Image description: A group of children play in a public park, surrounded by bubbles blowing in the wind.

Note: This article was originally written in the first year of COVID-19 related lockdowns and public health measures. Programs and activities may change, be sure to contact venues to see what programs are currently running.

The COVID-19 pandemic has touched virtually every part of our lives – including play.

With online learning, social distancing, and event cancellations, many families are struggling to strike the right balance of sanity and safety. As public health measures shift over time, the need remains for young kids and families to access safe spaces and activities to learn, play, get active, and embrace creativity.

At Qi Creative, we are proud to help kids create resource toolbelts, overcome challenges, and create success. For this pandemic-sized challenge, we’re going to need a bigger toolbelt… Let’s fill it up!

Here are a few of our favorite inclusive recreation spots around Edmonton and the Province of Alberta. Every activity on this list has adopted special protocols to stay safe during COVID, and they welcome children with autism and disabilities.

Reach New Heights

Image description: A child is belayed on an indoor rock climbing wall.

Vertically Inclined Rock Gym offers structured rock-climbing courses for kids as young as five years old. Or, you can book climbing time online for the whole family.

During COVID, the climbing gym offers extra flexibility, so you can cancel with no penalty up to a week before the start date.

Other children-friendly rock climbing venues include Blocs in central Edmonton, and Clip n’ Climb on the southside.

Embrace the Snow

Image description: A man wearing cross country skis stands in the snow.

Get active and explore Alberta’s most beautiful trails with Nordiq. Cross-country skiing is a family-friendly sport, and you can sign up for kids programs starting at age 5. Nordiq’s skill development programs are limited to smaller groups during COVID, and instructors keep contact tracing logs.

The Edmonton Nordic Ski Club is one of Edmonton’s largest nordic ski clubs with over 650 members, with kid and family programs to learn cross country skiing. The Edmonton Nordic Ski Club regularly grooms and maintains the trail system in Goldbar and Goldstick park. By e-mail request, the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club may have special sledges available for use.

Downhill skiing more your thing? The Qi Adventure Club offers Qi Learn to Ski, a learn to ski program for children and youth of all ages.

Sign up for Art or Sports

Image description: Two children practice martial arts in an outdoor setting.

Centre for Autism Services Alberta is open by appointment and many programs are still open. Initially, some community programs were cancelled back in 2020, but qualifying families can now choose between virtual resources and in-person visits. Click here for updated COVID protocols and information.

Young Master Club, Qi Creative’s adaptive Taekwondo program, is resuming classes for the 2022-2023 season. Be sure to sign up as a member of the Qi Adventure Club first before registering in any of our programs.

Go Bowling

Image description: A child bowls a bowling ball by using a bowling ramp.

Children’s Autism Services of Edmonton hosts adaptive bowling lessons for children with autism in partnership with K-J Bowling. During COVID, the EPIC Bowling program is more limited with smaller cohorts and social distancing guidelines, but you can still hit the lanes. Click here to register for events.

Get with the Program

Image description: A group of teenagers hanging out together outside.

The Occasio program, run by Autism Edmonton, is a spectrum-inclusive group for children with autism ages 10+. Click here to create an account and apply for the program to get started. During COVID, you can still register for gym days, gaming events, crafting, movies, museum trips, and more – all with social distancing.

Stay Social Online

Image Description: A girl types on a laptop.

Adaptabilities now offers online programs for children and teens with special needs. The centre will deliver program kits to your home with weekly materials for hands-on learning and creativity. Plus, kids will connect virtually to AM or PM sessions and social nights.

Ride a Bike

YouCanRide2 offers Learn to Ride and Borrow a Bike programs, but you can still take advantage of bike repairs and modification services. Click here to read the newest pandemic protocols and set up an appointment.

Of course, the COVID-19 crisis is evolving day by day, so we encourage you to check in with the company or center for updated protocols and information before you visit. As always, do what feels right for your family. Everyone deserves safe recreation options with affordable, inclusive programs.

WOOSH!