Despite it Still Being Cold
After what felt like the longest January, March Break is next week! If you haven’t secured any plans yet and you’re in charge of entertainment: here’s some ideas to keep the kid/kids content-ish throughout the week. I’ve compiled this list with a mix of free and paid options. They include outdoor activities as well as staying in the comfort of your home – if that’s more your style ;).
Free Activities
1. Ice Skating
Many local arenas and outdoor rinks offer free public skating during March Break. I really liked McCowan District Park for a more scenic spin on skating in the city. You can check out drop-in free skate times here: McCowan District Park. Just remember: skating gracefully is optional—falling at least once is practically a requirement.
2. Drop-in Swimming
Several community centres provide free drop-in swimming times during the break. It’s a great way to get spring break vibes in Canada.. Check out Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre for their latest swimming schedules. Bonus: It’s also a great way to tire out the kids before bedtime. You’re welcome.
3. Library Events and Programs
Toronto public libraries will be hosting some kids workshops like movie day, STEM activities, board games and crafts. Check with your local branch for a schedule of events.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Take advantage of everyone going somewhere by exploring the great outdoors (just dress warm 🙂). There are tons of nature trails scattered throughout the greater Toronto area (GTA) but a favorite is anything along the waterfront trail. I also have previously made a hike more engaging with a simple scavenger hunt. Feel free to reply to this email and I can send you my own template to print out.
Paid Activities
1. Visiting a Local Museum or the Toronto Zoo.
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is having some special offerings for March Break. There’s also other museums to visit like the Aga Khan Museum, and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). Don’t forget the Toronto Zoo. I personally feel like the animals are much more active in the colder months – photo for reference.
2. Indoor Playgrounds and Trampoline Parks
For high-energy fun, consider visiting an indoor playground or trampoline park. These spaces are perfect for kids to burn off energy. Don’t forget to make sure everyone washes their hands after.
3. Movie Day at the Theater
Grab some popcorn and enjoy a cozy afternoon at the movies! If you’re lucky, you might even get to watch the whole thing without multiple bathroom breaks.
4. Creative Workshops
Look for art studios or local businesses offering painting, pottery, or crafting workshops. My kids have previously enjoyed painting up their own creation at Crock A Doodle Pickering.
Activities at Home
1. DIY Movie Night
Save yourself some $$$$ and set up a cozy movie atmosphere at home with blankets, homemade popcorn, and a movie you can all agree on (last part optional).
2. Baking and Cooking Together
Spend time in the kitchen making homemade pizzas, cookies, or other favorite treats. Kids love getting hands-on with cooking, and it’s a great way to teach them valuable skills. Just be prepared for a little (or a lot) mess.
3. Put the Spring in Spring Break
Take a little break from screen time and get little hands busy with soil and tiny seeds. Not only is it a fun, hands-on learning experience that sparks curiosity about nature, but March is also a wonderful time to start seeds indoors for the upcoming warmer months ahead. Peep the progress in the second photo, just one week later.
4. Science Experiments
Turn your home into a mini science lab with easy experiments like baking soda volcanoes or making slime. Kinda tempted to make this fluffy slime for myself.
Fingers crossed your March break won’t feel like this past January. I hope this list was helpful! I know I might refer back to it mid break when I’m starting to question my sanity.
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