With the school break finally here, parents across Canada are enjoying the warmer weather and spending more quality time with their little ones. This summer however, make sure to check the forecast and take special precautions before heading out on your family excursions.
"With this summer proving to be hotter than usual, it is a good idea to have a few indoor activities up your sleeve for when a scorching day hits the city," says Noel Straatsma, Master Model Builder at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. “Luckily, with so many activities to choose from, enjoying a day with family while remaining protected from the sun has never been easier."
Here is a list of fun, family-friendly places in Toronto to keep cool when the hot weather arrives:
• Have fun with your family this summer and get your hands a little dirty at The Children’s Garden in Chimney Court. Part of a fantastic urban regeneration project, it helps connect kids with the environment and their natural curiosity and creativity. The Children’s Garden is open on weekends and holidays, and runs by donation.
• Located on the main floor of the Toronto Broadcasting Centre, the CBC Museum features several interactive exhibits where visitors can call up excerpts from famous CBC shows, including Kids' CBC for the little ones, and CBC News and CBC Sports. Admission is free, and the museum is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Have fun with your kids at the Toronto Public Library, getting lost in a good book or attending one of the many wonderful events and exhibits hosted in the children’s wing. The library has various children’s literature collections, ensuring that you and your little ones will have plenty of stories to explore. For a list of upcoming exhibitions, click here.
• Celebrate the wonders of all things LEGO at the ultimate indoor LEGO playground located at Vaughan Mills. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto is perfect for a day jam packed with fun for your little ones. With a 4D Cinema and the brand new Ninjago City Adventure soft play structure which features over 20 interactives for kids, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre allows children to remain active while protecting themselves from the heat.
• Allan Gardens Conservatory – This gorgeous 100-year-old greenhouse is filled with showy tropical plants and blooms that will interest tots and parents alike. From colourful cacti to tall tropical vines, this beautiful spot is a lovely way to spend a few hours away from the heat, yet exploring nature. Entry is free.
• If being outdoors is the absolute must, splash pads and water play areas are conveniently located in many parks and playgrounds all over the city. They often include engaging water features such as showerheads and spray jets that keep children laughing and cooled off for hours. Remember to load up on sunscreen and keep your little ones hydrated. Here’s a complete list of Toronto’s Splash and Spray pads.
“The best way to make the most of the season is to be well-prepared,” adds Noel. “It can be hard to keep kids entertained and cool with the same old routines. Rain or shine, these activities will guarantee a fun, safe and happy summer.”