March Break Fun!

By: Toronto4Kids

March Break! Finally, it's that long anticipated break you've been waiting for and just what you need to chase the winter blues away! After one of the worst and coldest winters on record, March Break 2008 restores our confidence that spring is not too far off! But the arrival of March Break also turns up that inevitable question in most parents' minds: "What do I do with the kids?"

For the few lucky ones who are getting away to a sunny spot, you'll want to read up on Savvy Mom's Tips for Flying with Kids.

For the rest of us who are sticking around, well, fear not! You'll find a myriad of things happening in the GTA to keep kids content and busy during the break.

Staying in the city…

The City is thriving and booming with activities specifically geared towards kids and their families. Check out our March Break Calendar of Events for special exhibits, attractions, indoor carnivals, movies, theatre, concerts, workshops and more! No boredom here - we guarantee it!

Getting away for a few days…

For those contemplating a day trip or a short getaway to break up the monotony of the week, you'll want to consider some Fun Car Games to keep kids (and you) from losing it in during those long drives. Also, check out some valuable survival tips from Parenting Network in Car Trips with Kids? No Sweat!

Last chance to hit the slopes…

March Break is the perfect time to go skiing or snowboarding with friends at your local mountain before the season ends! For more info visit: www.skiontario.on.ca, your guide to winter fun and excitement at Ontario's best ski resorts. Or, go skating at a Fun Place to Skate.

Visit a Sugar Shack or a Maple Syrup Festival...

It's Maple Syrup Season and Ontario provides many opportunities to visit a Maple Syrup Festival or a Sugar Shack - with oodles of fun activities for kids. See how Maple Syrup is made, take in a wagon ride, enjoy maple treats, as well as pancake breakfasts! Visit the Toronto4Kids Maple Syrup Festivals Calendar of Events for an extensive listing of Maple Syrup Festivals taking place in Central Ontario and surrounding areas.

March Break on a Budget?

Did you know that the GTA offers many outings for Kids that are Free (or very Cheap!). From museums, to art galleries, exhibits, parks, gardens and more! You're bound to find something fun and educational! Click here for a listing of Free and Cheap Outings.

If you can't take time off from work…

You can still make March Break a special time. Get kids connected with relatives and friends who can take over during March Break to keep your troupes entertained. Better yet, register your child in a March Break Camp. There are many programs to suit many tastes with age appropriate activities. From arts, crafts & ceramics, to music, dance, adventures & sports, indoor amusement, Princess and Tea Parties, nature and outdoor activities and more - your kids will discover fun ways to learn! Then, plan a special outings or getaway for the family on the weekend, so your kids feel like they got away!

Fun Around the House…

• Get outdoors . Have an outside work day to get the yard in shape and help kick start your garden (if the snow is gone!)
• Have the kids do a Spring Craft
• Easter is just around the corner! Paint some eggs, decorate the house and do some Easter Crafts. Visit our Easter Page for lots of ideas.
• Have a theme for each day of the week and declare a special activity for each day: Hat day, Beach Day, Upside-down day, Crazy Hair day, etc.
• Have sleepovers with special friends you don't see often during school days. Get the popcorn, start the pillow fights and rent some great flicks. No matter what age you are, sleepovers are always a big hit!
• Do something you've always wanted to - that you don't usually have time to do during school.

And lastly, here are some last tips to help you survive the break:

• Keep your kids on a schedule! Sticking to your family routine can set the tone for the entire day! This keeps kids on track for when school starts again.
• Plan for snowy/rainy days or inclement weather. Have games ready or plan activities for inside the house should the weather not cooperate.

You'll see... it's not so bad having the little ones home for a week!