Where to go with your kiddos in the Winter in Ottawa!

Hi Friends! I wanted to share the latest newborn photography session of this precious little man. His big brother was the cutest and was so sweet with his baby bro. During our session, we got to chatting about life with two kiddos and different places that are great to go with a toddler with a new baby. We both shared some places we knew of and I thought this would be useful information to pass along to other mommas looking to get out. Whether you have one child or five, these places are amazing for all ages. Not only is it great for the kids, but it is equally as nice to meet other moms and chat. 

Early On Center: These are free playgroups all over the city where they have different stations set up that help with fine motor by exploring different textures, doing crafts etc. They also have a large variety of toys and dress up costumes. The usual structure for these classes is unstructured play with circle time where the instructor sings songs with the children and reads them books. They offer quite a variety in times and locations so you will definitely be able to find a time that works for you. Both my kids love playgroup and have since they were quite young. Here is the link to the schedule!https://www.wocrc.ca/children-0-6-years/earlyon-cfc-programs-and-workshops

The Public Library: The Ottawa Public library offers free programs for babies and toddlers where they read books and sing songs. I have been to the one on Hazledean several times and it is wonderful. The Baby one is for 0-18 months and toddler is 19-36 months. They happen once a week with a variety of different times. Here is the link for the different times and program information. https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/program?f%5B0%5D=field_event_branch%3A1085&page=0%2C0

Chapters Story time: I was particularly fond of this one because Chapters is amazing for moms and kiddos due primarily to the Starbucks attached to it and because the kids section is so amazing. The Kanata location has a train table set up as well which is always a hit. I have been to this story time often with my girls and they sometimes even do a craft with them which is great! It is Monday-Friday at 10 am. They don’t have it listed on there website but I did call to confirm. Here is the link to their facebook page where they list special events for the Kanata location. Just this past weekend they had a princess event and my daughter loved it! https://www.facebook.com/chapters.kanata

Rideau Gymnastics: This is one of my favourites. It is located at 150 Katimavik and is a massive indoor gym. They have a large assortment of trampolines, obstacle courses and large places for them to run around. I went here every week when my second was born and put her in the carrier while my toddler ran around. The staff is always helpful and kind and often helped me with my toddler when I couldn’t pick her up due to the baby. Drop in is Monday-Friday 10-12pm and is $5. This place is best if you have a toddler than can walk or crawl. If you just have the one baby I would stick to the playgroups. Here is the link for the drop in https://rideaugymnastics.org/special-programs/open-gym-drop-in/