Summer Activities to keep you busy in Durham Region with your Babies, Toddlers or Kids!

I‘m always so happy when the nice weather arrives because it means that Fitmama Strong Durham classes can be outdoors again! Even though the weather is sometimes an issue to deal with, I know that we all enjoy being in the sunshine and warmth for a change after the seemingly never-ending cold and rainy months.

The summer also means that as parents, we're often looking to keep busy with our kids. Schools across Durham Region are wrapping up their year and while camps and family vacation time will soon fill some of our summer days, they won’t necessarily cover them all. Fortunately, Durham Region has lots of of great summer activities to build memories with our kids that aren't necessarily expensive. Hopefully, they'll keep everyone active and engaged and will keep those two little words ‘I’m bored’ to a minimum.

Do you have a favourite summer activity to do in Durham Region? Drop it in the comments below for other parents who might be looking to add to their own lists!

Here are a few of our recommendations for summer fun:

1. VISIT THE SPLASH PADS AND WADING POOLS

When the boys were little the local splash pad was always a fun activity to break up the day. We have one that is walking distance from the house but would also check out all the others in the area! You can visit a different one every day of the summer and you might not see them all! Pick one that is nearby to you, or venture out across the region for some exploring. You can check out the list of local splash pads for WHITBY, AJAX and OSHAWA.

2. TREAT YOURSELF TO SOME FROZEN TREATS

Can we really call it summer without a popsicle or ice cream? If your neighbourhood has an ice cream truck, keep some change near your front door for when you hear the tell-tale song. Or, check out local places like Tip Top Creamery in Brooklin, Butchies (the ice cream sandwiches are amazeballs and they have Vegan opitions too!) or Enniskillen General Store for some delicious Kawartha Dairy ice cream.

3. TAKE A NEIGHBOURHOOD WALK

Maybe your family is already quite familiar with your neighbourhood, but if not, the summer is the perfect time to find a new walking route to explore. I’m sure all of our neighbourhoods have something interesting to offer (I know mine does!) and you never know when you might stumble on a new park or shop.

4. VISIT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

The Whitby Public Library has free programming for children all summer long. There are special event days for children of various ages with themes incorporated into them. Aside from scheduled events, the library is a place where kids can browse their favourite book section, toddlers can explore and everyone can find a new summer read. You can also check out the local programming at Ajax Public Library and Oshawa Public Library too!

5. HEAD OUT TO AN OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT

All across the city during this summer are outdoor movie nights. Most often, they are held at local parks, and there’s a definite old-school drive-in feel to them. All you need to bring are some lawn chairs and blankets, plus admission if required. Check out the list of upcoming dates for Whitby here.

6. Check out the Hidden Gem that is Cedar Park

Cedar Park has been a go to day trip destination in Durham Region since 1955. This day trip is perfect for your toddlers to pre-teens. The water slides are a big hit for the school age kiddos (and maybe some younger babes who are up for adventure). Pack a lunch, a few chairs or a blanket, your sunscreen and you’re off! The splash pad is super fun for kids of all ages and there’s a pool too! It’s a great place to cool off for the day!

Interested in joining us? Our classes are a great way to meet other new parents. Fitmama Strong Durham has been operating in the Durham Region since 2010. We offer prenatal fitness, prenatal yoga, babywearing fitness, stroller fitness, live-online classes and and on-demand library of workouts. Our in-person and online community is a thriving and welcoming space for you and your littles.

#startwithus and #growwithus by purchasing one of our class passes. We can’t wait to have you join us! (formerly FITMOM Durham)