Toronto’s Riverside is a neighbourhood rooted in service and growth. Home to a strong network of community-focused organizations dedicated to shaping the next generation, kids have plenty of opportunities to discover and develop their interests and passions. Let’s take a look at the wide range of programs and services for children and youth in Riverside:
Photo credit: Riverside BIA
Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre
Address: 870 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 3G9
Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre in Riverside offers a range of recreational programs for all ages, from preschool children to older adults.
- Arts, Hobbies and Interests – There’s ballroom, open mic, video games, music, the list goes on!
- FitnessTO – Teens can choose from a variety of workout sessions such as HIIT, pilates, yoga and Zumba.
- Sports – You can go for badminton, basketball, pickleball, skateboarding, tennis, volleyball, just to name a few.
- Swim – For anyone who loves the water, you can participate in classes such as aquatic fitness, as well as leisure and lane swimming.
Photo credit: Child Development Institute
Child Development Institute (@cdi_toronto)
Address: 635 Queen St. East, 3rd Floor. Toronto, ON M4M
Backed by more than 100 years of service, the Child Development Institute is known for its effective, outcomes-based approach to children’s mental health, early learning and child care.
- Child & Youth Mental Health Services – These address a range of social, emotional, behavioural, psychological and/or psychiatric problems that are provided to at-risk children and youth.
- Early Years & Child Care Services – Through child care centres, children get the support they need to be actively immersed in an environment that promotes well-being, belonging and expression.
- Gender-Based Violence Services – These are counselling services, parenting support, shelter and more to support mothers with children who have witnessed and/or experienced interpersonal violence.
Photo credit: Riverside BIA
Toronto Public Library Queen/Saulter (@torontolibrary)
Address: 765 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H3
More than just a hub for books, the Toronto Public Library’s Queen/Saulter branch in Riverside features interactive programming for children and youth.
- Family Time – Preschool children can read stories, sing songs and do other fun activities during these sessions. No registration required.
- Robot World – Children interested in coding can learn the basics as they work with robots firsthand, making them move through a maze, pass an obstacle course and more.
- LEGO Club for Kids – Preschool and school-age children build and create their own LEGO masterpiece.
BLOG: A Riverside Cornerstone: Toronto Public Library Queen/Saulter Branch
Photo credit: Ralph Thornton Community Centre
Ralph Thornton Community Centre (@ralphthorntoncommunitycentre)
Address: 765 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H3
From personal development opportunities to fun camps, Ralph Thornton Community Centre offers a variety of affordable children’s programs led by knowledgeable staff. It’s a welcoming space for kids to explore and grow, all while learning about inclusivity and wellness.
- Afterschool Program – Activities include homework help, computer time, library visits, as well as hobby-based sessions like crafts and cooking.
- PA Day and March Break Camp – These events offer exciting experiences for children aged 6-12 during school breaks.
- Riverdale Adventure Centre (RAC) Camp – This fun summer day camp for children is offered to local residents with dedicated spaces in four specific streams: local low income families, Rivertowne & residents of Toronto Community Housing, LGBTQ+ families and a spot open to all!
- RTCC Youth Group – The program consists of regular workshops and activities that build leadership, problem-solving, communication and other skills.
- Leadership-In-Training Program – This leadership skills training project runs during the summer. It is done in partnership with Applegrove Community Complex and Eastview Community Centre.
BLOG: 45 Years Strong: Celebrating Riverside’s Ralph Thornton Community Centre
Photo credit: South Riverdale Child-Parent Centre
South Riverdale Child-Parent Centre (@southriverdalecpc)
Address: 765 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H3
South Riverdale Child-Parent Centre supports caregivers and young children through free, accessible programs that help promote healthy relationships and community involvement.
- Daily Drop-in – Children and their caregivers can spend time in a stimulating and safe play environment.
- Outings – Previous locations include Brooks Farm and Kortright Conservation Area.
- Workshops – The centre hosts a variety of sessions for different audiences, some for adults only and others for caregivers and children to enjoy together.
- Clothing Exchange – Bring in clothes that your child has outgrown, and take home some they can wear. You can bring them back too when you’re done so another child can benefit from them!
- Toy and Parenting Book Library – Try out as many developmentally-appropriate toys as you like for two weeks at a time.
- Developmental Screening & Informal Counselling – Talk to staff about your child’s development and activities that you can do at home as part of your routine.
We have officially come to the last of our blog series highlighting community services in Riverside, leading up to our annual community clean-up, Clean Queen East Together, on Friday, April 24th. Register HERE and let’s help maintain our neighbourhood’s cleanliness!
Don’t forget to follow @riverside_bia on Instagram and check out the Riverside Blog regularly to stay updated on what’s new and happening in the neighbourhood. In the meantime, read our previous blog posts on community services in Riverside linked below!
BLOG: Compassion in Action: How Fontbonne Ministries Supports Community
BLOG: Where Community Meets Care: The Programs Behind WoodGreen’s Lasting Impact