If you’re a Glebe parent, you already know the beauty of living in one of Ottawa’s most walkable, family-focused communities. But once summer hits, the challenge isn’t finding something to do—it’s finding something new, refreshing, and worthwhile for both kids and parents.
Here’s your curated list of how Glebe families are making the most of summer this year—with activities that go beyond just "keeping them busy."
You don’t need to leave the Glebe to spark curiosity and joy—just turn your regular stroll down Bank Street into a mini adventure.
Start by creating a simple “Glebe Passport” with your kids. Each week, choose one local spot to visit, try something new, and let them collect a sticker or draw what they saw. It turns ordinary errands into a memory-making tradition.
Here are a few stops to consider on your discovery trail:
🍦 Start Sweet:
Stella Luna Gelato – Let the kids choose a “flavour of the week” and rate it on their passport.
The Wild Oat Bakery – A cozy stop for muffins or mini loaves with seating perfect for people-watching.
🧩 Play & Learn:
Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s – Full of puzzles, games, and retro toys, this stop practically begs for exploration.
Octopus Books – Let your child pick one book they’d never choose on their own—then read it together at the park.
🛍️ A Little Retail Fun:
Kunstadt Sports – Great for browsing rollerblades, bikes, or simply dreaming up your next outdoor family challenge.
The Unrefined Olive – Believe it or not, kids love taste-testing! Let them sample oils and vinegars and pick their favourite.
🌳 Pair with a Park Break:
Central Park (East & West) – Shaded, stroller-friendly, and ideal for impromptu picnics.
Patterson Creek Park – Peaceful with ducks, benches, and perfect for a reflective journal moment with your child.
Brown’s Inlet Park – Great for turtle spotting and casual play before heading home.
This “Bank Street Summer Challenge” can be as structured or spontaneous as you like. The key is making the familiar feel special again—and giving your child a sense of exploration in their own neighbourhood.
Yes, everyone knows the Farmers’ Market—but have you tried pairing it with a lazy riverside brunch, a soccer match at TD Place, and a shaded read under the Aberdeen Pavilion? Make it your family’s “Sunday reset ritual” and teach your kids the art of slow living.
When school’s out, many Glebe parents want more than just screen time and day camps. That’s why Mathnasium of The Glebe offers a structured yet flexible Summer STEAM Program—designed to keep young minds engaged, inspired, and curious.
Held twice a week for just one hour, this 9-week series introduces kids to a new theme each week, blending hands-on learning with creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork.
🧠 Here's what they'll explore:
Math in Motion – using movement and patterns to bring numbers to life
Beginner Coding – building early logic skills through fun digital tools
Art Meets Math – discovering the beauty of geometry and symmetry
Simple Machines – exploring basic engineering concepts
Intermediate Coding – creating games with logic and flow
Financial Literacy – learning real-world money skills in a playful way
Design Thinking – inventing and pitching ideas with everyday materials
Logic & Puzzles – decoding problems and unlocking mysteries
STEAM Olympics – wrapping up with team-based challenges and review
Each week offers a fresh opportunity to build confidence while having fun—no pressure, no grades, just growth.
Included for all enrolled students (summer or year-round), this bonus hour fits perfectly between errands, outings, or a stroll down Bank Street.
👉 See the full schedule and register now
Located at Bank & Fifth, Mathnasium of The Glebe is your neighbourhood partner in making summer meaningful—one hour at a time.
Who says you need to register for a camp or travel far for active summer fun? Some of the most memorable summer days happen with a few friends, a patch of grass, and a little imagination.
This summer, consider organizing a Backyard (or Park) Olympics with fellow Glebe families. It’s low-cost, high-energy, and incredibly bonding—for both kids and parents. You can rotate locations weekly—Central Park, Brown’s Inlet, or even your own backyard—and let each family “host” a set of challenges.
🥇 What to Include:
Obstacle courses, water balloon tosses, sack races, math relays, and even silly challenges like “longest hula hoop spin” or “best team chant”
Make it extra fun with team names, handmade medals, and “spirit awards”
Keep things relaxed—it's about fun, not competition
Pick a street you rarely walk—say, Rosebery or Broadway—and go “house hunting” with your kids. Ask them which houses they like best and why. Not only is it a great way to unplug, but it also nurtures curiosity, conversation, and community awareness.
Toys and books don’t need to be new to feel exciting. In fact, a well-loved board game or a “new-to-me” storybook can feel like a treasure to a child—especially when it’s part of a shared neighbourhood experience.
This summer, team up with other Glebe families to start a weekly toy and book rotation. Take turns contributing puzzles, board games, LEGO sets, or novels. It’s a fun, sustainable way to keep things fresh—without spending a dime.
📚 Make It Simple:
Each family contributes 1–2 items per week
Set up a rotation schedule and label items clearly
Use Mathnasium of The Glebe (Bank & Fifth) as your central drop-off and pick-up point—whether you’re attending class or just passing by, it’s a safe and easy spot to exchange items
This kind of community sharing doesn’t just entertain kids—it builds trust, connection, and shared values among families.
Instead of staying cooped up post-dinner, take a walk through the Canal or grab a curbside cone from Little Jo Berry's or The Merry Dairy's truck when it visits nearby. Sometimes, the magic is just outside your doorstep—you just need to step out and catch it.
While others are packing for road trips or booking expensive camps, smart Glebe families are finding joy, growth, and community right here. Add in a bit of structured learning (hello, Mathnasium), sprinkle in some spontaneity, and you’ll be amazed how much summer magic lives just beyond your porch.
(613) 439-9823
