If the playground is getting too soggy and upcoming holiday expenses are keeping your budget tight, try one of these free or almost free drop-in programs available for parents with tots in Kitsilano.
1. Play and Learn
The West Side Family Place is a welcoming, fun space for babies, toddlers, and kids. They offer creative and educational toys, books, arts & crafts, a fenced outdoor play area, and even a toy lending library! Drop-in hours are Mon-Fri 9:30am-12pm and Tue-Wed 1pm-4:30pm. Check their website for current hours and holiday closures. The 1st visit is free and thereafter the drop-in fee is $2 per family per visit.
West Side Family Place, 2819 West 11th Avenue, (604) 738-2819, Westsidefamilyplace.com
2. Lego Block Party
Each month the Kitsilano Library branch will host a block building party with lots of imagination-inducing Lego and Duplo to play with for your tots aged 3 and up. The first party starts on Saturday, October 26th from 2pm-3pm. Drop-in is free.
Kitsilano Library branch, 2425 MacDonald Street, (604) 665-3976, Vpl.ca
3. Parent & Tot Gym
Join in this playtime where tots aged 0-5 will have the opportunity to explore various climbing apparatus, sports equipment and other toys; a great way to stimulate the mental and physical growth and development. Drop-in hours are Tuesday-Thursday, 10:30am-12pm and Saturday, 10:30am-11:30am. Drop-in fee is $3.
Kitsilano Community Centre, 2690 Larch Street, (604) 257-6976, Vancouver.ca
4. Learning Through Play
Bring the kids and get to know your neighbours, practice various languages, and increase your access to local community resources. Join the Newcomer Parent Support Circle at the Kitsilano Community Centre on Wednesdays from 9:30am-11:30am. For ages 1 and up. Drop-in is free.
Kitsilano Community Centre, 2690 Larch Street, (604) 257-6976, Vancouver.ca
5. Parent and Tot Drop-in at St. Mark’s
Come and participate in a spacious child resource centre to meet new friends, receive information and support from the Kitsilano Neighbourhood House staff, community health nurse and guest speakers. Messy art activities, circle time, outdoor play, and hands-on child activity centres included. Mondays and Fridays from 10am-11:30am. For ages 0-5. Drop-in fee is $2.
St. Mark’s Church, 1805 Larch Street, (604) 736-3588, Kitshouse.org
Last modified: January 17, 2017
