Almost Free and Free Ontario Outings for Families

What with holiday bills, inflation, and the realities of stretching finances, sometimes we really need a free – or almost free – fun day out with the kids. The following Ontario outings are all in a 1.5-hour radius of Toronto and provide a variety of fun, photo ops, and overall getting out of the house and off screens.

Free (and Almost Free) Ontario Outings for Families

Graffiti Alley

Street art is so amazing – vibrant, creative, and right there in the open for everyone to enjoy. Take the time to look at the details and take some photos. For a longer excursion, check out street art in a variety of other places in the city, akin to a design scavenger hunt. Artworx offers free self-guided tours via the Driftscape app.

Painted Ladies Grimsby

Gingerbread houses? A beach! Beautiful parks? Yes, please! Get to Grimsby to see these former beach cottages in a variety of beautiful colours. Please remember that these are people’s homes and admire from afar.

Cambridge Sculpture Garden

Have a wander through the park and take in the outdoor sculptures at the Cambridge Sculpture Garden. Monumental, moving, and inspirational – the kids may decide to create their own back home. Don’t miss the Grand Oak, a 130-year-old tree near the river.

Orangeville Tree Sculptures

There are lots of very neat tree sculptures dotting Orangeville’s downtown streets. Some of our favourites are a dragon, coyote, and tribute to beloved pets. Drop by the Orangeville visitor centre for a paper guide or use the Driftscape app to find them all!

Casa Loma Grounds

You don’t have to go inside the castle at Casa Loma to be amazed – in fact, we’d suggest that the stone turret and imposing structure is at its finest when viewed from the outside! Bring a hot chocolate picnic to enjoy on the public area near the grounds (you may have to tackle some stairs, first) and take in the sites of all the flower shops Avenue Road and Davenport after.

Sherlock Holmes Study

The Arthur Conan Doyle Room at The Toronto Reference library is set up as Sherlock Holmes’ study, complete with books you can pull off the shelf to read. There are photos, manuscripts, and so much more as part of the world’s largest collection of the author’s work.

Burlington Downtown Village Square

Visit a turn-of-the-century style square in Burlington, complete with cobblestones and quaint shops. The red phone booth is a great photo backdrop and the historic architecture is as pretty as a picture.

Museum of Dufferin

The Museum of Dufferin is in Mulmur, just 20 minutes north of Orangeville. Check out Crombie Station, a recreation of a historic railway station, as well as the Dufferin House, a log cabin with rooms decorated in the style of the 1880s. After exploring the museum, you can drive by the filming location of the Rosebud Motel from Schitt’s Creek on Hockley Road just before the Hockley Road General Store – a great place for snacks!

Ward Island

Take the ferry to Ward Island for a walk through the residential part of the Toronto Islands. Look back at the Toronto skyline for a spectacular view of the CN Tower and take a walk on the boardwalk. Tiny island homes and a beach – pretty even in the beach – round out the sights.

Savvy Super Bowl Snacks

Hot on the heels of the winter holidays comes the Super Bowl, one of the year’s most exciting sporting events according to all the boys in my house. They see it as a day to lounge in front of the TV with their friends, devouring lots of ‘manly food’ and Super Bowl snacks like chicken wings, pizza, and root beer.

In past years we would usually end up at a party of some sort, and if we don’t, we have people over to our house instead. While I’m happy to indulge in their decadent dinner choices for a special treat, I do have to add a healthy twist to their Super Bowl snacks and I usually do so via my spinach and artichoke dip. Usually loaded with a variety of fat-laden cheeses, this popular dip gets a game-day makeover in my kitchen when made with beans, frozen spinach, artichokes, and lighter cheese options. It’s still flavourful, filling (thanks to all that fiber), and hits the spot, and no one seems to notice that it’s a little healthier than the version they are used to eating.

This dip can also be made days in advance, even weeks if desired, as it holds up in the freezer perfectly and can be baked just before serving. If you aren’t feeding a crowd, divide the dip into two and freeze one portion for another night.

If you’re looking for some lighter fare for your football fanatics here are a few other savvy Super Bowl snacks you’ll feel good about serving for Super Bowl Sunday:

Chicken Taco Bites: Perfect for little fingers to manage on their own.
Cold Pressed Sandwiches: Stuffed with pesto, meats and cheeses.
Stuffed Avocado Shells: Ground beef, beans and avocado. Yum.
Colourful Crudites: Brighten up the dark winter day with veggies and dip.

What’s your Super Bowl menu looking like this year? Are you going to or hosting a party?

White Bean, Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Adapted from Spilling the Beans

Serves 6-8

You’ll Need:

8 oz. cream cheese
2 Tbsp mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 cup white beans (preferably navy)
1 jar (6 oz.) marinated artichoke hearts, drained
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella cheese, divided
1 package (10 oz.) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed of any excess liquid
Few dashes hot sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep and Cook:

Preheat the oven to 350° and spray a shallow baking dish with non-stick spray.
Combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic and beans in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade and pulse until smooth. Add the artichoke hearts, Parmesan and half the mozzarella and whiz until well combined.
Scrape into a bowl and stir in the spinach and hot sauce. Season well with salt and pepper if needed.
Transfer to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil, spring with the remaining cheese and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the edges and bubbling.
Serve warm with fresh pita, veggies, crackers, or tortilla chips.

Good to Know: Frozen kale makes a mighty fine substitute for the spinach.

7 Steps to Prevent the Afternoon Slump

It happens to the best of us–that 3pm crash that feels like you are dragging death from the ankles. Not the best way to keep up with the kids when they’re done school, or show up at that end-of-day meeting. What you really want is a nap and, in this sleep-starved time, that’s what you should have. But, is that realistic? You know what you should do is take a brisk walk in the crisp air and a few quiet moments to yourself, but what you will likely do to battle this afternoon slump is grab one more cup of that crutch that we love so much.

Nope, once you hit the wall, there is no way around it. Now if only you could find a way to prevent it.

It’s actually not that hard, but it does take awareness earlier in the day than you would think. Here are some steps you can take to avoid that afternoon slump and feel good all day long.

7 Ways to Avoid the Afternoon Slump

Step 1:

Have a high-protein/high-fibre breakfast to prevent the am blood sugar spike which will only lead to a crash. High carbohydrate breakfasts can set you up for a fall later. Adrenaline may get you through the morning but it won’t last long.

Step 2:

Manage/measure caffeine intake in the a.m. (no more than two cups). If you can switch to tea or lightly brewed green tea, you can sip, sip, sip your way through the day. The bigger smash of caffeine from a cup of coffee will only let you down at the wrong time.

Step 3:

Have complex carbohydrates at lunch (brown rice, whole wheat). They are slow-burning fuels that help you make serotonin which will keep you feeling relaxed and happy throughout the day. White carbs burn like a flare and we have all watched those peter out; it’s depressing. A high-fat meal will make you sluggish while your body focuses on digesting rather than writing, communicating, thinking, driving, convincing, and whatever other adverb you are expected to perform.

Step 4:

Include lean protein and high-nutrient vegetables (spinach, red peppers, cabbage, and romaine lettuce). These foods will burn slowly and brightly and help you keep your stress in check.

Step 5:

Take a B complex vitamin at lunchtime; it’s my secret weapon. B vitamins are required to unlock the fuel in carbohydrates and they give you a little lift in energy just when you need it. It is easy to remember to take when they are right there in your desk drawer. A big glass of water will also make sure that this isn’t dehydration dragging you down.

Step 6:

Sip on green tea throughout the afternoon. Lightly brewed green tea has slightly less caffeine than other sources and you will be getting more water per sip. If you use loose-leaf tea, you can rebrew it to get less and less caffeine by the end of day so you can get to sleep at night. (Because, really, getting enough sleep is the key to sustained energy all day.)

Step 7:

Have a handful of nuts and fruit around 3pm.; think of it as your own private rocket fuel. That donut you are eyeing will only let you down, as it’s contributing absolutely nothing (other than taste!). On the other hand, the good fats in nuts are fueling your brain and the fruit provides a refreshing burst of antioxidants and phytochemicals that only want to serve you. If you want to add a square of dark chocolate and a moment of silence to recharge, that’s bankable bonus points for you. Chocolate is a superfood 🙂

Fun Family Activities in Vancouver in February

Congratulations – you’ve made it through the first month of the year! Now here we are in Vancouver in February, a month that often brings clear skies and cold temperatures to our beautiful city. There’s no better time to bundle up the kids and explore our local mountains or enjoy one of the many festivals taking place this month … two words: hot chocolate. And don’t forget about all of the Family Day fun to add to your long weekend calendar.

Fun Family Events & Attractions in Vancouver in February

STRIDE Burnaby Arts Festival

When: February 3-12
Where: Various locations
Website: https://weareburnaby.com/stride/

Explore Burnaby’s vibrant arts and culture scene at STRIDE Burnaby Arts Festival hosted by North Burnaby Neighbourhood House. The festival seeks to bring the community together through art displays, performances, artist talks, discussion panels, workshops, and more – perfectly representative of this year’s CONNECTIONS theme. All ages are free to attend.

Love Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

When: February 3-26
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Website: https://www.capbridge.com/events/love-lights/

Spread a little love this month and enjoy the magic of Love Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver. The spectacular illuminated display guides you through the park as you take in the wonder of the West Coast rainforest – it’s sure to delight everyone in the family. On weekends, check out Raptors Ridge with live music and interactive games.

Clémentine a (true) story

When: February 7-18
Where: The NEST, Granville Island
Website: https://www.carouseltheatre.ca/plays/clementine-a-true-story/

Clémentine a (true) story is a heartfelt play that deals with tough family changes through whimsical puppetry and thoughtful – sometimes humourous – storytelling. The show is recommended for children ages 6+. French performances are available on select dates.

Pop! Pop!

When: February 10-19
Where: Presentation House Theatre
Website: https://www.phtheatre.org/pop-pop-february-10-19-2023/

You’re never too young to experience the magic of live theatre. Pop! Pop! at the Presentation House Theatre in North Vancouver features the characters “Seek” and “Hide” as they explore an undersea world of sensory and experiential fun, including puppets, music and more. Pop! Pop! is for children ages 2 to 4 years and their caregivers. Times and ticket prices vary.

Family Days at the Vancouver Aquarium

When: February 10-20
Where: Vancouver Aquarium
Website: https://www.vanaqua.org/explore/special-events/family-days/

Take advantage of Family Days at the Vancouver Aquarium – the purchase of a regular adult ticket gets you a free child’s admission. Members can also bring a friend for free during the same period (February 10-20). Visitors will have a chance to be among the first to check out the all-new interactive exhibit, Nature’s Ninjas: Defenses of the Animal Kingdom, which begins February 10. As if your kids needed an excuse to go wild!

Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival

When: Runs until February 14
Where: Various locations
Website: https://hotchocolatefest.com/

The Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival returns for its 13 th year – bigger, better, and bursting with chocolatey goodness. This year, there are more than 140 hot chocolate designs featured at 95 locations, all in support of three local charity organizations. So, grab a hot chocolate, enjoy a delicious pastry or two, and celebrate the region’s best chocolatiers – life is sweet!

Fan Expo Vancouver

When: February 18 to 20
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre
Website: https://fanexpohq.com/fanexpovancouver/

Vancouver in February means cosplay, anime, celebrities, sci-fi, comic books, collectables: all the Fan Expo favourites are back this year at the Vancouver Convention Centre. From Artist Alley to fan meet-and-greets, the Expo prides itself on being a family-friendly event for all ages. There’s even a super fun science show from Science World! Advanced pricing ends February 3.

LunarFest Vancouver

When: Continues until February 20
Where: Various locations
Website: https://lunarfestvancouver.ca/

Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with LunarFest Vancouver. Events and activities honouring the Lunar New Year continue through February 20 and include free family-friendly workshops every weekend on Granville Island. There are also events to enjoy and exhibits to explore in various other locations throughout The Lantern City.

Richmond Children’s Arts Festival

When: February 20
Where: Richmond Library and Cultural Centre
Website: https://www.childrensartsfestival.ca/

Richmond’s annual Children’s Arts Festival is back for its 15th year! Celebrate Family Day with free music, hands-on activities, book readings, and performances, including a thrilling demonstration by Circus West and a Bollywood dance workshop sure to entertain the whole family. Be sure to check out the website to register for workshops in advance.

Family Day Celebration at Trout Lake Community Centre

When: February 20
Where: Trout Lake Community Centre
Website: https://troutlakecc.com/event/family-day-celebration-2023/

There are multiple Family Day events happening throughout Metro Vancouver, including at Trout Lake Community Centre. The Centre will have program demonstrations, arts, sports, dance, and pottery – in addition to live music. The festivities will also recognize the 10th anniversary of the Community Centre. Free for all ages to attend.

New Westminster Family Day Weekend

When: February 18-20
Where: Various New Westminster locations
Website: https://www.newwestcity.ca/family-day-2023

The City of New Westminster is offering a host of fun activities on Family Day. From a Frozen-themed singalong at Century House to games and crafts at Queensborough Community Centre to Indigenous storytelling and interactive activities at Anvil Centre, there’s sure to be something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Bonus: all activities are free! Registration opens February 3 for non-residents.

Family Day at Fort Langley National Historic Site

When: February 20
Where: Fort Langley National Historic Site
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/langley/activ/calendrier-calendar/

Fort Langley National Historic Site is celebrating Family Day with an event that honours the site’s connection to salmon and killer whales. In addition to river and ocean-themed activities, the event features guests from Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, the Parks Canada Southern Resident Killer Whale team, Salmon River Enhancement Society, Derby
Reach Brae Island Parks Association, and more. Admission is free for 17 years and under.

Winter Farmers’ Markets

When: Varied dates and times
Where: Throughout the region
Website: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/

Use the search feature on the BC Farmers Market website to search for the local winter markets popping up in your neck of the woods – or perhaps further afield if you want to make a day of it. From fresh veggies to locally crafted artisan goods, BC farm markets are known for their diverse offerings – even in winter time. What a great way to enjoy Vancouver in February.

Robson Square Ice Skating

When: Through February
Where: Robson Square
Website: https://www.robsonsquare.com/

Skating at Robson Square in the heart of downtown Vancouver is a winter tradition, and is the perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends. Plus, there’s an indoor café and an outdoor patio! Skate rentals are $5 and include a free helmet rental, which is mandatory for everyone 12 years and under.

The Shipyards Skate Plaza

When: Through February
Where: The Shipyards
Website: https://www.cnv.org/parks-recreation-and-culture/city-waterfront/the-shipyards/shipyard-commons/skate-plaza

This is the largest outdoor skating rink in the Lower Mainland. Located on North Vancouver’s waterfront, the Shipyards Skate Plaza has scenery that can’t be beat: downtown Vancouver and the snow-capped North Shore mountains. There’s daily skating, with skate rentals ($5 for kids) and free helmets. Those with their own skates can skate for free. Plaza closes daily for ice cleaning at 3pm and 5:30pm for about 30 minutes. Plenty of nearby cafes and shops to take a break, before or after skating.

Winter Fun at Grouse

When: Through winter
Where: Grouse Mountain
Website: https://www.grousemountain.com/winter-activities

Think the only thing to do on the local ski hills is … skiing? How about snowshoeing, ice skating, winter light walks through the forest, and much more. Check out Grouse Mountain and enjoy a day of wintery fun, with or without skis or snowboards. The day gets started with a lift to the top on the popular Skyride gondola (and if you enjoy the view, come back again in summer for hiking and more.) Check current conditions and hours before going, and book ahead.

Lights to the Lodge at Cypress

When: Through winter
Where: Cypress Mountain
Website: https://cypressmountain.com/lights-to-the-lodge

Trade in the skis for snowshoes and head to Cypress Mountain for Lights to the Lodge! The family-friendly one-kilometre snowshoe trek to the historic Hollyburn Lodge follows a self-guided trail through an Old Growth Forest. The trail is lit with LED lights strung through the cedar, fir, and hemlock trees. Visit the lodge for some refreshments, then snowshoe back to the base area. It’s a great outdoor activity to celebrate winter.

Tubing and Tobogganing at Mount Seymour

When: Through winter
Where: Mount Seymour
Website: https://mtseymour.ca/snow-tubing

Mount Seymour is totally tubular – that is, it has an amazing Snow Tube Park. Slide down the hill in one of their specially designed tubes and then enjoy a tube tow back to the top. There’s also a Toboggan Park which is open to all ages and has no height restrictions (you must be 48” or taller to use the Snow Tube Park). Mount Seymour will make you feel like you’re a world away while only a short drive from home.

Fun Family Activities in Calgary in February

It’s Calgary in February, so winter’s hitting in full force. But that won’t stop our city from having a good time! There are tons of activities and events taking place both inside and outdoors this February in YYC, so get ready to fill up your calendar!

Fun Family Events & Activities in Calgary in February

Winter Solstice: A Rocky Mountain Fairy Tale | samanthawhelankotkas.com
Tuesday February 7 – Saturday February 9

Samantha Whelan Kotkas is a renowned performer and teaching artist. Her love of the outdoors was inspiration for The Rocky Mountain Fairy Tales, which tells the orchestral story of a girl cross-country skiing into “the very majestic, magnificent and mysterious Mt. Assiniboine”. This performance features the symphony orchestra and shares a message about the commitment and dedication it takes to become an orchestral musician – or to do anything in life well. The story is told by a solo narrator who sings, dances and interacts with the musicians and the audience. The show runs for 45 minutes.

The Calgary Boat and Outdoors Show | calgaryboatandoutdoorshow.ca
Friday February 10 – Sunday February 12

It may not feel like it right now, but spring and summer are just around the corner. What better way to get yourself in the spirit of melting snow and warmer days ahead than a visit to Southern Alberta’s biggest Boat and Outdoors Show? The 3-day event is filled with boats, watercraft, marine accessories, fishing, camping, hunting, and outdoor related products and services. Tickets to the show are $15 for adults 18-64, $11 for seniors 65+ and kids 13-18, and free for kids 12 and under. Family passes (2 adults and 2 students) can be purchased for $40.

Chinook Blast | chinookblast.ca
Until Sunday February 12

Who says we need to lock ourselves inside all winter while we wait for things to warm up? Chinook Blast is Calgary’s winter festival that brings together partners from the arts, nonprofit, neighbourhood, tourism, and sports communities to create an inclusive event that showcases the best of our city. This multi-day celebration includes tons of must-see events including light and art installations and family skating located at the Chinook Blast Hub every day.

High Performance Rodeo | hprodeo.ca
Until Sunday February 5

High Performance Rodeo is a 37-year performing arts festival in Calgary in January that runs through to February. This year’s festival will present artists from here at home and from around the world – as far as Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and further from the United Kingdom, Spain, and the USA. Performances range anywhere from massive orchestras riffing on Radiohead to immersive performances for audiences of five and everything in between! Some shows require tickets and others are free. See the High Performance Rodeo and Chinook Blast websites for show locations and ticket information.

Block Heater | calgaryfolkfest.com
Thursday February 9 – Sunday February 12

Calgary Folk Music Festival’s annual winter concert is back for its 8th year and brings with it 32 artists and 13 separate events, taking place throughout Inglewood and downtown. Venues for this year’s performances include The Palace Theatre, The Ironwood, Jack Singer Concert Hall, Central United Church, The Horizon Heating Stage at Festival Hall, and the free stage at Olympic Plaza. Artists from Calgary and around the world are here to help you get your groove on. Check the website for lineups, locations, and ticket prices.

Mini Pop Kids Live| jubileeauditorium.com
Sunday February 12

If you’re looking for the perfect first concert experience for your little, this is it! The Mini Pop Kids are back with their brand-new Concert Tour featuring the year’s biggest hits including songs from Justin Bieber, Dua Lipa, BTS, and Harry Styles, as well as classics that even parents in the family can sing along to. Tickets start at $34.80.

Ethnik Festival Of Arts And Culture | ethnikfestivals.com
Friday February 24 – Saturday February 25

Ethnik Festivals Association is an organization committed to bringing events for learning, training, research, development, and celebration of individuals and community achievements. They aim to unite different cultures and ethnicities through events that bring people together. This year’s Ethnik Festival kicks off on February 24 with the “Calgary Food War” at the Village Commons in the East Village. Four notable Calgarians will go head to head in a cooking competition presided over by Canada’s Top Celebrity Chef, Roger Mooking. The main festival takes place on February 25th at TELUS Convention Centre from 12 to 6 pm and features location and international acts bringing various forms of artistic and cultural presentations. General admission is $25.42 and gives access to the 2 days of festivities. Children ages 12 and under are free.

Toronto Kids Fashion Week Calgary Auditions | tkfw.ca
Sunday February 26

Have your kids ever dreamed of walking the runway? Toronto Kids Fashion Week is bringing its high-energy show back to Calgary for another year, and your kids can get in on the fun! Visit the website to register your budding models, and prepare them to strut their stuff at the auditions on February 26th. The big show takes place in April, so if you’d prefer to join as an audience member, keep your eyes peeled for more information on dates!

What events and activities are you excited to check out in Calgary in February? Are there any great ones we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Fun Family Activities to do in Ottawa in February

It’s the shortest month, but you still need plenty of ways to fill your days with activities and family fun in and around Ottawa in February. Bundle up, embrace the winter weather and experience all that Ottawa has to offer! Along with these fun events you may wish to head out and visit some local restaurants as a family.

Fun Family Events & Activities in Ottawa in February

RCMP Musical Ride Stables Open House

Visit the RCMP Stables on Saturday February 4 and get up close with the beautiful RCMP Musical Ride horses. It’s the RCMP’s 150th year in service so get ready for a year of celebration. Kicking off the year is their annual Open House in collaboration with the Ottawa Food Bank. Admission is free to this event but please consider bringing non-perishable goods to donate to the Ottawa Food Bank and /or cash donations. Meet some mounties and meet some of the amazing riders and horses that take part in this magical ride.

National Ice Carving Championship

Head down to Sparks Street Friday February 3 – Sunday February 5th to see ice carvers artistic adventures as they create with only 20 hours to sculpt and 15 blocks of ice you will be inspired by their “Creatures of the Sea” theme. Sparks Street, now known as SoPa (South of Parliament) has plenty to explore with great food, coffee and lots of parking options close by.

Drag Story Time with Capital Pride

Enjoy Drag Story Time with Capital Pride and Monkey Rock at the NAC on Saturday February 8th. This bilingual free event is approximately 2 hours in length and is for all ages celebrating inclusivity. The National Arts Centre runs weekly events that are free for families and enables you to explore the arts and all that this wonderful centre has to offer.

Black History Month

February is Black History Month and Black History Ottawa will be live-streaming on Sunday February 12th “Virtual Children Stories From The Black Diaspora” This event will be available for free on Facebook and YouTube. Please consider making a donation which can be done via their website to support this event.

From Pepinot to Paw Patrol

Visit the Museum of History & Civilization to explore 70 years of Canadian children’s television! With something familiar for all ages to explore this exhibition will take you through childhood favourites with original clips, puppets, and costumes. This special exhibit is on now for a true “blast from the past” and is free with your membership and included in the price of a regular admission ticket.

Paddington Bear Gets in a Jam

See Paddington Bear at the Meridian Theatre this Friday February 10th and experience a fun theatrical experience for the whole family. This 60 minute experience is a great introduction to little ones to the world of theatre and will also capture the interest of older children with the nostalgia of Paddington Bear.

Garden For Little Souls

Family Day Weekend visit the National Arts Centre (NAC) Saturday February 18 – Sunday February 19th for some fun toddler play and experiences. They will visit different islands that each have tactile stations for children to explore. This event is completely free and is encouraged for children ages 2-7. It runs Saturday from 11-5:30p.m. and Sunday from 10-5p.m.

Mini Pop Kids Live!

Justin Bieber, Olivia Rodrigo, Lizzo, and MORE will be the beats you will experience in this Mini Pop Kids Live! Performance at Meridian Theatre on Saturday February 25th. Top 40 hits, sprinkled with some fun throwbacks, this concert is for kids, by kids. Incorporating lots of movement and singing this event will be sure to make for a fun afternoon for the pre-teen crowd. Tickets are on sale through Meridian Theatre and range from $35-$70 (for VIP) each.

Disney On Ice

Head to the Canadian Tire Centre for Disney on Ice “Find Your Hero” March 9-12 with tickets now on sale! Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy for an adventure on ice alongside your favourites- Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Little Mermaid, Rapunzel and Moana! This on ice show will mesmerize your entire family as you see your favourite Disney characters skating to your favourite Disney songs!

Fun Family Activities in Toronto in February

February might be the shortest month of the year but it’s not light on fun things to do with your family. And given that this month has an extra-long weekend for most students, thanks to a PD day on Friday February 17, and then Family Day on Monday February 20, we know you need ideas for fun things to do in Toronto in February!

Below we round up a dozen activities and attractions that we think your family and you will enjoy. The vast majority of these suggestions take place in Toronto but this time around we’ve also included a few suburban events that we think are worthy of your time and money.

Fun for Families in Toronto in February

Tobogganing
Various Toronto parks

January was a little light on snow; does that mean we’re about to get a big dump in February? If we do receive mountains of snow, we’ll finally have the makings for terrific tobogganing conditions. Once there’s an appropriate amount of snow on the ground, the City of Toronto operates over a dozen sites that are deemed safe for speeding down on a sled. See which ones are near you or see which hills we recommend in our roundup of the city’s top hills. But before you head out, be sure to also check out these safety tips. Access to City-run tobogganing hills is free.

Fireside Munsch

Wychwood Theatre, 176-76 Wychwood Ave., Toronto
Saturday February 4 & Sunday, February 5

This always popular live show is back for another short run that is likely to sellout. Featuring M. John Kennedy’s “high-energy performance,” this iteration brings to life four beloved Robert Munsch books: Andrew’s Loose Tooth, Alligator Baby, Put Me in a Book! and Swamp Water. While these hour-long performances can be enjoyed by all ages, Fireside Munsch is best for children who are ages four and up. Seating is general admission and starts at around $23 per ticket.

Sweet City Fest

Stackt Marketplace, 28 Bathurst St., Toronto
February 1-26

How does a festival “for the love of all things sweet” sound? Maybe…delicious? Details for this new event haven’t been fully released yet but expect to find bake sales, art exhibits, live music, and more including, “family funday Sunday” and “parent socials.” Access into the marketplace is free but special events may have a charge.

Disney on Ice Presents Find Your Heroes

Scotiabank Arena, 40 Bay St., Toronto
Friday February 3 – Sunday February 5

Disney On Ice brings its latest show to the Scotiabank Arena. Expect to see your favourite characters, including Moana, Mickey and Minnie and — of course — Elsa, jump, spin, and twirl their way through new routines. This show has an intermission but it’s still a bit on the long side so it’s best for kids ages four and up. Seven performances are scheduled over the course of Disney on Ice’s three-day visit to Toronto with showtimes at 7pm, 11am, and 3pm. Tickets start at $25 before fees.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical

Meadowvale Theatre, 6315 Montevideo Rd., Mississauga
Friday February 3 – Sunday February 12

Downtown Toronto’s not the only place where you can take your kids to an afternoon (or evening) of live theatre. This month one of Roald Dahl’s best loved books, Matilda, gets the musical treatment at Mississauga’s Meadowvale Theatre. This story’s handful of tense moments and its length, with intermission the whole show runs two hours, adds up to an experience that is best for kids ages seven and up. Eight shows are currently scheduled, and performances take place at 2pm or 8pm. Grab a seat for as little as $32.

The Hockey Sweater — Young People’s Concert

Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St., Toronto
Sunday February 5

The classic Canadian children’s book gets the musical treatment at this Toronto Symphony Orchestra concert designed for kids ages five to 12. Book author Roch Carrier reads his tale out loud while the TSO’s musical talents add a whole new dimension to this likely familiar story. Attendees are encouraged to wear their hockey jersey to the show and to arrive an hour early to check the various pre-show activities in the lobby, including the opportunity to play real instruments or buy a copy of The Hockey Sweater. Two performances are scheduled, one at 1:30pm and one at 4pm, and tickets start at $29.

Paddington Gets into a Jam

The Rose Brampton, 1 Theatre Ln., Brampton, ON
Tuesday February 7

Need a reason to visit Brampton? How about to treat the kids to an evening of “original slapstick comedy” featuring one of the world’s favourite bears? This “live” production (featuring a puppet Paddington) starts at the kid-friendly time of 6:30pm and tickets start available at the wallet-friendly price of $24.

Canadian International Auto Show

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W, Toronto,
Friday February 17 – Sunday February 26

Do your kids love cars, trucks, and other vehicles? Then a trip to the annual Auto Show might be an ideal outing for your family. See exotic cars, electric cars, classic cars, even a full-size car made entirely out of LEGO! Admission is free for kids ages six and under while tickets start at $6.75 if you buy them online before Friday, February 17. A $45 family pack (good for two kids and two adults) is also available, as are certain date/time specific special offers.

BloorYorkville IceFest

Bloor-Yorkville Area
Saturday February 18 & Sunday February 19

Over 40 “ice creations,” made from over 60,000 pounds of ice, are transforming Yorkville into a scene out of Frozen during this frosty, but picturesque, festival. After your family takes a self-guided tour along the ice sculpture trail, head to The Village of Yorkville Park where there are live ice carving demonstrations, an ice wall with projections, and even an ice lounge, where you can treat yourself to a delicious drink (hot or cold). IceFest is free to explore.

Winter Stations

Woodbine Beach, Toronto & 1381 Lakeshore Rd. E, Mississauga
February 18 – April 3

Yes, February isn’t exactly beach weather, but the annual Winter Stations outdoors art exhibit gives us a good reason to bundle and head down to the lake. This year’s displays are full of whimsy and creativity, and some are even interactive. They also make for memorable photo backgrounds, especially our favourite, Conrad the racoon. Access to the exhibits is free and note that while the Mississauga show starts on Saturday February 18, the Woodbine Beach show doesn’t start until Monday February 20 (Family Day).

Westfall’s World: Family Day Magic Show

Wychwood Theatre, 176-76 Wychwood Ave., Toronto
Monday February 20

Celebrate Family Day with acclaimed family-friendly magician Chris Westfall. Packed with eye-popping magic tricks and illusions, as well as lots of humour, this show will have your whole family oohing, ahhing and laughing. There’s also lots of audience participation, so be forewarned about that. Four shows are scheduled for this Family Day show at 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2.30pm, and 4:30pm and each performance runs for around 50 minutes. Tickets start at $25.

The Darkest Dark

Ada Slaight Stage, 165 Front St. E., Toronto
February 20 – April 2

On Family Day, Astronaut Chris Hadfield’s bestselling children’s book, The Darkest Dark, gets its world debut as a stage show. Described as a “ground-breaking, magic-filled adaptation,” this unique production promises to wow both adults and kids with its story based around a certain space-loving, nine-year-old boy. With its run time of 80 minutes, this show is best suited for kids ages six to 12. Show times vary, with both afternoon and evening performances available, and tickets are available for as low as $10 a seat.

How to Talk to Your Child’s Teacher

February means report cards are sent home. Ideally, you’ve already had a few kind words with your child’s teacher prior to that dreaded call home or the disappointing report card. If so, then you have had the pleasure of meeting without the stress and emotion of a ‘problem to solve.’ Whether you have established a relationship with the teacher or not, here are five things to keep in mind to make the most of any meeting with your child’s teacher.

5 Tips for Tough Talks with Your Child’s Teacher

There are no sides.

Most teachers teach because they love the profession and they love kids. They are not out to attack parents. The teacher is most likely on your side and wants to find a solution to the problem, just like you. Ask for the teacher’s expertise and suggestions for strategies that have worked with other students in the past.
Come prepared.

Write down your questions and concerns prior to the meeting. Just by walking into a classroom, one can suddenly feel like a 5-year-old who has been called to the principal’s office. Emotions may run high so having a list of questions can keep everyone on track.
Begin with a feeling.

Lead the conversation with a feeling rather than an accusation. If you are not sure how to start the conversation begin with one of the following:
- We are feeling really confused…
- We’re hoping you can help us to understand…
- This is uncomfortable but we really don’t like what is being said about our child…
Write it down.

Write down the agreed-upon solution along with dates/tasks. Be sure that you know who is doing what and when you will be in touch. Decide who will email/call whom and stick to the assignment. This way, you’ll be supporting your child by holding everyone (including the child) accountable.
Follow the correct protocol.

Feeling frustrated by your child’s teacher? Meet with the teacher first before going to administration. Give the teacher an opportunity to hear about and solve the problem. If it still isn’t working, then approach the next level in the hierarchy.

To Every Mom Who Has Ever Wondered “Now What?”

Being a mom means being able to shift on the fly. And I don’t just mean leaving work to pick up a sick kid or changing your dinner plans because someone no longer eats Kraft dinner. Being a mom means constantly changing, evolving, and juggling our big and small-picture plans, goals, and routines to suit everyone else.

Whether we do this grudgingly or with enthusiasm, we do it because it comes with the momming territory. Whether life involves a big change, like a move, or a small change, like adding a weekly tutoring session to the family calendar, being a mom means it’s usually our job to make it all happen.

And that sh*t ain’t easy, especially when there’s a little voice in your head (or devil on your shoulder) asking Really … again?

This is not a here’s another way motherhood is hard post. This is about the fact that I see you and you’re a rock star because, let’s face it, the former we know and the latter we need to be reminded of.

So let me say it again: I see you mama. I see how you changed your hours at work to accommodate 4pm ball practice, and I see how you looked around after having your first, second, or third baby and thought now what?

It’s normal to wonder how you (you as woman, not you as mom) fit into everything you’re doing, coordinating, and creating for everyone else. You’re more than the lunch maker, the chauffeur, the homework coach, and the kisser of ouchies. You have your own plans and goals and it’s perfectly fine to wonder if you’ll be back in control of your own time and your own plans anytime soon.

When my husband accepted a job in Las Vegas, my first thought was, “have a good time, the kids and I will miss you!” My life was in Canada, and it included friends, family, and a career I’d worked hard to reinvent after two kids. But it didn’t take long for this way of thinking to fall apart. We said goodbye to everything we knew and moved south. I don’t regret or begrudge it at all because I see my kids growing, changing, and having experiences they wouldn’t get if they stayed in their same environment.

But while he’s at work and the kids are at school I’m looking around like okay, now what? Everyone is happy and settling and moving on with their lives, getting back into routine, and I’m puttering around our rental house feeling like I’ve just landed on another planet. I didn’t know this previously but, believe it or not, you CAN watch too much Netflix and eat too much raw cookie dough.

Again, this is not a pity party. I regret nothing and I know we made the right decision for our family. But the voice still exists, and she gets especially loud when I’m tired or frustrated. You know the voice because you’ve tried to silence her too. She’s the one that asks what about me? Sometimes she just won’t shut up and to be honest, I don’t even want her to. I want her to keep reminding me there’s more to me than getting kids to school on time and making sure they eat a vegetable once in a while. I want her to hunker down beside me in the trenches and kick me in the ass when I start feeling sorry for myself.

Because I know my time will come again. Our time will come again. In the meantime, being a mom means it’s our job is to find a balance between enjoying and merely surviving these years when our lives are not our own. The inescapable paradox of motherhood is that we spend much of our kids’ lives feeling too tired and busy to enjoy all the little moments, then feeling desperately sad when the little moments stage is over.

Yes, this is what we signed up for when we became parents. We knew that having children meant it was now about someone else. But I’m here to tell you that it’s still okay to wonder if and when that will change. It’s okay to miss the you that you were before you started reporting to a tiny boss who talks a lot of smack for someone who can’t buy their own socks. It’s even okay to get pissy about it from time to time because getting pissy means that the voice inside you is still alive.

Sometimes it helps me to think about it this way: all the things we do as mothers translates into a pretty awesome resumé. Being able to shift on the fly, reprioritize, and revamp are valuable skills that demonstrate selflessness, resilience, and creativity. ‘Change management’ might feel thankless at times and, unfortunately, society doesn’t really have our backs on this but trust me: by rolling with life’s U-turns, whether that’s having a baby, moving cities, you or your partner switching jobs, or taking time off to care for a sick relative, you’re teaching your kids to be flexible and adaptable. You’re leading the team that matters most. And if you feel like a human glue stick trying to keep it all together then you’re probably doing it right.

And I see you.

Best Watches for Kids Learning to Tell Time

Watches for kids are a great way to not only teach your child how to tell time, but also how to manage it as well. No matter how old your child is, there’s a watch out there that’s perfect for them. Kids watches today are more than just smaller-sized versions of their parent’s classic timepieces. Today’s watches for kids have features that help youngsters learn how to tell time, as well as being built from materials designed for the wear and tear of childhood. Some of the models on our list are high-tech digital watches, while others offer the more traditional styling of a face with wind-up hands.

No matter what kind of watch you’re looking for (or your budget) from this list of watches for kids there’s one to suit your kiddo. Here are a few of the best options.

Best Watches for Kids

Flik Flak Watches

Flik Flak watches are designed to help kids learn how to tell time, and offer some really child-friendly designs. They also offer customization for a unique and one-of-a-kind timepiece. Chosen text and graphic elements are individually embroidered onto the strap of the watch in a colour to stylishly complement the overall design. The company also partnered with education specialists to create a fun (free!) app that helps little ones learn to tell time.

Priced from $50 and up

Timex Watches

Timex offers a line of trendy kid’s watches ranging in sizes and styles that are sure to please youngsters of all ages. Choose from both analog and digital options, with features such as alarms, chronograph, countdown timer, and the brand’s proprietary Indiglo backlight feature. Watches feature an easy-to-read time-teaching dial to help them get the hang of telling time. Best of all, every Timex Kids watch is covered by the company’s worry-free replacement plan – if their new watch gets lost or broken, they’ll replace it!

Priced from $39.99

Spacetalk Adventurer

Quite possibly one of the most advanced smartwatches for kids, the Spacetalk Adventurer includes many of the features of adult smartwatches, such as voice calling, secure text and picture messaging, location and parental controls, plus so much more. It is compatible with North American wireless carriers (except Sprint) and requires a regular cell phone plan with talk, text, and data.

Priced from $279

Fitbit Ace 3

The Fitbit Ace 3 is primarily an activity tracker, but still has the digital time available on the front display. Unlike trackers for adults, this model does not keep track of calories burned, heart rate, or anything related to weight loss. Rather, it keeps kids motivated to stay active throughout the day by encouraging them to periodically move and stretch. There are also daily activity challenges, bedtime reminders and sleep tracking, and a variety of animated watch faces. Priced from $99.99.

Lorus Watches

Lorus kid watches feature a rugged yet stylish design, and come in both analog and digital options for time tellers of all ages. Kids can easily view the time, full calendar display, and chronograph on an easy-to-read LCD display with a flick of the wrist. They are water-resistant to 100m, making them ideal for active water pursuits such as surfing, swimming, and more. Buckle-closure straps provide an adjustable fit as kids grow.

Priced from $35.95

Blok Watches

Blok Watches are Swiss-made, virtually indestructible, and sustainable watches for kids. The Blok 33 features a unique rotating bezel broken into 4 “bloks” so kids can set 5-, 10-, 20- and 30-minute intervals and learn time in a fun and colourful way. Created by parents, this perfect screen-free entertainment item for kiddos will last for years to come. It features a sapphire crystal lens, boasts a 10-year battery life, ships in recycled packaging, and comes with a 2-year warranty.

Priced from USD $179