By Cynthia Breen
Although there are a lot of options for things to do outside during the winter with the kids, like skating and skiing, sometimes it can just be too cold to get them bundled up and outside. Luckily, in this area there are a lot of options to let the kids burn off some energy while staying warm.
Here is our list of local spots to take the kids this winter:
With so many options for big and little kids, this giant play area really covers something for everyone. For families with a wide variety of ages, this facility offers ropes courses, play structure, video games and even bowling all under one roof.
Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 10 am – 8 pm, Friday & Saturday, 10 am – 9 pm
Location: 425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener
Price: For a one all day unlimited use of the three-level Play Structure, and their Rocks & Ropes Course- $17.95
Just to play on the three-level structure (for kids aged 1-12) – $9.95 each or $4.95 for infants (free with other paid admission)
This place is a favourite of our family and has something for your littlest ones and busy bigger ones. They have designated places for infants and toddlers so they don’t get run over by the bigger kids, and plenty of slides and play structure for those 3 and over.
Hours: Sundays,10 am – 5 pm, Closed Mondays, Tuesdays – Thursdays, 10 am – 7 pm, Fridays & Saturdays, 10 am – 8 pm
Location: 366 Hespeler Road, Cambridge
Price: 3 – 12 years old – $9.50/plus tax per child, 12 – 36 Months – $7.50/plus tax per child, Under 12 Months – $4.00/plus tax per child or free with paying sibling.
For something a bit out of the ordinary, this facility has public jumping times (that do require a reservation so you have your own trampoline). Get some other mommy friends together and try out the trampolines with your little ones (2 and over).
Hours: The jumping times are different every weekend and are booked during any available hour. They also book on Fridays from 9 – 10 am.
Location: 115 Saltsman Dr. Unit # 11, Cambridge
Price: Cost for a 1 hr open jump: $10+HST per person. Cost for a 1 hr exclusive trampoline reservation during open jump: $28 + HST. Max of 2 people per trampoline.
Gymnastics
For a bit more organized chaos, lots of local gymnastics places offer parent and tot classes so your little one can explore just how their body can move. These are just a few of the options:
Woolwich Gymnastics – They even start at 16 months! Check out their winter schedule here.
Revolution Gymnastics – Starting at 18 months, there are a variety of options from day time classes, to evening structured classes. See their schedule here.
Dynamo Gymnastics – With the youngest starting age in our area, your little one can explore starting at 12 months, and the beautiful facility offers plenty of space. See what time works for you here.