The holidays are over, and the kids back to school. Parents all over the city are anxious to get back into a routine. Even families with non-school aged children are likely still trying to get babies to nap again after all of the visiting relatives and celebrations draw to a close.
January is still a month where families can have fun together, and kids can try something new. We’ve gathered a few unique and special events happening in Ottawa all month long for you and your children to enjoy. Don’t let the winter blahs set in. Mark off these dates in your calendar and make new memories!
Go skating
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Although our recent balmy temperatures are delaying some of the outdoor skating locations (like the Rideau Canal), there are still opportunities to find an outdoor skating site in Ottawa like the Sens Rink of Dreams or Lansdowne skating rink which are both refrigerated. Visit our list of outdoor skating rinks to find one near you!
Take your baby to a sign language class
Beginning on January 14th, and Tuesdays thereafter, join Mellow Baby at BuyBuyBaby at the Trainyards to participate in a weekly Baby Sign language class. There is a fee for registering (as these classes happen weekly) but it’s a great way to get out of the house on a cold day and learn something new! Visit their Facebook page for more information.
Sign your child up for Medical School
Yes, you read that right, and it’s sort of true! Little Medical School will be at the Indigo Pinecrest location and are hosting a special workshop for children aged 4-10 on Sunday, January 12th at 12:45 pm. During this workshop children will learn how to care for stuffed babies by burping them, feeding them and bathing them. The registration fee is $50 but it includes the stuffed baby to take home! Here’s where to find more information and to register.
Let your little scientist experiment!
On January 23rd, the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre welcomes mini scientists and their families to learn about chemistry, science, physics and the scientific method with a hands-on workshop. We also love that this event is free, although registration is required.
Date night while the kids paint
If you need a date night, register the kids for Art Haven’s Kids Night Out event on January 31 between 6 pm and 8:30 pm. The kids will paint on canvas to create their own masterpiece. Supplies for their art, plus their pizza dinner is provided.
Have dinner with royalty
Local Boston Pizza locations often host family-friendly events (keep an eye on their Facebook pages to find upcoming dates) like the Royal Dinner Party in Barrhaven on Thursday, January 16th. There are two seatings and your family will enjoy a visit with favourite royal characters. There is a $1.50 charge per person for the event. Call to make your reservation today!
Register the Kids for an Apple Workshop
Apple has frequently offered interesting, interactive workshops about video making, coding and more for kids. This month, the Rideau location has an ART Lab on January 12 for preteens and teens aged 12 and up to learn about augmented reality. However, at both the Rideau and Bayshore location, there are other upcoming workshops too. Be sure to check out the Apple website for all of the dates and details!
Winterlude begins January 31
Finally, just a brief reminder that Winterlude begins on January 31! This popular, family-friendly staple of Ottawa winters is sure to be another fun event, but we’ll have more information to share with you soon! In the meantime, save the date and visit the Winterlude website for location and event details.
Tagged under: ottawa,Family things to do in Ottawa,family activities in Ottawa
Category: events,attractions
