From Parks to Museums: Day Trips for Preschoolers

Day trips are a great adventure for the whole family! To ensure a smooth trip, structure it so there is time to nap in strollers or during the drive, and remember to pack things like pajamas, books, toys etc. in the event of a late return.

The following are some great day trip outings:

Farms

With petting zoos, tricycle tracks, sand boxes, obstacle courses, picnic areas, demonstrations, marketplaces and corn mazes, public farms are a great place to go for the day. Planning your visit to coincide with a picking season, such as pick-you-own strawberries, apples or pumpkins, adds to the experience. 

Amusement Parks

Amusement parks are great family excursions and usually offer something for every age-group. Do a little research, however, before setting out to make sure your destination is well suited to your child's age. For example - Centreville in Toronto is a great park for preschoolers, while a trip to Paramount Canada's Wonderland is still years away.

National/Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas

Parks and conservation areas have visitor centres, trails, structured activites and the chance to encounter wildlife ensuring the whole family will have a great time. Many offer activities all season ‘round - harvest festivals in fall, cross-country skiing in winter and maple syrup festivals in spring.

Museums

Our favourite museums usually have discovery centres with special hands-on areas geared to preschoolers. Others organize special activities on weekends and holidays or feature kid-oriented activities within galleries. Plan your own adventure by organizing a treasure hunt of artifacts that your child must find on the visit.

Zoos and Wildlife Centres

Children love animals and the chance to see them up-close helps strengthen their connections to the natural world. Zoos and wildlife centres provide wonderful opportunities for these encounters and most offer activities and demonstration as part of the experience.

By Rochelle Strauss