Activities for Children and Families
There are many programs for children and families in Waterloo Region. Activities and programs for children up to 12 years old may include:
- Arts and crafts
- Swimming lessons
- Team sports
- Indoor and outdoor games
Children can also go to day camps and overnight camps, and early-morning or after-school programs. Camps often focus on developing skills, while also learning, playing and talking, and enjoying art and physical activities.
In all these programs children learn and play, meet friends, exercise, and gain self-confidence in safe and comfortable places. They are cared for by qualified staff. Family programs offer creative and fun programs for young children, and allow parents to spend time with their children and other parents.
- Cities and townships of Waterloo Region have many programs, community centres, playgrounds, and activities for children and families. To find out more visit the websites of the cities of Cambridge, Kitchener, or Waterloo, and the townships of North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich
- The Ontario Early Years Centres in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo are places where children can play and learn, and parents can learn about programs and services, and meet with professionals and other parents
- The YMCA in Kitchener-Waterloo and the YMCA in Cambridge offer many activities for children and families, and offer child care services. Parents can take group fitness classes or exercise on their own at the YMCA while qualified staff care for their children.
- The Public Libraries in Waterloo Region offer many learning activities for children and families.
Visit the Parent Guide for a list of programs, services, and activities for children and families in Waterloo Region and across Ontario. There is also parent information on many topics.
The Community Information Centre of Waterloo Region also maintains a list of 
Parent and Child Programs in Waterloo Region.
Many programs and services are free, but some charge a fee. Some programs have lower fees for families with lower incomes.
There are also many activities that you and your children can do on your own, like:
- Taking a walk
- Reading
- Playing together
- Skating at Kitchener City Hall
- Visiting one of our Farmer’s Markets
- Visiting the Children’s Museum
Community events and festivals in Waterloo Region are great places for families.
If you need to talk to someone…
Parenting in a new country is difficult at times. These agencies may help:
For more information…