These playgroups and early years programs around Greater Victoria offer toys, songs, circle time, crafts, snacks, outdoor play, and a chance for caregivers to connect. Most are free or by donation, making them a sweet option for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups.
Schedules can shift over the summer, so it’s always a good idea to double-check with the organizer before heading out.
Tiny Tykes Summer Playgroup
A sweet outdoor summer playgroup with toys, circle time, and a friendly group setting for little ones and their caregivers. This program supports early socialization and helps children get comfortable with group play before daycare or preschool.
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30–11:30am
Location: Oaklands Park
Dates: July 8–31 and August 19–28
Ages: 5 and under
Cost: Free, with a $3 suggested donation per family
Good to know: Parent/caregiver participation required. Maximum two children per adult, with some exceptions. Bring water and sunscreen.
James Bay Community Project Playgroups
James Bay Community Project offers parent-and-child programming for families with little ones, including children’s playgroups and baby programs. Families can expect a welcoming neighbourhood space for free play, connection, and early years support.
When: Monday through Friday
Location: James Bay Community Project, 547 Michigan Street
Ages: Birth to 5, depending on program
Cost: Free or by donation, depending on program
Good to know: Families may need to register in advance for some programs. Check the current James Bay Community Project schedule before attending.
Quadra Village Kindergym
Playgroups are paused for the summer, but there's still kindergym with snacks!
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am–12pm
Location: Quadra Village Community Centre
Ages: 6 months–5 years
Cost: Free
Good to know: It's in the yellow building with the green roof. Park in the school lot and the gym door will be open.
Burnside Gorge Family Centre Programs
Burnside Gorge offers several free early years programs for parents and children ages 0–5. Families can join for movement, crafts, sensory play, outdoor play when weather permits, snacks, and connection with other caregivers.
Mighty Movers: Mondays, 9:30am–12pm
Crafty Critters: Tuesdays, 9:30am–12pm
Ittsy Bitty’s Playtime: Wednesdays, 9:30am–12pm
Location: Burnside Gorge Community Centre
Ages: 0–5
Cost: Free
Good to know: Parent participation required. Programs do not run on statutory holidays.
Saanich Neighbourhood Place Playgroups
Saanich Neighbourhood Place offers several early years drop-in programs for families with young children, including playgroups, baby groups, kindergym, and a Saturday dad’s group. These programs are a great option for families looking for free play, art activities, stories, dress-up, parent connection, and support from family workers.
Locations include:
SNP Pearkes, 3100 Tillicum Road
Broad View United, 3703 St. Aidan’s Street
Ages: Babies to 5 years, depending on program
Cost: Free
Good to know: Registration is usually required once per calendar season for drop-in programs. Check the current SNP summer calendar before attending.
West Shore Parent & Tot Playgroup
A welcoming West Shore Early Years playgroup where children and caregivers can enjoy art, stories, activities, circle time, and free play in a friendly play space.
When: Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:30–11am
Location: 345 Wale Road
Ages: 0–6
Cost: Free
Good to know: Registration required. Registration opens 6 days before the desired date and closes 8:30am the morning-of. Closed on stat holidays and last two weeks of "summer break" at the end of August/beginning of September.
West Shore Tummy Time Baby Group
A supportive group for parents and caregivers with babies under 12 months. Sessions include parent connection, guided topics, guest speakers, and support from early years staff.
When: Thursdays, 9:30–11am
Location: 345 Wale Road
Ages: 0–12 months
Cost: Free
Good to know: Registration required. Registration opens 6 days before the desired date and closes 8:30am the morning-of. Closed on stat holidays and last two weeks of "summer break" at the end of August/beginning of September.
Sooke Parent and Child Playgroups
Sooke Family Resource Society offers early years playgroups for families with young children. These groups include art, stories, activities, circle time, and opportunities to meet other families in the community.
Parent and Child Playgroup: Mondays, 9:30–11am
Parent and Child Playgroup: Wednesdays, 9:30–11am
Location: Sooke Child, Youth & Family Centre, 6672 Wadams Way
Ages: 0–6
Cost: Free
Good to know: Registration not required.
Sooke Early Years Neurodiverse Playgroup
This early years group supports neurodiverse children and their families through play, connection, belonging, and access to information and resources.
When: Wednesdays, 12:45–2:15pm
Location: Sooke Child, Youth & Family Centre, 6672 Wadams Way
Ages: 0–6
Cost: Free
Good to know: Registration required. Contact Sooke Family Resource Society for details.
Looking for more?
Many kindergyms, StrongStart programs, and parent-and-tot drop-ins pause or change schedules during the summer.
