Summer Playgroup FAQs
What are the dates and times?
Our children's summer playgroup will run from June 23 to August 28th, Mondays to Thursdays from 9:00am-12:00pm.
What happens at playgroup?
Similar to StrongStart and other playgroups, there will be both free play and more structured activities available, as well as indoor and outdoor time. Luisa will be developing her own program and will let you know more details as we get started!
What ages is playgroup appropriate for?
Since a lot of summer programming is available for kids ages 6 and up, playgroup is generally aimed at children ages 0-5 years old. However, older siblings up to age 9 are welcome to come and play, too! We have a range of age-appropriate toys, books, arts and crafts supplies and games.
How much does playgroup cost?
If you are a member of My Inner Harbour, playgroup is included in your membership. A regular membership includes you and any children under 12 years old. If you are not a member, drop-in is $10. The $10 fee covers you and your child(ren) under 12 years old. You may choose to pay per visit or by purchasing a 10 visit pass.
Do I have to register in advance?
Registering in advance saves you a spot for playgroup that day, but you do not need to register in advance. You are welcome to come the day of and join in if there is space. If we are at maximum capacity you may be turned away.
If you are a member of My Inner Harbour, please choose the "Member" ticket option to register. If you are not a member, and are doing the daily drop-in rate, please choose the "Non-Member" ticket option (you may pay online via credit card, or complete your registration by paying through e-transfer or bringing cash). If you have purchased a 10 Visit Pass please use the "Member" ticket option and we will manually track your 10 visits.
What is the maximum capacity?
We have space for up to 12 parents and their children to attend each morning.
Is there parking?
Yes! We have about 5 parking spots at the back of our building off of Richards St which you are welcome to use. There is also free street parking around the neighbourhood.
How does the parent self-care time work?
When you arrive at playgroup you will be asked to sign in. There will be a second sign up sheet available for the self-care slots. The sign-up sheet is first come, first serve. There are four slots available each morning: 9:30-10:00, 10:00-10:30, 10:30-11:00, 11:00-11:30. During your 30 minutes Luisa will be directly supervising your child. If your child has urgent need of you, Luisa will either bring your child to you or a staff member will come and ask you to return to the children's area. Luisa will use her best judgment on the urgency of your child's need.
Do I have to come for the whole time?
No! Please feel free to come for however long suits you and your child(ren). As long as we have space you're welcome for all three hours or 15 minutes.
Can I pay for multiple sessions all at once?
You will have to register for each session, but yes you may pay for them all together. Instructions:
1) Go to the Summer Playgroup Week of choice in Events and follow through with registration for one date at a time.
2) On the Review & Confirm Page click “Invoice me”.
3) Click back into the Summer Playgroup Event with the date of your choosing and click register.
4) If the next session is in the same week: It will say ‘already registered’, but click the second, lower “New Registration” Button on the right side. If it's in another week, continue with 'register'.
4) Follow through with the registration again for the next session date.
5) Once registered for all dates desired, click the button at the bottom right of the screen that says “Balance Due: $____”. It will take you to a new page.
6) In the yellow top section, click “Pay Online”. Here, you can pay for all sessions at once.
Are snacks provided?
No. Please bring your own snacks. There is coffee and tea available for parents. Please note, we are a nut aware environment. Families are expected to use their best judgment and take precautions as needed. Please alert Luisa to severe allergies.
Is the outdoor space shaded?
Some of it is shaded, but much of the front lawn is in direct sunshine. We will have a 10x10 tent available to set up for some shade, however please bring hats and sunscreen.
What if my child is sick?
If your child has a fever or has had flu-like symptoms in the last 24 hours, please keep them home to prevent the spread of illness. If your child has a mild cold or cough, please use your best judgment about how sick they are before bringing them in.
Can we stay and continue to use the Children's Area after playgroup ends?
Yes, absolutely, however Luisa will no longer be available to play with or to supervise. If you are a member of My Inner Harbour you are free to continue using the space after playgroup ends. If you paid the drop-in rate for playgroup and would like to stay, you will need to purchase the regular daily drop-in pass for $20.