There are so many activities that you can do with little kids around Edmonton but the majority of those cost money. And while those activities might only cost a few dollars here and there (or more depending on what it is) it’s great to be able to have options that are completely free. No matter if you’ve got income to spare or are watching your pennies.
Having programs that are also drop-in is nice because, for anyone that has a baby, toddler, or preschooler you know that you can try to pack all the snacks, put out all the clothes, or wake up early but sometimes getting to the destination just isn’t in the cards.
In our house, it’s like Pavlov’s theory where every time the bell rings the dog salivates, only it’s when I say “okay let’s get ready” or “okay let’s get into the van” and then someone always has to poop or has pooped. Not a lie – this is seriously my life in the mornings.
Putting that all together – this list of completely free drop-in playgroups is well needed and I am sure will be well used. No registration, no money, just show up and make some of the best friends you can ever meet.
Free drop-in playgroups for little kids around Edmonton
McLeod Stay and Play Group
Come and participate in an open play environment for children and families to learn through play with a focus on the development of the whole child.
When: Mondays 10:00am – 12:00pm
Where: 14715 59 St NW
More details
Northgate Kids Program
For kids 5 and under to enjoy fun activities, make new friends, and learn about awesome programs in and around Edmonton.
When: First Wednesday of the month, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Centre Court (Downstairs by the elevators)
KidsPLAY at Londonderry Mall
A new drop-in playgroup where kids 0-6 can enjoy a morning of fun including crafts, games, story time and more
When: Third Thursday of the month, 9:00 am- 11:00 am
Where: In front of Opulence and Simons lower level
More details
Super Kids at St. Albert Centre
Kids under 5 will enjoy a morning of fun including crafts, games, story time and more
When: Fourth Thursday of the month, 9am-11am
Where: In the mall right beside the food court
More details
Creative Play & More
Each week will include some sensory play activities that encourage children to use their five senses and movement to explore and discover. These “hands-on” activities will help children develop their understanding of math, science, and language concepts in ways that are fun and developmentally appropriate.
When: Thursdays, 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Where: Kara Family Resource Centre, 6717 132 Avenue
More details
Drop-In Fun
Explore topics and share relevant resources according to families’ specific needs and interests. There will be fun crafts, songs, music, stories and other special activities each week.
When: Thursdays, 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Where: Dunluce Tenant Centre, #9, 11930 162 Avenue
More details
Hike it Baby
Hike it Baby is an all-inclusive community and everyone is welcome to join our events, from the newest baby to the eldest of the family. We welcome nannies, grannies, parents, and caregivers of all ages.
When: Various places
Where: Various places
More details
C.O.W Bus
A bookmobile that travels to various sites around the city for parents and their children from birth to 6 years old.
When: Different times depending on location
Where: Several locations across Edmonton
More details
Jumping Gym Time
Jump, run, and move with your child in our indoor play space using your whole body to build your child’s physical skills.
When: Fridays, 10:00 am – 11:30am
Where: Norwood Child and Family Resource Centre, 9516 – 114 Avenue NW
More details
Riverdale Community League
A Stay & Play drop-in program for kids (0-6yrs) where they play in the indoor play space, meet new friends, participate in fun activities and enjoy nutritional snacks.
When: Wednesdays, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: 9231 – 100 Avenue NW
More details
Norwood Wesleyan Church
Play with your child, meet new friends, and learn new activities in a fun environment
When: Wednesdays, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: 11306 – 91 Street NW
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Edmonton Public Library
Across Edmonton drop-in to your local library for programs like Baby Laptime, Sing Sign Laugh and Learn, Story Stop, Family Story Time, and more.
When: Various times
Where: Various locations
More details
Purposeful Play with Me
During this interactive play time, explore sensory, gross motor, fine motor, and literacy experiences with your children. Meet and connect with new families in your community. Snack provided.
When: Thursdays, 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Where: Primrose Place Family Resource Centre, 6311 92 Ave
More details
Kidzone at Callingwood
Every month brings a new activity for kids 0-5 years
When: Third Wednesday of the month, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Where: Oxford Learning Callingwood, 6655-178 Street
Mommy Connection Edmonton West Play Time
Join the monthly planned activities that take place at West Edmonton Mall. Playtime is best suited for kids 2-4 yrs.
When: Once a month, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Centre Stage in West Edmonton Mall
More details
Mommy Connection Edmonton West Baby Time
Join the monthly planned activities that take place at West Edmonton Mall. Babytime is best suited for kids 2 and under.
When: Once a month, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Centre Stage in West Edmonton Mall
More details
Tot Time Mill Woods Town Centre
Join other parents and kids each month where you will explore new and fun activities.
When: First Tuesday of the Month, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: By the food court
More details
Do you know of other free drop-in playgroups for little kids around Edmonton? Email [email protected].
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