toddlers Archives – Active Parents https://activeparents.ca/tag/toddlers/ Home of The Best Things to Do with Kids in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:04:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.4 Brant Hills Park Has A New Splash Pad! https://activeparents.ca/brant-hills-park-has-a-new-splash-pad/ Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:55:54 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=43752 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 …

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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!

New 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.

Brant Hills Park splash pad

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 https://activeparents.ca/william-connell-park/ Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:53:12 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=33542 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 … Read more

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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.

william connell park

William Connell Park in 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.

William Connell Park in Hamilton
William Connell Park in Hamilton

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 natural playground 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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Shell Park in Oakville – Skate Park, Playground, Gardens and a Big Dog Park https://activeparents.ca/shell-park-oakville/ https://activeparents.ca/shell-park-oakville/#comments Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:40:59 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=36561 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 … Read more

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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.

Shell Park Playground Oakville

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 Park Playground Oakville
Shell Park Playground Oakville
Shell Park Playground Oakville

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.

Shell Skateboard Park Oakville
Shell Skate Park Oakville

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.

Shell Park Gardens Oakville
Shell Park Gardens Oakville

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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Central Park in Burlington Has A Super Fun Playground https://activeparents.ca/central-park/ https://activeparents.ca/central-park/#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2024 18:26:30 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=33396 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 … Read more

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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.

Read More: Click here for 40+ playground reviews with photos!

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?

Central Park playground
Central Park playground
Central Park playground

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

Central Park 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 playground

Central Park playground

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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13+ Things to Do At Bronte Creek Provincial Park https://activeparents.ca/bronte-creek-provincial-park/ https://activeparents.ca/bronte-creek-provincial-park/#comments Wed, 28 Feb 2024 17:47:46 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=31690 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.

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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.

meeting farm animals at Bronte Creek Provincial Park

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.

The gnome road at bronte creek

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 2023, after being closed for the past few seasons.

See The Salmon Run

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!

Bronte Creek Park rabbits and animals

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.

playgrounds at bronte creek park

Bronte Creek Provincial Park Playground Features

  • climbers
  • swings
  • pull-up bars
  • slides
  • tick tack 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.

bronte creek park trails

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.

Read Our Latest Articles

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

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Parent and Tot Programs in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville https://activeparents.ca/parent-and-tot-programs-in-burlington-hamilton-and-oakville/ Tue, 30 Jan 2024 18:23:04 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=35762 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.

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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.

Burlington Trampoline and Tumbling Summer Camp
Experience the thrill of the Ultimate Summer Adventure at Burlington Trampoline & Tumbling Camp! Campers aged 4-12 will conquer NinjaZone challenges, perfect Gymnastics skills, and bounce high on Trampolines. Engaging Games and Team Building activities await, ensuring non-stop fun! Fuel up for excitement with two snack breaks and a lunch break (campers bring their own snacks and lunch). Summer Camp 2024 operates from 9:00am to 4:00pm, with drop-off commencing at 8:45am and pick-up by 4:00pm. Enrollments are available for full weeks only, priced at $350.00 per child per week. Don't miss your chance to secure a spot for an unforgettable summer experience! Join us for an action-packed adventure filled with laughter, learning, and lifelong memories. Register now to embark on a journey of fun and friendship at Burlington Trampoline & Tumbling Camp!
Burlington
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
1160 Blair Road, Burlington, L7M1A8
Museums of Burlington Toddler Days
Our toddler program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum from 10:30am to 12:00pm on Wednesday mornings from February 1 to May 24. 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.  
Burlington
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. 
Burlington
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.
Oakville
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.
Burlington
Blossom Musik
Teaches the Kindermusik program to parents and kids under 5 in Hamilton and Burlington.
Hamilton
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
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
St. Catharines
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.
Burlington
Go Bananas!
Our facility is designed with kids in mind - with colourful and creative things to climb everyone from 25-300lbs is welcome! 
50 Borden Ave S, Unit 3, Kitchener, N2G 3R5
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. 
Burlington
Goldfish Swim School - Oakville
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 - Oakville has all the info you'll need to get started.
Oakville
Little Kickers Hamilton Grimsby logo
Little Kickers Grimsby
Little Kickers is a non-competitive program that uses imagination and play-to-learn basic soccer skills. Kids might be flying through space one week and running through the jungle the next week. We offer 4 different age groups to tailor each class specifically for that age range. 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 intr […]
Grimsby
Little Kickers Hamilton Grimsby logo
Little Kickers Hamilton
Little Kickers is a non-competitive program that uses imagination and play-to-learn basic soccer skills. Kids might be flying through space one week and running through the jungle the next week. We offer 4 different age groups to tailor each class specifically for that age range. 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 intr […]
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.
Multiple Locations
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!
Oakville
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!)
Multiple Locations
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.
Hamilton
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.
Hamilton
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!
Burlington
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
Oakville Futsal Club
Oakville Futsal Club is an indoor facility designed to provide access to safe programs, birthday parties and parent and tot programs. Something for the whole family!
Oakville
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.
Oakville
Passion To Fitness
Offers kids gymnastics, dance, cheer and ninja warrior classes to kids from pre-school age through adult. 
Hamilton
Performance School of Music and Dance
Offers Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Preschool Dance and Parent & Tot classes. 
Burlington
Sport Kidz Milton
Ages 18 months to 5 years old
Milton
Sportball Halton
Sportball provides introductory sport programs for children 16mos - 9yrs old. Programs include multi-sport, soccer, t-ball and more.
Burlington
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.
Burlington
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.
Ancaster
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.
Hamilton
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.
Oakville
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.
Waterdown
The City of Burlington
The City of Burlington offers recreational swim lessons for children of all ages and abilities.
Burlington
The City of Hamilton
Hamilton offers learn-to-swim programs for all ages, starting with parent and tot programs, at various city recreation centres.
Hamilton
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.
Waterdown
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.
Ancaster
The Common Moms Burlington
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.
Burlington
The Common Moms Guelph
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.
Guelph
The Common Moms Milton
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.
Milton
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.
Burlington
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.
Waterdown
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.
Ancaster
We Swim Hamilton
Offers year-round private swimming lessons, Parent & Tot classes, group swimming lessons, swim coaching and group Aquafit classes in Hamilton.
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.
Hamilton
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.
Burlington
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.
207 Parkside Drive, Waterdown, Waterdown
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.
79 James St South, Hamilton
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.
356 Rymal Rd East, Hamilton
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.
500 Drury Lane, Burlington
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+
Hamilton

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Hidden Valley Park is a Must-Visit Destination https://activeparents.ca/hidden-valley-park/ https://activeparents.ca/hidden-valley-park/#comments Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:03:05 +0000 http://burlingtonparents.com/?p=1197 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.

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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.

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 https://activeparents.ca/park-profile-confederation-beach-park-in-hamilton/ Wed, 17 May 2023 23:50:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=32509 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 … Read more

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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.

Confederation Beach Park pirate ship Hamilton Ontario

Confederation Beach Park pirate ship Hamilton Ontario

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!

waterfront beachside lake ontario at confederation beach park in hamilton

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.

waterfront at Hamilton's Confederation Park

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 https://activeparents.ca/milton-community-sports-park/ Tue, 02 May 2023 14:33:41 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=37372 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 … Read more

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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!

skate park milton sports complex

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.

park in milton zipline

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! https://activeparents.ca/nelson-park/ Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=32756 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 … Read more

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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.

Nelson Pool and Splash Pad

Nelson Pool and Splash Pad

Nelson Pool and Splash Pad

Nelson Pool and Splash Pad

Nelson Pool and Splash Pad

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 and Playground

Nelson Park and Playground

Nelson Park and Playground

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.

Nelson Skate Park and Playground

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 Skate Park and Dirt Jumps

Nelson Skate Park and Dirt Jumps

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)

Read Our Latest Articles

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

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