Fun (and Free) Drop in Playgroups for Little Kids in September

Finding drop in programs for kids to learn, explore, socialize and meet new people doesn’t have to break the bank. There are many free playgroups and drop in play times in Edmonton for parents and children – here are a few drop in Edmonton playgroups that you can take advantage of in September, for free.

Parent Link Strathcona County | Pictured above, the drop-in space for parents and young children is one of our favourite hidden gems around the city, for an inexpensive outing. There are a variety of programs, daily, around Strathcona County, for parents of children between zero and six.
When: Daily, various locations

Box Social Event Planning | Box Social event planning holds events at the malls around the city (and outside of the city, like St. Albert and Sherwood Park) once a month, at each location. Each mall date for the kids includes a craft, activity and special guests to entertain the kids. You can find the schedule on our event calendar.
When: Weekly, various locations

Little Explorers | Children are eager to explore new things. Find new ways to play using upcycled and unique materials that are not typically used in a play setting. Open-ended play allows children to express themselves freely and creatively. Come explore with us! Recommended age: 2-6 years (siblings welcome).
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

Me + My Buddy | Come explore your creativity by building projects! Get out the lego and build a castle, race some toy cars, or make a robot out of cardboard boxes. The possibilities are endless! There will also be a play area set up for Free Play. Come for a bit, or stay the whole time! Recommended age: 0-5 years (siblings welcome).
When: Saturday mornings

Daddy and Baby Time | Edmonton Public Library
Enjoy a special bonding time for babies and their male caregivers. In this relaxed environment, you’ll learn songs and rhymes that help support your baby’s development. Ages up to 18 months.
When: Tuesday evenings

Creative Sensory Play | KARA Resource Centre
This drop-in playgroup is for young children and their parents, caregivers. The focus is on supporting your child’s learning through play. Each week includes some sensory play activities that encourage children to use their five senses and movement to explore and discover. These “hands on” activities help children develop their math, science, and language concepts in ways that are fun and developmentally appropriate. This playgroup welcomes children with special needs. A snack is provided.
When: Thursday mornings

Stay and Play | Three mornings a week, parents can drop in to Stay and Play, at two locations in the city, to take part in fun activities for parents and children. There are snacks provided, and it gives parents a great way to meet new friends in the community.
When: Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Community Leagues | Check out your local community league, as there are often playgroups for children and parents to get together to meet the neighbours, take part in fun activities – like this one downtown, for urban kids, the Urban Kids Playgroup. Check your local community league group or community hall for free, weekly playgroups for kids.

Strathcona County Library | Fun drop in and registered programs (like the unparented storytime program) that introduces kids to learning and activities through storytime, and stay and play programs are some of the great options at the Strathcona County Library. Computers and the fun things to play (puppet theater, market shop) can occupy the kids while you’re there.

Where are some of your favourite drop-in programs for kids in Edmonton?