Grounds for Play

Bouncing up and down and running around: it’s what kids do. And while we love their energy, we like them to expend it outside of the home—especially on cold, dreary days.

Have no fear—these indoor playgrounds specialize in wiggles, jiggles, giggles (and giving parents a break).

Stress-free entertainment is what the Beaches’ Bizzy Bee Playcentre is all about. A fully equipped indoor playground, it features a large slide, ball pit and dress-up play area, as well as music programs and babysitting. Stay and watch the kids play as you enjoy complimentary bottled water, juice, coffee and tea, or take the time to zip out and run errands. Snacks are available for the kids but you are welcome to bring your own. Guests can use the sink, microwave and toaster oven, as well as a small eating area with child-sized picnic benches and a high chair.
Good to Know: Paid street parking is out front, but free spots can easily be found on nearby side streets.

Uptown, Just Ducky offers the perfect amalgamation of parent and kid play. With a cozy feel, it features two ball pits, a variety of age-appropriate toys and a spacious spot for parties and crafts. With onsite child-minding and adult yoga and spinning classes, parents can get fit while Just Ducky babysits. Itching for an evening out? Inquire about their ‘drop and dine’ service, available the second and fourth Saturday evening of each month. 
Good to Know: While you’re there, check out their fun store The Duck Stops Here.

With loads of parking, five party rooms and a whopping 10,000 square feet, Funnelz, located in the Eglinton Town Centre, is the perfect indoor playground for controlled shenanigans. Considered the city’s only ‘ballistic arena’, it features a light, sound and motion ball pit. Kids who thrive on adrenaline will love the 11-foot slide and little ones will enjoy safe play in the toddler-only section featuring a mini slide and jungle gym.
Good to Know: Although the facility sells snacks, you may wish to bring your own if you’re looking for the healthy variety.

If you’re in the Ossington and Bloor area, check out The Children’s Storefront. After a devastating fire in October 2009, families of the community worried it was the end of an era (it first opened in 1975). Thankfully, through community support, the popular, free children’s indoor play centre opened its new doors in February 2011. Today, The Children’s Storefront remains a fun, clean place for children to play and parents to connect. Bring your lunch or snacks (nut-free please) and enjoy a coffee while your babies play.

Mr. Dressup may have packed up his show years ago, but the tickle trunk lives on at High Park Family Fun Place. Home to the popular Suitcase Theatre, a children’s theatre company founded by the creator of Mr. Dressup, High Park Family Fun Place offers it all from an indoor playground, to creative arts programs, a library and a popular babysitting service so parents can enjoy a well-deserved dinner out.

This winter, get inside and play! Tested by Caroline P., Toronto

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