that lets little ones safely climb, crawl and explore at their own pace and at appropriate heights. 2 slides, 3 baby swings and 1 special needs swing, climbers and imaginative play make this park a favourite for the under 5 kiddos.

The second park at Coronation Park is perfect for your climbers! The playground structure offers a variety of ways to climb up and 5 ways to slide down. And once they make their way to the top there are 4 slides for them to zoom down. There are also swings and 3 large, separate rock climbing walls.

Read more: Find more fantastic Parks and Playgrounds here

Coronation Park Splash Pad

This just might be the coolest splash pad we’ve been to this summer. With it’s regal them and super-sized crown that dumps a TON of water, it’s as fun to watch as it is to play in. There are lots of interactive ways to play at this spray pad like directing the trupmets or shields that shoot water. Coronation Park splash pad also features a little misting/low-pressure spray zone for the little ones. Just sitting around the splash pad keeps you cool because the mist floats over.

As you can tell from the pictures, there are lots of shady spots at Coronation Park, even on the playground itself.

Read More: Try one of our kid-approved hikes

Coronation Park Features and Amenities

200+ free parking spaces
Almost 24 acres of beautiful park space
Splash pad with
- dumping bucket
- low-pressure misters and sprinklers for toddlers
- moveable water shooters
2 beach volleyball courts
2 playgrounds – 1 pre-school size, 1 regular, both with woodchip groundcover
- the preschool playground offers tree house style with appropriately sized swings, slides and climbers
- the other playground offers big swings, 3 slides, and 3 climbing walls
Washrooms
Snack bar facility
Covered pavilion with picnic seating
Picnic benches and park benches throughout the park
A small stream running through
Lake Ontario beachfront access
Lots of mature trees offering ample shade, even in the playground

Read More: Dip your toes in the lake at one of the best family beaches around

Tips for Your Visit

If you can visit through the week, do it. This summer Coronation Park has seen a huge influx of visitors and weekends make it harder to find parking and spaces to socially distance.

Coronation Park is located at 1426 Lakeshore Road West

Hot Off The Presses!

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Heritage Green Sports Park: 2 Zip Lines + Tall Climbers

Amber Rohal — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 23:57:35 +0000

A great friend recommended we visit Heritage Green sports complex in Stoney Creek and boy are we glad they did! Here’s why we think you should plan a visit next time you’re in Hamilton!

We Loved Heritage Green Sports Park

It’s not hard to get my kids to go to a park, and it’s so simple when I tell them there’s a zipline! Ziplines are so exhilarating for kids of all ages. Heritage Green Sports Park’s playground has a double zipline, one regular one and one special needs swing chair zipline – this is the first one I’ve ever seen! My kids tried them both out – naturally – and they’re both so exciting!

Read More: Looking for the best playgrounds worth visiting? Read all of our reviews here.

The entire playground was filled with play gear that I had never seen before. A mini ropes course and a rope climbing pyramid are great for kids who love to climb and swing and use their imagination. Their height makes them perfect for big kids and little ones. The rope pyramid spins if you’ve got some muscle, but doesn’t spin fast enough to be scary or dangerous.

Challenging Climbers

My kids were surprised that this park didn’t have any slides, but they would gladly swap sliding for climbing, so slides weren’t missed at all. The standard and baby swings were fun, but my kids absolutely loved the hammock swing the most! Such a unique piece of equipment and the kids at the park were using it in a variety of ways. Heritage Green Park really stimulated their imaginations!

Read More: Download one of our outdoor scavenger hunts and add an extra element to your park play

Splash Pad and Sports Fields, Too

We were there on a day that was a cool 14 degrees out and the splash pad was still on, so if you’re up for a challenge, feel free to bring your swimsuit. On a hot summer day, these water jets and tipping buckets will make for a great splash pad and park visit. Bring some snacks or a picnic and eat at the tables.

The many athletic fields use a majority of the space at Heritage Green Sports Park it’s home to. They’re new and beautiful, and already well-appreciated by the soccer and baseball players.

Heritage Green Sports Park Amenities

Lots of free parking in multiple lots
2 baseball diamonds
5 soccer pitches (4 natural and 1 artificial)
Field house
Dog park
Splash pad
Playground
- 4 swings – 2 regular and 2 baby swings
- 2 zipline swings – 1 regular and 1 special needs chair
- hammock swing
- rope pyramid
- mini ropes course
- spinning and rocking equipment

Heritage Green Sports Park is located at 355 First Rd W, Stoney Creek

Hot Off The Presses!

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Mountainside Park in Burlington – 2 Playgrounds in 1 Visit

Amber Rohal — Fri, 31 May 2024 16:16:50 +0000

Janelle and her girls ventured off to Mountainside Park in Burlington recently and were pleasantly surprised with what they found. It has everything for a variety of age groups between its two parks. That’s right, TWO PARKS and playgrounds!

Welcome To Mountainside Park

Mountainside Park in Burlington is centrally located beside Mountainside Community Centre, home to a 50m outdoor pool with diving board and a waterslide! The outdoor spray pad is a kid favourite with its water shooters, dumping/tipping buckets and mini water slides. During regular times, the Community Centre is home to a variety of City and private programs including after school clubs and hockey.

Let’s call the smaller park directly in front of Mountainside Recreation Centre, Park A. Park A is a smaller park, geared towards the under 5 crowd and has mulch for its base. It is bright and colourful and full of fun for toddlers to pre-schoolers. There is a lot of shade near the forest for a quick picnic snack before you adventure off into the forest for a short family-friendly hike over to the other Mountainside Park.

Lots of Space To Explore at Mountainside Park

The trails in and around Mountainside Recreation Centre are perfect for all ages. Mulch ground makes it doable with a stroller. There are many different pathways throughout that intertwine, so you can make the hike a short or as long as you’d like. The forested area includes a few bridges, lots of large tree stumps and plenty of forest animals roaming about. There are some great geocaches hidden there, and this is one of our fave “starter spots” for newbies to geocaching. See the map at the bottom of this post to see an overview of the forested area as well as its relation to the two parks.

Park B, or the other Mountainside Park has plenty of entertainment as well. The playground equipment is perfect for your adventurous toddlers and school-aged kids. Park B has a paved path all around it, a small skate park, a playground, one basketball net as well as a ton of green space.

Mountainside Park is home to a playground designed for adventurous kids, it has so many unique features. Some that I don’t even know what to call them! There’s something here for everyone from swings, to steep slides to monkey bars and more!

You can easily spend a few hours between these parks and the forested area and still not feel ready to go home yet. We definitely recommend checking out these parks.

Mountainside Park A Amenities:

Plenty of free parking
2 benches
Shade from the nearby forest
Small hiking trails connecting the two parks
Small playground with mulch as its base
- Side-by-side slides – perfect for a race
- Small rope climber
- Triple bouncer to get those wiggles out
- 3 regular swings and 1 baby swings

Mountainside Park B Amenities:

4 parking spots
4 benches
Shade from the forested area all around it.
Small hiking trails connecting the two park
Skate park
Basketball net
Short paved path
Playground with mulch as its base
- 4 regular swings, 1 baby swing and 1 accessibility swing
- 3 tall steep straights slides and a spiral slide
- Balance beam
- Wobble board
- Triple bouncer
- Monkey bars
- Rope climber
- Wobbly car & place
- Unknown Contraption

You can visit Mountainside Park at 2205 Mount Forest Drive in Burlington.

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

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Exhibition Park is a Huge Natural Playground in Guelph

Amber Rohal — Fri, 31 May 2024 16:10:35 +0000

I love a good day trip, and this summer we’ve been doing many! A few weekends ago we grabbed the kids and hopped in the car to visit Guelph – and here’s why…

Guelph is about 45 minutes – just under 60km – from Burlington, and our main inspiration for the trip was to check out Exhibition Park, Guelph’s natural playground. A natural playground is essentially a park made almost entirely of wood. Limited plastic and metal, with loads of opportunity for exploration.

Exhibition Park

Exhibition Park, one of Guelph’s natural playgrounds, was the first official natural playground we’ve visited. My kids were oohing and aahing from the backseat when we arrived, and can you blame them?! Look at this playground! It’s like a wooded wonderland for kids who love to climb and make-believe.

The Park is home to a few different play areas, each one more impressive than the last. There’s a huge section that can best be described as a “spider web of logs”. Immediately their shoes were off and the kids were scaling the logs and making their way from one end to the other. The heights range from about 2 feet at the lowest point to 7 or 8 feet at the highest. My girls are 8 and 10 in these photos, and it was a challenging apparatus for them, something they don’t get to experience much at conventional parks.

My 8-year-old has yet to meet monkey bars she didn’t love, so she was in her glory with all of the climbing bars at Exhibition Park. The various log climbers, ramps, and log walls put balance to the test and make kids focus on their footwork. At the same time, their imaginations are running wild with everything they see on this natural playground. Open-ended play is the name of the game here.

La Piece Du Resistance

There was one thing about Exhibition Park that made it stand out from every other park we’ve been to – The Water Pump. Yup, a real, working hand pump that PUMPED. REAL. WATER. Take that in for a minute. I scored a million mom points at that very moment. Shoes and socks were immediately removed and car washes/water deliveries/other fun stuff ensued. (Note, during the pandemic and winter, the water pump has not operated)

Playground Features

log jam
log sculptures
play posts
hanging bars
stumps
water feature
(by Earthscape Play)

Exhibition Park Amenities

walking & riding trails
football field
softball & hardball diamonds
pickleball & tennis courts
wading pool
natural ice rink
parking
washrooms

Make a plan to visit Exhibition Park in Guelph soon. We’ve been in the summer and the winter, and both seasons are great. The short drive is definitely worth it! Plus, we have 10 additional things to do in Guelph to add more to your day trip. Or, check out this OTHER natural playground in Guelph and really blow your kids’ minds!

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Tansley Woods Park in Burlington Has Trails and a Japanese Garden

Amber Rohal — Fri, 31 May 2024 15:47:05 +0000

Tansley Woods Park and Playground is a great spot to spend an afternoon. The playground is great for all ages, and the paths make for a beautiful stroll.

Where Is Tansley Woods Park?

The Tansley Woods neighbourhood is situated centrally in Burlington and easily accessible from almost any main road or highway. So convenient to get to. There is a parking lot for those driving, and the grounds are stroller-friendly if you’re walking from the neighbourhood or from the Tansley Woods Community Centre.

Tansley Woods Playground

The playground at Tansley Woods is such a great structure for kids of all ages. It is spread out and has a little something for everyone. The playground is “woods-themed” and kids will love the little touches meant to make them feel like they’re exploring a forest. There are two playgrounds, one smaller toddler-sized playground and the larger, main playground structure. The toddler playground has a few slides and climbing options, very similar to the larger playground but created for pint-sized kiddos.

The rubberized play surface will come in handy as kids race around trying out all that the park has to offer. The main playground has a ground-level entry point that toddlers will love. It gives them easy access to chase their big kid friends onto the play structure.

Got monkeys? I do! Kids who love to climb will love Tansley Woods Park because there are a few unique climbing options for them to try out. Scroll down to see snapshots of the different equipment.

Is there a path at Tansley Woods Park?

Tansley Woods Park, as the name suggests, has a beautiful wooded area with a couple of walking and biking paths. Bring your scooters and strollers and wheelchairs because you’ll love the paved paths.

Are there Pickleball courts at Tansley Woods Park in Burlington?

Yes! Recently installed, and open to everyone, the pickleball courts at Tansley came during 2020 when we were all desperate for something new to do outdoors. You can pick up your own paddles and balls fairly inexpensively at Canadian Tire and Walmart, or if you’re a resident of Burlington, you can borrow them for free from the City parks and rec equipment lending library.

Tansley Woods Playground Features

3 big swings, 2 baby swings and 1 special needs swing
Rubberized ground covering
Lots of slides in various sizes
Many climbers and balancing apparatuses
Ride-on and imagination toys

Tansley Woods Park Amenities

Walking trails near a gentle stream
Pickleball court
Playground
Washrooms
Basketball courts
Tennis court
Baseball diamond
Beautiful Japanese garden and bridge

Tansley Woods Park is located at 4100 Kilmer Dr, Burlington, ON L7M 4Y3

Photographer Profile

Victoria is a talented photographer specializing in capturing all types of families made with love, their furbabies and branding for small businesses and Mompreneurs. Her company, After All Photography (https://www.instagram.com/afterallphoto), launches this spring serving Halton, the GTA and Muskoka.

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

The post Tansley Woods Park in Burlington Has Trails and a Japanese Garden appeared first on Active Parents.

Visit Lowville Park in Burlington Every Season

Amber Rohal — Wed, 15 May 2024 15:39:00 +0000

The amount of fun, fresh air and family time you can get from a visit to Lowville Park in Burlington is limitless! We try to visit a few times every summer, at least once in the fall and we even come back for tobogganing in the winter!

During the warm months, Lowville Park is a great destination for families who want to play at a playground, have a picnic, fly a kite or explore the Creek. Come back in the fall to catch the salmon running upstream. They will surprise you with their size and speed! They don’t have an official “spanning date” so watch our Facebook and Instagram pages because we’ll let you know when to visit.

Lowville Park – Why We Love It

Lowville is a favourite destination of our’s because it truly is an all-season park. We love to visit in the spring and summer because the immense trees provide ample shade throughout the park, which is perfect for my easy-burn skin. Their shade is the ideal spot for a picnic, cloud watching, or just setting up a family base camp for your day of adventure.

The number 1 reason that we love Lowville Park is that 50 kilometres of Bronte Creek flows through the park and its beautiful features. The water is cool and clean, and the amount of unplanned education we get when we get to go on creek walks and turn over rocks is amazing. Nothing beats nature and fresh air to make learning so easy. We like to bring buckets and a minnow net to see what creatures we can capture to study. We have found that a white bucket works best for this, but any colour will do. Catch and release once you’re done observing, unharmed is the name of the game.

The Playground at Lowville Park

In addition to the water play in Bronte Creek, make sure you bring your favourite sports equipment because the grassy fields run for miles. Soccer, a baseball and some gloves, frisbee, Wiffle ball, whatever you love! It’s a perfect destination to socially distance without worry. There are trails and paths that offer some great exploring, no matter your age or ability. All-terrain strollers and wagons can make simple work of the paths. Don’t forget the insect repellant if you’re planning on a walk along the trails. When you’re done fishing for minnows and crayfish, turn those nets into butterfly nets!

Visit the Old School House and The Epic Staircase

Be sure to explore as much of the grounds as you have time for, you’ll love what you find. There is an old stone schoolhouse that is just timeless in its beauty and simplicity. We shared this monolithic staircase photo on our Instagram and everyone immediately knew where it was.

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A Few Tips for Your Visit to Lowville Park

Washrooms are open and available at Lowville Park, but water fountains are not available so bring your reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated.
Bring your bug spray if you plan to wander the paths in summer.
Take a ton of photos. This is one of Burlington’s most sought-after photography locations for a reason! Especially in the fall.
Pack a picnic, there are various spots to set up and enjoy

Lowville Park Amenities

greenspace
creek
walking/running trails
picnic areas
washrooms
parking
baseball diamonds
toboggan hill (find other city approved toboggan hills here)
playground

Lowville Playground Features

climbers
slides
swings

Do You Have To Pay For Parking At Lowville? Do You Have To Make a Reservation?

From the City of Burlington: “Visitors to Lowville Park should reserve their free parking spot for park visits from May 18 until Oct. 7, 2024. Reservations can be made online using Park Pass and are needed on weekends and holidays between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. There is no charge for reservations.”

During off-season months (fall and winter) you DO NOT need to book a reservation for Lowville Park. But in Spring and Summer, you do. Reservations are free and can be booked online easily. I’m not 100% sure the reason, but I believe it’s to limit the number of cars, and avoid street parking while is forbidden and enforced in the area of the park.

How to Reserve Your Time Slot at Lowville Park

Click here
Choose your day and 3 hour time slot, number and age range of people in your party, and enter your name, email address and license plate.
You’re done!

This is ONLY required between May 18 until Oct. 7, 2024.

Lowville Schoolhouse, courtesy of the Burlington Historical Society, Muriel Goodbrand, BPL.

More Parks You Are Sure To Love

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Brant Hills Park Has A New Splash Pad!

Amber Rohal — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:55:54 +0000

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 Esther and her kids for checking it out for us!

Enjoy The Splash Pad at Brant Hills Park

During the summer of 2021, a new splash pad was built at Brant Hills park and it’s been popular with visitors! There are a few unique water sprayers and sprinklers. When it’s time to refuel, you can snack at the picnic tables with the umbrella covering.

Amenities

My kids (ages 6, 3, and 1) had a great time at this park in Burlington! Their favourite part was the various climbing options and while there, being able to run to a different play structure. Due to the smaller sizes of both structures, it would not entertain kids over the age of 7 for very long. Here’s what you’ll find at Brant Hills Park in Burlington.

Playground One – Orange and Blue

two slides
monkey bars
lots of climbers, including nets
splash pad with various spray options
one baby swing, 4 regular swings, one adaptable swing

Playground Two – Green and Yellow

two slides
monkey bars
1 baby swing and 3 regular swings

This playground is located on a large piece of property that is also home to multiple baseball diamonds for teams of all ages, a community centre and the Brant Hills branch of Burlington Libraries. Lots of parking makes it easy to visit, and ample grassy fields make kits flying and ball-playing ideal. The playground is park woodchips, park concrete (where the splash pad is). If you visit during the hours that the community centre/library is open, you can use their washrooms and water bottle refill station.

What’s Nearby?

Tim Hortons, Pizza Pizza, a grocery store and more are located a short drive away if you get hungry while playing or need to pick up a few things. The park is also located on a transit route to make visiting easier.

Brant Hills Park is located at 2300 Duncaster Dr, Burlington, ON L7P 4C2

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

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William Connell Park in Hamilton Has TWO Playgrounds

Amber Rohal — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:53:12 +0000

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 NOTE: Contractors will be on-site to install a new wheelchair accessible swing between the existing playground and spray pad. All park assets will remain open for public use; however, some interruptions can be expected. (Source)

There’s nothing I love more than a good playground recommendation, and when an Active Parents fans sent us a few Instagram photos of a new park she found, we just had to visit! William Connell Park delivered a great afternoon for my kids, and I know your kids will love a visit too!

Sports Fields Galore

When we first arrived we took our basketballs and soccer ball to play in the fenced court. I love that the court is fenced in because then all of our wild shots didn’t have us running all over the park to retrieve the balls. It also had built-in hockey nets that we used to practice our soccer skills. again, thankful for the fences to keep the balls close by. There were also a regulation-size football field and soccer field, which are both fenced off, and can be used if you book a permit with the city of Hamilton.

Traditional Playground

After we were done being sports superstars, we played at the traditional playground. It’s not very big but it had some apparatuses we hadn’t seen before, so my kids liked it. There were various ways to climb, swing, and balance which my adventurous kids like.

Natural Playground

The natural playground at William Connell Park was fantastic. We played many games of “the floor as lava”, and the various ways to climb and balance really challenged my 10-year-old. It even challenged her mom! The beauty of the natural playground is that it gives the kids tons of opportunities to use their imagination. Balancing, jumping, and climbing are so good for kids in so many different ways. Another great park addition in Hamilton.

William Connell Park Amenities

Traditional playground:
- Multiple slides and various sizes
- A variety of climbers
- Teetertotters and spinning apparatuses
- Lots of ways to climb and balance
- Ground covering = wood chips
Natural playground:
Fenced-in basketball court with permanent hockey nets
Football field and soccer field with use by permit only
Paved paths throughout the entire property make it very stroller-friendly and scooter-friendly
There were washrooms, but they weren’t open when we were there.
Ample parking near both playgrounds

William Connell Park is located at 1086 West 5th Street, Hamilton.

Read more of our park and playground reviews to find your new favourite afternoon hangout.

Find more free and cheap things to do in Hamilton right here.

Start the car! Take one of these day trips to a fun family adventure.

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Central Park in Burlington Has A Super Fun Playground

Amber Rohal — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 18:26:30 +0000

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 is what you can expect to see!

Central Park is a highly visited location for families all year long. It shares a parking lot with the central branch of the Burlington Public Library and is adjacent to Central Arena and the New Street Seniors Centre. It’s also home to my favourite Burlington attraction, the Teen Tour Band.

Some of these apparatuses I’ve never seen before, so I have no idea what to call them…except “awesome”! They offer new ways to climb and balance and work those muscles. Kids need to challenge themselves, and this park will do that. They also provide new ways for kids to use their imaginations – what will they turn those funky boulders into?

Balancing and adventure walking will be a big hit when you visit. The new equipment offers many ways to move throughout the playground.

There are slides in every size and shape at Central Park, which are perfect for catering to kids of varying ages. The new playground has the same number of swings as before: 4 big swings, 1 baby swing and 1 special needs swing.

Central Park Amenities

Playground amenities include
- Swing: 4 big swings, 1 baby swing, 1 special needs swing
- Rock climbing boulders
- Stationary Jeep
- general store / restaurant
- Ride-on elephant
- rubberized playground surface
- various slides in various heights
- lots of climbing and balancing apparatuses
Central Library
Central arena
Baseball diamond
Soccer field
Central Park Bandshell
Community garden
Cricket Pitch
Central Park Labyrinth
Home of the Teen Tour Band
Drury Lane Theatre
Burlington Lawn Bowling Club, Senior’s Centre, Tennis Club, and Rotary Youth Centre

Central Park is located at 2255 New Street in Burlington.

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Parent and Tot Programs in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville

Amber Rohal — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 18:23:04 +0000

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. Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville mom and baby classes and parent and tot programs are a great way to mix up your at-home routine and add something new to the calendar.

Hosting a Parent and Tot program in Hamilton, Burlington or Oakville? Click here to add it to this guide.

City of Burlington

The City of Burlington offers a wide variety of recreation programs for all ages and abilities, from educational programs to sports, events and social programs, to support active living and a healthy lifestyle. We offer register and drop-in programs to suit your needs. These programs typically include: Sports and Fitness: Activities such as skating, pickleball, swimming, yoga, play fit and fitness classes. Arts and Culture: Programs in music, including bands, student theater and cultural events. Youth and Family Programs: After-school programs, summer camps, drop-in programs, such as basketball. Older Adult: Social gatherings, fitness classes, and educational programs tailored for older adults. Community Events: Festivals, and special events that bring the community together. Outdoor Recreation: Hiking, biking, nature walks, tobogganing, golf and other outdoor activities. Burlington Recreation, Community and Culture is about enhancing the quality of life […]

Creative Edge Dance Studio

At Creative Edge Dance Studio, our goal is to provide all dancers with the opportunity to believe in themselves through the art of dance. With the instruction of our young, talented and award-winning staff we offer a positive and fun environment for all our dance families. What We Offer: Special workshops and intensives with world-renowned choreographers including Blake McGrath, Toyko, Amanda Cleghorn and more!) Drop-In and Open Classes Recreational Programming for 2 ½ -18 years of age Adult Classes Full Time Competitive Part-Time and Pre Competitive Programs Street and Contemporary Programs Birthday Parties Summer Camps for Competitive and Recreational Dancers

Goldfish Swim School - Oakville

Goldfish Swim School is proud to offer year-round swim instruction for children ages 4 months to 12 years. Our swimming lessons for kids are based on the philosophy that children learn through play! Our tropical facility was specially designed for kids, with a shiver-free, indoor 90-degree pool, kid-friendly amenities, and a strong emphasis on water safety. Our perpetual lesson program includes free makeup classes, meaning scheduling is flexible for busy families! Goldfish Swim School Burlington also offers Pool Parties for a SPLASHtastic birthday event, and will take care of everything, including set up and clean up! Look out for us at community events and schools, plus teaching lifesaving Water Safety information to kiddos in our community with our FREE W.A.T.E.R. Safety Program! Burlington: https://goldfishswimschool.com/burlington-ont/ Oakville: https://goldfishswimschool.com/oakville/

Museums of Burlington Toddler Days

Our toddler program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum from 10:30am to 12:00pm on Wednesday mornings. The cost is $10/child (accompanying adults are complimentary). Each session is a different theme. The program is designed for children ages 2 - 4, pre-registration is required.

Aqua-Tots Burlington

At Aqua-Tots Burlington, children of all abilities from 4 months-12 years old become safe and confident swimmers in our year-round, indoor, 90° pool.

Art Gallery of Burlington

The AGB is Burlington's public art gallery and community centre. We are a place of intersection where creators, cultures, and communities meet and share in creativity.

Atlantis School of Swim

Provides swimming lessons for all ages. We offer private (1:1), semi-private (2:1) and small group (3:1) lessons.

Back to Basics Swim Academy

We have taught thousands of students the life skill of Swimming. We have a program to get your family into the swim of things.

Blossom Musik

Teaches the Kindermusik program to parents and kids under 5 in Hamilton and Burlington.

British Swim School - Burlington

The teaching fundamentals at the heart of our aquatics program have not changed, but we are elevating the steps we’re taking to keep you safe during swimming lessons with us.

British Swim School - Milton

The teaching fundamentals at the heart of our aquatics program have not changed, but we are elevating the steps we’re taking to keep you safe during swimming lessons with us.

Burlington Gymnastics Club

We might be biased, but we can’t think of a better place for little ones to learn about movement and play than in the gym. Full of fun colours, shapes, and surfaces! By playing in and exploring the gym, you will be providing your little one with a fun and interactive experience. Our gyms have designated preschool spaces, and all equipment is adaptable for tiny hands and feet allowing our littlest gymnasts to move and explore easily.

Burlington Trampoline and Tumbling

Burlington Trampoline and Tumbling’s competitive trampoline and tumbling program produce athletes who are ranked provincially, nationally and internationally. We offer fun-filled, high energy recreational classes, which help kids develop confidence, strength and agility. In our state-of-the-art facility, we offer classes all year round in Trampoline, Tumbling, NINJA ZONE and more!

Centre Ice Training Academy

Promoting and providing a high quality organized hockey experience. Centre Ice would like to encourage the game of hockey through skill development, quality leadership, understanding teamwork and good sportsmanship in an atmosphere that is positive and fun for all. We want to help foster personal excellence in all athletes, regardless of their skill level or gender.

City Dance Corps

A fun and welcoming, education-focused dance studio for kids ages 3-16! We offer ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap, and more - helping kids grow creatively and physically. RAD ballet exams, performance groups, birthday parties, and private coaching available. Join the dance family! Business Name : City Dance Corps Youth Address: 2630 Bristol Circle, Oakville, ON Website:https://www.citydancecorpsyouth.com Phone: 416-260-2356 Email: [email protected]

Dancesations Dance Academy

Dancesations Dance Academy offers a variety of classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, acrobatics, lyrical and contemporary. For children and teens ages 3 & up

Enchantment Theatre

Enchantment Theatre provides Early Years Music Classes, and Children's Theatre performances to Families in the Hamilton Area.

Fit For Fun

Fit For Fun is a physical education program that develops fundamental movement skills and sports skills in a fun and engaging way. Classes are run by a certified teacher.

Go Bananas!

Our facility is designed with kids in mind - with colourful and creative things to climb everyone from 25-300lbs is welcome!

Goldfish Swim School - Burlington

Whether you are looking for weekly group lesson pricing for your baby or are interested in your advanced swimmer joining our swim team, our pricing page for Goldfish Swim School - Burlington ONT has all the info you'll need to get started.

Gymalaya Burlington

Gymalaya with locations in Vaughan, Newmarket, and Burlington is GTA’s best recreational gymnastics facility, offers recreational gymnastics classes with state-of-the-art equipment designed specifically for young children. The kid size proportions of the equipment help motivate the children, enhance their performance and increase safety.

Kindermusic With Miss Corrie

Niagara's top music and movement classes for young children.

Lil Rockers

Located in Milton, Ontario, Lil’ Rockers is specially designed to teach foundational music concepts to babies, toddlers, and pre-school age children. Our research-based early childhood classes encourage both children and adults to become and remain music makers throughout their lives; nurturing innate musicality, inspiring creativity, and making learning fun!

Little Kickers Burlington

We give children a positive intro to sport by teaching high quality soccer skills in friendly, pressure-free environment. Our classes are tailored for ages 18 months to 8 yrs.

Little Kickers Grimsby

Little Kickers is a non-competitive program that uses imagination and play-to-learn basic soccer skills. Our 1.5 - 2.5 yr class is a full parent and tot class. This means our parents get to join in on the FUN! The next age group is 2.5 - 3.5 yrs old and the main goal for this age group is taking a step back from our parents and learning independence. The Mighty Kickers program starts at 3.5 yrs old and goes up to their 5th birthday. This class introduces team concepts and mini-matches at the end of each class. Our final age group is our Mega Kickers for children 5 - 7yrs old. This group will work on a different skill each week such as passing, defending, striking etc. They will also play a structured soccer game for half of the class. The main goal of our program is to give all children a positive introduction to sports! Classes are running in Ancaster, Stoney Creek, Hamilton and Grimsby.

Little Kickers Hamilton

Little Rebels

Not your typical music class or song circle – this is music for kids with a twist! Our classes get kiddos moving, grooving, and learning – independently! We use renditions of Broadway show tunes, rock ‘n’ roll, Motown jams, and a few kids classics. We integrate movement and props into our classes to make it fun for the whole family.

Little Yogis Academy Halton

Little Yogis is a mobile Yoga & Mindfulness program for kids aged 2 - 13 years in the Halton Region (Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Georgetown) with the goal of improving physical, mental, and emotional health through our curriculum. Little Yogis partners with schools, childcare centres, non-profit and for-profit organizations to improve the health and wellness of our communities. We are proud to be an approved external service provider for the Halton District School Board!

Making Waves Swim School - Guelph

Making Waves Swim School - Milton

Mommy Connections

It takes a village. We’re here to help you build yours. Our programs, which take place in 30 communities across Canada, offer a unique opportunity to connect with other moms at the same stage as you, learn from local experts and try new activities – all while bonding with your baby, toddler (or both!)

Mr. Ben's Music

Mr. Ben’s Music offers group classes for children ages 0-6 in a fun, caring and immersive environment. Since its inception in 2011 it has quickly become one of the most popular children's music programs in the Greater Hamilton Area.

Music Together Giggle and Groove

From babyhood through the early elementary years, Music Together nurtures each child’s natural musicality in a playful, musically rich learning environment. Our research-based music classes are designed to be non-formal and non-performance oriented, so your child can learn at his or her own pace, in a way that’s developmentally appropriate.

Music With Miss Michelle

Music With Miss Michelle offers "Fam Jam" the fun parent and child music class that you will look forward to each week! Private vocal lessons and group vocal classes too!

Oakville Academy for the Arts

Dance classes in every style for kids ages 6 and older. They also have programs for pre-school ages kids and parent & baby classes.

Oakville Swim Academy

Offers a full range of introductory, beginner, and advanced swim courses, to help people of all ages learn and perfect their swimming skills. Starting at 6 months through adulthood.

Passion To Fitness

Offers kids gymnastics, dance, cheer and ninja warrior classes to kids from pre-school age through adult.

Performance School of Music and Dance

Offers Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Preschool Dance and Parent & Tot classes.

Red Tree Performance Academy

Sam's Swim Academy

Sam's Swim Academy offers year-round swim lessons, First Aid & CPR certifications and guarding services for pool parties. Dive in and discover a world of aquatic excellence.

Sport Kidz Milton

Ages 18 months to 5 years old

Sport Kidz Waterdown

18 months to 5

Sportball GTA

Sportball offers non-competitive programs for kids 16 months–12 years, teaching soccer, basketball, volleyball, golf, tennis, football, hockey, T-ball.

Summer Swim Academy

Offers private backyard swimming lessons and guarded pool parties to families in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton area, and Milton for children ages 6 months to 14 years old.

Summer Swim Academy Ancaster

Offers private backyard swimming lessons and guarded pool parties to families in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton area, and Milton for children ages 6 months to 14 years old.

Summer Swim Academy Hamilton

Offers private backyard swimming lessons and guarded pool parties to families in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton area, and Milton for children ages 6 months to 14 years old.

Summer Swim Academy Oakville

Offers private backyard swimming lessons and guarded pool parties to families in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton area, and Milton for children ages 6 months to 14 years old.

Summer Swim Academy Waterdown

Offers private backyard swimming lessons and guarded pool parties to families in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton area, and Milton for children ages 6 months to 14 years old.

The City of Hamilton

Hamilton offers learn-to-swim programs for all ages, starting with parent and tot programs, at various city recreation centres.

The Common Moms

Join us for our art, music, sensory, seasonal and enrichment programs with your little one. We host parent and baby activities and events in Burlington, Waterdown, Milton and Stoney Creek.

The Common Moms Ancaster

We provide Moms and their babies with fun events, activities, programs and resources to enhance both physical and social development as well as make Mom Life a little bit easier. Join us for our art, music, sensory, seasonal and enrichment programs with your little one. We host parent and baby activities and events in Burlington, Waterdown, Milton and Stoney Creek.

The Common Moms Burlington

The Common Moms Guelph

The Common Moms Milton

The Dance Class

We offer classes for ages 2 and up in ballet, jazz, tap, acro, hip hop, pointe, lyrical, modern and musical theatre. We offer daytime, evening and weekend options. Since it’s never too late to fall in love with dance, our adult dance classes offer a great way to stay in shape! The Dance Class has a strong ballet background that follows the Cecchetti Method of Ballet. Dancers can train at a variety of levels and select students will be asked to enter ballet exams in the spring/summer.

The Dream Centre

At The Dream Centre, we pride ourselves on a warm, caring, family atmosphere. We believe high success can be achieved through encouragement and instilling self-confidence in our dancers, gymnasts, martial arts and fitness students no matter what size, shape, age or ethnicity. Our award winning faculty bring much expertise to The Dream Centre and to the Waterdown community.

TipToe Music

TipToe Music is on a mission to make the world a better place by making it more musical by bringing Music Together's music and movement classes to life for kids newborn to 8 years old and the grown-ups who love them.

Waterdown Dance

Waterdown Dancers Inc. is a dance studio located in Waterdown, Ontario. We offer the very best in Kids and Teen dance classes and private lessons.

We Swim Ancaster

We offer year-round private swimming lessons, Parent & Tot classes, group swimming lessons, swim coaching and group Aquafit classes. All of our great programs are tailored to meet your individual needs and various swimming levels.

We Swim Hamilton

Offers year-round private swimming lessons, Parent & Tot classes, group swimming lessons, swim coaching and group Aquafit classes in Hamilton.

World Class Gymnastics

Offers a wide range of classes for all ages starting as early as 2 years old. Their programs include floor work, balance beam, uneven bars, trampoline and vaulting.

YMCA Hamilton Burlington Brantford

Each location has swimming lessons for kids starting as early as 6 months old, right up to lifeguard status. Special needs programs are 1:1 and available as well.

YMCA Hamilton Burlington Brantford

Each location has swimming lessons for kids starting as early as 6 months old, right up to lifeguard status. Special needs programs are 1:1 and available as well.

YMCA Hamilton Downtown

Each location has swimming lessons for kids starting as early as 6 months old, right up to lifeguard status. Special needs programs are 1:1 and available as well.

YMCA Les Chater

Each location has swimming lessons for kids starting as early as 6 months old, right up to lifeguard status. Special needs programs are 1:1 and available as well.

YMCA Ron Edwards

Each location has swimming lessons for kids starting as early as 6 months old, right up to lifeguard status. Special needs programs are 1:1 and available as well.

Zacada Circus School

Circus performance training and recreational circus classes. The classes offered are acro gymnastics, aerials, trampoline, trapeze, tight rope and more. The Circus Cubs is a program offered for children 2-5 years of age. Camps are 6+

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Hidden Valley Park is a Must-Visit Destination

Amber Rohal — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:03:05 +0000

Have you been to Hidden Valley Park in Burlington? Many parents agree it’s one of Burlington’s best free things to do. And get this, Hidden Valley is home to 2 playgrounds, each completely different and so worth talking about. Love this park? Here’s even more local playgrounds to explore!

Welcome To Park 1 at Hidden Valley Park

Hidden Valley Park needs to be high on your list of parks to visit if you’ve not been yet. Located in Aldershot, we were originally drawn to it because my kids love monkey bars and geocaching. If you have a monkey bars fan, they’ll get a good challenge here.

Hidden Valley Park is located off of Plains Road West, just west of Waterdown Road. There is a large gravel parking lot, with enough parking for about 40-50 visitors. When you arrive, you’ll breathe a huge sigh of relief as you see the – cue the angels singing – public washrooms. Yes, it has public washrooms!

The park is fenced in on the side facing the parking lot, with the perfect mix of enough fence for safety, but not feeling like it’s closed in. As I mentioned, we were on a mission for monkey bars, so my trio of terrors took off for the play structures. Hidden Valley Park has a larger structure and a smaller one. My kiddos were 6 and 8, so they had no trouble with any of the equipment. I saw little diapered kiddos roaming all over too, but on the above-ground structure there are openings, so they’ll need to be supervised.

Playground Equipment At Hidden Vallery Park

Hidden Valley has a variety of climbers and slides, and the ramps that connected them provided just as much entertainment. The kids imagined that the structure was everything from a tree house a la Swiss Family Robinson, a pirate ship, a space ship and an apartment for superheroes. There were swings for big kids and swings for little kids and a high-back full-support swing. We were happy to see that the picnic tables were wheelchair accessible.

When you walk the Hidden Valley Park grounds, you’ll come to the Burlington Model Railway Club. It was closed on the day we were there, but it is open to the public during its various free events throughout the year.

Geocaching and Exploring

Walk to the wooded side of the parking lot and you come across a bridge that takes you over Grindstone Creek, and to a clearing with what my kids described as a “ghost cabin”. I’m not sure what it was before, but now it’s just a boarded-up stone building no bigger than a shed. And it’s not scary, so don’t worry. We were hot on the trail of a geocache, so we climbed the steep hill and were met with two amazing treasures.

Much like the “ghost cabin”, the history of the rusted-out car is unknown to me, but we had tons of fun imagining how it got there. Was it an off-road ride gone awry? I’d love to know more about either of these little gems, so if you have details, leave them in the comments below.

After our geocache adventure at Hidden Valley Park Burlington, we sat in the gazebo to have a snack and rehydrate, then we hit up the (surprisingly clean) restrooms before getting in the truck and going home. Disclaimer: The restrooms had toilet paper, were checked throughout the day, and didn’t smell, and to me that is clean.

Bridge over Grindstone Creek

Perfect for a picnic

We saw this abandoned car on our first visit

But That’s Not All!

We promised you two parks and we are bringing you two parks! Hidden Valley has a large footprint, so it crossed a road and continues on the south side of Lemonville Road you’ll find more fun and adventure.

While we love the spray pad at the park details above, we love the easy access to Grindstone Creek in this section of the park the most. My kids are huge into creek walking and nature exploring so this is one of our favourite places to visit in Burlington. Bring your rubber boots, a bucket and a small net. You can catch some wee little fish and crayfish to check them out up close. Just remember to catch and release.

And keep your eyes peeled for awesome discoveries like this skull from a furry friend who either died of old age or at the paws of a predator. Science at its finest! There is a pathway that has a great canopy cover from the spring through the fall. It’s shady and packed gravel which makes it perfect for families, wagons and strollers.

This portion of Hidden Valley Park is also home to a playground with a dinosaur theme. Plus swings and climbers, and another shaded gazebo. Pack a picnic because there are dozen of picnic tables to take full advantage of.

Playground Features At Hidden Valley Park Burlington

swings

slides

spring-mounted rescue car

those seats you spin like crazy on

monkey bars for days

Amenities At Hidden Valley Park Burlington

washrooms open seasonally

lots of parking

10+ picnic benches

5+ park benches

shaded gazebo

splash pad operational during summer

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

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Confederation Beach Park Is For Pirate Fans

Amber Rohal — Wed, 17 May 2023 23:50:00 +0000

Take a look at what Hamilton’s Confederation Beach Park has for your kids – you’re going to want to visit today!

Find more things to do…

Are you looking for more parks and playgrounds? We visit them a tell you all about the best ones we find.

Take one of these kid-friendly hikes in Hamilton and Halton.

Ahoy Mateys! Climb Aboard Confederation Park’s Pirate Ship

Confederation Beach Park in Hamilton ticks so many boxes: a variety of climbing options and heights, a cool pirate theme complete with a sunken ship, and wide-open spaces for running and playing. We love going to this park because we can spend a ton of time there – I’m talking hours – and never be bored.

For my kids, the big draw is the whole pirate ship park theme. Its pinnacle is the ship deck that uses kid-power to rock side to side like it’s sailing the high seas. This ship will cause a ton of laughter and will definitely tire your kids out. For a few minutes, anyway!

As you can probably tell by her face in the photo, my youngest thinks these saucer swings are the coolest swings ever. Very few parks have them, so when she sees one, I know the park will become a fast favourite.

Lots to Climb Up and Slide Down At Confederation Beach Park

Another great aspect of Confederation Beach Park is its climbers. The climbers have something for every age. Big kids will love the monkey bars and ropes, and little ones will like the fake logs for balancing and the rock wall. My kids use all of their muscles, balance and imagination when they’re playing here.

More than a playground

What I love about visiting this park, also known as Hamilton Beach Park, is its proximity to the Lake Ontario waterfront and bike path. I can spend all my days near water, and being this close lets you break up the park visit with some tranquillity. No matter the season, this park is a perfect way to spend a day. We love collecting “sea” glass, driftwood, and unique rocks and treasures. Sit on the rocks and downed tree trunks and take a few minutes to yourself!

We drive across the Hamilton/Burlington lift bridge and park at the first lot we see. Then we ride our bikes down to Confederation Beach Park. The bike path is flat and wide and perfect for wheels of every variety. If your kiddo gets bored at the park, they can scooter and bike along the path for a change of scenery.

Pack a picnic lunch as the trees here are mammoth and provide a ton of shade. Wander the grounds and you’ll see some incredible sights and plaques. And as you can tell by my photo below, the washrooms were very clean when we visited.

Playground Features

swings

flying saucer swing

climbers

slides

pirate ship

Park & Playground Amenities

paved path perfect for walking, rollerblading and cycling

beach

close to Lakeland Pool and Splashpad

restrooms

parking

not far away from yummy ice cream spots like Hutch’s on the Beach another others

Have you been to Confederation Beach Park? Tell us your favourite park and maybe we’ll come to see you! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see where we play next!

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Milton Community Sports Park Has The Biggest Climber We’ve Ever Seen

Amber Rohal — Tue, 02 May 2023 14:33:41 +0000

Add a day at Milton Community Sports Park to your summer calendar if you’re looking for a park that has a playground, zipline, basketball courts, beach volleyball courts, skate park and more!

where is Milton community sports park?

Located at Derry Road and Hwy 25, this mega sports complex is easily accessible by car if you’re not local. There is ample free parking. Pop the address 805 Santa Maria Blvd. into your GPS and have a great visit!

what can you do at this Milton park?

In a word. Everything. Outdoors – which is where we were – is equipped with the following areas:

Basketball “courts” – the 4 courts are not big enough for a regulation game but great for free throws, or 3 on 3.

A skatepark with a separate bowl – kids of all ages were able to make use of the various-sized ramps, grinds and drop-ins. The bowl was completely separate from the main skate park, and the kids liked that so they could practice drop-ins without the congestion. This was a large and very popular park. Park your patience.

Beach volleyball courts – we saw kids taking part in a city program on the 6 beach volleyball courts. The courts and nets were in great shape.

A well laid out playground – the playground was spread out very well, so there wasn’t any congestion even those there were lots of kids. The playground has a zipline that was very popular with kids of all ages. 4 big swings and 2 baby swings, a smaller climber perfect for toddlers, and a long climber (see photo) for the more adventurous and skilled kids.

huge climber for the win!

The massive climber that we teased you with in our Instagram stories was the main attraction for my kids. It was over 2 stories tall and somehow was accessible for little kids and a challenge for my tween and teen! I saw some parents make it to the top as I clutched my pearls and kept my 2 feet on the ground.

indoor activities at the community centre

We didn’t venture indoors because nothing is accessible right now, but during regular times you can find numerous ways to stay active and have fun at the Milton Community Sports Park community centre. Swimming, sports gyms, fitness, children’s and adult programming and more will return gradually as the province reopens.

Milton Community Sports Park Amenities

playground

spray pad

accessible swing

skate park

BMX course

soccer fields

baseball diamonds

tips for your next visit to Milton community park

Bring your wheels because there are bike paths and a skate park to roll around. The paths that wind throughout the playground area are all paved, and very stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. And wear comfortable shoes so you can make good use of the walking paths too!

Sunscreen and hats. The trees aren’t yet giving off much shade, and covered seating is limited. There are lots of picnic tables though, so pack a picnic and lots of water.

Bring your balls! Lots of wide-open grass space for soccer, catch, and kite flying.

More Playgrounds You will love

Did you know you can sort our playground and park reviews based on what you need? Hate woodchips? Choose places with rubberized play surfaces. Need a covered or shady spot to set up base for the day? We can help you find that. Everything from great parking to access to washrooms, we know it and we tell you. Click here to find your perfect park.

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Nelson Park is Home to a Pool, Splash Pad, Dirt Jumps, Skate Park and More!

Amber Rohal — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for a park that has it all, Nelson Park in Burlington is where you want to be! Read on to find out why this park sees us at least once a week when the weather is good.

Nelson Pool and Splash Pad

Located centrally in the south Burlington area this park, pool and playground combination truly has something for everyone, during every season. Nelson is Burlington’s most recently renovated pool and it’s beautiful. The pool is huge (50 metres long!) and clean, and offers diving boards, diving platforms, small dumping buckets in the gradual-entry shallow end and an awesome rock-climbing wall,

There are Muskoka chairs and permanent umbrellas along three sides of the pool and shady trees provide some relief from the sun on a hot day. The renovations included adding a variety of great water amenities such as:

a gradual entry shallow end (not just stairs)

small “dumping buckets” in the shallow end

3 depths of water: very shallow, medium shallow and of course the deep end

a rock-climbing wall in the deep end

an awesome splash pad, fenced off from the large pool that includes
- a large dumping bucket
- misters
- sprinklers
- a small playground with slide

The pool and attached splash pad make Nelson a destination perfect for any age.

A Great Playground

The playground has two big swings three baby swings and a special needs swing. The kids will love the four slides and various climbing apparatuses. Nelson Park playground has a circus vibe to it, so kids flock to its bright colours. For parents, there are a few benches and lots of shady trees. The playground surface is rubberized in parts and small rocks for the remaining.

The parking lot is shared with the community centre, so there’s lots of free parking, and being on New Street, there is easy access to Burlington Transit.

Nelson Park Has a Skate Park, Too!

The skate park is long and thin, perfect for kids just learning and ones who want to add a few tricks to their repertoire. There’s no shade at the skatepark, but some shade-giving trees around.

Did I Mention the Dirt Jumps?!

The dirt jumps at Nelson Park were only installed a few years ago and they are the cherry on top if you ask my kids. My adventurous 10-year-old made it through with some strong peddling, but the signage posted does recommend adult supervision for kids under the age of 10. Remember your safety gear for this one.

Nelson Park Amenities

pool & splash park

1 hardball diamond

2 softball diamonds

grass sports field

artificial turf field

BMX park

basketball court

skateboard park

tobogganing

playground

A Few Tips for Your Visit

Bring a chair if you have one, there are only a couple of benches, and they were used when we were there

Not a ton of shade, so SPF yourself up

Make a day of it! Swim, then play at the park while you dry off

Check Out These Parks, Too!

Maple Park in Burlington has a fenced playground and one of the cities best skate parks

Take a short drive to Waterdown Memorial Park for a huge skate park, a large playground and a splash pad

Oakville’s Coronation Park has the area’s best splash pad (as voted on by my kids)

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Burloak Waterfront Park is Accessible and So Much Fun For Families

Amber Rohal — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 13:00:00 +0000

On the border of Burlington and Oakville is Burloak Waterfront Park and it’s going to be your new favourite park. Its Lake Ontario views and rubberized playground base are a huge draws for families from all over the region.

Thanks to Janelle and her kiddos for visiting their favourite parks and writing about them for us all. Here are her notes and tips on Burloak Waterfront Park.

This is a favourite park for families with kids under 8. The rubberized ground cover is a huge draw. Wobbly walkers needn’t worry about scraped knees and parents won’t be picking woodchips out of their kids shoes and clothes after an afternoon here.

The paved waterfront trail is perfect for all kinds of wheels. Pack or ride your bikes and scooters when you visit and you’ll have even more to enjoy. The views of Lake Ontario are beautiful and peaceful and there is lots of green space and shade for a picnic lunch.

Burloak Waterfront Park has Rubberized Ground Covering

With the rubber surface and the minimal stairs and lots of small slides, it’s easy to let the little ones roam free and be independent. The steep spiral slide is perfect for the adventurous kid who loves a thrill, and your tiny ones will love the pint-size slides that will give them their first solo slide ride safely! The park is home to a few mystical creatures, too. But don’t worry, they’re tame and love being included in your make-believe adventures and climbed on.

Afternoon shade is a perk at this park when the weather is hot. But there are lots of mature trees scattered throughout Burloak Park for a quick break in the shade.

It’s easy for the young ones to stay here for hours and still not want to leave. (But really? Does any kid enjoy leaving the park?)

Burloak Waterfront Park Features:

1 spiral slide and 5 small slides

4 regular swings, 1 baby swing and 1 accessibility swing

Straight zip line

Monkey bars

Toddler-sized rock climbing

Imaginative play areas

Burloak Waterfront Park Amenities:

2 small parking lots

Gazebo

Lots of benches nearby

Burloak Waterfront Park is located at 5420 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington.

More Playgrounds

Parents are loving our Parks and Playgrounds guides and you can find them all here.

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Sherwood Forest Park – 2 Playgrounds and A Huge Bike Path

Amber Rohal — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Burlington’s Sherwood Forest Park. You’re in for a treat when you choose to visit this park because you get two playgrounds for the price of one! Plus Burlington’s longest multi-use trail and a whole lot more!

Sherwood Forest Park is always high on our list of playgrounds to visit. We took our city map and looked for a park on the larger side, that we’d never been to, and Sherwood Park fit the bill. We’d been once before, but a spring downpour had us run from the parking lot to the dome with no chance of park play. My kids were happy for a 2nd kick at this can!

Bring your wheels, this path is awesome!

When Should We Visit Sherwood Park?

We went after school on one of the recent beautiful afternoons we’ve had. Packed some snacks and filled up the water bottles, and we played till dinner time. The park was full of things to climb on, swing from, slide down and explore. My girls loved every bit of it.

The first stop was this unusual see-saw contraption that let the kids bounce up and down on. We’ve not seen one of these things before, and the kids came back to it a number of times. Even I gave it a go!

Your climbers will love it here!

Make New Friends, Climb New Equipment

Sherwood Forest Park is a hive of activity. My girls were thrilled when they got there and there were already 4-5 kids playing – new friends! Plus, I got to chat with a few parents as we took a load off on one of the park’s many benches and seating areas.

The play structure is large and full of ways to keep kids moving and exploring. To the south-ish of the park, there is the Centennial Multi-Use Path which connects Burloak to Downtown, and even farther to the waterfront. See this map as a reference. On all sides of the park are sports fields and an indoor sports complex which was hosting inline skating and skateboarding lessons while we were there. Soccer fields were also filled with athletes of all ages.

The actual playground was a base camp for kids of all ages. New walkers loved that there was a ramp to get them easily to the top of the structure and the dual blue slides, and the frequent climbers were challenged by the numerous systems to scale like Spider-Man.

But Wait! There’s More To Do at Sherwood Park!

We teased you with 2 playgrounds, so we will definitely tell you about the other Sherwood Park in Burlington.

The 2nd playground is accessible from the multi-purpose path and/or Burloak Road. It has a parking lot and is a popular stop for ball games and park lovers.

Lots of slides and s zipline, too!

Play Equipment and Amenities at Sherwood Forest Park

swings

spring-mounted firetruck and motorcycle

a never-before-seen bouncy see-saw

slides as far as the eye can see

zipline

lots to climb and jump off of

park benches and picnic benches

ample parking

creek with a bridge to cross

an extra wide, and extra long paved path

callisthenics equipment so adults can get some movement in, too

seasonal washrooms at both of the playgrounds at Sherwood Forest Park

Yes, those are washrooms! Open seasonally.

Where is Sherwood Forest Park?

You can access the red and blue playground at Sherwood Forest Park by parking at 5270 Fairview Street, Burlington, ON, L7L 6B7.

The smaller playground (which is yellow and orange) is located near the baseball diamonds. From Burloak Road, turn west onto Prince William Drive, then north (right) on Fothergill Blvd.

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

The post Sherwood Forest Park – 2 Playgrounds and A Huge Bike Path appeared first on Active Parents.

Colonel William Woods Park in Oakville

Amber Rohal — Wed, 12 May 2021 15:22:14 +0000

What could be better than a treehouse-themed playground in the middle of the woods? Nothing! That’s why we know you’ll love Colonel William Woods park.

Treehouse playground in oakville

Like you, we’ve been living our best playground life for the last year or more. We love finding a quiet playground that we can have to ourselves, and this one fits that bill!

The large playground structure is very Swiss Family Robinson with its tree trunk climbers, “rope bridges”, and balancing rocks.

SOmething for everyone

This playground has a little something for kids of every age (and kids at heart, too!) The main climbers have a taller-than-normal slide for your adventurous kids, and there is a separate, small slide/climber duo for the little ones.

Pack a picnic when you visit Col. William Woods and chow down at the covered gazebo and picnic tables. And be sure to wear sturdy shoes so you can explore the woods on either side of the park. They’re perfect for balancing, imagination play, and soaking in some good ol’ vitamin D.

Col. William Woods Parkette Amenities

I can only assume this is referred to as a “parkette” because of its one downfall…no parking. We drop a few laps trying to find out where to park and turns out, there is no dedicated public lot. There is a school nearby, about 12 houses away, so while schools are on remote learning, the lot there is empty. But always made sure you park legally, no matter where you visit.

Colonel William Woods park has lots going for it otherwise.

Treehouse-style playground climber
Lots of slides
Small swing set
Unique climbers and balancing equipment
Covered gazebo
Wooded surroundings