5 Tips to Survive After-School Activity Chaos

Great news: your child has been accepted into a renowned dance programme/made the rep hockey team. They are ecstatic and you couldn’t be prouder. And now the not-so-great news: better engrave that chauffeur cap you’re wearing because it’s about to see a lot more action. The after-school activity chaos is about to begin.

The struggle to balance kids’ never-ending activities with your sanity can be overwhelming. Financial considerations aside, some families may opt to cut back to reduce the chaos. But, for those who find themselves getting more ice time than an NHL player, keep these tips in mind to avoid a full-blown meltdown (parents included). After all, planning is the name of the game.

5 Tips to Survive After-School Activity Chaos

Find a carpool comrade

Coordinating schedules with multiple pick-ups and drop-offs can be overwhelming, so know when it’s time to call in for reinforcements. If you can manage to enroll your kids in the same activities as their friends or neighbours, you’re already on the right track (cue victory dance). But if that’s not doable, get to know the parents of the kids enrolled in your child’s activity to determine if there’s carpool potential. Chances are you’ll get to know them very well if your kids continue pursuing the same activity.

Pack snacks in advance

Regret is a six-letter word that comes to me almost daily at 3:15 p.m. We’ve breathlessly arrived home from school pick-up and are mid-way through the mad dash to get back out the door when I remind myself that I should have organized snacks ahead of time. Setting aside parent-approved grab-and-go snacks that are easily accessible for kids to reach, or preparing an extra helping of cut fruit and veggies when making lunches are a few of the ways you can save time later. Your future self will thank you.

Identify quick-and-easy meal solutions

There’s no time to ponder “What’s for dinner?” while you’re breaking a sweat as you tighten the laces on your kid’s figure skates. Plan meals before the start of the week so that you can hit the ice, er, ground running and choose meals that don’t require a degree in culinary school. Meal prep in advance as much as you can and cultivate a list of slow cooker meals with leftovers that can be used for school lunches. And there’s no shame in hitting up the drive-thru… that’s where you’ll find me every Thursday night!

Find ways to make the wait … great

Mom guilt can hit me while I’m sitting in the car with one kid while her sister is at dance class. I worry that her time could be better spent than doing the after-school activity shuffle. But I choose to overcome that guilt by maximizing our time together – we take a walk, grab a hot chocolate at a local café, or pull out the pile of schoolwork we’re supposed to stay on top of. Admittedly, some days are spent running errands but even that time can be an opportunity to catch up on all the Grade 1 gossip.

Be kind to yourself…

Snacks are forgotten, classes are missed, dinners are less than desirable – every day has its own set of challenges. Remember that we’re all doing the best we can and sometimes that requires lowering our own expectations. Overcome the guilt and take the steps you need to get through the daily grind intact. There’s always tomorrow and a new set of activities that will make you feel like you’ve run a marathon.

Why Does My Child Argue with Everything I Say?

Whether we’re under stress with work or school or attempting to enjoy some downtime when we get it, as a family we feel stuck in a negative rhythm. Who else feels like they’re stuck in a ‘argue, yell, repeat’ cycle with your kids? Why does my child argue with everything I say?

You’re not alone—it happens in houses across the country. It’s almost as if the kids just want to keep having the same fight no matter how scary or sad it is. The truth is, they sort of do.

Most kids do want to keep reliving the same script because as uncomfortable as it is, it’s familiar. Whether it is about mealtime, bedtime, bath or screen time, the kids know this script so well (and let’s face it, the parents do too). It’s not going to change unless you change it.

Here’s a familiar dance:

You: ‘Time for bed, okay?’ (Child does not move. Responds with a tantrum.) You drag them to their bedroom, or talk about it for 10 minutes before giving in and letting them stay up. Repeat again the following night. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Here are two practical tips for avoiding the fighting cycle:

1. Decide when your child can have control

When we make every decision, our kids tend to fight for control.

Have your child set their own timer for 10 minutes before bedtime. When the timer goes, they can let you know it’s time to get ready. When the timer rings, they should know: ‘The timer means bedtime. We get books and a chat/snuggle with mom or dad at bedtime.’

If they don’t follow through, your line might be, ‘The timer is ringing, what does that mean?’

This can be applied for anyone and for any task right now as well. Set a timer for 5-10 minutes before said task needs to start. That’s their reminder that it’s time for them to get started with whatever needs to be done.

How can you give them even more control? Maybe you can discuss when they think an appropriate bedtime is (within reason, of course). Or maybe you can talk about what they want to incorporate into their bedtime routine. Maybe they want time for a snack, or maybe they’d like more than one story.

2. Teach your child the new plan

And make sure they know how you will respond when it goes well and when it doesn’t go well.

Write it out so that it is all clear to everyone involved. Take time to teach your child the new plan for bedtime.

If they are:

2 years and under: Talk it through with them, with photos or drawings of the steps; you could even make a book.
3 years and up: Involve them in creating the written plan.

EITHER WAY, give your child a new script. Know what you will say to cue them and tell them their lines too.

The yelling happens because it’s part of a known script and because we are frustrated by being back in the same situation yet again. Yelling stops when we know exactly what is expected and how we will respond when it works and when it doesn’t.

And will your child argue? Probably, at first. It is okay for your child to feel sad when things go differently from what they want. Try saying, ‘I know you would rather keep playing. It’s okay to be sad. I’m moving forward with our plan. Let me know when you are ready to help out, you can cry if you need to.”

Good luck, parents. This isn’t easy, but it sure is worth it.

11 Family Dinner Conversation Starters

I love family dinners and am fortunate enough to eat my main meal with my husband and both children almost every night of the week, thanks to flexible work schedules and a desire on all of our parts to chow down on some grub together at least once a day. After nearly 15 years of parenting, I think I’ve nailed down the actual dinner part of the equation, but it’s the conversation side of the things that is often lacking. The typical “how was your day?” is often answered with “fine,” and “what did you do at school?” is usually accompanied with “nothing.”

In an effort to get our kids to actually speak TO us, we came up with some family dinner conversation starters, which we pull out a few times a week when we sense that the kids aren’t feeling their chattiest. Here are some of the more popular questions we’ve posed to our boys over the years, and almost all of them ensure the dinner is never dull.

11 Conversation Starters for Family Dinners

If you could eat just one food everyday for a month and nothing else, what would it be?
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If you could trade places with your parents for a day, what would you do differently?
What do you want to be when you grow up and why?
What would you do if you were a king or a queen?
If you could create a new tradition for our family, what would it be? Or how would you change a family tradition we already have?
Who is the funniest person you know?
If you woke up tomorrow and could do something that you can’t do today, what would it be?
Who is your favourite character from a book, movie or TV show? Why?
What is the one thing you wish you had discovered?
If you could have only one of your senses, which would you choose?

Also, one more thing to consider: In my experience it’s important to encourage discussions that have nothing to do with the actual dinner on the table. This will look different for every family, of course, but if you can successfully avoid talking about the food or meal while you’re dining, you decrease the chances of opening up the conversation to critiquing what’s on the plate, which in turn can lead to a stressful dinner. Instead, focus on the positive conversations that create laughter and ensure everyone enjoys being at the table. This holds true for parents as well; instead of discussing the to-do list or an issue with your boss, bring something light-hearted and fun to the table instead.

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Calgary

Dining out with kids can be a bit of a challenge at times, but it’s definitely worth it – especially when it means not having to deal with dirty dishes! As an added bonus, quite a few restaurants where kids eat free in Calgary with specials happening during the week. If you’re on the hunt for some delicious, best-bang-for-your-buck places to grab a bite with your family, we’ve rounded up all the places we could find in YYC where your kiddo can eat for free!

*As restaurant specials are subject to change, you may want to check with the restaurants we’ve listed before visiting to make sure these specials are still being offered.

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Calgary

Denny’s | dennys.ca

With the purchase of a regular-priced adult entrée, kids can choose an entrée and side of their own from the Kids Menu. Favourites include Mac and Cheese, Jr. Premium Chicken Tenders, and the Build Your Own Jr. Grand Slam. They’ve also got smoothies, milkshakes, and free refills on soft drinks and lemonade.
When to go: Kids Eat Free Every Tuesday from 4 pm

East Side Mario’s | eastsidemarios.com

Sign up your kids 10 and under to join the Mini Marios Club. You’ll receive special offers all year long as well as a VIP membership card with 5 FREE Kids ‘meals and 5 FREE Chillers. Menu favourites include Kids Sliders and Build Your Own Pasta; all meals come with a choice of milk, juice or soft drink and dessert!
When to go: Once you’ve got your VIP card, get your free meals and drinks any time!

Cravings Market Restaurant | cravingsmarketrestaurant.com

Cravings Market Restaurant makes fresh, gorgeous-looking food daily and offers a huge selection of menu items including pastas, steaks, pan Asian cuisine, seafood, pizzas, and burgers.

When to go: Kids ages 6 and under eat free from the Kids’ Menu from Monday to Thursday with the purchase of an adult entrée.

Montana’s | montanas.ca

Sign your kids (12 and under) up for the Montana’s Kids Club so they can get access to promotions all year long, a free cooler drink just for joining as well as a free meal on their birthday!
When to go: Head to Montana’s for a free birthday meal on your kid’s birthday (once they’ve joined the Kids Club), or on Tuesdays for $2 kids meals with the price of an adult entrée (it’s not free, but pretty darn close!)

Ripe Tomato Pizza | ripetomatopizza.com

If you love the taste of authentic Italian Neapolitan pizza, Ripe Tomato Pizza is sure to hit the spot. Their specialty Forno oven cooks delicious dough and fresh ingredients to create up mouth watering pizza from the menu or from whatever toppings you choose. They also serve pasta, salads, sandwiches, wings, and more.
When to go: On Tuesdays, buy one 9″ or 12″ pizza and receive a free 6″ two topping pizza for free!

Pacini Calgary South | pacini.com

Pacini offers delicious Italian fare like spaghetti, ravioli, penne alfredo, pizza and more. Their Kids Menu is for kids 12 and under and includes Minestrone or cream soup of the day or Caesar salad, choice of drink (juice, milk or Pacini cocktail), access to the All-you-can-eat Bread Bar and dessert!
When to go: Kids eat free in Calgary at Pacini Calgary South (note: this is only for the south location) all day on Saturdays and Sundays (one Kids Meal per adult entree).

Spot on Kitchen & Bar | spotoncalgary.com

The food at Spot On is exactly that. From mouth-watering pizza and burgers to creamy mac and cheese and French Onion Soup that’s outta this world, you’ll hardly be able to wait for your next excuse to visit. Each item from the Kids Menu comes with a drink and a popsicle for dessert.
When to go: Kids eat free on Sundays!

IHOP | ihop.ca

Of course, IHOP is known for their pancakes first and foremost, but they also have other tasty breakfast fare as well as cheeseburgers, chicken strips, macaroni and cheese, and even chicken and waffles on the Kids Menu.
When to go: Kids 12 and under eat free from the Kids Menu on Thursdays. Get one free kids’ entree (drink not included) with each adult entree.

Humpty’s | humptys.com

Humpty’s has 3 menus for your family to choose from: their Dinner Menu, their Feature Menu, and their Kids Menu. The Kids Menu has tons of options for breakfast foods like pancakes, french toast and omelettes, and other favourites like battered cod and chicken tenders. Non-breakfast meals (excluding pasta) come with a choice of fresh veggies, curly fries, fries, soup, Caesar or garden salad, and all meals come with a free drink.

When to go: On Fridays from 5 – 9 pm, children 10 and under qualify for one free child meal per adult meal valued at $11 or greater. Kids 10 and other also get a free entrée and drink or a kid’s sundae free on their birthday. Kids under two can get mashed potatoes and gravy or two mini cakes or a nappie of soup with crackers free with an adult entrée purchase every day.

Ricky’s Restaurants | rickysrestaurants.ca

Ricky’s has all kinds of delicious meals for kids to try, including breakfast choices like pancakes, eggs, and bacon or waffles, or lunch and dinner options such as crispy prawns, fish and chips, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and more. All kids meals come with a toy from the treasure chest and a drink. Lunch and dinner menu items also come with a choice of sides (fries, tossed salad, veggies & dip, mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables) and a build-your-own sundae at the end!
When to go: Kids 10 and under can join the Ricky’s Birthday Club, and will be e-mailed a coupon for a free Kids Meal two days before their birthday.

Costa Vida | costavida.com

For fresh-made Mexican food, head to Costa Vida! Tacos, quesadillas and enchiladas (along with rice, beans, a sweet cinnamon tortilla, and small drink) make up the Kids Menu. For grownups, the sky’s the limit – add burritos, Baja bowls, nachos and salads, and you’ve got a taste of what you’ll find on the menu!

When to go: Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal on Mondays.

Phil’s Family Restaurant | phils.ca

Phil’s has been serving up delicious diner food to Calgarians since 1956. They’ve got breakfast any (and every) way you like it, as well as sandwiches and wraps, steaks and burgers, soups and salads, and Phil’s famous “Chubbies” – medallions of pork, beef or chicken.
When to go: Kids eight years old and under receive complimentary dollar-size pancakes when dining with their parents every day. They also have free baby-sized plates of mashed potatoes, gravy and vegetables with baby utensils.

Eggs & More | facebook.com

Eggs & More really wasn’t kidding when they named their restaurant. Their huge menu includes a ton of egg-cellent breakfast dishes like omelettes, benedicts, skillets and bowls, but also has pancakes, waffles, burgers, salads, soups, sandwiches, pastas and more.
When to go: Kids eat free on Saturdays (one child per adult meal).

What’s your favourite restaurant to visit from our list? Did we miss any great spots to score a free Kids Meal in YYC? Let us know in the comments!

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Ottawa

Looking for restaurants where kids eat free in Ottawa? We know, it’s becoming harder and harder to find, which we can totally understand in this economy. There are still a few restaurants in Ottawa where kids eat free and there are options for $2 meals which is still pretty great!

Enjoying a meal out as a family means you are able to focus more on the family time and less on the prep, cooking, and clean up part of mealtime. Who also doesn’t love going to an Ottawa restaurant where kids eat free?! With young children this can be a special outing inviting them to try new places and foods or taking them out for their favourites. It also lifts the stress that the daily prep, cooking and clean up from meals at home can bring.

However, eating out can come at a hefty price tag when you start to factor in meals for the whole family. Exploring restaurants that are not only family friendly but also easy on the pocket book can make eating out more enjoyable and possibly something you even do more often.

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Ottawa

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Zaks Diner

Zaks Diner has 4 locations across Ottawa and a 5th location will be opening soon in Westboro. With locations currently in Kanata, Byword Market, Elgin St., and Carleton Place you don’t have to travel far to find a Zaks close to you. This diner is not only family friendly with great prices but is also delicious! With something to please everybody you can enjoy some of the best milkshakes and yummy food in a family friendly atmosphere. Kids eat free Sunday to Thursday from 4p.m. to close with the purchase of an adult meal. Note that this is for indoor dining only and holidays are excluded.

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Montana’s

While not free (not much is these days, right?!) for only $2 with the purchase of an adult meal kids can enjoy some delicious eats. Every Tuesday at Montana’s you can get a kids meal for $2 which includes a drink, main and dessert. With many locations throughout Ottawa (Bank St., Merivale, Ogilvie, Strandherd & Earl Grey) you can find a Montana’s only a short drive away from your home which makes for a quick and easy Tuesday evening dinner. Who doesn’t love a night off from cooking?!

Saveurs des Continents

Looking for a buffet option that offers a little bit of everything? Saveurs des Continents in Gatineau is a great option and kids eat free (ages 12 and under) with the purchase of an adult meal every day except for Saturdays. On Saturdays, kids under 4 still eat free. From Italian to Asian to African and, there is a large variety of options to please everyone.

East Side Marios

East Side Marios is another great option for a Tuesday with $2 kids meals. Unlimited salad/soup and bread keeps the kids happy while they wait for their meals and East Side Marios pasta or pizza kids meals are always a hit. For an added bonus sign up for the “Mini Marios” Kids Club and you will also receive 5 free kids meals with the purchase of adult entrees. You can find ESM locations in Kanata, Barrhaven, Hunt Club, Ogilvie, Bells Corners, Innes, Kanata, and Hull.

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Barley Mow

With locations on Tenth Line, Merivale, March, Carp, and Greenbank the Barley Mow has kids eat free in Ottawa every Sunday with the purchase of an adult meal. What we love is that this is an all day offer which also makes for a great breakfast option! Remember those days, pre-kids, when you would enjoy a hot breakfast that you didn’t have to make and unlimited hot coffee?! Well now is your chance to enjoy some delicious breakfast food once again!

Johnny Canucks

Johnny Canucks will feed the kids for free Sundays 4-9p.m. With two locations in Ottawa, one in Orleans and the other Billings Bridge area, you can enjoy this Bar & Grill with a yummy pint as a family. Monday and Wednesdays are half price appetizers which also makes for an economical meal with the family if the kids love appys!

Mandarin

Kids 4 and under eat free at Mandarin with half price buffet options for children ages 5-12. Don’t be fooled….this restaurant also serves pizza and other kid faves. There are many options available at the buffet, even something for the pickiest eaters. Find a location close to you in Kanata, Orleans, Hunt Club area & on Ogilvie.

With many places where kids eat free in Ottawa (and cheap!) in the surrounding areas, we hope that your family will enjoy a meal or two out at a local restaurant. Whether it’s just to take a break from the regular mealtimes or you are on the go and need to eat out we know that you will love trying these Ottawa restaurants.

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Vancouver (or Cheap!)

Most of us do a lot of meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking in an average week – not to mention the cleaning up after we’ve eaten. And though it’s good for the budget to cook at home, it’s not always the most fun or relaxing. If you’re needing a break from the daily kitchen grind (especially if you have little ones who don’t always adore the option presented to them), there’s no shortage of great family-friendly restaurants in the city for breakfast, brunch, lunch, supper and even fancy Sunday dinners. Bonus: a few of them have options where kids eat free in Vancouver – yes, free (or, at least, with a special super-low cost menu.)

Though these specials are not as common as they once were, there are still a few around. Here’s a selection to check out. It’s always best to confirm with your chosen destination that a promotion is still in effect, especially if it’s a chain with multiple sites:

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Vancouver:

Denny’s

Kids eat for free on Tuesdays after 4 pm. But be aware of the fine print: that’s up to two free kids’ entrees from the kids’ menu with the purchase of one regular priced adult entrée. Kids must be 10 and under.
Details here

Montana’s

At Montana’s, kids who are 12 and under can join the Montana’s Kids Club. They can register online and then have access to several special deals: a free birthday meal, $2 meals on Tuesday, a free drink for signing up, and more promotions throughout the year.
Details and registration

The Pantry

There’s no free meals here but their unique take on a family discount makes them a great budget-friendly spot to head for a meal. Kids meals are $5.99 most of the time but on Wednesday nights the price drops to $2.99 – and adults can get a three-course meal for $12.99.
Details here

Smitty’s

There isn’t a single Smitty’s in the Lower Mainland (much to our continued disappointment) but there are several on Vancouver Island. Most Smitty’s locations offer a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entrée at specific days and times. If you’re over on the island for a getaway, give one of the local spots a call to confirm the schedule and head out for a visit at this classic Canadian restaurant.
Details here

Red Robin

This one is for the adults but a free burger is a nice treat, regardless of age, especially at a restaurant that’s family friendly. Red Robin has a reward program that includes a free birthday burger, a tenth item free, and unique promotions throughout the year (including some that are just for teachers.)
Details here

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Toronto

Between COVID-19 and sky-high inflation, it should come as no surprise that kids eat free in Toronto deals are unfortunately an increasingly rare promotion. While these types of offers were already in decline back in 2019 when we last updated this list, the events of the last few years have (understandably) cut down on the number of restaurants offering free meals for little ones.

But there are still a few spots out there where kids eat free. Below, we round those restaurants up and call attention to exactly when those deals are offered. We’ve also expanded this list to include a few notable kids-eat-cheap deals because we know that in 2023, families can use every tip available when it comes to cutting costs without sacrificing the fun.

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Toronto

Denny’s

Pancakes for dinner anyone? Or how about French toast or a Jr. Grand Slam breakfast combo? All those options and more are available to kids for free every Tuesday from 4 pm to 10 pm at the Denny’s, so long as you also purchase a regular adult meal. In Toronto, Denny’s has two locations, one on St. Clair West, near Jane Street and another right downtown near Yonge and Dundas.
When to go: Tuesdays

East Side Mario’s

Sign your kids up for the Mini Marios Club and they’ll automatically receive a coupon for a free Mario Chiller (think a sugary, fancy smoothie). They’ll also be mailed a membership card good for five free kids menu meals, which include a drink, a choice between chicken fingers or sliders as their main, and ice cream or a peanut-free brownie for dessert. That membership card will also get your kids five free Mario’s Chillers, making this an even sweeter offer.
When to go: Any day with free membership card

Mandarin

Mandarin is a favourite among families for many reasons, one being its massive variety of food choices (even the pickiest eater will find something here). Another reason? Its pricing for children. Kids four and under eat free (up to two kids per one adult) while kids ages five to 12 get a 50 percent discount off whatever the going rate is for the buffet. Adult buffet rates vary
by meal and day-of-the-week but expect to pay at least $36 for the dinner option.
When to go: Any day of the week.

McSorley’s Saloon & Grill

One of the most challenging aspects of eating out with kids is that they get bored. But on Wednesday nights at McSorley’s, your kids can enjoy not only a free meal (with the purchase of an adult entrée and beverage) but also free entertainment in the form of a magic show put on by Ben Jones Magic. The show runs from about 5:30pm-7pm while the free meal deal, which includes such dishes as beef tacos, hamburger, and mac and cheese, is offered from 5pm until 8pm. You can find McSorley’s over at 1544 Bayview Avenue, just south of Eglinton.
When to go: Wednesdays

Montana’s BBQ & Bar

Pre-COVID, kids could eat here free on Tuesdays. Now that’s changed to $2 meals every Tuesday (with the purchase of an adult entrée), which we still think is quite reasonable. Meal choices include grilled cheese, pizza, and crispy chicken fingers, just to name a few. If you sign your child up for Montana’s Kids’ Birthday Club, your child will also get a free kid’s meal on their special day. They’ll also get a coupon for a free kid’s cooler, as a sign-up thank-you gift. Montana’s has two Toronto locations, at 2011 Steeles Avenue West and at 65 Skyway Avenue, and another 13 restaurants throughout the GTA.
When to go: Tuesdays

The Old Mill

This is another destination that has revamped its kids-eat-free deal. Now only kids who are three and under dine for free at Old Mill’s all-you-can-eat weekend buffet brunch. At least this scenic restaurant has kept its wide variety of brunch selections, which include eggs, waffles, salads, carving stations, and all kinds of tasty desserts. Kids ages four to 11 pay a reduced rate of $25 for the brunch buffet, while everyone else is changed $50 for this memorable meal.
When to go: Weekends

South Street Burger

Do you have a burger-loving kid who happens to have a birthday coming up? Then be sure to sign up for South Street Burger’s Birthday Club; all you need is an email address. You’ll then be sent a coupon shortly before your kid’s birthdate for a buy-get-one-free deal, which means you (or maybe another family member) will also get a burger. South Street has 10 locations in Toronto and more in the GTA.
When to go: On your child’s birthday

Stacked Pancake House

There are no free meals for kids at this very family-friendly spot however, the portion sizes for even the kids’ meals are so huge, that you’ll feel like you’re getting a free food. Recently opened on the Danforth, Stacked offers all kinds of classic and over-the-top breakfast items (the kids’ menu includes Nutella banana French toast, birthday cake pancakes, and grilled cheese) as well as a nice mix of burgers and sandwiches. Pricing for kids’ meals runs from $6.99 to $9.99 and includes a drink.
When to go: Any day so long as you go before 3pm; this place isn’t open for dinner

Sushi Zuki

Okay, sushi isn’t the most child-friendly food out there, but we hear that there are some families that just love spicy salmon rolls, tempura, and miso soup. If that describes your household, or if you want to expand your child’s palate, stop by Sushi Zuki at 2030 Eglinton Avenue West. While it doesn’t offer free meals to kids, it does offer a variety of high-quality sushi rolls and other Japanese dishes at surprisingly low prices, such as seven pieces of tasty, crispy tempura vegetables for just $7.95.
When to go: Any day of the week

Swiss Chalet

At certain Swiss Chalet locations, kids who are 10 and under can eat free on their birthday. Per Swiss Chalet’s website, this promotion “…is at each franchisee’s discretion, so this offer is available at participating locations only.” If this promotion is available at your selected Swiss Chalet, your child will enjoy a meal that includes a main, a side, a drink, and a kid’s dessert. Toronto is home to eight Swiss Chalets while over a dozen other locations can be found throughout the GTA.
When to go: On your child’s birthday

United Bakers Dairy Restaurant

Since 1912, this North York culinary institution has been serving delicious meals that have a reputation for being a great value. Portions are on the larger size while the prices are still quite reasonable. For $8.99, your child can pick from a list of kids’ meals that include grilled cheese and fries, a pizza bagel and fries, and even French toast, all served with a drink.
When to go: Any day of the week

Menu: A Perfect Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two

Sure, we all love the thought of getting glammed-up to paint the town red (with a night full of roses, champagne, and a 5-course dinner) to celebrate Valentine’s Day. But, when you’ve got kids (and let’s be honest, a mortgage) some things have got to give. Besides, we all know restaurants don’t always offer their best service on Feburary 14 anyway. So we say skip the fancy reservations this year and instead celebrate with an ultra-romantic homemade Valentine’s Day dinner for two.

Does it seem like a lot of work? Don’t fret. From the decadent menu (think pink peppercorn crusted beef tenderloin and the most indulgent warm chocolate cakes ever) to our step-by-step recipes and a handy grocery list, we’ve done most of the work for you.

Now all you have to do is get the kids to bed early, light some candles, turn on some music to set the mood, and pop the cork on that bottle of Veuve.

A Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two

The Salad

Light and healthy, yet packed with robust and peppery flavours, this salad is the perfect start to a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two. Keep it as it is, or elevate it even more with some crumbled goat cheese or feta.

Get the recipe → Arugula & Cherry Tomato Salad

The Main Course

Could anything say Valentine’s Day more than a juicy fillet of beef? We’ve upped the romance-factor even more by crusting the beef tenderloin fillets with flaked sea salt and lots of crushed pink peppercorns.

Get the recipe → Pink Peppercorn Crusted Beef Tenderloin Fillets

The Sides

Roasted with maple syrup and scattered with fresh thyme, these glazed heirloom carrots are an extra-special addition to an already special meal.

Get the recipe → Maple & Thyme Roasted Heirloom Carrots

The perfect side to a beef tenderloin steak? Perfect mashed potatoes. YUM.

Get the recipe → Perfect Mashed Potatoes

The Dessert

Pure decadence. The perfect end to a perfect meal. Need we say more?

Get the recipe → Bittersweet Warm Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes

Your Valentine’s Day Dinner Grocery Shopping List:

Pantry staples you probably have:

Good quality Olive Oil
Balsamic vinegar
Dijon mustard
Honey
All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon

Additional ingredients you will need:

1 container baby arugula leaves
1 container cherry tomatoes
2 Beef tenderloin steaks
Pink peppercorns
Flaked sea salt
2 bunches heirloom carrots
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bottle pure maple syrup
5 to 7 Yukon gold potatoes
1 lb (4 sticks) unsalted butter
250 mL container table cream
8 oz bittersweet chocolate
1 dozen eggs
Coarse sugar

Looking for more Valentine’s Day ideas? Check out our Savvy Guide to Valentine’s Day!

15 Great (City Approved) Toboggan Hills in Calgary

Think you can grab your sled and barrel down just any hill? Think again. Sledding is serious stuff in Calgary, with bylaws cracking down on rogue riders. Fortunately, there are 22 designated toboggan hills across the city that are considered official toboggan hills in Calgary. Here’s a look at a few of our favourites in each corner of the city.

OUR FAVOURITE TOBOGGAN HILLS IN CALGARY

North West Quadrant

St. Andrew’s Heights

Some reckon this is the very best of the toboggan hills in all of Calgary. There’s one long, steep hill that adventure seekers make a beeline for. It’s got a long, flat bit at the bottom (and a fence), so you don’t have to worry about hitting the road. For wee winter warriors, there’s a smaller slope near the Community Centre that’s likely just their speed.
Find more info here.

Confederation Park

Pegged as the premier hill, Confederation Park boasts varied terrain with a few different hills to slide down on. With its cute little bridges crossing the creek and large, mature trees, this super pretty spot is tops for family photos, too. Load up with all your gear because this park also has an outdoor ice rink and clear pathways for long walks and runs.
Find more info here.

Hidden Valley

There’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had at Hidden Valley, so pack some skates and hot chocolate along with your sled to make a day of it! Just behind the outdoor rink is a large hill with a steep drop and large, fenced-off greenspace which makes it a popular destination for riders of all ages. For tired legs, there are pathways with a more gradual incline to head back to the top.
Find more info here.

North East Quadrant

Prairie Winds

You’ll find huge variety at Prairie Winds Park, situated in Calgary’s northeast quadrant. It’s quite a rush zipping down the long, steep slope as planes whiz past overhead to and from the airport. While the main draw is its large hill, there are smaller slopes off on the side for younger tots.
More info here.

Big Marlborough Park

Flanked by the Community Centre and three schools, you know this hill sees a lot of action after class. Head here before the bell with wee ones or take the troops on the weekend when the fire pits are going along the outdoor ice rink. Speaking of the ice rink, expect to get some mileage on it if your run is really spectacular.
Here’s where you’ll find more info.

Deerfoot Athletic Park

Located in the community of Maryland Heights, the medium-sized hill at Deerfoot Athletic Park can get pretty busy on a beautiful, snowy day. We like to think the crowds are a good indication that this hill is definitely a must-ride! There’s a parking lot located a short walk from the hill itself, so you can visit from any corner of the city.
Find out more here.

South West Quadrant

Signal Hill

Super popular in the southwest, Signal Hill is located in a residential area, flanked by so many houses you can feel pretty safe about letting big kids loose here on their own. The hill itself isn’t overly steep, but it does the trick nicely and there’s a long, flat stretch at the bottom, so sledders come to a comfortable stop.
Find more info here.

Stanley Park

Conveniently located near Macleod Trail, Stanley Park is one of our personal faves. The hill is steep in the centre, but is also pretty wide, allowing littles to pick just the right pitch. At the bottom of the hill is an excellent piece of large playground equipment that sees plenty of action in winter, too. This park also sports one of the city’s prettiest outdoor ice rinks and there are curling rocks and complimentary hockey sticks if you’re looking for a change of pace.
Find out more here.

Kingsland Dry Pond

Kingsland is the perfect spot for younger kiddos to learn the ropes of tobogganing. Whether you’ve got a first timer or a more seasoned sledder gearing to pick up some speed, the hill behind the arenas has both a shallow and steep side, ready for riders to take their pick. The parking lot near the arenas makes this an easy spot to visit whether it’s in your neighbourhood or not.
Find out more here.

Bridlewood

Bridlewood is another great destination for younger riders or kids who like an easy, challenge-free ride down the hill. There’s street parking available along the side of the park.
Find out more here.

South East Quadrant

McKenzie Towne

This suburb is chock-a-block with young families, so it makes sense you’d find a happening hill in this hood. At almost 300 feet, Elgin Hill is super long, but that only makes your experience here more exciting.
Check out this link for more info.

New Brighton

Add the hill at New Brighton to your list if you’re on the hunt for tobogganing that’s in a location as beautiful as it is entertaining. Nature lovers will enjoy walking along the pathways that wind through New Brighton Central Park, and of course, sledders will have a blast ripping down the hill.
Find out more here

Maple Ridge

If you’re trying to satisfy the speed needs of both adrenaline junkies and more cautious sledders, Maple Ridge may be just the spot you’re looking for. There are both small and larger slopes ready to ride, and they run out onto a U-shaped dry pond, making it super safe.
Find out more here

Bonus Spots!

Winsport Tube Park

Ready to take your sled game to the next level? Head to Winsport to check out the Servus Tube Park for an experience that’s sure to take your breath away! Purchase your two-hour ticket in advance online, grab your tube, and head up the hill on the magic carpet to race down one of the eight snowy tracks. Visit the website for ticket pricing, and keep your eyes peeled for discounted Friday evening tickets. If you’re planning to visit the park as a spectator, you’ll have to purchase a ticket as well.
More info here.

Canmore Nordic Centre

Yes, it’s outside the city, but this purpose-built toboggan hill boasts plenty of lanes, some bumps for speed demons, and gentle slopes for the young ‘ens. Make a day out of it with a spot a spot of winter disk golf or gliding across their famed cross country ski trails. There’s also a cafe onsite and a small outdoor skating rink.
More info here.

What are your favourite tobogganing hills in Calgary? We’d love to hear them in the comments!

The Best Tobogganing Hills in Toronto

Make the most of winter with a day out tobogganing. It’s an active activity that’s fun, free, and perhaps best of all, guaranteed to use up some of your kid’s seemingly endless energy. And there’s actually no shortage of good tobogganing hills in Toronto!

Below we round up our favourite Toronto tobogganing spots. While all these spots will provide some degree of thrills, don’t be surprised if your local favourite isn’t listed below. We’re playing it safe and only highlighting tobogganing hills in Toronto found on the City’s list of officially sanctioned hills.

These are locations that have been deemed safe by the City. However, note that these hills aren’t groomed or maintained the way a skating rink is. Helmet use is encouraged but isn’t mandatory.

A quick apology to our west-end readers for the lack of west-of-Yonge destinations. Your side of town just isn’t as hilly… But hey, you do tend to have the best restaurants!

9 Great Tobogganing Hills in Toronto

Adams Park

2 Rozell Rd., Toronto

Our first choice is found way out in the east end and conveniently close to the 401 (Pickering and Ajax residents, come check it out). The hills here aren’t too intense but there’s enough variety to keep things interesting for all ages and skill levels. There’s also a playground on site in case someone needs a break from the hills.

Bickford Park

400 Grace St., Toronto

While tobogganing might be banned at nearby Christie Pitts, you are allowed to slide down Bickford Park’s gentler hills. This site does get busy, but the spaciousness of its three hills usually keeps it from feeling too crowded.

Cedarvale Park

443 Arlington Ave., Toronto

This midtown park is many locals’ go-to tobogganing spot thanks to its various hills, including one particularly wide one that provides just the right amount of steepness for most kids (and even some adults). The nearby skating rink means that this park also has handy access to real washrooms.

Centennial Park

165 Centennial Park Blvd., Toronto

Centennial Park is one of the best known tobogganing hills in Toronto and for a good reason: It’s a ton of fun. The main toboggan hill is known for its speed so this destination is not the best fit for younger children, but school-age thrill seekers will love it. And parents will love that this park has plenty of free parking.

Greenwood Park

150 Greenwood Ave., Toronto

Have one kid that wants to sled and another that wants to skate? Then Greenwood Park should be your destination. This giant park has a spacious hill that works for all ages. Then there’s the fantastic skating rink, which comes with a heated change room and washrooms.

L’Amoreaux Sports Complex

100 Silver Springs Blvd., Toronto

The long, wide hills that make up this tobogganing area are ideal for families that want their space, and there’s ample parking and a nearby playground. These hills in Toronto also provide some nice views and, depending on where exactly you sled, some great thrills due to their steepness.

Riverdale Park, East

550 Broadview Ave., Toronto

Arguably Toronto’s most photogenetic sledding destination is the eastern portion of Riverdale Park, which provides Instagram-worthy views of the downtown skyline. But while you’re capturing the perfect photo, your kids can enjoy some of the best hills in the city. Just note that this location can get very busy; we recommend stopping by in the mornings, ideally after a fresh snowfall.

Riverdale Park, West

375 Sumach St., Toronto

Smaller, mellower, and more accessible that its eastern half, the west side of Riverdale Park is a great fit for little kids or those who aren’t a fan of big hills. It also features a set of stairs that will take you and your kids right to the top, meaning less scampering up snowy hills.

Withrow Park

725 Logan Ave., Toronto

Have young kids? Then this is the place to bring your little ones for sledding. The hills here are (for the most part) pretty smooth and gentle and are filled with other young families that understand that little ones can be unpredictable. Withrow also features easy access to a playground and washrooms, located over by the skating rink.