Just when you thought you had all your childcare planned for the month, a PA day (or PD day, depending on your preference!) pops up and leaves you scrambling. Be prepared this year, with your dates in hand, and reserve spots in some of the best PA day camps in the city. Whether your kids are into sports, arts, or special one-off experiences, you’ll find a perfect day camp for them in the capital.
Monkey Around
Monkey Around is an indoor soft play centre and roller rink which offers PA day camp for children in both the English and French school boards throughout the year. There are plenty of opportunities for kids to work off some steam on the jumping pillow and by climbing on all the obstacles, but there will also be arts and crafts activities planned throughout the day.
Location: 1650 Queensdale Avenue
Age: 4-10 years old
Cost: $45 + HST
Forest and Nature School
The Forest and Nature school provides an opportunity for students to get closer to the natural world and develop a love and affinity with the land. During the year PD day camps are offered for all Ottawa Carlton District School Board PA Days. Campers will spend most of the day outdoors developing skills of balance, confidence, and coordination as they explore the nature trails and natural playground.
Location: 411 Corkstown Road, Ottawa
Age: 4-10 years old
Cost: $50 + HST
The University of Ottawa
The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Ottawa provides a place for children to develop engineering skills and master tools such as a 3D printer, laser cutting, and computer programming. Kids can take camp classes in English or French and through hands-on activities, the staff will help to make technology fun for your little scientist.
Location: 161 Louis-Pasteur, Ottawa
Age: Grade 2-6
Cost: $60 + HST
Old Ottawa South
The Old Ottawa South Community Association organizes OA day camps throughout the year to support both the French, English, and Catholic school systems. The camp program includes field trips to areas of local interest including museums, Cosmic Adventures and Glow in the Dark Mini Putt. There will also be plenty of opportunities to play sports, complete art projects and make new friends.
Location: 260 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa, Ottawa
Age: Grade JK-6
Cost: Call for details.
Kid’s Kingdom
This play centre is a multi-level play structure designed to test and challenge kids’ balance, coordination, and gross motor skills. During their PD day camps, kids will also have a chance to get outdoors and take part in a variety of group activities. Lunch and two snacks are included in the cost of admission at either of the two locations in Kanata or Orleans.
Location: 66 Hearst Way, Kanata
Age: Grade JK-6
Cost: $50 per day.
Next Generation Hockey Camp
Future NHL players will feel like all their dreams have come true at this day camp for aspiring hockey stars. Kids will take their skating skills to the next level at this day camp and learn how to develop skills of explosive skating, on-ice confidence, and grow as a team player under expert tuition.
Location: 145 Iber Road, Stittsville
Age: 6 years and up
Cost: $99 per day.
My Gym
Good music, teacher-led physical activity, and gymnastics combine to offer an active day of fun. There are plenty of chances to keep fit in individual activities like using the rock climbing wall and exploring the play centre as well as more formal exercise classes akin to an adult aerobics session. Parents can choose to send their children to half or full days depending on their needs.
Location: 220 Kennevale Drive, Nepean
Age: 3-10 years old
Cost: $40 for members and $45 for non-members
Maker Kids
At this PA day sampler, kids will learn what the Maker Kids programs are all about. STEM workshops equip kids with a range of tech knowledge including coding, design, and robotics as well as boosting self-confidence, and social skills.
Location: 362 Mariposa Ave, Rockcliffe Park
Age: Grades 1-8
Cost: $113
Carlton Athletics Sports Camp
Sports-loving kids will have a ball here whether they choose basketball, hockey, baseball, or dodgeball as well as having access to the heated swimming pool. Little kids will need to bring a packed lunch, but those aged 6–12 will be treated to a cafeteria lunch provided by the Fresh Food Company.
Location: 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa
Age: 4-12 years old
Cost: $52.50
Ottawa Humane Society
Is your child crazy about animals? At the OHS PA day camp, they will learn how the Humane Society helps to care for vulnerable animals with a behind-the-scenes tour and a visit from a veterinarian. They will also be able to try out their own life-saving skills on an animal plushy in the make-believe surgery. A special visit will be made by a furry friend as well as lots of opportunities to play and complete fun animal-themed crafts.
Location: 245 West Hunt Club Rd.Ottawa
Age: 6-10 years old
Cost: $75
